Akraya's stomach growled slightly when Sylen mentioned food - it had been quite some time since she'd eaten, and since then she'd been performing aerobatics and getting into a fight. A glance at Desuko told her that her sister was also starting to get a little hungry.
Desuko stuck close to Akraya as they accompanied the primary crew to the mess hall; both of them pulled Ariesse-style perches over in place of humanoid chairs, staking out their places - Akraya next to Sylen in the absence of both Sophie and Jessan, Desuko as close to Daxia as she could possibly get - before queueing up for meals.
As Sylen passed Desuko, having escorted his prisoner to the brig, the younger Ariesse turned to him, and whispered, "I didn't get a chance to say earlier - congratulations on your promotion, sir." She'd surmised that he and Kellen had switched roles at some point - though they'd pretty much been doing the same job anyway, as far as she could tell.
The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Last edited by Jim Gamma on May 6th, 2016, 10:19 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
When she first started to regain consciousness, Sophie was vaguely aware she was horizontal instead of vertically on her feet with her stunner in hand. For a few moments she didn't know why it was wrong to be horizontal with no weapon in her hand-then she started to regain consciousness and remembered the fight. She opened her eyes to see nothing but blurry outlines so she blinked several times and things became clearer. She was on her bed and the familiar visage of Jessan was nearby.
Sophie blinked again and realised she was in her quarters instead of fighting out in the street. Groggily she reasoned she must have been hit by a stunner and been taken back to the Firestorm. "Jessan?" She frowned as she'd slurred his name, not to mention there was a small headache forming what felt like just behind her eyes. "Is everyone safe?" She asked, her words clearer this time. She was hoping that none of the crew had been taken by the leather-clad thugs that had attacked them.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Daxia lined up with the others at the galley, not missing the fact that Desuko was choosing to stay close to her. She understood why, of course. As a young, green new police officer back on the homeworld she'd stuck close to her partner after her first fight when a suspect violently resisted arrest. In response Daxia gently stroked one of Desuko's wings with her tail in a friendly, affectionate gesture as she loaded her plate with food. "For some reason, fighting always makes me hungry." She remarked conversationally to Desuko as they sat back down at the main table.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sylen unceremoniously dumped his prisoner into the adjoining cell then headed back toward the messhall with Kellen and T'Sarrina. "I have to admit I'm looking forward to interrogating those two." He remarked as they walked along. "I learned a few interesting but very uncomfortable interrogation techniques in the Di'Lekk Army." He mentioned, still somewhat annoyed with the thugs. He changed topic though once they entered the messhall where food had already been prepared. Sylen loaded up his plate then went and sat down in his place next to Akraya and smiled over at Desuko when she quietly congratulated him. "Thank you. Kellen wants me to gain more command experience in preparation for the time when Daxia finally gets pregnant and he takes paternity leave." He explained to her as they ate.
Sophie blinked again and realised she was in her quarters instead of fighting out in the street. Groggily she reasoned she must have been hit by a stunner and been taken back to the Firestorm. "Jessan?" She frowned as she'd slurred his name, not to mention there was a small headache forming what felt like just behind her eyes. "Is everyone safe?" She asked, her words clearer this time. She was hoping that none of the crew had been taken by the leather-clad thugs that had attacked them.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Daxia lined up with the others at the galley, not missing the fact that Desuko was choosing to stay close to her. She understood why, of course. As a young, green new police officer back on the homeworld she'd stuck close to her partner after her first fight when a suspect violently resisted arrest. In response Daxia gently stroked one of Desuko's wings with her tail in a friendly, affectionate gesture as she loaded her plate with food. "For some reason, fighting always makes me hungry." She remarked conversationally to Desuko as they sat back down at the main table.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sylen unceremoniously dumped his prisoner into the adjoining cell then headed back toward the messhall with Kellen and T'Sarrina. "I have to admit I'm looking forward to interrogating those two." He remarked as they walked along. "I learned a few interesting but very uncomfortable interrogation techniques in the Di'Lekk Army." He mentioned, still somewhat annoyed with the thugs. He changed topic though once they entered the messhall where food had already been prepared. Sylen loaded up his plate then went and sat down in his place next to Akraya and smiled over at Desuko when she quietly congratulated him. "Thank you. Kellen wants me to gain more command experience in preparation for the time when Daxia finally gets pregnant and he takes paternity leave." He explained to her as they ate.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Desuko was surprised and pleased by Daxia's knowledge of how to calm a nervous Ariesse. Eating a bite of her meal, she responded to her comment, "Akraya and I had just been doing a display in the park. Gymnastics are fun, but they take it out of you. Going straight from that to a fight... I'm not surprised either of us are hungry." Changing the subject, since Sylen had brought Daxia and Kellen's relationship up, she asked, "How are you and Kellen doing?"
***
Akraya had heard Desuko's congratulations, and caught her eye, nodding slightly in approval - Desuko had no doubt heard Sylen introduce himself as the XO to the police. It had happened so recently, Akraya hadn't had time to tell her yet.
She tucked into her food as Sylen sat next to her. "How are our prisoners? I'm not that familiar with human anatomy - I hope I didn't do so much damage you can't question the one I spiked?"
***
Akraya had heard Desuko's congratulations, and caught her eye, nodding slightly in approval - Desuko had no doubt heard Sylen introduce himself as the XO to the police. It had happened so recently, Akraya hadn't had time to tell her yet.
She tucked into her food as Sylen sat next to her. "How are our prisoners? I'm not that familiar with human anatomy - I hope I didn't do so much damage you can't question the one I spiked?"
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Pedras nipped to his quarters quickly before joining the primary crew in the mess hall. He was as anxious to know what was going on as everyone else, but he had a task to take care of first; as he'd told the two Ariesse, he wanted to send a brief warning to his sister.
Using a series of code-words in exact locations within his message, he advised her that there was a low risk that his friends and family may become the target of unknown groups, and that she should be wary. They usually were anyway, but this would at least let them know of the increased danger.
Once he'd queued it for dispatch, he headed to the mess hall, where most of the crew - sans Jessan and Sophie - were already eating, and grabbed a plate of food, joining them at the table.
Using a series of code-words in exact locations within his message, he advised her that there was a low risk that his friends and family may become the target of unknown groups, and that she should be wary. They usually were anyway, but this would at least let them know of the increased danger.
Once he'd queued it for dispatch, he headed to the mess hall, where most of the crew - sans Jessan and Sophie - were already eating, and grabbed a plate of food, joining them at the table.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Kellen smirked as they walked back to the messhall. "I can't wait to witness it." He said, then quieted as they walked into the messhall and he found Daxia soothing Desuko. He wen't over and grabbed himself a large plate of food and wound his tail around Daxia's waist as he sat with them on her other side. He glanced over at Akraya when she asked about the one she mauled. "Oh no, he'll be able to answer questions."
****************
T'Sarrina walked into the messhall with Sylen and got herself some food. Then she smiled at Akraya when she asked about the one who was mauled. "No tendons were severed, he'll still be able to feed himself when he heals, but that's about it. He'll be able to answer questions."
She was proud and happy about how Sylen had effortlessly taken on the role of XO, just as he had been trained to do by Kellen for the day when he would take paternity leave.
As for what was going on, T'Sarrina would wait until Sophie got there. She would add whatever she needed to, but she would let Sophie do most of the talking. She was pretty confident that they would all still have her back once they knew. Sophie had simply been unfortunate enough to be born a Guerrin, but she was nothing like them.
****************
Jessan rose from his chair and sat on the bed when he saw Sophie stirring and waking. When she called to him, he smiled. "Everyone is fine. No one was injured, except for one of the thugs. Akraya got him in the shoulders. We have him and another one in the brig for questioning. Take your time sitting up, everyone is in the mess when you're ready. Sylen sent them there."
He put his arm around her to assist her. "I guess it's time to tell them the truth."
****************
T'Sarrina walked into the messhall with Sylen and got herself some food. Then she smiled at Akraya when she asked about the one who was mauled. "No tendons were severed, he'll still be able to feed himself when he heals, but that's about it. He'll be able to answer questions."
She was proud and happy about how Sylen had effortlessly taken on the role of XO, just as he had been trained to do by Kellen for the day when he would take paternity leave.
As for what was going on, T'Sarrina would wait until Sophie got there. She would add whatever she needed to, but she would let Sophie do most of the talking. She was pretty confident that they would all still have her back once they knew. Sophie had simply been unfortunate enough to be born a Guerrin, but she was nothing like them.
****************
Jessan rose from his chair and sat on the bed when he saw Sophie stirring and waking. When she called to him, he smiled. "Everyone is fine. No one was injured, except for one of the thugs. Akraya got him in the shoulders. We have him and another one in the brig for questioning. Take your time sitting up, everyone is in the mess when you're ready. Sylen sent them there."
He put his arm around her to assist her. "I guess it's time to tell them the truth."
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
"Oh good." Sophie responded after Jessan brought her up to speed. "It sounds like they correctly anticipated I'd want to speak to the senior crew once I woke." She sat up carefully and patiently waited for her head to finish clearing from the effects of the stun blast before easing to her feet. She was glad that he had his arm around her in case she'd pushed herself too fast. "And yes, its time to tell them. They need to understand the situation." She confirmed to him. After a few experimental steps, she felt much more stable so she took his hand and headed for the messhall. The annoying headache behind her eyes was already fading away.
Sophie wasn't looking forward to explaining her history-she'd spent her entire adult life running away from her unwanted heritage. Now it was about to all come out into the open and she wasn't sure how her crew would respond. So she steeled herself as they approached the messhall before entering with Jessan. Her senior crew were gathered around the largest table in the centre of the messhall so she went straight to the head of the table. "Okay... I know why those thugs attacked and I have some things to explain." She began, wanting to get it all out at once before she changed her mind.
"Firstly, thank you for coming to my aid, I really appreciate it. Especially you Desuko. You didn't have to do that." Sophie smiled at the Arisse and continued. "Ok the thing is, I wasn't born Sophie Guerrin. I was actually born as Sophie Theirrin. Yes, those Theirrins of the Theirrin Cartel. I'm the third-born child out of four and would have been one of the heirs to the whole organisation had I not thrown it all away once I reached eighteen years." Once that part was out of the way, the rest of the explanation became easier. "My parents were often too busy to really raise me and my siblings so sometimes my aunt and uncle would take care of us. They wanted nothing to do with the Cartel and for me, their lessons of ethics and morality stuck. Its true as a teenager I did run some jobs for them as a means for me to 'learn the ways of the business' but I never really liked it. And I drew the line at slavery. Wouldn't touch the slave trade at all. But of course my parents were sure that I'd adjust eventually and tried to make me deliver someone their operatives had captured to our home not long after I turned eighteen."
She glanced at T'Sarrina. "That was actually T'Sarrina. My parents wanted a personal physician and had her kidnapped. I was to use the Firestorm to deliver her. So yeah at that point I decided I'd had enough. I absconded with T'Sarrina and the Firestorm, used my old contacts to change all our names and credentials and thus Sophie Guerrin was born. T'Sarrina agreed to stay with me as the ship's doctor and the rest of you we picked up on the way." She shook her head. "Well that's my history in brief. I honestly thought we'd done enough to bury my original identity so deep nobody would find out, especially not my parents. It looks like my cover is blown since our attackers used the Theirrin name. Don't be fooled, they weren't thugs but professional mercenaries likely hired to do the job of bringing me back to my parents." Sophie explained and although she still had a bit more to tell her crew, she paused here to let them absorb and reflect on what they'd been told so far.
Sophie wasn't looking forward to explaining her history-she'd spent her entire adult life running away from her unwanted heritage. Now it was about to all come out into the open and she wasn't sure how her crew would respond. So she steeled herself as they approached the messhall before entering with Jessan. Her senior crew were gathered around the largest table in the centre of the messhall so she went straight to the head of the table. "Okay... I know why those thugs attacked and I have some things to explain." She began, wanting to get it all out at once before she changed her mind.
"Firstly, thank you for coming to my aid, I really appreciate it. Especially you Desuko. You didn't have to do that." Sophie smiled at the Arisse and continued. "Ok the thing is, I wasn't born Sophie Guerrin. I was actually born as Sophie Theirrin. Yes, those Theirrins of the Theirrin Cartel. I'm the third-born child out of four and would have been one of the heirs to the whole organisation had I not thrown it all away once I reached eighteen years." Once that part was out of the way, the rest of the explanation became easier. "My parents were often too busy to really raise me and my siblings so sometimes my aunt and uncle would take care of us. They wanted nothing to do with the Cartel and for me, their lessons of ethics and morality stuck. Its true as a teenager I did run some jobs for them as a means for me to 'learn the ways of the business' but I never really liked it. And I drew the line at slavery. Wouldn't touch the slave trade at all. But of course my parents were sure that I'd adjust eventually and tried to make me deliver someone their operatives had captured to our home not long after I turned eighteen."
She glanced at T'Sarrina. "That was actually T'Sarrina. My parents wanted a personal physician and had her kidnapped. I was to use the Firestorm to deliver her. So yeah at that point I decided I'd had enough. I absconded with T'Sarrina and the Firestorm, used my old contacts to change all our names and credentials and thus Sophie Guerrin was born. T'Sarrina agreed to stay with me as the ship's doctor and the rest of you we picked up on the way." She shook her head. "Well that's my history in brief. I honestly thought we'd done enough to bury my original identity so deep nobody would find out, especially not my parents. It looks like my cover is blown since our attackers used the Theirrin name. Don't be fooled, they weren't thugs but professional mercenaries likely hired to do the job of bringing me back to my parents." Sophie explained and although she still had a bit more to tell her crew, she paused here to let them absorb and reflect on what they'd been told so far.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Jessan made sure to keep an arm around Sophie as she tested her balance, and then he held her hand as they walked to the messhall. He stayed with her and held her hand as she started explaining about the Theirrins and what they wanted with T'Sarrina. Likely Sylen knew all about it, as he did. But how the others would feel about it, he had no idea, though he hoped they would remain with them. He sure wasn't going anywhere. In fact, he was thinking of ways he could sabotage them without ever going near them. And it would hurt them right where they would feel it most. In their pocketbooks.
******************************
T'Sarrina smiled when Sophie walked into the messhall. She did watch her carefully as she came over to the table, but she was mostly recovered from the stun blast from what the doctor could tell from her outward physical symptoms. Then she listened as Sophie told her story and the memories of that were something she would never forget. When some of the others turned to look at her, she only nodded. "It's the truth. I was a quivering mass of nerves sitting in a cage when Sophie first saw me, and I was badly in need of some scale creme."
********************************
Kellen was stunned, to say the least, to hear Sophie tell them all that she was actually a Theirren. He didn't know much about them, except that they were one of the biggest cartels in the known worlds and that if it was illegal, they had a finger in it. He applauded Sophie for getting away from that. And T'Sarrina...he'd had no idea. But the deep friendship of the two now made a lot more sense.
"Just point my guns and tell me who you want dead." Was all he had to say about it. He didn't know what they wanted with her that they would attempt to kidnap her, but he didn't like it. As it was, his tail was lashing quite angrily, and anyone who knew tail language would know it.
******************************
T'Sarrina smiled when Sophie walked into the messhall. She did watch her carefully as she came over to the table, but she was mostly recovered from the stun blast from what the doctor could tell from her outward physical symptoms. Then she listened as Sophie told her story and the memories of that were something she would never forget. When some of the others turned to look at her, she only nodded. "It's the truth. I was a quivering mass of nerves sitting in a cage when Sophie first saw me, and I was badly in need of some scale creme."
********************************
Kellen was stunned, to say the least, to hear Sophie tell them all that she was actually a Theirren. He didn't know much about them, except that they were one of the biggest cartels in the known worlds and that if it was illegal, they had a finger in it. He applauded Sophie for getting away from that. And T'Sarrina...he'd had no idea. But the deep friendship of the two now made a lot more sense.
"Just point my guns and tell me who you want dead." Was all he had to say about it. He didn't know what they wanted with her that they would attempt to kidnap her, but he didn't like it. As it was, his tail was lashing quite angrily, and anyone who knew tail language would know it.
Last edited by Chatty on May 7th, 2016, 11:18 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Pedras blinked, considering Sophie's story. He knew full well that many mercenaries had something to hide, and wasn't surprised that the captain was among them. That it was something so personal, so vital to her sense of identity, he hadn't expected.
"Captain, what matters is not who your family are - you can't choose them," he said after a moment. "What matters is who you are and what you do; that, you do have control over. I'm with you, no matter what."
Akraya glanced around the room, never having heard of the Theirrins. A few of the crew looked startled, even worried, so she knew it was something bad. When the captain paused, she offered, "A name is just a label. Pedras is right - you're the sum of your actions, not the sum of what other people call you."
Desuko nodded, agreeing. "I don't think either Akraya or I have heard of the Theirrins, but if they're into criminal activities, then I can see why you're trying to keep away from them. We'll both back you, Captain. And so will Dad - if they're trying to enslave T'sarrina, there must be something he can do to help; he is a lawyer, after all."
"Captain, what matters is not who your family are - you can't choose them," he said after a moment. "What matters is who you are and what you do; that, you do have control over. I'm with you, no matter what."
Akraya glanced around the room, never having heard of the Theirrins. A few of the crew looked startled, even worried, so she knew it was something bad. When the captain paused, she offered, "A name is just a label. Pedras is right - you're the sum of your actions, not the sum of what other people call you."
Desuko nodded, agreeing. "I don't think either Akraya or I have heard of the Theirrins, but if they're into criminal activities, then I can see why you're trying to keep away from them. We'll both back you, Captain. And so will Dad - if they're trying to enslave T'sarrina, there must be something he can do to help; he is a lawyer, after all."
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Daxia's jaw dropped open in surprise and sudden concern, because as a former police officer-even one who had only worked within the confines of the Mikoatty Empire-she knew about the Theirrin Cartel. She'd heard rumours of the family. The mother and the father at the head of the vast interstellar criminal organisation, and their three children and heirs. There had been rumours of a fourth heir some years back but the Mikoatty Authorities had dismissed it as rumour.
To hear it was true, and Sophie was the missing fourth heir was quite a shock.
For the benefit of Akraya and Desuko she decided to explain briefly. "The Theirrin family are the leaders of a large interstellar criminal cartel. They're very wealthy and have their fingers in just about every major form of crime imaginable. Gun, drugs or slave manufacture or smuggling, piracy, money laundering-you name it. They've been around a long time. But..." Here Daxia took a deep breath. "We've lived with Sophie long enough to know she's obviously nothing to do with her family." She glanced at Sophie. "You still have my complete loyalty, Captain." She affirmed.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sylen nodded soberly as T'Sarrina had already told him the truth as soon as their relationship had started to get serious. He'd been surprised but he'd kept their secret without having ever spoken about it with Sophie as he'd decided it didn't need to be discussed. "I already knew of course." He announced. "And it doesn't matter to me. The rest of your biological so-called 'family' may be bad people but you're not. That's all that matters." Sylen couldn't help but coil one of his longer tentacles around T'Sarrina's lower arm in a protective and loyal gesture. It hadn't escaped his notice that neither Crimson nor Djo had said anything yet, but Sylen could see looks of doubt in their faces. He returned his attention to Sophie quickly. "Do you know why they tried to abduct you rather than outright kill you?" He asked, making a slight face as he did so but it was a question that needed to be asked.
To hear it was true, and Sophie was the missing fourth heir was quite a shock.
For the benefit of Akraya and Desuko she decided to explain briefly. "The Theirrin family are the leaders of a large interstellar criminal cartel. They're very wealthy and have their fingers in just about every major form of crime imaginable. Gun, drugs or slave manufacture or smuggling, piracy, money laundering-you name it. They've been around a long time. But..." Here Daxia took a deep breath. "We've lived with Sophie long enough to know she's obviously nothing to do with her family." She glanced at Sophie. "You still have my complete loyalty, Captain." She affirmed.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sylen nodded soberly as T'Sarrina had already told him the truth as soon as their relationship had started to get serious. He'd been surprised but he'd kept their secret without having ever spoken about it with Sophie as he'd decided it didn't need to be discussed. "I already knew of course." He announced. "And it doesn't matter to me. The rest of your biological so-called 'family' may be bad people but you're not. That's all that matters." Sylen couldn't help but coil one of his longer tentacles around T'Sarrina's lower arm in a protective and loyal gesture. It hadn't escaped his notice that neither Crimson nor Djo had said anything yet, but Sylen could see looks of doubt in their faces. He returned his attention to Sophie quickly. "Do you know why they tried to abduct you rather than outright kill you?" He asked, making a slight face as he did so but it was a question that needed to be asked.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Sophie felt somewhat encouraged by the responses of most of her crew. None of them had reacted by panicking or calling her a monster or accusing her of betraying their trust by keeping such a big secret from them. There were a couple looks of doubt to be sure but most of her team had taken the news well and recognised that her Theirrin name meant nothing to her and she was still the same mercenary captain they'd known five minutes ago. Open relief crossed her face as they reassured her that nothing had changed beyond a general desire to help her deal with the situation.
"Akraya, that's a really good idea. I know enough of their smuggling operations for a decent lawyer to tie them up in court and legal preceedings for months or even years." Sophie praised her with a faint smile. That smile vanished however when Sylen asked her why they'd tried to kidnap her rather than kill her. "Ah yeah. I do know why." She admitted slowly. "No doubt part of it is about revenge since I did abscond with one of their best smuggling vessels and a very valuable medically-trained slave. But mostly they want me for... well my bloodline. The Theirrins have various rival syndicates, cartels, mobs and other crime families. They're all jockeying for power and wealth. Part of that of course is by making alliances and mergers." Sophie paused with a distinctly uncomfortable look.
"I'm quite sure my parents want to use me as their daughter to put me into an arranged marriage with a man of some other wealthy criminal family to solidify a merger. And they won't care what I think, and they're bound to know several corrupt priests or officials happy to perform the so-called 'marriage' for them. Then of course both families will want me to produce... heirs." Sophie shook her head in disgust. "Naturally I don't want anything to do with them, or that." She wasn't quite sure what she or her crew could do about it yet though. They'd have to hide deeper with even more risks, or find a way to eliminate the Theirrins from the picture entirely.
"Akraya, that's a really good idea. I know enough of their smuggling operations for a decent lawyer to tie them up in court and legal preceedings for months or even years." Sophie praised her with a faint smile. That smile vanished however when Sylen asked her why they'd tried to kidnap her rather than kill her. "Ah yeah. I do know why." She admitted slowly. "No doubt part of it is about revenge since I did abscond with one of their best smuggling vessels and a very valuable medically-trained slave. But mostly they want me for... well my bloodline. The Theirrins have various rival syndicates, cartels, mobs and other crime families. They're all jockeying for power and wealth. Part of that of course is by making alliances and mergers." Sophie paused with a distinctly uncomfortable look.
"I'm quite sure my parents want to use me as their daughter to put me into an arranged marriage with a man of some other wealthy criminal family to solidify a merger. And they won't care what I think, and they're bound to know several corrupt priests or officials happy to perform the so-called 'marriage' for them. Then of course both families will want me to produce... heirs." Sophie shook her head in disgust. "Naturally I don't want anything to do with them, or that." She wasn't quite sure what she or her crew could do about it yet though. They'd have to hide deeper with even more risks, or find a way to eliminate the Theirrins from the picture entirely.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Jessan didn't pay much attention to those who were expressing doubt, and he listened at Sophie explained why her family wanted her alive. If he had been angry before, his anger was now doubled. "Oh, hell no! They are not forcing you to marry, nor be subjected to forced childbearing! I won't let them!" He already had some vague ideas to tumble that empire down via paring down their vast wealth. If he could get into their bank accounts. "Perhaps it's time someone spanked them where it hurts. In their bank accounts."
*************************
"I echo Jessan." Kellen was quite furious now. He knew how much Sophie and Jessan loved each other, and to pull one away from the other was not right. "And perhaps it's time to show them what happens when they piss someone off." His tail was lashing even more and he patted his gun at his side.
He didn't care which of them might not want to help Sophie, given what she'd just revealed, but he didn't care. It was obvious that she had left that life behind, if not totally disowned them altogether. If they had to bring down this particular cartel, then they would. Jessan was more than capable of raiding just about any bank account he wanted to and Kellen could take out any other mercs they might want to send their way.
**********************
T'Sarrina smiled up at Sylen when he looped a protective tentacle around her arm, and she patted it gently. She'd known he didn't care that she was on the run from one of the largest crime families in the known galaxies, he had simply promised to protect her and keep them from 'reclaiming' her. After all, they'd paid someone for her and they would want their 'investment'. She was very grateful for his protection and his love and she never ceased to let him know how much.
"I think Jessan is right too. They're not going to stop trying to get either one of us unless we make it unprofitable for them."
*************************
"I echo Jessan." Kellen was quite furious now. He knew how much Sophie and Jessan loved each other, and to pull one away from the other was not right. "And perhaps it's time to show them what happens when they piss someone off." His tail was lashing even more and he patted his gun at his side.
He didn't care which of them might not want to help Sophie, given what she'd just revealed, but he didn't care. It was obvious that she had left that life behind, if not totally disowned them altogether. If they had to bring down this particular cartel, then they would. Jessan was more than capable of raiding just about any bank account he wanted to and Kellen could take out any other mercs they might want to send their way.
**********************
T'Sarrina smiled up at Sylen when he looped a protective tentacle around her arm, and she patted it gently. She'd known he didn't care that she was on the run from one of the largest crime families in the known galaxies, he had simply promised to protect her and keep them from 'reclaiming' her. After all, they'd paid someone for her and they would want their 'investment'. She was very grateful for his protection and his love and she never ceased to let him know how much.
"I think Jessan is right too. They're not going to stop trying to get either one of us unless we make it unprofitable for them."
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Desuko listened to Daxia's explanation, her eyes growing wider by the second. "If they're such a huge group, I'm impressed you've managed to elude them for so long, Captain. We've managed to defeat a few of their lackeys, but if they're this determined to track you down, they won't stop there."
"No, they won't," Pedras agreed. "Black Steel is going to have to confront them, whether we like it or not. If we don't, they will keep coming after us."
Akraya nodded. "That includes Desuko, doesn't it?"
"Most likely," the Prakeshi answered. "Especially if we get Kerrak involved. I don't doubt the Kaltor military's ability to protect you, though."
"No, they won't," Pedras agreed. "Black Steel is going to have to confront them, whether we like it or not. If we don't, they will keep coming after us."
Akraya nodded. "That includes Desuko, doesn't it?"
"Most likely," the Prakeshi answered. "Especially if we get Kerrak involved. I don't doubt the Kaltor military's ability to protect you, though."
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Automatically Sophie turned to Jessan as his expression contorted with anger when she revealed why her 'family' wanted her alive. She took his clenched fists in her hands gently in an attempt to soothe him. Even in his anger, he'd had a good idea. "Hacking into their bank accounts wouldn't be easy, but it would bring the Theirrins down fast if all their vast credits were wiped out or transferred somewhere else with no possibility of tracing it." She told him, feeling hope at the possibility.
"Without their vast funds they won't be able to pay the hundreds of smugglers, thugs, assassins and such for whatever jobs they're all doing now. That alone would cause said criminals to turn on them, demanding for their pay. That in itself would either ruin the Theirrins and give us a shot at eliminating them, or it would kill them outright without us needing to act." Accomplishing the task of hacking the Theirrin accounts wouldn't be easy. They'd likely have several accounts with several different banks which meant the Black Steel mercs would either have to break into a bank to hack their files, or find a suitable tool or programme that would allow Jessan to do it remotely. But Sophie still liked the idea.
"And Pedras is right. If we get Kerrak involved the Theirrins may target both him and Desuko. But if they were protected by Kaltor's police or military they'd be safe. I can't order them to take those risks." She said as she turned to address the rest of the crew. "Speaking of which, its only fair if I offer everyone on the crew a way to opt out. It'll be dangerous going against the Theirrins and I can't, I won't order anyone to do it. The secondary team will have to be informed and given the choice after this meeting."
Sophie regarded each of the senior crew in turn. "So if any of you think this is too much, I understand and I offer you a way out now. Say so, and I'll release you from your contract. You'll be able to pick up your belongings and escorted to the airlock. I leave the choice up to each one of you." She told them.
"Without their vast funds they won't be able to pay the hundreds of smugglers, thugs, assassins and such for whatever jobs they're all doing now. That alone would cause said criminals to turn on them, demanding for their pay. That in itself would either ruin the Theirrins and give us a shot at eliminating them, or it would kill them outright without us needing to act." Accomplishing the task of hacking the Theirrin accounts wouldn't be easy. They'd likely have several accounts with several different banks which meant the Black Steel mercs would either have to break into a bank to hack their files, or find a suitable tool or programme that would allow Jessan to do it remotely. But Sophie still liked the idea.
"And Pedras is right. If we get Kerrak involved the Theirrins may target both him and Desuko. But if they were protected by Kaltor's police or military they'd be safe. I can't order them to take those risks." She said as she turned to address the rest of the crew. "Speaking of which, its only fair if I offer everyone on the crew a way to opt out. It'll be dangerous going against the Theirrins and I can't, I won't order anyone to do it. The secondary team will have to be informed and given the choice after this meeting."
Sophie regarded each of the senior crew in turn. "So if any of you think this is too much, I understand and I offer you a way out now. Say so, and I'll release you from your contract. You'll be able to pick up your belongings and escorted to the airlock. I leave the choice up to each one of you." She told them.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Daxia listened carefully to what Sophie told them regarding why her 'family' wanted her alive and she wrinkled her nose in disgust while her tail lashed from side to side behind her in short, sharp motions that reflected how angry she was. She knew the Theirrins were bad from reading old case records about them, along with the fact that they'd tried to enslave someone as kind and gentle as T'Sarrina, but she hadn't expected that they'd treat one of their own daughters so badly if given the chance. She had little to contribute to the discussion since she had little engineering or computer skills, but Daxia didn't hesitate for a second when Sophie offered each of them the chance to opt-out now. "I'm not going anywhere, Captain. I'll do whatever I can to help you eliminate the threat your so-called 'family' present." She announced firmly.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sylen was also quick to answer when Sophie offered everyone present in the messhall the chance to walk away now instead of helping to confront the Theirrins. He got his words in right after Daxia had chipped in. "I'm not going anywhere either." He assured her. "I promised simply to protect T'Sarrina when she told me the truth. And I'll do what I can to protect you too." Then the Di'Lekk got a minor surprise when Crimson shook his head. "I'm not going to cross the Theirrins. I want to opt out."
He announced, and Djo then added his choice. "I go with Crimson. We leave Firestorm." He saw Sophie nod and keep her expression neutral as she regarded them. "Very well." She answered. "Kellen, would you mind helping me collect up their belongings and escort them to the airlock?" Sylen both asked and offered helpfully. "If the Captain wants us to, of course." He added.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sylen was also quick to answer when Sophie offered everyone present in the messhall the chance to walk away now instead of helping to confront the Theirrins. He got his words in right after Daxia had chipped in. "I'm not going anywhere either." He assured her. "I promised simply to protect T'Sarrina when she told me the truth. And I'll do what I can to protect you too." Then the Di'Lekk got a minor surprise when Crimson shook his head. "I'm not going to cross the Theirrins. I want to opt out."
He announced, and Djo then added his choice. "I go with Crimson. We leave Firestorm." He saw Sophie nod and keep her expression neutral as she regarded them. "Very well." She answered. "Kellen, would you mind helping me collect up their belongings and escort them to the airlock?" Sylen both asked and offered helpfully. "If the Captain wants us to, of course." He added.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Jessan put his arms around Sophie and tried to get a rein on his temper. While she explained about their various bank accounts, he listened and started formulating a plan. "If they have several bank accounts, if I can get into one of their personal computers I can probably find them and empty them." The more he thought about this, the more he liked it. And he started to relax. The problem with getting into one of their personal computers would be sneaking into their residence, which was likely very well-protected. Still, no place was impenetrable.
"Needless to say, I'm here for you. I know you disowned them the day you found T'Sarrina. Now they found you, they won't leave you alone and possibly might target your friends it's time to take the fight to them."
*********************
"Damn straight I'm not going anywhere." Kellen's tail was lashing in time with Daxia's. He then nodded at Sylen when he was asked to help get Crimson's extensive firearm collection off the ship. "I'll be happy to."
While he harbored no actual ill will towards the big guy, he was a loose cannon at times and really wasn't a good fit for their team. He was definitely better off being a lone loose cannon.
"Needless to say, I'm here for you. I know you disowned them the day you found T'Sarrina. Now they found you, they won't leave you alone and possibly might target your friends it's time to take the fight to them."
*********************
"Damn straight I'm not going anywhere." Kellen's tail was lashing in time with Daxia's. He then nodded at Sylen when he was asked to help get Crimson's extensive firearm collection off the ship. "I'll be happy to."
While he harbored no actual ill will towards the big guy, he was a loose cannon at times and really wasn't a good fit for their team. He was definitely better off being a lone loose cannon.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Akraya would be sorry to see Crimson go, but she could see his point. Nevertheless, she hadn't got onto the primary crew by being a wimp. "As I've already said, I'm with you, Captain. You'll have Dad's full support, too; he's not a pushover - you know how long it took to convince him to let me join you."
"For what it's worth, you have mine, if you need it," Desuko added. "I'm not sure what I can actually do to help, though."
"I've already sent Sarva and her family into hiding," Pedras pointed out, referring to his sister. "They'll be safe, so I have no problem staying here." He thought for a moment, staring at Desuko. "However, I'm not convinced it's safe sending Desuko back to Kaltor if we're involving Kerrak. The fewer targets we present, the better."
"For what it's worth, you have mine, if you need it," Desuko added. "I'm not sure what I can actually do to help, though."
"I've already sent Sarva and her family into hiding," Pedras pointed out, referring to his sister. "They'll be safe, so I have no problem staying here." He thought for a moment, staring at Desuko. "However, I'm not convinced it's safe sending Desuko back to Kaltor if we're involving Kerrak. The fewer targets we present, the better."
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Sophie nodded to Sylen and Kellen. "Yes, good idea. Please go and assist Crimson and Djo in removing their belongings and stash of weapons from the Firestorm please." Sylen then saluted and escorted the two ex-crewmembers out of the messhall, pausing only so Djo could take his personal cutlery out of the kitchen. Once they were gone she took a deep breath and nodded to Pedras. "Its up to Desuko. I can't choose for her, nor order her since she isn't part of the crew." She regarded the Ariesse thoughtfully for a few moments. "Of course you're welcome to remain aboard the Firestorm until this situation is dealt with." Sophie assured her. "We have plenty of supplies and several sets of guest quarters so it'd be no trouble to keep you aboard." She smiled. "Unless of course you happen to be a decent cook. We seem to be in need of one of those temporarily until the Theirrins are dealt with and I can recruit replacements again." She suggested.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Kellen nodded when Sophie said they could help Crimson get his stash of weapons off the Firestorm. He only stopped to grab an antigrav cart to assist them in getting it all off at once, considering Crimson had some very heavy weapons, and lots of smaller ones.
Once he loaded all of the weapons from Crimson's quarters onto the cart, he pushed it to the airlock while Sylen escorted the two. Once they were outside, he pushed the cart out and tipped it on its side to slide the stuff off gently into a pile. Then he saluted the two and pushed the cart back on board the ship. If they wanted an antigrav cart to put all that stuff on they'd have to rent one at the spaceport authorities, this one belonged to the Firestorm.
Once he loaded all of the weapons from Crimson's quarters onto the cart, he pushed it to the airlock while Sylen escorted the two. Once they were outside, he pushed the cart out and tipped it on its side to slide the stuff off gently into a pile. Then he saluted the two and pushed the cart back on board the ship. If they wanted an antigrav cart to put all that stuff on they'd have to rent one at the spaceport authorities, this one belonged to the Firestorm.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Desuko only needed a quick glance at Akraya to see her sister would prefer her to stay where the crew could keep her safe. She had to admit, the way they were talking, the Firestorm sounded safer than Kaltor, even if they were heading into battle. "I'd be happy to help in the kitchen - all my family can cook, Mum and Dad made sure of that. It won't be gourmet, but it'll get you through the day and should taste good."
"It might be an idea for T'sarrina to give you access to some compatibility data; you've never cooked for non-Ariesse before," Akraya pointed out. She knew Desuko's comments about her skills were no idle boast - she was probably the best cook of the four siblings, and knew how to balance a meal so that the eater would be well-fuelled for whatever awaited them. It was just a case of learning new tolerances for different races.
"It might be an idea for T'sarrina to give you access to some compatibility data; you've never cooked for non-Ariesse before," Akraya pointed out. She knew Desuko's comments about her skills were no idle boast - she was probably the best cook of the four siblings, and knew how to balance a meal so that the eater would be well-fuelled for whatever awaited them. It was just a case of learning new tolerances for different races.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Sylen simply escorted Crimson and Djo to their quarters and the armoury where he carefully watched to make sure that only weapons and armour that personally belonged to one of the pair made it into the antigrav cart Kellen had thoughtfully brought along. He paused briefly at a console with transfer enough credits that paid the pair adequately for their services to their accounts before politely escorting the pair of leavers outside the airlock onto the cold plascrete ground of the spaceport.
There Sylen handed Crimson and Djo receipts as proof that the Black Steel Company had paid them fairly and terminated their contracts ten minutes ago. With their pile of belongings and weaponry-almost the full entirety of it illegal on Quaylar Four- piled neatly not far from the airlock and all business concluded, the Di'Lekk inclined his head politely at the two ex-mercs. "Farewell." He bid them before following Kellen back onto the ship. He waited until the airlock hatch had clanged shut behind them and quickly changed all the Firestorm and crew's access codes, issuing each crewmember fresh codes. With that done Sylen glanced over at Kellen in the corridor. "I don't envy them." He said lightly.
"I saw a multitude of weapons illegal for a private citizen to bear on Quaylar Four in that cart. His combat shotgun, rocket launcher, portable missile launchers, tracer rounds, his SMG-they're all illegal to own. And even weapons that would normally be legal like a sidearm, well I know Crimson relied exclusively on illegal black market arms dealers so that means all those weapons are illegal too." He noted. "I expect the Port Authority scanners have picked up on all those illegal weapons by now and soon the police will move in and arrest them both. They won't get far on a satellite surveyed planet like this even if they could run with that lot." He remarked. "Should we head back to the messhall then?" He asked, dismissing the situation with their two ex-crew members.
There Sylen handed Crimson and Djo receipts as proof that the Black Steel Company had paid them fairly and terminated their contracts ten minutes ago. With their pile of belongings and weaponry-almost the full entirety of it illegal on Quaylar Four- piled neatly not far from the airlock and all business concluded, the Di'Lekk inclined his head politely at the two ex-mercs. "Farewell." He bid them before following Kellen back onto the ship. He waited until the airlock hatch had clanged shut behind them and quickly changed all the Firestorm and crew's access codes, issuing each crewmember fresh codes. With that done Sylen glanced over at Kellen in the corridor. "I don't envy them." He said lightly.
"I saw a multitude of weapons illegal for a private citizen to bear on Quaylar Four in that cart. His combat shotgun, rocket launcher, portable missile launchers, tracer rounds, his SMG-they're all illegal to own. And even weapons that would normally be legal like a sidearm, well I know Crimson relied exclusively on illegal black market arms dealers so that means all those weapons are illegal too." He noted. "I expect the Port Authority scanners have picked up on all those illegal weapons by now and soon the police will move in and arrest them both. They won't get far on a satellite surveyed planet like this even if they could run with that lot." He remarked. "Should we head back to the messhall then?" He asked, dismissing the situation with their two ex-crew members.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Sophie smiled, pleased with Desuko's decision to stay where she was safest aboard the Firestorm where they could protect her. It was a really added bonus that she was a good cook as well so she could at least temporarily take over Djo's old job since he'd left with Crimson so suddenly at the mere mention of the Theirrin name. "Then for now the kitchen is all yours." She announced. "And yes, T'Sarrina will give you access to the compatability data she wrote up specifically for new cooks to read, study and refer to. It can be a challenge for any new cooks we hire to get to grasps with cooking for so many different alien species so she put together the data and a quicker easy to reference bulletpoint list. Of course if you have any questions about any species you're not sure about, feel free to ask her or any of the medical staff."
Sophie had decided not to plan further about what to do with the Theirrin situation until Jessan and Kellan had returned from their guard duties at the airlock. She glanced at her communicator when her new set of access codes came through. It reminded her of something. "Oh yes, Desuko. While you're here I'm going to grant you basic access to most of the ship and some of the computer systems. The bridge and engineering will be off limits unless escorted by a senior crewmember. And I really don't expect you to work for free so I'll see you're paid a fair wage for being the ship's cook while you're here." She promised.
Sophie had decided not to plan further about what to do with the Theirrin situation until Jessan and Kellan had returned from their guard duties at the airlock. She glanced at her communicator when her new set of access codes came through. It reminded her of something. "Oh yes, Desuko. While you're here I'm going to grant you basic access to most of the ship and some of the computer systems. The bridge and engineering will be off limits unless escorted by a senior crewmember. And I really don't expect you to work for free so I'll see you're paid a fair wage for being the ship's cook while you're here." She promised.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Kellen waited while Sylen immediately changed all codes, as was customary any time a crew member left their employ. It was purely a safety measure that any wise ship captain would employ. Then he chuckled when Sylen talked about Crimson's gun collection. "Yeah, as soon as the scanners pick up that even his 'legal' arms don't have identifying numbers they'll be all over them."
Then he walked with Sylen back to the messhall, effectively washing his hands of the two. Truthfully, Djo was the more likable of the two and he wouldn't have minded if he wanted to stay. He admired the man's devotion to Crimson, but it was about to get him into trouble.
*****************************
T'Sarrina nodded when Sophie brought up the compatibility issues that Desuko would face as ship cook. "Yes, I have all the information you'll need right in the computer here in the messhall. If anything confuses you, I'll be happy to explain it."
Then he walked with Sylen back to the messhall, effectively washing his hands of the two. Truthfully, Djo was the more likable of the two and he wouldn't have minded if he wanted to stay. He admired the man's devotion to Crimson, but it was about to get him into trouble.
*****************************
T'Sarrina nodded when Sophie brought up the compatibility issues that Desuko would face as ship cook. "Yes, I have all the information you'll need right in the computer here in the messhall. If anything confuses you, I'll be happy to explain it."
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Desuko was a little uncomfortable accepting monetary compensation, since she hadn't gone through her Long Flight, but given the situation, she nodded her acceptance. "Thank you, Captain." She glanced around, saw that most of the primary crew had finished their meals, and started clearing up. Fortunately, the cleaning station was automated, so all she needed to do was gather the plates and put them gently into it before switching it on. It took all of two minutes, after which she returned to the table, just in time for the former cooks' escorts to return. "Does anyone want anything from the kitchen right now - either food or drink?"
***
Akraya glanced at her communicator as new codes for the ship came through. "Crimson and Djo are off the ship, then," she noted as the captain remembered to provide Desuko basic access, just as her sister was starting to clear plates away. "That's-" She was about to tell her clearing up could wait, but Desuko was already gone. When she returned, offering to get people more food and drink, Akraya sighed and clacked her beak.
"You're worse than me," the elder sister groaned. "I spent my first two weeks aboard trying to learn absolutely everything about the ship. Jessan had to keep ordering me to slow down and let everything sink in. Sit down."
Desuko did so, only slightly abashed, but still glancing round in case her services were still required.
***
Akraya glanced at her communicator as new codes for the ship came through. "Crimson and Djo are off the ship, then," she noted as the captain remembered to provide Desuko basic access, just as her sister was starting to clear plates away. "That's-" She was about to tell her clearing up could wait, but Desuko was already gone. When she returned, offering to get people more food and drink, Akraya sighed and clacked her beak.
"You're worse than me," the elder sister groaned. "I spent my first two weeks aboard trying to learn absolutely everything about the ship. Jessan had to keep ordering me to slow down and let everything sink in. Sit down."
Desuko did so, only slightly abashed, but still glancing round in case her services were still required.
Last edited by Jim Gamma on May 9th, 2016, 10:24 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
"Oh, no, thank you." Kellen replied to the offer of food. "I'm fine. We just finished offloading a cartload of illegal weapons for Crimson, which should grab the attention of the Port Authority by now."
******************
Jessan walked back in with Kellen and Sylen after he'd gone to watch the airlock while Djo and Crimson and their weapons were escorted off. He also shook his head while he went back over to Sophie and put his arm around her. "I'm fine too, but thank you."
Now with those two gone, they could get down to business. The business of ruining the Theirrins for trying to take Sophie from him.
******************
T'Sarrina twined her tentacle around Sylen's once he walked back into the messhall and over to her. She was relieved to have Crimson off the ship. He always made her just a bit nervous with toting those big guns of his around as if he expected to use them at any time. "We're all fine." She told Desuko. All of them had some food already, now they just had to figure out what to do about the Theirrins.
******************
Jessan walked back in with Kellen and Sylen after he'd gone to watch the airlock while Djo and Crimson and their weapons were escorted off. He also shook his head while he went back over to Sophie and put his arm around her. "I'm fine too, but thank you."
Now with those two gone, they could get down to business. The business of ruining the Theirrins for trying to take Sophie from him.
******************
T'Sarrina twined her tentacle around Sylen's once he walked back into the messhall and over to her. She was relieved to have Crimson off the ship. He always made her just a bit nervous with toting those big guns of his around as if he expected to use them at any time. "We're all fine." She told Desuko. All of them had some food already, now they just had to figure out what to do about the Theirrins.
Re: The Black Steel RP. Rated R.
Sylen politely shook her head at Desuko after Akraya had managed to persuade her to sit down. It was similar to the way Akraya had been during her first two weeks on the Firestorm and that almost made him chuckle out loud as he sat down with T'Sarrina. "Its done. Our two former mercenaries are now off the ship and properly compensated." Sylen made a mental note soon to thank the Captain for expanding his access and privileges to help him learn command properly.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Daxia loosely looped her tail around Kellen's once he and Sylen had returned from escorting the two former mercenaries from the Firestorm. The issue with their illegal firearms crossed her mind although she quickly dismissed all thoughts about them in favour of considering how to take out the Theirrins. She was an expert pilot, and a good fighter but hacking and whatnot wasn't exactly her area. She smiled at Desuko after Akraya had gotten her to sit down. "Its all right you know, Sophie won't expect you to start duties right this instant." She assured her.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Daxia loosely looped her tail around Kellen's once he and Sylen had returned from escorting the two former mercenaries from the Firestorm. The issue with their illegal firearms crossed her mind although she quickly dismissed all thoughts about them in favour of considering how to take out the Theirrins. She was an expert pilot, and a good fighter but hacking and whatnot wasn't exactly her area. She smiled at Desuko after Akraya had gotten her to sit down. "Its all right you know, Sophie won't expect you to start duties right this instant." She assured her.