VFF The Book continues 4

POSTED BY: Colt999
UPDATED: Saturday, April 26, 2014 13:20
VIEWED: 92229
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ORAM

Thursday, May 1, 2008 3:40 AM

*With one hand wrapped around the mug of hot coffee, Oram maked her way to the infirmary to begin producing the inoculations for the crew when they land on Whitefall. Mobbex’s clueless expression and paling features as he awoke had made her day, and it wasn't even 8:30am. Though she didn’t intend to take the joke too far… she didn’t need to get into another yelling match with the already hair-trigger Merc.
She sat the mug on the counter and busied herself with the medical equipment and serums in the cupboard, measuring the dosage into vials for everybody who’d go into Whitefall*

SPOTS74

Thursday, May 1, 2008 4:31 AM

(Spots siting in the galley with a stack of manuals for an 03 firefly in the middle of one when Brit comes Walking up)

Brit: whatch doin??? **ploping down in a chair**

Reading

Brit: what are you reading

Well**looking up from the book** i don't know very thing about this firefly

Sky**walking though the galley headed to the cargo hold** so remind me again why we have you on this boat **spots and sky narrow their eyes at each other till sky is out of the galley***

well im constaly learing

Brit: ooooh ok... **eyes wandering around the room stoping Spots' cast*** OOOOOOO can i sign your cast **producing a black marker**

sure i dont see why not.

(Brit jurks spots' arm and begins to write. when shes finished skips off to the cargo hold)

*Spots reading his cast** mumbling Oi

COLT999

Thursday, May 1, 2008 1:12 PM

*I walk into Abbey’s shuttle. I see her asleep on the sofa. The place is a neat wreck. She must have fallen asleep trying to get it reorganized. I pick up a few things and set them on a table. *

Abbey: Just so I know, are you going to knock every other time?

*I almost jump out of my skin* I was just…I didn’t know you were…didn’t want to wake you up. * Damn this gal can tongue tie me.*

*She sits up on the sofa. I see the dried tears on her face.* Are you ok?

Abbey: Yes..I’m..I’m fine.

They did a number on your shuttle. Not sure you can restock on Whitefall, kind of backwater moon.

Abbey: I suppose your right. I’ll place some orders when we know our next destination.

*I sit down next to her on the sofa. She raises and eyebrow when I do. I wonder if it’s a mistake. I thought we had a moment before the Alliance busted in, maybe I’m wrong.*

Well set a course for where ever you want so you can resupply.

Abbey: Thank you Captain.

*Captain? Ouch. I scoot away from her on the sofa* I’m sorry...I didn’t mean to crowd you. I guess I’ll be going.

*She laughs softly and takes my hand* Abbey: Gotcha.

*She moves next to me and I put my arm around her. We sit in silence. Her head on my chest, mine on her head. We both fall back to sleep. I don’t hear her murmuring when her nightmares return.*

Wash on the com: Whitefall’s coming up big in the window people. We’ll be on the ground in 20.

*Both of us wake up and immediately split from each other. We fumble for words and in the end both just smile.*

I better go play at being Captain.

Abbey: Yeah I guess you should.

*I leave her shuttle grinning like a jackass eating cactus and head to the bridge.*

Stan: One of his prairie dogs could have outsmarted him.

http://hometown.aol.com/colt9999/myhomepage/index.html

WASHRULESBABY

Thursday, May 1, 2008 1:18 PM

****Hits Comm********

Hey stan lets us work on you landing this bird.

**********starts to do the landing procedures.*********

*****Stan comes running in************

stan: sorry i am late

Wash: Don'tmake a habit of it sit over there I shall correct any mistakes you might make?

I am a leaf on the wind

ABBEYGIRL

Thursday, May 1, 2008 2:28 PM

*abbey stands up with a smile on her face after the Captain leaves and looks into the mirror. She looks tired. Her sleep wasn’t restful in any sense of the word. She hasn’t had a nightmares like that for quite some time.*

*Her mind drifts back to falling asleep with the Captain. Waking up with his arms around her was nice. No really nice. It had been awhile since she had let anyone get even that close to her.*

*She is interrupted by a wave coming in, so she goes and answers it. It is a very unconventional request, but she accepts. After the call is done, she decides she might need a bit of help. She freshens up and heads for the galley. She finds Mobbex there laying on the floor. He doesn’t look so good.*

abbey *standing above him*: I guess you had an… interesting night.

*Mobbex pales.*

Mobbex *stammering*: I didn’t touch… I don’t think… *sighs* I don’t know.

abbey *looking at him, slightly amused. She’s never seen the merc so unsettled*: I need you to do something for me.

Mobbex *getting paler*: I was being nice! Er… I think… *starts mumbing to himself* …weird... She weren’t too mad this morning…

abbey *folding her arms in front of her*: Are you drunk?

Mobbex *under his breath*: I wish I was.

*abbey looks at him strangely. What has gotten into him?*

abbey *back to the task at hand*: I need a favor from you. *Mobbex decides to stand up in case he needs to make a quick escape. She continues.* I am scheduled to officiate an… arm wrestling competition later today.

Mobbex *raises an eyebrow at her*: Wha…? *It’s not something he would picture abbey doing.*

abbey: I know, it’s not my forte, but they wanted someone who was impartial to oversee it. *she pauses* The thing is that I don’t know these people. Don’t know if they could get a bit… feisty.

Mobbex: You need a bodyguard?

abbey: Yes. *Mobbex smiles and nods his head.*

Mobbex: Never had the chance to guard someone’s body. *Colt takes that moment to enter the room.*

Colt: Excuse me?

abbey *stomach flipping slightly at his presence, but tries to act normally*: I was asking your man here if he would serve as my bodyguard today. I have a rather… interesting game to attend to today and having him there will make me feel better.

Mobbex *smiles at Colt*: On account of my intimidating nature.

Colt *standing as tall as he can*: You don’t need him. I can be intimidating. *abbey colors slightly at the thought that he’d rather protect her himself*

Mobbex *laughing*: Come on Captain. Intimidating is what you have me for. It’s in my job description.

Colt *protesting*: But I need him for the job.

abbey: This would be afterward.

Colt: I might have more stuff for him to do. Some… important stuff.

abbey: Like what?

Colt *stammers*: Just… stuff.

*abbey rolls her eyes.*

abbey: So he’s available then?

Colt *giving in*: Yes… But I’m not paying him for this.

abbey: Don’t worry. He’ll be compensated.

Mobbex: Comsenpated?

Colt and abbey *in unison*: You’ll be paid.

Mobbex: Shiny!

abbey: Then it’s decided. *turns to Mobbex* I’ll see you around 4:00 planet time today. In the cargo bay?

Mobbex: Be there with bells on. *He takes the chance to leave the room, in case she might go back to questioning him about his... evening last night.*

Colt *looking at her closely*: Are you sure you want him along?

abbey: He is exactly what I need. *Colt looks a little hurt. She revises her statement.* In this particular instance.

Colt *a bit uncomfotable*: Oh… OK.

*He could smell her perfume. It had a soft vanilla scent. Sweet… like her. She steps a bit closer to him.*

abbey: Thank you… For stopping in to see me…

Colt *his heart speeding up a little*: It was nothing. *Suddenly she shrieks and jumps into his arms. He is surprised, but is not complaining. However, she is more concerned with looking intently at the floor though.* Oh… What’s wrong?

abbey: I swear something brushed a

SHINYBRIT

Thursday, May 1, 2008 3:08 PM

*Brit is standing in the cargo bay and turning around, pointing to different places*

There. *points up at the galley*

There. *points at a corner in the cargo bay*

There. *points towards Abbey's shuttle*

There. *points toward the engine room*

There. *points toward the passenger bunks*

*She stops pointing places and looks up toward the ceiling* They'll all scurry about, however. They won't stay there for much longer.

-----------------------------------------------
"You know what the chain of command is? It's the chain I go get and beat you with until you understand who's in ruttin' command here!" - Jayne Cobb (Firefly)

MOBBEX

Thursday, May 1, 2008 5:11 PM

Later that day, Mobbex is coming down the stairs to the common area when he catches sight of Oram sitting on one of the pouffes, holding a banjo in her lap as she and Sky are jabbering and tittering about something. He can't help but listen as he walks by them.

Oram: ...Oh, I've had better. 'Was kind of limpy, to be honest...

He feels his blood starting to boil and puts on a quick spurt to get to the cargo bay. Abbey is standing next to the airlock, tapping her foot impatiently.

Abbey: You took your sweet time...

Mobbex: Yeah, 'had to doll m'self up some.

Abbey: *crosses her arms over her chest* Well the game got moved up. You better hope we don't end up being late on account of you needing to powder up...

Mobbex cuts her off with a grunt, then forcefully smacks the the the controls with the palm of his hand. The ramp begins to lower.

Mobbex, as they head out: So what's this about, again? Y' want me to arm-wrestle some guys?

Brit: Steadfast stares and yet he's but a sheep amongst lions. What exactly am I? Oh, wait, that's right... I'm insane...

ORAM

Friday, May 2, 2008 12:24 AM

Oram:...Oh, I've had better. 'Was kind of limpy, to be honest...

*Sky gives Oram a strange look as Mobbex passes, his anger obviously boiling up, Oram just smiles*

Sky: What was that about?

Oram: Tactical revenge of a situation.

Sky: *slowly dawning on her* So … he thinks that…

Oram: Yep.

Sky: That’s cold.

Oram: Well, not so much as I was talking about banjo strings and he just happen to pass at the wrong time…

Sky: You did raise your voice at the time he happened to pass.

Oram: Teach the devil not of eavesdrop on conversation then.

Sky: He’ll be mighty sore when he finds out nothing happened and it was all a joke.

Oram: Well, it’ll show him not to be Mr. Grabby with me. Especially when he’s over-tanked on liquor.

*Sky simply rolls her eyes at the Docs misguided logic*

ABBEYGIRL

Friday, May 2, 2008 3:21 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Mobbex:
Mobbex, as they head out: So what's this about, again? Y' want me to arm-wrestle some guys?

abbey: No you can’t participate in the tournament.

Mobbex: You don’t think I can take them? *lifts arms up and flexes them*

*abbey rolls her eyes.*

abbey: That’s not the point.

Mobbex: So I have to watch? Can’t I keep an eye on you and arm wrestle at the same time?

abbey *takes a deep breath*: It would be unethical for me to allow you to participate in the games since you are under my employ.

Mobbex: Huh?

abbey: It would be wrong since I pay you. Would look like cheating.

Mobbex: So I gotta just watch?

abbey: That’s the general idea when someone acts as a bodyguard.

Mobbex *leers at her a bit*: So I just have to guard your… body?

abbey: Put your eyes back in your head.

Mobbex *teasing*: Is the Captain gonna be sore cause I’m watchin you? *abbey stops dead in her tracks* He does seem a bit jealous when it comes to you.

abbey: Maybe this was a bad idea.

Mobbex: ‘M just teasin’ abbey. I got the concept of a body guard down. I jus gotta make sure that you don’t get hurt should things go pear shaped.

abbey *in relief*: Good. You were starting to scare me. *she starts walking again then stops again.* He gets jealous?

Mobbex: Who?

abbey *frustrated*: Colt! Er… the Captain.

Mobbex: Hell, yeah!

*abbey smiled a bit. They walked in silence for a few minutes, before abbey asked him a question.*

abbey: Did anything out of the ordinary happen while you were in the galley last night?

Mobbex *stiffens when she mentions it and denies it immediately*: No.

abbey: Nothing at all?

Mobbex: Well… I had a bad night… I was drunk…

abbey: So something could have happened and you just didn’t remember.

Mobbex *uncomfortably*: No. Nothin’ happened. I would have remembered… Wouldn’t I?

abbey: It’s just that when I was up there, I could have sworn something touched me. *Mobbex stops dead in his tracks.*

Mobbex: I don’t know what she told you, but I am definitely sure you weren’t there!

*abbey looks at him like he’s grown a second head.*

abbey: What are you talking about?

Mobbex : Nothing. *He sees the building where they are going up ahead and he quickly changes the subject.* There’s the tavern, let’s go.

*abbey nearly has to run to keep up with him, but they get to the tavern quickly. abbey drops the subject and goes into “gamer mode” when she gets inside. The tavern is square with a long bar that went along the whole left side of the room. It was filled to the brim with people, some already knocking back some drinks. It’s furnishings were simple and made of wood. Two taller, heavy duty tables had been brought in to serve as the podiums for each match. Mobbex takes notice of where each of the exits are.*

abbey: I’m glad I wore something appropriate. I almost wore a skirt.

Mobbex: A skirt? Here? That would’ve been a problem if a fight were to break out.

abbey: You think? I’m not a completely clueless debutante from the core. I do have a brain in my head.

*Mobbex snorts at her. There are three bags sitting along the wall behind the bartender. abbey points at them.*

abbey: If trouble breaks out, one of those bags belong to me.

Mobbex: What’s in it?

abbey *smiling at him*: A third of the proceeds.

Mobbex *grinning*: Well, we wouldn’t want a ruckus to start now would we…

abbey *smacking him slightly on the arm*: No we don’t. And you’ll do nothing to “help things along.” I have the chance of future clients here. This goes well and the owner of this establishment will tell others of his dealings with me. Could have some future bookings out of it.

Mobbex *slightly disappointed*: Oh. You take all the fun away.

The owner sees abbey and Mobbex and walks over to them.

Owner: Welcome! We are honored to have you here.

abbey *shaking his hand*: It is a nice diversi

COLT999

Friday, May 2, 2008 3:48 AM

*I meet Sky and Stan coming back for the final load of lumber*

Did you hide it good?

Sky: Bout a mile from the meeting spot

Good job. Not sure how this will play out. Patience might be willing to deal, no problems, might not.

Sky: Tell me again why Mobbex isn’t going?

He’s helping…

Sky: I know what he’s doing I was being sarcastic.

Oh…well don’t be. It’ll be fine.

Sky: You know if you spent less time skirt chasing you might not have so many problems

Skirt chasing? Who Abbey?

Sky: This is no different than that time with that wheel girl you pulled in on the Ezra job. What was her name?

Not sure what your implying Sky. And Jill, that was nothing. Just a little friendly flirting is all.

Sky: And how did that end?

*I swallow hard softly say: Shooting

Sky: That’s right shooting. You can really pick em.

She missed didn’t she? *getting angry*

Sky: Yeah she really cared about you, or she just couldn’t shoot.

Well as soon as Abbey starts shooting, you can say you told me so. Till then, keep your nose out of it and watch my back.

*We don’t speak on the way to the meet. Once we arrive I tell Stan to take the high ground and cover our position. Sky volunteers for the duty. I let her go. *

*Stan trying to easer the tension: So how did you two meet?

Stan: One of his prairie dogs could have outsmarted him.

http://hometown.aol.com/colt9999/myhomepage/index.html

WASHRULESBABY

Friday, May 2, 2008 2:17 PM

capt I shall have the ship on stand by case you guys wil need a quick get away.

***********starts to head back to the ship**********

I shall be in my room if you need me.

I am a leaf on the wind

COLT999

Friday, May 2, 2008 7:34 PM

(OOC Wash come hang out with us in the chat when you can. http://www.chatzy.com/155504505844 )

Stan: One of his prairie dogs could have outsmarted him.

http://hometown.aol.com/colt9999/myhomepage/index.html

STRANGEBIRD

Friday, May 2, 2008 8:30 PM

Colt: "It's a story in itself, I won't lie. You really want to know?"

Stan: " I don't mean to be prying though, if you don't want to tell you don't have to... sir."

*He adds, unspoken and to himself* "Why did he bring me instead of the thug on this job?.... by the shèng mǔ I really hope there isn't any shooting."

*He glances after Sky as she moves away to find a secure position. Thinking again about her friendly advice about keeping to himself. He isn't sure if she was joking or not.*

<--------------------<<<<-~~~~(*)~~~~->>>>-------------------->
"True glory consists of doing what deserves to be written, and writing what deserves to be read" Gaius Plinius Secundus

MOBBEX

Saturday, May 3, 2008 2:15 PM

The owner gives the cue; the crowd of already lightheaded onlookers gathers around a row of rugged men standing against the wall farthest from the door.

Abbey moves in to stand between the two podiums, with Mobbex shadowing her every step of the way.

The mercenary methodically scans the room for potential trouble makers, taking advantage of his towering stature to run his gaze over each and every patron.

One of them walks with a stiffness in his gait that he knows all too well.

Ten to one this joe's got a gat tucked in his underpants... I better mark this one down.

He then shifts his attention toward the contenders.

Hmm... 'one with the eyepatch is a player.

The owner climbs on the counter, a megaphone in hand.

Owner: All right, gentlemen, this ain't none of you's first time in here, y'all know the rules. We won't tolerate for any unpleasantness to go down within these walls. You got a problem with a decision, you go settle it outside with the people concerned. Now, as some of you've no doubt noticed, we got ourselves a foreign umpire this time 'round...

The owner gestures a hand toward Abbey, goatish utterances and appreciative whistles ensue.

Owner: ...before you get your blood all flowin', know that this lady here is a registered gamer, and hence is to be treated with the utmost courtesy.

The agitation dies out without further ado.

Owner: Now, if you'd all place your bets and have a seat, we can get started with our first matchup o' the day!

The crowd cheers in feverish excitement.

Owner: Contestants, step forward, if you'd be so kind.

The one with the eyepatch distances himself from the group, promptly followed by a rather stocky man in a farmer's outfit.

Owner: Ladies and gents, in one end, I give you... Barry Schoonhoven!

The attendance explodes in a deafening roar of support as a handful of spectators even begin to chant "Deadeye! Deadeye! Deadeye!" in approximate unison.

Owner: In the other end, y'all raise the roof for Reginald Bigalow!

The audience's response is unmistakably more mitigated this time around.

The crowd splits to make a passageway for the two men to walk up to the podiums. They sit across from each other and lock their hands together while Abbey closes in to oversee the bout.

Abbey: Gentlemen, on three... one, two, THREE!

It is obvious from the get-go that the two foes are far from evenly matched. Bigalow is wincing and struggling to keep his wrist straight. Then, in an impressive display of technique and explosive strength, "Deadeye" Barry turns his wrist into a hooked grip and rams his fellow contestant's hand into the table.

Mobbex arches his eyebrows as the crowd bursts into cheers.

Yup... this one's gonna go a long way.

Brit: Steadfast stares and yet he's but a sheep amongst lions. What exactly am I? Oh, wait, that's right... I'm insane...

ABBEYGIRL

Saturday, May 3, 2008 6:35 PM

*abbey looks around at the crowd. They are a very rough bunch. Some are a bit drunk already. She is a bit nervous. The owner announces her as the judge and the response from the crowd is a mixture of leering, whistling and cat calls. abbey stiffens a little. Then the owner also states that she is a Registered Gamer and their behavior dissipates.*

*She looks over her shoulder and finds Mobbex not two feet from her, scanning the crowd with a serious and intimidating look on his face. She smiles a bit.*

abbey *to herself*: This was a good idea. I’m glad he’s in my corner.

MOBBEX

Sunday, May 4, 2008 5:02 PM

Surely enough, a little over an hour later "Dead Eye" Barry has made it all the way to the semi-finals. His upcoming opponent is a strapping young man from a nearby township who has enjoyed a remarkable run up to this point. Deadeye runs his gaze up and down his fresh faced rival, then flashes the crowd a boastful grin before plumping himself onto one of the seats.

Deadeye: What's the matter kid, havin' second thoughts? You're not gonna chicken out on me, are ya? Can't say I'd blame ya, though...

Mobbex frowns.

'Guy sure likes to run his mouth... he thinks to himself.

The young man tenses up and takes a seat.

Bradley: Name's Bradley, not kid, and I don't bow down to the likes of you. *extends his right arm into position*

Deadeye smirks and firmly takes hold of the younger man's hand.

Abbey: Gentlemen, on three. One... two... THREE!

It turns into one of the longest and hardest fought battles of the day, as both men pull out all the stops to come out on top. The place is suddenly plunged into a restless silence. Even the most vociferous customers are down to bitting their nails in frantic expectancy.

Mobbex steps a few paces toward Abbey and leans his head down to her ear.

Mobbex, whispering: Well that's sort of epic, ain't it?

Abbey has to pinch herself to hold back a giggle.

About a minute in, the two men are moaning and wincing under the strain, but are still neck-and-neck. Deadeye is the first to show signs of wear as the match gradually begins to tilt in Bradley's favor. Then, when he's is on the verge of getting pinned, Deadeye abruptly loosens his grip, causing his hand to slip.

Deadeye: Aw... my mistake, I slipped. Too bad ain't it? You wanna rest a bit 'fore we go again?

Bradley just glowers at him, then shakes his head in utter disgust.

Deadeye: *turns to Abbey* Gimme, say, five... no, ten minutes...

Abbey: You slipped while in a definite losing position, I can't allow a rematch. The bout goes to Bradley. *the young man's face lights up like a christmas tree*

Dead eye literally jumps out of his seat and gets right into Abbey's face.

Deadeye: What!? What kind of a half ass rule is that?

Abbey, with ice in her voice: Those are the rules I was given. If you won't abide by them, say it now. I'll have my security advisor escort you outside.

Deadeye: *backs off and shoots the owner a fierce look* See what happens when you bring in foreigners? They screw things dead in the ground! You're gonna hear about this, I'll see to it!

Owner: *reaches for something under the counter* Watch it, Barry!

Deadeye: *shifts his gaze back to Abbey* And you! Who'd you think you are to come in here'n just... *struggles with his speech for an instant* ...change our ways on a whim!

A concert of approval echoes across the room as at least half of the patrons hurriedly move in to round up behind him.

Bradley: Back off, Deadeye! You're just stirrin' up trouble 'cause you lost, and you can't stomach it! *the remaining patrons gather around him as he speaks*

Deadeye: Say that to my face!

Abbey, between clenched teeth: Oh, go'se...

She takes a brief look at Mobbex; The mercenary looks... dispassionate.

It's not much longer before tempers start to flare up. As one might have expected, Deadeye is the first one to lose it. He pounces on Bradley and pins him to the ground. Abbey can only watch as the young man gets pummeled into oblivion. The scuffle soon degenerates into a full blown brawl.

Abbey gets shoved to the ground as a man jumps her from behind. She brings her heel up and nails him between the legs. He instantly releases his hold and hunches up on the ground, whimpering in pain. Abbey gets to her feet and wipes the dust off of her button-up shirt.

Deadeye throws one last punch at Bradley before standing up, his clenched hands drenched in blood. He then fixes his gaze upon Abbey, and the feral glitter in his eyes sends shivers up her spine. She scouts around for for Mobbex.

Where's that cheong bao ho tze merc!?

ABBEYGIRL

Sunday, May 4, 2008 9:02 PM

abbey stomps quickly and silently back to the ship with Mobbex trailing behind her.

Mobbex *to himself*: She’s gonna yell at me again…

*When they get to the ship she sits down on a crate, looking outside. Mobbex sits down next to her and waits. He hopes that she will give him his wage without any backlash. He is expecting her to start scolding him any moment, but is shocked when she starts giggling instead.*

abbey: Did you see look on Deadeye's face when you lifted him up and dumped him onto that table?"

Mobbex *starting to laugh too*: I didn’t know they had a class in gamer school on the many uses of bar stools.

abbey *laughing some more*: Oh! *wiping a tear of laughter from her eye* I haven’t done that in a long time!

Mobbex *turning to look at her*: Done what?

abbey: Been in a bar fight. It was kinda… fun. Helps with all the stress…

Mobbex *dumbstruck*: You- You’ve been in a bar fight? Would’ve paid to see that.

abbey: It wasn’t the most shining moment of my life.

Mobbex: Wonder how the boss is going to react when he finds out about the fight.

abbey: Why should he care?

*Mobbex shoots her a ‘You-can’t-be-that-oblivious’ look. abbey smiles slightly at the thought that Colt could be concerned.*

*abbey pulls out the bag they got from behind the bar and rummages around in it before handing him a tiny sum*

Mobbex *leering at her a bit*: Hey! I’ll guard your body any time.

*abbey rolls her eyes.*

abbey: I docked you for being a little slow on the uptake. I shouldn’t have to remind you to do your job.

Mobbex: But you said you had fun!

abbey *standing up and turning towards the inside of the ship*: Not the point. *She turns to Mobbex with a serious look on her face.* And if you tell anyone about my bar brawling past, I’ll hurt you. *She left, returning to her shuttle.*

Mobbex *laughing*: She’ll hurt me…

*He stays on his crate counting his coin, waiting for the others to come back.*

ORAM

Monday, May 5, 2008 1:25 PM

*Oram is dressed in her crème moleskins, with a light blue button-down collar shirt, and her long duster completes the outfit. However, her appearance is slightly ruined by her scuffed riding boots that she seems to always wear. She’s braided her hair, and it's obvious she’s heading out, alone it seems, until she spots Mobbex sitting on a crate with some coin*

Oram: The nearest pub from here is a 30 minute walk.

Mobbex: I’ve just came back from a bar… with Abbey.

*Oram dismisses this sentence with a wave of her hand*

Oram: That was work, this is a debt I owe… well… half-kinder… Look do you want free booze and food or not?

*Mobbex just bluntly try’s to avoid looking at her, and does so by playing with his coins. She watches him for a few more seconds before shrugging and heading for the ships exit*

Oram: Well, if I'm not back in 3hrs just know that Abbey and Colt will both kill you for letting poor little ‘ol me go off into the big bad world with out their hired muscle to keep the bad men away.

*And with that she disappears into the dark. Mobbex watches her leave, then waits for a few moments before grumbling to himself and following the short doctor from a distance.*

WASHRULESBABY

Tuesday, May 6, 2008 1:21 AM

****Walks into the local General Store picks up some fabric . A Trapper walks in holding something

Trapper : I need some help, I dhot this poor animals mother and I need some one to take care of it .

*********walks up to the trapper ( well I did see some huge rats on the book) **********

WASH : Can I see it?

Trapper: sure thing miss

**********pulls back the blanket and sees a cute 8 week ols female bob cat kiten***********

WASH :I will take her . (take the kitten from the trapper)

***Trapper leaves the store***

****WASH finishs her shopping picking up some stuff for the kitten*********

WASH : Well little one we are going to give you a new home .

*********Wash starts heading back to the ship with a couple suprises for the crew***********

Wash : hey spots I am going to go to my room for a bit before we leave ok?

SPOTS : Not a prob Mobbex and abbey just got Back.

******starts giggling and walks towards the bridge . sets up them litter box and the food and water dish. Takes out the kitten( Bob Cat) Lays her still sleeping on the Bridge*********

WASH : okay little one Protect us good we are your family now little one

****climbs back up the stairs heads to the bridge and sets up the other Suprise as SPOT hits the comm******

SPOTS : Wash come the the cargo bay. Wanna play b-ball?

WASH : Gotcha Spots
.

***************Heads to the cargo bay with the Bob cat in her arms**********************

I am a leaf on the wind

COLT999

Tuesday, May 6, 2008 5:11 AM

*I watch Sky head up into the hills nearby. Not sure why she keeps riding me. Maybe I made a mistake asking her here…..No she would be dead if she kept working for him. I know that. Just wish she would see that. Stan asks how we met. *

It was after the war.

Stan: I thought you might have served together.

No. Like most Browncoats after the war, work was hard to find. After a while a lot of em turned to crime. Those that were good at it prospered them that didn’t, ended up in an Alliance prison.

Stan: I guess you were one of the good ones?

Thought I was one of the best, till I ran into Sky.

*Six years ago*

*I move the shuttle into a landing sequence on Bellerophon Estates. A rather large high rise is in the window of the floating island.*

*The com squawks in my ear.* Landing sequence aborted. You will have to swing around to north side landing pad.

*Damn* Check again ground control. My authorization is for south side. I have important business and can not be diverted.

Ground Controller: I’m sorry sir but the pad is occupied. It must have landed on the other shift. You’ll have to divert.

*Putting on my assertive voice* I have my authorization and I will put down on that pad. So you either move that piece of gos se or I’m coming down on top of it.

*I hover a few minutes as they remove the other shuttle*

*Once on the ground I flash my fake ID to get into the building then quickly duck into the service access tunnel. I work my way up to the thirtieth floor. Then carefully remove the exterior window. Every level above this one is alarmed. I rig my harness and begin the climb the building. It’s night. Most of the building is empty. Only security and the tenants that live on the upper floors remain. Just so happens, the tenant I’m planning on visiting tonight is on Osiris this week.*

*Cass Billings manufactured weapons during the war. Now he is a Parliament advisor. And he is a bit of the jewel collector. Tonight I’m going to relive him of enough of those stones to retire. *

*Critter Jones is my fence. He also was the one that brought this opportunity to me. Even after I cut him in I’ll have enough to buy one of these floating islands for myself. *

*I reach the thirty fourth floor and rig a Brocks timer to the alarm relay. I cut a small entry hole into the window and I’m in.*

*I’m moving quick and quite to the safe. I’m just about to fire up my decoder when I see my silhouette on the safe. I raise my hands slowly and turn, expecting to see a security guard. Instead I see Sky*

Who the are you * In unison*

*Before either of us can answer the alarm goes off. The lights turn on and I see her all deck out. She must have 30000 credits of tech gear strapped on to her. She heads for the safe as I head for the door as we’re passing each other I grab her arm.*

It’s too late. Leave it.

*She reluctantly follows. We flank each side of the door just as it opens. Sky trips the first guy through and I push the door back hard into the second guard. Seconds later, their out cold. I grab an antique looking box and Sky grabs a briefcase. Hell we might as well take something. In the hall way I pull a map of the building schematics from my coat and press it against the wall. *

Sky: Isn’t that clever.

I like to be prepared.

*She pulls out a holo disk and a 3-D image of the building rises in front of us. She shoots me a cocky look. * Sky: So do I.

*We split up each finding our way out of the building. I get to the shuttle in time to see it rising off the pad. *

Son of Bitch.

*With security closing in I swipe another shuttle and head off into the night. *

Four hours later I’m slip into Critter’s office only to find Sky is there ahead of me.

Who the are you? *In unison again*

Lady you just up a sweet deal.

Sky: I up. You triggered the alarm.

Like hell I did.

The sirens tip us off that the Feds are coming. We’re out the back door and into a field before they can grab us, but they have the local militia star

ABBEYGIRL

Tuesday, May 6, 2008 2:22 PM

Abbey is feeling happy. The fight at the bar before had actually lightened her mood and worked out some of the stress that had been plaguing her lately. She didn’t want to make it a habit, but it really worked.

She looks around her room and sees that she still has a bit of a mess to clean up. She does it, humming contently as she goes. She makes a list of the items she needs to buy to replace or restock. She makes a mental note to ask the Captain where the next stop might be some she can place an order. When she is done cleaning, she steps out onto the catwalk and looks down. Spots and Wash are enjoying a game of b-ball down in the cargo bay.

Abbey *to herself*: A good work out… What a great idea!

She heads back into her shuttle, changes into a pair of black shorts, a tank shirt and running shoes. She stretches, exits her shuttle and starts her workout. She jogs across the top catwalk to the far side of the bay, down all the stairs, across the bottom catwalk (doesn’t go on cargo bay floor – she doesn’t want to disrupt the game) and back up the stairs to where she started. She keeps doing this, making laps. The burn in her legs and arms feels good and her mind wanders…

Quote:
Originally posted by abbeygirl:
Mobbex: Wonder how the boss is going to react when he finds out about the fight.

abbey: Why should he care?

*Mobbex shoots her a ‘You-can’t-be-that-oblivious’ look. abbey smiles slightly at the thought that Colt could be concerned.*

Colt. Would he really be concerned?

He is the most infuriating man. They fight way too much. They have from just about he time she came on board. He was quite annoying at the beginning, but as time went on, the fighting was almost… fun. Abbey shakes her head a bit. She decides she must be crazy.

That’s all they did was fight. Knock down, drag out fights. She was surprised that they hadn’t actually come to blows. Well, he did forcefully carry her kicking and wheezing to the infirmary. But when did it change?

She searched her mind before it comes to her. The kidnapping. That’s when it changed. The night they fell asleep at the whore house. She had actually slept better that night than she had in years. She had felt… safe. And then there was the night by the abandoned well. He was so thoughtful. He was just wonderful. It was because of him that Oram wasn’t making funeral arrangements.

Then his behavior had changed. He became so insulting, thinking that she’d do things that she would never do, but the attitude behind them was different. Could Grayson had been right? That Colt was… he was… jealous?

Then he kissed her. The first time was an accident – or was it? But it was nice. It was guarded, but really nice. It was really uncomfortable afterwards, not knowing how to act. She wonders if he felt that way too.

Then they had kissed again. That too was guarded at first, but then it wasn’t. It was more. There was depth there. Was she imagining it? It had been a long time since she had felt that way. A long time.

But he had made a point to tell her that those kisses were not an accident. Where is this going?

She keeps running and keeps thinking about him.

SHINYBRIT

Tuesday, May 6, 2008 3:00 PM

(I've magically appeared! Yay, random post...)

*Brit sees Wash bring a kitten on board and then leave it in a small box when she goes to play b-ball with Spots. Her eyes focus on it as the kitten's do the same*

Don't look at me like that.

*The kitten continues to stare. Brit seems to become irritated*

Are you here to catch those inferior rodents? I really don't think that's a good idea. If they can eat humans they can eat kittens too.

*She picks up the kitten and holds it*

Don't worry, little one. I will protect you.

*Brit strokes the kitten as she sits on the floor peacefully*

-----------------------------------------------
"You know what the chain of command is? It's the chain I go get and beat you with until you understand who's in ruttin' command here!" - Jayne Cobb (Firefly)

MOBBEX

Tuesday, May 6, 2008 3:07 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Oram:
Well, if I'm not back in 3hrs just know that Abbey and Colt will both kill you for letting poor little ‘ol me go off into the big bad world with out their hired muscle to keep the bad men away.

Mobbex purposely avoids eye contact as she speaks, and scowls at her back when she steps away.

Colt and Abbey can kiss my...

Then, as she is withdrawing from sight...

Mobbex: Aw, hell... *picks himself up and starts walking behind her*

His lengthy stride enables him to catch up to the diminutive doctor in less than a minute.

Oram: *turns to him as he closes in, a sneering smile on her face* Change of heart?

Mobbex, with a distinct stiffness in his speech: 'Crossed my mind that I could use a drink is all.

'Girl's a honkin' burr under my saddle, but she's still the doc. 'Better off with a catty of a doc about than no doc at all.

Brit: Steadfast stares and yet he's but a sheep amongst lions. What exactly am I? Oh, wait, that's right... I'm insane...

SPOTS74

Tuesday, May 6, 2008 3:23 PM

**huffing and puffing**
Well Wash that game is a lot easer with out the broken arm **taping his cast**

Wash: well you still play a good game

yeah but Oram will kill me... you have a name for the cat yet?

WASHRULESBABY

Tuesday, May 6, 2008 8:28 PM

No I Figured I would let brit name it she seemed to get along with her and the bob cat seems happy with her.

****stands up all sweaty and breathing hard*********

Just wait till the capt see her. lol

I am a leaf on the wind

STRANGEBIRD

Wednesday, May 7, 2008 5:52 AM

*Stan listens to Colt's story. Very interested in such an anecdotal, exciting tale of misadventure. After Colt finishes and asks him to relieve Sky he nods quickly and without a word heads up to relay the captains message to his first mate. As he walks among the short scrub trees and dry brush he thinks over his own situation here, with this crew, playing at crime and business.*

Stan: "I wonder what my folks would think of me now? Working with criminals? ..they don't seem like bad people.. for the most part. At least I'm doing honest work... if you can call aiding criminals honest."

*He walks for a couple minutes. Heading in the direction Sky had gone. Figuring it more likely she'll see him before he could ever find her. After a minute or more he begins to wonder if she just let him walk on past her, or if he went in the wrong direction from the get go.*

Stan: "My life as a criminal may very well be a short one... where is she?"

<--------------------<<<<-~~~~(*)~~~~->>>>-------------------->
"True glory consists of doing what deserves to be written, and writing what deserves to be read" Gaius Plinius Secundus

ABBEYGIRL

Wednesday, May 7, 2008 5:13 PM

After she finishes her workout, she cleans up. She styles her hair long and straight and expertly applies her make-up. She dons a pair a red pants and a white shirt. She looks at it in the mirror and decides against it. Next, she tries a form fitting purple dress. Too dressy. She casts it aside. Lastly she decides on a simple, short black suede skirt with a ruffle trimmed burgundy sweater. She finishes it off with mid-calf, heeled black boots. She looks in the mirror and feels confident.

Abbey *to herself*: I wonder if Colt would like this outfit?

Abbey feels silly. Why is she worrying? It’s not like they have even gone on a date. It was just kissing. She smiles. It was good kissing. She decides that one of these days she will ask him what was going on… Or maybe she should wait?

She puts the thought out of her mind and wanders off to the galley for a snack, grabbing some tea and a book as she goes.

STRANGEBIRD

Wednesday, May 7, 2008 8:42 PM

*Not a half second after Stan ponders his fate he hears a snap behind him and to the left. Shortly followed by a voice.*

Sky: "Stan? What, did the captain think I couldn't do this by myself?"

*Stan starts suddenly the turns around.*

Stan: "What? No he just told me he wanted you down there with him for the deal. Trusts you more than me for this sort of thing, ofcourse."

Sky: "Hah, yeah well you don't know how well we really do work together."

Stan: "You mean the Bellerophon job?"

Sky: "You know about that?"

Stan: "Colt just told me the story."

Sky: "Yeah I bet he did, his side anyway."

Stan: "He said he wants you down there with him before Patience gets here. Tell me your side sometime if you like."

*Sky passes him without another word. Stan heads over to the ridge line where he assumes she was watching from and kneels down behind a boulder to watch the deal.*

<--------------------<<<<-~~~~(*)~~~~->>>>-------------------->
"True glory consists of doing what deserves to be written, and writing what deserves to be read" Gaius Plinius Secundus

COLT999

Wednesday, May 7, 2008 11:11 PM

*Sky still looks pissed when she arrives.*

You keep scowling like that your gonna scare off our customer.

*She ignores me. I know what she wants. Guess I should give it to her*

I'm sorry. I know what you’re making it sound like you’re looking after you but we both know your looking after me. And...that’s why I need you here. I didn't invite you, just because you were working for Mallory. You the closest thing to family I got Sky. I thought about asking you when I had the other boat, but I was still pissed at you and wouldn't swallow my pride. When I got this second chance I didn’t want to make the same mistake.

*She kicks the dirt in front of her still trying to be mad at me.*

Sky: So you going to listen to me about this Abbey business?

Prob'ly not. *smiling*

Sky: Didn’t think so.

That a deal breaker?

Sky: I tried to warn you. Now I can watch twist in the wind with a clear conscience. *She smiles back*

*We hear the sound of heavy haulers coming our direction. It's Patience. Three big haulers pull up and 20 men crawl out and form up around her.*

Sky: You’re wrong about this plan of yours, we won’t have to worry about it.

Patience: Captain Colt *looking at the load on the mule* That sure don't look like all my lumber.

Its close by. You got my money.

*She tosses me a bag of coin. I fling it Sky to count, watching Patience the whole time. Her man comes over and inspects the load. He nods and moves back *

Sky: All here. *tossing the bag back*

Patience: Well if you'll tell me the location, Captain, I guess we're done here.

Well not quite. I've heard rumors bout some dealing with you that went bad. So here is how this is going to go down. You’re going to send 2 of these haulers and most of these men north of here. You can radio them the position once were gone. You do that and my sniper will keep his gun trained right on your head until we're well clear of here.

Patience: You mean that sniper?

*I turn to see Stan being lead in at gun point.*

Patience: Captain Colt, I've dealt with some real peckerwoods in my time, but you just moved to the top of the list. This is my moon boy. I make the rules.

*Sky give me her "Your a jackass" look.*

*I raise my hands slowly over my head and trigger the detonator in my hand. The explosion goes off near one of the haulers. Everyone dives for cover except Sky and I. When Patience looks up she sees me over her, pistol trained at her head and second det trigger in my hand.*

This is disappointing. I'd hoped we could do business again. That was just the diversion trigger. This one is rigged to my mule, your load and two more charges planted right under your men. Now this is your moon and you make the rules. So do I blow us all to hell or are you going to take your lumber and let us be on our way.

*She looks like she’s considering the blow us all to hell option but she says we can go. We load a shaken Stan into the mule and watch as her men unload the mule.*

*Once in the mule I look to Sky: Told you it would work.

*I toss the trigger into the back of the mule. Stan closes his eyes as it hits the floor right on the trigger*

Stan *Shocked*: You were bluffing?

Course. Explosives are expensive. Can’t afford that.

*Stan lets out a sigh and slides down in his seat*

*We arrive back at the Book and stow the Mule. Sky and I are heading through the galley laughing*

Did you see the look on his face?

Sky: Yeah I thought he was going to jump out of the mule.

Looked like he was about...*I come to a dead stop as I see Abbey sitting at the table. She looks amazing.*

Sky *Patting me on the shoulder* I'll go tell Wash to prep the ship.

* To Abbey: Hi. You look a...I a...you made tea?

ABBEYGIRL

Wednesday, May 7, 2008 11:28 PM

*abbey sits in the galley’s common seating area reading her book. She sips the tea she has made herself. She looks up briefly to see Colt and Sky come into the room laughing a bit about their caper. She tunes out their conversation and continues thinking. She wonders if he has the same questions about their strange relationship? Or whether he has regretting their last kiss.*

Colt: Hi. You look a...I a...you made tea. *He nervously gets a cup and pours himself some*

abbey *brought out of her thoughts*: Hmm?

Colt: Did you make this?

abbey: Yes. I just got it recently. Hadn’t tried it yet. I like it.

Colt *tastes some of the tea*: Me too. I’m not a huge tea drinker, but this is good.

abbey: It’s a special blend. *she concentrates on her book again as he comes over.*

Colt: Got something on your mind?

abbey: Hmm?

Colt *looking at her suspiciously and he walks even closer to her*: You have something on your mind? Something you’d like to talk about?

abbey: No. Why do you ask?

Colt *reaching down and taking the book from her. He turns it over*: Your book is upside down.

abbey colors in embarrassment. She stands up quickly and finds herself not more than a foot apart from him. She takes the book out of his hand.

abbey: I’m… just… um… tired. I’m tired.

Colt: Are you sure. You feeling OK? *He reaches up and feels her forehead. Her stomach flip-flops. She decides it is now or never.*

abbey *tentatively, looks at the floor*: I have something to ask you, Captain…

Colt: Ask away. *abbey looks around to see if anyone is nearby. Colt smiles slightly.* Should I be nervous?

abbey *getting more nervous by the second*: Ummm… I wanted… to know… *she stops* Never mind. It’s silly.

*Colt looks at her, becoming more puzzled by the moment.*

Colt: It’s obviously weighing on your mind. Just come out with it.

abbey: Well, the other… day. In my… shuttle…*Colt has a will-you-get-to-the-point look on his face. She looks up into his eyes.* Aw, Hell!

abbey drops the book onto the floor, reaches her arms up around his neck and plants a lingering kiss on him. He is surprised at first and doesn’t react. She takes a step back, obviously embarrassed.

abbey *eyes dropping to the floor*: Oh… Well… Sorry…

*She starts to move away from him, but his hand reaches out and wraps around her waist. He pulls her close to him and kisses her back. Her arms return to their grip round his neck and their kisses deepen.*

*Suddenly they hear someone starting to come down from the bridge. Before they arrive, abbey pulls back and looks at Colt. She motions at his face.*

abbey: Lipstick.

*She bolts down a different hallway before anyone sees her. Colt just stands there for a split second before her comment registers and then quickly wipes her lipstick from his mouth.*

ORAM

Thursday, May 8, 2008 6:00 AM

*Both Oram and Mobbex walk in silence, the Merc keeping his distance from the Doc in an attempt to appear that he’s not with her. Oram attempts a few times to engage him in conversation, but he merely shrugs or makes on worded answers. This begins to frustrate her as she likes conversation while walking… turns out she won’t get another word from Mobbex, which she just shrugs decides two can play at this game. After another 15 minutes of uncomfortable silence, they reach the town and walk down the main street to the Pub. They walk into the bar and find it’s relatively quiet, a few burley men in one corner who ignore them outright while a few curious people look towards the stark size difference. Oram ignores this and heads for the bar, giving a winning smile towards the barkeeper*

Oram: So, do you serve food along with the moonshine or just plain gutrot?

*The Barkeeper just glances from Oram to the sour looking Mobbex*

Barkeeper: We don’t do romantic dinners.

Oram: Wasn’t after romantic, just food… preferably dead and cooked. And booze also… lots and lots of booze.

*Mobbex lifts an eyebrow at her back at the insistence of lots of booze.*

Mobbex: 'You positive 'bout that?

Oram: *turns to Mobbex* Hi. You’re talking to me now?

*Mobbex just shrugs*

*Both order what they want, along with their drinks, Mobbex goes to pay for his meal, but Oram cuts in front and pays for the both of them. Mobbex gawks at her, looking torn between his greedy instincts and his need to cater to his sore manliness.*

Mobbex: *finally gets his wits about him* What the hell're y' playin' at?

Oram: *raises her eyebrows somewhat* Nothing. Remember? Debt to be payed?

Girl's shoppin' for a smack on the puss! he thinks to himself.

*She turns from him and heads for a table away from the crowd, Mobbex follows until he realises it has only 2 seats. He grinds his teeth and mumbles something under his breath that Oram can't hear, but is sure it’s vile. She isn’t honestly trying to push his buttons, he seems to be doing it himself. After a while, Mobbex has finished his drink and without a word goes to the bar to get himself another drink. After a few moments, a chair moves across from Oram and she sighs, calling it a truce before it gets to out of hand.*

Oram: Mobbex, listen, I was only pulling a joke at your expanse. I never slept with you and nothing happened… apart from you grabbing me on the arse... which I will rub into your face continually unless you give the ‘cold shoulder act’ up.

Mans voice: Well, I can see why, seeming that you're such a tián pigu li shǔ.

*Oram freezes as she instantly knows it’s not Mobbex's voice, she takes a glance up and sees it's one of the large men from the corner*

Oram: Oh… I am so not your sweet-assed bunny…

*Something flickers on his face and Oram knows she's in deep trouble*

Man: See, missy, when a gentleman compliments a lady, they expect a thankyou.

Oram: *flatly* Unless the person insulted them first.

*The table is surrounded by two or more blokes now and Mobbex is still at the bar apparently talking to a local about Buddha knows what. There is only one exit, and possible another that she can’t see. She stands and grabs her bottle of nearly empty beer, she goes to make her way towards the bar and tell Mobbex they should leave when the main speaker gabs her arm roughly and tightly*

Man: I didn’t say you could leave, did I?

*Without thinking, Oram takes the bottle and smashes it across his face, he howls in pain and rage. One of his lackeys punches her hard in the face before grabbing her hair and dragging her towards the pubs exit*

Oram: *terrified* Wo de tian a… MOB--

Lackey: Shut up, you little bitch!

*He shoves his hand over Oram’s mouth before she can get Mobbex's names out fully, he then picks her up and continues towards the exit, with Oram fighting as best as she can*

COLT999

Thursday, May 8, 2008 7:06 AM

* I wipe the lipstick from my lips and watch Abbey streak down the hall*

Huh.

* Sky walks in and asks about something. I can hear her talking but focusing on what’s she’s saying just aint happening.*

Sky: COLT!

* That shakes me out of it but only for a second*

Sky: Where are we heading?

I...I..Abbey. I told Abbey she could resupply.

Sky: And she said?

*Enthusiastically* I can go ask her.

*For the second time today she gives me her "your a jackass" look and shakes her head.*

* I knock on Abbeys door. She comes to the door and blushes a little when she sees it me. She turns to hide it. I grab her arm gently and pull her to me.
Well... it might complicate things.

Abbey: Yes it will.

*We lay there for a full minute. Each of us thinking about the consequences. *

I kinda like complicated.

Abbey: Me too.

* I lean over her and kiss her . Things are heating up quick when I look up and see the biggest goram rat I ever saw in my life. I grab Abbey and roll off the bed. We crash to the ground, her on top of me.*

Abbey: What are you doing?

Rat...big rat...looked like a gopher.

*she scrambles off of me and looks around the room*

Abbey: I don’t see anything.

It was right there *pointing at the headboard* big sucker.

* Abbey looks at me. Her look surprises me*

Abbey: Jesus Colt, if you changed you mind just say so. I'm a big girl. You don’t have to make anything up.

I aint. There was a gopher...I mean a rat. It was.....watching us.

Abbey: Just get out.

No no wait. No mind changing *she’s pushing me to the door* There was a rat.

Abbey: Out

*The door slams shut behind me.*

That could a gone better.

ABBEYGIRL

Thursday, May 8, 2008 7:53 AM

*abbey stands staring at the door, fuming.*

abbey *to herself*: How dare he? Changes his mind? Nearly broke my arm jumping off the bed. A Rat? What’s with that??? Exactly what is his problem???

abbey decides she needs a drink and turns around. Sitting there in front of the broken refrigerator is the critter in question. abbey screams and runs out of her shuttle, closing the door quickly behind her.

She runs into Colt, who is still standing there, grinning at her. She hides behind him, placing him between her and the door.

Colt: I tried to tell you.

abbey *flustered*: Where in the rutting Hell did that come from and how long has it been in there?

Colt: Must have wandered in during one of your recent games. Had the door open any?

abbey: Didn’t think for long enough for something like… like… THAT coming in. How are we gonna get that thing out?

Colt: Don’t quite know that yet. Never had to deal with something like that. That thing is HUGE!

abbey: I can’t… No... I won’t stay there until that thing is gone.

Colt: Suppose that’s so.

abbey: Then everything needs to be sanitized. Who knows what IT brought in too.

Colt *agreeing*: Suppose that’s true as well.

*abbey is beginning to calm down a bit. She turns him around to face her. All the while keeping a good eye on the door*

abbey *feeling terrible about how she treated him*: I’m sorry I didn’t believe you.

Colt *pulls her back into his arms*: Not sure if I would have either.

abbey *Looking up into his eyes*: So until this is… fixed, where should I sleep?

COLT999

Thursday, May 8, 2008 10:50 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by abbeygirl:
[Babbey *Looking up into his eyes*: So until this is… fixed, where should I sleep?

* The question just hangs out there. I know what answer I want to say but I also know we don't need the grief this crew will lay on us if they find out we're together*

Lets deal with this problem first.*pointing to her shuttle door*

Abbey: You’re going in there?

It's just a rat.

Abbey: Oh, you mean it's just a rat that ran you out of bed a few minutes ago.

It just...surprised me is all. Would have spooked you to if you had seen it first.

Abbey: Do it later *taking my hand*

I can get it now it’s not that bi....*I look down at her hand then slowly gaze up her body to her eyes. She smiles at me and I forget all about the gopher.*

* I hear noise in the galley and look down to see a shadow coming from the dorms. *

*I close my eyes and start running though the ship in my mind, looking for a place we can be alone without the crew seeing us. When I open them I see the port shuttle.*

* We cross the catwalk quickly and quietly. I grab the door handle and wince as the thought of it being jammed again flashes in my mind. I pull the handle and it opens. *

* Inside and the door locked behind us, we each scan the shuttle. A collection of crates, cargo nets and boxes are scattered around the hold.*

* I look at her and shrug my shoulders. She walks over to the crates, turns and smiles.

*Later*

*Holding hands we open the door and look to see if it’s clear. As we step out of the shuttle our hand part as she moves toward the dorm rooms and I head to the bridge.*

*On the bridge*

Sky, look like were heading to Persephone once the Doc and Mobbex are back.

Sky: Wash you have something you want to tell the Captain?

Wash: I got a cat. *uneasy*

Sky: You got a bobcat.

Wash: Yeah it’s a bobcat.

A bobcat? *both of the brace for the barrage they know is about to come* You might want to throw it in Abbey's shuttle seems there a rat loose in there. She'll be staying in the dorm till she gets the place cleaned up. *turning to leave* Once the crew is back on get us in the air.

*Sky and Wash look at each other*

Wash: I thought you said he would be mad?

ABBEYGIRL

Thursday, May 8, 2008 4:10 PM

abbey goes into the passenger dorm that she used to occupy before her shuttle was finished. The bed is stripped of any linens and the room is essentially empty. She looks at the mirror on the wall and smiles. Then notices that her hair is a mussed a bit. She uses her fingers to straighten it out.

She thinks about Colt and is content. For the first time in a long while, she is completely relaxed.

abbey *to herself*: Well, we’ll have to do that more often.

She decides to go up to the galley for another drink. She walks there, smiling and humming as she goes. When she arrives, Colt is leaning up against the counter by the coffee pot. His eyes are closed and a slight smile is on his lips as well.

She looks around and sees no one before crossing the room and placing a soft kiss on his lips. He wraps his arms around her. She sighs.

Colt: You ok with this?

abbey *nodding*: Better than I’ve been in a long while.

Colt *smiling wider*: Good. *He holds her tightly for a few more moments* As much as I’d like to stand here all day like this, someone will eventually come in here.

abbey *parting from him*: Of course, and I’m not ready for this to be common knowledge quite yet.

*She pours herself a glass of tea. It is luke warm but she doesn’t notice.*

Colt: Me either.

abbey: I set myself up in my old room in the passenger dorm. Well kinda… There basically isn’t anything in there but a mattress. *a mischievous grin passes fleetingly across Colt’s face* I’ll need to find some linens.

Colt: Might be some extras in the infirmary. Blankets at least.

abbey *as she starts to leave*: I’d best be seeing to that then.

She quietly leaves the room and heads back to the passenger dorms, leaving Colt to his thoughts.

SHINYBRIT

Thursday, May 8, 2008 7:01 PM

*Brit is sitting on the floor, holding the bobcat and stroking it's fur as Sky and Wash come up to her. Brit looks up at the two of them as she smiles with her teeth*

Brit: His name is Simba.

*Sky and Wash look at each other and chuckle*

Sky: *Looks back at Brit* Well we're gonna need Simba to do us a little favor.

Brit: *She seems uneasy* I will not have her be eaten.

Wash: *Her eyes widen as she shakes her head* No, no! We're not going to eat her!

Brit: I never said it was going to be you...

Sky: Look, little girl. We need you to release that cat into Abbey's shuttle. Captain said somethin' about some giant rat and we need Simba to catch it alright?

Brit: It would be useless.

Sky: *raises and eyebrow* And why is that?

Brit: It's not in there anymore. And even if it was, they wouldn't be gone.

*Sky still has a raised eyebrow and Wash becomes uneasy*

Brit: Simba will die.

Wash: *Begins to panic* Maybe... m-maybe we shouldn't...

Brit: And then all of us will die. *Brit is smiling*

Wash: Oh my God... We're all gonna die!!!

Sky: Wash! *slaps Wash across the face, and Wash holds her hand on her cheek* Snap out of it. The girl was only jokin'.

Brit: No I wasn't. *Brit stands up with Simba in her hands* Fine. I will let him go. *Sky and Wash watch her walk away*

Wash: She freaks me out... hey why didn't you go release the cat into Abbey's shuttle? I thought the Captain told you to do it.

Sky: *Looks at Wash. She's busted* Ah, um, well... he was never specific as to who really had to do it. 'Sides... I ain't goin' near no giant rats... *shudders and walks away, Wash follows*

*Meanwhile Brit arrives at Abbey's shuttle. She looks around for a moment, and then her eyes turn toward the bed that has ruffled up sheets*

Ewwww... *she scrunches her nose. Trying to push the thought out of her mind, she puts Simba down*

Okay Simba. Now don't get eaten. I'm afraid these large rodents aren't very friendly...

*She leaves Simba in the shuttle and walks out and up into the bridge to see Wash and Sky. Sky is drinking hard liquor*

Sky: Hey Brit. You let Simba into Abbey's shuttle, I take it.

Brit: Yes. Simba has been set off into his fate. I think it would have been less painful to just stick him in the freezer.

-----------------------------------------------
"You know what the chain of command is? It's the chain I go get and beat you with until you understand who's in ruttin' command here!" - Jayne Cobb (Firefly)

MOBBEX

Thursday, May 8, 2008 11:30 PM

Mobbex knocks back his drink rather expeditiously, then gets up and makes for the bar.

'Gonna get her some more too, 'faster she's all tanked up, 'faster I can drag her butt outta here'n be done with it.

He makes out familiar gurgling noises exuding from his belly.

"Feelin' a wee bit peckish, too... prolly should try'n grab some eats."

Mobbex, as he comes up to the counter: Y' got vittles?

The Barkeep turns to him and nods toward a bulky stainless steel appliance embedded in the wall behind him.

Mobbex: Shén me shi... ?

Barkeep: *picks up a tumbler and starts wiping it absently* Deep fryer. 'You up for some fries?

Mobbex: *frowns* Fries? Y' mean, like... noodles?

Barkeep, scoffing: Hell no, this rock ain't much for land management. Spuds are pretty much all that sticks in these parts.

Mobbex: *shrugs* Sure, I'll have some. Oh, and a bottle, too...

The Barkeep opens a cupboard and pulls out a demijohn of the local ale.

Mobbex: Yeah, that oughta do it...

A handful of minutes later, the Barkeep is handing him his order.

Mobbex: Many thanks. *drops a small stack of coins on the counter*

He scoops up his plate, tucks the bottle under his arm, and is heading back toward the table when...

Quote:
Originally posted by Oram:
Oram: *terrified* Wo de tian a… MOB--

Lackey: Shut up, you little bitch!

Mobbex feels a deathly fiend arousing in his gut as he witnesses a bunch of locals manhandling Oram across the room.

'Knew this was a rotten idea...

He instantly places the man who seems to be the leader of the group.

Deadeye and Mobbex, in unison: YOU!?

Deadeye: *motions for his cronies to take on Mobbex* You two, get him!

Mobbex's training takes over as the two men stride up to him.

He hurls the bottle in the air, then shoves his plate at the first guy's face, knocking him back, before spinning around and using his momentum to strike the other one in the gullet with the knife edge of his hand. The man is swept off the ground by the sheer force of the blow and lands hard on his back. Mobbex then grabs the remaining man by the collar of his shirt and head butts him squarely on the nose before holding out his hands to catch the falling bottle.

Deadeye, who now has his arms folded around Oram, has his attention diverted by the beating his underlings are taking. Oram chooses this moment to stretch her mouth open and bite a chunk out of the fleshy tissue between the thumb and index fingers of his right hand. He yelps in pain and lets her fall to the ground. She tries to get to her feet, but Deadeye grabs her by the scruff of her neck and rams her head against the floor, knocking her out.

Mobbex sets the bottle on the ground and walks up to Deadeye.

Mobbex: Y're either soft in the head or's pigheaded as my long departed ol' man! Either way, y' crossed me twice in the space of a day, so... *lays a hand over his leg holster and pulls out Tearjerker* Say cheese!

Deadeye's face takes on an ashy pallor.

Deadeye: *takes a couple of steps backward* Hey look, huh, I... m'sure we can talk this through...

Mobbex: Sorry, I ain't in the mood *hoists up his weapon and shoots him point blank in the head*

The round sends the top half of Deadeye's head flying in multiple directions.

Mobbex holsters his piece, then leans down next to Oram and picks her off the floor.

Mobbex: Mi tian gohn! 'A gal y're bigness, one'd think you'd be a mite lighter...

He swings her onto his broad back and eases her into a piggyback position before heading out the door.

Brit: Steadfast stares and yet he's but a sheep amongst lions. What exactly am I? Oh, wait, that's right... I'm insane...

STRANGEBIRD

Friday, May 9, 2008 1:43 AM

*After returning to the ship Stan heads straight to his dorm.*

"Well now, that was a bit of fun I won't forget for awhile.... the Captain is one brilliant son of a..."

*He unzips and shrugs off his coveralls then lies down on his mattress and picks up his data book. Accessing his personal files he cues up some classical music. The strum of a single guitar quietly fills the small room. Followed by a mans voice.*

"Old pirates yes they rob I. Sold I to the merchant ships. Minutes after they...."

*Within seconds he's out cold.*

-< Roughly an hour or so later >-

*The ship is quiet. Stan wakes up in a cold sweat, grabs his coveralls and heads to the shower. Ten minutes later he's climbing the stairs towards the aft-hallway. He catches a bit of shadow moving out of the corner of his left eye, near the inner-bulkhead door leading to Water-storage and reclamation. He pauses, leaning closely and squinting at the shadowed corner.*

"There's nothing there. Just an empty, dark corner of a decades old ship."

Stan: *Turning and muttering quietly to himself* "What the HELL is wrong with this ship?"

*He shakes his head and reminds himself he's had a pretty eventful day and moves on to the galley to find something to eat.*

<--------------------<<<<-~~~~(*)~~~~->>>>-------------------->
"True glory consists of doing what deserves to be written, and writing what deserves to be read" Gaius Plinius Secundus

ORAM

Friday, May 9, 2008 6:51 AM

*The nights cool air helps bring Oram’s blinding headache into contrast, along with the nausea that’s starting to threaten to overcome her*

Oram: *more than half groggily* Mobb… drop me.

Mobbex: Nope, need to get back to the ship before the go se hits the fan. You're in no state to run, let alone walk.

Oram: *forcefully* Unless you want me to start bringing up what I had….

*Mobbex stops, and lets Oram slide down off his back. She makes her way, and lets it all go behind a bush. After a moment or two she grabs a hanky and wipes her mouth, before discarding it on the ground, she walks back towards Mobbex, but her gait is slightly unsteady*

Mobbex: You ain’t gonna go all ‘blackout’ on me again?

Oram: *shaking her head slightly, closing her eyes at the pain* I don’t think so, it’s only with my own blood…. *she pauses for a few seconds, trying to get her scattered thoughts together* What happened in there?

Mobbex: You got ganged. They tried to take ya put back for a private chat and threw the law at them. They didn’t like it, so they went to drag ya. Thinks got to waltzing and Deadeye rammed ya head to the floor.

Oram: What happened to the guy?

Mobbex: Huh? Well, I offed him. Shot square in the face, blew the top of his head right off. Ruttin' inbred moron wouldn't even have a go at makin' a run for it. Might've made things a lil' more interesting. Executions get so tedious once you've done enough o' them...

*Oram watches him for a few moments before giving a smile*

Oram: So… he’s got a bigger headache than me?

Mobbex: *chuckling* You could say that… We need to get goin’.

Oram: I don’t hear a mob coming after us.

Mobbex: Fine, but if we’re shot, I blame you.

Oram: As you would.

*As they walk along she refuses to get back onto Mobbex's back, saying the walking is helping with the nausea. He walks besides her, Oram having grabbed the back of his t-shirt as a means of keeping up with his stride, if it bothers the Merc, he doesn’t say anything about it. After more than half an hour they both see the outline of their ship and both head for the infirmary*

ABBEYGIRL

Friday, May 9, 2008 7:35 AM

*abbey searches through the cupboards in the infirmary looking for linens. She finds a thin blanket and a single sheet.*

abbey: This will just have to do.

*As she is leaving the infirmary, she looks up and sees Mobbex and a battered Oram walk up the ramp. She drops the linens on the floor of the hallway and rushes out to them.*

abbey: What in the Hell happened?

Mobbex *getting defensive*: I didn’t start this! Just made sure she got out of it.

Oram *softly*: abbey, I’m allright.

abbey: You don’t look allright.

*She leads Oram into the infirmary. Mobbex follows and stands in the doorway. Under the harsher light, the bruising is easily seen. Oram also sports a small gash on her forehead.*

abbey *starting to look for some first aid items*: Let’s get you cleaned up.

Oram: In the second drawer to the left.

*abbey locates the items needed and moves back to attend to Oram. She starts cleaning the blood from the cut off Oram’s face, as well as the dust and dirt from the pub’s floor that was also mixed into the wound.*

abbey *trying to smile*: It’s a good thing you didn’t notice the cut on your head, or Mobbex would have had to carry you all the way back. *She turns to Mobbex.* Thank you for looking after her.

Mobbex *grunts*: Someone had to. *He pauses.* You got everything? If so, I’m gonna tell the Captain we’re back. We probably should get off this rock. ‘Tween the fight earlier and this one, we might not be welcome much longer.

*abbey nods at Mobbex and he leaves. She finishes cleaning Oram up by placing some butterfly bandages across the wound.*

abbey: I don’t know how to do weaves. These butterflies will have to do.

Oram: I’m sure it will be fine. *Oram yawns and lies back onto the bed.*

abbey *quietly*: What happened?

Oram: Someone got too fresh, got offended when they heard the word “no.”

abbey *in a pained voice*: What makes some men think that they can take what they want?

Oram *patting abbey’s hand*: This isn’t the same as that. Just some wang ba dan who thought he was due something. *Oram’s eyes were at half-mast now.*

abbey *kisses Oram’s forehead*: You go on and rest, mei mei. I’ll wake you in a bit.

*Oram smiles slightly and drifts off to sleep. abbey pulls up a chair and tries to get comfortable.*

COLT999

Friday, May 9, 2008 8:11 PM

I’m crawling up my bunk ladder with a box on my head when Mobbex sees me*

Mobbex: Colt! We got to get in the air.

Easy there. Don’t recall you becoming Captain. *smile on my face*

Mobbex: Ain’t playing Captain. Had to shoot a man.

* setting down the box* Shoot a man? What for?

Mobbex: I ain’t said nothing ‘bout it to the others, but when he hit the floor I seen a badge. Must a been the local deputy.

What the hell happened?

Mobbex: He was after the Doc. Trying to force himself on her. So I put him down.

She ok?

Mobbex: Is she ok? Didn’t you hear me? I shot a lawman. They could be heading this way right now.

Settle down. Where’s Doc.

Mobbex: Infirmary. We got to go. They’ll be coming.

Well you had a good reason but, don’t expect we’ll convince em of that. Tell Wash to take off.

*I head to the infirmary to check on the Doc. Abbey is there. She puts a finger to her lips and nods to Oram who is asleep.*

*Quietly* How is she?

Abbey: I think she’ll be ok. She’s shaken up a bit.

*I lean over Oram and look at the bandage* You do that?

*Abbey nods*

Not bad. * I set the box down next to her. She raises an eyebrow inquisitively* Oh these are for you. Just some stuff for you room.

*She opens he box. There is a thick blanket, sheets, a small reading lamp and a book. She holds the book up and looks at me*

Thought you might want to do some more upside down reading.

Abbey: *smiling* How thoughtful of you.

*I move beside her and touch her hand.* I need to go make sure we don’t get arrested before we take off. Seems Mobbex might a shot someone important on this rock.

Abbey: I’d like to see you later.

*I smile at her* Count on it.

LTSHEPARD

Saturday, May 10, 2008 12:52 AM

(OOC: This is to all VFF Crew members, I would appreciate to be updated for my bulletins on major activities that have happened in the past week - My email is mel_dennett@hotmail.com )

98% of teens have smoked pot, if you are one of the 2% that haven't, copy this into your signature.

Abbey: Words have gender in German, Italian, Spanish, etc.
Mobbex: : Yeah
Abbey: English is unisex
Stan: English is bi-sexual.

SPOTS74

Saturday, May 10, 2008 1:28 AM

(Colt heading back up to the bridge to talk to Wash, hes focused on other things)

**Spots siting at the table reading***

Spots:shes ready to go.. Mobbex getting us in trouble

again? **not looking up from his book***

Colt:BAHHA!!! **stopping abrutly in his traks suprised by Spots'statement

Colt: Jesus... dont do that.. ok good **responding** ...hey i havent heard the cello in a while?

**Spots holding up his broken left arm and wiggling his fingers showing off his cast***

Colt: o right, you seem to be keeping busy

Spots: Im catching up on some reading specifically about pirates on earth that was... im finding a lot of parallels with our lot.

Colt:Really *raising his eye brow*

Spots: well a lot of them were pushed to the edge of the known world and did what ever they could survive. mostly robbing, killing, and raiding

Colt: well sounds like hours of fun but we need to get off this rock so later.

Spots: later

(Colt quickly walks off to the bridge)

STRANGEBIRD

Saturday, May 10, 2008 3:03 AM

*Stan is in the kitchen, ripping open a heated bag of instant grits and pouring them over his protein mash. Spots is still sitting at the table reading.*

Stan: "Next stop I'm picking up some better provisions... this crap is getting old."

Spots: *Not looking up from his book* "Amen to that."

*He glances over at the book infront of Spots.*

Stan: "Pirates huh? I can see that analogy after the deal back there. And agree with it."

Spots: "We're all just a bunch of wannabe buccaneers."

*Stan picks up his bowl and heads out to eat in his room.*

Stan: *On his way out* "Arrrr."

"Bunch of low-down pirates, indeed."

<--------------------<<<<-~~~~(*)~~~~->>>>-------------------->
"True glory consists of doing what deserves to be written, and writing what deserves to be read" Gaius Plinius Secundus

ABBEYGIRL

Saturday, May 10, 2008 10:25 PM

*abbey takes the box Colt had given her and goes back to her dorm. She puts the lamp and the book on the nightstand. She puts the sheets and blanket on the bed. She stands back and inspects her work.*

abbey *to herself*: That’s better than the thin blanket and sheet I found.

*She picks up the book and lays down to enjoy it, but falls asleep in just minutes. When she wakes, it is hours later. She decides to go check on Oram. When she gets there, Oram is murmuring in her sleep.*

Oram: no… go away…

*abbey frowns. Oram shouldn’t have had to deal with tonight’s events. abbey thinks back to some of the things that had happened in her past. She wonders why some people feel entitled to whatever they want. She feels the muscles in her shoulders and back start to tighten. abbey sighs. She turns back to Oram, who is still agitated.*

Oram: leave me alone…

*abbey taps her shoulder lightly and Oram flies awake. abbey jumps back, startled.*

abbey: You OK? You were talking in your sleep.

Oram *guarded*: What did I say?

abbey: Nothing much, just memories from tonight I suppose. You OK?

Oram *sitting up quickly*: Yeah. Memories. *She rubs her forehead.* I think I’m going back to my bunk.

abbey: That a good idea?

Oram: I’m awake. I have a nasty headache, but I just want to be in my own room.

abbey: You sure?

Oram *a little too shortly*: I’m fine. *Without saying another word, Oram grabs a couple of painkillers and heads back to her bunk.*

*abbey is left in her wake. The relaxed feeling she was enjoying earlier is gone. It has been replaced by tension in her shoulders and neck. She doesn’t feel like going back to her temporary quarters. She decides to head up to the galley and see what she can find there. She is not sure what she wants, but maybe something will trip her trigger.*

*When she gets to the top of the stairs, she nearly runs into Brit.*

abbey: Sorry, Brit, I didn’t see you. *Brit smiles at her.* Is there anything left over from dinner?

Brit *pats abbey on her shoulder, ignoring her question*: Most everyone is asleep. ‘Cept for Wash. She’s taking the night shift on the bridge.

abbey *puzzled by her statement*: OK…

Brit *as she moves past abbey*: And the Captain. He is in his bunk.

abbey *gapes at Brit*: Wha-?

*Brit continues down the stairs, giggling just a bit.*

*abbey shakes her head and continues up to the galley. When she gets inside, she realizes what... no who... she really wants.*

Quote:
Originally posted by Colt999:
Abbey: I’d like to see you later.

*I smile at her* Count on it.

*Without stopping she goes into the crew hallway. Thankfully, the door to the bridge is closed. She walks to Colt’s door, which is unlocked, kicks it open and climbs down the ladder as best she can in a skirt and heeled shoes. She closes it behind her and locks it. She turns to see Colt looking at her as he sits on his bed, sill clothed but shirt open, with a book in his hand. He puts the book down on the floor and stands up.*

Colt *as she closes the gap between them*: Is something wrong?

abbey *as she stops in front of him*: No. I just… wanted to see you.

*She looks up into his face, then steps a little closer. They stare into each other’s eyes. abbey leans up and kisses him. It doesn’t take long before his shirt is off and they fall into his bed.*

Colt *softly*: I guess I’ll overlook the not knocking issue…

COLT999

Monday, May 12, 2008 5:26 PM

Abbey: I was about to send out a search party. *She looks at the bowl* Is that real beef?

Perks of being Captain. Flash frozen, had it tucked in a hidey hole near the outer hull, keeps it that way.

*I sit next to her on the bed. She wraps the blanket a round her and picks up the chop sticks. When the meal is done she takes the bowl and sets it on the night stand. *

Abbey: What are your thoughts about telling the crew?

Bout my secret stash of fresh beef? Not going to happen.

*She slaps my playfully.* Abbey: You know what I mean.

Best keep it to our selves for a time. Cept Sky.

Abbey: And Oram.

Doc? Why tell the Doc.?

She’s my friend. If you’re telling Sky. I should be able to tell Oram.

Didn’t say I was telling anyone anything, but if I did, Sky would need to know. She’s 1st mate. She needs to know the working of things. Doc don’t need to unless you’re hiding something I should know about.

Abbey: What do you mean by that?

Nothing I just don’t see the point of telling the Doc.

Abbey: There’s a big surprise you missing the point.

Hey no need to go there.

Abbey: You’re right. I just need to go.

*She gets up and starts to dress. *

Abbey wait. Listen we won’t tell anyone for now.

Abbey: It’s late I need to get back.

*I watch her crawl up the ladder. Damn how does this always happen? I sit back down on my bunk contemplating going after her when I see a strange site. The chop sticks are floating. Seconds later I’m floating.
What the hell is going on? No sooner than I think that the gravity returns dropping me in my bunk. I hear a squeal in the hallway above. Abbey. I start towards the ladder and it happens again. I grab the rail and pull. I shoot up to the hall way where I see Abbey. She is floating the hall trying desperately to keep her skirt from floating up.*

I bet you’re wishing you had fully dressed before you left.

COLT, GET ME DOWN.

Guess I can’t have you mooning all the crew. *I push off the wall and float towards her. The gravity returns. We both fall to the ground. I move to her side and take her hand*

Are you ok?

*Mobbex crawls out of his bunk*

Mobbex: What the hell going on here?

*I look up like my hand just been caught in the cookie jar. * Nothing. I was just checking to see if she was ok.

Mobbex: I meant with the ship.

Oh…oh that. I was about to find out. Help Abbey to her room and get Spots to find out what the hell is going on. I’ll be on the bridge.

*As I’m heading to the bridge it happens again. I hear Abbey scream again as it starts and can barely make out Mobbex comment.*

Mobbex: Hell Abbey, I didn’t take you for the sort not to wear undies.

ABBEYGIRL

Monday, May 12, 2008 8:27 PM

*abbey shoots a glare at Mobbex and he wolfishly grins at her.*

abbey *angrily*: Nimen de bizui!

Mobbex: Shutting the hell up isn’t going to fix the fact you ain’t wearin’ nothing under that skirt.

*The gravity returns again and abbey falls to the floor, turning her ankle when she lands.*

abbey: Gorram it! *Mobbex starts towards her to help her but she pulls off her boot and throws it at him.* Leave me alone!

*The gravity fails again and abbey resumes floating. She screams, finds a hand hold and pulls herself out to the cargo bay where she nearly goes right over the rail. She barely gets herself righted when it returns again, this time she lands solidly. She takes the other boot off and throws it angrily on the catwalk. The pain in her ankle is almost gone. It wasn’t a bad turn.*

*The gravity fails again. She quickly grabs hold of the rail to keep herself from floating over top of the cargo bay. She looks at her own shuttle, contemplating whether or not to go there, but dealing with a floating rat gopher doesn’t thrill her. She looks down toward the passenger dorms and decides that being on the catwalks over the cargo bay where she could flash half the crew was not good either. She looks for the nearest place where she could be private. She sees the port shuttle and makes a bee-line for it. When she gets in there, it is a mess of floating boxes, crates and nets. She grabs a large cargo net and pushes her way to the front of the shuttle. The gravity returns and a large crate nearly misses landing on her. When she gets to the front, she affixes the cargo net across the front of the shuttle protecting her from the contents of the shuttle in case they lose gravity again. For good measure she straps herself into the pilot’s seat.*

Quote:
Originally posted by Colt999:
Nothing I just don’t see the point of telling the Doc.

abbey *to herself*: The nerve of that man. He wants to tell Sky, but I can’t tell Oram? She’s all I got left from that life. He doesn’t know what she means to me… *she stops mid-thought. Her anger dissipates a mite.* He doesn’t know. How could he understand?

Quote:
Originally posted by Colt999:
Abbey wait. Listen we won’t tell anyone for now.

abbey *smacking herself in the forehead lightly*: I’m an idiot.

*She knows she needs to find him and apologize, but decides against doing it again until they have fixed the gravity.*

Quote:
Originally posted by Colt999:
I could get use to this.

*The truth is that she could get used to it too. She smiled. It had been a long time since she felt this way. It was nice to be close to someone. She hadn’t let anyone, let alone a man, get this close in a long time. How had he managed it in the short time they’d known each other? She looked behind her at the contents of the port shuttle. The port shuttle. The first place they were… Her smile widened. Then it fades just as fast.*

*Her heart began to pound. She had done something that can change everything. What was she thinking? This could put her in danger. No, it could put him in danger. What was she going to do? She flicks a few switches on the console and the cortex comes up. She places a wave. Grayson’s face comes up on the screen.*

Grayson *happily*: abbey! How are you!

abbey *pensive*: Grayson, I might have done something…

*Grayson looks at her for a moment. It doesn’t take long for him to suss out the reason for her call.*

Grayson: You and the Captain?

abbey: Captain? How’d you know he was the Captain?

Grayson: I make it my business to know. Why didn’t you tell me Oram was on the crew of the Book?

abbey: You didn’t ask. *Grayson smirked* Anyway, I’m not waving you to talk about Oram.

Grayson: You want to talk about the Captain?

abbey: yes… no… Oh I don’t know. It’s just new.

Grayson: New? Seems like you guys were already dancing around each other long before I scheduled that game with you.

abbey: We just fought a lot at

STRANGEBIRD

Tuesday, May 13, 2008 3:48 AM

*Stan is lying on his back, his bowl with a couple spoonfuls left of the foul protein mash and grits sits abandoned beside his mattress. The lights are off and he's reading a novel on his databook. With a light groan he sets the book down beside him and reaches for his glasses. He takes them off and places them on his chest, lightly massaging the sides of his nose.*

Stan: "Uh sinuses..."

*He glances down and reaches for the his databook. For a second he thinks he's either dreaming or just very tired. As he touches the thin black device it flies easily from his fingers. Spinning slowly across the room and tapping lightly against the wall.*

Stan: "Auê!`Ano `ê...?"

*He grabs his glasses and tries to sit up, sending himself straight up from his mattress. Caught completely unaware his head thumps against the ceiling of the small dorm.*

Stan: "What the... hell..YOW!?"

*He drops onto his back on the mattress. Blinking and rubbing his head. He stands up quickly but as carefully as he can, grabbing at the wall for support. He moves quickly to the door and looks out. Just as the gravity fails again and he stumbles forward reaching for the ladder.*

"This is so not a fun day."

<--------------------<<<<-~~~~(*)~~~~->>>>-------------------->
"True glory consists of doing what deserves to be written, and writing what deserves to be read" Gaius Plinius Secundus

MOBBEX

Tuesday, May 13, 2008 1:57 PM

Mobbex awakes as he feels a slight thrust on his nose.

Mobbex: ...Ugh?

He then becomes aware of the fact that he is laying face down on the ceiling.

Mobbex: Wh... *notices that his belongings and furniture are also defying gravity; makes a face* Oh, y' gotta be shin' me...

He shifts his position and leans his legs against the nearest bulkhead, meaning to propel himself across the room and toward the ladder, when the gravity suddenly returns.

Mobbex: Gorraaaaaaaam...

He drops like a rock, bounces off his bunk, and lands hard on his bottom.

Mobbex, rubbing his tender end: Someone's gonna get it... *rises to his feet and and climbs his way up the ladder to the fore hallway*

Quote:
: Originally posted by Colt999:
Mobbex: What the hell going on here?

*I look up like my hand just been caught in the cookie jar. * Nothing. I was just checking to see if she was ok.

Mobbex: I meant with the ship.

Oh…oh that. I was about to find out. Help Abbey to her room and get Spots to find out what the hell is going on. I’ll be on the bridge.

*As I’m heading to the bridge it happens again. I hear Abbey scream again as it starts and can barely make out Mobbex comment.*

Mobbex: Hell Abbey, I didn’t take you for the sort not to wear undies.

Quote:
Originally posted by Abbeygirl:
*abbey shoots a glare at Mobbex and he wolfishly grins at her.*

abbey *angrily*: Nimen de bizui!

Mobbex: Shutting the hell up isn’t going to fix the fact you ain’t wearin’ nothing under that skirt.

*The gravity returns again and abbey falls to the floor, turning her ankle when she lands.*

abbey: Gorram it! *Mobbex starts towards her to help her but she pulls off her boot and throws it at him.* Leave me alone!

Mobbex: *ducks to dodge the flying footwear* All right, suit y'rself! *turns about and makes a beeline for the crew quarters*

'Girl needs to get laid, he thinks to himself.

He has made his way halfway up the stairs to the upper deck when the gravity fades again. He firmly grips the handrail and drags himself the rest of the way.

T'is gettin' tiresome...

He makes it to Spots' quarters as the GWA kicks back in and vigorously lays into the hatch.

Mobbex: Spots! *thumps the hatch* Get your arse outta bed, 'boat needs some seeing to!

Brit: Steadfast stares and yet he's but a sheep amongst lions. What exactly am I? Oh, wait, that's right... I'm insane...

COLT999

Tuesday, May 13, 2008 6:41 PM

*I work my way onto the bridge. Wash is strapped in with a half dozen plastic dinos floating around her head. *

*Gravity*

Ow *As an unseen dino hits me in the head* I see the migration is taking a new turn.

Wash: Sorry Captain. They are wandering a bit more than usual.

Any idea what’s going on?

Wash: No. I tired shutting off the AG from up here. Thought it would be better than this on and off stuff, but no luck.

*No Gravity*

*I float over to my seat and strap in.*

How’s it affecting flight?

Wash: It’s a bear when it kicks back in but I’m handling it.

I haven’t noticed anything.

Wash: *Grinning* That’s because you hired the best.

*Gravity*

*The ship shudders violently*

Wash: The best when she’s paying attention.

* I unstrapped and move to the com.*

Well just keep doing what your doing till we get it fixed.

*No Gravity*

*On the Com* This is the Captain you may have noticed you feel a little lighter than usual. It ain't because your eating healthier. We seem to be experiencing an Artificial Gravity problem.
I want Mobbex and Stan to secure as much as possible, make sure nothings going to hurt my ship when it kicks back in. Sky I need you on the bridge. Abbey, Doc and Brit to the Infirmary. Get there and strap in till we suss out the problem. I’ll be in the engine room with Spots. Stan when you get things secure we may need an extra set of hands.

*I’m pulling myself along the floor plates towards the engine room, when I see Brit. She’s…dancing? She is smiling as she spins to the ceiling and kicks off into a flip and starts to float back to the floor*

*Gravity*

*She land perfectly on the floor. I kiss the plating with my forehead.*

This what you were talking about? Parts don’t fit?

*She nods*

Can Spots fix it?

Brit: Of course he can, given sufficient time. He just had to know what was wrong first.

*No Gravity*

*We float. Her gracefully. Me not so much.*

Guess I should a listened to you.

Brit: That’s ok this is fun

*Taking her hand* Fun as it may be, it’s also dangerous. Get down to the infirmary and strap in.

*She sticks her tongue out at me, but heads to the infirmary.*

STRANGEBIRD

Tuesday, May 13, 2008 10:01 PM

Colt: *Over Comm* "...I want Mobbex and Stan to secure as much as possible, make sure nothings going to hurt my ship when it kicks back in..."

*Stan has slowly made his way to the infirmary door when he hears the captains voice. He turns and moves slowly, close to the walls and handholds to the cargo hold. Hoping the entire time that the next gravity hiccup doesn't totally screw with the stability and every one ends up falling to a different "floor" each time it re-engages. As he enters the hold Mobbex is moving along the catwalk at a steady pace as the gravity yet again fails and he propels himself nearly into the bulkhead.*

Mobbex: "You hear the captain? Says we need to safe anything ain't bolted down."

Stan: "Gotcha, what'd we use?"

*Mobbex pushes himself quickly over the catwalk-bridge rail and is about a meter of the deck when the gravity returns.*

Mobbex: "Whaaah. Sht!"

*He lands unharmed but not so gracefully on the lower deck. Standing he points to a locker. Inside Stan takes a tangled mass of rope, elastic cables and thick rough strapping and a battered metal box of metal clamps. They set about securing the various crates and boxes of supplies and miscellaneous gear.*

Mobbex: "Stan get over here and help me with this big one. Stand over there."

*Just as Stan moves around behind the large crate the gravity fails and a small ball of fur drifts up and away from where it was hiding behind a pile of old boxes. The prairie dog's little legs attempting to run despite the lack of anything beneath them.*

Mobbex: "Uh.. Stan just stay back there, keep it steady. I need to get a longer.. strap thing."

*Mobbex looks around the room, glancing everywhere for some way to fix this before Stan sees the rodent flying around. Spotting a pile of old sacks held down by some crates and cords he pushes himself off in that direction and yanks one out. Propelling himself towards the furry critter he opens the sack and scoops it up.*

"What the hell is taking him so long, that strap was long enough."

Stan: *Leaning around the side of the crate* "What are you doing? We're lucky this thing is still wedged against the stairs as it is."

Mobbex: "Yeah.. *Glancing at the writhing sack mostly concealed by his bulk from Stans view*.. I'm coming already, hold it."

*Mobbex shoves the sack roughly between the nearest two boxes just as the gravity returns. luckily he was near to the floor and hardly loses his balance this time. They finish securing the last crate and move up the stairs towards water storage.*

Mobbex: "I got this you just head on up to the Engine room like captain said..." *He glances back worriedly over his shoulder*

*Stan peers quizzically at him*

Stan: "You sure? Those tanks can be heavy."

Mobbex: "Yeah. Just get, probably all secured anyhow. I just gotta check."

*Stan moves off towards the stairs, gripping the railing to keep from floating off as the gravity fails again. As he reaches the steps he braces himself with his feet wide and his hands flat on both walls.*

"What's next? Killer space rats?"

*Stan remembers the furry shadows he's been seeing and glances warily around..*

"What am I doing? I'm just stressed is all, new experience and what not. I just need some time off the ship without guns and fighting."

*He continues on to the engine room.*

<--------------------<<<<-~~~~(*)~~~~->>>>-------------------->
"True glory consists of doing what deserves to be written, and writing what deserves to be read" Gaius Plinius Secundus

ABBEYGIRL

Tuesday, May 13, 2008 10:09 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Colt999:
Abbey, Doc and Brit to the Infirmary.

abbey gets on the comm. She reaches Colt on the portable one he is carrying with him. He is in the engine room overseeing Spot’s work.

abbey: Colt, I am already strapped into the cockpit of the port shuttle. I think I’ll just stay here.

Colt: No. That’s too dangerous. There are crates and boxes and stuff in there.

abbey: I tied a cargo net behind me to keep them back.

Colt: It could break. They aren’t built to take the this kind of abuse. I don’t want to take a chance. Plus, I’d like to have everyone in groups so you can help each other out if needed. Would you mind making your way down to the infirmary?

abbey: But I can stay here. I’m perfectly safe. I don’t really need any help.

Colt: It’s an order. As Captain of this ship, I want you to be down in the infirmary with the others.

abbey *defiantly*: I’m not on your crew. Can’t order me around.

Colt *sighing in frustration*: abbey…

abbey *getting to the real reason*: But my skirt!

Colt smiled at that one. The thought of watching her as she fought with her skirt all the way down to the cargo bay was a bit of a temptation, but he had more pressing things to attend to. He backed into the hallway for some privacy.

Colt *whispering*: Will you do it for me? Please?

abbey *pausing first, then conceding softly*: OK. For you. *returns back to her regular voice.* But if I end up mooning everyone, I’m gonna hold you responsible.

Colt *chuckling*: Duly noted, but I have to remind you of the facts. I wasn’t the one who left my undies in your room. You brought this on yourself.

*abbey snorted at him. After a pause, he heard her speak.*

abbey: Colt?

Colt: Yeah?

abbey: I’m really sorry for earlier. It’s just that Oram and I go back a long way. Been through a bunch together. Can we talk about her and Sky later?

Colt: I’d like that.

abbey: Me too.

abbey switched off the comm and looked back into the shuttle. One of the ties to the cargo net had broken.

abbey: OK, so maybe not so safe.

The gravity returned and everything hit the floor. As quick as she could, she started climbing over them in order to get to the door before things got to be floating again.

abbey *making a mental note to herself*: Things to do after this mess is fixed… 1) find boots. 2) retrieve undies. 3) make up with Colt.

*She smiled at the last one.*

ORAM

Wednesday, May 14, 2008 8:29 AM

*Oram wakes with a sudden jolt, her head is in agony but she feels that something isn’t right, she lays there for a second waiting for whatever it is…. Then, she feels herself begin to lift off the mattress. Not sure what to do, she grabs anything to anchor her to a spot. Which turns out to be a connection of some sort to the roof. Just as she grabs it the gravity kicks back in and Oram is left hanging by the ceiling, this happens a few times, her grip becoming more tighter as the gravity kicks back in*

Oram: *closing her eyes at how high she is* Hello? Anybody? … I'd like to get down now…

*The com then switches on and the Captains voice is heard*

Colt: This is the Captain you may have noticed you feel a little lighter than usual. It ain't because your eating healthier. We seem to be experiencing an Artificial Gravity problem.
I want Mobbex and Stan to secure as much as possible, make sure nothings going to hurt my ship when it kicks back in. Sky I need you on the bridge. Abbey, Doc and Brit to the Infirmary. Get there and strap in till we suss out the problem. I’ll be in the engine room with Spots. Stan when you get things secure we may need an extra set of hands.

*When the com clicks back off, the gravity fails again and Oram take the opportunity to quickly make her way to the infirmary, the bright light stinging as she enters, hurriedly she grabs all currently floating objects and shoves them into various draws and cupboards, before pulling herself onto a chair and strapping herself down, waiting the situation out*

Oram: This mini-adventure is gonna suck…

*She then lays her head back and begins to doze*

SHINYBRIT

Wednesday, May 14, 2008 3:09 PM

*Brit floats around and does a sommersalt in the air, she notices something and pushes herself downwards as the gravity switches back on again. A large smile crawls across her face as she begins to run and leap into the air as the gravity shuts off once again and she pretends to swim as she makes her way to the infirmary. On the way, she sees Simba floating recklessly, trying to find his way to the ground again. Brit pushes herself off the wall and catches Simba in the air before the gravity shuts off again and she falls, rolling so she doesn't get hurt. She continues to walk to the infirmary and eventually makes it there and straps herself in with Simba before the gravity turns back on. She sees Oram as she enters*

Hello Oram. *A large smile crosses her face, Simba suddenly coming out of the strap and floating into the air again. Brit grabs Simba before he gets too high*

Simba likes to fly. It's so unfortunate that he doesn't have wings. It seems he should have been born to fly. Like StrangeBird.

-----------------------------------------------
"You know what the chain of command is? It's the chain I go get and beat you with until you understand who's in ruttin' command here!" - Jayne Cobb (Firefly)

COLT999

Wednesday, May 14, 2008 5:16 PM

* Even one armed, Spots is the best mechanic I’ve seen. He directs Stan and me, as we work on a fix. After the first hour, the on and off problem is solved. We float around the engine room improvising a part to complete the repair. Another hour later and the artificial gravity, is restored. *

*I get on the com and deliver the news to the crew, then head for the bridge. I see the mess in the galley the failure has caused. Pots, pans and food stuffs are all over the floor. I imagine the rest of the ship isn’t any better.*

*On the bridge*

Wash, how long till we hit Persephone?

Wash: Should be on the ground in an hour. We got work here?

Well we didn’t. Abbey was just restocking. But seeing how my boat is a wreck, I guess we’ll be doing some spring cleaning.

ABBEYGIRL

Wednesday, May 14, 2008 8:06 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Colt999:
Another hour later and the artificial gravity, is restored.

*I get on the com and deliver the news to the crew, then head for the bridge.*

abbey: Thank God!

*She straightens out her skirt and starts up the catwalk. About halfway up, she finds one of her boots wedged in between the bulkhead and one of the rails. With some effort, she pulls it free and places it on her foot. She goes on upstairs to the galley and finds the other one under the table. She crawls underneath the table and grabs it. As she backs up from underneath the table, she spots Mobbex leaning up against the wall, admiring her backside. She stands up and glares at him.*

abbey *cooly*: I’d suggest you take those eyes elsewhere.

*Mobbex merely shrugs and wanders off. She slips her other boot on and hears Colt’s voice coming from the bridge. She walks towards the sound and sees him exiting the bridge. She smiles at him.*

Colt *smiling too*: We’ll be on Persephone in about an hour, if you want to get ready to collect what you need.

abbey: OK. I need to collect something from you first. *Colt looks at her puzzled. She motions toward his bunk with her head. He still doesn’t get it. She rolls her eyes and leans forward to whisper in his ear.* I need my underwear.

Colt *suddenly standing up straighter and looking around to see if there is anyone nearby*: Oh. I’ll go find them. Can you wait… somewhere… not here?

abbey: Oh… of course. *She steps back a couple of steps and looks toward the galley.* I actually think I’m going to brave going into my shuttle. Can’t be wearing the same set of clothes again.

Colt: Well, I’ll get… you know… and I’ll meet you there. Wait for me and I’ll help you.

abbey *smiling*: That would be nice. I’ll see you there.

*They go their separate ways. abbey waits outside the entrance to her shuttle. It takes for what seemed like an eternity before Colt shows up. His one hand is shoved into his pocket while the other one holds a long stick.*

abbey: What took you so long?

Colt *successfully slipping her underwear back to her*: You have no idea how long it took for me to find them. *he looks towards the shuttle door* You ready?

*abbey nods and she tentatively follows him into the shuttle, her hands clutching the back of his shirt. He holds the long stick with both hands, ready to swat at the beast should they come across it.*

abbey *surveying the mess as they got further inside*: Dear God! This is a disaster.

Colt *while looking intently for any movement*: The whole ship is like this. We’ll have to clean it all up before we leave again. That way we could know if anything needs replaced.

abbey: I already placed an order for what I need. Hopefully, I won’t have to place another one.

*As they search for the critter, Colt and abbey pick up stuff and put it away. They check everywhere, but still can’t find it. The last place to look was in her sleeping area. That was the place they saw it first. After further investigation, they are confident that it just isn’t there any longer.*

abbey: where could it have gone? The door was shut tight.

Colt *scratching his head, perplexed*: I don’t know. Maybe I’ll have Spots take a look at the seal on the door. It may need some adjustment. Could be a gap we’re not seeing.

*abbey sees a frame laying on the floor. She picks it up and dusts it off. The glass isn’t broken. Colt comes and looks over her shoulder to see what it is.*

abbey: My Gaming Certificate.

*She walks over to the wall and stretches up to affix it back where it originally went. She nearly loses her balance, but Colt holds out his hand to steady her.

abbey *stretching as high as possible with her right hand*: I don’t know how I got it up so high. Must've had higher heels on.

*As she puts the frame into place, her sweater falls off her left shoulder, revealing a tattoo on her shoulder blade. It was simple. A small Chinese symbol meaning “home.” Colt re

SEVENSKIES

Thursday, May 15, 2008 1:59 AM

*After floating around off and on for a while, Colt finally comes over the comm to say the artificial gravity was restored. Sky let's out a sigh of relief as her eyes wander around. She heads into the galley to see everything out of place. The entire ship is a wreck. Boxes are scattered about in the cargo bay, everyone's bunks are torn apart--everything is just out of place. She shrugs and sighs once again as she begins to move boxes around in the cargo bay, stacking some on top of others and moving them back into their original places. She had a good idea of where they had been before, so she tries her best to put them back correctly. Brit walks in and sets Simba down on the floor as he stumbles before he begins running around the room straight.*

Brit: Would you like any help?

Nah, I'm almost done. *She stacks a box on top of another.*

Brit: Yes you do. You just don't want my help.

Well, sure. I guess you can help if you want but some of these boxes are a mite heavy.

Brit: *She tilts her head as she watches Sky stack more boxes.* So who's help do you really want?

It ain't important. If yer gonna help me I suggest you get to it before I end up finishin' myself.

Brit: *A scowl appears upon her face.* Ok. Fine.

*Sky reaches for another box that Simba is looking at intensely. The little bobcat's eyes are narrowed and he begins to crouch down.*

Brit: Wait. Don't move that box.

Huh? And why shouldn't I? *She moves the box anyway, blatantly ignoring Brit's request. Another giant rat-like rodent scurries across Sky's feet and Simba attempts to chase after it, but it gets away too quickly.* Tā mā de!

Brit: I told you not to move the box.

*Sky grunts.* I've had about enough of this pì huà. Where the hell is the gorram Captain when you need him?!

Brit: Oh, I don't think trying to find him is a very good idea at the moment.

Oh and why not?

Brit: Maybe you should just learn to trust me on this one.

Trust? You? HA! Why should I?

Brit: Uhh... nǎo.

Nǎo? What is that supposed to mean.

Brit: I'm not sure if you really want to find out... *She picks up Simba and walks out of the cargo bay.*

Huh? *She shakes her head and heads up to the bridge.*

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

SPOTS74

Thursday, May 15, 2008 2:26 PM

ooc sorry ive been way im currently in Penn

(finding it suprising easy to work 1 handed in a contant state of falling)

*to colt* ok i need you to turn off the port control panel (he turns to the right) that would be to your left

Colt:oh right

no left

(stan keeps working)

*i float over to the comm* OK every body get close to the floor im gona try to get the grave back

everyone checks in * ok here we go* (flips the switch)

** WHAM as very on flys up to the roof** (crawling back to the comm) ***sorry lets try this again*** flips another switch and the ship rights its self ***ok we'er good people***

WASHRULESBABY

Thursday, May 15, 2008 3:31 PM

*** hits comm***

thank you for fixing that

******Gets up and starts to pick up the dinos and puts them in they're spots . Looks up and sees simba walking on the bridge and hops up in the co-pilot seat.********

WASH : Well simba , welcome to the bridge . I don't think you'll need anytrianing to be our co-pilot.

***** laughs to my self (caot. gonna love this***********

I am a leaf on the wind

COLT999

Thursday, May 15, 2008 8:08 PM

*We both smile and she turns he back to me . I use my finger to trace around her tattoo. Home huh?*

*Abbey thinking to her self:* I don’t want to meet with Grayson. He’s not going to like this situation. I shouldn’t have said anything, not this soon. But now he’s expecting me. I wonder if he would come here if I didn’t show. That would be a disaster. * She feels Colt touch her shoulder tracing the tattoo. Emotions from the past surface inside her. She fights the urge to tense her body* No…I have to go meet with him.

*The Book breaks into Persephone’s atmo.*

That time already? I guess I better get up to the bridge.

Abbey: Yeah I guess so. I need to get ready too. I have to…I’m going to check on the supplies.

Thought you said they were being delivered?

Abbey: They are. I just thought of some things I forgot.

Oh…ok. Well I’d best be going.

*A short time later the Book lands on Persephone*

ABBEYGIRL

Thursday, May 15, 2008 9:26 PM

*Colt and abbey get dressed. Once they are, he pulls her close and kisses her. Having his arms around her like that just makes her feel… safe.*

Colt: See you later?

Abbey: Of course.

*He places a lingering kiss on her lips and leaves, making sure no one sees him doing so. She looks over at the mirror. She is so tense, she can feel it. She doesn’t know how she hid it from Colt.*

*She is dreading meeting Grayson. She was sorry that she had waved him earlier. Panicking like that should have meant some thinking time on her part, not a wave to him. She goes over and picks up a paper with the address where she is supposed to meet him. She leaves the ship and hails a hovertaxi, which drops her off at a medical building.*

Abbey *puzzled*: A clinic? *She walks in and stops at the reception desk.* I’m here to see Grayson.

*Abbey is directed to the third office on the right. She opens the door and is greeted by three men, one of which is Grayson. There is various medical equipment lying around.*

Grayson: Hello abbey!

Abbey *confused*: What is this?

Grayson *motioning to the first guy*: This is Dr. Wenchell. I know that Oram is probably a fine doctor, but I want him to check you out. Make sure there’s no damage from the Panaflex.

Abbey *rolls eyes*: I’m fine Grayson. Oram has checked me out thoroughly.

Grayson: I’m sure, but Dr. Wenchell is a pulmonary specialist. It will make me feel better.

Abbey: Fine. Whatever.

*Dr. Wenchell puts her through a full battery of tests. When it is all done, the doctor announces that she has some minor scarring in one or two areas, but nothing to worry about.*

abbey *to Grayson*: Told you.

*Dr. Wenchell is dismissed and the next guy comes over.*

Grayson: This is John. He is a retina scan technician. We are going to test what would happen when you get scanned. Just so we know.

*Abbey is actually glad of this one. She wants to be aware of what would happen. The technician scans her and everything comes back OK, except that her age was off.*

John: That would have passed through most checkpoints, but the error may have flagged someone who was actually paying attention. I’ll correct it.

Grayson: The listed age should be 6 years older than what is there.

*John finishes up his work and Grayson shows him to the door. Before John leaves, Grayson whispers a few things to him. John nods and exits the room. That leaves only Grayson and abbey. He motions for her to come sit at a table with him. She does. He is looking at a file as he speaks.*

Grayson questions her about the events since she starting renting the shuttle on the Book. Abbey tells him everything. From the encounter with Fidelis, the shooting, the Panaflex, the kidnapping and then the gravity issues.

Grayson: How are things with Colt?

Abbey: Better.

Grayson *looking over file at her*: Made up then?

Abbey *smiling slightly as she reflects back at their time together*: Yes.

Grayson *almost accusatory*: You sleeping with him?

Abbey *glaring at Grayson*: That’s none of your business. *Grayson snorted at her response. Abbey noticed he was being kinda stiff today. Not his usual self.*

Grayson *flipping to another page in the file*: Too bad. It’s going to make things a lot harder.

Abbey *narrowing her eyes at him*: What are you talking about?

Grayson: I checked out the people on board your ship. Some of them are marginal at best. Including your captain. Some even have criminal pasts. They could flip either way.

Abbey: What does that mean?

Grayson: I’m not satisfied about your safety. Plus it seems the ship itself may not be entirely sound either. It’s luh suh. I’ve already witnessed an artificial gravity failure.

Abbey *getting an inkling of where he is going*: Exactly what are you suggesting?

Grayson: I put in a request for relocation. There is a new ID in progress, we will be putting you up in a safe house on the other side of the world until it is done. So

STRANGEBIRD

Thursday, May 15, 2008 10:53 PM

*Stan leaves Spots shortly after the gravity is restored. He heads down to the passenger dorms to shower and change clothes. Afterwards, dressed in clean khakis, t-shirt and his light jacket he passes Sky as she's leaving the Cargo Hold.*

Stan: "Excuse me? How long 'til we reach Persephone?"

Sky: "Not very long, I was just headed to the bridge."

Stan: "Alright, thanks."

*Stan heads back to his room and grabs his databook off the floor and straps the small black case to his left hip. Picking up his duffel and reaches in and pulls out a rolled up boonie hat. Unrolling it he dusts it off, rolls it back up and stuffs it into his back pocket.*

<----Just before Landing---->

*Stan walks through the galley and heads after the Captain who is walking towards the Bridge.*

Stan: "Captain... Captain.. hey."

Colt: *Turning around.* "Yeah, whatcha need Stan?"

Stan: "Do we have a job on Persephone or are is it just a supply stop?"

Colt: "Just for restocking, Abbey needed a few things. Thought we could check the ship for damage, finish cleaning up too."

Stan: "Would it be alright if I head off on my own? I didn't have much when I arrived here, less now. I could also use a few things for my dorm."

Colt: "Oh sure, whatever. Just be back on my boat before we leave. Alright??"

Stan: "Definitely."

Colt: "You can take the mule if you need it. Just fuel it up and don't lose it. Or crash it."

Stan: "Thank you, I'll take good care of it."

*Stan heads off to prep the mule before landing.*

Colt: "Or burn it!"

<--------------------<<<<-~~~~(*)~~~~->>>>-------------------->
"True glory consists of doing what deserves to be written, and writing what deserves to be read" Gaius Plinius Secundus

STRANGEBIRD

Thursday, May 15, 2008 10:53 PM

OOC: IGNORE ACCIDENTAL DOUBLE POST

MOBBEX

Friday, May 16, 2008 12:55 AM

Ow...

..Ow...

...Ow!

Mobbex comes to in a state of acute discomfort, the throb of his heartbeat spouting ripples of pain throughout his body.

Mobbex, stirring a little: ...Mmmmrhearhhh...

He dares not to move a muscle as his brain slowly catches up on recent events. He recalls gliding along the ladder down to his quarters, and then... nothing, just a blank wall.

I think I broke somethin'...

He slides an eyelid open and finds himself lying at the bottom of the access ladder to his bunk. His left leg is entangled in the bars, causing his knee to curve at an awkward angle, while his head is firmly ensconced in a wall corner.

I must've tripped... god, I think I broke somethin'...

He unshackles himself and gets to his feet as he catches snuffly sounds coming from the deck above.

Wh... I think I broke something.

He grips one of the bars and clambers up the ladder.

Quote:
Originally posted by StrangeBird:
Stan: "Captain... Captain.. hey."

Colt: *Turning around.* "Yeah, whatcha need Stan?"

Stan: "Do we have a job on Persephone or are is it just a supply stop?"

Colt: "Just for restocking, Abbey needed a few things. Thought we could check the ship for damage, finish cleaning up too."

Stan: "Would it be alright if I head off on my own? I didn't have much when I arrived here, less now. I could also use a few things for my dorm."

Colt: "Oh sure, whatever. Just be back on my boat before we leave. Alright??"

Stan: "Definitely."

Colt: "You can take the mule if you need it. Just fuel it up and don't lose it. Or crash it."

Stan: "Thank you, I'll take good care of it."

*Stan heads off to prep the mule before landing.*

Colt: "Or burn it!"

Colt glances at Stan's back as the latter is stepping away. He then turns around, meaning to go about his captainy business, and... drives his nose into Mobbex's chest.

Colt: BWAH! *jumps back and reaches for his sidearm* Don't... don't do that!

Mobbex: *brings a hand up to brush something on the back of his head* ...I think I tripped an' broke somethin'.

Colt: Well that's... disheartening. You double up with Stan, make sure nothin' bad happens to him while he's rovin' around the docks.

Mobbex: *a variety of expression come fleeting across his face* Stan... right. Hey cap'n, I... I think I tripped an' broke somethin'.

Colt's face goes blank. He detaches his gaze from the mercenary and hoofs it to the bridge.

Colt, shouting over his shoulder: He'll be in the cargo bay!

Stan: Irony is my middle name. Actually... it's Max but I didn't mean literally.

STRANGEBIRD

Friday, May 16, 2008 2:01 AM

*Stan enters the cargo hold and heads over to where the mule is secured. He then walks around the vehicle unfastening chains, pushing the chucks out of the way, checking tire pressure and glancing over the entire thing for damage. Just as he's about to hop onto the drivers seat Mobbex ambles somewhat stiffly into the cargo bay and up to the mule. He seems a bit distant. As if he were hung-over or dazed.*

Mobbex: "Captain says I'm watchin' your back."

Stan: *Not sure how to answer* "I think I'll be fine."

Mobbex: "What... well whatever. I'm with you today. Like it or hate it. Dong lu ma?"

*Mobbex sits roughly, with a strange *clonk*, on the back-facing passenger seat of the mule. He has an intimidating knife strapped to his belt and a large caliber revolver on his right hip. He's also wearing a flak-jacket over a ratty t-shirt.*

"Hopefully he won't need those.. or I this." *He absently checks the strap of the case on his left hip*

Mobbex: *Rubbing the back of his head tenderly* "Well, this thing prepped?"

Stan: "Yeah, let's go." *Walking over to punch the button for the Cargo doors.*

Stan: "Haven't had a chance to take one of these for a spin yet." *Mobbex glances at him but shows no signs of worry*

Mobbex: "Captain ordered me to watch yer back.."

Stan: *Blink* "Yeahhh... alright. Watch my back."

*Stan hops up onto the drivers seat and key's the ignition, bringing the engine to life with an echoed roar in the enclosed cargo hold. He checks gauges and makes note of the various levers and pedals then backs the mule up and steers her towards the doors. Gently gunning the engine he brings the mule out of the ship and onto the wide, bustling and muddy streets of the docks.*

<--------------------<<<<-~~~~(*)~~~~->>>>-------------------->
"True glory consists of doing what deserves to be written, and writing what deserves to be read" Gaius Plinius Secundus

ORAM

Friday, May 16, 2008 1:03 PM

*When the Artificial Gravity is finally fixed, Oram unbuckles herself and begins the cleanup of the infirmary, careful of the many broken shards of vials and syringes, more than half of the stock is gone and as she mentally count up the cost of what to buy, and where it's cheapest, her heart sinks as she realises it’s gonna be a small fortune*

Oram: Well… Huh choo-shang tza-jiao duh tzang-huo

*When the infirmary is cleaned up and more or less back to itself, she makes her way to her room and swears even louder at the mess. This time it takes more than half an hour to even remotely get the room looking straight and tidy. Satisfied that her two main areas are clean as can be, Oram goes to break the bad news to Colt, hoping to soften the blow by telling him she can get them cheaply and semi-legally.*

SPOTS74

Friday, May 16, 2008 5:25 PM

(Spots comes walking into the infirmary)

hey doc

Oram: do you have an appointment?

yes, yes i do ... its time we get this off( holding up his left hand

Oram: o yeah almost forgot. please sit down

(cutting the cast and then wrapping the skin underneath getting up from the chair)

thanks doc

Oram: no problem just take it easy and keep it wrapped for several weeks

will do thanks again ***walking out of the infirmary***

STRANGEBIRD

Friday, May 16, 2008 10:14 PM

*The mule rolls slowly through the throngs of people busily moving from one place to another. Street vendors calling out various merchandise, trying to entice the veritable melting-pot of cultures and classes into spending whatever they have.*

Street vendor: "Chickens, fresh screaming chickens!"

*Stan leaves the docks and heads into the Market District. An area nearly packed with rows of three and four floor businesses and streets lined with stalls, kiosks and more of the loud, barking cart vendors. At the center of the district is a massive twenty-two floor shopping center surrounded by multi-level parking structures buzzing with craft of all shapes and sizes. Pulling up to a battered old building with a sign reading 'Ander's Super Surplus' he parks the mule and shuts it down.*

Stan: "This place looks decent enough. There's one in Vanteel... didn't know it was a chain."

*He hops off the mule and heads up the steps and into the building, the large merc following him close but paying more attention to the sign beside the door stating 'No shirt, no shoes, no problem'. Inside Stan heads straight to the used housewares section and walks slowly along the aisles looking at the cheap but practical merchandise.*

Mobbex: "People buy this crap...?"

*Mobbex walks over to a shelf of tableware and china and picks up an ugly little saucer with a blue and white design. Glancing casually around he slips it under his flak jacket and heads off to catch up with Stan. He passes an end-cap display of cards and various board games and knocks a couple decks of cards onto the floor. Bending over to pick them up he suddenly feels pressure and a snap.

Mobbex: "Whah?"

*Stan turns around and looks at him as he grabs at his chest in shock. Only then realizing that it was the saucer and not a rib. Stan looks quizzically at him. He smirks at Stan then grunts non-apologetically, slipping the cards into his pocket. Turning around he walks back over to the shelf and pulls out three large broken peices of china and sets them back, attempting to place them just so as to look as if they were not broken. Satisfisfied, he glances around again and walks back over to Stan, who is still staring at him with a mix of annoyance and incredulity. Mobbex just blinks and glances over at the shopkeeper, who has now noticed but doesn't seem at all inclined to do anything about it. Stan just shakes his head and continues over to a wall lined with used beds, cots and mattresses. Picking out a small but sturdy old cot he folds it up and hands it to Mobbex, who nods blankly and tucks it under his arm.*

Stan: *In a whisper to Mobbex* "What are you doing?!

Mobbex: *Rubbing his head* "Cap'n said to watch yer back..."

*Stan shakes his head again and continues shopping. About twenty minutes later they're both standing at the counter where pair of rugged calf-high boots, a couple pair of coveralls, a slightly worn but decent looking safari jacket, a wok and two bundles of non-perishable foods lie awaiting payment. Stan pulls out his databook and links to the local cortex feed to transfer funds. He notices a flashing letter at the bottom of the screen that signifies a new wave. He nods to the shopkeeper who is staring at Mobbex with a very obvious look of fear mingled with anger and impatience. They lug the puchases outside and strap them to the mule. Mobbex sits down on the side seat of the mule, again with that odd "clonk" sound."

Stan: "Just a second. I got a wave."

*Stan pulls the databook out of his pocket and taps the letter with his stylus.*

*Personal Wave*
Sender: Joey Li #87642-16733-321-21-7
Recipient: Stanley Enys #87621-15013-332-21-7

Stan,

Brah! It's been awhile since we last spoke. Just heard last week that you'd left that floating fishbo

COLT999

Sunday, May 18, 2008 9:03 PM

*After giving the Doc the credits she needed to resupply the infirmary, Sky and I set about straightening up the cargo bay. We almost have the place cleaned up when Abbey’s delivery shows up. I check the invoice and after the delivery man assured me for the 3rd time that signing for it, did not mean I had to pay for it, he was on his way.
We’re looking over the assorted boxes when I hear someone stomping up the ramp.*

Grayson: Where’s Abbey?

*Turning to meet him* She’s not here can I help *recognizing Grayson* YOU!

Grayson: I’m here for Abbey’s things. Which shuttle is hers?

Sky: Starboard side *smiling at me*

Stay out of this Sky *I shoot a few daggers her way then turn back to Grayson.*

And you, you’re not taking anything Miste…..*choking*

*Haven’t been punched in the throat in a long time. Funny how you can forget how much something like this can hurt. Grayson walks past me like he’s on a stroll. He starts up the stairs.

Grayson: I’ll take her personal items now and send someone for the rest.

*He no sooner finishes the sentence than the small wooden box from Abbeys delivery smashes the back of his head. He crashes to the stairs. I close the gap fast and grab his ankles. I take some satisfaction, hearing the “Thonk” “Thonk” “Thonk” sound his head makes on each step, as I drag him back down. We reach the bottom and he spins to his back and draws his knees to his chest. Then he exploded with a kick to my gut. I fly back into a crate. I recover in time to see a clumsy right hook heading at me. I duck it easy and I’m about to give him a left to the ribs when I realize he suckered me.
He snaps his right elbow back into my temple and I go down. *

CLICK

*Grayson turns to look at Sky who has her gun trained on him*

Grayson: I thought you were staying out of it?

Sky: That’s when I thought Colt was going to mop the floor with your ass.

SKY *kicking Grayson in the back of the knee* ITS MY FIGHT.

*The fight changes quickly. Finesse moves are replaced with head butts and eye gouging as each of us try to gain the advantage to take out the other. Grayson gets there first. He smashes my head into the floor repeatedly. I start to see stars.*

Abbey: GRAYSON STOP.

*He does. *

Abbey: Leave. We’ll talk later.

*He starts to protest but hold his tongue and limps off the ship*

*Sky helps me up and Abbey comes to my side. She puts her hand on my shoulder but I brush it away.*

Guess he was one of things you forgot.

Abbey: It’s not what you think.

Then what is it? Tell me.

*She looks at me, then to Sky. I see something in her eyes that makes me think she’s going to actually tell me, but her mouth doesn’t move.*

I’m going to see Badger about a job.

Sky: By yourself? Think that’s wise.

Come if you want. *Walking down the ramp.*

Sky to Abbey: That fella came looking for you. Said he was taking you off the boat. If that’s your plan maybe you should be gone by the time we get back.

*Sky head out after me*

ABBEYGIRL

Sunday, May 18, 2008 11:13 PM

*abbey watches Colt until he and Sky disappear around the corner. Things had gone really south, really fast and there was one person behind it all: Grayson. She walks down the ramp and when she reaches the bottom, she calls out to him.*

abbey: I know you are still here. Let’s talk.

*Grayson comes out of the shadows. His head is bleeding, he has a busted lip and he is trying to wipe the blood from his knuckles.*

Grayson *smugly as he takes a step towards the ship*: You ready to leave now?

*abbey pulls back her fist and clobbers him. Grayson falls to the ground, rubbing his jaw.*

abbey *fuming*: Now you listen to me…

Grayson *interrupting her, his voice firm*: You ready to leave now? There’s nothing here holding you back.

abbey *trying to fight the urge to clock him again*: I knew it. You came here looking for a fight.

Grayson: I came here to try to talk some sense into you. I just found him first. I’d say the fight was worth it. You are worth it.

abbey *moves to stand in his personal space, her voice soft, but threatening*: I want to thank you for watching over me for so many years. I have learned to trust your opinion…

Grayson *interrupting her again*: FINALLY! Now let’s go get your stuff.

*Grayson tries to take another step towards the ship, but abbey moves to stand in his path.*

abbey *continuing her thought*: BUT… This time is different. This time, you went beyond the scope of your job. This time, you purposely went out of your way to destroy the first good thing that I have had in my life in a long while.

Grayson *stepping back a bit*: abbey, he’s not right for you. His history is spotty at best. There are big gaps where nothing has been documented. He’s probably hiding something from you.

abbey: And I’m not doing the same to him?

Grayson: You deserve someone from the Core! Not… Not… Not some low life from a Border Planet!

abbey: And what does that make me? Or Oram? We grew up in places on the Border as well. *Grayson knows he has again crossed the line. He has gotten used to her identity and forgot where she was originally from.*

Grayson *reaching out and touching her on the shoulder – she slaps his hand away*: I’m sorry. I didn’t mean…

abbey *looking him straight into the eye*: I have something important to say to you. *she pauses* Are you listening?

Grayson *nodding*: Yes.

abbey: I am not leaving this ship. You will cancel the relocation. I don’t want to hear from you unless it is something important. Don’t schedule any games with me.

Grayson *sadly*: abbey…

abbey *holding up her hand signaling him to be quiet*: And I will do the same. Don’t expect me to call unless I’m really in trouble.

Grayson *objecting*: abbey, that’s not smart…

abbey: If you try to interfere again, I will petition for reassignment. Do I make myself clear? *Grayson nods in defeat.* Good. Now leave. I want you out of my sight.

She watches until he is gone, then walks back into the cargo bay. Her delivery is there, except that a box of liquor has been smashed in the scuffle. It will have to be replaced. She goes over to the comm.

abbey: Wash? I’m going to go back into town. I have something I need to pick up. Don’t leave without me, OK?

Wash *oblivious to what had happened earlier*: Will do.

abbey wanders back into town to a liquor store not far from the ship. She sits down at the counter and orders her replacement product. While she waits, the storekeeper pours her a glass of orange liquid.

abbey *picks up the drink and sniffs it*: What’s this? It smells good. Like orange blossoms.

Storekeeper: It is called “d'Orange.” I read the information that came with this product. It’s made from some specially grown oranges. You should see the size of them! *uses hands to make a basketball sized circle.* Anyway it is new. This is the first shipment I have received.

abbey *taking a sip of the drink*: It’s good. Throw in a ca

STRANGEBIRD

Monday, May 19, 2008 12:27 AM

*Stan blinks twice then looks back down at the wave. Attached is an address and short description of where to find Joey.*

Stan: "... The Leaky Tiki?"

Mobbex: "What'a hell is a tiki?"

*Stan ignores him.*

Stan: "Looks like we'll be cutting this outing short and taking a... detour before heading back to the ship."

Mobbex: "... I'm s'posed to watch yer back."

Stan: "Sure."

*Mobbex takes another bite of his marzipan and tosses the rest onto the muddy ground. Stan climbs aboard the mule and keys the ignition. Twenty minutes of crowds, dead-ends and side-streets later they park outside a fairly nondescript building with a flashing sign depicting a nude woman dancing beneath a palm tree to the backdrop of a sunset and a large sailing ship of some ancient sort. Below are the words "The Leaky Tiki" in flickering neon lighting.*

Mobbex: *Hopping off the mule* "Is it a nekkid bar?"

Stan: "No...."

Mobbex: "Because that'd be my kinda place."

Stan: "..I don't think so anyway."

*They walk through the battered doors and into the foyer. Other than a handful of patrons both the bar and the seating areas are vacant. The entire place is decorated with various odds and ends. All with a tropical style from Earth-That-Was. Directly infront of the doors a small old woman is seated on a tall stool. Her feet nearly three feet from the ground. She smiles and greets them. Asking if they'd like to be shown a seat or if they're just here for drinks. Stan smiles back.*

Stan: "Actually I'm looking for Joey Li."

*The little old woman looks surprised for a moment then suspicious.*

Old lady: "I'm very sorry, there isn't anyone here named Joey, or Li for dat matter. Dere's a nice booth in da corner dere."

Stan: "Again we're not here for drinks ma'am. My name is Stanley Enys. I'm here looking for my friend Joey. He sent me this address. He said he had something for me..."

*A young man slightly shorter than Stan walks around the corner*

Man: "Stan?!"

Stan: "Joey? Hey!"

Joey: "What da hell you doin' here, brah?"

Stan: "What'd mean? You invited me!"

Joey: "Yeah, but eh I didn't think you'd be comin' so soon. I sent dat wave only a week or so ago. I hope you didn't go outta your way just to come see me."

Stan: "I actually just got it about twenty minutes ago. We only landed here recently."

Joey: "We?"

*Joey glances at the behemoth of a man, decked out in rough clothes and various weapons. He leans in close to Stan.*

Joey: *In a slight whisper* "Who's the moke?"

Stan: "This is Mobbex... he's.... an associate."

*Joey glances at the gun and knives..*

Joey: "Right, well we gotta talk, brah."

Stan: *Turning to Mobbex* "You stay here, have a drink or two on me... don't steal anything or.. break anything. Alright?"

*Mobbex looks confused then just grunts and walks over to the bamboo-framed bar. Sitting on the stool with his back to the bar.*

Joey: "An den, yeah.. here."

*Joey leads Stan into a room behind the bar that appears to be a break room. Then up a flight of stairs to the second level. At the top of the stairs is a hallway with doors leading to private rooms. One of them is Joey's. They enter.*

Joey: *Digging through a drawer* "Aright then... da kine 'round here somewhere.... here!"

*He pulls out and old, battered parcel. Small tears in the outer wrapping and some scorching on one corner.*

Joey: "I know. Beat ta hell, eh? This how it got here though."

Stan: Taking the thick envelope* "There was no return address..? Who delivered it?"

Joey: "It came with the post. Someone could have slipped it in though, I s'pose."

Stan: "Thanks Joey... How are you? It's been awhile since we talked."

Joey: *Leaning against the dresser* "Oh, well I'm plenny fine here. Got work, which is great. And I got family. Like ma granma down there. An' lots of cousins."

Stan: "I thought she looked familiar. She used to live on Newhall, on Vanteel right? Remember that summer we spent there?"

Joey: "Yeah, after yer folks... a eh. Any kine, how'd

COLT999

Tuesday, May 20, 2008 6:17 PM

You think he only gave me the job cause I looked so beat up?

Sky: He gave you the job because you’re stupid enough to take it.

It’ll be fine.

Sky: It’s risky.

This is the kind of work I promised the crew when I hired them. Dangerous work pays better.

Sky: This goes beyond dangerous. You’re being reckless. I wonder why that is?

You got something to say, spit it out.

Sky: That business on the boat, seems a lot of trouble to go through for a renter.

He hit me first. Self defense.

Sky: Self defense? Not sure you understand the concept. Most folk try to keep their head from getting smashed in the floor. But you always were a slow learner…*realizing something* Oh…Oh gorramit your rutting around with her aren’t you?

Huh?

Sky: What she dumps you for that prissy fella so you go stick your neck into a world of trouble to get over her. Seen this before.

It ain’t like that. We got an advantage that Badger don’t know about.

Sky: Advantage?

*I fill Sky in on the way to the boat. By the time we arrive she’s on board. *

*Walking up the ramp we see Abbey* Sky: You didn’t answer my question earlier.

*I ignore her and put on my don’t give a damn face for Abbey*

Abbey: Can we talk?

Sorry, kinda busy now.

*As I walk past he infirmary Oram steps in front of me.*

Oram: Heard you took a beating. Let me check you out.

Took a beating? *looking back at Abbey* I’m fine Doc. *She shines a pen light in my eyes. I push it away* I know your doing your job but not now.

*I make it up to the Bridge * Wash, set a course for New Hall. You can wave Abbey’s shuttle let her know we’ll be there 3 days.

Wash: You don’t want to just tell her at dinner?

No, wave will be fine.

*I walk back down to the dorms. I pass Abbey talking to Oram. We don’t speak. I knock on Brits door.*

Brit: It’s open Captain.

*I walk in. I see a drawing pad covered with scribbles on her desk. Strange, it’s all the same doodle. A Blue Sun logo with big angry X’s scratched through them. *

How are you doing today?

Brit: Better than you. It’s not her fault. You should listen. She didn't know.

See that there, is the kind of spooky thing we need to discuss.

Brit: You have a job.

Yes I do and...

Brit: And its time I earn my keep.

ABBEYGIRL

Tuesday, May 20, 2008 9:44 PM

*Oram pulls up on the back of a mule, driven by a less than savory individual. The mule is pulling along a small fortune in medical items and drugs behind it. They are carefully concealed under a tarp, but abbey knows what they are. Oram has him pull into the bay so she could slide her purchases onto the floor. She tosses him a couple of coins. He merely grunts and drives away.*

Abbey: You get everything you needed?

Oram: Took some doing, but I did. Got a decent price even.

Abbey: You might want to get them ready for use.

Oram: Why, what’s up?

Abbey: Captain went and got himself a beating.

Oram: Captain was in a fight? And I missed it?

Abbey: Don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll see the aftermath.

Oram: Well, I’d best be getting prepared then.

Oram departs for the infirmary and quickly gets it ready for use.

Abbey waits for a half hour more before she sees Colt and Sky returning. She stands up to meet them.

Quote:
Originally posted by Colt999:
*Walking up the ramp we see Abbey*

*I ignore her and put on my don’t give a damn face for Abbey*

Abbey: Can we talk?

Sorry, kinda busy now.

The look on his face is telling of how he is feeling toward her at this time. Abbey silently curses Grayson for his lack of self control.

Quote:
Originally posted by Colt999:
*As I walk past he infirmary Oram steps in front of me.*

Oram: Heard you took a beating. Let me check you out.

Took a beating? *looking back at Abbey* I’m fine Doc. *She shines a pen light in my eyes. I push it away* I know your doing your job but not now.

She watches as Oram tries to check him out, but he blows her off. Looking back at her only to give her a glare before jogging up the stairs and out of view. She walks over to Oram.

Abbey: He looked pretty banged up, is he OK?

Oram: If his foul mood is any indication, I’d say he’s fine. But I’ll make him sit down later for a full inspection.

Abbey *looking up the stairs in the direction where he disappeared*: Make sure you do.

Oram: What in the Hell happened?

Abbey: Grayson happened. He asked me about everything that had happened on the boat since I got here. And I told him everything.

Oram: Everything? *abbey nodded* I’m not so sure that was smart.

Abbey: It wasn’t. He had already decided it was time for me to leave and started the process of *whispers* relocation.

Oram: And he didn’t tell you first?

Abbey shakes her head as Colt comes back down the stairs, passing them by without even a word.

Abbey: I told him I wasn’t leaving. I like it here. I like that you were here. A lot of strange things have happened, but not anything related to my… situation. So, I ditched him.

Oram *surprised*: You ditched Grayson? How’d he take that?

Abbey: Not well. He came here himself and the Captain was the first person he found. They were fighting pretty hard when I came back. *switching the subject slightly* You may want to check Colt for a concussion. His head was getting well acquainted with the floor.

Oram: I will. *pauses* So are you leaving?

Abbey: No. I told Grayson to back off. He’s not to contact me unless it’s something important. I told him not to schedule any games with me. I also told him I wouldn’t be calling unless I was in some real trouble.

Oram: abbey, I’m not so sure that is entirely a safe thing to do.

Abbey: I’m fine. *puts on a weak smile* You’ll keep an eye out for me, won’t you?

Oram: Always.

Abbey: I just need a break from Grayson. He crossed the line with a couple of his comments.

Oram: What did he say?

Abbey: Never mind. *She looks up to see the delivery person arrive with the items she had ordered. She is grateful with his timing. She doesn’t want to be grilled by Oram as well.* I have to go handle this.

Abbey leaves Oram to go sign for her order. She obviously convinces the delivery guy to haul the two crates up to her shuttle, she tips him and he goes about his way. She looks up at her console a

STRANGEBIRD

Wednesday, May 21, 2008 3:03 AM

*Stan watches the exchange between the Captain and Abbey from his unintentional hiding place, crouched on the other side of the Mule.*

"Huh?... Wonder what all that's about."

*He leans forward and secures the last chuck and set of chains to the front right tire. Noticing a poke against the side of his stomach.*

"The Package! I nearly forgot.."

*Stan was so pleased to see his old friend he'd forgotten the entire reason he even knew he was here. He finishes the last bit of work on the Mule then heads back to his dorm to open the parcel. He passes Abbey as she enters the hold and nods politely. He passes his new purchases and enters his room. Sitting down on the thin mattress he carefully examines the package. It's about five by eight inches, weighs around a pound and has numerous damages to the outer wrapping. It otherwise seems well packed. Ripping off the thick paper and plastic padding he finds a small book...*

Stan: "A journal?"

*Tentatively, he open it and sees a name written, in familiar hand-writing, on the inside of the front cover...*

Jordan Fitzgerald Enys

"Dad?!"

Stan: "What?"

<--------------------<<<<-~~~~(*)~~~~->>>>-------------------->
"True glory consists of doing what deserves to be written, and writing what deserves to be read" Gaius Plinius Secundus

MOBBEX

Wednesday, May 21, 2008 6:53 PM

Mobbex stares absently as Stan pulls up the mule by the airlock and starts offloading his shopping. He hardly even notices as the younger man trudges away lugging his own weight in furniture.

'Feelin' the need to grab a bite, now, he thinks. A'wonder if we got fresh fruits...

He picks himself up and sets out for the mess hall, then suddenly stops dead as his vision goes pitch-black.

Mobbex, wavering on his feet as his eyes roll to the back of his head: Huh? Who cut the... Wuh de ma... *keels over onto the floor*

He hears the muffled racket of people gathering around him, then discerns an unworldly voice spouting gibberish in quick bursts.

Unworldly voice: Blood gushing through my veins and down the sink... Misguided, fooled... Shrouded in a mist of half truths and fallacies...

Mobbex feels an icy touch on his forehead. The veil of inky darkness begins to melt away and he soon makes out Brit's face staring down at him.

Mobbex, his voice a little raspy: Where am I?

Brit, deadpan: You're right here.

Mobbex heaves a deep groan and is all set to deliver a nasty retort when the darkness surges back, swallowing him whole.

Stan: Irony is my middle name. Actually... it's Max but I didn't mean literally.

MOBBEX

Wednesday, May 21, 2008 11:23 PM

Mobbex's world goes from a screen of murky shadows to a peephole as he comes round. While he gradually gathers his wits back, he becomes aware of a dark figure stooped over him.

Mobbex: Wha... *feels the unmistakable ferrous tang of blood in his mouth as he speaks* ...who's there?

Sky, looking by and large unruffled: Yup, alive'n kickin'.

Spots's face comes into sight.

Spots: I'm guessin' you took a trip and knocked a few things lose, best get the doc to check you out right away.

Sky gives a halfhearted nod before receding from view.

Spots: Come on, big fella', I'll help you up.

Mobbex catches Spots' held out hand and the mechanic endeavors to pull him to his feet.

Mobbex: *holds his head in his hands* M'head feels like it's fixin' to split open... Mi tian gohn! This's way offbeat...

Spots: *chuckles and claps him on the back* Well that's how we roll. You go get that nut of yours looked at.

Mobbex gives a rigid nod by way of a reply and walks off to the infirmary.

Mobbex, muttering through gritted teeth as he treads: Won't that be fun...

Stan: Irony is my middle name. Actually... it's Max but I didn't mean literally.

ORAM

Thursday, May 22, 2008 1:19 PM

*Oram is halfway though packing the restocked medical supplies, over-going the numbers again in her head before she feels like she’s being watched. Turning around she spots Mobbex at the doorway, looking like he’s been chewed up and coughed back up by a cat… which is the best way of describing his condition.*

Oram: Hum... what's up?

Mobbex: Don't rightly know...

Oram: Ok… that’s helpful… what did you do to warrant a visit?

Mobbex: I… *brushes something on the back of his head* I think... I slipped an' banged ma head up pretty good.

Oram: Hmm... déjà vu

Mobbex: What?

Oram: Nothing.

*Mobbex sits on the chair as Oram walks around, gathering various examination equipment that looks painful and intrusive. Mobbex just gives her a look as she slaps on a pair of latex gloves*

Mobbex: *gives her a smirk* Knew it wouldn’t be long before you’d try and get me pants off.

*Oram just blinks at him, then she gets the innuendo and the ‘prostate’ joke. She lets it slide seeming that he’s injured and any potential smacks to the head could make matters worse. She takes his blood pressure, temperature; satisfied with the results. However, when she goes for the co-ordination she finds his eyes has trouble focussing and following her finger and he reflex is a little off. Oram gives a sigh, and moves to examine the Merc’s head… and sees the giant egg-shaped lump that has decided to grace Mobbex’s head*

Mobbex: How bad is it?

*Oram chews the inside of her mouth as she thinks*

Oram: You haven’t been feeling funny lately? Like seeing things that weren’t there…. Losing time, like you’ve blacked out or forgotten simple every-day known things?

Mobbex: Huh?

Oram: Like names, you know who I am?

*Mobbex gives her a look like she’s lost it completely. Oram’s eyes travel down from his face and to his neck*

Oram: Like the colourful banquet of flowers around your neck.

*Mobbex blinks*

Oram: The lei.

Mobbex: Huh? *looks down and a horrified expression comes to his face* RAAAAAAAHR! *he hastily tears it off*

Oram: And there is the answer….

*He glances up at her… a confused expression on his face*

Oram: *notices his look* What’s wrong?

Mobbex: Don't rightly know...

Oram: What?

Mobbex: I… *brushes something on the back of his head* I think... I slipped an' banged ma head up pretty good.

Oram: Ok .. déjà vu… and that’s the 2nd time I've said it.

STRANGEBIRD

Thursday, May 22, 2008 6:56 PM

*Stan flips through the first few pages of the journal. It begins about the same time his parents left him with his uncle Greg. He flips quickly to the end and stares for a moment at the date before dropping the journal to the floor in front of him.*

"April 26... 2516. Three years ago.. they were pronounced MIA in 2510!"

*He picks the journal up and tries to read the first entry. He can't focus. All he's thinking about is how his parents were alive so long and never came home, or at the least let him know. Putting the journal down he decides to take a walk, relax then read it. He tucks the journal into his duffel and leaves his room, heading toward the stairs. The captain walks past him.*

Colt: "Next stop is Newhall. Just letting everyone know. Three day trip."

*He continues on his way, not noticing that his words stopped Stan dead in his tracks. A blank look on his face as he tries to work through the shock of what the captain just said.*

"I just ran from there. Is fate always so ironic?"

<--------------------<<<<-~~~~(*)~~~~->>>>-------------------->
"True glory consists of doing what deserves to be written, and writing what deserves to be read" Gaius Plinius Secundus

MOBBEX

Thursday, May 22, 2008 9:41 PM

Mobbex, looking somewhat stumped: Dayja view? 'That a seaside resort or somethin'?

Oram: *gasps as she comes to a sudden realization* Wu de ma... Hold it there, I'm gonna go get the captain. *shouts over her shoulder as she heads out the door* You stay put!

Mobbex shrugs and plunks himself on the infirmary bed.

What now... he thinks. Might's well catch some shut-eye.

He lies down on the couch and starts to hum an ageless lullaby, slowly lulling himself to sleep as he goes.

Hey there, people, Im bobby brown

They say Im the cutest boy in town

My car is fast, my teeth is shiny

I tell all the girls they can kiss my heinie

Here I am at a famous school

I'm dressin' sharp'n I'm

Actin' cool

I got a cheerleader here wants to help with my paper

Let her do all the work'n maybe later I'll rape her

Oh God I am the american dream

I do not think I'm too extreme

An' I'm a handsome son of a

I'm gonna get a good job'n be real rich... *dozes off*

Secret Agent Stan: The ducks have settled in the coffee shop......

SHADOWCAPTAIN

Friday, May 23, 2008 6:50 PM

INVITATION TO:
VIRTUAL SHINDIG on Aquila
http://www.chatzy.com/405423442340
OPEN 24\7
All welcome

[sorry to break your storyline]

thanks, shadow

http://www.chatzy.com/993683478721 - TRANQUILITYS War Room [and Lounge]
http://www.chatzy.com/421594713298 - TRANQUILITYS LEVEL 5 CLEARANCE

xie-xie, SHADOW captain 平静
http://www.myspace.com/firefly_captain
Someone tries to kill you... you try to kill'em right back.

STRANGEBIRD

Saturday, May 24, 2008 6:29 AM

*Stan blinks and glances after the captain as he turns the corner up the stairs. He considers catching up to him.*

"Three days.. it's not my business anyway. The journal.."

*He returns to his room and looks at the duffel. His curiosity at what is written in those pages is counter-balanced by his trepidation and fear at what it could all mean. He doesn't immediately retrieve the journal. Instead he heads out into the hall and gathers up his recent purchases. After unfolding and securing his new bunk he places the thin mattress atop it. Folding his coveralls neatly he stacks them beneath the cot next to his boots. He glances over his new bunk, satisfied he reaches into the duffel and pulls out the journal. It's small, maybe six inches by four, or close. The binding is open, hand stitched. It was probably made on the rim, but by someone with considerable talent when it comes to the construction of bound pages. The front cover is unadorned with no lettering. In one corner on the back is the initials K.M. A makers mark, apparently. He lies down on his bed, removes his glasses and opens the diary. He decides it would be best if he started from the beginning...*

_November 24, 2505_

__I'm writing this for my son. I'd like him to know why we're leaving him. Giving up a child isn't something a parent should do. Unless there is no other choice, if it's for the good of the child._

_This is for you Stan. So you'll understand. If you can understand. I hope, when we someday come back to you, you'll forgive us for not being there for you. Greg is a good man, we trust him with your life. I, and your mother trust him more than anyone we know. Which is why we chose him to raise you in our stead._

_I'm writing this so you will know how much we love you, and so that you'll know what we've done, and why, if we can never see you again._

_November 25, 2405_

__It is a five day journey from Newhall to Deadwood. The preparation onboard Ambrosius went well....._

"Ambrosius...?"

*Stan stays awake for hours, slowly reading the first quarter of the journal. It chronicles, with some discretion, his parents first months serving the Independent Faction. Their training and their travels from the rim, to the core and back again. The war itself is only in it's infancy but peace talks are strained. There has been no battle, no death, as of yet. At first his mother served as a negotiator. Her family having been of high standing on Sihnon. The talks fail. After that it's not completely obvious at first what function they served. Eventually he realizes that they were spies. Gathering information on troop movements and current tech. His father's background in engineering and his mother's political and social experience serve them well in this role. Most of the entries are of life aboard a ship. Of personal struggles and reports on the progress of the war. No names are mention. Had the journal fallen into the hands of the Alliance, his father explains, it would be worth more to them than any confession or plea bargain. But the importance of their work is evident. He can't help but feel a bit of pride to know his parents have done such things. Even if he's not quite sure yet how exactly he feels about this. Eventually his eyes begin to strain. He can't read anymore of it. The combination of physical fatigue and far to much information have driven him to the point of exhaustion. He sets the book beside his cot and pulls his thin wool blanket over himself. In moments he is asleep.*

<--------------------<<<<-~~~~(*)~~~~->>>>-------------------->
"True glory consists of doing what deserves to be written, and writing what deserves to be read" Gaius Plinius Se

ABBEYGIRL

Saturday, May 24, 2008 2:41 PM

COLT999

Saturday, May 24, 2008 3:09 PM

*I leave the dorms after briefly discussing with Brit what she’ll be doing on the job. I can’t help but feel a little guilty about throwing the girl into this mess. Maybe Sky was right. Maybe I should wave Badger, tell him we ain’t taking the job.*

*No. I’ve been protecting the crew taking easy jobs. *laughing to myself* Well they were supposed to be easy. Either way it’s not what I promised them. I’m letting the past back in. *thinking of my old ship* If I had been there I’d be dead. Nothing I could have done…cept die beside em. *I shake my head*

*I look for Abbey as I’m exiting the dorms. If I trust Brit to be on this job I should trust what she said about Abbey. She didn’t know that Grayson fella was coming for her. I head towards the infirmary to see if she is with the Doc, but she exits her shuttle above me. I walk up to meet her. Things go from bad to worse and end with her going back into her her shuttle and me feeling like a heel.*

*I walk down to the infirmary and check the mirror. Damn he did do a number on me. *

Mobbex: What happened to your face?

I turn to look at him he’s holding his head.

What happened to your head?

I move beside him and roughly examine the goose egg he’s sporting.

Mobbex: Oww easy you ain’t no Doctor.

True enough. She seen this yet?

Mobbex: Yeah, ain’t told me nothing I don’t know yet, but she seen me.

Good get her to patch you up. We got important crime to be done. Can’t be doing it without you.

Mobbex *dazed and confused* : Shucks that’s kinda sweet. You needing me and all.

*I step back and take a look at the big merc. He notices the look on my face and shakes his head. Sits up straight.*

Mobbex: I mean I’ll…I’ll be ready Captain.

Yeah…why don’t you lay back down till Doc gets back.

*I head up to the bridge and tell Wash to get us in the air. Once we break atmo I get on the com. *

We got a job people. Going to need all of you to pull this off. *thinking back to Mobbex* We got a couple days journey. I’ll fill you in at dinner.

ABBEYGIRL

Saturday, May 24, 2008 3:31 PM

*After he finishes his conversation with Brit. He replays the statement Brit had told him.*

Quote:
Originally posted by Colt999:
Brit: Better than you. It’s not her fault. You should listen. She didn't know.

*He decides to go and see abbey. Try to get everything out in the open. They run into each other on the catwalk outside her shuttle. abbey is still angry, so she just glares at him.*

Colt: abbey…

abbey *curtly*: What?

Colt: Brit said you didn’t know. That it wasn’t your fault.

abbey: Of course I didn’t know.

Colt: Why didn’t you tell me you were going to see him?

abbey: I was trying to avoid what happened the last two times you both came across each other. Looks like I was wrong.

Colt: Why’d he come here?

abbey: He’s an old friend. Feels protective–

Colt *interrupts her, he gets to the point, he needs to know*: Are you sleeping with him?

abbey *adamantly*: No!

Colt: Have you ever? *abbey stands fuming at him, but she is silent. He gets a smug look on his face.* That’s what I thought.

*He turns to leave but she grabs his shoulder.*

abbey: It was a long time ago! Nine years, Colt! And it only lasted 3 months.

Colt *angrily*: And he’s a regular customer now. How convenient. *abbey takes a swing at him but he catches her arm.*

abbey: I told you before. I don’t take relationships lightly.

Colt: Oh yes… You have standards.

abbey: Apparently not as high as I thought.

Colt: Why’s that?

abbey: Cause I chose you! Didn’t anything we shared over the past couple weeks mean anything to you? *Colt clapped his hand over her mouth and pushed her back closer to her shuttle, so they wouldn’t be seen. When he lets go, she screams at him* What do you think you’re doing?

Colt: Don’t want to air our dirty laundry in front of anyone.

abbey: Is that what you think of me? Am I just your dirty laundry?

Colt *softening*: That’s not… That’s not what I meant.

abbey *tears starting to well in her eyes*: Since Grayson, there has been no one, Colt. No one! Just you. *pauses* Only you. I thought it meant something…

Colt *starting to feel like a heel*: abbey…

abbey *softly, a tear running down her cheek*: I guess I was wrong.

*She started to walk away, but he grabbed her hand.*

Colt: I didn’t mean… It did mean something to me-

abbey *interrupting him this time, tears now flowing freely*: I’m not so sure. Maybe I did make a mistake. Maybe I should go. This only cements why I don’t let anyone into my life. It hurts too bad.

*She pulls her arm out of his grasp and goes inside her shuttle and closes the door behind her. When she gets inside, she sees the empty glass of d’Orange from earlier. She pours herself another one, sits down and cries.*

*Colt stands outside, staring at her door with his hand still outstretched. He knows he has gone too far and said things he shouldn’t of. That he didn't mean. He all but called her a whore… again. The thing is that she did mean something to him. That’s probably why he reacts to her that way. He goes to her door and starts to knock, but stops himself. There is no way she’d see him now. He’d be lucky if she doesn’t pack up her things and leave at Newhall. He can’t let her do that. He doesn’t want her to go. He screwed up and screwed up badly. He leaves her doorway and starts down towards the infirmary to check out his wounds and to try to think of a way to fix his fight with abbey.*

ORAM

Monday, May 26, 2008 1:49 PM

*After searching the ship for the Captain, Oram returns to the infirmary, mumbling to herself about crappy comm systems and non-functioning things in general, as she crosses the threshold she sees that Mobbex has his eyes closed and appears to be dozing. Harshly swearing under her breath, Oram hesitates for a few seconds before slapping the Merc as hard as she can across the face. He wakes with a start, clearly confused at what woke him and why his face is stinging; a glance at the small nervous Doc who is shanking her hand slightly is all he needs to piece is together*

Mobbex: *still dazedly* Wuzghuagahm?!

Oram: Now put words to that sentence…

Mobbex: Wha's wrong with you?

Oram: Don’t want you going to sleep, sleeping can cause a coma or death… and I particularly don’t want to go through one or both of those phases.

Mobbex: Huh?

Oram: *ignoring him, she continues on, drawing up a needle with purple liquid* This will help … will keep you awake for about… 3 days. *At Mobbex’s worried look* Don’t worry, I had to use it to pass my medical exams… I actually didn’t sleep for a month… but, you’re large-ish, so you’ll be fine. *She just smiles, not to unease her patient, as she injects him*

ABBEYGIRL

Tuesday, May 27, 2008 11:41 PM

*It had been an hour or so since abbey's big blow-up with Colt. She had cried right after it happened, but after the initial shock of it all, she had then started to pace. Back and forth across the room. She almost thought she would wear a path across the floor.*

*She was trying to decide what to do. Should she go ahead and take Grayson upon his offer? Start a brand new life? The thought of having to start completely over again wearied her, but maybe he was right. Or should she stick it out here, if only for Oram. She had made a home here in her shuttle and she liked what she was doing. She didn't relish the thought of starting something completely new.*

*She went over to her cortex link and opened a channel. She typed in Grayson's address and was about to push the "enter" button when she heard a knock at the door. She paused for a moment, thinking about whether or not to ignore it, but decided to answer it. It could be Oram.*

*She slowly opened the door to find that no one was there. She frowned a bit before turning to close it back. Then she noticed it. A simple piece of paper taped to the door frame. She pulled it off and went back inside her shuttle before opening it. It was a simple note. Six words:*

I'm sorry. I didn't mean it.

*She went back over to the cortex and her finger hovered over the "enter" button again. She battled over whether or not to push it. She looked down at the note again.*

I'm sorry. I didn't mean it.

*She decided that more thinking was needed, so she turned off the cortex.*

MOBBEX

Wednesday, May 28, 2008 4:24 PM

Mobbex instinctively draws back as Oram walks over to him, holding a frighteningly large hypodermic needle in her hand.

Mobbex: Whoa now! Back up a little bit. What's this business 'bout there being no sackin' off fo' me?

Oram: *steps a couple of paces back and folds her arms across her chest* Well, you obviously have suffered some form of brain trauma. I don't have the apparatus to make a formal diagnostic, but given the nature and acuteness of your symptoms... *pauses, sighing at Mobbex's clueless look* ...It's... basically, your brain's bruised.

Mobbex: *his eyes widen in utter shock* ...Brain's hurt?

Oram: *nods* Yup. And this ain't the kind of thing where you can just swig down some pills and kiss it goodbye. Long story short, 'you go to sleep now, you might not wake up. Ever.

Mobbex gives an audible gulp.

Oram: Come on, gimme your arm... *Mobbex holds out his right arm; Oram rolls her eyes * Palm up, gorram it... you make it look like it's the first time you've ever had an IV... *holds the syringe up and expertly taps taps the barrel with her middle finger* ...Didn't you get the compulsory inoculations and stuff back home?

Mobbex: Girl, back where I hail from, we don't have no fancy shots and caps and the like. Folks work out their misfortunes the ol' fashioned way. *gives half a smile as he reminisces* Heck, my ma used to chuck me over to the chapel when I'd get queasy, 'said to get a blessing from the rev...

Oram: *raises a quizzical eyebrow at him* You? Church?

Mobbex: Yeah... 'Truth be told, I think she just did that so the bug wouldn't spread among the kiddies... she w'z a cunning lady. 'Strong as a horse, too.

Oram: *her lips curl into a smile* Yeah, I bet she was... *spots a suitable vein and thrust the needle through his his skin* I didn't know you had siblings.

Mobbex: *gives a light shrug* 'Don't see how y'coudl've.

Oram: *shrugs right back* Yeah, I guess you're right... *pulls the needle out of his arm and dumps it down the trash chute* ...all right, you're good to go. Remember to stay hydrated, and don't strain yourself to hard, or else your condition is almost certain to worsen... *Mobbex winces visibly* ...I mean it! No working out, doctor's order.

Mobbex: *makes a grumpy face* Fine.

Oram: Oh, and... *glances around with a pensive look on her face, then reaches out a hand and grabs a small foil pack from a nearby shelf* Take a couple of these if the headaches get real bad. *hands him the foil pack* Never more than two, though, 'wouldn't want you to end up like Abbey...

Mobbex: *nods, albeit somewhat hesitantly, and tucks the small package in the back pocket of his jean pants* Thanks, doc. *feels a familiar tug on his stomach* Whew... *brings a hand up to stroke his belly*...'am hungry!

Oram: Yeah... me too, actually.

Mobbex: *hops off the couch and makes for the door* A'think I'm gonna head for galley and fix myself something... wanna come?

Oram: *looks contemplative for a moment, then shrugs and follows suit* Sure.

Mobbex, as they head out: Did we get fresh fruits?

Secret Agent Stan: The ducks have settled in the coffee shop......

ABBEYGIRL

Thursday, May 29, 2008 2:42 AM

Moving on...

Here's our new thread:

http://www.fireflyfans.net/thread.asp?b=21&t=33796

Bye!

ABBEYGIRL

Saturday, April 26, 2014 1:20 PM

New address for this thread:

http://www.fireflyfans.net/mthread.aspx?bid=21&tid=33796

Like Firefly and Role Playing? Visit www.theverseonline.com.

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