RP: "Adventures in Gunrunning" - Act 12

POSTED BY: FrauDirektor
UPDATED: Tuesday, March 23, 2004 21:45
VIEWED: 19306
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FRAUDIREKTOR

Monday, March 15, 2004 2:59 AM (P)

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

GREEN ROOM (REAL-TIME):
Chat and storyline work
http://www.fireflyfans.net/fireflychat.asp

CURRENT GREEN ROOM (OOC) THREAD:
More in-depth conversations about character
development/storylines
http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=17&t=4249

STARRING:
Captain Malcolm 'Mal' Reynolds - Geezer (fireflygeezer@cox.net)
Zoë Warren - Astriana (htempe@hotmail.com, MSN, AIM: MissAstriana, Yahoo!: MissAstriana, ICQ: 9592266)
Wash Warren - RavenWhyteWing (ravenwhytewing@yahoo.com)
Jayne Cobb - SerenitysSon (killianf@bellsouth.net)
Kaywinnit Lee 'Kaylee' Frye - BoomerGoodHeart (boomergoodheart@hotmail.com, MSN, AIM)
Simon Tam - CapnRahn (CapnRahn@aol.com, MSN, AIM)
River Tam - TeelaBrown (AIM: Teela Sera)
Inara Serra - Ciara (elenahope@yahoo.com; AIM)
Shepherd Book - ManiacNumberOne (magicbishop@comcast.net)

GUEST STARRING:
Adelai Niska - temporarily played by CapnRahn
Brink 'Slight' Helsing - RavenWhyteWing (ravenwhytewing@yahoo.com)
Damon - Squee (dm_squee@earthlink.net; AIM: Squee755)Jubal Early - Succatash
Mercedes 'Merz' Troy - Mercedes Troy
Roosevelt 'Rosie' Thorne - Geezer (fireflygeezer@cox.net)
Rowan - Channain (channain@yahoo.com; AIM)

DIRECTORIAL STAFF:
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)
Minion - DirektorsSmeagol (CapnRahn@aol.com, MSN, AIM)

PRODUCER:
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

RESOURCES
Mechanics of RPing Workshop:
http://fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=17&t=3640

Chinese for the RP Player:
http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=17&t=3658

Last but not least, the Gunrunners 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
HakenGunrunners

Frau Direktor

Haff fun stormink zee castle...

FRAUDIREKTOR

Monday, March 15, 2004 3:20 AM (P)

Und here iz vhere ve are:
{/accent mode}

BRIDGE - Wash, Kaylee, Book, Thorne, Rowan, Damon, Merz

CARGO BAY or CATWALKS - Mal, Zoe, Jayne, Inara

INFIRMARY - River, Simon (??? - assuming he'd go there after his scene with Kaylee)

DINING ROOM - Slight (??? - talked about leaving, but we haven't heard from Raven in a bit, don't know if he's got off the ship yet.)

Frau Direktor

Haff fun stormink zee castle...

SQUEE

Monday, March 15, 2004 6:51 AM (P)

OOC: New thread yey! and ve saw dat it vas goet.
Boomer- sorry, it's Damon's turn to be blowing up at someone. plus Kaylee's been raggin on him for hours now and he's getting a bit frustrated with her.

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - BRIDGE

Damon starts to wonder where he would be most useful and then hears a distant cannon shot, followed by an impact not far from the ship.

"Hey, Wash, you got word from your captain yet?"

He looks up as Kaylee enters the bridge and walks right past him. She looks around, inspecting Damon's, Merz's, and Rowan's work.

"Ah, this mus' be where that Damon fella loaded the cannon," she mutters resentfully.

Apparently, she hadn't seen him standing there.

"Well, I could take it back off if you want me to," he says, matching her tone. But apparently she can't hear him either. She seems to be listening for something. He jumps when she suddenly screams and grabs some tools from a nearby locker. She dashes over to the crawlspace and begins removing the deckplating.

Damon walks up behind her wondering what the hell she was doing. "I don't think we did that bad of a job."

"The Captain oughta know better 'en ta let some stranger mess around with Serenity," she says to herself. "Shoulda done it m'self in the first gorram place."

Damon glares at Kaylee as she disappears into the crawlspace muttering to herself again.

"Tai-kong suo-yo duh shing-chiou sai-jin wuh duh pee-goo, you're still pissed at me. You know, from what I've seen in the engine room, your a damn fine mechanic but no matter how brilliant you are, it would still have taken you at least an hour to assemble that thing by yourself. Now I don't know what you've been doing for the last hour but I've been making sure that we don't get our asses busted by those patrol boats."

He turns around and notices Book for the first time standing in the corner watching him. His glare withers as he looks at him for a moment. So far he and Inara were the only two crew members who hasn't yelled at him or threatened to kill him or criticised his best efforts to help out.

Damon opens his mouth to say something but is interrupted when the ship gets jolted by two more shots, knocking him off balance. He hits injured side against the computer consol with a grunt and inhales sharply as pain rips through his body. Tzao gao, that was not good, he thinks to himself. He slumps to the floor with his back to the consol, holding his side, and closes his eyes.

"Can someone please shoot those hwoon dahns out of the sky?" he manages through gritted teeth.

Tai-kong suo-yo duh shing-chiou sai-jin wuh duh pee-goo = All the planets in space flushed into my butt
tzao gao = shit/damn it
hwoon dahns = bastards

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

GEEZER

Monday, March 15, 2004 12:18 PM (P)

Thorne's/Mal's Move:

Location: Bridge

DAMON asks "Can someone please shoot those hwoon dahns out of the sky?"

THORNE:"Just a sec, sonny. Give my babies time to get a lock an'..."

[THORNE is interrupted by the Nimbus launcher going into action. It disappears in a billowing cloud of hot gas and dust as the missles leap from their launch rails. The blue sky is corkscrewed with smoke trails as the fighters evade and the missles follow. ]

THORNE:"That'll keep 'em off for a while, anyway. Just be dumb luck, or dumb pilot, if any of 'em actually get shot down, but hope springs eternal."

[MAL arrives at the bridge as the missles chase the Alliance ships away. He looks over WASH's shoulder at the scanner, and sees his chance to launch.]

MAL:"Okay, WASH, prove you're a nan ren zhong de nan ren and show us some fancy flyin'. MERZ, you ready to kick some Alliance Pigu?

[Scanning the bridge, he notices KAYLEE in a corner, looking strangely at THORNE.]

MAL:"Kaywinnit Frye, get your bottom down to the engine room where I told you to be. You're no good to us up here."

EOM

Nan ren zhong de nan ren = A man among men.
Pigu = Butt.

"Keep the Shiny side up"

MERCEDESTROY

Monday, March 15, 2004 12:24 PM (P)

LOCATION - BRIDGE

MERZ enters the bridge, again, and this time stops to address the pilot. "Mr. Wash, the Captain has requested that I man the cannon."

She then sits at the other console and starts the cannon, working out the stiff, new controls and running a very, short sim run to warm both herself and the gun up. And then, back to battle mode, bringing up the crosshairs and watching for the incoming targets.

in her minds ear she is hearing:
'Rabbit Run. You have a suspicious target on the ground. Make your first pass fast and noisy - scare them. A good rabbit will run - then you have a viable 'escaping' target.

If they don't run, so much the better - a sitting target is easier to hit.

Second pass, do it again a little closer but use a different flight path, never retrace your steps. This sets you up for the chase if they bunny. If they don't, third pass is the kill pass for a ground target.'

lets hope they are by the book

Another person has entered the bridge area. MERZ is mostly absorbed in the cannon and misses her actions, but cannot miss the ramp up in the cannons power load. She glances up and mutters "Thanks," to the stranger, but most of her attention is on three incoming targets. They are in a V formation and coming fast.

She takes a deep breath wait for it and three things happen simultaneously. The incoming fighters drop their first missle load. THORNEs Surface-to-Air missles fire. MERZ triggers off the first cannon shot.

Serenity rocks. DAMON smacks a console and goes down in obvious pain.

Quote:
Can someone please shoot shoot those hwoon dahns out of the sky?"

"I'm trying, *petit frère" MERZ whispers, and triggers the cannon again.

EOM

hwoon dahns = bastards
*petit frère = little brother (French)

OOC
I have decided that while it is cool that I get to shoot the cannon at our enemies, the person doing the shooting should NOT be the person determining the effectiveness of the shots. Otherwise, why I might not ever miss and how likely would that be. I have tossed the dice. So I stop this here and wait with baited breath along with the rest of you to see the results. OOH, I can hardly wait. DEBS

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

ASTRIANA

Monday, March 15, 2004 3:20 PM (P)

ZOE'S MOVE:
LOCATION - CARGO BAY to BRIDGE

MAL and ZOE arrive at the bridge as three things occur close enough to seem simultaneous. The incoming fighters drop their first missle load, THORNE's Surface-to-Air missles fire, and MERZ triggers off the first cannon shot. MAL looks over WASH's shoulder at the scanner, while ZOE crosses to her usual spot behind WASH's right side, and puts a hand on his shoulder.

As Serenity rocks, Damon falls to the floor, obviously hurt. ZOE sees the blood drain from his face, and turns to BOOK, standing at the back of the bridge.

ZOE: "Shepherd, why don't you take DAMON down to the infirmary, let's give our folks room to work? 'Sides, the kid might've reopened his wounds with all that runnin' about."

ZOE turns her attention back to the scanners, and sees their opening to launch, as MAL speaks.

MAL:"Okay, WASH, prove you're a nan ren zhong de nan ren* and show us some fancy flyin'. MERZ, you ready to kick some Alliance Pigu*? Kaywinnit Frye, get your bottom down to the engine room where I told you to be. You're no good to us up here."

ZOE looks up and gives KAYLEE an understanding look, as WASH flips his three switches and various other dials, lifting Serenity from the ground easily. ZOE checks the scanners again, and sees the fighters. One has sustained some damage, but both look to be on another attack run.

ZOE: "Ai ya, wo mun wan leh!*"

EOM

Nan ren zhong de nan ren = A man among men.
Pigu = Butt.
Ai ya, wo mun wan leh = We're in big trouble.

~A~

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

GEEZER

Monday, March 15, 2004 4:05 PM (P)

Thorne's/Mal's Move

Location: Bridge

ZOE: "Ai ya, wo mun wan leh!"

[Suddenly, THORNE’s voice cuts cleanly through the din of takeoff. It's a tone no one on board has heard him use before, a sure and steady voice of command that must be obeyed.]

THORNE: “Pilot! On my command, give us max lift. Align the bow with that pair of ships. The other will be trying to get behind us. Gunner! Fire two quick bursts at the pair on the bow as soon as they’re in range...shake them up, then look dead astern. You should find the third about 30 degrees above horizon setting up his pass. You have two seconds to burn him, wing root or cockpit's best, then get back on the pair. Execute!”

[The ship lifts and pivots left as MERZ watches the range close. MAL Is torn between admiration of THORNE's skillful tactics and anger that he presumes to give orders on MAL's bridge, and that they're being obeyed. Anger is winning out.]

MAL:"Who do you think...

[MAL falls silent as the laser starts to hum. A burst of smoke appears from the left ship in the flight, as a glancing beam vaporizes half the ablative coating from the nose. The craft break left and right, jinxing to avoid followup shots, but the turret is already spinning aft.]

MAL: "Good shot!"

THORNE: "Well done, Gunner! Now cook that bastard on our tail."

EOM

"Keep the Shiny side up"

BOOMERGOODHEART

Monday, March 15, 2004 4:09 PM (P)

Kaylee's Move
Location: Bridge to Engine Room

Kaylee snaps her eyes to the Captain as he yells at her to get down to the Engine Room. Narrowing her eyes at him, she sticks out her tongue and leaves the bridge.

"Oh, we'll have a talk later 'bout how he's been actin' towards me taday...yes we will..." she thinks. "An' did...what was his name...Thorne, call me Kaylee-girl? Ain't heard that in a long time."

End Move

BoomerGoodheart
"I love my Captain."

CHANNAIN

Monday, March 15, 2004 4:58 PM (P)

Rowan's Move:
LOCATION - BRIDGE

Once he gets to it, Damon's a capable enough tech. One quick adjustment under the console under the jury-rigged firing controls and the situation seems in hand. Maybe he resolved it a little too quickly, but she decides to save that little thought process for later.

No sooner has she gone off to throw herself at Reynolds' mercy, Merz is back and turns to the pilot like a military officer checking in.
------------------------------
MERZ: "Mr. Wash, the Captain has requested that I man the cannon."
------------------------------

Pilot's name is Wash, is it? Interesting. And just how did Merz find herself in Reynolds' good graces in less than five minutes? That doesn't seem likely, more along the lines of too much to do and not enough time to do it, so the captain's making use of everyone and sorting out the details later. That would be either a sign of true leadership or foolhardiness.

Moving out of the second seat, Rowan moves back to the rear of the bridge where Book has been quietly observing. Holding the dedicated source pad like a clipboard in one arm, she continues to monitor the situation, allowing Book to peer over her shoulder. Merz begins working the firing console, and Serenity speaks.

SERENITY (into Rowan's earpiece): Unable to process request. Please re-enter.

Rowan feels her blood go cold as she realizes the firing controls aren't wired the way they're supposed to be. Damon may know the innards of the guns, but judging by the modified specs on the screen in front of her, Rowan can plainly see Serenity has far surpassed her original design. Looking out the view port, Rowan sees the Alliance ships drawing nearer and speaks softly to Book.

ROWAN: "Shephard? Any insight on what being blown to hell might feel like?"

In that same instance, Kaylee comes in. Reminiscent of a military inspector, she looks around, taking stock of the work done on HER ship. Hearing her mutter disdainfully about Damon and the cannon, Rowan can tell by her tone that she's pissed at the young interloper. Sensing Damon tensing up, Rowan can tell he also heard every word and can't help being annoyed at Kaylee's careless dismissal of his work. He tries to offer to remove the firing controls, but Kaylee ignores him. Her head is tipped slightly to one side and her eyes are unfocused, as if she's listening for something.

SERENITY (into earpiece): Warning. Power build up in secondary conduit. Self-destruct imminent in ten seconds.

Damon about hits the ceiling at Kaylee's sharp squeal, and jumps back, allowing Kaylee room to bound to a nearby locker and grab some tools. Then she drops down to remove deck plating from the crawlspace that Merz had just finished closing up.

EOM

OOC: To be continued - it was getting too big!

CHANNAIN

Monday, March 15, 2004 5:11 PM (P)

Rowan's Move:
LOCATION - BRIDGE

Ignoring Damon's indignant spouting off to Kaylee, Rowan automatically adjusts her feet to compensate for the sudden ominous ground tremor as the Alliance begins warming fire well away from the ship. Rowan silently blesses Kaylee's intervention as she makes quick work of the problem and the gun begins powering up as if it had been factory-installed. Looking pleased with herself and her ship, Kaylee replaces the deck plating and looks up at Merz and Wash, as if everything is A-okay.
------------------------------
KAYLEE: "What?"
------------------------------
SERENITY (into earpiece): Power build up averted. All systems are ready.

Rowan smiles, and glances over her shoulder to trade looks with Book who is just as amused by Kaylee's ease with just having performed a minor miracle. Alliance fire moves closer, shaking Serenity harder and Rowan is nearly tossed off balance. With quick reflexes, Book keeps her from falling, taking her arm and putting a hand at her waist to steady her. Damon, of course, isn't quite so lucky, and gets himself tossed down to the deck, ramming into the console on the way down. Hearing his hiss of pain and seeing the hand he's holding at his side, Rowan realizes the young man is in worse shape than he's let on.

DAMON (with difficulty): "Can someone please shoot those hwoon dahns out of the sky?"

Just like that, everything is happening at once. Just as Rowan is just considering finding a quiet place to hunker down for a bit, the fella from the Hera Cary walks onto the bridge and assists Merz in returning fire. Shortly thereafter, Mal and Zoe arrive. While Mal's attention is focused on the battle and escape, Zoe takes the initiative to deal with the personnel.
------------------------------
ZOE: "Shepherd, why don't you take DAMON down to the infirmary, let's give our folks room to work? 'Sides, the kid might've reopened his wounds with all that runnin' about."
------------------------------
Rowan moves the same time as Book. He goes to Damon, while she retrieves the attache and tucks the source pad away. Slinging the attache's strap over her body diagonally so she can cary the heft of it on her back, she returns to help Book with Damon. Each taking an arm, they lift him up and maneuver him out just as Serenity starts to move.

ROWAN: "Well, this should be fun. Trying to get a fella down to the infirmary during a daring escape. You'll be able to wow your grandkids with this one, xiâo dì dì."

EOM

OOC: WHEW! That'll learn me to be offline for a couple days. Rowan will be calling Damon "little brother" pretty much throughout the RP - levels of affection will vary.

We have art so as not to die of truth ~ Neitzsche
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

RAVENWHYTEWING

Monday, March 15, 2004 5:14 PM (P)

OOC-sorry I haven't posted in a while, power outage (may PNM join Fox in it's hellish destiation)
Wash's move:
Wash pilots with care and precision, but at the same time maniacal, cheering with the hit. "Wooyah! That was fun!"

Slights move:
Slight grabs his gothus, the weapon of the Blue Sun Powers. He'd thought it might come in handy.
Abruptly, the ship grinds into movement, and Slight can see the Alliance ship, outlined in white along the hull, like a shadow. Slight makes a snapping decision-it is time to go.
He heads to the airlock, and withouut hesitating, he opens the door, leaping down the hundred or so yards to the ground. As he falls, he allows the trenchcoat to fall of, revealing a metallic armor. The curve along the back opens, unfolding into a clear, unreflective parachute that is virtually invisble. Nonetheless, the impact is jarring. Even as he lands, Slight cuts from the parachute and hits the ground running, flying towards the obs craft. He activates the chameleon armor, and it shifts, blending in with the ground, so that he virtually disappears. you could spot him from ten yards, but from the sky is impossible.
Slight is in his element. His eyes have shifted back to the pure, bloody red that is needed. His face is hardened into a primal expression of bloodlust. He might kill anyone, if they interfere with his goal. Above him, he hears an explosion, and sees a ship land right in front of him. Well, not land-crash. As he leaps over the nose, and runs directly across the ship, an Alliance fed climbs out of the ship, airshock rifle in front. Slight doesn't even break pace-a claw extends from the arm of his armor, and he cuts laterally.
he hits the ground, continuing along, as the feds skull crashs into the dirt.
Slight continues on, not even blinking.

I'm talking about geese.

MANIACNUMBERONE

Monday, March 15, 2004 6:10 PM (P)

Books Move

Location: Bridge to Galley

Book tries not to think about what Hell is like as he goes to Damon. He feels he might be a little too bitter in his description at the moment, so he says nothing. Instead, Book supports Damon on one side while Rowan supports his other and they lead him lumberingly down the hallway. Stopping at the galley, Book pauses long enough to lower Damon into a chair.

"If he has reopened his wounds, we'd better check them before we move him any further. We could be doing damage right now."

Book motions for Damon to lift up his shirt to reveal the wound. Sure enough it has started to leak blood again.

"Rowan, would you mind getting a med bag from the infirmary?

Book watches the grimace on Damon's face as Book examines the wound for the third time. Damon continues to mutter under his breath about the quality of his work and Book goes to a refrigerated cubby hole, returning with a beer.

"Lucky that isn't a stomach wound, or there'd be none of this." Book hands him the beer.

EM

SQUEE

Monday, March 15, 2004 7:08 PM (P)

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - BRIDGE

Damon's eyes snap open as he feels a pair of hands on each arm. He jerks back, bumping into the computer consol and balls his hands into fists defensively. He looks up to see Book and Rowan trying to help him to his feet.

"Tzao gao..." he mutters letting his muscles relax again. "You two damn near gave me a heart attack."

He looks around as they lift him up and maneuver him toward the door. Serenity’s bridge seems to have gotten crowded since he dozed off. How long was he out? He starts to pull away from Book and Rowan but the room suddenly sways, throwing his regained balance back off. Book and Rowan catch him again before he can hit anything else. Either the ship was taking off or he was in worse condition than he would like to admit. Probably both.

Rowan: "Well, this should be fun. Trying to get a fella down to the infirmary during a daring escape. You'll be able to wow your grandkids this one, xiâo dì dì."

Damon gives a halfhearted grunt of a laugh. “Grandkids, right. And cows can fly.”

Did she just call me xiâo dì dì?

They arrive in the galley and Book stops to lower him into a chair. “If he has reopened his wounds, we'd better check them before we move him any further. We could be doing damage right now."

Book motions for Damon to lift up his shirt to reveal the wound. Sure enough it has started to leak blood again. "Rowan, would you mind getting a med bag from the infirmary?

Damon grimaces as Book examines the wound for the third time. “Maybe I shoulda just let Kaylee install that damn cannon. Woulda saved myself a lot of energy and then she wouldn’t of been able to complain about my work.”

Book goes to a refrigerated cubby hole, returning with a beer. "Lucky that isn't a stomach wound, or there'd be none of this." Book hands him the beer.

Damon smiles gratefully and downs half of it in a few seconds. He lets out a tired sigh and rests his head against the chair. “Thanks again, Old Man.”

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

CHANNAIN

Monday, March 15, 2004 8:54 PM (P)

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - Start/End DINING ROOM through AFT PASSAGEWAY down to COMMON AREA AND PASSENGER DORMS to INFIRMARY
OOC: Looks kind of like Walt Disney threw up, doesn't it? This might be an example of how NOT to use the color tags.
------------------------------
BOOK: "Rowan, would you mind getting a med bag from the infirmary?"
------------------------------
ROWAN: "Not at all Shephard. Be right back."

Giving Damon's arm a quick squeeze, she heads for the rear hatchway and takes the back stairs down to the common area. Heading up to the passenger dorms first, she stows the attaché bag back under her bunk, checking her duffle first to insure the money pouch is still right where she left it before heading back out. Another thing besides a two-person lift - the Firefly really should have included personal locks on the passenger dorm doors.

Her balance is better than before, but there's also a dull ache in her eye, likely indicating the recent work done. Hopefully it won't be very long before the bandage can be removed. Then she'll have to work out how to explain her use of the contact lenses, but she figures she can jump out that airlock when she gets to it.

EOM

OOC: Holding further movement until we determine when Capn's getting back, and where Simon is right now.

We have art so as not to die of truth ~ Neitzsche
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

CIARA

Monday, March 15, 2004 11:43 PM (P)

Inara's turn

LOCATION - BRIDGETO DINING ROOM

Inara goes a bit dodgy

Inara drifted just outside the door to the helm, fists clenched and shaking, watching...trying not to stumble as the blasts rocked Serenity. She winced every time the ship groaned in protest.

They had it all well in hand...she truly wasn't needed, and that chafed most of all---Mal standing in their midst, looking stern and barking orders...Kaylee had just left, a bereft, pouting look on her face. Wash, perched in his usual chair--arms clenched in concentration, Zoe standing behind him like a guardian goddess--lending him strength through her fingertips on his shoulder. The new woman...she didn't even know her name...long blonde hair, and a gaze of iron...manning the new controls on the bridge....

Her eyes kept returning to Mal. Even when Rowan and Book carried Damon out--his face drawn, and the smell of fresh-spilt blood on him, she couldn't tear her eyes away...

There he stood, silhouetted against the front viewport, all ruffled hair and strong shoulders, seemingly unaffected as Serenity bucked and rolled under him...she hated him, she adored him, her heart burned and froze at the same time for him....love shouldn't be this complicated.

Finally, Inara turned away, following Rowan and Book down the halls into the galley, where Damon is now draped across one of the hard chairs, his shirt lifted, exposing an expanse of pale flesh, and a bandage soaked in blood. Damon swigs deeply from a can of beer, and relaxes against his seat--Book kneels before him.

Book murmurs to Rowan, she squeezes Damon's arm briefly before she sets off--Inara assumes she's going to fetch more bandages.

INARA:
Shepherd, have you seen Simon? Last time I saw him was in the Infirmary--shouldn't we be taking Damon to him?

End Inara's turn

ooc a lot of babbling for just one line :P

Just a humble supplicant in service to all things Joss

MERCEDESTROY

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 12:32 AM (P)

LOCATION - BRIDGE
As...

Quote:
MERZ, you ready to kick some Alliance Pigu*?

aye aye, sir Some deep and cautious part of her kept that from coming out.

MERZ is concentrating, ranging on the incoming targets ahead when an unknown voice claims part of her attention. She may not know who is speaking, but that tone she has heard before, and there is no question that it will be obeyed.

Quote:

“Pilot! On my command, give us max lift. Align the bow with that pair of ships. The other will be trying to get behind us. Gunner! Fire two quick bursts at the pair on the bow as soon as they’re in range...shake them up, then look dead astern. You should find the third about 30 degrees above horizon setting up his pass. You have two seconds to burn him, wing root or cockpit's best, then get back on the pair. Execute!”

She has fired off two shots in quick succession before he has finished speaking and swung the targeting around to the aft target, which is right where he ought to be. She hears the Captain’s "Good shot!" and is satisfied that he is on the bridge and that no one would be giving orders without his sayso.

She triggers a long burst at the aft target and swings back to the incoming from the fore. They have jinked right and left; as the gun is swinging from right to left she pulls off another shot at the right fighter as she swings by and then sets up a more aimed shot at the leftmost ship and does a long burn down the side as it flashes to the rear.

now i have two in the rear and one in the front. i have a few seconds while they turn for the next pass and the pilot is going to have to watch the one in front. can’t afford that many back shots.

MERZ quickly returns targeting to the rear and watches the rangefinder.

EOM

OOC
Well, I was right, this IS exciting. Now to wait until we have a clear idea on just how many ships are left. With any luck, now that Brink is headed for the os craft, Simon is already there waiting for him.

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

TEELABROWN

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 2:33 AM (P)

Yay! I'm posting! Hoo-ra! Hoo-ra! Hoo-ra!
__________
River is in the infirmary, as far as anyone knows. She decides to leave. She wanders down to the bridge. She looks at Damon, then at his arm.

It hurt. More than just physical pain. They tore you down. But you kept building yourself up. But every time they tore you down a little more. And it got harder to rebuild.

River goes to the kitchen.
__________

Okay, Squee, hope this flys with you. I can change it if you want.

_____________
"Freedom is the Freedom to say that 2+2 makes 4. If that is granted, all else follws"-Winston, 1984
Teela Brown, keeper of bad typing.
"No one reads these things any way."- Bart on Blackboard

GEEZER

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 2:49 AM (P)

Thorne's Move:

Location: Bridge

[THORNE casts a quick, rueful look in MAL's direction. He knows he's out of line, but instinct has taken over. Besides, he's done this many times, and the Captain has probably never fought a ship out of atmo before. The screens call his attention back to the fight.

The ventral camera shows a ground attack craft crash-landed near the waiting Gyrfalcon. The scans never noticed it, probably flying nap-of-the-earth, but a Nimbus managed to clip it. Smart missle. Not a problem for the Serenity any more. The others...]

THORNE: "Pilot. Turn to port and bear on those two cripples. Close as fast as you can. Be ready to 'Crazy Ivan' if I call it. Let engineering know. Gunner. Don't let them get set up. Fire as you bear, and keep them dodging. If one turns away, try to kill the other. You're both doing a great job."

[The ship spins and the laser hums once again. The fighters try to evade. One of them suddenly turns from a spacecraft into a cloud of laminate shards and pieces of what was once a man.]

THORNE: "Dead 'un! Drop it! Let's get another."

[A close miss from astern rattles the Firefly.]

Thorne:"Pilot! Crazy Ivan!"

EOM

'night, all.

"Keep the Shiny side up"

SQUEE

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 3:22 AM (P)

OOC: Shiny Teela!

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM

Damon shifts in his chair uncomfortably as Rowan gently squeezs his arm and walks out of the galley. He takes another drink of his beer and turns when Inara walks in.

Inara: "Shepherd, have you seen Simon? Last time I saw him was in the Infirmary--shouldn't we be taking Damon to him?"

Damon sighs inwardly. He's seen more doctor in one day than he did in eight years of enslavement. At least doctor meant more painkillers.

He turns back to Book, who is still inspecting his injuries, and notices a young girl looking at him. He hadn't even heard her come in. What was her name again?

Before he has a chance to ask her, her gaze shifts down to his right arm.

Quote:
Originally posted by TeelaBrown:

It hurt. More than just physical pain. They tore you down. But you kept building yourself up. But every time they tore you down a little more. And it got harder to rebuild.

Damon pales when he realizes what she is referring to and gets even paler when he realizes that she was stating much more than what was availible on the cortex. He doesn't hear his beer bottle hit the floor of the galley.

Quote:

Rough hands pulled Damon off the floor of the shuttle and shoved him hard. He felt the floor disappear from under his feet but with his hands cuffed behind his back, he couldn’t catch himself when he hit the dirt. He mumbled a curse through his gag as the hands grabbed him again and hauled him to his feet. One of them pulled the blindfold from his face, blinding him with the sudden exposure to the bright afternoon sunlight. He squeezed his eyes closed and turned his head away, trying to adjust to the brilliance.

“Name?” someone asked.

Damon was forced to his knees. A hand grabbed a fistful of his hair and yanked his head back sharply.

“Damon Boster,” another answered.

“Age?”

“Twenty-one.”

Damon opened his eyes and squinted at two men standing in front of him. One carried a clipboard and was writing on it, the other looked rich and in charge. The rich ones were always in charge. In the distance were hundreds of workers going in and out of several mines. He cursed his father silently, swearing again that he would kill him the next time he laid eyes on him.

“Background?” the man with the clipboard asked.

“Sold into service three years ago. Worked in an Alliance weapons and military vehicles factory until sold here.”

The rich man smiled. “Not much profit in making weapons and tanks now that the war is over is there?”

Damon tried to speak through the gag, but none of it was audible. The rich man nodded to one of the men behind Damon. His hair was released and the gag was removed.

Damon spat in the man’s face and tried to pull free from the men holding him. They grabbed his hair again and pulled his head back until his neck felt like it would snap. The man with the clipboard stepped up and kneed him in the gut.

“That’s enough,” the rich man said to the man with the clipboard, “Go get the iron.” He stepped up to Damon and leaned forward until his face was only an inch from Damon’s. His breath stank of expensive wine. “Well, Damon, welcome to your new home. My name is Crofton Trinh, but you will call me either sir or master. You will speak when spoken to, you will come when I or any of my men call, two meals a day are rewarded for obedience and if you disobey, you will be punished. Your kind don’t last around here. Break fast or break hard.”

Damon wished they would let go of his head so that he could spit at him again, or maybe break his nose. “Chur ni-duh, hwoon dahn,” he glared at him defiantly, “I’m not afraid of you, and nothing you can do will ever change that.”

Crofton smiled and stood back as the man with the clipboard came into view, only now he was holding branding iron with a two-inch, red-hot Chinese symbol for ‘Trinh’ at the end.

Damon’s eyes went wide for a moment and then he pulled at the handcuffs behind his

CIARA

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 5:54 AM (P)

Inara's turn

LOCATION - DINING ROOM

Inara: "Shepherd, have you seen Simon? Last time I saw him was in the Infirmary--shouldn't we be taking Damon to him?"

Book shakes his head--Inara can't decide if it's because he doesn't know what to do with Damon, or that he doesn't know where Simon is--either way, it troubles Inara.

Damon turns as River floats in, and speaks to him, her voice soft with her usual brand of all-knowing wisdom.

RIVER: It hurt. More than just physical pain. They tore you down. But you kept building yourself up. But every time they tore you down a little more. And it got harder to rebuild.

Inar keeps her eyes focused on River for a moment, mulling the words over in her mind: She turns to Damon--mouth open to query him on his status, and freezes.

Damon's dark brown eyes are glazed and hazy--the pupil nearly eclipsing the iris. His face is pale, paler than Inara has seen it thus far--making his wound and his wide, unblinking eyes stand out all the more. As Inara begins to step forward, to touch Damon, do anything to pull him from the reverie he seems to be stuck in--Damon's body relaxes, falling bonelessly into the chair, the hand holding the beer goes limp and the bottle crashes to the floor near Book's knee.

Book starts back a little--eyes also on Damon's face..."Son...son can you hear me?" Book shakes Damon gently, Damon's head lolls on the headrest.

Inara is now crouched at Damon's side as well--waving her fingers in front of his staring eyes. "Book, please....where is Simon?"

End Inara's turn

ooc waiting to see when Damon wants to waken from his nightmare....let me know if you want me to downplay it, Squee...I can re-do

Just a humble supplicant in service to all things Joss

SQUEE

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 7:58 AM (P)

OOC: maybe down play that a little Ciara. He's definately shocked and creepified- River brought back a memory, but he's not completely lost in space. great writing though. I'll work with it.

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM

"Son...son can you hear me?"

Damon feels someone shake him gently. He shoves his memory aside and finds himself still staring at the girl in the kitchen.

"Wuh duh ma huh ta duh fung-kwong duh wai-shung doh," he mutters, absently rubbing his burn. He glances down at his arm, wondering if she had seen it. But, like always, it was covered by his shirt sleeve. He looks back up at River.

How did she know any of that? She did say it right? I didn't imagine it. I'm not crazy. I've lost a lot of things over the years but not my mind. Gorramit, how did she know?

He pulls his gaze away from River and tries to stand up, but two pairs of hands gently keep him in the chair. He immediately shrugs the hands off and looks up at Inara and Book warily.

Wuh duh ma huh ta duh fung-kwong duh wai-shung doh = Holy mother of god and all her wacky Nephews

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

MANIACNUMBERONE

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 9:09 AM (P)

Book's Move

LOCATION - Galley

Book pulls Inara back a step as Damon comes back to himself and swings out an arm. Gently leading Inara to an alcove in a corner of the galley, Book gets a towel from a drawer and takes the memory stick from his pocket.

"Simon's gone. You and I need to watch out for River."

Book hands Inara the memory stick as she starts to protest. Book hushes Inara down and says in a quick whisper.

"This is a retina and dna encoded memory stick. It has a message for each of the crew. I was planning to give it to the captain first, but... well, give it to the captain when you've looked at it."

Book pauses and looks meaningfully at Inara.

"If you want me to give it to him instead, I will understand. Just return it to me quickly. I feel a great weight on my shoulders."

Book leaves Inara in the alcove with the memory stick in her hand, and he goes out to the spilled beer. Dropping the towel on the mess, he goes back over to Damon, who appears to be giving River the evil eye.

EM

MERCEDESTROY

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 12:00 PM (P)

SIMONs Move – created and posted with permission.

LOCATION - SERENITY VALLEY

He is out of sight, next to the Gyrfalcon, watching Serenity battle the fighters. He is a doctor and he does not rejoice in anyone’s death. But when the laser cannon fires for the first time, he is obscurely glad that they managed to get it installed – that Serenity can defend herself.

They must have been working on it while he was saying the last goodbye and before . . .

Quote:

On the way out of the engine room he picks up the rucksack he left at the door, the taste of her still on his lips. ‘Time to go’, he thinks, ‘it is something that must be done.’

He heads for the Cargo Bay and the open hatch. When he arrives it is a bustle of activity, final preparation for leaving. Captain Reynolds is speaking to Inara and a woman he does not know. Everyone has his or her back to him for the moment and he slips out of the door.

SLIGHT left a note on his pack explaining about the waiting Gyrfalcon and where to find it. SIMON has said all of the goodbyes he needed to – the rest are on the memory stick in BOOKs hands. He trusts in their delivery. He has reached the Gyrfalcon when he hears the engines of the incoming ships ramp up for their first high speed pass and is rocked by the initial volley of ground fire. But it is far enough away to be safe.

He has left everything that has any meaning to him aboard that ship. He watches tensely as two of the attacking ships lose to the cannon fire. And the third has positioned itself so that Serenity herself is between the fighter and the cannon, and is taking potshots at her tail.

Suddenly, Serenity maneuvers, a fast directional change that has left her in the clear, the fighter in their sights, and SIMON with closed eyes. “Crazy Ivan”, he thinks. “That is almost as hard to watch as it is to experience.”

There is a touch on his elbow. He opens his eyes to see Serenity blasting into the black. When he turns around, SLIGHT is just disappearing into the pilots chair of the little ship. “Time to go”. He gives one more look at the departing ship as he moves around to the other door and raises a hand to wave, not caring that no one will see. “Until we meet again,” he thinks, and seats himself. He closes the door, and they lift smoothly away.

EOM

OOC when Simon returns this may well end up edited

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

MERCEDESTROY

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 1:00 PM (P)

Mercedes Move

LOCATION: BRIDGE

Quote:
"Dead 'un! Drop it! Let's get another."

Serenity rattles as something either impacts or nearly misses the stern.

good, one down one behind She swings the crosshairs aft and all she gets is ‘no target, no target, no target’ . he’s sussed the gun placement. he knows how to stay hidden in our own silhouette There isn’t time enough to worry before she hears

Quote:
"Pilot! Crazy Ivan!"

*wode tìan.a sudden realization of not fastening fighting straps when she sat down, too late now even if there are any. this is going to hurt someone She gets one leg wrapped as best she can around the chair and thinks heavy thoughts. MERZ keeps the crosshairs in the direction of Serenity’s bow and holds.

Serenity pirouettes.

‘no target, no target, no target, target, target, target lock’ at the same time she is losing her battle with gravity and momentum. Merz fires as long as she can reach the controls and then she is no longer facing the controls, but deck plates instead.

All her training remains with her, and MERZ turns in mid-air, managing to hit the deck in a three-point landing, left foot, right knee and right hand. MERZ hits hard enough to ring the deck and it takes an instant to recover her equilibrium before springing up and back at the chair. talk to me someone, do we still have a target

“Pilot, Report” she barks.

EOM

*wode tìan = oh sky!(colloquial: Oh God!)

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

GEEZER

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 3:39 PM (P)

Thorne's move:

Location: Bridge.

THORNE:"...Crazy Ivan"

[The instant the words leave his mouth THORNE realizes that he has no idea if WASH can do a 'Crazy Ivan', or even knows what it is. As the ship yaws from the reversing engine, he drops that worry, even as his grip on the back of WASH's seat tightens.

No need to direct the gunner. She's already targeting the piece of sky the fighter will fill in a second. She braces in her chair through the turn, opening up as soon as she receives a firing solution from the computer.

A final jerk of Serenity throws her to the floor, but she's back up in an instant.]

MERZ:“Pilot, Report”

[WASH is still talking to the engine room, so THORNE speaks.]

THORNE:"We're good. You burned off his left wing and he hit the silk. Two down, and the last a cripple. Pilot. Stay on this course and head for the black. I don't think the damaged one can catch us in a stern chase. It's tempting to hang around and try for a hat trick, but now's the time to run. If they don't have anything in low orbit above us, we're home free. Excellent work all 'round."

[THORNE relaxes his grip on the pilot seat. Damn! He hasn't felt this alive in years! After Serenity Valley he thought he'd put his love of command behind him, but it was back like the best drug ever. Have to be careful on another man's ship, though. Figure how to make up to the captain for usurping his authority, and try not to do it again. When we get to New Hokkaido maybe go look for a boat of his on. Still..Damn, that feels good. Now to set a time with INARA, and life couldn't get much better.]

EOM

"Keep the Shiny side up"

ASTRIANA

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 4:48 PM (P)

ZOE'S MOVE:
LOCATION - BRIDGE
As...

ZOE watches as BOOK and ROWAN take DAMON off the bridge, then turns to the comm controls.

ZOE: "Doc, you might wanna get a bed ready. Shepherd's on his way down with DAMON.

ZOE turns to watch the Alliance ships' progress on the monitors, waiting with half an ear for an acknowledgement or one of SIMON's inevitable questions about what's happening.

THORNE:"...Crazy Ivan"

ZOE switches the comm channel to include the entire ship.

ZOE: "This is ZOE. Everybody find somethin' to hang on to."

ZOE braces herself against the console to her right as WASH swings the ship around. As she prepares for the inevitable jolt of the Ivan, ZOE notices that the "Airlock Open" light flashes and then goes dark. She mentally tucks that info away, figuring that the ex-Blue Sun op jumped ship, the way he'd been threatening. She takes a closer look at the scanners, and sees not one but two life signs heading away from Serenity and toward the ops vehicle. Figuring SLIGHT must've met a friend along the way, ZOE turns her attention back to the fight.

MERZ fires a volley, then is tossed from her seat by WASH's maneuvering. ZOE admires how quickly the woman recovered and got back to work.

MERZ:“Pilot, Report”

ZOE bristles slightly at the woman's tone, but WASH is still talking to KAYLEE in the engine room. ZOE hears THORNE's reply as she turns her attention back to the scanners.

THORNE: "We're good. You burned off his left wing and he hit the silk. Two down, and the last a cripple. Pilot. Stay on this course and head for the black. I don't think the damaged one can catch us in a stern chase. It's tempting to hang around and try for a hat trick, but now's the time to run. If they don't have anything in low orbit above us, we're home free. Excellent work all 'round."

As THORNE relaxes his grip on WASH's seat, ZOE sees that the life signs are no longer on the ground, and it looks like they've appeared on the ops vehicle. Wondering who SLIGHT's friend might be, ZOE's mind starts working to suss out if he's a possible threat, all the while feeling a niggling discomfort in the back of her mind.

Suddenly, all the piece come together: SLIGHT's talk about jumping ship, the air lock opening and closing, the camaraderie between SLIGHT and SIMON when she left the infirmary, SIMON's lack of response to impending injuries, and two life signs heading toward the ops vehicle. A chill runs down her spine as she turns toward MAL.

ZOE: "Sir, I don't think the doc and that SLIGHT are on the boat."

As WASH begins his next set of course corrections, ZOE locks eyes with MAL as they come to the same question: If SIMON's gone, where's RIVER?

~A~

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

RAVENWHYTEWING

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 5:58 PM (P)

Wash's move:
Wash takes a deep breathe. He's never flown a hairball before, and Serenity has taken a lot of stress over the last few minutes. "We should be fine, but Kaylee is gonna be earning her pay for the next few days." Then he hears Zoes statement, and, while he's still piloting the ship, he turns back. "Where in the 'Verse could they be headed? and how in the world did that Blue Sun guy get off the ship?"

Slight's move:
Slight straps in.
He'd honestly wanted Merz to come along, but there's no hope for that now. "What do you see, Brink Helsing. . .?"
With a mental note, he sends a message through the feedback monitors as he launches the craft. "Better grab something, doctor, this is gonna take a bit of wild turning."
His armor responds to his mental urgings, as various chemicals are surged into his bloodstream.

The armor was a special design by the Blue Sun. On Earth that Was, the scientists had experimented with the idea of nano-technology. With some special modifications, the Sun had perfected it. Crawling across his back and latched under his clothes are trillions of robots, machines with barely enough memory to work a remote alone. Together, they rival a ships entire onboard systems. They are multi-functional, from camoflauge to chaff, dispersing bullets, to the blade that he had killed the fed with. It's self-contained-one unit can regenerate the enitre armor in a matter of hours. And they're loaded with regeration chemicals, stimulants, and painkillers. That required a special system to restock, one that is built into his belt. He has only to stick a vial in, and in five minutes it can be discharged into his system equally and to specific areas. It is an armor that can do anything he can imagine it to.

>Until we meet again<
Slight feels the mental comment. "Won't be long doctor, this will be fairly in and out." He can feel the shock and inevitable rage of a norm at his mental intrusion. In response, he fishes out the inhaler, to give him the hour or so of peace. He makes a mental note that during a mission, the control chemicals fade quickly.
Slight kicks the obs craft into overdrive, and flies to the coordinates. Thorne and Merz can catch up later, if they want. He has work that needs to be done.

I'm talking about geese.

CHANNAIN

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 6:45 PM (P)

Rowan’s Move:
LOCATION: Infirmary

Stepping inside, she fully expects to find Simon there, busily checking his supplies in response to the battle sounds outside, calculating his inventory in his head in expectation of casualties. She’s seen more than one medic in the process before, and was often comforted by their foresight.

But the infirmary is empty - not just empty, but vacant. It has the definite feel of abandonment that reminds her of how the Independent operations control facility felt ten minutes after the division generals warned them that the Alliance was on its way. Xiang ordered the evacuation instantly, and she had fully intended to comply.
------------------------------
FLASHBACK

Of all the stupid things to do. Leaving behind the only memory stick with all the command codes for the Revolution? Good thing she had an “in” with the liaison or there surely would have been hell to pay.

He came up the stairs behind her, and she could feel his rage even as he called to her in Chinese. “What do you think you are doing?”

“I will be right there,” she replied. Having reached her station, she opened the top right hand drawer and plucked it from the front of the storage unit. Beyond the door leading into the hall, she heard Alliance forces entering from the elevator.

“They will be through that door in one minute,” he informed her urgently.

Holding up the memory stick, she nodded and then bolted back across the room to him beaming. “Do you know you’re beautiful when you’re angry?”

He angled his gaze accusingly, not about to be placated by her idea of sweet talk. He truly was beautiful - darkly handsome with the bearing of the kings he was descended from. She had to wonder what his reaction would be if she admitted the way he glared at her was a more potent aphrodisiac than anything any companion would have come up with. He reached out for her as she approached and she put her hand into his, feeling his strength and his warmth.

“You will be the death of me one day,” he muttered irritably as he gave her a little shove to escort her down the back stairs.
------------------------------
Pushing the memory aside, Rowan rummages about the infirmary as the medic training she took on board the Rembrandt comes flooding back. Snatching up a red bag, she finds it fortified with the basics, including a sucher kit and is about to head back upstairs when the deck tips and spins as if the Almighty himself reached down to take hold of Serenity, pick her up, twist her around and set her down again backwards. Rowan was lifted right of her feet and tossed onto the counter, slamming against the glass window like a wet dishrag. All the air was pushed out of her lungs and she tipped off again to land on the floor only to slide across to the other side of the infirmary before coming to a halt.

Gasping for breath, she wonders if Wash was always a maniac, or if it’s just something he picked up since coming on board Serenity.

EOM

OOC: Ever have one of those words you can never spell right? "Sucher" is one of mine.

We have art so as not to die of truth ~ Neitzsche
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

GEEZER

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 7:06 PM (P)

Thorne's/Mal's Move:

Location: Bridge

[The sky outside the ports turns from blue to black as Serenity breaks atmo. Stars appear. Scans show no Alliance ships in pursuit range. THORNE stands between MERZ and WASH and rests a hand on each one's shoulder.]

THORNE:"Stand down. We're well away now, thanks to you. I'd fly with you people any day. WASH, pass that on to KAYLEE too, if you'd please.

(turning to MAL) Captain, I'm sorry. Old fire horses still answer the bell, and my instincts just took over. I assure you it won't happen again. Please forgive me."

[MAL answers THORNE with a vague wave of his hand. His mind is too full of questions. Where did he learn to fight a spaceship like that? Obviously ex-military, was he Alliance or Brown-coat? How could he get such instant obedience from folk he'd never met before, with just the confident and commanding tone of his voice? MAL's orders often as not just started a debate. Anger was fading, replaced by curiosity.]

ZOE: "Sir, I don't think the doc and that SLIGHT are on the boat."

[What? Well, here's a chance to try that commanding voice. Mal walks to the comm.]

MAL: "Shepherd, JAYNE. Round up everybody not on the bridge an' move 'em to the galley. Let's see if we're missing any sheep. WASH. Set course for New Hokkaido an' then follow us. Everybody else in here head for the mess hall too. We got some headcountin' and sortin' out to do."

[MAL turns and walks for the galley, hoping that the rest are following him.]

EOM

OOC: Well, anybody want to argue with Mal right now and further abuse his already battered ego? I thought not.

"Keep the Shiny side up"

RAVENWHYTEWING

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 7:18 PM (P)

Wash's move:
Wash progra,s in the coordinates, and slides the wheel into the locked position. He stands and stretches, exhausted by the flying he's just commited.

He hears Thornes compliment as though from a waking dream.
"Stand down. We're well away now, thanks to you. I'd fly with you people any day. WASH, pass that on to KAYLEE too, if you'd please."
Wash shrugs it off. He's flown easier skies, and harder. He grins a bit, remembering that flight on St. Albans. But this was the first time he'd flown a hotzone packing heat, and his knees are still a little shakey. He reaches out to grab Zoes shoulder, hoping to siphon some of her incredible strength of character. "I hope we get paid on New Hokkaido, cuz I won't mind some diapers the next time I fly like that," he mutters, half joking and half mentally checking himself for any moistness he feels. He takes a deep breath. He could afford some drink right now.

I'm talking about geese.

CIARA

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 8:37 PM (P)

Inara's turn, supplemental

*slight flashback*

Inara stands in the corner of the galley, memory stick in hand, looking after Book in a very confused manner. Her gaze travels from the stick to Book and back again. She's not sure she WANTS to see what's on it.

Seeing Damon try to stand, she forgets the stick for a moment, nestling it snugly in a hidden pocket in the front of her dress.

Stepping forward and adding her hands to Book's on Damon's shoulder, Inara urges the man back down into the chair.

"Rowan will be back soon with supplies, and after we fix you up again, you can wander the halls tearing stitches all you want. Until then, please stay put."

Damon glares up at she and Book warily, and Inara slides to her knees by Book, picking up the towel and finishing the cleanup he had started before Damon's escape attempt.

Suddenly, Serenity gives a hard spin, making Inara feel as if gravity has been suspended for a moment. Inara finds herself on her back near Damon's chair, covered in beer and with the crunch of broken glass under her shoulders. Something else is amiss...Inara can't decide what it is. Her eyes regain focus and she realizes hers aren't the only eyes in the vicinity....she looks up into Shepherd Book's suprised face--he's pressing her into the deck plating, their bodies touching from breast to foot.

Book jumps to his feet and pulls Inara up after him.

**letting Maniac take Books side of this if he wants**

End Inara's turn

Just a humble supplicant in service to all things Joss

CHANNAIN

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 8:49 PM (P)

Rowan’s Move
LOCATION: INFIRMARY

Dragging herself off the deck, she braces herself on hands and knees and manages to force air back into her lungs.
------------------------------
FLASHBACK

He moved too fast to be seen, catching her behind the knees and effortlessly yanking her right off her feet. Striking the floor on her back, she felt the air knocked out of her lungs and had a hard time pulling it back. He moved down to her, setting the bo staff aside before lifting her head onto his lap and stroking her hair.

“I’m sorry, “ he said softly. “I didn’t mean to catch you off guard.”

He had always caught her off guard, and if she could breathe, she would have told him so. It might be overly sentimental - all right, it would be downright sappy, but nothing could be more true. When he was merely her professor she found herself interested in words and topics that had bored her to tears in the past. When they were colleagues, his overwhelming presence and quiet charisma affected her long before their eyes met in a timeless moment and her heart leapt for joy.

But since she couldn’t speak, she glared up at him and managed to rasp in Chinese. “You will get yours.”

Only he saw the look in her eyes and wasn’t the least bit fooled. With a smile curving his lips, he bent down to press a kiss to her brow.
------------------------------
Rowan shook her head violently, dispelling another tender memory. Seven years of trying not to think about him and now she can’t stop?

ROWAN (muttering): "Wode tìan - what next?"

Scrambling to her feet, she gathers up the bag that she had managed to hold onto, and heads out. Dragging herself back up the aft stairs, she makes her way back to the galley.

EOM

We have art so as not to die of truth ~ Neitzsche
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

SQUEE

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 9:06 PM (P)

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM

"Rowan will be back soon with supplies, and after we fix you up again, you can wander the halls tearing stitches all you want. Until then, please stay put."

Damon turns his attention back to River, who is now staring at him again. He stares back, not sure what to expect.

How much more did she know? That worried him more than anything. He hadn't been entirely truthful to the captain about why he was on the run and he didn't think that the captain would like that if he found out.

River breaks their gaze as she looks toward the bridge with another one of her creepy looks.

"Turning backwards. Don't fall," she says to no in particular and sits herself down on the floor.

Before Damon has a chance to wonder what she was talking about, the ship lurches out from under them. Damon gets thrown out of his chair and hits the deck with a hard thud. Pots and pans, water kettles, tea cups, cooking utensils and food items rain down from the kitchen counters. The ship moves again, rolling Damon across the floor until he meets the wall with another thud.

He lays there for a moment, pulling breaths in short pained gasps. His eyes are closed, but he can still feel the room spinning around him. When his head clears enough to pull his thoughts back together, he opens his eyes and finds himself laying face down on the kitchen floor. River kneels beside him, watching him silently.

Come on, Damon, get up.

His arms move but they refuse to lift him off of the floor.

Get up.

Again nothing. He closes his eyes, letting his mind drift toward unconsciousness.

Quote:
It hurt. More than just physical pain. They tore you down. But you kept building yourself up. But every time they tore you down a little more. And it got harder to rebuild.

Crofton's voice whispers in his ear, "Are you ready to give up yet?"

Damon's eyes snap open. He turns over and swings at someone that isn't there, his pain and injuries forgotten in a wave of fury and adrenaline. He pushes himself back against the wall and stands up. Looking around, he recognizes Book and Inara tangled together on the floor.

River stands up next to him, beaming up at him. "Not broken."

He looks away from her. "No nothing's broken," he says, though he knows that wasn't what she was reffering to.

OOC: Teela, hope you don't mind my minor River lines. I can change it if you want. I thought River forseeing the Crazy Ivan would be appropriate though.

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

MANIACNUMBERONE

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 9:18 PM (P)

Book's Move

Location: Galley

A sudden wavering, a twist in the air, and Book wobbles, spins and catches something on his way to the floor. When the room stops twirling, and the ship lurches back into normal gravity, Book lets out a soft grunt and finds himself on the floor, pressed deep into Inara's body.

Immediately aware of her entire body, Book pulls himself hastily off of Inara, and hears the captain's voice over the intercom asking him and Jayne to gather the crew together in the galley. Helping Inara to her feet, Book offers her an apology and goes quickly to the rear door of the galley. Pausing next to River, he says, "Stay here, alright River?"

Not waiting for an answer, he goes out through the doorway and calls down the hall to the engine room.
"Kaylee, come on down to the galley"
Book turns and walks slowly down the aft stairs, thinking hopelessly how he should tell the crew that Simon is gone.

EM

MERCEDESTROY

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 12:00 AM (P)

LOCATION – LEFT BEHIND, IN SERENITY VALLEY

Hidden under Hlastoni’s fighter, in Serenity Valley, there are two new objects. It is not likely they should have ended in this odd location by accident.

One is a unit patch, torn from a uniform jacket. It has been not only removed, but also mutilated. It can’t be read but you can still see A.*** L. across the top.

The other is a square of thin metal about the size of a book page. It has been carefully etched, polished and then coated against tarnish. The etching is language – and it reads:

Maro: I am in need of an explanation.

Hlas: I always gave you the same answer; perhaps it is time to ask the question again.

Veila: You taught me the meaning of comfort food. Is the galley still open?

Heropa: I think I’ve broken it beyond all hope of repair.

Milla: It always did gave me a headache trying to keep up with you.

Kara: So many things I have to show you . . . and build with you

Gigi: and you too, if you will just stop and sit with me awhile

I am looking for you.

Find me, please.

***********************************************

How long before the dust covers the message?

Does anyone come here anymore?

Time will tell.

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

MERCEDESTROY

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 12:37 AM (P)

MERZ’s Move

LOCATION - BRIDGE
to HALLWAY TO DINING ROOM

Quote:
THORNE: "Stand down. We're well away now, thanks to you. I'd fly with you people any day. WASH, pass that on to KAYLEE too, if you'd please.

MERZ accepts the hand on her shoulder, it is brief enough and as celebrations go, it could be worse. She closes her eyes and concentrates on flushing the rest of the adrenalin out of her system before standing. slow down mercedes, nice and easy now, its all over She rubs her right knee where it is hidden under the console. slowin’ down old girl. you better put in some hard time training just as soon as you get the chance. MERZ stands and puts weight on the leg, deciding it should only be a bruise. Before leaving the console, she locks down the firing controls.

She has hung back until everyone else has left the bridge, before following. Now comes the part she dreads. Now there will be questions. maybe i should have left with Brink? A pointless exercise in speculation. For better or worse she is here now and it is time to follow the Captains orders and assemble. Captain . . .Captain what? Merz has not caught his name.

i never wanted to do that again. so why does it come back so easily? i just can’t fight what i am; what I was made. can it be enough to also be something else, when i can?

She reaches the dining area and settles down, hopefully out of sight, out of mind leaning on the wall just barely inside the door. From here she can hear everything, but maybe they will forget about her for a while.

Dining room. Yes, fuel would be welcome.

MERZ listens.

EOM

{edited to correct MERZ location}

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

CHANNAIN

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 1:42 AM (P)

Rowan's Move
LOCATION - AFT STAIRS AND PASSAGEWAY to DINING ROOM

She's on the landing and more than halfway up when she hears the Shepherd's voice and looks up to see him standing at the top of the aft stairs.

BOOK: "Kaylee, come on down to the galley."

He turns then and starts a slow descent, looking as if he's carrying the weight of the 'verse on his shoulders. The ship's aspect seems to have leveled off and smoothed out. Rowan can't even hear gunfire anymore, which poses the question - when all is calm, what could possibly be bad enough to send a Shepherd to worrying?

ROWAN: "Hey, Shepherd. I think I have everything we need. As soon as we locate Simon, I'll be happy to assist putting xiâo dì dì back together."

EOM

We have art so as not to die of truth ~ Neitzsche
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

GEEZER

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 2:19 AM (P)

Mal's Move:

Location: Galley

[Folk are starting to assemble in the galley, but there's still a few coming. MAL sees MERZ sitting alone in a corner, and walks over to her.]

MAL:"That was some mighty fancy shootin' back there. I'd guess this wasn't your first fight. Hate to seem ungrateful after what you did, but I gotta ask. What were you doing out in that God-forsaken valley, anyway?"

"Keep the Shiny side up"

MERCEDESTROY

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 3:08 AM (P)

LOCATION - GALLEY

i can’t catch a break

It does not take long for the Captain to notice her and approach.

Quote:
MAL:"That was some mighty fancy shootin' back there. I'd guess this wasn't your first fight. Hate to seem ungrateful after what you did, but I gotta ask. What were you doing out in that God-forsaken valley, anyway?"

He still has that ‘I’m gonna be obeyed’ tone in his voice. aye aye, sir

MERZ speaks after a brief pause. There is no inflection, no life in her voice. It might as well be a machine speaking. “I am searching for . . . friends I have not seen in many years. It is important that I find them, important to me at least. There was a possibility that a clue to where they have gone might have been there. I was there to search. I appear to have been mistaken.”

She stops there. It is all the answer she has.

EOM

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

ASTRIANA

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 3:33 AM (P)

ZOE'S MOVE:
LOCATION - BRIDGE to DINING ROOM

ZOE follows MAL from the bridge to the galley, and finds herself a spot against the wall. From here, she knows she has the best vantage point to watch everyone arrive, and will have a good view of everyone once they're gathered. ZOE sees RIVER leaning over DAMON, sprawled on the floor, and watches quietly as MAL walks to MERZ, who has taken up a spot in the corner, looking like she hopes to go unnoticed.

MAL: "That was some mighty fancy shootin' back there. I'd guess this wasn't your first fight. Hate to seem ungrateful after what you did, but I gotta ask. What were you doing out in that God-forsaken valley, anyway?"

ZOE (to herself): "That's somethin' I'd like to know. I wonder where she learned to shoot like that?"

Taking in MERZ's response, ZOE settles herself a little more comfortably against the wall and watches as BOOK enters looking forlorn with ROWAN on his heels. As the passengers and crew assembles, ZOE keeps track of who's still missing and where they might be. Just this once, she'd like to be wrong, like to see the doctor come sauntering into the galley looking for all the world like nothing was the matter. Unfortunately, the longer she stands there - and the more folks come to be accounted for - the less likely her hope becomes.

End Move.

~A~

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

SQUEE

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 5:17 AM (P)

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM

Damon stands in a corner of the kitchen watching the dinning room get fuller by the second. The Captain is talking to Merz, Book and Rowan are coming in from the hall, Inara is picking up various items that fell on the floor, and Wash stands with an arm around Zoe, who is watching everyone. Their eyes meet for a moment, Zoe's gaze saying: I'm sorry you're hurt, but I still don't trust you with that firearm. Damon's saying: I'm too gorram tired to move let alone squeeze a gun trigger.
He can barely make out a voice coming up from the stairwell: "The Hero of Canton..."

Judging by the overal positive attitude of the crew, Damon guesses that they are once again Fed free. He's not sure if he was lucky that they were around to save him or if he was unlucky to end up on a ship that attracts Feds as easily as he does. At least the ship is armed now. And with so many defensive crew members, he shouldn't have to worry about the ship being boarded in the middle of the night.

Now all I need is some food and I'll be set for some sleep. He spots Rowan making her way over to him with the red med bag. Oh yeah... and maybe a bandage or two.

He lifts up his shirt enough to see his reopened wound was bleeding again. The damn thing is never going to heal at this rate and those bandages aren't doing anything. I'll take care of it proper as soon as the galley is empty. Proper? This space talk is getting to me. Couple more years and I won't even know that I was core raised.

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

MANIACNUMBERONE

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 9:15 AM (P)

Book's Move

LOCATION - Aft Hallway, entering Galley

Book stops short near the top of the stairs and looks up from studying his hands as Rowan addresses him.

--------
"Hey, Shepherd. I think I have everything we need. As soon as we locate Simon, I'll be happy to assist putting xiâo dì dì back together."
--------

"I think we'll have to manage by ourselves... Damon's not too bad off, he just needs to sit still for a few hours after we sew him up again."

Book gestures for Rowan to take the lead into the Galley at the same time that she offers it to him. He finds himself diverted and happy for a moment, by such a small thing, but the task ahead pushes the moment's pleasant forgetfulness away. "It's strange," Book thinks to himself, as he and Rowan go together through the doorway, "that it's the little things that make us the happiest, that keep us going from day to day."

Book lets go of his fear as he walks through the doorway. "It's foolish," He says. (He supposes that he says this to himself, but he actually says it out loud.)

EM

GEEZER

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 12:32 PM (P)

Mal's Move:

Location: Galley

MERZ:“I am searching for . . . friends I have not seen in many years. It is important that I find them, important to me at least. There was a possibility that a clue to where they have gone might have been there. I was there to search. I appear to have been mistaken.”

[Well, another answer that just leads to more questions, but not right now. MAL looks around to see that everyone is finally here, except SLIGHT and SIMON. It's sortin' time.]

MAL:"Everybody quiet down! Been a busy day an' we're all tired, but we got a few more problems. First off, can somebody get us some chow goin'?

Second, we done picked up another stray, MERZ TROY, over there. Seems like our hitchers have done us good so far, so we'll keep 'em for a while.

Third, if this is all that's on the ship, we're missin' a couple. SLIGHT said he was gettin' off in the Valley, so that's no surprise, but where in Hell's the Doc? Does any of you know? Who saw him last?

EOM

"Keep the Shiny side up"

MANIACNUMBERONE

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 6:08 PM (P)

Book's Move

Location: Galley

Book, finally having decided to let it out, approaches Mal.

"They're gone, captain. They left while we were in Serenity Valley. Simon came to me earlier... said he had to leave right away if he wanted to catch his chance of helping River."

Book pauses for a moment and looks aroound.

"I tried to stop him. I asked him many questions. but he had no time to answer... He said he encoded messages for each of the crew on a memory stick."

Book looks up at Inara.

"I already viewed what Simon had to say to me, and I gave the memory stick to Inara."

Book goes to the large table and sits down.

"Brink Helsing went with him."

EM

CHANNAIN

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 6:14 PM (P)

Rowan’s Move
LOCATION - Aft Hallway, entering Galley
------------------------------
BOOK: "I think we'll have to manage by ourselves... Damon's not too bad off, he just needs to sit still for a few hours after we sew him up again.”
------------------------------

Rowan didn’t have to be too keenly observant to notice the Shepherd’s concern over Simon’s disappearance. Yet he’s not concerned enough to indicate Simon may have come to harm, or been pinched under protest. It’s more like he’s aware of what Simon’s up to and the reason for it, but doesn’t entirely approve. Now isn’t that just like a preacher?

Since she’s still moving slow, Rowan gestures for the Shepherd to go first just has he does the same thing. Smiling at the silliness, she gives him a slow nod and waits for him to take the lead. She follows him into the dining room where it seems everyone on the ship has been assembled, or just about. Noting Simon’s absence, she’s also aware that Slight isn’t among the group either. Hoping he’s managed to find an alternate occupation - permanently - she turns to the chair Damon was in only to find him leaning heavily on the back wall instead. His shirt is pulled up to reveal the lean muscle over his abdomen and a large area of red irritation set off by a small amount of blood. He’s about to touch it when she catches his hand and shifts it aside.

When Damon looks at her, showing her how weary he is, she shifts to his uninjured side and gently takes his arm. Ignoring Reynolds’ speechifying isn’t hard in the face of someone in need.

ROWAN: “Don’t you think you better sit down before you fall down?”

EOM

We have art so as not to die of truth ~ Neitzsche
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

RAVENWHYTEWING

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 6:44 PM (P)

Wash moves in next to Zoe, as plainly confused as everyone else. "What kind of chance would there be to save her here? And how in the 'Verse did he get off the ship in mid-Ivan? I had difficulty keeping my lunch in, I can't imagine it being easy to leap off a moving ship."
Wash notices that Merz seems a little lost, but she isn't focusing too hard on the conversation. What else could there be? It couldn't be over a Blue Sun exec. That man was trouble in the most basic of times.

I'm talking about geese.

BOOMERGOODHEART

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 6:53 PM (P)

Kaylee's Move
Location: Galley

After the exhilirating ride that Wash just gave--she'll never get tired of the Crazy Ivan--Kaylee putters around the engine room, making minor adjustments here and there.

Hearing Book calling down the passageway for her, she makes her way to the Galley, hair all messed up and cheeks flushed with pleasure.

Entering the Galley, she takes in that everyone is there except for Simon & that Slight fella. When the Captain asks after the doctor, Book regretfully informs the crew that he's gone.

Sucking in a deep breath, she closes her eyes. She knew that something was up with Simon when he came to see her. Now she knows what it was. No matter how hard she tries, though, she can't bring herself to be worried about him. Something inside of her says that they have unfinished business, and that the 'Verse will never let that stand.

Opening her eyes, she says to no one in particular, "He has work to do. He'll be back."

With one significant look at River, Kaylee heads back to the engine room.

End Move

BoomerGoodheart
"I love my Captain."

RAVENWHYTEWING

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 7:09 PM (P)

Slight types in the coordinates, and looks back to see Simon staring out the window, lost in thought. "Don't suppose you're up for conversation."
Simon smiles just a little, and shakes his head. Slight can't even be sure it's in response to his question. The drugs the armor has given him are a little confusing that way. "Cristo, yo odio esta sopa,*" he mutters, slipping into the Spanish he'd learned. It was his favorite tongue to speak in, with all the smacking and rolling sounds. "Puede estar loco, pero yo lo quiero.*"
He sighs. Then he pats his pocket. "¡Mierda!*" he hisses, trying hard not to let the doctor hear him. Why in the Void did he ever leave that behind?!
His demon voice answers for him. "You got distracted," snears the voice of his father. "That blond tchen hua-"
"Bi zuie." He snaps the word out loud, but Simon doesn't even blink. He reaches for the Cortex com. Maybe he can call Thorne, explain the situation to him, and hope to all Hells he finds it before the rest of the crew.

EOM
Cristo, yo odio esta sopa-Christ, I hate this soup.
Puede estar loco, pero yo lo quiero-It may be crazy, but I like it
¡Mierda! - Spanish version of go-se

I'm talking about geese.

GEEZER

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 8:11 PM (P)

Mal's Move:

Location: Galley

BOOK:"I already viewed what Simon had to say to me, and I gave the memory stick to Inara."

[MAL crosses the galley to INARA and holds out his hand. She softly places the memory stick on his palm. He raises it to his eye, and, after verifiying his identity, it plays the written message.]

MAL:(half to himself)"Wish he'd talked to me first. It's a risk, but his hand to play." (to the room at large)"Well, Doc's off on his on for a while, so try not to get banged up too much. You can all read your messages in a while.

(to RIVER) Mei-mei, your brother's gone for a while to get you some help. We'll all look out for you while he's gone. OK?"

[No visible reaction at all from RIVER]

"OK. It's at least two days to New Hokkaido and the quarters are all full, so 'less she wants to sleep on the couch downstairs we need someone to let MERZ double up. Not you, JAYNE!

There's some Blue Sun in the cooler, an' a couple bottles of tequila, so everybody help yourself, get a bite to eat, an' bag out. We'll get more organized tomorrow when we're not walkin' in our sleep. WASH, you just been sittin' 'round. Take the first watch."

[MAL looks for KAYLEE, wanting to give her the message stick, but she's already gone back to her engines. He sets it on the table, grabs a bottle, and starts looking for food.]

EOM

"Keep the Shiny side up"

SQUEE

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 9:02 PM (P)

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM

Quote:
Originally posted by Channain:
When Damon looks at her, showing her how weary he is, she shifts to his uninjured side and gently takes his arm. Ignoring Reynolds’ speechifying isn’t hard in the face of someone in need.

ROWAN: “Don’t you think you better sit down before you fall down?”

Damon lets Rowan lead him to a chair and carefully sits down. He half listens to the crew discussing Simon's disappearence and watches Rowan pull out various medical supplies.

OOC: That's it for now... can't think of much else to do at the moment

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

MERCEDESTROY

Thursday, March 18, 2004 12:36 AM (P)

LOCATION - DINING ROOM

MERZ sits quietly letting the conversation wash over her. She does not know this doctor SIMON and his fate is of no importance. However one thing does come through quite clearly.

Quote:
"Brink Helsing went with him."

i knew he was leaving, he asked me to go too . . . could damon have handled the cannon? probably . . . m’lady. bet i never hear that again. captain’s asking questions, sooner or later . . . no one has ever looked at me that way, can’t decide if i like it . . .what can i tell them? . . no, if he knew you it would be different . . .

Her thoughts are starting to circle like those *alachina buzzards again. what is it mercedes? malnutrition, dehydration, fatigue, insanity. Been a bad 2 months now and . . . can I get some rest

: Finally?

you have done survival before, you are not down to the dregs yet. stop whining girl and get a grip. . .

Quote:

"OK. It's at least two days to New Hokkaido and the quarters are all full, so 'less she wants to sleep on the couch downstairs we need someone to let MERZ double up. Not you, JAYNE!

Only the mention of her name brought her attention back to the present time/place. No matter, she will run a playback later, and catch everything she needs at her leisure. who’s JAYNE? ah the big one over there with the hopeful expression.

MERZ tentatively raises her hand hoping to get the Captain’s attention. “Begging your pardon Sir, but all I require is about 5 feet of deck and a place to stash my belongings. A bunk is . . . not necessary. And, may I ask, what should I call you sir?” am i crew or am i cargo, don't care either way . . 2 days peace “Oh, and pardon my presumption. If I might visit the engine room for a short time, I request permission to speak to Miss KAYLEE.”

EOM

*alachina = unholy (nepali)

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

GEEZER

Thursday, March 18, 2004 2:20 AM (P)

Thorne's Move

Location: Galley.

[THORNE listens to MAL handle the problem of the missing doctor and settle down the crew. Kid's got the right stuff, just a little rough around the edges. Thorne resolves to talk to MAL tomorrow and try to resolve the discomfort between them. Right now he needs to talk to someone else. INARA is standing alone near the aft stairs, and now's as good a time as any. THORNE walks to her side.]

THORNE: "The Captain's right. We could all use a good night's rest. Tomorrow evening, though, I would beg the favour of some time alone with you, if that is acceptable?"

EOM

"Keep the Shiny side up"

GEEZER

Thursday, March 18, 2004 2:37 AM (P)

MAL's Move:

Location: Galley

[As MAL lifts the tequila bottle to his lips, he sees MERZ tentatively raising her hand, like a school kid that needs to go potty.]

MERZ: “Begging your pardon Sir, but all I require is about 5 feet of deck and a place to stash my belongings. A bunk is . . . not necessary. And, may I ask, what should I call you sir?...Oh, and pardon my presumption. If I might visit the engine room for a short time, I request permission to speak to Miss KAYLEE.”

MAL: "My name is Malcolm Reynolds, an' none of my crew sleeps on the deck! We'll find a place for you to doss, don't worry. An' if you want'a talk to KAYLEE, go right ahead, this ain't no Purple-belly slaveship. Just come runnin' to that laser if I call. Now get some chow if you want, an' go see 'Miss KAYLEE'."

EOM.

G'nite

"Keep the Shiny side up"

MERCEDESTROY

Thursday, March 18, 2004 12:09 PM (P)

MERZ move

LOCATION - DINING ROOM
to ENGINE ROOM

i have dossed on the deck for as long as i can remember and i am not going soft now. But i won’t argue with you about it either

MERZ stands and carefully makes her way across the busy room to where ROWAN is minding DAMON. ROWAN seems to be handling things just fine and while DAMON looks far from well, he also does not look like death is breathin’ on his neck either. Satisfied that no one needs her right now, she makes her way to the corridor that KAYLEE vanished down and looks for the engine room. glad to get out of that crowd, i’ll see if there is any food in a minute. the ‘verse knows i can’t cook to save my life

Not too hard to find, what with KAYLEE humming and working in there. MERZ has never seen anything quite like it, somewhere halfway between a mechanic’s nightmare and the most audacious engineering she could possibly imagine. heropa would want to adopt this girl KAYLEE is tinkering with something and looks up brightly when MERZ knocks on the doorframe. “Oh Hi!. Can I help you?”

“Hello. No I am fine, I just had a couple of things I need to say to you. I’m MERZ by the way.”

KAYLEE stands and comes over hand outstretched, “KAYLEE. Pleased to meet you I’m sure. What’s up?”

MERZ shakes the offered hand, not sure if that is what is called for, but it appears to satisfy KAYLEE, who waits for her to respond. “First off, I was in the Valley when you came in and I heard Serenity long before I saw her.” MERZ actually smiles. “I wanted to meet whoever loves her, those engines sing!” KAYLEE beams.

“Second. I have a confession to make. DAMON did a find job with that cannon and he knew how to fix the sighting error, where I would have spent time firing and correcting. It was me who bungled up the wiring. I don’t know Fireflys at all, and this one . . . is special anyway. I would greatly appreciate it if you would take the time to show me what I did wrong sometime. Then I will never repeat the same error. Do you mind?”

EOM

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

ASTRIANA

Thursday, March 18, 2004 2:34 PM (P)

ZOE'S MOVE:
LOCATION: GALLEY
As...

ZOE see MAL's eye canvas the room, looking for KAYLEE, but she's already gone back to her engines. He sets the data stick on the table, grabs a bottle, and starts looking for food.

ZOE (to herself): Good to know we still think along the same lines - By rights, KAYLEE should be the next one to see that stick...

As she levers away from the wall and reaches for the data stick, ZOE hears MAL give MERZ permission to go talk to KAYLEE. MERZ leaves the galley, headed for the engine room, and ZOE tucks the data stick into her shirt pocket.

ZOE (to MAL): "I'll see that KAYLEE's the next one to see the doc's message, as soon as MERZ's done with her. Meantime..."

ZOE turns to BOOK, sitting at the table and looking for all the world like he thinks SIMON goin' missing is his fault. She puts a hand on his shoulder, offering what little comfort she can.

ZOE: "SHEPHERD, why don't you work some o' your magic in the kitchen? I imagine we got a mess o' folks all worked up and needin' a meal - and we got plenty o' rosemary."

ZOE smiles at BOOK and turns back to MAL.

ZOE: "Sir, I suggest we have MERZ settle into the empty crew quarters next to WASH's and my bunk. She'll be close to the bridge there, case we need her to man the laser. Shepherd already made up bunks for ROWAN an' THORNE, so that leaves DAMON here. Looks like it'd be best to have him bunked in the infirmary for now, wounded as he is."

As usual, ZOE puts her suggest forward and waits for MAL's decision before springing into action.

End Move.

OOC: Sorry this took me so long, folks! Lots of RL stuff takin' up my valuable RP time!

~A~

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

GEEZER

Thursday, March 18, 2004 2:56 PM (P)

Mal's Move:

Location: Galley

ZOE: "Sir, I suggest we have MERZ settle into the empty crew quarters next to WASH's and my bunk. She'll be close to the bridge there, case we need her to man the laser. Shepherd already made up bunks for ROWAN an' THORNE, so that leaves DAMON here. Looks like it'd be best to have him bunked in the infirmary for now, wounded as he is."

[MAL realizes he had completely forgotten the empty crew quarters. He really does need to get some sleep. Well, ZOE suggested it, so she gets to do it.]

MAL: "Se-niou! Forgot all about those quarters. After you take KAYLEE the message stick, why don't you show MERZ where it is, an' then get DAMON down to sickbay. I better get my head down 'fore I fall over.

[MAL takes a final swig of tequila, sets the bottle down, and heads for his bunk.]

EOM

Se-niou = Crap-piss

OOC: See what happens when I leave my Serenity floorplan at home?

"Keep the Shiny side up"

CHANNAIN

Thursday, March 18, 2004 4:57 PM (P)

Rowan's Move:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM

Slipping on purple rubber gloves, Rowan takes out some antiseptic and cleans the wound, gingerly touching the open area. Upon a quick inspection, she gives it a begrudgingly positive nod. All things considered, it could be a lot worse.

ROWAN: "Well, it doesn't look too awful. You managed to spring a couple stitches, though. I'll have to mend that."

Taking a syringe and a vial of local anesthetic out of the bag. She measures an exact dose, then expels a bit of it through the needle to eliminate air bubbles. Holding it upright, she leans in to meet Damon's gaze directly, hoping the sight of the needle will put him more in the mood to listen rather than give attitude.

ROWAN: "You strike me as the type who's not used to sitting still for very long, so I imagine you won't like hearing this, but unless you want this to turn completely septic and lead to your untimely demise, it would be in your best interests to try out the leisurely life for awhile."

EOM

We have art so as not to die of truth ~ Neitzsche
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

ASTRIANA

Thursday, March 18, 2004 5:44 PM (P)

ZOE's MOVE:
LOCATION - GALLEY to ENGINE ROOM

As MAL heads for his bunk, ZOE grins outright and heads down to the engine room.

ZOE arrives in the engine room just in time to hear MERZ's comment about KAYLEE's love of Serenity and her request to be shown the wiring error.

ZOE (to herself): "That outta put her in good with our girl."

She grins widely and pauses to make sure she's not interrupting.

ZOE: "KAYLEE, here's that data stick the doctor left. Why don't you have a look at your message while I show MERZ her bunk? Lemme know when you're finished, and I'll come get the stick - I'm a bit curious to know what the doc had to say to me that needed encryptin'."

ZOE hands the data stick to KAYLEE and turns to MERZ, looking to give KAYLEE some privacy.

ZOE: "MERZ, did you bring any gear aboard? We can pick it up on the way to your bunk. Follow me."

ZOE steps out of the engine room and waits for MERZ to follow.

Interim Location: Back Hall just outside Engine Room door

End Move.

~A~

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

CIARA

Thursday, March 18, 2004 6:00 PM (P)

Inara's move--short
sorry guys, been out of the loop.

THORNE: "The Captain's right. We could all use a good night's rest. Tomorrow evening, though, I would beg the favour of some time alone with you, if that is acceptable?"

Inara lowers her lashes demurely, soft fans of black against her newly-pinkened cheeks.

You would be most welcome, Mr. Thorne. I should be ready to recieve you in my shuttle say...tomorrow, late afternoon? I fear we may need that much rest to recover from today. Inara smiles sweetly, reaching to clasp Thorne's hand as she passes.

Until tommorow then.

Inara glances toward Mal as he leaves the room. She turns and follows, grabbing two small protein bars from the sideboard as she passes. Determined to speak to him...about what, she's not quite sure yet.

Inara finds Mal wending is slow way down the hall toward his bunk, and stops him just outside his door.

INARA
"Mal....can we speak?" Inara calls. Mal turns to look at her with a weary expression. Inara steps back, smoothing her dress, realizing for the first time she still looks a bit dishevelled and smells a bit like a brewery from her escapades in the common room. Holding a protein bar out to Mal as she begins to speak:

"Do you know what Simon's off to do, Mal? Shepherd gave me the meme stick, but I never got a chance to read it. I truly worry for River...apparently I'm to care for her, but I'm not sure how she'll be without her brother...

much is left unsaid in Inara's eyes....Mal can read her concerns there...what are they to do with River if Simon never returns?

End Inara's turn

Just a humble supplicant in service to all things Joss

SQUEE

Thursday, March 18, 2004 6:39 PM (P)

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM

Quote:
Originally posted by Geezer:
MAL: "My name is Malcolm Reynolds, an' none of my crew sleeps on the deck! We'll find a place for you to doss, don't worry. An' if you want'a talk to KAYLEE, go right ahead, this ain't no Purple-belly slaveship. Just come runnin' to that laser if I call. Now get some chow if you want, an' go see 'Miss KAYLEE'."

Several thoughts tumble through Damon's mind as he digests this bit of information from the captain. Crew? How did we go from being bun tien-shung de ee-duai-ro strays to crew?
He doesn't say anything; being crew would probably mean coin at some point. More coin is always a good thing.

Zoe: "Sir, I suggest we have MERZ settle into the empty crew quarters next to WASH's and my bunk. She'll be close to the bridge there, case we need her to man the laser. Shepherd already made up bunks for ROWAN an' THORNE, so that leaves DAMON here. Looks like it'd be best to have him bunked in the infirmary for now, wounded as he is."

Jien tah duh guay. I'd sooner choose the floor of the cargo bay.

Mal: "Se-niou! Forgot all about those quarters. After you take KAYLEE the message stick, why don't you show MERZ where it is, an' then get DAMON down to sickbay. I better get my head down 'fore I fall over.

Mal turns to leave and Damon quickly speaks up before he gets too far.

"If its all the same to you, I'd prefer to sleep in the shuttle."

Mal nods. "Can't say I blame you, wouldn't want to sleep in there my own self."

Damon turns his attention back to Rowan who now has a pair of purple gloves on.

ROWAN: "Well, it doesn't look too awful. You managed to spring a couple stitches, though. I'll have to mend that."

She takes a syringe and a vial of local anesthetic out of the bag. She measures an exact dose, then expels a bit of it through the needle to eliminate air bubbles. Holding it upright, she leans in to meet Damon's gaze directly.

Damon tenses up the moment the needle leaves the bag, glaring at it like it was a poisonous snake. He relaxes a little when he sees her fill it with anesthetic but still doesn't look too happy with it.

ROWAN: "You strike me as the type who's not used to sitting still for very long, so I imagine you won't like hearing this, but unless you want this to turn completely septic and lead to your untimely demise, it would be in your best interests to try out the leisurely life for awhile."

Leisurely life? The concept was as strange to him as the sky to a fish. She's damn right I don't sit still for long. Life doesn't slow down just because you get injured. You get beat up by a guard, you dust yourself off and go back to work. You try to escape and break your arm, you dust youself off and get back to work. You get shot in the leg for trying again, you close it up and go back to work. And you don't close it with no stitches either. Just cuz I'm free doesn't mean I can go soft. Hell, spending the morning in a bar nearly got me caught this morning. I have coin to make and Feds to avoid and I'm not going to get either of those things done sitting on my ass.

Damon gives Rowan a hard look. "Leisurely lives are for those who can afford them. How about we forget the stitches and just put a hot knife to it so I can continue earning my keep?"

Jien tah duh guay = like hell

OOC: Geezer, I assume that Damon using the spare shuttle isn't a problem, so I had Mal answer for you. Hope that flies.

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

GEEZER

Thursday, March 18, 2004 7:02 PM (P)

Mal's Move

Location:Upper Passageway

[The events of the day have suddenly hit MAL like a blackjack. It takes a herculean effort just to stop and turn when INARA calls his name]

INARA: "Do you know what Simon's off to do, Mal? Shepherd gave me the meme stick, but I never got a chance to read it. I truly worry for River...apparently I'm to care for her, but I'm not sure how she'll be without her brother...

[Even half-asleep, MAL can read INARA's concern. Too tired to think of a caustic comment, he replies.]

MAL: "Said he's on the trail of a cure for RIVER. Not much detail. May get in touch later. And RIVER? I don't know, 'NARA. I reckon as we'll all be lookin' out for her. She didn't seem too shook when she heard SIMON's gone, but is that a good or a bad thing? See about gettin' her bedded down for now, please, an' we'll talk on it tomorrow. You should prob'ly get some rest too. G'nite now."

[MAL turns away and staggers to his quarters, half-falling down the ladder. Still fully dressed, he collapses onto the bed, asleep before he stops bouncing.]

EOM

"Keep the Shiny side up"

RAVENWHYTEWING

Thursday, March 18, 2004 7:06 PM (P)

Slights move:
Slight goes on to the Cortex. He logs in under the special encoding he'd created, long ago. He finds Serenity, and is pleased to see the Alliance ships only sent one message, the typical log of an unauthorized vessel. With simple ease, he erases the mention of it. Serenity shouldn't show up on Alliance radar for a while.
Slight hacks through, and sends a message to Serenity. He leaves it in Blue Sun coding, so that only Thorne will be able to open it. "Agent Slight, reporting to Thorne. All is well. Simon Tam is unboard with me, but quite focused, and not very social at the moment. There's," Slight allows a proud smile, "no mention of an unauthorized Firefly-class in Hera." He pauses, not sure what else to say. "To all of the crew, I salute you on exceptional flying and shooting. Well done. Reply to this message with a return date, if you'd like to pick up your wayward doctor. If not, and with Captain Reynolds permission, I can have us off-planet with a day."
Slight ends the recording, then adds two attachments. One to Thorne, explaining about the sticky, and it's current place of hiding. He starts a second one to Merz, but pauses. What in the world can he say? He decides. "When we meet again, m'lady," he says, unconciously touching the screen with his hand, "There is much I would like to discuss. I will return."
He sends his emblem, a merlin with razor wings.

Slight closes the message, touching the screen with a gesture that's almost a carress. "Until we meet again," he whispers, and settles back for the long ride there.

I'm talking about geese.

CHANNAIN

Thursday, March 18, 2004 8:01 PM (P)

Rowan's Move:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM

Forget stitches and utilize a time-honored tradition of cauterizing a wound like they were stuck on some battlefield on Earth that was? Rowan answered that with a glare.

ROWAN: "Don't tempt me."

Noticing his apprehension - actually the absolute fear in his eyes - she holds back before starting to numb the area.

ROWAN: "I'm actually pretty good at this. Even with one eye, I never miss a target. If you want something to put you under, though, you're entitled to it."

EOM

We have art so as not to die of truth ~ Neitzsche
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

MANIACNUMBERONE

Thursday, March 18, 2004 8:30 PM (P)

Book's Move

LOCATION - Galley

Book rises from the table and goes into the back alcove. Out of site of everyone for a moment, he goes over Simon's message again in his mind, with worry etched on his face. If the doctor gets what he thinks he may, things are going to change very soon for River... and for the rest of us as well.

Assorted foodstuffs in his arms, Book re-emerges from the pantry alcove and goes to the main counter to deposit the load. "I forget how good it is to cook for a large group sometimes." Book says smilingly, as he looks at all the food, the likes of which they haven't had in a while. "Back at the abbey, we often got the chance to cook for all of the brethren.'

Book looks up at the emptying galley, about to tell the story of when one of the brethren accidentally dumped a large jar of olive oil onto his head. They'll be back when they start to smell this, he thinks.

Book, suddenly a one-man whirlwind of activity, begins preparing the various foodstuffs, and soon has a mass of steam and delicious smells wafting throughout the ship.

EM

SQUEE

Thursday, March 18, 2004 8:31 PM (P)

LOCATION - DINING ROOM

Quote:
Originally posted by Channain:
ROWAN: "Don't tempt me."

Noticing his apprehension - actually the absolute fear in his eyes - she holds back before starting to numb the area.

ROWAN: "I'm actually pretty good at this. Even with one eye, I never miss a target. If you want something to put you under, though, you're entitled to it."

Damon shakes his head. "I don't mind needles as long as I approve of what's in them. Do whatever it is you think you should do, but if it opens again, I'm closing it my way. Thing's not worth the hassel."

An idea occurs to him and he stops her hand before she injects him. "I got a better idea. How about you give me some of the magic the doctor had me on before instead. That'll everything quite for a few hours at least."

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

BOOMERGOODHEART

Thursday, March 18, 2004 8:43 PM (P)

Kaylee's Move
Location: Engine Room

When the blonde woman from the bridge comes into her engine room, and asks to be shown what she'd missed, Kaylee had to smile to herself.

"No problem...Merz, was it? I'll be happy ta show my girl to ya. Get some rest 'n we'll talk again later."

Zoe comes to the doorway and hands Kaylee Simon's memory stick.

"Thanks, Zoe. Whoever's next in line for this thing might hafta wait a bit. Don't know as I'm in tha mood ta hear what th' doctor hasta say righ' now."

Kaylee tucks the stick into one of the many pockets on her jumpsuit and watches the two women walk away. With a small sigh, she turns to crawl into her hammock where she falls asleep instantly.

End Move

BoomerGoodheart
"I love my Captain."

GEEZER

Thursday, March 18, 2004 10:44 PM (P)

Thorne's Move:

Location: Galley/Engine room/Quarters

INARA: "You would be most welcome, Mr. Thorne. I should be ready to recieve you in my shuttle say...tomorrow, late afternoon? I fear we may need that much rest to recover from today.
Until tommorow then.

[THORNE is not sleepy at all. He's too keyed up from the fight and the anticipation of tomorrow. Could use some food, though. The Preacher has something going that smells pretty good. He sips on the tequila until BOOK starts to spoon up a bowl, then walks over and picks it up.]

THORNE: "If it's all right with you, I'll take this down to our engineer, and come back for some myself.

[At BOOK's nod, he stuffs a spoon in his pocket, grabs a Blue Sun to go with the stew, and heads for KAYLEE's domain. He smiles as he sees her already asleep in her hammock.]

THORNE: "You sleep, little KAYLEE-girl. You did real good today. Daddy'd be right proud of you."

[KAYLEE smiles in her sleep. THORNE can't see any reason to return to the galley, since he already has a bowl of stew, so he heads to his quarters to eat. Five minutes later the half-empty bowl is left on a side table, and he is asleep, dreaming of INARA.]

EOM

"Keep the Shiny side up"

CHANNAIN

Thursday, March 18, 2004 10:47 PM (P)

Rowan's Move:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM
------------------------------
DAMON: How about you give me some of the magic the doctor had me on before instead.
------------------------------

ROWAN: "That's assuming I know what he gave you, which I don't. There's no easy way to do this, xiâo dì dì, but it does need doing."

He's so young, still so convinced he's immortal, even when the wound is already bordering on infection. Had she ever been that impetuous? Probably - in fact probably worse. She didn't realize the enormity of what they were doing, not until the end.
------------------------------
FLASHBACK

It was over. The capital itself was being overrun - assault troops were at their door again and they would shoot to kill this time. The Alliance had had its fill.

He turned to her, showing his unabiding love for her with the most intense stare she had ever seen. Then his eyes switched to a point somewhere behind her and he nodded once. "Take her."

Her eyes widened as she realized what he meant. The bodyguard's large came around her from behind and a cloth was pressed to her mouth. She breathed in something horrible, struggled to break free. His eyes never left her, and as the darkness folded in around her, she saw the sorrow mingle with his determination to sacrifice himself. For her.
------------------------------
ROWAN to herself: Sonofabitch already decided to die for me. Why couldn't he have tried to live instead? He could have tried.

Rowan held Damon's gaze with even more determination than before.

ROWAN: "If you think your life's not worth any hassle, I will stop - I have exactly no time for an obstinate sonuvabitch. But when you wake up with a temperature of a hundred and six and start hallucinating about giant purple spiders, you don't get to come running to me, dong ma?"

EOM

We have art so as not to die of truth ~ Neitzsche
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

SQUEE

Thursday, March 18, 2004 11:31 PM (P)

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM

Rowan holds Damon's gaze with even more determination than before.

ROWAN: "If you think your life's not worth any hassle, I will stop - I have exactly no time for an obstinate sonuvabitch. But when you wake up with a temperature of a hundred and six and start hallucinating about giant purple spiders, you don't get to come running to me, dong ma?"

Damon's dark eyes harden into a look of dead seriousness that none of the others have seen in him. He speaks calmly, making sure that his words are understood. "Don't ever make the mistake of thinking that I don't know what my life is worth. My life is worth a lot of hassel. I said the stitches aren't worth the hassel. But if you don't have time for them then I'm perfetly happy to take care of myself."

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

CHANNAIN

Friday, March 19, 2004 12:15 AM (P)

Rowan's Move:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM

Feeling her mouth curve in a smile - much the same way Xiang's once did when she gave him a piece of her mind - Rowan nods in satisfaction.

ROWAN: "You've got spunk - all right then. You keep that shirt up and try not to squirm. Wouldn't want to stick you any more than I have to."

Quickly securing her hair in the collar of her shirt, Rowan bends down and focuses on the area around the small open section of the wound. Damon twitches on the first prick of the needle, but less on the second until finally he's perfectly still. Finished, she lays the syringe aside and takes up the sucher kit; a curved needle with sturdy black silk and two clamps.

ROWAN (mostly to herself): "Now, so long as I don't sew my glove to your gut, it'll all be shiny."

Hearing Damon's intake of breath, she smiles slyly and begins.

EOM

We have art so as not to die of truth ~ Neitzsche
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

MERCEDESTROY

Friday, March 19, 2004 12:22 AM (P)

LOCATION - TRAVELING

Quote:
ZOE: "MERZ, did you bring any gear aboard? We can pick it up on the way to your bunk. Follow me."

MERZ followed her into the hallway. “You are Zoe, yes? My baggage is still in the cargo area. I would appreciate getting it stowed at least. Do you arm aboard or should I stow my sidearm as well? And then . . ” she inhaled deeply “dinner?”

EOM

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

ASTRIANA

Friday, March 19, 2004 12:49 AM (P)

ZOE'S MOVE:
LOCATION - TRAVELING

ZOE stomach grumbles a little at the smell of whatever delicious concoction the Shepherd is preparing in the galley. She turns to MERZ and smiles.

ZOE: "Yes, I'm ZOE. That sounds like a good plan. I'll introduce you to the rest o' the crew soon's we get back to the dinin' room. As far as arming, we generally don't arm when we're on board, so I'd suggest stowin' your sidearm for the time bein'. Believe me, if it's needed, you'll know it."

They enter the cargo bay and MERZ picks up her gear, then they continue up to the aft hall to the crew quarters. As they walk, ZOE talks.

ZOE: "You were a pretty good shot against those Feds - steady, too. Where'd you come by a skill like that?"

End Move.

~A~

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

MERCEDESTROY

Friday, March 19, 2004 1:09 AM (P)

MERZ Move

LOCATION – TRAVELING

Quote:
ZOE: "You were a pretty good shot against those Feds - steady, too. Where'd you come by a skill like that?"

“Honestly Zoe. I come by it honestly.” i am just going to have to tell someone something, or it just is not going to stop

MERZ can tell ZOE is just not going to accept that response, and makes a quick decision. As ZOE opens up to, probably, demand more, MERZ holds up her hand. She glances around – they have moved away from the dining area where most of the crew/hitchers are currently located. Listening, she can’t hear anyone close enough to listen to the two of them talk.

“OK. Fair enough. This really is not something I want to discuss, but you have the right to know this. Yes, I have a military background. No, you have no need to know where. Yes, I am no danger to you in and of myself.” She stops for a moment and rubs her eyes. “I have dishonored myself in the worst way I could have chosen and I had no choice. I am a deserter. But, I am not your enemy. I am not an enemy of Serenity or Captain Reynolds or anyone else present or recently departed. I am not an agent. I am not a plant.” She sighs. “If you look I am sure there is a reward for me out there somewhere, and I have not the slightest clue what the story would be. I have not cared to look. And now my fate is in your hands.”

She puts her hands on her hips and looks ZOE square in the eyes. “So, please either just kill me or feed me. I’m too tired for games.”

EOM

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

ASTRIANA

Friday, March 19, 2004 1:38 AM (P)

ZOE'S MOVE:
LOCATION: CARGO BAY

ZOE crosses her arms over her chest as she listens to MERZ's explanation. When MERZ winds down, ZOE gives her an understanding look.

ZOE: "You might've noticed we got no lack o' people on this boat who ain't lookin' ta have their past brought up or discussed in committee. Don't think they're like to ask many questions - an' those few that would usually only do if ya show a need to talk. That'd be KAYLEE, INARA, and SHEPHERD BOOK. Folks lookin' to stay under the radar tend not to pry. Long as you're not a danger to the ship an' crew, you might could make a place for yourself here. 'Course, Cap'n has the final say in those things."

ZOE uncrosses her arms and relaxes her stance.

ZOE: "Now let's see 'bout gettin' you settled and see what the Shepherd's put on for dinner."

She turns and heads up the aft stairs to the catwalk, leading MERZ to the empty bunk next to her and WASH.

ZOE: "This'll be your place. WASH an' I are right next door, an' it's close to the bridge, should we need your hand on that laser. Galley's right through there."

ZOE points down the hall toward the source of the delicious smells.

ZOE: "I'll let you settle in. Come join us when you're ready - and maybe you'll give me a lesson or two on that cannon later."

Sensing MERZ's need for privacy, ZOE opens the door to the empty quarters, then nods to MERZ as she heads back down to the galley.

End Move.

~A~

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

SQUEE

Friday, March 19, 2004 1:40 AM (P)

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM

Quote:
ROWAN to DAMON: "You've got spunk - all right then. You keep that shirt up and try not to squirm. Wouldn't want to stick you any more than I have to."

Satisfied that they have come to an understanding, Damon leans back in his chair with his right leg stretched out in front of him to give Rowan plenty of elbow space. He lifts up his shirt just enough to be out of her way, trying to keep as many scars covered as possible.

Not long after the first two injections, his wound goes numb- well, mostly. The infected tissue doesn't completely numb over, leaving a little sesation that is more weird than painful.

ROWAN (mostly to herself): "Now, so long as I don't sew my glove to your gut, it'll all be shiny."

Damon draws a breath to ask her if she's done this before, but stops when he realizes that she's kidding. He lets his gaze wander the galley as she starts sewing up his wound, noticing the purple and blue flowers that could only be Kaylee's work. His stomache growls angrily at being denied the wonderful smelling food coming from the kitchen. He turns to see Book busy behind the stove. River stands near him, completely fasinated by what he's doing.

"Hey, do you know what's up with her?" he asks Rowan softly.

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

CHANNAIN

Friday, March 19, 2004 2:14 AM (P)

Rowan's Move:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM

The stitching goes pretty smoothly. Making a note to get Damon into the infirmary to get him an antibiotic and check and make sure the wound is healing, she works the first stitch, then starts the other.

Quote:
DAMON (softly): "Hey, do you know what's up with her?"

Glancing up as she sets the initial knot, Rowan follows his gaze and sees River watching Book work his culinary ministry the way small children watch wind up toys. Thinking of the girl's blithe reference to nine-ball when they hadn't even met, how she commented on Ru when Rowan had only been thinking of him, and how she seemed to know the details of that weird ass dream, she can only shrugs with a shake of her head.

ROWAN (softly): "Well, if I had to guess, I'd almost say she's a reader. We heard rumors about them - scientifically engineered by Blue Sun with Alliance funding. Couldn't prove it, though, so nothing was ever released about it. I never believed it, personally."

Glancing up again as she finishes, she catches River's eyes staring right at her. The girl gives her a slow, mysterious smile that is at once charming and chilling.

ROWAN (softly): "But I'm starting to."

EOM

We have art so as not to die of truth ~ Neitzsche
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

SQUEE

Friday, March 19, 2004 2:54 AM (P)

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM

Quote:
Originally posted by Channain:
ROWAN (softly): "Well, if I had to guess, I'd almost say she's a reader. We heard rumors about them - scientifically engineered by Blue Sun with Alliance funding. Couldn't prove it, though, so nothing was ever released about it. I never believed it, personally."

ROWAN (softly): "But I'm starting to."

Damon looks down at Rowan. "Reader? You mean psychic?"

She nods.

Damon glances up at River uneasily and then looks away, figeting with the hem of his shirt. He doesn't like the idea of anyone being able to 'read' him. In fact, he really doesn't like it, though he can't think of a specific reason why.

He looks down to see Rowan starting on her third stitch. "How many more of those am I going to need?"

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

MERCEDESTROY

Friday, March 19, 2004 5:07 AM (P)

LOCATION - MERZ DORM

MERZ enters the empty quarters and shuts the door behind her. Luxury indeed; she has a door. And a bunk. And a piece of furniture. Just for a moment, MERZ sits carefully in the absolute middle of the bed. She bounces a little – this is nice. Then she shakes her head old girl, you will get soft in the head and in the behind, if you give in to this temptation

Merz stows her gear under the bunk and her gun under the pillow. She still has a little water left in a demijohn in her pack and uses it to wipe the worst of the dust and dirt from her face and hands. Fetching a hairbrush (considerably the worse for wear) from her pack she removes her hat, unbraids her hair and brushes the worst of the tangles and dust from it before carefully braiding it again. Unbound it falls clear to the bunk. She puts her shades on the pillow, hesitates for a second and then adds the hat. A clothes brush does the best it can with her only shipsuit and she is as ready as she is going to be for (more or less) polite company in the dining room. There is a small mirror and she checks herself out before leaving. Wiping just one more smudge from her nose, MERZ goes in to eat.

There are people in the room, most noticeably ROWAN who is finishing up repairing DAMON, and another girl who is watching. She is young, pretty and . . . rather intense. But she is paying MERZ no mind, and MERZ returns the favor. Captain Reynolds is nowhere to be found and neither is the other gentleman. The one she has not yet met. The one with the command voice.

The food is on the stove and a pile of bowls and spoons on the counter. MERZ helps herself to a generous portion and retires to a table by herself to enjoy it. She has no table manners to speak of and gradually goes from a careful spoonful at a time, to what can only be described as ‘shoveling’. For someone of her height and size, she puts away an amazing amount of dinner. well, maybe i can catch a break. zoe'll tell captain reynolds what he needs to know and in the mean time i have - all this. so this is what content feels like Finding nothing in the cooler that is not alcoholic, she finds a tumbler, fills and drains it several times with simple water. Followed as can be expected by a belch of epic proportions. MERZ shrugs to the room at large. “Sorry”. The whole procedure has taken maybe ten minutes at most.

EOM

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

MANIACNUMBERONE

Friday, March 19, 2004 9:14 AM (P)

Book's Move
LOCATION - GALLEY

Book finishes cooking and watches as people start to eye the cookpot. He laughs and tells the room that the food is done. Taking a few bowls, he quickly fills them, gives one to River standing right next to him, and takes the other two over to Rowan and Damon. "Ready when you are."

Going back to the stove, Book fills another bowl for himself and goes to sit at the table. "I am reminded of a time back at the Abbey, when one of the brethren, nervous at his first attempt to give a sermon, took a shot of vodka before beginning to speak. He made quite a mess of things, as I recall. He was giving his sermon about David, and when he got to the part about David getting hit by a rock and being knocked off his donkey, instead..." Book pauses and looks around the room with a mischievious look on his face. "...he said David got stoned off his ass."

EM

GEEZER

Friday, March 19, 2004 2:03 PM (P)

Mal’s Move

Location: His Bunk

[MAL tosses in his sleep. He dreams]

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

Mal has been out working in the fields all day. This year’s planting of catalyzers is coming along fine. Looks like it’ll be a good crop. The stalks are already bowing under the weight of the shiny metal blossoms. He can probably start a harvest of early catalyzers for the small ship market within a week.

The valley is beautiful at sunset, the last rays of light glinting off the Alliance fighters strafing in the distance. As he gazes at his homestead, Inara calls from the porch. “Dinner’s ready, sweetheart. Come and wash up.”

Mal walks back to the house, passing the rusting Firefly up on blocks in the yard, and the men lined up at the front door. He stops to wash his hands and face in the basin outside the kitchen door. Drying off with with a piece of flour sack, he enters the kitchen and sits down at the table. The interior of the house is one big room. The kitchen side has rough bare board walls and floor, with plain but sturdy furniture and a wood-burning stove. The parlor side is different. Wainscoting and crimson hangings adorn the plastered walls. Erotic art hangs from the picture rail. The parquet floor is covered in beautifully woven rugs. Fine sofas and chairs upholstered in red velvet beckon one to sit. A strange man does sit on one of the sofas.

Inara, dressed in a low-cut red ball gown, is standing at the stove. She ladles up a bowl of stew, plops a spoon in in, and sets it in front of Mal. A pitcher of cider and a hot loaf of homemade bread are already on the table. She pours him a mug of cider. “ Here you are darling. Please go ahead, I’ve already eaten.”

As Mal digs in to the delicious horsemeat stew, she goes to the other side of the room, takes the stranger’s hand, and leads him to the bedroom. The door closes and soon sounds of lovemaking can be heard. A couple of minutes later they emerge arm in arm. “…Oh, no. It was my pleasure, sir.” Inara escorts the man to the back door. “Thank you, and please come again.” As the door closes, she turns to Mal.

“How was your day, honey?

‘The catalizers are comin’ along real well. Looks like a bumper crop. What with the war an’ all, the market’s good this year. Should turn a tidy profit. How about you?”

‘Well, that’s…” She pulls a pad from her pocket and looks at it, “a hundred and forty eight so far today, and I have a couple of hours yet to go. Don’t wait up for me, dearest, but leave the light on.”

“Alright, sweet. You think you’ll be able to take a break here soon?

‘Soon as I don’t have a line outside the door, I promise, we’ll have some time for ourselves.”

She checks the clock in the parlor, and bends to kiss Mal on the cheek. “Well, back to work, love.”

Returning to the parlor, she shouts, “Next!” and the front door opens to admit another man.

Suddenly Mal’s viewpoint soars through the ceiling into the sky. He can see the line of men extending from the door to the horizon. As he gets higher, he sees it stretching out of the valley, and then branching into three. Each of these lines forks again and again. Some go to cities and towns around the planet. Others go to spaceports, where a constant stream of ships brings more and more men from all over the ‘verse.

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

[Mal awakens with his heart pounding, sitting bolt upright. He can’t remember what he dreamed, but it was frightening. Must have been about the war. Gotta lay off that tequila when he’s tired. He lays back down and tries to sleep.]

"Keep the Shiny side up"

ASTRIANA

Friday, March 19, 2004 2:08 PM (P)

ZOE'S MOVE:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM/GALLEY

ZOE enters the galley just in time for BOOK to be handing out bowls of steaming hot food. She takes a bowl for herself, and one for WASH, picks up a couple of spoons and napkins, and heads to the bridge, chuckling at the tail end of the Shepherd's story.

ZOE (to herself): "Sure has a lot o' funny stories for a Shepherd."

LOCATION - BRIDGE

ZOE walks onto the bridge and sees her husband sitting at his accustomed post, looking out at the stars. Carefully placing the bowls, spoons, and napkins where they won't be disturbed, she lays her hand on WASH's shoulder and looks out into the black. With a slow, deep breath, she relaxes, releasing some of the tension of the last couple of hours... no days. She runs her fingers through the hair of the wonderful man she's chosen to share this life with, drinking in the feeling of home he brings.

End Move.

~A~

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

RAVENWHYTEWING

Friday, March 19, 2004 3:02 PM (P)

Wash looks up to see Zoe wandering in, with two plates of chow. With a grumble more audible than the engines, Wash realizes how hungry he is.
Zoe puts the plates down on the console, and puts her hand on his shoulder. Automatically, he reaches up and places a hand over hers. As she moves it up to run her fingers through his hair, he leans into it, sighing heavily. "Xei-xei, bao bei," he whispers, for the first time totally relaxed since this damn trip started.
Wash leads Zoe around with his hand, so that she can sit on his lap. He wraps his arms around her as she leans her head on his shoulder. For now, they can both easily relax.

EOM

I'm talking about geese.

CIARA

Friday, March 19, 2004 4:08 PM (P)

Inara's turn

LOCATION: SEVERAL PLACES.

MAL: "Said he's on the trail of a cure for RIVER. Not much detail. May get in touch later. And RIVER? I don't know, 'NARA. I reckon as we'll all be lookin' out for her. She didn't seem too shook when she heard SIMON's gone, but is that a good or a bad thing? See about gettin' her bedded down for now, please, an' we'll talk on it tomorrow. You should prob'ly get some rest too. G'nite now."

Inara nods to Mal--seeing the mantle of exhaustion pushing at his shoulders. He kicks open the door to his bunk and begins to descend. Inara turns and heads back to the dining room, to fetch some of whatever's smelling so good, and retires to her shuttle.

Entering her shuttle, Inara sets the warm stoneware bowl on her low table and reaches her arms up in a slow stretch. Taking the remaining pins from her hair, she removes her shift and changes into a robe. Making herself comfortable, Inara takes a few bites of Book's fine stew, then sets the bowl aside again. Before she's even settled back, her eyes are closed and her breathing is slow and heavy.

End Inara's turn

Just a humble supplicant in service to all things Joss

CHANNAIN

Friday, March 19, 2004 4:35 PM (P)

Rowan's Move:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM

Quote:
Damon looks down to see Rowan starting on her third stitch.

DAMON: "How many more of those am I going to need?"

With the tip of her tongue sticking out slightly, Rowan makes quick work of the third and final stitch, and looks up before clipping the ends.

ROWAN: "I was just getting the hang of this. Sure you don't want one more?"

Seeing Damon's glare, she smiles and gives him an awkward wink - she's a right-side winker normally - before setting down the clamp in favor of medical scissors. Snipping off the silk, she sits back to admire her work.

ROWAN: "A fine piece of knitting, if I do say so myself. Heck, now I hope you do go do yourself a harm so I can get a little more practice in."

Seeing his ears turn red just before he's about to protest and go on about that ludicrous hot knife business again, she gives a placating nod while putting the instruments away.

ROWAN: "Yeah, yeah, I know (lowers her voice in a tough-guy Damon imitation) 'I can fix it my own self'. Kids today, I tell ya."

Straightening again, she takes a long deep breath of the amazing aroma of whatever Book's making in the kitchen with his garlic, rosemary and basil. No sooner does her mouth literally begin to water, than the Shepherd is walking over with two bowls full of his ingenious concoction.

Quote:
BOOK: "Ready when you are."

Smiling gratefully, Rowan snaps the gloves off and shares a smile with Book before he strides away again. Wondering at how a preacher gained the bearing of a king, she lets Damon choose a bowl first, then takes the other. After a taste, her eyes roll in deepest appreciation while Book settles himself down at the table employs his sermon-making voice, gaining all the attention in the room.

Quote:
BOOK: "...he said David got stoned off his ass."

Laughing appreciatively, Rowan takes another spoonful and savors.

ROWAN: "Shepherd, you have definitely got the gift. If I wasn't any the wiser, I'd marry you just for your skills in the kitchen."

She raises her spoon to him and continues to eat, wondering when she's ever felt quite so at home, on a ship or anywhere. Eyeing the table where Book is sitting, she considers a few measurements in her head and figures the holo-billiards system will work nicely, once everyone's bunked down. Even Damon is likely to collapse soon, albeit with protests bodering on the manner of a two-year old. I'm not tired...*YAWN* I don' wanna go to bed.

EOM

We have art so as not to die of truth ~ Neitzsche
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

GEEZER

Friday, March 19, 2004 5:34 PM (P)

Thorne’s Move

Location: His Quarters

[Thorne sleeps peacefully. It’s been a good day, and tomorrow promises to be better. Although he is asleep, his empathic ability is working overtime. He dreams.]

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

The coach arrives at the opera house. A footman in knee breeches and powdered wig opens the door. Thorne emerges, handsome in Alliance dress purple. The severe, almost black color of the uniform is interrupted only by the rows of service ribbons and decorations on the left breast. He steps from the coach and turns to offer his hand to Inara. She takes it and descends the step, her white silk dress rustling slightly. A tiara of sapphires and diamonds adorns her elaborate coiffure. Matching earrings and necklace shine against her skin. Long white gloves cover her arms to the elbow.

Inara and Thorne walk arm in arm to the opera house door. Kaylee and River, dressed as handmaidens, strew their path with rose petals. Jayne, in a janitor’s coverall, follows with a broom to sweep them up. Rowan and Damon, also in Alliance uniform, snap to attention and pull open the double doors. Inside, Merz, in a 1930’s usherette uniform, takes the tickets that Thorne proffers. They are warmly greeted by Book, who wears white tie and tails. He escorts them through the ornate, empty, lobby to their box, uncorks the chilled bottle of champagne, and departs.

They are the only people in the theater until the orchestra files into the pit. Simon Tam walks to the podium and raises his baton. The houselights dim as the overture begins. Swept up in the music, it seems to them only a moment until the curtain parts and the performance begins. It is a series of pas de deux, two dancers on the bare stage. Nijinsky dances with Fonteyn, Barishnikov with Mei Lin. As pair after pair perform, Inara and Thorne sip champagne and watch, enraptured.

Another couple take the stage, dancing around a straightback chair set in the center of a spotlight beam. Slowly, as they dance closer to each other, their forms change, until they are recognizable as Zoë and Wash. Now their clothes disappear and they are dancing naked. Now they’re…well, they’re not exactly dancing anymore, but the chair is still involved.

Thorne turns to Inara, who smiles at him suggestively. He draws the curtains and reaches for her…as a buzzer sounds.

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

[A buzzer? It’s the comm, flashing to indicate he’s received a wave. Who the F*** would call him here? And why right now? Damning the caller to the same hell as that to which Coleridge had condemned his ‘person from Porlock’, Thorne switches off the alarm and tries to go back to sleep.]

"Keep the Shiny side up"

BOOMERGOODHEART

Friday, March 19, 2004 6:38 PM (P)

Kaylee's Move
Location: The Heaven & Hell of the Mind

Pictures flash across Kaylee's subconscious; moving memories in a flip book...

*click!* She is 8, and her dad is lifting her high into the air. She's just fixed a piece of equipment that's been vexing him for days now. She laughs down at him...could anything be better than being loved?

*click!* She is 15 and in the middle of her first serious love. The boy works on a neighboring farm, and is 16. The night is hot & dry; young, sweaty bodies slide together as the allusions of youth pass on amidst the pleasures of adulthood.

*click!* She is 17 and the same young man is yelling that she's a freak. He doesn't want to see her ever again. Her eyes well with tears as her fragile heart hardens.

*click!* A man she's never seen before is offering her a job. Who knew that a somewhat satisfying encounter could lead to a life away from this rock?

*click!* Shot in the stomach. The Captain & Simon yelling. Pain.

*click!* Simon kissing the daylights out of her. Adult love at it's strongest. Simon fading from her sight.

She begins to stir restlessly.

*click!* The Captain yelling at her.

*click!* The crew dying around her. Too slow.

*click!* Strapped to a chair. Simon wearing Blue Gloves. Her brain open.

*click!* River staring. Her turn for insanity.

*click!* Blackness.

The young woman with the heart of a child crys in her sleep.

End Move

BoomerGoodheart
"I love my Captain."

SQUEE

Friday, March 19, 2004 6:54 PM (P)

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM

Damon lowers his shirt as Rowan begins to put her medical suplies away. He sits up as Book approaches with two bowls of food and takes the nearest one as soon as it comes within reach. He blows on the first bite a couple times, but it isn't long before he's inhaling the wonderful contents of his bowl like tomorrow will never come.

He half listens to Rowan and Book, too occupied to busy himself with conversation and too tired to get jokes. He finishes his bowl before they are even half way through with theirs and gets up to get another.

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

RAVENWHYTEWING

Saturday, March 20, 2004 12:02 AM (P)

OOC: sorry gunrunners. Spring break is upon me, and I feel the surges of youth flow through my blood. And so, over the next week or so, posting will erratic, at best.

I'm talking about geese.

CHANNAIN

Saturday, March 20, 2004 1:27 AM (P)

Rowan's Move:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM

Watching as Damon refills his bowl and begins to wolf that down as well, Rowan considers cautioning him against a potential stomach ache. Deeming that a bit too motherly, and pretty much guaranteed to get ignored, she finishes her own meal instead and rises to put the bowl into the dishwashing unit.

JAYNE (with a mouthful of food): "Much obliged."

Straightening, she looks at him, remembers the kiss in the cargo bay and smiles wistfully.

ROWAN: "Your turn to do the dishes is it?"

He nods and resumes eating, shoveling in a spoonful as his eyes roam over her from somewhere around her throat down as far as her hips and back. Not to hard to tell what was on that mercenary's mind.

Turning slowly to give him a rear view as well, she moves out of the kitchen grotto and heads out to the back passage way. She pauses for a moment, almost sure she can hear the sound of crying coming from somewhere. Unable to locate the source, she heads down the aft stairs again, wondering which of Serenity's systems would make a sound like that.

Quickly heading up to her dorm room, she pulls the attaché out again and opens the large pouch on the side to remove a black mesh bag with a zipper on top. Inspecting the contents through the mesh, she reaches back in for a small hand-held device and then shoves the attaché back under her bunk. Pulling out her cue case, she slings that over her shoulder. Checking for the money pouch again - successfully - she heads back out and up the stairs, returning to the dining room. Book is still at the table, but seems to have finished his meal and she approaches him.

ROWAN: "Excuse me, Shepherd, I'm in need of some practice time - you don't think anyone would mind if I set up here, do you? The table's a little narrow, but it'll do in a pinch."

EOM

We have art so as not to die of truth ~ Neitzsche
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

MERCEDESTROY

Saturday, March 20, 2004 1:58 AM (P)

MERZ move
LOCATION - GALLEY to MERZ DORM

She sits quietly at a table for a while, just letting the conversation roll over her. She is puzzling over something the one pointed out to her as Shepard Book had said:

Quote:
”...he said David got stoned off his ass.”

everyone laughed. why? so he got knocked from his riding beast by a rock - that is funny? It must have been how he said it, something MERZ missed. Doesn’t seem particularly amusing to her.

The evening seems to be winding down, and she is tired. Beyond tired, she is weary down to the bone. MERZ takes her empty bowl, spoon and glass to the sink, rinses everything and retires to her very own room. She looks again rather wistfully at the bunk, and then stretches out face down on the floor, her head pillowed on her hands.

She is asleep almost immediately.

The room is dark. There is nothing in the room but a chair and a table. On the table a disassembled firearm appears –broken down completely into all of its component parts including one magazine. The manual for that particular weapon appears next to it.

There is a voice ‘this is your final test. In 15 minutes your enemy will arrive. Assemble your weapon and defend yourself.’ MERZ seats herself and begins to assemble the gun. Should be easy, she has done this uncounted times, and under worse conditions.

But not this time. This time, try as she might, nothing seems to go right. She can’t remember how to start. The pieces fail to connect properly. She reaches for the manual to see what she is doing wrong, and finds that the pictures have been removed and the text is gibberish. She moves faster and faster, hands blurring, to try to get it right, but is unsuccessful.

‘Time’ says the voice, and MERZ feels a large hand descend on her shoulder. There is a new voice, a familiar voice, warm breath tickling her ear. . . ‘Little Mercedes, I have found you at last.’ She tries to jerk away, but cannot move under the pressure of that touch. ‘Yes, it was me that you saw, and you did not lose me. Oh no‘

She wants to reach for the gun, to try again. But she cannot move and the pieces have turned to small piles of rust.

‘Make new friends, hide among strangers, makes no difference to me Mercedes – when I am ready I WILL take you home.’

He moves his hand and she is free to go, to turn around. But she cannot bring herself to move while he is still there. She can sense him moving off before he pauses, ‘Oh yes, I met a friend of yours earlier and I have brought you a present.’ Something comes flying over her shoulder to land among the dust on the table. A pair of dark glasses. ‘He does not need them anymore.'

MERZ pulls herself awake. And sits a long time shuddering and staring into the darkness.

EOM

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

SQUEE

Saturday, March 20, 2004 8:02 AM (P)

Damon's turn:
LOCATION - DINING ROOM to CARGO BAY/SPARE SHUTTLE

Damon leans against the kitchen counter, finishing the last couple bites of his second bowl of food. As welcoming as the chair looked, he didn't think that he'd ever make it to his feet if he sat down in it again, especially with a full stomache.

He sets his empty bowl in the sink as Rowan returns with a mesh bag.

Quote:
ROWAN: "Excuse me, Shepherd, I'm in need of some practice time - you don't think anyone would mind if I set up here, do you? The table's a little narrow, but it'll do in a pinch."

"I'm headin' for sleep," Damon says to no one in particular.

He helps himself to a cup of water and then heads for the cargo bay. After picking up his bag of possessions from where he had dropped it a couple hours earlier and making sure that everything was still in it, he climbs the stairs up to the catwalk.
He opens the shuttle door and closes it again behind him.

He lets out a tired sigh as he looks around the small shuttle again. Pale light drifts through the half covered window at the front of the cockpit, just enough for him to be able to see where he's going.

There is something about this shuttle that makes him feel at peace. Actually, the whole ship does, but the shuttle offers him a freedom that he finds to be extremely relaxing: he could take this shuttle and go anywhere he wanted with it. Not that he would; just having the option availible was liberating.

Turning to his bed, he puts his bag on the floor and takes off his weapons belt. He puts his gun under his pillow before lying down and falling asleep.

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

MANIACNUMBERONE

Saturday, March 20, 2004 8:41 AM (P)

Book's Move

Location: Galley

Book is staring away at nothing, thinking about everything, when Rowan approaches him.

-----
ROWAN: "Excuse me, Shepherd, I'm in need of some practice time - you don't think anyone would mind if I set up here, do you? The table's a little narrow, but it'll do in a pinch."
-----

Damon stands

---------
"I'm headin' for sleep"
---------

"Sleep well, Damon." Book says and watches him go.

Book is suddenly very interested and awake.
"I don't think anyone would mind. Everyone seems to be going to their bunks. I could certainly do with some sort of diversion, though." Book pauses and chuckles. "I may not be much of a match, but if you want, I'll give you a game."

Standing up and gathering as many dishes into his hands as he can, Book looks to Rowan. "Help me clear these dishes and things off of the table, would you Rowan? We'll make some room."

EM

OOC Geezer, Boomer, Merz.... great dream stuff lately. I love the background I am imagining for your characters.

MERCEDESTROY

Sunday, March 21, 2004 1:57 PM (P)

LOCATION - MERZ DORM to CARGO BAY

MERZ move

Finding herself completely unable to return to sleep, MERZ decided to get a workout instead, while everyone is asleep. In the darkness, she strips off her shipsuit and dons a loose tank top and drawstring trousers, in grey cotton. She grabs the sticks from the pocket of the shipsuit and quietly opens the door. She stands barefooted in the doorway for a short time, listening and breathing deeply. She can hear voices and odd clicking noises from the common area, but senses no one else near.

MERZ pads quietly to the cargo bay where there is a bit of floor space large enough for her to use. She stands motionless in silence for a space – again using her senses, but detects no one near. There is a heat trace near each of the shuttles – but both doors are closed.

Good enough. Merz begins slowly. It is part dance, part art, part kata. She starts with one stick, with one hand, with feet, knees, elbows – fighting dream opponents. For a while MERZ is still actively aware of her surroundings. But gradually she is taken by the art; by the peace of total concentration, and she loses contact with all but her actions. She speeds up pushing herself harder and harder. It has been too long since she had a chance to really let go. She holds at top speed for nearly an hour striving to push for just one more ounce of strength, one more fraction of speed. (At top speed, MERZ is a blur – too fast for the human eye to separate individual motions.)

After almost two hours, MERZ feels her muscles beginning to quiver, and slows to a halt. She is breathing more deeply than hard, and sheathed in sweat. But her mind is calm and focused. She can sleep now.

She stands silent and motionless for a time, dissipating the heat from her exertions. She will walk back to her doss and sleep in just a minute more. But for the moment she is one with the darkness and the calm.

EOM

If Justice is the dish, then I am your waitress

GEEZER

Sunday, March 21, 2004 4:18 PM (P)

Mal's Move:

Location: His Bunk/Catwalk

[MAL can't get back to sleep. He's not too sure he'd want to rerun that dream again anyway. Since he's still dressed, he decides to have a little look-around. He heads for the bridge to check on WASH, but the noises he hears when he gets near the door let him know that WASH is awake, if not very watchful. Grinning and envious, MAL turns to check out the cargo bay.

As he steps onto the catwalk, he sees movement below, and freezes, hidden behind a bulkhead. Peering around the corner, he sees MERZ doing some sort of martial arts routine. She moves slowly and deliberately at first, but soon speeds up, long hair flying as she spins and twists. Mal can't help but admire her skill, as well as the way the sweat-sodden tank top clings to her figure. Mighty handsome woman, and no weakling for sure. Bet she'd clean up real nice.

Just watching her workout has tired MAL, so he quietly heads to his bunk, puts on his pajamas, and goes back to bed, hoping for better dreams.]

EOM

OOC: Hey, I can't remember ever seeing what MAL sleeps in, so pajamas is as valid as anything.

"Keep the Shiny side up"

CHANNAIN

Monday, March 22, 2004 1:59 AM (P)

Rowan's Move:
LOCATION - GALLEY

Quote:
Damon: "I'm headin' for sleep."

Rowan: "Nite xiâo dì dì. Sleep tight and pleasant dreams."

Quote:
Book is suddenly very interested and awake.
"I don't think anyone would mind. Everyone seems to be going to their bunks. I could certainly do with some sort of diversion, though." Book pauses and chuckles. "I may not be much of a match, but if you want, I'll give you a game."

Standing up and gathering as many dishes into his hands as he can, Book looks to Rowan. "Help me clear these dishes and things off of the table, would you Rowan? We'll make some room."

ROWAN (Smiling): "I'll take any game you have, Shepherd, and gladly."

Setting the bag and cue case down on the table, she moves quickly to assist. Stacking up bowls and collecting silverware, she follows Book to the little grotto and leaves the stack near the opened dish washer. Jayne is finishing up his own meal, licking the last of the tastiness out of his bowl before setting it in the rack and starting on the rest. He seems to have a system all his own that apparently doesn't include rinsing. As fresh water is bound to be at a premium, that may or may not be a good thing, Rowan decides.

Returning to the table, she opens the bag and starts sorting the hardware like the pieces of a puzzle. No less than six portable holographic projectors, each designed to provide maximum resolution from their respective angles. Looking up at the ceiling, she makes a quick calculation and sets each projector according to its expected position. Then she pulls a chair out, slips off her sandals and steps up. The Shepherd takes her hand and supports her elbow as well as she climbs up to stand on the table - an unnecessary gesture, but a welcome and most gentlemanly one. Swiftly, she sets the projectors using the magnetic buttons on the bottom of each unit. First the corners, diagonally, then the center units, using her own arms and a little eyeballing from the Shepherd to get them set mostly straight. Hopping back down, she picks up the hand held unit and touches the screen while the Shepherd finishes pulling the chairs away to the sides. All four units come to life, and a holographic billiards table is suspended in mid-air, three feet above the dining table. A few lightly touched adjustments, and the billiards table appears to be resting on the table top. Another touch and a nine-ball rack appears, then the balls themselves, with the white cue ball last.

Pleased, Rowan tucks the hand-held device into the front of her trousers for the time being and picks up the case, moving to lay it across two of the chairs. Opening the latches, she draws out the two pieces of her simple black-lacquer cue stick. Twisting the pieces tightly together, she turns it until the Chinese symbols for luck and fortune appear. Kissing them both, she twirls it once at her side and then hands it out to the Shepherd.

ROWAN: "Why don't you break, Shepherd?"

EOM

We have art so as not to die of truth ~ Neitzsche
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

ASTRIANA

Monday, March 22, 2004 4:11 AM (P)

ZOE/WASH MOVE:
LOCATION - BRIDGE

ZOE settles easily into WASH's lap, resting her head on his shoulder and wrapping her arms around his neck. She cups his face in her hand, sliding her thumb along his cheek lovingly, almost playfully. WASH closes his eyes, enjoying her caress, and pulls her closer. He turns his head to look at her, and finds himself caught as she returns his gaze. He lifts his hands, burying them in the silky curls framing her face. As she leans in to kiss him, he runs his fingers through her hair, to the back of her head, and removes the comb holding that luxurious hair in place. Her hair falls freely; their lips meet, mingle, and she presses herself closer to him still. They kiss and caress leasurely, unhurriedly, until she pulls her head back slightly. He brushes her hair away from her face; she runs a finger down his cheek and smiles. Looking deep into his eyes, she gives a small, resigned sigh; he echoes it.

WASH: "I know. He'll be awake soon."

ZOE: "Not soon enough."

ZOE rises from WASH's lap and reaches for the bowls, willing to accept cold food for the few moments stolen in the midst of chaos. He watches her appreciatively, as she bends slightly, letting him appreciate the view. Passing him bowl, spoon, and napkin, she pulls the second chair closer to him, unwilling to be out of reach for long. They eat together in contented silence, smiling as each catches the other's eye. When they've finished, ZOE collects the remains of their meal. As she turns toward the door to take their dishes back to the galley, she throws him an inviting look over her shoulder.

ZOE: "I'll be waiting."

She leaves the bridge, trailing almost palpable anticipation behind her. He can't wait for MAL to wake.

End Move.

OOC: Hey folks! Since I didn't know when Raven was going to be able to get back to me, I wen t ahead and posted the scene between Zoe and Wash. I'll edit it later if need be.

~A~

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

GEEZER

Monday, March 22, 2004 1:45 PM (P)

Mal's Move

Location: His Bunk/Bridge

[The alarm buzzer sounds, waking MAL from a better dream than his first one. Time to relieve WASH on watch. MAL slips off his PJs and gets dressed. Leavng his bunk, he detours to the catwalk, but MERZ is no longer in the hold. No excuse now, back to the bridge. At least WASH's alone now, and probably eager to get to bed, if not to sleep.]

MAL:(grinning evily)"Pretty slow night, eh? Think I'll go make some coffee before I take over. That slow drip kind that takes 'bout 30 minutes, maybe. You don't have anything else to do, do ya?"

WASH: (yawning hugely)"Well, I'd love th hang around, but I'm awful tired, MAL. Hate to think of dozin' off while you were in the galley, and havin' Reavers catch us unawares. Maybe, just for the safety of the ship, you should take over now and I'll bring you a cup later on?"

MAL:"Oh, go to your wife, you ruttin' liou mahng. Just keep it down, so everybody else can sleep."

[WASH smiles and almost runs for the door as MAL settles down in the chair. Looking over the controls he sees that the comm has logged a private message for THORNE. He could call him about it, but tomorrow's soon enough. He leans back to watch the stars.]

EOM

Liou mahng = Bastard

OOC: I moved WASH along a bit too. Can't keep Zoe waiting.

"Keep the Shiny side up"

MANIACNUMBERONE

Monday, March 22, 2004 8:12 PM (P)

Book's Move

Location: Galley converted to pool hall

Shepherd Book watches as Rowan initiates the last few holoprojectors and the table snaps into focus. She puts together her cue, twirls it and hands it out to Book.

--------
ROWAN: "Why don't you break, Shepherd?"
--------

"Thank you" Book quirks his head as he takes the offered stick, stretches his arms behind his head and steps up to the table. He leans down preparing to break then pauses.
"It's been a long time, mind." Book says looking over his shoulder, with a somewhat worried look on his face. Then his face breaks into a wide smile and turns back to the shot.

Book taps the cue ball a little to the left, pulls back the cue stick and slams away at the ball. Unfortunately, the concealed wrapping on his hand catches at the stick and the shot goes astray. The cue ball flies high over the rack of balls and as it passes beyond the edge of the table, it disappears.

Book stands a little guiltily from his shot and turns back to Rowan offering her the cue. "Looks like I wasn't meant to break."

EM

CHANNAIN

Tuesday, March 23, 2004 1:00 AM (P)

Rowan's Move:
LOCATION - The Serenity Pool Hall, a.k.a. Galley

Quote:
The cue ball flies high over the rack of balls and as it passes beyond the edge of the table, it disappears.

Watching the cue ball make its graceful arch over the table and vanish into the air beyond the termination of the holographic field, Rowan gives the preacher a questioning look.

Quote:
Book stands a little guiltily from his shot and turns back to Rowan offering her the cue. "Looks like I wasn't meant to break."

Rowan has to bite her lips together to keep from laughing. Rather than take the cue, she waves the preacher back.

ROWAN: "We'll call that a warm up. That kind of enthusiasm warrants a do-over."

Taking the hand-held pad from her trousers, she taps a couple keys and the cue ball appears right where it was before the Shepherd eliminated its very existence. When he gives her a dubious look, she waves toward the table.

ROWAN: "You might as well get your licks in while you can, Shepherd. I've never let anyone win, so if I start this game, I will finish it."

EOM

We have art so as not to die of truth ~ Neitzsche
http://www.mnartists.org/artistHome.do?rid=7922

SQUEE

Tuesday, March 23, 2004 1:25 AM (P)

Damon’s turn:
LOCATION- SPARE SHUTTLE

Damon lies curled up on his bunk, trying to fend off the nightmares that constantly plague his sleep. They are the one thing he will never be free of. No matter how far he runs, they will always be there as soon as his eyes close.

A small part of him is aware that he is dreaming and he clings to it, desperately trying to pull himself awake. He opens his eyes and sits up with a start. He looks around, but can’t see anything in the dark room. Hearing only his heart pounding in his chest and the distant hum of a spaceship engine, he slowly exhales and untangles himself from his sweat soaked sheets.

He reaches his feet with a groan and tries to rub some feeling into his stiff muscles. The only thing worse than getting the go se beaten out of you is waking up the next morning. He checks the time and realizes that it isn’t even three in the morning yet. Too early to get up, but he knew that he wouldn’t get back to sleep. He walks over to the pilot chair in the cockpit and sits down, watching the stars floating by through the window.

What are you doing here?

I truly don’t know.

You’re sitting in a fully powered shuttle.

I’m not taking their shuttle. They saved my life.

You don’t owe them anything. You worked your ass off for them.

I worked my ass off for myself. I’d be dead or on route back to Dis right now if I didn’t install that cannon for them.

So you’re just going to keep working for them? You’re taking orders from them like a slave. The captain calls and you run.

I never followed orders, even as a slave. I follow them now because I choose to. I’m not going back to Dis.

Even if that means becoming their slave?

I’m not a slave.

They aren’t paying you.

I am getting free food and a place to sleep. I can leave whenever I want.

Then why don’t you?

… I don’t know.

You don’t know much.

... It’s safe here.

Hu shuo, its not safe anywhere. The girl already knows. What if she snitches on you?

She’s not saying anything.

She already said enough!

None of them seem sympathetic to the Alliance; they wouldn’t turn me in.

You willing to bet your freedom on that?

…

Thought not. You’ve worked too hard to get caught now. You won’t survive another day on Dis, Crofton will make sure of it.

I know that.

Then why are you hanging around criminals? The last place you want to be is on a ship that draws attention to itself.

No, the last place I want to be is on some transport ship with an Alliance butt-kissing crew who would turn me in for a nice reward. This place is as safe as any, especially if I have a dozen people on my side for once.

Don’t get too comfortable with that. It won’t be long before you’re on your own again.

And if I get offered a long-term job? The captain did call me crew.

You mean if you get offered a long-term job and if you manage to not get fired and if they don’t find out what you are? Cows will fly.

Well, I managed to get off the ground, so maybe they will too one day.

Damon continues to watch the stars for a few minutes longer as his mental debate comes to an end. Well, for tonight anyway. He sits stretched out in the chair with his arms folded across his chest and drifts back to sleep.

Hu shuo = bullshit

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

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