As JC listened to the negoations between Jon and Badger he kept on alert. He may have been taking advantage of the tuna salad sandwiches but he was far from distracted. He was paying close as Badger continued his spiel.

"I'm sorry but you all seem to be working for a misconception. Now if anyone knew who the Princess was, i'd guess one of the ladies, not you captain. I collect trading card myself but whatever oils your chain. I'm asking you to transport Ms Fairchild her two lackeys and these two. I ain't asking you to throw them a gorram teaparty! You don¡¯t need special foods or rations or clean sheet or pretty dollies on the seats. She likes the charity work on the rim, so she can handle roughing it for awhile. In fact, her daddy would be mighty appreciative of her living like the other half because as I understand it, she's been a bit of a prat about the wedding.¡± Badger sighed dramatically, You have these two for extra security. Introduce yourself boys."


"I'm Rick Simon and that there is my brother AJ. Don't you be fussing Captain, we can handle things as they come. The brother offers a winning smile and a handshake but doesn't comment further. We can bunk together or swing on hammocks in the bay if necessary.

Interesting JC thought to himself as he appraised Badgers two 'sec guards' As he looked them over something did not feel right about the two brothers to him yet he was unsure what that something was. Either they are so good that they are can act casual, or they are too casual to be professional. Either way was clearly trouble, if they took this run they would bear watching. Maybe he could find a way to find out which they actually were.

Badger cleared his throat noisily bringing JC's attention back to the negoations

°Right.The drop is late tonight, not tomorrow am. The idea here is to avoid the press getting wind of The Princess leaving, so her father wants her traveling in-cog-neat-toes. No one would suspect a high flaunting princess on a gar.. ship like yours. Get the picture? Listen. You can't handle the job or your ship is too delicate for five passengers then fine. There an Arrowhead courier in port, I can use them. Don't want to bcause the captain is a wang ba dan and I wanted to give you a chance to make a name. Get established, even hobnob with some bigwigs that could make your business. Kinda guy I am, see? But you can walk away, Guai ma jiao! if you'd like and I will let my people know that you are not quite in my league for jobs. Understand?

Lao yeh!.(1) The Gunfighter thanks to his days with the Tong knew what Badger meant by his use of the term "not in his league".If they screwed this up getting a job in this part, or really any part of the Black once word got out would be worse then having the Wuh duh ma huh ta duh fung-kwong duh wai-shung doh as family. (2)

Turning to face Badger JC spoke for the first time with an edge in his voice.

"I can handle the security Captain, I certainly wouldn't want Mr. Badger here to think we can't handle it."

(1) Oh S***!
(2) Holy mother of God and all her wacky nephews

Badger looked on as Tess and Jon went on with a face that spoke of bemusement. “I’m sorry but you all seem to be working for a misconception. Now if anyone knew who the Princess was, i’d guess one of the ladies, not you captain. I collect trading card myself but whatever oils your chain. I’m asking you to transport Ms Fairchild her two lackeys and these two. I ain’t asking you to throw them a gorram teaparty! You don’t need special foods or rations or clean sheet or pretty dollies on the seats. She likes the charity work on the rim, so she can handle roughing it for awhile. In fact, her daddy would be mighty appreciative of her living like the other half because as I understand it, she’s been a bit of a prat about the wedding.” …………………………..“You have these two for extra security. Introduce yourself boys.”

The youngest of the two brothers steps forward and offers his hand to the captain, “I’m Rick Simon and that there is my brother AJ. Don’t you be fussing Captain, we can handle things as they come.” The brother offers a winning smile and a handshake but doesn’t comment further. “we can bunk together or swing on hammocks in the bay if necessary.” Jon nodded as the two stepped forward. “Simon and Simon…sounds like a ..you know …an accounting business.”

Badger clears his throat noisily, “Right. The drop is late tonight, not tomorrow am. The idea here is to avoid the press getting wind of The Princess leaving, so her father wants her traveling in-cog-neat-toes. No one would suspect a high flaunting princess on a gar.. ship like yours. Get the picture?” Jon snapped his look to Badger as he the word “gar…” left his lips.

“We ain’t no Garbage Scow! …….We take what business we been able get…… You don’t go nowhere if’n you can’t afford to refuel.”
(Tess chimes in too.)

“Listen. You can’t handle the job or your ship is too delicate for five passengers then fine. There an Arrowhead courier in port, I can use them. Don’t want to ‘cause the captain is a wáng bā dàn and I wanted to give you a chance to make a name. Get established, even hobnob with some bigwigs that could make your business. Kinda guy I am, see? But you can walk away, Guǎi mǎ jiǎo!, if you’d like and I will let my people know that you are not quite in my league for jobs. Understand?”
Jc nearly growled,"I can handle the security Captain, I certainly wouldn't want Mr. Badger here to think we can't handle it."

Almost in perfect unison Jon and Tess blert out as if splitting out a spoiled rice,“An.. ARROWHEAD………
Putting his palms to the sides of his forehead,"An ARROWHEAD….you’d put your money into one of those Yi Dwei Da Buen Chuo Roh? (Big stupid pile of stinking meat )…………They’d take twice time to get there, if they don’t break down.”.. Jon spreads out his arms if taking in the whole room. “Look, you’re a man that shows good business sense…..you were the only one to see that Destiny is more than those…..those……” Jon looked at Badger, “We’re the best kept secret in the verse….there ain’t no other boat faster… and there ain’t no crew better….. we need this job, but we’re worth more than 20 a head. You’d pay that….Arrowhead….more than twice that when ya figure how long it’ll take um …even at full burn….and then they’ll most likely be late.”

(Tess can jump in with the facts on the Arrowhead.)

Jon jumps in again,“You ever seen a boat like Destiny?...... I’d guess not,…and neither have the competition. They don’t know what we can do…and that’ll give us…and you… the advantage. That advantage is worth…… 50 a head, cuz we get there before most know we left. We’d give a savvy business man like you an Ace in the hole.”

“I like her. Knows how to appreciate a man’s largess”. Unfortunately, with his accent it sounds more like he says large ass. Any mis-cue the crew might take from this slip is lost as both the young men in suits chortle loudly. Badger turns on them with a glare, “Oi! You ain;t been around with me long enough to be showing anything but respect. I’m the boss! The man who pays you! Don’t be forgetting that.”

The two sheepishly apologize and regain their composure.

“Where was I?” Badger asks while looking at Angela with a smile, “Right. Sorry about that. A businessman like me, with roots in the community needs to remind people how they should behave. Hope I didn’t frighten you.”
Angela had gone very still when Badger had turned on the young men, her expression going cold and hard as she waited for the word from Captain Jon. When Badger turned back to her, crisis averted, Angela went back to wide-eyed wonder, shaking her head at the idea of being frightened.

“No mister, I wasn’t scared,” Angela assured him, tilting her head and smiling in a manner that had no trace of little girl,” you are our host and so we are under your protection, right? I feel very…”and her voice dropped subtly, ”safe.”

Badger seemed satisfied as he turned back to Jonathan and shared the details of the job. Angela went back to nibbling delicately on her sandwich (the drink was far too gritty and lacked caffeine) but she was puzzled by Jon’s reaction, getting all flustered and stammering and clearly inviting Tess to jump in.

The name Liliana Fairchild meant nothing to Angela, but then again, few names did register, but “Princess” certainly made Angela think that this was someone important. Why on earth would the Captain give away face by turning to the pilot? And why would she then make it sound like it was too much bother? Wasn’t this a job they wanted? Needed, even?

- don’t draw attention to yourself – make sure everyone comes home safe – talk to this Badger guy – I know, Gracie, you told me and I did draw attention to myself so I was bad don’t put me in the box! but I can make it right if Jon and Tess would just stop talking and listen to Badger! Why aren’t they listening?
Angela’s head began to hurt and she was glad Badger wasn’t looking at her anymore; she couldn’t keep the smile on her face. Badger was telling them he’d go elsewhere if they weren’t up to the job and Angela could see JC understood what he meant and was trying to shut things down before it got worse but then both Jon and Tess starting blurting things about the other ship like they’d never negotiated in their lives and dammit it all to h*ll why did her head have to hurt so gorram much….

“Well, I think we’ve heard enough,” Angela spoke coolly and quietly, but just enough to be heard over the discussion, “but our host is clearly dealing with some urgency and we are between jobs at the moment, “ she rose from the table and sauntered to stand between Badger and Jon, but closer to Badger.

“You, dear sir,” she turned to Badger with a slight bow of the head and a touch of the smile she’d shared before,” you want us to take this job….I’d even say you need us to take the job because time is tight and we’re the fastest in the ‘Verse, so you’ve put out a fine feast and did everything you could to make us like you.” She leaned in confidentially and smoothed Badger’s lapel “It worked, by the way. I like you…a lot,” she whispered.

“Whereas, us?” Angela straightened to look at Jon and Tess, but mostly at the Captain. “We have a lean operation that moves fast, and that’s gotta mean something. We are also looking for work, and buildin’ a name for ourselves, so being a business partner of someone “in the community” has also got to be worth something.”

She stepped back a bit so that she was no longer between Badger and Jon, and gestured with her hands that they should look at each other. “Now, we have an offer of 20 credits a day and a counter-offer of 50. I’m thinking there’s comfortable ground somewhere in the middle, and the sooner we find it, the sooner we can get This princess to where she needs to be. I’ll let you two figure that out….there are sandwiches left and I am hungry.”

With that, Angela went back to the table and selected another sandwich, smiling at it as if it was the best thing she’d ever seen.

“You ever seen a boat like Destiny?...... I’d guess not,…and neither have the competition. They don’t know what we can do…and that’ll give us…and you… the advantage. That advantage is worth…… 50 a head, cuz we get there before most know we left. We’d give a savvy business man like you an Ace in the hole.” Jon said hotly.

"Oh! You are businessman then?" Badger eyes glowed with impatience and anger, "From what I hear your boat been sitting in a junk heap for near a year! But now it's faster than a courier class? I would love to meet your mechanic 'cause she must be the best this side of the Kessel Run. How 'bout we make it 15 and you can ...."

“Well, I think we’ve heard enough,” Angela spoke coolly and quietly, but just enough to be heard over the discussion, “but our host is clearly dealing with some urgency and we are between jobs at the moment, “ she rose from the table and sauntered to stand between Badger and Jon, but closer to Badger.

“You, dear sir,” she turned to Badger with a slight bow of the head and a touch of the smile she’d shared before,” You want us to take this job….I’d even say you need us to take the job because time is tight and we’re the fastest in the ‘Verse, so you’ve put out a fine feast and did everything you could to make us like you.” She leaned in confidentially and smoothed Badger’s lapel “It worked, by the way. I like you…a lot,” she whispered.

“Whereas, us?” Angela straightened to look at Jon and Tess, but mostly at the Captain. “We have a lean operation that moves fast, and that’s gotta mean something. We are also looking for work, and buildin’ a name for ourselves, so being a business partner of someone 'in the community' has also got to be worth something.”

She stepped back a bit so that she was no longer between Badger and Jon, and gestured with her hands that they should look at each other. “Now, we have an offer of 20 credits a day and a counter-offer of 50. I’m thinking there’s comfortable ground somewhere in the middle, and the sooner we find it, the sooner we can get This princess to where she needs to be. I’ll let you two figure that out….there are sandwiches left and I am hungry.”

With that, Angela went back to the table and selected another sandwich, smiling at it as if it was the best thing she’d ever seen.

Badger smiles broadly, "Oi! I sees what you are doing! Get me going there you did! I can admire that. Make me think you a fool then bring your own Ace in - ah, don't bother denying it." He moves to be beside Angela, stepping by the Captain to do so, "You's the brains here aren't you? Fine. I gives you 35 a head and I'll make sure the cruise liner fills your fuel tanks after the drop. But ..." He leans in slightly, "When you come back - You have dinner with me - just the two of us and no business. Agreed?"

"Oh! You are businessman then?" Badger eyes glowed with impatience and anger, "From what I hear your boat been sitting in a junk heap for near a year! But now it's faster than a courier class? I would love to meet your mechanic 'cause she must be the best this side of the Kessel Run. How 'bout we make it 15 and you can ...."
It was clear Jon had let his emotion get the upper hand. What Jon thought was honesty and sincerity, Badger took as brash.

Then once again that innocent looking girl stepped in …“Well, I think we’ve heard enough,” Angela spoke coolly and quietly, but just enough to be heard over the discussion, “but our host is clearly dealing with some urgency and we are between jobs at the moment, “ she rose from the table and sauntered to stand between Badger and Jon, but closer to Badger.

“You, dear sir,” she turned to Badger with a slight bow of the head and a touch of the smile she’d shared before,” You want us to take this job….I’d even say you need us to take the job because time is tight and we’re the fastest in the ‘Verse, so you’ve put out a fine feast and did everything you could to make us like you.” She leaned in confidentially and smoothed Badger’s lapel “It worked, by the way. I like you…a lot,” she whispered.

“Whereas, us?” Angela straightened to look at Jon and Tess, but mostly at the Captain. “We have a lean operation that moves fast, and that’s gotta mean something. We are also looking for work, and buildin’ a name for ourselves, so being a business partner of someone 'in the community' has also got to be worth something.”

She stepped back a bit so that she was no longer between Badger and Jon, and gestured with her hands that they should look at each other. “Now, we have an offer of 20 credits a day and a counter-offer of 50. I’m thinking there’s comfortable ground somewhere in the middle, and the sooner we find it, the sooner we can get This princess to where she needs to be. I’ll let you two figure that out….there are sandwiches left and I am hungry.”
With that, Angela went back to the table and selected another sandwich, smiling at it as if it was the best thing she’d ever seen.
Jon wasn’t sure if his mouth was hanging open, but as Angela stepped away he saw Badger seem to smile.

"Oi! I sees what you are doing! Get me going there you did! I can admire that. Make me think you a fool then bring your own Ace in - ah, don't bother denying it." He moves to be beside Angela, stepping by the Captain to do so, "You's the brains here aren't you? Fine. I gives you 35 a head and I'll make sure the cruise liner fills your fuel tanks after the drop. But ..." He leans in slightly, "When you come back - You have dinner with me - just the two of us and no business. Agreed?"
Jon thought they’d survived this Ba Wong,(Tyrant) but the kicker registered. Jon didn’t want to make a Bie Woo Lohng,(Commit blunder of great magnitude)but he couldn’t take the deal if it put one of his crew on the spot. He couldn’t put Angela in that position, he knew she could protect herself and that Badger would be at most risk, but to him it wasn’t right.

Holding his emtions and trying to stay calm Jon replied to Badgers, “Lao Buhn, (Big boss)……… your offer of 35 is acceptable, ……….but as for the dinner, that is purely Angela’s choice.” Jon looked to Angela for some clue.

Persephone, Eavesdown Docks, On Board Destiny, 6:15 pm ST
Catie Yueshi stood on the tarmac of the Eavesdown Ship Port and looked at the message that Stephanie had sent her. Look for the black ship that looks like it comes out of a holo-movie. Well there was only only ship in the port that was a glossy black and looked completely different from all the others. In fact, although Catie knew very little about freighters and ships, she had to admit that this Destiny was rather ... sexy in its own way.


I understand what you are going through and I wouldn’t suggest this if it was only for myself. But you need a home that will keep moving and we need someone who understands genetics and prosthetics – certainly more so than I do and you are one of the best. It is almost like it was Destiny that you and I have a mutual need and since it is the name of the ship – well you believe it that sort of things more than I do.

I arranged a ticket and some money to get you here – I still have some friends and a more than a few favours owed. Come see me at Eavesdown Docks on Persephone. I think it will do a world of good.

She approached the ship and the gangplank which was down at the moment. There, waiting her arrival was a smiling Stephanie. She looked better than the last time Catie had seen her, more joy in her eyes and face. But there was a touch of concern and fear still - like the weight of the world still rested on her shoulders.

Angela had walked back to the sandwiches and to all appearances, was focused on selecting the perfect second sandwich, but her attention was really still on the Captain and Badger. It could all go horribly wrong and the Captain would say the word and she’d have to hurt this interesting new person in her life, but for the moment, only the guns were out.

"Oi! I sees what you are doing! Badger smiles broadly. “ Get me going there you did! I can admire that. Make me think you a fool then bring your own Ace in - ah, don't bother denying it." He moves to be beside Angela, stepping by the Captain to do so, "You's the brains here aren't you? Fine. I gives you 35 a head and I'll make sure the cruise liner fills your fuel tanks after the drop. But ..." He leans in slightly, "When you come back - You have dinner with me - just the two of us and no business. Agreed?"
Angela blinked in surprise at the man leaning in almost uncomfortably close. She’d expected to distract this fish by dangling the bait long enough for the Captain to regain his bearings, she didn’t expect to land the fish herself…and it wasn’t her decision to make. She glanced over at the Captain, a mute plea in her eyes.

“Lao Buhn, (Big boss)……… your offer of 35 is acceptable, ……….but as for the dinner, that is purely Angela’s choice,” Jon spoke up, and if Angela wasn’t already half in love with the handsome fellow over his kindness, this pretty much sealed the deal.

Badger looked back inquiringly at Angela, his eyebrow raised and a touch of impatience in his body language. Angela looked at him consideringly, weighing her options, and made her decision.

“It sounds like we have a deal for a job, and that a good’s day’s work all around. I like that you’re making dinner plans – means you expect us back quick enough, and in a mood to still be friendly. You and I though, Mister,” and she gave him an arch look before winking, ”we’ve just begun our acquaintance, and I’m not one to rush to the end. You’ll get your dinner, but fair warning – I’m likely to bankrupt you if you chose someplace fancy, and I’m no sure thing…you’ve sealed no other deal with me yet. “

She tilted her head and her smile was part play, and part challenge. “So, you still interested in that date?”

A string of bad luck. Well, perhaps it was just the nature of things, after all, being a vagabond taking work where she could, Catie knew this was not an unlikelihood. Being unemployed for a longer amount of time than normal didn't mean much. At least, that's all Catie thought it was, until she received the message from Stephanie. It had been a while since they were last in contact, but the timing couldn't have been more perfect. Destiny indeed. There was only the faint hesitation at the back of her mind. Stephanie's wording suggested that it might be a more permanent place for Catie to stay. Yet, there was no way she could turn it down. She also knew Stephanie wouldn't have suggested it if she didn't think it was in her own interests.

My research... Catie had wondered, They're not exactly common things. I wonder, what is it that I could help with?
Between curiosity and a sense of obligation to Stephanie, it was enough to hold her hesitation in check. So she traveled once more...

* * *

Catie had to admit, the Destiny drew her in. There was something about it. Something she couldn't quite put her finger on. Perhaps it was that sort of energy. Names are symbols, but names also have power.

She didn't have long to think about it, however, her baggage trailing behind her as Catie spotted the gangplank, and Stephanie there to greet her. Catie quickly walked up to give Stephanie a friendly hug.

"Feels like it's been a long time." Catie said, "How have things been?" She asked.

[Presuming a return of greeting and invitation inside]

"I probably should drop these off on board before I leave them outside." Catie chuckled, following Stephanie inside the Destiny, and looking around, taking in much of the detail, "I have to admit, I wasn't sure what to expect by the description in your message, but she is a very unique vessel. A curious air."

[Presuming she asks for clarification]

"I'm not exactly sure. Could be my imagination, or could be a feeling that there's more than you greeting me." Catie replied, before shrugging, "Either way, I suppose I should place these somewhere before you bring me up to date."

[Presuming slight surprise at Catie getting to the point so to speak so fast]

"Well, it has been a very long time since I was involved in something related to my research. I guess I kind of missed it." Catie admitted, before looking along the inner corridor, "Was there a room already assigned to me?" She asked.

Persephone, Eavesdown Docks, Badger’s Office, 6:10 pm ST
“I’m sorry but you all seem to be working for a misconception. Now if anyone knew who the Princess was, i’d guess one of the ladies, not you captain. I collect trading card myself but whatever oils your chain. I’m asking you to transport Ms Fairchild her two lackeys and these two. I ain’t asking you to throw them a gorram teaparty! You don’t need special foods or rations or clean sheet or pretty dollies on the seats. She likes the charity work on the rim, so she can handle roughing it for awhile. In fact, her daddy would be mighty appreciative of her living like the other half because as I understand it, she’s been a bit of a prat about the wedding.” Badger sighed dramatically, “You have these two for extra security. Introduce yourself boys.”

The youngest of the two brothers steps forward and offers his hand to the captain, “I’m AJ Simon and that there is my brother Rick. Don’t you be fussing Captain, we can handle things as they come.” The brother offers a winning smile and a handshake but doesn’t comment further. “we can bunk together or swing on hammocks in the bay if necessary.”

Jon nodded as the two stepped forward. “Simon and Simon…sounds like a ..you know …an accounting business.”

Tess’s checks colored brightly. She hadn’t really given the two young men that were standing behind Badger a good look. The younger one, the one who had spoken, certainly was pleasing to the eye. Tess liked how his manner wasn’t nearly as gruff as his employer’s.

But the older one, Rick. His face was had the perfect mixture of handsome and rugged; his eyes lit up like the morning sunrise when he parted his lips in a smile.

Oh merciful heaven. Tess reached up and fiddled with her tooth necklace as she smiled back at the two brothers.

Badger clears his throat noisily, “Right. The drop is late tonight, not tomorrow am. The idea here is to avoid the press getting wind of The Princess leaving, so her father wants her traveling in-cog-neat-toes. No one would suspect a high flaunting princess on a gar.. ship like yours. Get the picture?”
Jon snapped his look to Badger as he the word “gar…” left his lips.

Tess continued to color, but this time it was in anger. Her lips formed a thin line as her Captain became indignant.

“We ain’t no Garbage Scow! …….We take what business we been able get…… You don’t go nowhere if’n you can’t afford to refuel.”


“Listen. You can’t handle the job or your ship is too delicate for five passengers then fine. There an Arrowhead courier in port, I can use them. Don’t want to ‘cause the captain is a wáng bā dàn and I wanted to give you a chance to make a name. Get established, even hobnob with some bigwigs that could make your business. Kinda guy I am, see? But you can walk away, Guǎi mǎ jiǎo!, if you’d like and I will let my people know that you are not quite in my league for jobs. Understand?”

Jc nearly growled,"I can handle the security Captain, I certainly wouldn't want Mr. Badger here to think we can't handle it."

Almost in perfect unison Jon and Tess blert out as if splitting out a spoiled rice,“An.. ARROWHEAD………

Putting his palms to the sides of his forehead,"An ARROWHEAD….you’d put your money into one of those Yi Dwei Da Buen Chuo Roh? (Big stupid pile of stinking meat )…………They’d take twice time to get there, if they don’t break down.”.. Jon spreads out his arms if taking in the whole room. “Look, you’re a man that shows good business sense…..you were the only one to see that Destiny is more than those…..those……” Jon looked at Badger, “We’re the best kept secret in the verse….there ain’t no other boat faster… and there ain’t no crew better….. we need this job, but we’re worth more than 20 a head. You’d pay that….Arrowhead….more than twice that when ya figure how long it’ll take um …even at full burn….and then they’ll most likely be late.”

Tess kept her mouth shut, but her blood continued to boil. She didn’t appreciate the way this man was treating her captain, let alone the rest of the crew and her boat. Her initial response was out of habit; Destiny was the fastest ship that ever did travel the ‘verse. Jon was right; she really was the best kept secret, and this tetchy chwen had no idea.

You ever seen a boat like Destiny?” continued Jon, “ I’d guess not,…and neither have the competition. They don’t know what we can do…and that’ll give us…and you… the advantage. That advantage is worth…… 50 a head, cuz we get there before most know we left. We’d give a savvy business man like you an Ace in the hole.”

"Oh! You are businessman then?" Badger eyes glowed with impatience and anger, "From what I hear your boat been sitting in a junk heap for near a year! But now it's faster than a courier class? I would love to meet your mechanic 'cause she must be the best this side of the Kessel Run. How 'bout we make it 15 and you can ...."

“Well, I think we’ve heard enough,” Angela spoke coolly and quietly, but just enough to be heard over the discussion, “but our host is clearly dealing with some urgency and we are between jobs at the moment, “ she rose from the table and sauntered to stand between Badger and Jon, but closer to Badger.

What the devil? Tess’s demeanor remained calm, but she reached up and began touching the feather affixed in her hair. Wuo duh tian ah, you pick NOW to go all wooly on us, Ang?
She continued to idly touch that feather while she watched Angela play Badger like she was some sort of gorram companion. The pilot held her breath, and prepared for the worst as Angela turned back to the table.

Badger smiles broadly, "Oi! I sees what you are doing! Get me going there you did! I can admire that. Make me think you a fool then bring your own Ace in - ah, don't bother denying it." He moves to be beside Angela, stepping by the Captain to do so, "You's the brains here aren't you? Fine. I gives you 35 a head and I'll make sure the cruise liner fills your fuel tanks after the drop. But ..." He leans in slightly, "When you come back - You have dinner with me - just the two of us and no business. Agreed?"

A sigh passed between Tess’s lips. That could have gone a lot worse.
“Lao Buhn,” Jon said, “your offer of 35 is acceptable, but as for the dinner, that is purely Angela’s choice.” Jon looked to Angela for some clue.

“It sounds like we have a deal for a job, and that a good’s day’s work all around. I like that you’re making dinner plans – means you expect us back quick enough, and in a mood to still be friendly. You and I though, Mister,” and she gave him an arch look before winking, ”we’ve just begun our acquaintance, and I’m not one to rush to the end. You’ll get your dinner, but fair warning – I’m likely to bankrupt you if you chose someplace fancy, and I’m no sure thing…you’ve sealed no other deal with me yet. “

She tilted her head and her smile was part play, and part challenge. “So, you still interested in that date?”

Tess shifted on her feet. She was anxious to get out of here. This cheong bao ho tze huen dahn had crawled right under her skin, and she felt hard pressed not walk over and put that little man in his real place. Again, she regretted that there weren’t more honorable people out in the ‘verse, especially since they had to get into the mix with this kind of ilk to stay flying. Hopefully this job, and the promised future ones, was worth it.

Her eyes wandered back to where Rick Simon stood, and she smiled again.

Well, couldn’t complain about the perks.

“So, you still interested in that date?” Angela asked.

Badger smiles broadly, "Oh I likes you. You got cheek and don't fluster. I am a patient man though. But I'd never ask you to do something you didn't want, so consider that my interest is genuine and a promise I mean no harm. That be a lot more than I ever offered another crew."

Badger turned to the Captain, "We have a deal then. Be at Diviner's Gulch at 2 am. There'a a clearing at the bottom, we will meet you there. Keep the running lights to a min, them press dogs can sniff out a story and we don't want any spectators. Don't be late."

OOC: Diviner's Gulch is a valley off the main roads outside of Eavesdown. Good place to go if you don't want to be seen. Lots of rocks, trees and places to hide.

Badger smiles broadly, "Oi! I sees what you are doing! Get me going there you did! I can admire that. Make me think you a fool then bring your own Ace in - ah, don't bother denying it." He moves to be beside Angela, stepping by the Captain to do so, "You's the brains here aren't you? Fine. I gives you 35 a head and I'll make sure the cruise liner fills your fuel tanks after the drop. But ..." He leans in slightly, "When you come back - You have dinner with me - just the two of us and no business. Agreed?"
JC did not like Badger, the Mob boss reminded him too much of the Master, but he had to admit there was a lot of money to make possibly if this first run went well. However he did not like the idea of Angela having dinner with him with her spilt second changes that could be dangerous not so much for Angela but instead Badger Yet he said nothing knowing from past instances that she could handle herself quite deadly and that was where JC‘s worry’s lay.

However as he looked over the Simons the real question for the Gunfighter was just how good or bad those two were. Too good and that could be a big problem with them thinking themselves superior and result in over confidence. Not good enough and they could turn out to be not sure of themselves, hesitate at the wrong time and get them all killed. Walking over to them he offered his hand attempting to seem friendly.

“JC Kane, nice to be traveling with ya’s. I see you two carry yourselves quite professional, maybe before we start traveling the Black tonight we can do some target shooting and maybe you guys can teach me a few things. Never know what can come in handy in the Black right”

What was that old saying oh yeah, Keep your friends close keep your enemies closer. Get them on a range and see just how good they were.

(OOC: OK from this point just follow till we return to Destiny unless any rp involving JC comes up hopefully I can get them on a range. If so once on the range no matter if better or worse then me I will not shoot my best on purpose to let them think they are better. I will also try best I can to hide the arm.)

Catie had to admit, the Destiny drew her in. There was something about it. Something she couldn't quite put her finger on. Perhaps it was that sort of energy. Names are symbols, but names also have power.

She didn't have long to think about it, however, her baggage trailing behind her as Catie spotted the gangplank, and Stephanie there to greet her. Catie quickly walked up to give Stephanie a friendly hug.

"Feels like it's been a long time." Catie said, "How have things been?" She asked.

"Hard to say. Things are good in general, but not quite as I would like them to be. But so it would be true for anyone I imagine. I am glad you came and accepted my invitation.

"I probably should drop these off on board before I leave them outside." Catie chuckled, following Stephanie inside the Destiny, and looking around, taking in much of the detail, "I have to admit, I wasn't sure what to expect by the description in your message, but she is a very unique vessel. A curious air."

"Really? Jon certainly feels a connection and Grace is almost mentally linked to the ship so perhaps you are right. Wait until you meet our lady in white - that will get you thinking. What exactly are you feeling about her?"

"I'm not exactly sure. Could be my imagination, or could be a feeling that there's more than you greeting me." Catie replied, before shrugging, "Either way, I suppose I should place these somewhere before you bring me up to date."

"No small talk or chit chat catie? Well I have to get used to calling you that, perhaps you really are a new person now?"

"Well, it has been a very long time since I was involved in something related to my research. I guess I kind of missed it." Catie admitted, before looking along the inner corridor, "Was there a room already assigned to me?" She asked.

"No. Not yet. To be honest I haven't told the crew about you because I wasn't you were coming." Stephanie said plainly. "I know things have not been easy for you." She helped Catie bring her bags abroad and then pressed the control panel "Grace! Could you come to the Infirmary? I have someone you should meet. She is a friend of mine."

Stephanie brought Catie to the infirmary and pulled up a chair for both of them. "Grace is a bit different. Amazingly intelligent, gifted with anything mechanical but not the most social if people. She has some issues with paranoia but frankly, it has saved our lives a number of times so although it sounds like crazy conspiracy theatre - don't dismiss her. She can be very loyal if you can become her friend."

The was the sound of the lift and soon a young lady appeared in the doorway of the infirmary. Grace was young, very pretty and had the look of a doctor examining a bug under a glass when she looked at Catie.

"Grace, this is Catie Yueshi. She is a colleague of mine who is an expert on genetics and prosthetic implants. I asked her to join us in order to get more help with JC and Angela. She is a good friend and I trust her Grace, so you can as well."

Stephanie brought Catie to the infirmary and pulled up a chair for both of them. "Grace is a bit different. Amazingly intelligent, gifted with anything mechanical but not the most social if people. She has some issues with paranoia but frankly, it has saved our lives a number of times so although it sounds like crazy conspiracy theatre - don't dismiss her. She can be very loyal if you can become her friend."
Catie nodded, "Can't fault that. I have my own slight tendencies myself, if you remember." She gave a sheepish smile, "It's part of why I usually keep moving."

There was the sound of the lift and soon a young lady appeared in the doorway of the infirmary. Grace was young, very pretty and had the look of a doctor examining a bug under a glass when she looked at Catie.

"Grace, this is Catie Yueshi. She is a colleague of mine who is an expert on genetics and prosthetic implants. I asked her to join us in order to get more help with JC and Angela. She is a good friend and I trust her Grace, so you can as well."
Catie bowed her head in greeting as Grace entered, before looking up and giving a smile, "Other previous occupations include waitress, chef, nurse, janitor, programmer, and tech support aide. All part time, and not all at once of course." She chuckled, "Although tuition certainly tried to get me to at one point." She motioned towards another chair, beckoning Grace to sit if it made her more comfortable.

Catie had to admit that the look that Grace was giving her was a bit intimidating, but it wasn't too different than a check in by senior personnel... Catie felt her face pale slightly, but she took a breath, forcing the thought out of her mind.

F5B2100 Catie thought, bringing up the memory of the layout of a restaurant she worked at once. She looked around, before looking at Stephanie, "Do you happen to have a kettle? Perhaps we could have some tea." She suggested. Might as well try to make everyone comfortable, especially Grace, as best she could anyway.

Persephone, Eavesdown Docks, Badger’s Office, 6:15 pm ST
"We have a deal then. Be at Diviner's Gulch at 2 am. There'a a clearing at the bottom, we will meet you there. Keep the running lights to a min, them press dogs can sniff out a story and we don't want any spectators. Don't be late."

JC walked past the little knot at the table towards the Simon brothers. He extended his hand, “JC Kane, nice to be traveling with ya’s. I see you two carry yourselves quite professional, maybe before we start traveling the Black tonight we can do some target shooting and maybe you guys can teach me a few things. Never know what can come in handy in the Black right”

“You boys have fun,” Tess said. She felt her stomach turn over as she looked at Rick’s easy smile.

((Assume the deal handshake from Jon here))

“Well, Capt’n, shall we? Lotsa preps to make. Good evenin’, sir,” she nodded her head at Badger. The pilot reached out and lightly touched Angela’s arm. Her eyebrows raised and she motioned towards the exit.

Persephone, Eavesdown Docks, Outside Badger’s Office towards Destiny, 6:20 pm ST
Tess waited until they were well out of earshot of Badger’s Office before letting out a long sigh, “Let’s not do that again, Capt’n” They wove in and out of hawkers still selling their wares into the evening, “Remember Stevenson? I sweared that I was lookin’ at him reincarnate. One more word again’st our girl ‘n crew, and I vowed I were gonna pop him one, no matter who he were. That reminds me,” she pulled back the sleeve of her jacket, exposing her multiband.

"Destiny! This is Tess. Ya'll awake in there?"

The multiband crackled slightly, and Grace’s voice chirped out of it, "Hey, Quing Ting, we are very awake and very bored. How goes the mission?"

"Gracie! Jin joh bu chi chi fah joh, woman! You were right,” Tess gritted her teeth and kept her voice down, “That man were every bit as a trumped up strutting lao chien as I ever did see. I am every bit suprised that da shiong la se la ch'wohn tian gave us the gorram job!"

"Okay, first things first, what the heck happened? What did he do to get you all riled up?"

"It's a long, wu toh wu now ugly. Suffice it to say, Mr. Kai Tze did give us the runaround, and he did call Destiny a garbage scow, and he did throw his lei sh'un da yui dian shoo reputation around like it was a gorram crown!

Ang came to the rescue. He took a shine to her, in which we may have to be making some excuses later. I'll let her tell that story.”

She drew breath, her finger still pushing down the comm. button. Tess’s dark eyes took in Angela walking beside her, and her brain reeled momentarily at the enigma that was their shipmate.

“Which reminds me,” she continued into the multiband, “Be sure to be addin' "Companion training" to the list of skills that Ang may or may not be learn'ed in."

“Don’t be forgittin’ to be addin’ this here little date of ya’lls into yer journal, Ang,” she said to Angela after letting go of the comm. button, “Star it, highlight it, sneeze on it, whatever to be rememberin’ yer appointment with our new employer.”

"Angela did what?,” Grace’s voice exclaimed, “Ugh, this is the last time I go to that one for job outings... Wait, Badger liked Angela!? Man she likes catching us off guard"

"Damn right she does,” Tess dodged around a little Chinese man trying to push painted umbrellas into her arms, “Kaida, we're leavin' this rock tonight. We'll be runnin' hot, but not full burn the whole way, so work whatever magic over on our girl before we head out. Could ya'll tell Steph to meet me in our guest rooms? Might'n be wantin' to sweep out the dust bunnies before we git our passengers."

"Will do, Quing Ting. See you soon."

"Sheh sheh. Be there in ten."

Badger turned to the Captain, "We have a deal then. Be at Diviner's Gulch at 2 am. There'a a clearing at the bottom, we will meet you there. Keep the running lights to a min, them press dogs can sniff out a story and we don't want any spectators. Don't be late."
Before Jon could answer Tess piped in, “Well, Capt’n, shall we? Lotsa preps to make. Good evenin’, sir,” she nodded her head at Badger.
“We’re nearly ready but there be got one last item.. “ Jon turned smiling to Badger, “ I know that Miss Angela would be better at ask’n this but we could use half the fare now ..we need ta pay off our docking fee…. top off ….and we sure need to pick up some provisions on our way back to Destiny…..you can have your men pay us the last half when we get Miss Lilianna to her wedding.”

Jon waited, they really needed some money.

(Assuming Badger pays us after a bit of verbal grief.)

Jon accepted the payment, “Sheh Sheh.”
With that Jon motioned everyone toward the door.