☠ Black's Bounty: 2nd Gen CLOSED/HIATUS

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[riseark]

xxxxxxxxxxxl o c a t i o n ↠ Oasis: Uranusxxxxxxxxxxxw i t h ↠ Lexi & NPCsxxxxxxxxxxxo o c ↠ n/a

Kitten was seated in the runner, busy tapping away at keys and tuning out the sounds around her. The mission at hand was a freighter hauling weapons, on its way to check in with the GTF. Kitten had been scrambling their frequencies while Lexi and the rest of the ground crew got into position. "Continue to scramble until we have boarded and taken out their communications." The only voice she allowed to register in her brain was Lexi's. Everything else was extraneous and unnecessary noise. "Let's roll out!"

While Lexi and the rest of the crew was gone, it was Kitten's job to continue scrambling. She had to keep a constant eye on her readings and adjust frequencies when the time called for it. She had a timer going on as well, timing how long Lexi had been gone. She had a window of time for how long it usually took her for jobs like this. It was there for more serious matters, like making sure that Lexi didn't take too long compared to her usual time, suggesting there was trouble aboard the ship. For Kitten and Lexi, it was more of "How did I do? What was my time? Did I beat my record?" Fifteen minutes later, Lexi was back in the runner without a hitch. They left the freighter there, helpless, as per usual.

Lexi turned to her tech specialist, "Well, that was a nice run."
Kitten replied "I'd hope so. You took your sweet time in there." In all honestly, it hadn't been long at all. Kitten was just playing.

Kitten turned back to her station as Lexi muttered about R&R. They had been in space for a while now and it was starting to take a toll on everyone, even the strong and ever resilient Lexi. She'd be worried if Lexi didn't think they needed a pit stop soon.

As they approached the main ship, Lexi got on the comm, "Duchess to princess...landing party incoming. Lower shields upon approach. Lexi89IU4." After hearing the confirmation from the Renegade, Lexi piloted the runner back to the main ship. She waited to hop out of the runner until everyone else had left, making sure no one had left anything behind and that all the systems had shut down properly. She was lucky to catch what the captain was saying as she hopped out of the runner herself. "-I think we beat our record!" A cheer went up, since they all knew what that meant. Drinks were on her at the club later.

Kitten waved and left the area, desperate for a shower. When the rest of the crew came back, their adrenaline filled bodies permeated the air with a horrible stench that she could have escaped from. She needed to wash that all away. Besides, she had won some body wash in a "ladies poker night" game that would be perfect for tonight's clubbing.

She took her shower, ran back to her quarters and rummaged around in her closet for something good. She could dance in anything, but some materials made it easier than others, and she was looking for one of those. She had no time for extra effort when she was trying to relax. Finally, after some rummaging, she found a breathable, strapless, black dress that went no lower than the edges of her fingertips. Matching heels were in order, as well as a black and gold bangle for her wrist. Her nails were painted gold while her earring studs were black. Finally, she did her hair, putting it in a high ponytail while combing her bangs out, and then curled sections of the ponytail. She was dressed and ready to go, but she figured that while she had some time, she could get a light snack to eat. After all, it would be no good to dance on an empty stomach.

Kitten made her way to the mess hall and dug around in one of the kitchen fridges while the cook on board was preoccupied. She grabbed some strawberries and chomped them down before being caught and chased out. "Kitten! You git outta here!" Kitten laughed, "Nya-nya, nana-nya!"

She ran to the loading deck and was a bit surprised to see that her ride was waiting for her. Oops. With a giggle, she boarded the runner and sat down beside her friend and captain. She offered Lexi the last strawberry she had with her. Once they had landed, Kitten stepped out and stretched her arms out. "Well, Kitten, shall we go have some fun?" Kitten laughed and nodded, "Oh yeah!"

Oasis was a very popular place, catering to anyone and everyone in the area. It was probably one of the few places still around that didn't bother with allegiances and loyalties. You lost so much profit when you pushed half the population out the door. You could dance, drink, and party all night without having to worry about a bounty or the GTF. Civilians were at peace of mind as well, and it just made for the best of atmospheres. As soon as the girls entered the club, Kitten heard a familiar song being played on the dance floor. She'd be a fool not to rush over there and dance to it while it was still playing. She dashed away, finding a good amount of space to occupy. Didn't these club-goers know this was the song of all songs to dance to?

The song ended and another good beat followed. Kitten didn't know this one, but that wouldn't stop her from finding and matching the rhythm. It was an easy task after all. Soon, Lexi had found her, accompanied by a drink, "Hey~ There you are!" Kitten waved Lexi over to join her. "Haha! Doesn't take much to find me, huh?"

They danced on until there was a nice sized group around them, men and women deciding to join in, with Kitten and Lexi in the middle. The DJ pulled one great hit out after another, switching it up with remixes and original versions like mad. It was just the right mix to let her mind melt away and allow her body to run on autopilot. Lexi seemed to feeling the same thing as she spoke up "Hell, I needed this soooo much!" Kitten knew all too well that her captain needed a break. It wasn't so bad that she had to finally speak up, but even if she had, Lexi would have just told her she was thinking too much. A few songs later, Lexi started darting her eyes around. "There are soooo many to choose from Kitten. Help me out here!" Kitten laughed, knowing exactly what she was talking about. "Alright alright, let's see here." She toned down her dancing so that she could get a good look around the place. The bar was first for inspection. "What about the cutie sitting by himself? He's just talkin' to Riles. Gotta be a solo." On her way back to looking at Lexi, her eyes passed over a man sitting in a booth, just watching the dance floor. His arm was resting on the top of the booth while his other raised his drink to his lips. She refocused her attention on him. "Ooh, or Mr. Suits over there." She nodded in his general direction. "I think he's looking at you~." Kitten wiggled her eyebrows at Lexi and laughed. "So, Lexi, what are you in the mood for tonight? Lonely cutie, or Mr. Suits? I can keep an eye out if you're looking for a door number three too ya know."

[MalteseAutoKat]

∞ "Alright alright, let's see here." Lexi was making some possible choices while Kitten also looked around. It was getting hot, and Lexi soon found her dress clinging to her. She'd have to go cool down in a few minutes, and she really needed some water before her next drink. "What about the cutie sitting by himself? Gotta be a solo." Lexi nodded, she had spotted him earlier, and he was still alone. From here, he still looked like he was waiting on someone, but she could be wrong. He could just be a loner. "Ooh, or Mr. Suits over there." Kitten nodded in his general direction. "I think he's looking at you~." Lexi shrugged, she didn't really like that one. He just wasn't her type.

"Well, the one at the table, I will maybe try. He looks...I don't know, like he doesn't even want to be here." As she turned and looked at Kitten, she smiled, "Suits isn't my type. But I see another one, and he is already nodding at me. He'll do in a pinch." Lexi nodded at the male standing in a group at the other end of the room and watched him smile. He was tall, had blue eyes and dark hair. Plus, he had a killer physique, all the better for play later. "I'm gonna go cool off, if I don't come back, I'll see you in the morning for coffee at the open veranda on our floor, ok?"

Lexi made her way to the bar and slid in between two males. "Water, then a Croatts whiskey please." Riley knew the drill and brought her the water first. It was ice cold, and she took the glass, drinking half of it down before stopping. Taking out her phone, she checked her messages from her ship, holding it close enough to her so no one else would see what she was reading. Several purchase orders were waiting for her signature, and as she pulled out the stylus, she sighed. It seemed money always was in a state of flux when you ran a ship. There were always things you needed to have to buy. Lexi signed them all, and making the pick-up date for tomorrow morning. Kitten and herself could take care of the other things that they'd have to pick up on their own. Responding to texts from her 2nd in command, Lexi was soon finished and turned the screen off. The phone went back into her bag as she finished off the water. It was about that time she felt an errant hand slid up her leg, making it's way to her inner thigh. It was the man to the left, and one thing she hated was someone touching her unwanted.

Lexi's hand shot down and found the wrist of the man, gripping it at the pressure point while she lifted her booted foot and ground her sharp heel into the arch of his foot. A satisfied smile curved her lips when she heard him hiss, and he found Riley staring him down. Finding somewhere else to be, he made his way away from the bar quickly.

"Sorry Lexi, the creepers are out tonight."

Lexi just quirked a brow, "No worries Riley. I can handle them." Finishing off the water when he chuckled and walked away, she placed the glass down and waited for him to being the rest of her order. The male at the table, 'Cowboy', had witnessed the whole thing she was sure. Lexi studied him through her shades in the mirror behind the bar. He wasn't oblivious, his eyes were intermittently scanning the crowd as he sat. He was very good at it though, you really couldn't tell he was doing it unless you were one who normally did that yourself.

Her drink arrived finally and Lexi took a sip. It was Croatts in origin, kind of thick and very strong. "Mmmm, that's just right Riley. Thanks~" It was smooth going down, and had a smokey flavor she had always loved. It was also her father's favorite.


The man at the table signaled for another round for himself, and Lexi had finally had enough. Someone who was here, at the Oasis, needed to be happier. All she had seen him do was frown every once in a while and remain stoically silent. Turning around quickly, she took the beer from Riley, "I'll take it over."

Sliding the beer in front of him, she pulled a chair from a table next to his and sat down. "So, your're a quiet one, huh?" At his raised brow, Lexi smiled. He was going to be a challenge. Lexi liked challenges, and if not tonight, then maybe some other time. There would be another time though.

Trying again, she stated, "You're too good looking to be sitting here all alone. You waiting for someone?"

"What answer will get you to leave me alone?" His answer was a slow drawl, and it immediately intrigued her. It had to be Earthian, but where from? She'd ask her mother about it the next time she talked to her. Lexi didn't miss the sarcasm, but it didn't phase her in the least.

Lexi thought for a minute, and replied, "The truth...I don't tolerate liars."

"Fine. No." Short and to the point, almost brusque.

"Wow, such a sourpuss. Maybe you just need something sweet."

His brow rose in question as he asked, "Pardon me?"

Lexi leaned in quickly and tipped his hat up a little, kissing him before he could fully react to her. When her lips met his, she felt a hand go around her throat. It flexed, and then loosened up, finally releasing slightly to hover. Lexi pulled back slowly, smiling, and bit her bottom lip before saying, "Mmmm mmm, Cowboy," Lexi slid on her shades and looked him over closely, "bet you'd make for an exciting time." Turning to finish her drink, she slowly grinned. It was that same s**t eating grin her father always wore around her mother.


Drink halfway to his mouth he paused, his eyes narrowing, a slight look of disgust creasing his face. "You bet, cupcake."

Before she could reply, her phone rang. Sliding it out of her purse and turning away from him, she answered in a brisk but low tone, "Graves." Her tone was no longer the bubbly, happy one she used with the man, but all business. "That's correct. Bill it all to the Renegade and I will pick that one, smaller parcel up tomorrow." finishing up her conversation, Lexi turned back to him.

She met the male's eyes, grinning again before saying, "I couldn't stand to see you so unhappy. Sorry I couldn't cheer you up any." She stood and slid her purse onto her shoulder, taking her glass in her hand. "See you around, Cowboy."

Lexi turned and walked off, her date for the night meeting her halfway to the door. She then waved to Kitten to let her know she was leaving and saw her respond. As he put his hand around her waist, Lexi turned back and slid her glasses down, winking at the male at the table as she went out the door.


I Am At ❀ The Oasis I Am With ❀ Kitten and club patrons; Cowboy; date for the night I Am Doing ❀ Having a good time OOC ❀

[UntamedRain]

Sweat dripped from the big body tossing and turning on the bed. Muscles strained, and teeth were gritted as his throat convulsed as if biting back a scream. Glazed eyes flew open seconds before he was in motion. Gun already in hand he was off the bed before he even realized what he was doing. It was the burning sensation of sweat dripping into his eye that recalled him to the here and now and what he was doing. Stumbling back a few steps he dropped back down on the bed. Elbows propped on his knees, he gripped the sides of his head, gun still in his right hand.

With measured control he forced himself to steady his breathing, slowing it and his heart rate back down. Since he was alone he ignored the fine tremors racking his body, especially his hands. Pressing his hands tighter to his head, to lessen just how bad they were shaking, he squeezed his eyes tightly shut. It didn't take long to get his body back under control, but he could not prevent the overwhelming anxiety he felt, nor stop the obsessive thoughts that someone was on his ship that didn't belong. That he, and his crew were in immediate danger.

He became more aware of his surroundings and that he, like a dumb a**, had the side of his gun pressed against his head. Making a sound of disgust, he set it down on the night stand beside his bed. Knowing he wasn't going to get anymore sleep tonight, and that he wouldn't be able to concentrate on anything else if he didn't get the entire ship searched, Gray got off the bed and slipped on a pair of jeans. Padding over to the comm system against the wall, he pressed a few buttons to turn all the functions back on. He was a paranoid sort after all. Without wasting time he contacted his second in command, something he knew she was used to by now, "Search the ship." His orders were short and to the point.

It took about an hour, probably longer in truth, for every nook and cranny of the ship to be searched over, some of which he went over himself. Not til it was completely done did he feel at ease. Even then he remained on edge with everyone around him. The only one he was the least bit calm about was his second in command, and even then it was touch and go. This was normal for him however, because while he trusted the people in his crew on some level, he was always suspicious of their motives, and if they were planning to turn against him.

He could tell they were on edge with him as well. Some were down right pissed off with his behavior, though they knew to keep it to themselves as best they could. Rubbing his eyes he was just grateful they'd arrived to their destination and he could get off his ship, give his crew some space, and get a drink.

For what must have been the 100th time in the last few minutes he went over the layout of the area he was visiting. Reconfirming, and making calls to his crew that things were as they should be and that nothing had been changed, he stepped out of the shower. He also made sure that they had placed some go bags in various places throughout the city in case things went bad. Those weren't the only bags of course. He had some he'd placed on the planet ages ago that no one knew about. You really are a paranoid s**t. Gray thought with a semi explosive curse. Jamming his legs into his favorite pair of well-worn jeans he threw a white shirt on, followed by an old flannel he rolled up to just above his elbows. His old boots came next, nearly completing the 'country boy' look. Finger combing his hair he slid his stetson on, lips curving a bit. He knew that his appearance would give a few people pause but they'd soon mosey along to leave him be. Which was just what he wanted anyways. Who knew being himself could work for him.


--- Skip ---


He hadn't even been in the damn bar thirty minutes and already some hot pink dress wearing chick was intruding on his contentment. He didn't bother removing his booted feet from the chair next to him when he saw her approaching with the drink he'd ordered. Here we go.

"So, you're a quiet one, huh?"

Her words caused him to raise a brow, and to bite back the retort about how she was a smart one. His Mama had taught him a bit better than that. Though he wished his silence would goad her into getting huffy and leaving, he was out of luck because instead he found himself in a conversation. One that involved something sweet. And he hated---

Somehow their talk took a unexpected turn, because the woman was leaning towards him, pressing her lips against his and he had a hand wrapped around her throat. It took all his training to keep his instinctive reaction to her advances in check. Relaxing his grip before he did any damage, he let her neck go, though he couldn't take it away completely. He was relieved the moment she pulled back, he barely even registered the first bit she said to him. Lifting his beer off the table, he raised it to his lips, desperate for a sip. He caught her next words, and paused before he could take a drink. Gray wasn't able to prevent his look of disgust at being flirted with. "You bet, cupcake." He said without much interest, simply hoping she'd leave now. He was certain he'd made it more than a little obvious he wasn't interested.

Her phone ringing drew his attention back to her, his body tensing as if he was waiting for something to happen. His eyes instantly scanned towards the quickest way out of the club. Setting his beer back on the table, he kept his grip loose, though he was prepared to chuck it at her at any moment if need be.

How she answered the phone though gave him more pause than her attempted kiss had. Graves? Forcing himself to remain lounged in the seat, he listened to her conversation, his mind reeling a bit. The night had taken an interesting turn that was for sure, especially since she looked nothing like what people thought. What he'd thought she'd looked like . He couldn't help wondering if she had any idea who he was. Either she didn't, or she was ballsy as ********. If the latter it would come as no surprise considering who her parents were.

He didn't even have to think about his next step, taking easy advantage of her distraction. Slipping the smallest of tracking devices into her purse, something he kept on him at all times, he just hoped she didn't ditch the purse too soon. It happened quickly and just in time as well since her conversation didn't last long. Lifting his drink again, he took a swig as she gave him some lame reason as to why she'd bothered him. For once he was actually glad for the intrusion. If not for that he might never have gotten a chance to meet her... and in turn get a tracking device on what was possibly the biggest bounty he'd ever get a chance to catch.

Watching her walk away he pulled the brim of his hat low, paying her close attention. He couldn't help shaking his head when she winked at him before leaving the club. Based on what he'd heard of who her father was, it seemed she was just like him. At least when it came to this particular scene. The woman was a flirt, but he supposed he should be grateful. Dropping his feet off the chair Gray stood up, paying the rest of his tab before he too left the bar. Once outside he put a call through to a certain crew member to begin tracking device number sixty-three. Until next time.


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ʟᴏᴄᴀᴛɪᴏɴ: S.O.B > The Oasis
ɢʀᴀʏ's ᴡ/: Crew > Cupcake
ᴏᴏᴄ: First post woot

[MalteseAutoKat]

It had been a pretty quiet shift and Shen spent most of it going over reports and doing 'paperwork'. Her Captain, Liam Matthews, otherwise known as simply Gray, hated that kind of thing. So, he delegated it to her, which thrilled her to no end...not. They were on course to Uranus, so her captain could get off the ship for a while. Shen was grateful for that, since Gray had been really on edge of late and needed some time off the ship and away from the crew. "Away from me as well..." she thought to herself with a tiny smirk.

Shen just wanted a day or so to be at peace, preferably without anyone around. Her 'delegated' duties done, she gave control of the bridge to her lieutenant and made her way to the ready room which was located off to the side. Mainly a place for the Captain or those in command to go for some privacy, but still be within shouting distance. It was a small room, one desk, one console, two chairs, and very little decoration. Minimalist in fact. She didn't decorate it, that was her captain's doing, but Shen didn't mind in the least bit.

Waking behind the desk, she tapped the console and read through communications that were marked urgent, taking care to not touch anything that was personal to Gray. This didn't take long, and as she finished, Shen sighed and rolled her neck, popping the vertebrae. The chair was a bit large for her, and as she brought up her legs and crossed them at the ankles, her sword was laid across her knees. Her hands she folded on top of the sword and Shen closed her eyes, moving her consciousness into a semi-alert state. The shift had been uneventful, but tedious, and Shen needed some time to readjust her mind.

Halfway through her chakra release exercises, the comm went off. It was Gray, who should have been asleep at this hour. "Shen..." Her answer was short, she hated being interrupted, but she doubted he would even know the difference.

"Search the ship." His voice was terse and to the point.

"Yes Captain." Shen immediately got her head of security on the line and told him to start a search, high level, possible intruders. Putting the ship on yellow alert, Shen unwrapped her body and stood, her sword being put into the sheath on her back. Shaking her head before she stretched, she considered the possibility of what had caused this latest alarm. He was probably sleeping and had a dream; it was known to happen. This was not common knowledge to the crew, she always told them it was their Captain being diligent and careful. Whether or not they bought that crap, did not concern her. Anyone who questioned these searches didn't stay long, Shen made sure of it. No one would question the Captain's motives in her presence.

The room she was in was checked for anything abnormal, and she then took her search to the bridge. "All Stop. I'm heading out to search with the security teams." Her lieutenant nodded and she left out of the metal doors. It did not take long for the search to be completed and she got the Captain on his comm. "Sweep is all clear. Go and try to relax before your departure, Captain." Making her way back to the ready room, she stopped and got a bottle of water along the way. As the doors opened to the bridge, she looked around and said, "Yellow alert down. Resume course." Once they verified her order, she went back to the ready room and took the cap off, taking a couple of long swallows.

It couldn't have been an hour later, after they were in orbit around Uranus, before her comm link opened again. It was Gray, asking about the preparations and such. "They are all in place as you requested, Captain." Shen paused and smirked, "Please do some relaxing while on the planet, Gray. We all need it." As she cut the signal, she could have sworn he grimaced a bit, or maybe it was a smirk, it was hard to tell with him sometimes. Well, the man needed some R&R, and it was as simple as that. Preferably before there was a mutiny and they had to kill the crew.

~~~~~~~later~~~~~~~

Shen had finished her meditation sequence and was showering quickly. Her shift was starting shortly, and Gray was due to leave. She'd had little rest, just long enough to meditate, but she was used to the erratic schedule she sometimes had. Dressing in her boots, cargo pants and loose-fitting shirt, she armed herself before going out of the door of her room. Making no sound, she strode through the hallways, keeping clear of those who were hurrying to make the runners that were going to the planet's surface. Clearing the bridge, she took over command and wanted to shove Gray out of the doors herself. Mentally rolling her eyes as he left, Shen sighed silently. It was going to be a long twenty four hours or so.

It was a long night anyway. Shen spent most of it ordering supplies and doing reports, again. It was quiet though, no surprise searches and the crew seemed more relaxed already. Shen ate a quiet dinner and watched all incoming communications. One caught her attention. Gray had called for an activation on a tracking unit. "Can the man not stop working...danche! (damn)" Shen swore under her breath and decided to go check on the bridge and make her rounds of the ship. It would be too soon and he would be back. Hopefully this time she'd get to go on leave for a while. She was always a bit afraid to go, because then there would be no buffer between him and the crew...or more like his paranoia and the crew.


location S.O.B various locations~bridge~ready room // with whom other crew // ooc //

[riseark]

xxxxxxxxxxxl o c a t i o n ↠ Oasis -> Renegade Princessxxxxxxxxxxxw i t h ↠ Lexixxxxxxxxxxxo o c ↠ sorry it's kinda short

"I'm gonna go cool off, if I don't come back, I'll see you in the morning for coffee at the open veranda on our floor, ok?" Kitten waved her captain off, shouting out ”I better not see you back here! Go get your fix!” With a laugh, she resumed dancing, getting closer and closer to the guys who danced as well as they looked.

The rest of Kitten’s night went smoothly, grinding with strangers and getting offers of drinks after the next song. She dragged one of her dancing partners back to one of the restrooms with her for a fix of her own before getting a soda from the bar. Once that soda was in her hand, she was on her way back to the ship for a shower and bed.

She was just a bit buzzed, not entirely drunk, so she made it to the showers in decent shape. The warmth of the water was so soothing that she almost fell asleep in there. Kitten got out and ventured to her room, where she snuggled under all her covers – towel and all – and drifted off to sleep.

In the morning, her alarm went off, super noisy as always. Super noisy was the way to go if you wanted Kitten up before noon. Her alarm clock was across the room, so she had to get up to make the noise stop. BEEP BEEP BEEP BEEP

”AAAARGH!” Kitten groaned as she kicked off her covers. As the cold air hit her skin, she frantically reached for her covers again. She cursed herself for not bothering to change into pajamas before passing out, but the alarm clock was too bothersome for her to stay in bed any longer. She’d have to brave the cold for a few seconds as she smacked the alarm clock silent.

She got up and changed into some comfortable baggy pants and a tank top, taking as much time as she could. She was not a morning person. Brushing her teeth and grabbing some breakfast, she made her way back to the veranda where she’d be meeting with Lexi. Today was about business.

Taking her yogurt breakfast with her, Kitten arrived at the hotel veranda that Lexi told her to meet her at. Walking towards her captain, she offered some of her yogurt before taking another bite. The strawberry banana was her favorite. ”So, heard you walked out with someone last night? Did you get through to the lonely cutie?” One she had finished her yogurt, she decided to get down to business - couldn’t waste their precious daylight after all. ”Mm. What’s first on our list?”

[MalteseAutoKat]

∞ Lexi let herself and her date into the room, strip searching him before any festivities began. She had learned many things being wanted, and the first was to be cautious, perhaps overly so sometimes. But no one came into her personal space anymore, into her bed, without being searched. Of course, he thought it was merely a game, and she played along.

Several hours later, in the wee hours of the morning, Lexi rose out of bed and showered. The male's chest was rising and falling rhythmically, and she smiled as she went and sat at the desk, pulling her purse to her. Her thoughts went to 'Cowboy', the man from earlier. Sliding her mini-tablet out, Lexi started thumbing through a program, looking at pictures. "Ah, thought so. Man I must've been lit like a torch." It was as she thought; Cowboy was none other than Liam Matthews, the leader of the new Brigade. "Wow... what a cold man you are, Cowboy." A naughty smile crossed her features as she looked at him. "We'll have to see what it takes to warm you up won't we?" Lexi murmured to herself, not wanting to wake her guest.

Rummaging through her purse, looking for her phone, Lexi felt something unfamiliar. Slipping the object out, she grinned, "Heh. Really? Now who would...mmhmm." Cowboy had pulled a fast one and planted a tracking device on her. So, he was after her then was he? Lexi laughed in a humorless way. "So, you want to play the game with me then?" She knew deep down his only interest was the money he'd get from tagging her after last night's reaction. He had planted it in the hopes of sneaking up on her off-planet. The question was, would she let him? Lexi looked through the notes she had on him, reading them again. "No...he's too dangerous." A devious grin showed her white teeth in the reflection of the glass screen. "But that doesn't mean I can't ******** with him a little."

~~**~~ the next morning ~~**~~

Lexi woke up the male and shooed him out of the door early. She hadn't had but a couple hours sleep, but she was rested and alert. Now she knew why her father and mother didn't sleep much. Being a Captain, you couldn't afford to really. Deciding to just wear her robe, Lexi made sure to tuck the tracker into her pocket and left out, making her way to the veranda. The robe was done in a tan color, much like her skin, and slightly transparent. Her slippers made no sound on the carpeted hallway floor, and as she sat down, the waiter poured her coffee.

While she looked out over the city, she was pensive as she thought about what to do now that Cowboy was going to be a problem. The man was sexy as hell, especially in that getup he was wearing last night. Closing her eyes, she could see him in that chair, his Stetson pulled down, his eyes lazily scanning the room. Her hand rose to her throat, the feel of his grip sending a shiver down her spine. It wasn't fear, but something much better, that caused that shiver. The man intrigued her, and made her think thoughts she shouldn't, especially when he was now actively hunting her. Well, there was nothing for it. She'd get him to warm up, it was just a matter of time.

Switching gears, she thought about home and her sibling that was soon to be born. Lexi's soft smile represented what that meant to her. As she crossed her legs again, swinging one leg back and forth, she considered possible names. No one knew what it was going to be since her mother had refused to know early. Lexi hoped it was a boy, lord only knew she needed the family spotlight off of her so she could actually work unhindered. Every time she made a move, either her father knew or her Tora did and it tended to get a bit tedious. It was like she was under watch all the time. And now, she had the Brigade leader hunting her too. Although, if truth be told, she wouldn't mind him catching her..."Stop it girl," she told herself under her breath.

Lexi heard Kitten before she appeared and as she offered her some yogurt, Lexi declined. That substance was never sweet enough for her, and she emphasized that by spreading jam on her toast point. Chewing slowly, lost in a bit of thought, she refocused as Kitten asked, ”So, heard you walked out with someone last night? Did you get through to the lonely cutie?”

Lexi laughed softly, "Ahh, no. I don't think I'm his type judging by his reaction." When her hacker raised a brow, she said, "He tried to choke me out when I kissed him." Lexi smiled and shrugged, her grin very evident. "Hell Kitten, he was ********' hot. But," she paused, "he is also the leader of the Brigade...Liam Matthews. Can I pick 'em or what?" At Kitten's look, she grinned wider, "And he planted this in my purse." Bringing out the tracker, she let Kitten hold it. "Seems kind of standard, but I am going to hold onto it for a while. When we get back to the ship, I want you to back hack it. See if you can get into his systems long enough to get his call numbers. I think he needs a vid call very soon." Her eyes twinkled with mischief as she took another bite and chewed.

”Mm. What’s first on our list?” Lexi looked at her and thought a minute.

"Well, that depends on who wants to do what. I have something to pick up and need to go to the market. I also need to make it by several warehouses and get some...items. You can do that if you wish while you are out getting supplies for the systems on the ship maybe? It would save me some time." Kitten knew very well what items she meant. They were items for the weapons on the ship, ones her Uncle had procured for her. Kitten's answer was interrupted however, as an unannounced guest made his entrance.

I Am At ❀ The Oasis I Am With ❀ date for the night~~Kitten and Guest I Am Doing ❀ Having a good time~~Conversing on Veranda OOC ❀

[DoctorBear]

Alister's footsteps were calm, but silent. He was never one to needlessly give off his presence, even when it came to 'family', at least not until it posed convenient. He had managed to interrupt the waiter on their way out, convincing them to hand over the coffee and an extra cup as he made his way to the veranda with both in hand. You would think that hearing the conversation between Lexi and Kitten would've surprised the man, but after taking care of her for so long, little seemed to surprise him. The capacity for trouble that the girl could get into seems unquantifiable, and while he may not have liked it... There was a time for everything. And now, was not the time to address the issue in any sort of reprimanding manner. She was growing older after all, even if he didn't like it.

He was quicker now, an irony really, given that he had only grown older. His calm and placid nature remained intact, but his movements had improved and had earned better judgement as to when to be fast and when to be slow. After having placed the extra cup and the coffee pot on the table, he turned to get an extra seat from the corner, holding it up as he gestured towards the two girls with a small smile and soft gazes. "Lexi, Kitten." nods at each direction before placing the chair down in front of the table "May I sit?" he asked softly again, with a smile. Waiting for permission before taking his time to relax against the veranda's exposure of light while he took off his trench coat, placing it at the spine of the chair in a neatly folded pattern. "You've met Mr. Mathews, I see." his eyes focusing on Lexi then, gesturing with his head towards her neck "And you allowed him to place his hands on your neck," he assumed, meticulously pouring the coffee, drowning the actual coffee with multiple cubes of sugar, before taking a small sip. He much preferred juices as opposed to coffee in the morning, but he was not opposed to the caffeine. Finally, he finished what he was saying after taking his time preparing his coffee, "a bold move." he let out a soft laugh "Of which you never lack any of, as always."

He would have preferred to be more friendly with his engagement, but they seemed to be doing business. It would have been inappropriate to hug the girl, as he so wished, after being apart for so long. Turning to Kitten now, he smiled, "I'm sure you'd have no problems procuring the items, if you so desire." turning his attention back to Lexi as he leaned forward and dug into one of his pockets as he spoke. "But back to why I'm here, my Ibn." he almost cooed in genuine happiness, as he closed his eyes and took out an envelop containing a credit transaction chip. By now, he was sure she knew what was coming. No visit from him was without it's rituals after all. Placing the envelope in front of her on the table he rested his arms back on the chair for his unfocused his gaze to see both Kitten and Lexi. "It must have been a morning just like this, on this very day many years ago, I taught you one of the most important lessons of my heritage's doctrines." placing another cube inside of the coffee cup, he continued. "From the ripples of the waters when faced opposition, to the sun rays that pierce the atmosphere and penetrate your skin," a small placid smile forming "the movement of the eyes that look back at you, they are all as much your teachers as I will ever be." turning back to drink from the cup he then laughed again afterwards. "And shouldn't such a special occasion be honored with a gift?"

The transaction chip would automatically transfer the pre-allotted credits from his specified account to the account she wished to choose. All she would have to do is activate it with her biometric signature as always. He was sure that perhaps, she wasn't too fond of these gifts, but they caused him great joy to spoil the girl. Even if she was more worrisome to monitor than her two parents combined. Nevertheless he'd made an oath to take care of the little rascal, though not so little anymore, he did not plan to resign that oath any time soon. Taking another sip of the coffee he closed his eyes to soak in the rays. "You might take something from it as well, Kitten." he finally noted "Everything, living or synthetic, has a movement that can teach you lessons no other can."





Location The Oasis, Veranda ⌘ Company Lexi, Kitten ⌘ Transformed N

[riseark]

xxxxxxxxxxxl o c a t i o n ↠ Uranus: Oasis Hotel Verandaxxxxxxxxxxxw i t h ↠ Lexi and Alisterxxxxxxxxxxxo o c ↠ n/a

It wasn't a rare occurrence when Lexi didn't bring home a target of hers, but it wasn't a common thing either. Kitten would have bet several drinks that she would have brought the lonely cutie back to the hotel with her. Only after dropping her jaw with the information that the lonely cutie was indeed the leader of the Brigade did it make sense. Kitten mouthed the word "wow", noting just how freakin' out of the blue that had been.

Back to business, Kitten had her own little shopping list for the ship's systems, but she didn't mind picking up a few things for her captain. It would be rude of her not to help out when she was asked. Even if it wouldn't have been, Kitten was happy to help her captain, her friend. "Sure-"

Kitten was unable to finish her statement as the two of them turned into a group of three. She didn't particularly like how the Sandman had sneaked up on them, but she dealt with it. He was a friendly after all, and more so, she was Lexi's godfather. Alister had visited Lexi a couple of times during the time that Kitten was a part of the crew, and while she never had the chance to get to know him, she knew that he was an alright guy. If Lexi trusted someone, Kitten trusted them too.

"Lexi, Kitten." Kitten nodded back at the Sandman as he nodded at her. He was a polite person, which Kitten approved of. It was a rare thing this day and age to see anyone with manners. She was sure to appreciate it when she did see it. As he mentioned the Brigade leader, Kitten perked up. Did Alister know what Matthews looked like? Had he met the Brigade leader before? This happenstance was Lexi's first time meeting and interacting with the guy, but if Alister had met the man before, wouldn't he have given Lexi some information on him? Kitten wondered why he wouldn't have given her a picture of the guy at the very least. She didn't believe that he would purposely withhold information from his goddaughter that she might need, but then again, she didn't know very much about the guy. For all she knew, Sandmen customs dictated that there was no gossip allowed and everyone had to find everything out all on their own.

Turning to Kitten now, the Sandman smiled, "I'm sure you'd have no problems procuring the items, if you so desire."

Quickly, Kitten replied "Sure thing." She was a bit worried if she didn't get her answer out now, she'd never get it out. She honestly didn't have a problem helping Lexi out - she wanted to pick up the extra items - but she needed a chance to tell them that.

Kitten finished her yogurt but did not partake in any coffee. She'd grab a soda on her way out. Unless the coffee was drenched in creamer, she wouldn't like the taste. Seeing how much sugar the Sandman put in his coffee, he must have had similar tastes. That brought a small smile to her face. Quietly, she hung back as he spoke to Lexi, going on about something poetic-sounding. It had a beautiful point, that was for sure, but why that garnered gifts, Kitten didn't know.

Ahh, and then there was the gift itself. The two times that the Sandman had visited Lexi while Kitten was on board, he had brought the captain some sort of gift. Kitten was always curious about what the gifts were, but she didn't want to overstep her boundaries with her captain about it. Either it was nothing and Kitten was just being too cautious, or it was a family matter and Kitten was making the right decision to leave it alone. Even though she left it alone, it always left a little itch in the back of her brain. She was staring at the envelope in front of Lexi, internally begging her to open it and let Kitten see what it was. On the outside, Kitten was sitting back, relaxed, eyes zoned out between the two people in front of her, and waiting to speak until spoken to. On the inside, she was jumping up and down in anticipation.

"You might take something from it as well, Kitten." 'Wait, what?' Her eyes darted to the Sandman. Take something from it? He couldn't mean the envelope, but that was what Kitten's mind jumped to first. As he continued, she confirmed that it was the poetic lesson instead. "Everything, living or synthetic, has a movement that can teach you lessons no other can." She nodded, eyes zoning out between the two again. She knew the sentiment well, but it wasn't exactly something that stuck with her 24/7. Kitten knew she'd profit from keeping such a thing in mind, but it was harder than it seemed.

She sat with Lexi and the Sandyman for a few more minutes until she began to get thirsty. Kitten took this as her cue and cleared her throat to get their attention for a second. "I'll let you two have some time together, get a start on shopping." She gave them both a smile and waved goodbye as she left them. She assumed that since they were technically family, that they'd want some time together without a third wheel. Sandman's visits weren't all that often after all. She'd hopefully get a chance to talk to the guy later on that day. It was something she had been hoping for, for a while now. Kitten also wanted to know if he knew this Matthews Brigade leader guy after all. Even if she didn't get a chance to talk to him before he left again, she could always ask Lexi later. She might not know herself if her godfather had met him before or not, but Lexi would always be able to call and ask on their behalf. It'd just be weird for Kitten to do that.

Out and about, Kitten opened up a bubbling, crackling, perfectly carbonated sweet beverage to soothe her tongue. She needed to stop by several warehouses and several back door vendors as well as legitimate businesses for her errand. Kitten knew what Lexi would be needing from the warehouses, so that wouldn't be a problem. What could be an issue was the sellers knowing that Kitten wasn't Lexi, but not knowing they were on the same team. Hopefully that would be avoided, but she had to be prepared for anything.

There were a few places where she could literally pocket what she needed, but for the majority of her purchases, she needed to sign forms and glare at people who didn't wholly believe she was Lexi's proxy or that a "pretty young thang" like her had a need for such technology and hardware. In a few hours, she was at the ship, marking off all the weapons, hardware, parts, and everything else that she had purchased. Kitten was in a frantic state when she realized one item was missing, but when she sat down in defeat, she felt the box in her sidebag press against her leg. She smacked her forehead and laughed at herself. She was just about ready to storm back into town and throw down with the vendor too. Happy with the orders, she decided to do some personal shopping quickly before locking up on the ship again.

Back out in town, she made sure to buy some bath salts and bubble baths - personal items ran out fast, and strawberry scented things ran out even faster. A box of candy, sweets, and drinks each were all in order as well. She bought herself a new pair of earbuds for working out and the most adorable bat shaped alarm clock as her "one random gift to herself." Once all the things she wanted were back in the ship, she bowed to Oasis and walked inside the ship. She'd miss feeling real sunlight on her skin and breathing in natural oxygen, but living on the ship wasn't such a bad thing.

[MalteseAutoKat]

∞ Lexi had heard him coming, not him precisely, but his getting the coffee and cup from the waiter in the hallway. She knew he meant for her to hear him, otherwise she would have been oblivious to his approach at all. He had taught her how to make herself as quiet as the sand also, and she found it useful when she was hunting prey. Just because she was a pirate did not mean she wouldn't go after a bounty to provide for her crew. It was just more lucrative to pirate than to bounty hunt.

As he asked to sit, Lexi nodded, "Of course Tora Ali." She held her emotions in check, since Kitten and she had just been discussing business. Besides, it wouldn't be prudent to hug him in her presence anyway. As Alister and her subordinate exchanged pleasantries, she sat and sipped her coffee, thinking about what she needed to do today. The prior night was also on her mind and as she heard the Brigade leader's name, she looked at her uncle.

It seemed he knew about her run-in with Cowboy. She had seen pictures of Liam, yes, but the ones she had didn't do him justice; he'd also been wearing that hat which hid most of his face. Truth be told, she'd been a bit drunk by then as well. Lexi'd also bet her last credit he had a hard body under those jeans and flannel shirt. His hand had been strong when it gripped her, and it would have been a fight to get him off her if he had not checked himself. The man was going to be a formidable opponent. She'd wear him down though, it was just a matter of time. "Let him, ha." Lexi laughed, "I don't think he asked my permission. He decided to try and choke me when I kissed him, you know, to cheer him up." She closed the subject for now, since she meant to broach it later after Kitten had left them.

When he placed the envelope on the table, she just looked at it and picked it up, a slight smile playing at the corners of her lips. She knew what it contained without having to open it. "Yes, I remember, I think. There were many days filled with your teachings. Maybe that was the day you decided to teach me how to read facial expressions and if I was wrong, you didn't let me have my candy?" Lexi grinned at him, knowing which occasion he was referring to, but as always she teased him. When Kitten took her leave, Lexi thanked her for running some of the errands. "Thanks Kitten! I have so much to do, you're a lifesaver!"

Turning to Alister she said, "Now, let's discuss this Liam Matthews." The gift she didn't acknowledge yet, she'd get to that in due time. She was used to them by now, and although she wasn't pleased about them all the time, she knew it was his way of spoiling her. "I wasn't at my best last night, and didn't realize who he was until this morning." Lexi told him the whole story, ending with how she had found the tracker in her purse. "Now, what do you know Tora? And don't tell me you know nothing, because I know you better than that. Have you met him? Dealt with him? Is his personality always that of a cold, wet stone?" She was very curious about the male who had piqued her interest, in more ways than one.

As she poured more coffee for them, she got the sugar bowl before he did and added hers. Lexi stood and went to the divan that faced the balcony and patted the empty spot beside her. "Come and sit with me Tora Ali. We have things to discuss." Taking her cup in hand, she sipped the hot, sweet brew while he made himself comfortable. Her gaze swept out over the city below as he started to talk and she scooted in closer to him so he could put his arm around her shoulders. "Spill it uncle. All of it." Lexi grinned devilishly. Those who knew both her and her father knew that smile...it was one that spoke of things to come.

I Am At ❀ The Oasis I Am With ❀ Kitten, Alister~~Alister I Am Doing ❀ Conversing on Veranda OOC ❀

[UntamedRain]

"I already set up everythin' ahead of time, just do yer job and feed me information." Gray said into the comm, his voice calm and cold. He didn't care that he'd woken up the man out of his sleep. He was his senior expert in tracking people, and feeding him information quickly and with detail. Besides it was only 4 a.m. and if the man had gone to bed at a reasonable time then he'd gotten enough sleep. Gray could survive off fifteen minute naps if he needed to. While he didn't expect the same from his crew, three to four hours was enough and his guy should know better than to stay up passed midnight. He'd been with him for a while now and knew how Gray worked.

"Yes, sir. Sorry, sir."

"Everythin's a go. I'm goin' to do another perimeter check. Inform me of any changes." Gray said, the last part being completely unnecessary as he'd already told the man to do that earlier, and he wasn't stupid. He wouldn't be working for Gray if he was. It didn't stop him from saying it though. He waited for a confirmation and once given he left the secured but abandoned building he'd spent most of his night after that brief time of R&R, and some (a lot of) surveillance. Gray always bought a room when he went on these little trips, even signed in, used the code and everything, but he never stayed in them. Not for any amount of time. If someone was after him they would have confirmation he was in that room, and when they got their... well he'd know it. If they managed to survive the booby traps set up in the room he'd have their faces on file from the cameras he placed through out the room. Then it was his turn to go hunting. He'd be back to collect everything all before maid service came a-callin'.


~Hours later - Present~


I hate it when they run, Gray thought as he was chasing down his target. Things had been going so smoothly, but even the best laid plans could go awry. He hated it, but because he knew it could happen, he of course planned for it. No matter which path the man took he was going to run into a bit of a speed bump before he got into any thickly populated areas. If he knew his man any, Gray knew he'd be getting tired any second now and would veer towards where he could grab a bike. It was exactly what Gray was counting on, but if he decided against doing that and instead decided to get to a shipyard, well he was counting on that. If he did neither and went for the pirate bar, located quite a ways from here still, in an attempt to delay him with a brawl... well Gray was counting on that. These were far from the only possible outcomes that Gray had planned for and then made proper arrangements so he couldn't get away. To say that he was a little obsessive on the details was an understatement.

Gray's lips twitched slightly when the man did as he originally predicted. He went for the bike. It was closer than any of the other locations and this particular bounty was lazy. Contacting his man on the S.O.B he said, "Butterfly in flight in three, prepare to cast the net."

Above him he could see his smallest ship, if you could even call it that, one purely meant for stealth and capture. It wasn't even designed for someone to sit in. Picking up speed so he could get closer to his target, he saw the panic enter the mans eyes when he turned his head to look back. That was the slip Gray needed, because the look back caused him to slow just a little and the small ship now above his target opened it's hatch and a net dropped over him. The weight of it alone caused the man to drop, the material both flexible but heavy. Most of the weight came from the edges.

Ignoring the name calling now coming from the pinned 'butterfly' Gray rocked back on his heels and contacted the S.O.B, "Wake Shen. Give her the video report on the mans illegal activities on this planet and have her come get me out."

After ending the call Gray ran a hand over his face, his hand trembling. He hated working without his suit, it made him break out in cold sweats, but being on a safe planet he had no choice. It would be points against him if he wore the suit, they'd assume he'd prepared ahead of time by even bringing it. Meaning he'd planned to capture a bounty on their planet. The net would get him a few looks as it was, but he could claim to have called it in on the go. All lies of course, everyone knew Gray always planned ahead.

Rolling his shoulders he found a step to sit down on and waited for the cavalry to arrive and 'arrest' him. It was pathetic really. Gray and his catch could be long gone by now, but he knew they were coming. He had no doubt someone had called it in. Even when you couldn't see them, nosy people were everywhere.


▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁


ʟᴏᴄᴀᴛɪᴏɴ: All over
ɢʀᴀʏ's ᴡ/: Bounty
ᴏᴏᴄ: So got lazy with the capture.

[MalteseAutoKat]

Shen was reclining in the leather chair in her quarters, reading and listening to the quietness of the ship, without emergency searches and constant training. The night before had been relatively quiet as well, and her Captain so it seemed, had gone to ground for the night. No one had heard from him besides the activation of the tracking unit, to her knowledge. Shen fervently hoped he had been able to rest just a little, but deep down she knew better. The man didn't know what the word relax meant… Maybe one day, he’ll meet his match. A female that can distract him from himself. Shen snorted at that notion. Gray Matthews was much too paranoid to trust anyone enough to let them near him, much less become that intimate. She’d never heard him speak of ever being in a relationship. That didn't surprise her though, since the man didn't fully trust his own second in command. Sighing, Shen wondered if he would even survive to live to be an old man, or if he’d burn out.

A knock at her door brought her out of her reverie immediately. She was off duty now and them knocking at this early hour meant only one thing. Something was wrong. The crew never bothered her when she was resting because they felt she didn't get enough as it was. She'd bet all her credits Gray had done something he shouldn't have, and once again, she’d have to make things right. “Enter.”

“Commander. I have an urgent request from the Captain.” The younger male shifted from foot to foot nervously as she rose and walked over to him.

“Mmhmm...let’s see it then.” Shen walked over to her desk and cued up the latest video Gray had sent and the technician had forwarded. It was a male, robbing some sort of store in the early hours. Shen immediately cross-referenced the picture and brought up a file on him. Switching back to the video, Shen watched as it cut to his chase and capture, and the video of the unmanned ship dropping its net. The video from the craft was much clearer and also showed Gray without his suit on. “A good thing, otherwise he'd be in real trouble.” This was said more to herself while she kept watching through to the end. “You’re dismissed. I’ll take care of this.”

“Yes Commander.”

Shen watched as he made his way out of her quarters and then reverted her attention back to the file on the screen. It seemed there had been a lot of details added recently, and then transmitted before dawn this morning. Running a hand through her dark hair, Shen made an exasperated sound. Danche Gray! Why can’t you just go drink, have sex, and relax like everyone else?! She got dressed quickly; the billowy pants, and loose shirt accentuated nothing, effectively hiding her feminine form. Slipping on her sandals, she debated on what to take with her. Her sword she tucked into its sheath and then secured it on her person. A couple of small, miniature knives she slid up her sleeves and the pins she used to keep her hair up were sharp enough to penetrate most skin. Lastly she threw her cloak about her shoulders and raised the hood. She caught her reflection in the mirror and realized she had forgotten to cover the Clan markings on her face. There’s no time. Shen knew Gray would not like going though the whole process and she had to get to him before he did something stupid.

~~~~On Neptune~~~~

Shen flashed her ID card, looking at the male behind the counter and bullet proof glass. “I'm here to pay the fine for Liam Matthews.” When they told her the amount, she inhaled slowly, counting. “Why is this so high? This was an unplanned capture. You have the video I sent as proof.”

“Miss Shenshen.” The male sighed and brought up a screen. “It’s not the fact he made a capture. We reviewed the feed you sent. It’s clean. But…” he stopped and frowned. “The fines are for what came after.”

“Really?” Shen’s right brow winged up and a slight lip twitch followed. She stood there, waiting and finally said, “Read them.”

“Yes.” He cleared his throat. “One count failure to give up weapons upon request. One count resisting arrest when they tried to put cuffs on him.”

Shen stopped him there, “Cuffs? Are you serious?” Shen sighed, it was no wonder she was paying hefty fines. And he wasn't done...

“Two counts assault on a Neptunian officer when they tried to put him into a cell. And one count assault on another prisoner in said cell when they walked up, tapped his shoulder and asked for a smoke.”

Shen’s eyes bored into the man in front of her. “You people are asinine.” Handing over a card with credits on it she said simply, “Let him out.” The man said nothing as he processed the fine and typed in an order for Gray’s release. Shen stood there and waited, trying her best to recite one of her mental rhymes to refocus. She hoped Gray was calmer by now, but if they’d let him stay in that cell...Shen inhaled another breath slowly. “It’s going to be one of those days.” When the desk officer asked her what she’d said, she’d simply replied, “Nothing,” and moved to the wall where she could watch for Gray when they brought him up from below.

Shen didn't have long to wait, it wasn't even five minutes later when she saw him coming through the double paneled security doors. They must’ve really wanted him out of this place. Shin smirked when he came up to her, then she turned and walked outside with him. Once the doors shut, she handed him the receipt. “Well now,” Shen looked at him askance. “Care to tell me how this happened? I mean,” she smiled now, her eyes crinkling, “didn't I ask you to relax? How hard is it to find some pretty young thing and relieve some tension, Gray? You know...like most men do when they go on R&R?” Shen pointed to a side cafe where they could get some coffee. Well, where she could get some. He’d go with her too, since she’d had to come down here to get his a**...it was a tradition after all. She'd bail him out, and he'd buy her coffee.

location Neptune // with whom Liam // ooc // This was fun to write!

[DoctorBear]

Alister nodded calmly with a soft smile as Kitten took her leave, saying his farewells diligently while allowing for Lexi to have more of her valuable and short time before she finally did leave. It was not his concern to goad or hoard her crew-members, unless they wanted to speak to him directly, and that was something he considered to be good manners. He had taken a slight chuckle to her teasing, but remained relatively quiet as he enjoyed his coffee. There were a lot of questions that Lexi must have wanted to ask, he was sure of it, specially those concerning Liam Mathews. If it had been up to him, they'd be at opposite ends of the galaxy, but Lexi was never one to be easily controlled. That came with it's fair share of pros, and cons. Either way, he would simply have to submit to her nature, and keep an eye on her while he did so. As vigorously frustrating as that could be.

With Kitten gone, Lexi's demeanor changed willfully into the side that Alister knew best throughout the roller-coaster that had become twenty-one years. His cup quickly refilled, though he had to wait his turn to add the sugar, they quickly migrated to the divan facing the city down below on the balcony, Alister's hand embracing Lexi's shoulders as he continued to drink from his cup. He let out a soft laugh again, this time more alert than before as the coffee began to take it's effect, though he didn't seem any less calm than he ever had been. "Times were simpler when a simple "It's best not to know." would convince you not to pursue something, or someone." he commented, "though you always did grow far faster than any of us would have preferred, in all aspects," taking another sip "that is not to say that I am not proud, of course."

His knowledge was extensive when it came to the man, some information having been obtained easier than others. As he began to re-tell his dealings with Liam, and both concerning him, he made sure to stress what a risk he was. To say that he was paranoid was an understatement, even Alister himself, while avoiding the GTF in the days when Sandman was believed to be dead wasn't nearly as cautious and suspicious of both his enemies and allies as Liam was. Exchanges with him were nothing short of complicated, and challenging, requiring the utmost delicate touch in all aspects. He was the kind of client who would shriek at the most minor inconsistency in the process of obtaining whatever it was they were buying, even if it didn't mean any kind of danger to them. It wasn't necessarily a bad trait to have in this day and age, it was what had kept him alive thus far after all, but it was also what made him a man who you did not want to have on the opposite side of the battlefield. Alister was fairly familiar with his military background, as well as his health record, and his history with rebuilding the brigade. Though some details were rumors, others solid facts, it came with the territory of investigating and procuring information about an incredibly secretive and paranoid individual.

"Going after Liam in any capacity, for any motive, will prompt him to fight back without mercy." Alister spoke, closing his eyes and swirling the little bit of coffee that was left after having regaled his thoughts to her. "You will become a threat not only to him, but his entire crew, and possibly The Brigade." he smiled then, already knowing that even that would never stop her from pursuing whatever her mind had targeted at any given time. "He is a very hard to find individual, but there is always a way to find someone in this galaxy, no matter who they are." making a head gesture to behind him to reference the tracking device, he set the cup down on the ground next to the divan and laughed softly "Though, you can always just simply let them find you instead." turning his head then to nudge the back of hers with the arm around her shoulder he kissed her forehead softly and whispered "Always remember my teachings, my Ibn, and I will surely never fail you," leaning back while stroking her hair as he focused on the view from the veranda "surely as the sands in my home planet have never failed to provide me with the precious time I need to fulfill my purpose."





Location The Oasis, Veranda ⌘ Company Lexi ⌘ Transformed N