Lilianna smiles briefly but it quickly disappears. "I'd really like a tour of your ship sir. I have never been on a firefly before."

Jon winced when he heard her call Destiny a firefly, but if she was going to give them meat he might even let her call it an Arrowhead.

“Catie, will you please join us as we escort Miss Fairchild’s party through the ship? JC.. check with Grace and see if she might find a simple deck layout for Mr. Liang.“

Just then over the ship’s PA Grace’s voice crackled, “This ain’t a firefly, Princess! This is a Whitefire!“
Jon winced again turning to Seth, “ Our ship’s Engineer rebuilt most of Destiny by herself and she’s a bit protective. Perhaps not unlike someone calling Hermes Brand Luggage suitcases.” Jon smiled and continued, “ Whitefire ships are rare and we are the fastest freighter in the verse, but we may not have a published deck plan, but we will see what we can find.”

Jon started moving through the cargo bay, “If you’ll follow me I’ll show you the ship.”

Lilianna smiles ruefully back at Catie and wrinkles her nose, “It is very ... quaint. I suppose one gets used to the smell?”

Asante laughs heartily, “Oh Princess, don’t worry. It is just a few days and then all will roses and pageantry.”
Catie tilted her head slightly, in almost a pretense of not knowing what Lilianna was talking about, but replied dutifully, "Please be reassured in that the scent does not extend beyond the cargo bay. I took the liberty of ensuring that."

***

Lilianna smiles briefly but it quickly disappears. "I'd really like a tour of your ship sir. I have never been on a firefly before."

“Catie, will you please join us as we escort Miss Fairchild’s party through the ship?"
Catie nodded in reply, "Of course."

Yet even as they got prepared to give the tour, there was an interruption by the way of Grace.

“This ain’t a firefly, Princess! This is a Whitefire!“
Catie had to suppress a giggle. She could recognize that feeling.

"Why isn't there ever just a big red button?"

"Sir, as I've tried to explain to you numerous times before, this is a prosthetic replacement for mechanical function. Additional enhancements such as-"

"Look, are these guns or not?"

"These are arms, sir. The technical specifications indicate arms. Not cannons, not guns, arms."
Not the same scenario, but not too different either, Catie suspected.

Presuming the bodyguard takes position at the rear with his height advantage, Catie takes position beside Lilianna, opposite Asante, during the tour. She doesn't stand so close as to be invasive, but she is there similar to a waitress guiding a diner to their table.

She subtly gave reassuring nods to Jon as he gave the tour, recognizing by his body language that he was uncomfortable with it. When they reached the stairway to the guest quarters, Catie spoke up as well.

"I've personally seen to the preparations of your rooms." Catie added, doing her part as she can to 'see to Lilianna's ease and comfort'. "If there are any amendments you may like in regards to them, please let me know and I will find out if they can be accommodated."

OOC: I spread out the conversation over the course of the new so to make things flow)

Angela stopped her musing over the princess when she realized that Jon and the bodyguard were at an impasse over the luggage. She tugged her hat brim down a little more over her face and stomped down the ramp sturdily.

“No worries, Cap’n, “she assured Jon,” I’m on it. We’ll get this stowed away inna cargo bay in no time. Uh, Miss? One these needed in your room? Won’t all fit but you prolly have yer essentials in one of ‘em.”

Lilianna turns to Angela and stares for a bit, as if unsure what to say for a moment. She looks ready to cry for a moment and then says, "Oh! Yes. The brown bag will do for now. I will be able to come down and get items another later I assume?"

(Assuming a yes)

"Then that will be fine. Thank you so much for asking. That was kind of you."

As the last of the luggage was brought into the cargo bay, Angela thanked anyone who helped, before turning wide-eyed to Seth and the Simons. “Now, I’m guessin’ you all have lockboxes for yer weapons, or do you need to use one of ours? Not wanting any discharges during flight, an’ all that. Bad for pressurization.”

The brothers looked at each other and did that talking without speaking thing again. Then AJ, the oldest says, "Yeah. " " puts down one bag and opens it. "There is a shotgun, pump, and a saw off double barrels, plus my service revolver and my rifle. All have the locks on the triggers, the rifle is disassembled and locked in the soft case." He points as he does and then looks at his brother who looks sheepish.

Rick drops his bag, which clatters. " Umm. Shotgun. Pistol. What he said although without trigger locks and the pistol is loaded. But the safety is on. I think. Can I get a receipt please?"

AJ rolled his eyes.

Asante offered her bag up but said plainly, "I am sorry but unless you consider a pair of stiletto heels and a fully stocked makeup kit dangerous - I'm rather unarmed."

Seth makes no move to disarm. He continues on with looking over the cargo bay until he realizes that everyone is looking at him. he bows respectful before saying "I cannot allow to be disarmed. I am entrusted with Miss Fairchild's protection. While I appreciate the assistance of the Captain and his crew, it is my honour to protect her I I will not let that fall to another man. I assure you that I will not discharge my weapon without dire need and that it is a pulse plasma gun so it can not harm your ship while on the lesser setting. I do hope this is understood and acceptable as without your consent, I will have to call my employer and tell him this deal and transport is not to continue."

(assuming a "what are you expecting? or Why so worried?")

Seth looks perplexed and then annoyed, "I am sorry. I thought you were informed. There have been threats on Miss Fairchild's life. Enemies of Mr. Steele and the Baron have sworn that they will abduct her before the wedding. That is why we are doing this late night pick up. Were you not informed of this?"

(Assuming a No and a lot of swearing)

Seth shrugs slightly and continues, "Oh. Well that is the situation. We can continue and cease this arrangement now but I don't your employer or mine would be happy with that. You no doubt capable men, with some background with this kind of work - hence the need for a public relations man on a transport. "

There was silence for a moment as everyone looked to Jon. An awkward silence of a second or two only as Jon could ponder the ramifications of cancelling or going forward. Then Lilianna spoke up in the silence, as if to break the ice.

"I'd really like a tour of your ship sir. I have never been on a firefly before."

The PA crackled to life overhead, “This ain’t a firefly, Princess! This is a Whitefire!“
Lilianna looked up and then to the captain, "Oh. I am sorry. I didn't know. I didn't mean to offend."

Jon winced again turning to Seth, “ Our ship’s Engineer rebuilt most of Destiny by herself and she’s a bit protective. Perhaps not unlike someone calling Hermes Brand Luggage suitcases.” Jon smiled and continued, “ Whitefire ships are rare and we are the fastest freighter in the verse, but we may not have a published deck plan, but we will see what we can find.”

Seth smiled for a brief moment - just a moment and then returned his attention to the matter at hand, "It is good to have pride in one's workmanship. It shows strength of character and commitment. Your crew speak well of you by their actions. Shall we continue on the journey Captain?"

(I am going to assume a yes or else this voyage just got really short. The tour will take place as the ship is taking off and making ready to leave atmo)

“Catie, will you please join us as we escort Miss Fairchild’s party through the ship? JC.. check with Grace and see if she might find a simple deck layout for Mr. Liang.“ Jon started moving through the cargo bay, “If you’ll follow me I’ll show you the ship.”

Catie takes position beside Lilianna, opposite Asante, during the tour. She doesn't stand so close as to be invasive, but she is there similar to a waitress guiding a diner to their table.

She subtly gave reassuring nods to Jon as he gave the tour, recognizing by his body language that he was uncomfortable with it. When they reached the stairway to the guest quarters, Catie spoke up as well.

"I've personally seen to the preparations of your rooms." Catie added,. "If there are any amendments you may like in regards to them, please let me know and I will find out if they can be accommodated."

"Oh, thank you, that is most kind." She says but seems very distracted and somewhat lost. She keeps looking to her bodyguard for direction.


Down in the infirmary, Stephanie was flipping channels on the cortex entertainment channels. She found what she thought she was looking for as she did. She had to tell Jon. She realized as she did that she had been foolish in her fears with Jon and her doubts and she really needed to apologize for how she had behaved before. So with sense of need and urgency, she left to find the captain.


Jon started the tour with the cargo area and Medical Bay. Taking the lift to the middle deck. As they emerged he point left down the hall“ The galley is at the end of this gangway. The crew quarters are also here. Mr. Simon and Mr. Simon, your room will be up there by the galley.” Turning slightly,” The escape pod are there, " pointing up across the hall, "and Engineering is down this other way. Your quarters Miss Fairchild are up this private stairs to our two guest rooms…… Mr. Liang, we have partitioned the one room so you can stay there with Miss Fairchild to ensure her safety. Miss Chang you will be in the room next to Miss Fairchild.” Jon really wasn’t use to this tour guide routine but it had to be done. He knew the Princess would naturally expect the Captain of the ship to personally attend to her for a while and…well she did give them STEAKS.” Standing in the hall he gestured up, “ The upper deck is restricted to crew only… for your safety,…as is Engineering.”

The vibrations of the ship leaving Atmo and entering the Black stop and the gentle humm of the engines signal that Tess has the ship under way.

The Simons, still looking rather glum, take off to their quarters as soon as they are shown to them. Other than Rick asking when breakfast would be, they seem happy to be heading to bed.

Seth seemed very satisfied with the arrangement, "This works well. thank you Captain. If you could have the layout plans brought me as soon as possible, I'd appreciate it."

Lilianna however is not thrilled with the accommodations and the shared room with a barrier between. She doesn't say anything but her face is a mask of rage, sadness and loathing. She pleads fatigue and asks to be left in her room. Before you leave though, she grasps Catie but the hands and says, "Thank you for your kindness. I appreciate all the help you have given me in this matter."

As Asante heads to her room, she asks Jon formally, "Captain, I have a few matters that I must speak to you of some urgency. Could I have a few moments with you alone?" she asks as she enters her quarters and tossed her bag upon the bed.

Angela continued to amaze Jon as she so naturally asked the guests to give up their weapons. “Now, I’m guessin’ you all have lockboxes for yer weapons, or do you need to use one of ours? Not wanting any discharges during flight, an’ all that. Bad for pressurization.”
The Simons surprising obliged, present a rather hefty arsenal.

Even the wedding offered up what she had, When group looked to the bodyguard,Seth makes no move to disarm. He continues on with looking over the cargo bay until he realizes that everyone is looking at him. he bows respectful before saying "I cannot allow to be disarmed. I am entrusted with Miss Fairchild's protection. While I appreciate the assistance of the Captain and his crew, it is my honour to protect her I I will not let that fall to another man. I assure you that I will not discharge my weapon without dire need and that it is a pulse plasma gun so it can not harm your ship while on the lesser setting. I do hope this is understood and acceptable as without your consent, I will have to call my employer and tell him this deal and transport is not to continue."
Jon wrinkled his brow a bit, “I’m sure that few photographers won’t warrant you needing to stay so armed.”

The bodyguard took a bit of a more defensive stance, "I am sorry. I thought you were informed. There have been threats on Miss Fairchild's life. Enemies of Mr. Steele and the Baron have sworn that they will abduct her before the wedding. That is why we are doing this late night pick up. Were you not informed of this?"
” How W’rin Bu Lai, Whai W’rin Bu Jwo,( Things never go smooth)….no our Wu Toh Wu
(confused) employer only said that Miss Fairchild was being hounded by the news people and so we needed to slip out quiet like.” Jon shot a glare to the Simons, “He even said that these gentlemen were just coming along for other business reasons aboard the wedding boat.”

Seth shrugs slightly and continues, "Oh. Well that is the situation. We can cease this arrangement now but I don’t believe your employer or mine would be happy with that. You are no doubt capable men, with some background with this kind of work - hence the need for a public relations man on a transport. "
Jon smiled at JC,” Well cargo needs to be protected, especially the further out you go to deliver it.”

There was silence for a moment as everyone looked to Jon. An awkward silence of a second or two only as Jon could ponder the ramifications of cancelling or going forward. Then Lilianna spoke up in the silence, as if to break the ice.

"I'd really like a tour of your ship sir. I have never been on a firefly before."

The PA crackled to life overhead, “This ain’t a firefly, Princess! This is a Whitefire!“
Lilianna looked up and then to the captain, "Oh. I am sorry. I didn't know. I didn't mean to offend."

Jon winced again turning to Seth, “ Our ship’s Engineer rebuilt most of Destiny by herself and she’s a bit protective. Perhaps not unlike someone calling Hermes Brand Luggage suitcases.” Jon smiled and continued, “ Whitefire ships are rare and we are the fastest freighter in the verse, but we may not have a published deck plan, but we will see what we can find.”

Seth smiled for a brief moment - just a moment and then returned his attention to the matter at hand, "It is good to have pride in one's workmanship. It shows strength of character and commitment. Your crew speak well of you by their actions. Shall we continue on the journey Captain?"

Jon started moving through the cargo bay, “If you’ll follow me I’ll show you the ship.”

“Catie, will you please join us as we escort Miss Fairchild’s party through the ship? JC.. check with Grace and see if she might find a simple deck layout for Mr. Liang.“ Jon started moving through the cargo bay, “If you’ll follow me I’ll show you the ship.”

Catie takes position beside Lilianna, opposite Asante, during the tour. She doesn't stand so close as to be invasive, but she is there similar to a waitress guiding a diner to their table.

She subtly gave reassuring nods to Jon as he gave the tour, recognizing by his body language that he was uncomfortable with it. When they reached the stairway to the guest quarters, Catie spoke up as well.


Jon started the tour with the cargo area and Medical Bay. Taking the lift to the middle deck. As they emerged he point left down the hall“ The galley is at the end of this gangway. The crew quarters are also here. Mr. Simon and Mr. Simon, your room will be up there by the galley.” Turning slightly,” The escape pod are there, " pointing up across the hall, "and Engineering is down this other way.”

The vibrations of the ship leaving Atmo and entering the Black stop and the gentle humm of the engines signal that Tess has the ship under way.

The Simons, still looking rather glum, take off to their quarters as soon as they are shown to them. Other than Rick asking when breakfast would be, they seem happy to be heading to bed.

“Your quarters, Miss Fairchild, are up this private stairs to our two guest rooms…… Mr. Liang, we have partitioned the one room so you can stay there with Miss Fairchild to ensure her safety. Miss Chang you will be in the room next to Miss Fairchild.” Jon really wasn’t use to this tour guide routine but it had to be done. He knew the Princess would naturally expect the Captain of the ship to personally attend to her for a while and…well she did give them STEAKS.” Standing in the hall he gestured up, “ The upper deck is restricted to crew only… for your safety,…as is Engineering.”

Jon then lead the guests and Catie up the stairs to the cabins.


"I've personally seen to the preparations of your rooms." Catie added,. "If there are any amendments you may like in regards to them, please let me know and I will find out if they can be accommodated."

"Oh, thank you, that is most kind." She says but seems very distracted and somewhat lost. She keeps looking to her bodyguard for direction.


Seth seemed very satisfied with the arrangement, "This works well. thank you Captain. If you could have the layout plans brought me as soon as possible, I'd appreciate it."

Lilianna however is not thrilled with the accommodations and the shared room with a barrier between. She doesn't say anything but her face is a mask of rage, sadness and loathing. She pleads fatigue and asks to be left in her room. Before you leave though, she grasps Catie but the hands and says, "Thank you for your kindness. I appreciate all the help you have given me in this matter."

As Asante heads to her room, she asks Jon formally, "Captain, I have a few matters that I must speak to you of some urgency. Could I have a few moments with you alone?" she asks as she enters her quarters and tossed her bag upon the bed.

Jon really needed to get to bridge to inform Tess and Grace of new security information, but he could see the wedding planner had deep concern on her face. He nodded to Catie to stay with Miss Fairchild and then he followed Asante into her cabin. “ Can we be brief, I really need to get to the bridge.”

After Lilliana excused herself, Catie briefly had a troubled expression on her face. The look only lasted an instant, however, before she masked it once more, regaining her composure as self proclaimed Destiny waitress.

It wouldn't be until later, when she was actually alone in her quarters, while searching through her bags to see if she had packed her tea set and serving tray, that she would see for herself what had happened. Naturally, once she saw, she could not un-see.

"Aiya." Catie muttered, pocketing the piece of correspondance where she knew it would be safest. Clearly there was a lot more going on than they had anticipated, less to do with the outside, and more to do with things on the inside.

Now, if she took her orders literally, Catie could go ahead and get more information, as it would be part of ensuring Liliana's potential welfare and comfort. But this was not a situation where things were so clearly cut out. The deal was clearly shadier than any of them were used to, and so they had to tread lightly.

Still, it wouldn't do to draw attention to it at this point. There was a severe shortage of information. Now, Catie could conjecture, that was part of her original occupation as a scientist after all, but there is a significant failing when founding plans only on conjecture.

Under the guise of doing her job, Catie left the room she was in to go to the galley, picking up a serving tray and preparing a light chamomile tea using her tea set. Perhaps this would help with Liliana's anticipation, allowing her to convene more effectively. With that done, she heads upward to the guest room where she expected Liliana to still be, her small teapot and two cups expertly balanced on her tray. If luck was on her side, perhaps there would be another tip. If one thing was certain, none of her companions were allies in Liliana's eyes.

Asante walked into the room and put her bag down on the floor by the bed. She then reached up to her hair and started pulling out the pins in her hair, letting it all come down slowly as she talked.

“Captain. Let me get straight to the point then. I am not much of a person for flirting or being coy. I find things work a whole lot better when people are open and honest with each other, and I want to be open and honest with you.”

Her hair now sultrily down around her shoulder, she comes very close to the Captain, looking up into his eyes as she fiddles with the buttons of her jacket, the smell of her perfume filling Jon’s senses, “We have five days to go before we reach the other ship and I would like to spread as much time with you, here in this room, writhing in as much pleasure as we can give each other. I am not looking for a relationship, just sex and lots of it until we reach port.” She removes her jacket and tosses it aside, revealing a see through chamois underneath and a whole lot of promise.

She moves to kiss Jon.

As Asante heads to her room, she asks Jon formally, "Captain, I have a few matters that I must speak to you of some urgency. Could I have a few moments with you alone?"
Jon really needed to get to bridge to inform Tess and Grace of new security information, but he could see the wedding planner had deep concern on her face. He nodded to Catie to stay with Miss Fairchild and then he followed Asante into her cabin. “ Can we be brief, I really need to get to the bridge.”

Jon followed Miss Chang and as she stepped from the passage into the room Jon saw a transformation. The square shouldered stance and businesswomen walk became a smooth smoldering sway. Her movements graceful and purposeful. The simple act of place one foot in front of the other added a sensuous roll to her hips and gate. A shifting back of her shoulders add an accent to her breasts as they rose and fell in rhythm to her metered breathing. She lowered her bag to the floor and slight bend of her pulled the cloth of short shirt up and tight, molding to the shape of her thigh exposing a glimpse of the soft smooth flesh of her round bottom. Her long dark hair fell in gliding flow over her shoulders as she removed the pins securing them in place.

“Captain. Let me get straight to the point then. I am not much of a person for flirting or being coy. I find things work a whole lot better when people are open and honest with each other, and I want to be open and honest with you.”
Crossing room she comes very close, looking up into his eyes he can nearly see the smoke as her dark eyes smoldered. She removes her jacket and tosses it aside, revealing a see through chamois underneath, her arousal being evident by the firm projections in the sheer cloth. Her perfume filling Jon’s senses as she spoke, “We have five days to go before we reach the other ship and I would like to spread much of that time with you…, here…. in this room….., writhing in as much pleasure as we can give each other. ……I am not looking for a relationship, just sex and lots of it until we reach port.”She steps in, lifting her hands toward Jon’s face and tilting her head. Her luscious moist lips parting slightly as she moves to kiss Jon.

Jon had expected to hear more about security issues…assassins…bounty hunters…kidnappers and other concerns from Miss Fairchild’s companion. When he had seen the sway of Asante’s hips a small alarm went off in his head.. this wasn’t going to be a security talk. Then when she said, “I am not much of a person for flirting or being coy” he was about to interrupt her. But that was when she turned dropping her jacket and exposing herself to him. He stunned by her beauty. The words of her proposition roll over him as he found it impossible to remove his eyes from her. Then as she leaned in to him he caught her wrists and stepped back. “Miss Chang… I… I….I have a firm rule that my crew cannot fraternize with the passenger…. And to be honest..I am not available to spend the time with you.“

He quickly turned and grabbed for the door handle. “But …if you are looking for someone to help you pass the time perhaps that fellow AJ could fill the bill.” Not waiting for a reply he nearly run from the room into the passage “Rung Tse Fwo Tzoo Bao Yo Wuo Muhn” (Merciful Buddha protect us) he breathed as he closed the door behind him.

In the cargo bay, Liliana seems unsure of how to respond, then finally tells Angela she wants the brown case.

“I will be able to come down and get items later, I assume?”

“Oh yes, Miss, of course. Just let me know so I can move things around to get at whatever you want. I stow things away safe and sturdy, and like to be the one to re-arrange ‘em again,” Angela smiled as reassuringly as possible. Part of her wanted to hold the girl and tell her everything would be ok, but since she didn’t know that for certain, she kept her tongue.

Next, the two Simon brothers shared a glance, then AJ set down a bag and showed Angela the contents.

There is a shotgun, pump, and a saw off double barrels, plus my service revolver and my rifle. All have the locks on the triggers, the rifle is disassembled and locked in the soft case." Angela leaned over to peer into the case, nodding with satisfaction.

Rick, on the other hand, looked sheepish as he dumped his bag with a clatter. " Umm. Shotgun. Pistol. What he said although without trigger locks and the pistol is loaded. But the safety is on. I think. Can I get a receipt please?"

Angela winced at the clatter, her hands reflexively clenching as if knuckles were being rapped. She dropped to her haunches, throwing Rick a disgusted look.

“A receipt? Lucky you get your toys back, iffen you don’t know how to care for them…hunh! Born inna barn?”

Angela carefully removed each item, expertly triggering the safety while simultaneously removing ammo cartridges. She handled the weapons with the confidence and ease of long practice, laying each one down neatly with ammo lined up alongside. Her inventory completed, she carefully re-packed the bag, her lips pursed disapprovingly.

Asante watched with apparent amusement before offering her own bag. "I am sorry but unless you consider a pair of stiletto heels and a fully stocked makeup kit dangerous - I'm rather unarmed."

Angela smiled at the joke, her eyes briefly unfocussed as she thought about the heels, blinking back almost immediately.

“Oh miss, I can think of three ways to kill a man with those heels, but you’re fine – they’re no threat to the ship, and that’s all I’m after.”

Seth was another story. He let everyone else offer up their weapons before refusing to disarm. "I cannot allow to be disarmed. I am entrusted with Miss Fairchild's protection. While I appreciate the assistance of the Captain and his crew, it is my honour to protect her I I will not let that fall to another man. I assure you that I will not discharge my weapon without dire need and that it is a pulse plasma gun so it can not harm your ship while on the lesser setting. I do hope this is understood and acceptable as without your consent, I will have to call my employer and tell him this deal and transport is not to continue."

Angela restrained herself from snorting, but he was three times her size, so she wasn’t about to take him on over a gun. Instead, she looked sidelong at the Captain, who was distracted by the real reason for the client’s subterfuge.
Clever boy, Seth…gonna keep my eye on you. Good thing the looking’s easy on the eyes
Angela busied herself with gathering up the two bags of Smith weapons, and let the Captain and Catie take the passengers on their tour. She made her way to JC’s bunk, where she was pretty certain he’d have a weapons locker. With a wink and a wave, she headed back to the cargo bay, where she re-sorted the luggage, handling each without the grav-assist to understand its true mass, then moving it so that the mass was evenly distributed around the cargo bay, with clear paths around each pile. (OOC: she’ll make a note of items that seem lighter or heavier than they should be, and will consider the latch/lock carefully…maybe she knows how to open them inconspicuously? )

She’s cheerfully working away, the effort raising a light sheen of sweat and keeping sleep away, when Stephanie comes looking for Jon. Angela paused, wiping her brow with her forearm, and still managed to smear dirt across her face.

“They were giving our passengers the grand tour,” Angela smiled at Dr. Steph,’ though that was a while ago...they’d be at the passenger rooms by now…try there!”

Jon had expected to hear more about security issues…assassins…bounty hunters…kidnappers and other concerns from Miss Fairchild’s companion. When he had seen the sway of Asante’s hips a small alarm went off in his head.. this wasn’t going to be a security talk. Then when she said, “I am not much of a person for flirting or being coy” he was about to interrupt her. But that was when she turned dropping her jacket and exposing herself to him. He stunned by her beauty. The words of her proposition roll over him as he found it impossible to remove his eyes from her. Then as she leaned in to him he caught her wrists and stepped back. “Miss Chang… I… I….I have a firm rule that my crew cannot fraternize with the passenger…. And to be honest..I am not available to spend the time with you.“

He quickly turned. “But …if you are looking for someone to help you pass the time perhaps that fellow AJ could fill the bill.” and found himself face to face with Stephanie who had just entered the room. She had her arms crossed under her chest and had an expression of mixed shock and disapproval.

(Assuming some stammering and stuttering)

Asante was shocked at the Captain's refusal and more than a bit embarrassed to have another woman walk in on them. She hotly exclaimed, "You have your mother on board? that is really strange. You own a ship but live with your mother."

Stephanie's look turned icy and dangerous and suddenly Jon wished he was anywhere but on this ship, in this room. "Cover yourself dear. You'll find that most men prefer their gifts wrapped."

Asante grabbed her jacket and swore under her breathe as she threw it on.

"I am Dr. Stephanie Young. Tell me, was hiring a double to masquerade as Lilianna your idea?"

"What?"

"The double. There is a press gallery following Lilianna right now as she makes her way to the yacht for her journey to the cruise liner."

"Oh... That would be the Baron's idea. Not mine. With the threat of kidnapping and such he decide to take rather elaborate precautions. Not a good double either, she is too old, voice is all wrong and she is about three cup sizes bigger."

"Ahh. Well they are saying she has a cold. As to the cup size, no one has noticed but prehaps they were too occupied with yours."

Asante grit her teeth and looked ready to fly at Stephanie but the doctor turned and grabbed Jon by the arm. "Well that is all I needed to know. We will leave you now in your pursuit of a bed warmer."

Stephanie did not say anything until she was out of the room and down the stairs. She then turned to Jon, "Firm rule? You are not available?"

(Some explanation)

"It is okay Jon, I saw you put her off. Well I have to say you handled that well. but what is this about Kidnapping? What are we into now Jon?"


*Meanwhile*

Catie moved to her quarters before she dared look at the now that Lilianna has pressed into her hand. She read it a few times, even though it was a short note and then said aloud, "Aiya."

She moved to the kitchen and started to fumble with a serving tray while making a plan in her head to make tea when she heard a noise. It was sorta like a venting oof gas or air. At the sound she turned around.

There, in the galley was a white figure of a woman wearing a formal dress. She wasn't very clear, more like a ghost than a person. A woman in white that seemed to be looking at Catie with a look of concern and care. Then the figure reached out her hand as if to touch Catie and then the figure disappeared like so much gossamer in the wind.

As JC stood quietly and watched the proceedings he was about to ask for everyone's weapons but Angela beat him too it.

"Now, I'm guessing you all have lockboxes for yer weapons, or do you need to use one of ours? Not wanting any discharges during flight, an all that. Bad for pressurization.

Disarming the Simons was no problem, they seemed so eager to give up their weapons JC had to try hard to keep from laughing. He was surprised at how successful he was at doing so. Then it came to the "package" as she handed over her bag.

"I am sorry but unless you consider a pair of stiletto heels and a fully stocked makeup kit dangerous - I'm rather unarmed."

Well JC had not survived as long as he had in the war and the Tongs, by not knowing a thing or two on how to kill without a gun. Stepping forward he politely asked for the bag even though Angela had started to ok it.

"No offense intended Angela, Miss Fairchild, but my job is security of those on the ship not just the ship itself and like Angela I have seen men killed with less." Holding out his hand for the bag he quickly went through it. He started by checking the heels if removable, type of material made of and the sharpness of the them. He then moved to the Lady's make-up kit checking the spray bottles and the rest for anything out of the ordinary. (Assuming finding nothing) Handing the bag back he smiled tipped his head and moved his attention to Seth as the bodyguard was refusing to give up his weapon.

"I cannot allow to be disarmed. I am entrusted with Miss Fairchild's protection. While I appreciate the assistance of the Captain and his crew, it is my honor to protect her. I will not let that fall to another man. I assure you that I will not discharge my weapon without dire need and that it is a pulse plasma gun so it can not harm your ship while on the lesser setting. I do hope this is understood and acceptable as without your consent, I will have to call my employer and tell him this deal and transport is not to continue."

Giving Seth a hard look JC got the feeling something unsaid was going on here. His inner voice was confirmed as Seth quickly continued.

"I am sorry. I thought you were informed. There have been threats on Miss Fairchild's life. Enemies of Mr. Steele and the Baron have sworn that they will abduct her before the wedding. That is why we are doing this late night pick up. Were you not informed of this? No?. Well that is the situation. We can continue and cease this arrangement now but I don't think your employer or mine would be happy with that. You are no doubt capable men, with some background with this kind of work - hence the need for a public relations man on a transport."

Looking at the bodyguard and the earnest way Seth made his case. JC decided to take a chance. After all if he had been Fairchild's bodyguard he would have been just as adamant.

"Normally no one other then crew carries a weapon on board her but seeing as I understand your position I'll make exception to it this one time. I ask you only to swear a *yanmianlin to myself and to the crew this ship that you will only use it as you say in defense of Miss Fairchild." (assuming he does)
Another nod and a proper bow to seal the deal, JC once more moved to stand watching the rest of the loading......

(Once underway he'll do what he normally does and keep an eye on things.)
*yanmianlin = Promise of Face = aka if Seth breaks this promise he will lose a lot of it and that will hurt him in the long term just as much as if he lets Fairchild die.

After J.C had taken the map, Grace was left to deal with the after effects of too much caffeine and sugar combined: way too much energy. The mechanic was feeling way too hyper to sleep but almost everyone else would be sleeping soon. Grace was pretty sure no one would appreciate her waking them up but she really did not want to spend the whole night in her room waiting for sleep to finally hit her.

Mostly trying to kill time, Grace quickly searched up the body guard and the wedding planner on the cortex, muttering to herself, “I’ll wait an hour or two, do some research and then go x-ray the luggage to see what they might be hiding.”

Grace glanced at the clock before once again settling back on her bed. The guest should be asleep in a hour, in which case she should auto-lock those rooms. That way no one would walk in while she was x-raying the luggage. Now all she had to hope was that nothing urgent was going to happen until then.

Having rebuffed the wedding planner Jon quickly turned to leave. “But …if you are looking for someone to help you pass the time perhaps that fellow AJ could fill the bill.” and found himself face to face with Stephanie who had just entered the room. She had her arms crossed under her chest and had an expression of mixed shock and disapproval.

Jon gasped slightly as he had to stop his retreat so as not to bowl over the good Doctor. “Stephanie…I… umm..ahh…. this is Miss Fairchild’s assistant.. Miss Chang.” Jon wasn’t sure if he should relieved to be saved or afraid. “You were looking for me ?, he croaked.
Asante was shocked at the Captain's refusal and more than a bit embarrassed to have another woman walk in on them. She hotly exclaimed, "You have your mother on board? that is really strange. You own a ship but live with your mother.",
Jon winced as he realized he was standing between the two women.

Stephanie's look turned icy and dangerous and suddenly Jon wished he was anywhere but on this ship, ……in this room. "Cover yourself dear. You'll find that most men prefer their gifts wrapped."

Asante grabbed her jacket and swore under her breathe as she threw it on.

"I am Dr. Stephanie Young. Tell me, was hiring a double to masquerade as Lilianna your idea?"

"What?"

"The double. There is a press gallery following Lilianna right now as she makes her way to the yacht for her journey to the cruise liner."

"Oh... That would be the Baron's idea. Not mine. With the threat of kidnapping and such he decide to take rather elaborate precautions. Not a good double either, she is too old, voice is all wrong and she is about three cup sizes bigger."

"Ahh. Well they are saying she has a cold. As to the cup size, no one has noticed but prehaps they were too occupied with yours." Jon coughed as he held back a laugh,

Asante grit her teeth and looked ready to fly at Stephanie but the doctor turned and grabbed Jon by the arm. "Well that is all I needed to know. We will leave you now in your pursuit of a bed warmer."

Stephanie did not say anything until she was out of the room and down the stairs. She then turned to Jon, "Firm rule? You are not available?"

“Well they aren’t really written rules….and…I… just couldn’t……” When it comes to talking to women Jon is just so damn eloquent.

"It is okay Jon, I saw you put her off. Well I have to say you handled that well. But what is this about Kidnapping? What are we into now Jon?"

“Rung Tse Fwo Tzoo Bao Yo Wuo Muhn” (Merciful Buddha protect us) he breathed as they hurried down the stair and headed to the lift. “This isn’t just a little run to keep the Princess out of the limelight for a bit. We got to get the bridge… I can then fill you and Tess in at the same time.” They got on the lift to bridge, Tess needed to know the new development too…well maybe not all of the developments.
When the door closed Stephanie was standing close, Jon could smell her soft fragrance in her hair. She didn’t seem to have the same hard expression in her eyes. Jon turned to her and before she could speak he slipped he arms around her and kissed her softly and passionately. When they separated he looked into eyes, “I wanted you to know how I feel and I think I haven’t been very good at being able to say it. We’ll need to talk…and get things figured out.” Jon stood there hoping she would not push him away. The lift door slid open and Jon released his embrace.

Stepping on to the bridge Jon shook his head as Tess looked up at him. Jon plopped himself into the copilot chair, “I’d never make it as a cruise ship captain. Let’s get outta here and back to the black where we belong……..She gave us meat!” Jon did his best to seem composed and continued giving Tess and Stephanie the update on death threats against Miss Fairchild and the real reason for late night rendezvous. Jon answered Tess and Stephanie’s question and then said, “I need to get to Grace and let her know all of this too.” He looked up at the comm and spoke loudly, “Or didn’t you get all of that already?” Jon wasn’t sure but he swore he saw the light flicker next to the mic.

“Well I’ll find JC and fill him in and Stephanie would you fill in Catie and Angela? Tell Catie she’s doing well and keeping up on Miss Fairchild's needs will keep her at a good place to keep an eye on her. (Assuming an affirmative from Steph.) I don't want leave our guest alone to wander the ship so we eat in shifts and keep an eye on the ship’s monitors. Don’t trust any of them.” Jon headed to JC’s cabin, looking back at Tess, “Oh I think you girls may have a bit of competition on them Simon boys.”

With that he slipped out and down to JC’s. When JC opened the door Jon said, “You’re not going to believe what’s going on.” (Assuming JC lets him in Jon will go over the new information and then share the incident with the wedding planner and Stephanie. Jon knows Grace will be telling the others.)

Catie's plan had to be put into motion. This stage was a delicate stage, one where lack of information was a detriment to potentially everything. But how to get more information... and for that matter, how does one verify the integrity of the information gleamed in such a manner?

She made her way to the galley, preparing herself mentally for what she surmised would happen once she went up to the guest quarters.

Prepare the tea. Offer to him first as a way of acknowledging that he has the right to inspect what is given to his charge. Potential places for additional notes include under the saucer, between the cup and the saucer. Should be sufficient space. Go in, after getting okay, leave the tray. No notes from my end. Interception too high of a probability and cannot be explained.
Suddenly, Catie heard a noise. It was sort of like a venting of gas or air. At the sound she turned around.

There, in the galley was a white figure of a woman wearing a formal dress. She wasn't very clear, more like a ghost than a person. A woman in white that seemed to be looking at Catie with a look of concern and care.

Catie stared, stupefied a the apparition in front of her. While she herself appeared frozen, her mind raced.

Image is unclear, distorted. Optical filter? What is going on? Everything has an explanation. Sound of air. Form does not appear solid, unlikely to have material component. Gaseous component?
Her train of thought broke as she saw the figure reach out her hand as if to touch Catie. Catie found herself raising her own hand as though to accept the gesture, and she wanted to know if there was actually something there to accept. Yet, without warning, the figure simply vanished, as though blown away by a breeze.

No disturbance of the air. Catie noted, quickly assessing the environment around her, and the lack of a sense of wind, or at least what her sense of touch told her, Illusion? Source of illusion. Optics require light. Material?
She stared at her hand briefly, the one she was going to use to accept the hand of the apparition. No trace.

Catie stepped forward a few paces and knelt, exactly where she interpreted that the apparition would have stood. She examined the floor, and the immediate wall nearby, looking for vents or other sources of potential air movement. Nothing immediately caught her eye.

Mundane explanations exhausted. This is something I don't understand. Catie thought in acknowledgement, Therefore, non-mundane explanations cannot be ruled out.
"Hello?" She questioned of the room around her. Catie strained her ears to listen, yet there was no sound.

White ghost. A woman? Where had she heard-

"Wait until you meet our lady in white - that will get you thinking."
Stephanie! She told her about this! Maybe they were acquainted? Now that she actually knew what Stephanie was probably talking about, Catie needed more clarification.

Tea nearly forgotten (Catie put the tray to the side temporarily), Catie backtracks to the infirmary.

Even if I don't get an explanation, and I don't expect one, the way she talked about her, it sounded like she might like to know if that person appeared.
Catie nearly paused midstep.

Wait, is it a person? Insufficient data. Need more information.
Catie didn't see Stephanie at the infirmary. She rubbed her forehead absently. What to do now? Her mind was peaking with questions and the need to talk to someone about it. She could be patient though.

Leaving a short note for Stephanie to let her know when she got back and that she'd be at her room, Catie left the infirmary and returned once more to her quarters. Unpacking a bit more, she retrieved one of her ornamental fans. Taking a breath, she opened it using her thumb and forefinger, sitting on a cushion on the floor in the middle of her room.

Catie closed her eyes, and began to think further on her encounter.

Why appear to me? Not to mention, that didn't look like a greeting. Concern? Why would- Catie paused, I will think of her as a she, because in the event that it is a person, it is more respectful to think of them as one. But why would she be concerned... or rather, what was she concerned about?
Perhaps a warning to tread carefully. Catie surmised, It's the simplest explanation, and so the most likely, but there is the possibility there is something more that was intended.
Catie held the fan in one hand, and felt the contours of the design with the other. Why appear and disappear so abruptly? Is it something that takes a lot of effort? It would make sense, but no way to get data on that.
The more she thought, the more enthralled she became with the idea. It was the first time she had actually seen an apparition. Maybe it was something that could finally help her prove (at least to herself) that there were things still beyond current understanding. That science had not yet explained everything.

Seth Liang has a military background that reads like the Clean Marine. He was born to farmhand parents of one of the Baron’s Ranches. He joined the war and served on the Alliance side. He was wounded in battle and received a medal for valour for going back while under fire to retrieve four men that had been left behind. He was not Special Forces or anything beyond a soldier but he is noted for bravery many times and scored high in combat training.

After the war he returned home and went back to the farm until one day some hired assassins tried to kill the baron. Seth single-handedly defeated the assassins and saved the Baron’s life. After that, he served as head of Baron’s security until a few months ago when the Baron asked him to oversee Lilianna personally until the wedding. The gun he wears is a gift from Templeton Colt Steele and is a one of a kind prototype called a smartgun.

Asante Chang is a well-known wedding planner with a high profile cortex page (like a webpage). All Grace could find were captures and videos of her attending various weddings, an impressive list of satisfied customers, and some how-to advice for engaged couples. However, outside of her wedding planner stuff, there’s little information on Asante. No background, no history and no records.

Grace sighed as she turned off her cortex box. A war hero and a secretive wedding planner, though Grace was starting to wonder if that Wedding planner was some sort of second bodyguard. Photos, videos, lists and advice things were relatively easy to fabricate especially if one has the same amount of money as the Baron and Unc-…Templeton. Lilianna was important so having two body guards would make sense and having one a little less obvious made even more sense. Grace glanced at her watch and decided that now was the best time to lock the guest in and get that X-ray machine.
Grace got up and finished off the last of her energy when a thought struck her. Even if she locked the guests in, there is always a chance that one might have left their room before she locked the doors. It might be a good idea to have someone help keep watch…But who would be awake and willing to stand watch at this hour?

Grace immediately grabbed another energy drink and hit the button to auto lock the rooms. Then she went to go find Angela. To her delight, Angela was already in the Cargo bay.

“Hey Angela, got a minute? I need your help.” said Grace as she approached her.

“Whatcha need, Grace? “ Angela chirped, wiping her hands on her coveralls and stretching.

“I’m going to borrow Stephanie’s X-ray again, and check out the luggage. It helped us out of a situation last time and I want to make sure they aren’t hiding anything. Want to help?” asked Grace

“Uh, yeah, sure, I’d be happy to. Do we want to go get JC to rummage through any more makeup we find? Yeah, probably not,” Angela answered herself with a rueful shake of the head.

“I need you to stand watch. I locked the doors for the guest rooms but there is always a chance that someone wasn’t in their room. I just need you to keep an eye out for the guests and give me a warning when they are approaching. If it’s Tess or Jon or anyone else, don’t worry about them.” Grace paused before adding “Actually warn me if Catie is coming, I have no idea what her reaction would be and I really don’t want a stranger yelling or generally causing a fuss. Is that okay?”

“So, guests or Catie, warn you, but anyone else is ok…I think I can do that…sure!”

“Thanks! Okay, I’m going to go get the machine, I’ll be right back. Oh and before I forget,” Grace handed Angela the energy drink. “That’s for you, I remember that you always like my energy drinks. Not to mention if it affects you as much as does me, it’ll keep you awake for another four hours.”

That done, Grace quickly ran off to grab the X-ray machine and bring it back to the cargo bay. If she passed anyone, Grace would give them a cheerful greeting before continuing on her way. She grabbed the machine and the lead blankets before returning back to the cargo bay. To her surprise, when she returned Stephanie was there and talking to Angela.

“Stephanie? What brings you to the cargo bay?” asked Grace as she pushed the machine into the room. Grace noticed Stephanie’s eyes drifted to the X-ray machine.

“Hey, Jon told me to x-ray the luggage! It helped last time!” defended Grace.

(OOC: Assuming something along the lines of ‘I’m here to fill in Angela’)

“Did something happen? What do we need to know?” asked Grace in confusion.

(OOC: Assuming a ‘You don’t know?’)

Grace sighed before saying “Believe it or not, I don’t have cameras and bugs everywhere. I just have them where it would do the most good. I’m cautious, not a snoop”

(OOC: Stephanie explains the situation)

Not surprised, a Baron’s daughter is born with a target on her back. Now I am really starting to think Asante is a body guard. If he is doing all this to keep his daughter safe, he would be an idiot not to give her multiple body guards. Thought Grace to herself.
Upon hearing about the incident with Jon, Grace had to bite her lip to stop herself from laughing. Lady Luck does not like the Captain at all…

“Wow…and I thought my luck was bad. Any ways, thanks for telling us, Stephanie. Now I have a lot of luggage to scan and secrets to find out. Don’t worry, I won’t enhance the machine. Have a good night.” said Grace. Once Stephanie had left and Angela was ready, Grace turned on the machine and got to work

OOC: JC found nothing in Asante bag that raised a flag with him. Seth is willing to swear an oath to only use his weapon in the defense of Lilianna.


Stephanie left Tess and Jon in the Cockpit and headed down to the Cargo Bay because that was where she last saw Angela. Part of her wondered the wisdom of filling in Angela n what was going on, but she quickly dismissed that from her mind. Angela was a person and had the right to be treated as one. This memory issue of hers was a challenge but not one that could not be worked around.

She came down the stairs and walked into the Cargo to see Grace hauling her 3d imaging device across the bay with Angela obviously keeping watch. The fact that Angela smiled at her and did not give the alarm meant Grace did not include her among the list to watch out for. The doctor sighed heavily.

“Stephanie? What brings you to the cargo bay?” asked Grace as she pushed the machine into the room. Grace noticed Stephanie’s eyes drifted to the X-ray machine, “Hey, Jon told me to x-ray the luggage! It helped last time!” defended Grace.

“I’m not sure why I bother keeping that in the infirmary. You use it more than I do. I am here to bring Angela up to speed with the recent events that have occurred.”

“Did something happen? What do we need to know?” asked Grace in confusion.

“You don’t know? I thought you ...” Stephanie trailed off as she realized what she was about to suggest. She made a twitchy hand gesture at the ceiling and let Grace fill in the blanks.

Grace sighed “Believe it or not, I don’t have cameras and bugs everywhere. I just have them where it would do the most good. I’m cautious, not a snoop.”

“I’m sorry. That was not what I meant. You have a way of knowing things before we all think about the threat, that is all.”

Stephanie told Grace and Angela about the kidnapping rumours, the threats to LF life and the reason for the night time pickup. She also told them about the proposition of the wedding planner on Jon.

(I am going to assume that Grace shares the info with Stephanie on Asante and Seth)

Upon hearing about the incident with Jon, Grace had to bite her lip to stop herself from laughing. Lady Luck does not like the Captain at all…

“Wow…and I thought my luck was bad. Any ways, thanks for telling us, Stephanie. Now I have a lot of luggage to scan and secrets to find out. Don’t worry, I won’t enhance the machine. Have a good night.” said Grace.

Stephanie nodded, “Have fun Ladies. I need to find Catie. Have you seen her about?”

Both the girls shook their heads and Stephanie left them to look for her friend. As she did, she saw her infirmary door was open (Grace!). She went to close it and noticed a note left on her desk. She read it and it was from Catie saying she was in her room and wanting to talk to her.

Once Stephanie got to the room, she found Catie there with an ornamental fan in one hand and looking like she had ... well seen a ghost.

“I got your note Catie. I take it you have met our Lady in White?”

Destiny Cargo Bay, Day One of Journey. 3:00 AM ST
In the cargo bay, the 3d imager hummed away but wasn’t finding anything of interest. Clothes, clothes, clothes, a few personal items, some stuffed animals and the likes. Not exactly planning a wild honeymoon was she? One thing caught Angela’s eye was there was a picture frame, wrapped in a bundle of clothing and stuffed into a side pocket of one of the large trunks. The imager could not show the picture itself, but it was odd that she would hide a picture.

The only other thing that sparked Grace’s interest was a small round device in another of the trunks. The device resisted the imager so it could not penetrate it, but it was small – about the size of a bottle cap. There was a faint energy signature to it, meaning it had power but no signal coming from it.

OOC: The only way to look closer at either item is to break into the luggage.