A Light in the Black (Serenity RPG) - IC - Chapter 1 [Archive]

Old Overholt

2016-08-01, 08:03 AM

The Windward Oasis is one of the less classy establishments on the island but a popular haven for freighter crews due to its low prices and proximity to the port. Most of the pub is indeed focused on the current test, with the Salty Narwhals in the process of potentially upsetting the Hera Hydras - the host of this year's finals. The crowd erupts as Virat Cantu, one of the stars of the Narwhals picks a wicket, keeping the scoring rate in check. Idle observers might notice there's some open wagering going on, not uncommon especially given the popularity of the event, with all manner of bets being taken between the patrons on the results of the game. Nothing absurd, a couple of credits here and there given that this isn't the blue bloods of society, but one could stand to make a pretty penny should they dare.

Aside from those watching the game, there are others casually keeping eye on the score, apparently more interested in conducting business or catching up with old friends. Spacers, freighter captains, and other less savory characters line some of the booths, going over inventories, calculating their expenses, or diagramming out their next routes - anything to get out of the confines of their ship for a while. They might know where there's work to be had.

DoctorFaust

2016-08-02, 02:29 PM

Having resigned himself to not getting any more of his drinks paid for Sami starts mingling with some of the other spacers, quietly putting out the message that the crew of the Onyx Wind was looking for work.

Old Overholt

2016-08-02, 02:50 PM

The first few spacers wave Sami off, either wrapped up in their own work and too busy to bother with him or simply not having anything for him. Nobody seems impolite to him - just not eager to help him out. But eventually he runs across a tired looking man in his early thirties. He's tall - probably about 6'3" - with a shaved head, black stubble, and light green eyes. He's clearly Caucasian but some could even call him a ghost. He's gaunt and looks a little clamy - probably overworked and coming down with something. His clothes are what one might expect of any moderately successful trader - brown steel toed boots, simple brown slacks, and a thin navy blue knitted shirt. There's a woven leather necklace around his neck, a trinket of some sorts buried beneath the collar of his shirt.

After introducing himself as Marcus Price, he nods his head to Sami and says, "Yeah - I got some work for you." He licks his lips and gulps down some build up in his throat. "Got a load of salted fish and shellfish - 450 tons of the stuff - that needs to be delivered to Hera, but I don't want to deal with that madhouse right now. It's all yours for 225 credits. Half now, half on delivery. You interested?"

AliceLost

2016-08-03, 05:43 PM

Siobhan

Siobhan tapped away on her personal computer, the drink sitting next to her remaining mostly untouched. The pair of glasses she was wearing were identical to her EyeTap computer in appearance, but were simple glasses without any software built in. She had already learned that taking fragile, highly expensive technology to bars featuring sporting events was a bad idea.
Nobody else seemed to be in a very good mood today, fixated on the cricket or grousing about it, so Siobhan had given up trying to talk with them and gone back to editing the script for the narration she was working on with her latest piece. It wasn't a very inspiring piece, and she didn't feel that she was getting anywhere fast on it. She glanced up at Sami as he stood to mingle with the other patrons, and contemplated joining him. The company was sullen, the bar was stuffy, and she wasn't getting anything done. She worked best in quiet seclusion, not a crowded sports bar that was forcing her to listen to some of the most strained commentary she had ever heard.

Does anyone else think it sounds like those commentators are just remixing old sound clips from previous seasons, and watching a completely different game? Siobhan chuckled. Nobody else responded to her joke; to engrossed in the screens or their drinks. She sighed, slipped her tablet into her bag, and stood up. Sami had actually started talking to a prospective client. She picked up her drink and walked in his direction.

"...all yours for 225 credits. Half now, half on delivery. You interested?"

What's this, Sami, rustling up more work for the crew? Although for that sum, maybe you're just trying to buy a fancy coat? She flashed him a playful smile.

AliceLost

2016-08-07, 03:24 PM

Siobhan scoffed as Sami explained the offer of work to her. Who wants to be delivering goods to Hera right now? And good luck finding other merchants who want to ship food to a farm world to make up the rest of the trip. You're going to get yourself ripped off here, Sami. You shouldn't be thinking about that for less than twice that price. She talked to him with a slight smile that ought to be fuel to any reasonable merchant's haggling instinct.

Inwardly, she kept her excitement to herself. Hera would be an excellent place for her next documentary...

Old Overholt

2016-08-07, 09:30 PM

"Alright, alright..." Marcus says, holding up both hands in a silent sign that shows he's yielding. Siobhan has clearly backed him into a corner on pricing for the job and pulled out some valid points of negotiation. Exhaling through a set of pursed lips, he taps his fingers on the table in front of his as he stares blankly. He's clearly not happy about the decision he's about to arrive at. "Ok... 350," he offers up, now glancing between Siobhan and Sami with an expectant look. "We have a deal?"

Space Lawyer

2016-08-08, 07:32 AM

Adrian

Adrian had been listening in at a distance. He nods when Marcus comes up with a better price. It had been a smart move to let Siobhan have a berth, it seemed. A large crew like theirs required a bit more in the ways of supplies than was strictly average, and the higher price would let them cover that and put them in a better financial position.

It also seemed that the propitious name of the sip was paying off. Onyx Wind was named after the phenomenon on St.Albans. When the wind ran black with dark stone and the snow mingled with ash, it was a sign that a volcano had erupted, bringing precious minerals from deep within the planet to the surface. The terraforming process there was one that worked from the inside-out, everybody said. They might live on a frozen lump of rock, but the processes going on far below them had accelerated nature's plan by eons. Soon enough, they'd be walking on gemstones.

"Looks like we might be having some work to do. I want us ready to go quick as we can, dong ma?"

DoctorFaust

2016-08-08, 10:53 AM

Sami glances over to Siobhan, and shrugs slightly. "That sounds more reasonable, but you'd know better than me, Siobhan. That enough to justify the trip?"

Q'telun

2016-08-08, 12:12 PM

"Mei wen ti." Lance sets his glass on the table and grabs his coat. "I'll go get started on our course and the pre-flights. You want to pick some passengers up at the port, lao buhn?"

AliceLost

2016-08-08, 04:07 PM

Siobhan paused a moment, then smiled and nodded.
I'm sure we can make that work. She extended her hand to Marcus for a firm business shake.

Old Overholt

2016-08-09, 07:07 AM

A mostly defeated, but somewhat relieved look washes over Marcus' face as he sees Siobhan extend her hand. He considers it for a moment or two, as if making sure in his mind he wasn't going to regret turning over this haul, before reaching out and taking the woman's hand. He gives her a firm, but clammy, handshake before drawing his hand back to his side. Reaching into his pant pocket, he withdraws a small wad of crumbled and brightly colored paper, instantly identified as the credit currency. Marcus unfolds the bills and begins to count out 175 credits worth. There's a fifty note laid down first, followed by a plethora of tens, and topped off with a single five. He's still got a modest sum left in his hand, but nothing out of line for a man in his line of work. "Hope y'all enjoy cricket," Marcus tells Sami and Siobhan. "Y'r about to be in the thick of it."

Almost immediately, the bar crowd energizes and roars with applause and cheers as Virat Cantu - the golden boy of New Melbourne - takes his last wicket, ending the game and sending the Salty Narwhals to Hera to compete in the remainder of the 'Verse Cup. Drunken, euphoric bar patrons begin their celebrations, extending hugs and free drinks to any face they seem to find. It's brought a little happiness to this part of the 'Verse, that's for sure.

Space Lawyer

2016-08-09, 07:25 AM

Adrian

"That I do," Adrian replies to Lance. "We've got ourselves a profitable deal over there, so anything from now this month just puts us ahead of the lean times. It'd be good to keep a bit of fat on us."

Adrian makes his way through the raucous crowd and out of the bar. A joyful mood on the planet was good for business. Might even be folks who weren't so careful with their accounting, and let things slip. Ah, well, no reason to count on that.

He whistles to Giant, and the beast comes trotting over. "Good boy. Hm, ya didn't even eat anyone, did ya. Looks like you get a treat." A trio of richly-dressed ladies mutter under their breath at this as they walk by. "Good thinkin', boy. They'd have probably just given you the indigestion."

coffeegoblin

2016-08-10, 12:41 AM

"I do my best work drunk." Orson downed to rest of his beer and jumped to his feet, talking to anyone left. "Should be a milk run anyway." Most of his last words are drowned out by the cheering in the bar and he shares some respectful handshakes and surrenders to hugs from the more inebriated patrols. He leaves soon after Adrian, heeding his words, to check the engine is ready for the five day trip and get the cargo area prepared for what he expects is refrigerated goods.

Old Overholt

2016-08-15, 01:11 PM

*Fast Forward - Cargo Is Loaded on the Onyx Wind, People Stare At Each Other Blankly on the Way to Hera, Landed Safely*

Hera is a madhouse with the 'Verse Cup. Traffic around the ports has increased tenfold and with game day tomorrow for one of the final few matches, it truly is a sight to behold. Folks from all walks of life - Core and not-so-Core worlds - are flocking to Hera. Scalpers are in full gear selling tickets to the upcoming game, a variety of sections available to spectate from.

While finding a landing spot is no small chore, the crew is able to make their way to the planet's surface and meet with the warehouse representative who, upon thoughtful examination of the cargo, accepts the goods as delivery and hands over the remaining payment to the crew.

Off the ship, there's constant coverage over the teams remaining in the 'Verse Cup: the Beaumonde Bulls, the Bellerophon Bombers, the Ariel Dragons, and - of course - the New Melbourne Narwhals. Replays of the spectacular match between New Melbourne and Hera are everywhere. Virat Cantu's face is plastered on nearly every capture and Narwhal jersey's bearing his name and number (8) are quite prominent on men, women, and children alike. Everyone loves an underdog, right? Lots of people are talking about this team coming out of nowhere to advance this far in the Cup, most attributing their success to the premier bowler among their ranks. It would be nothing short of monumental for the Narwhals to win it all.

The port on Hera is alive with all manner of festivity to entertain the planet's inhabitants as well as its visitors. It's much like one would expect a large fair. Of note, there is:

A barbecue cookoff with what appears to be people gathering to watch a chili eating contest;
Several street performers including a mute acrobat who has painted himself silver like a robot, an exotic and scantily clad woman juggling knifes and torches, and a vaudville-esque magician performing minor feats of illusion; and
Games of skill including tossing darts at balloons and knocking over milk jugs with balls

Space Lawyer

2016-08-15, 06:45 PM

Adrian

Adrian and Giant make their way towards to the barbecue cook-off. There would be some good eatin' there, and neither of them was willing to miss that. The nice payout from the shipping job would cover some excellent spices - perfect for putting on the few kilos of crabs that had been "damaged in transit" and found their way to the freezer on the ship.

Q'telun

2016-08-16, 12:13 AM

Lance Xia

Lance, in the meantime, takes an option sure to piss off the DM and goes off to find a bar to unwind in. Sure, it's been a year already, but he's damn sure he could tell you exactly how many clicks away Serenity valley is from this port. Hell, he's probably flown over this port before and dontthinkaboutitdontthinkaboutitdontthinkaboutit, just get a drink and relax. Definitely not wearing any purple here.

DoctorFaust

2016-08-16, 11:56 PM

Never one to pass on free food, Sami trails behind Adrian and Giant as they head to the barbeque. Sure, it would have been nice to hit up a bar with Lance, but you know. Ribs.

AliceLost

2016-08-18, 03:42 AM

Siobhan

Siobhan stepped out into the crowded Hera air, the tantalizing mix of aromatic spices and the earthy odors of masses of humanity, and took some time to savour stretching her legs on land again. She had never quite grown accustomed to spaceships, and after a few days in a metal box hurtling through the star system, feeling dirt under her feet and fresh air in her lungs was marvelous.

Looking over the diverse gathering of people flocking to and fro from landed starships and vendor stalls, sweat and searing meat wasn't all she smelled. Hera had been the last site of the war, and old wounds, on both sides, did not heal that quickly. Especially with so many folk heading here from the core, there were guaranteed to be a lot of conflicting ideologies packed into some tight spaces; it wouldn't be too long before the heated differences that came with sporting events poured over into something deeper, and with so many thoughts so close to the surface, there were bound to be a lot of interesting opportunities for teasing out such perspectives. She smelled stories.

Lance, wait for me! She dashed after him, careful not to run too quickly lest she splash the landing terrain mud across the hem of her skirt.

coffeegoblin

2016-08-18, 11:31 PM

Orson decides to stay and keep an eye on the ship, heat up a cup noodle and trawl the Cortex for anything of interest.

Old Overholt

2016-08-19, 09:56 AM

Lance & Siobhan

As one might expect, the venues on Hera are packed with all the new arrivals - eager to celebrate the upcoming games and rub elbows with their compatriots (or jab opposing supporters in the ribs). The closest bar the pair can find where they can get in is The Goat & Tricycle. With all the rowdies, security is a bit tighter. Bar managers don't want their establishments busted up, but they still want to do business. A man of Asian descent, standing probably six foot two, with black and gray hair down past his shoulders and a matching goatee minds the door. He's probably in his late thirties or early forties judging by the roughness of his face. He's muscular, but not ripped and threatening - just enough to make the average joe second guess starting a fight. His solemn dark eyes scan everyone passing through the door.

Inside, the bar is filled with boisterous banter about the games and tomorrow's upcoming match: the Bellerophon Bombers versus the New Melbourne Narwhals. Supporters of all four teams can be seen, mostly congregating with those of similar patronage, but the groups talking between one another. It's not hostile - just good natured rivalry. The bar itself has tried to model itself off an old English pub from the Earth-That-Was, but to look at it, you'd barely guess except for the odd signage here and there promoting beers or snacks that no longer exist. The owner must be a collector. Like a Tudor House, there are lots of smaller rooms instead of one giant common area. The rooms are exposed to one another through large archways which have been bordered with dark wood. In each room there are two or three large tables for patrons to gather with lights overhead that cast a dingy yellow illumination downward. The lights themselves have a somewhat transparent blue glass around them, bringing a little color to the otherwise drab interior. There is, however, a main bar towards the center of the building in a slightly larger room that sits about twenty people at maximum capacity where two bartenders tend to the crowd and help the waitstaff along to their respective customers.

As Siobhan looks about, she'll notice that the patrons are fairly tame to some of the seedier joints she's been in. One man does catch her eye, an older gentleman, probably in his late fifties. He's bald, a little overweight, and has a face that looks like it was carved out of stone. Two bushy black eyebrows - like caterpillars they are! - sit atop a set of dead-like brown eyes. He looks to be of Middle Eastern heritage. He's at the end of the main bar, a small notebook open on the table near him. His clothes are that of a working man: dusty boots, thick brown canvas pants, a black long-sleeve shirt, and a white-and-gray scarf about his neck. However, the fact that people are occasionally walking up to him, saying something to him, and the man jotting something down into his notebook appears to tell a different tale than a regular working stiff.

Adrian & Sami

Under a large white tent, a crowd of about two hundred has gathered to watch what is touted by nearby signage as the 26th Annual Chili Eating Contest. White, PVC pipes spread about twenty feet apart in any direction appear to be propping up the canopy which has seen better days given some of the patchwork in the top. The ground has been torn up with recent foot traffic, leaving only some sparse grass here and there, but the ground dry and firm. At the head of the tent is a large table with a pair of spotlights pointed at it. There are eight chairs behind the table, spaced equally out along the backside so that whoever sits down in them faces the crowd.

The ear-piercing whine of the sound system reverberates for a while as a microphone is turned on and kept too close to someone's person. "Ni how, ladies and gentlemen!" a man's voice says. Holding the microphone up near the right side of the table (from the crowd's perspective) is a short, portly man of forty years of age. He's got auburn hair and a thick mustache and a twang that probably makes Giant cringe a little. He tries to channel energy into his speaking that he clearly does not naturally have, making it seem forced. "My name's Yustus McAffere and welcome... WELCOME... to the 26th Annual 'Verse Cup Chili Contest." There's a brief applause for the man dressed in a vanilla colored suit with a soft blue shirt underneath. "We've got a fine bunch of contestants lined up this year, including last year's winner, Margaery Xiao," Yustus says before sweeping a hand gesture to a woman standing near the front of the crowd. She's a tiny thing: maybe about five foot one and weighing right at a hundred pounds. Her silky black hair has been pulled back into a bun. She's youthful in appearance, probably in her early twenties, and dressed in mostly all black: a black skirt; black short-sleeve, v-neck shirt; and a simple gold necklace. She gives a wave to the crowd, turning slightly, as the give her another meager applause.

"But one of our competitors, unfortunately, came down with a bit of a stomach bug, so we have an opening for one brave soul out there... Do we have any takers?" Yustus asks, looking out over the crowd to see if anyone is foolhardy or hungry enough to accept the challenge.

Orson

The Cortex, of course, is filled with news of the 'Verse Cup. Analysis, pictures, speculation - it's all there to sort through. Orson does come across a few interviews on Hera with local government officials talking about the expected rise in crime with the 'Verse Cup. One features Francis Trudeau discussing gambling. "... Of course, for sporting events, there are formal establishments that we encourage individuals to use when placing bets. Given the amount of money the changes hands, these establishments naturally bolster security to protect their assets as well as event-goers. But there are still shady elements out there that would take advantage of folk and relieve them of their money through unscrupulous means."

Q'telun

2016-08-20, 12:05 AM

Lance looks around the crowded bar, and sighs. All he wanted was a quiet drink. This damn cricket tournament. Why couldn't it have been a real sport, like rugby or football? He shakes his head and tries to find a quieter portion of the bar to unwind in. When he finds a place with an acceptable noise level he flags down a waitress and pulls out a 5¢ note.

"Bottle of whatever liquor this can buy me, and two glasses."

coffeegoblin

2016-08-24, 07:43 AM

Orson gets a few ideas to pass the time but an accomplice would be neat. He hadn't seen Sam leave so he hopes he's still on board and knocks on his door. "Sam, you present?" He waits a beat and adds. "What are your opinions visa vie shenanigans?"

Space Lawyer

2016-08-24, 08:19 AM

Adrian nudges Sami with an elbow. "Hey, watch this." He whistles to Giant and comes walking up to the front, doing his best to ignore the eyes on him. "Mr. McAffere, I've got a contestant for ya! He has an iron stomach like none you've ever seen, and I can testify to his appetite! He doesn't have the best table manners though." He nods his head, and Giant happily trots up, tongue lolling. "His name is Giant, and he'll eat you all under the table!"

Old Overholt

2016-08-25, 09:35 PM

Lance & Siobhan

The waitress Lance gets the attention of is a relatively young (mid-20s) woman of ebony complexion. She's short - well under five and half feet tall - but curvaceous. Her jet black hair is wavy and extends towards the middle of her back. Her clothes are simple - not geared towards 'entertainment' , but purely for function and comfort: a pair of olive, form-fitting pants; a white blouse with a lace-up collar; and a plain black vest. "Right away, baby..." she tells Lance with a smile.

It doesn't take her long either. It's only three to five minutes before she's returned with a bottle of Peacock's Plume, an acceptable low-grade whiskey. Retail value would put it a little more than the five credits Lance put down, but maybe she was feeling a little generous or maybe she considered him an easy mark. The pair of heavily used - but still clean - glasses are set down next to the bottle before she pulls the credits from the table. "Anything else I can get you, hon?" she asks of the man.

Adrian & Sami

Yustus McAffere perks up as he hears the voice from the crowd - may of those gathered not as bold as Adrian appears to be. Standing up on the balls of his feet, he tries to peer over the crowd to get a look at the man as he speaks, his eyebrows rising on his forehead a little as he hears all the 'accomplishments' of the potential contestant. However, when Giant is urged forward and he catches glimpse of the dog, Yustus looks none-too-pleased. Perhaps even a little embarrassed. "Suh!" he bellows, lowering his chin towards his chest as he eyes the dog. "Your dog might be a gastronomical wonder, but he's got no place in this competition." Poor Giant - it doesn't look like he'll get a chance to compete. Yustus makes a quick flick of the wrist to try and shoe the dog away before composing himself and attempting to solicit another competitor. "Now, is there anyone else 'ere - preferably of the homo sapien variety...." The barker eyes Giant and his owner briefly before continuing on. "... that would like to compete? We have a lovely trophy and a small prize of twenty-five platinum.

DoctorFaust

2016-08-27, 04:08 PM

Sami glances over at Adrian and offers him a half shrug. "It was worth a try."

The doctor steps forward and raises his voice, calling, "If it's free entry, I'm in. Doubt I'll win, but still..."

AliceLost

2016-08-28, 12:19 AM

Siobhan

Siobhan sits with Lance and accepts the other glass, but keeps her eye on the bar.

Say, have you ever fancied a bit of sports betting?

After a few minutes with Lance, she gets up and moves to the barstools.

Must be a busy time of year for you. she comments casually, nodding at his little book. Can I get you one of these? She holds up the glass of whiskey she has in her hand.

Q'telun

2016-08-28, 01:38 PM

"Not right now, Shao Jeh, I think we're fine." Lance says with a smile and a small bow. He uncaps the bottle and pours a healthy measure into both glasses.

"On a real sport like rugby, sure." He says, looking where Siobahn's gaze is pointed.

When she gets up, he settles back in his chair and undoes the flap on his holster, making sure his line of sight to his shipmate is clear. No telling what some people might do. Best to be prepared. He takes another drink of the whiskey and waits, patient and calm.

coffeegoblin

2016-08-30, 10:44 AM

Orson gave up after a while figuring Sam was already out and went out for a walk with an eye out for scalpers and official ticket sellers.

Old Overholt

2016-08-30, 11:10 AM

Lance & Siobhan

Lance is given a soft, understanding smile by the waitress before she heads off to her next table. Her voice can be heard through the crowd, that same charm flowing as she moves from group to group. If a little extra honey will get a few extra credits, why not?

When Siobhan approaches the man at the bar and speaks, he gives her a once over from head to toe – a standoffish visual review of the woman that silently asks ‘Who are you to approach me?’. He closes up the notebook he has, resting his large hand over-top of it to keep it closed and out of her view. His eyes then move to the ‘offered’ glass of whiskey. His gaze returns to her and he says sternly in a heavy accent, “I don’t drink. What is it you want?”

Adrian & Sami

Upon hearing Sami offer himself up as a contestant, a pleased smile crosses Yustus’ face. He waves Sami on up to the front, beckoning him over to where he stands. “Alright, alright, alright…” Yustus says in an encouraging manner. “We have ourselves a contestant folks. Give him a round of applause,” the ‘ringmaster’ of this little show says. “Why don’t you come up here and introduce yourselves to these good people. Let ‘em know who you are and where you come from,” Yustus says, welcoming Sami to the microphone he still holds in his right hand while opening up his left arm as if to bring Sami in for a side-hug.

Orson

If one is searching for scalpers, you could spit, hit one and probably touch a few more with its splatter. The first one Orson comes upon is a man of slightly smaller than average height – about five foot six- and not much more than a bag of bones in physique. He has light brown hair which is balding on the crown of his head, and – seemingly unfairly – a thick beard. His brown eyes are a bit beady on his face, separate by a large, broad nose. “Tickets here!” he shouts out from his corner on a main thoroughfare. “Buying and selling! I got ‘em all. Where ever you want to sit, Ole Petey can make it happen!”

Space Lawyer

2016-08-31, 07:08 PM

Giant whines and puts his ears down. Adrian scratches him on the top of his head. "Don't worry boy. You don't like spicy food anyways, and it doesn't like you either. 'Bout ran everyone off the ship last time you ate something with a bit of pepper in it."

DoctorFaust

2016-09-01, 03:18 AM

Sami mounts the stage with a small hop and gives the crowd a friendly wave. "Name's Steve," he says into the proffered microphone. "From Verbena originally, but I don't think I've actually been that way in a number of years now. And very pleased to be in your fair city, with what looks to be some bang-up chilli."

Old Overholt

2016-09-04, 02:24 PM

Adrian & Sami

"Let's give it up for Steve, shall we folks?" Yustus says, looking towards the crowd as he brings his other hand up, lifting some invisible object towards the sky as some silent cue for applause. The crowd willingly obliges, giving Sami a lukewarm round of clapping as Yustus ushers him over to a free chair at the end of the table.

When Sami has been directed towards his seat, Yutus comes back to stand in front of the crowd as the other contestants settle in. There is of course the reigning champion, Margaery Xiao, but there looks to be some fierce competition mixed in with a few regulars. A large man, just short of seven feet tall, sits off to Margaery's right hand side. By all appearances, the man could not only eat an elephant, but could pass for one too. There's also a rather rotund chap sitting on the opposite end of the table from Sami. He's wide enough that he's having to extend a tree-trunk like leg off to the side of the table as he leans on it a bit. He's balding on the top of his head, but long black curls hang down around the sides.

"Now you all know how this works... We have three bowls of chili to get through, each one hotter than the one before. The first two to get through the first two bowls of chili the fastest will compete against one another on the final bowl, made with McAffere's own 'Fiery Fang' pepper!" There's a squeal of delight from the crowd at the mention of the pepper and some nervous chuckles to boot. At that time, a group of helpers brings out the first bowl of chili, setting one in front of each of the contestants as well as a spoon, a napkin, and a glass of water. From the looks of it, it's a meaty chili with a tri-mixture of beans added in. There a bits and pieces of onion and pepper in it, but their color has been dyed out by the brown-maroon sheen to the mix. There's no steam rising off it, but it does give off a sense of warmth meaning it's been allowed to cool just a little.

"Contestants, at your ready!" Yustus says, once everyone has their bowl. "Now when I ring this here gong, y'all get to eatin', you here?" Slowly ambling over to an oversized, decorative gong, Yustus looks back to the table, makes a fist, draws his hand back, and...

GONG!

Go ahead and give me two rolls of Vitality + Willpower with one roll regular and one at a -1.

Space Lawyer

2016-09-07, 09:17 AM

Adrian, despite his natural inclination towards reservedness, lets out a small whooping cheer for Sami. From the looks of things, the man would need all the encouragement and luck he could get. The tiny girl was apparently a prodigious eater, despite appearances, and the two giant men looked as though they'd have no trouble consuming anything set in front of them. If Adrian had a better trust in his own luck, he'd sabotage the competition somehow, ensuring a victory for his crewmate. Without time to plan and prepare though, that would be risky. It would be better to just let things play out.

DoctorFaust

2016-09-07, 09:47 AM

Sami waves in reply to Adrian, gazing down at the plate of food, and dives right in to eating as the gong sounds.

Old Overholt

2016-09-07, 01:40 PM

Adrian & Sami

With the sound of the ceremonial gong, the competitors launch into their bowls of chili. At first, the field of competitors seem to outmatch Sami. Bite for bite, Margaery and the noticeably overweight individual at the opposite end of the table are shoveling down their first bowl without any trouble. The enormous man next to Margaery appears to have been oversold, at least on appearance sake, eating rather slowly compared to the rest of the individuals (even if they are big bites). He's just not quick enough to stay up with the pack. The chili itself is nothing remarkable - it barely registers as 'spicy' and is what you might expect to find in any home as a cheap, affordable, and filling meal.

By the time the second bowls arrive, Sami will notice that the heat is noticeably more present. It's a smoky heat that lingers in the back of the throat. The meat in this chili appears to be more of the brisket variety and a little tougher to chew. To make up for the chewiness, there aren't any beans - just chunks of tomato and pepper. As Sami eats, he can feel beads of sweat forming on his brow. His body knows that this is spicy chili, but it's not painful.

Adrian can see that the chili isn't causing any problems for Sami compared to the rest of the competitors, who can't seem to adjust to the change in texture. Sami continues to inhale the second bowl of chili while others are having to stop, chew, swallow water, breath, and then get back to eating. Margaery slowly seems to find her groove, but it seems to be too little, too late... Sami is the first to finish!

Impressive! You make it to the finals - I'll need one more Vitality + Willpower roll, but at a -2. Plus, as a bonus, I'm adding 1 Plot Point to your sheet for winning the prelims. You and Adrian can go ahead and pose reacting to finishing first.

DoctorFaust

2016-09-09, 06:59 AM

Having somehow managed to force his way through the second bowl of chilli, Sami leans back to take a well-deserved deep swig of water. As he looks around to see who the winner is, he discovers that, much to his amazement, he is, and lets out a small cry of elation.

However, his excitement is short-lived, as he quickly recalls that a third, even spicier bowl awaits him, and within the minute has been placed in front of a bowl that looks like it comes from hell itself forcing him to, once again, wage war against his stomach.

6+7-2=11 total

Space Lawyer

2016-09-09, 08:43 AM

Adrian's cheer actually gets to normal levels as Sami surges ahead. Giant whines a bit at the noise, as well as clearly being disappointed in not being allowed to partake. "Hey boy , why don't we go do something interesting? That chili smells real food, yeah? How about we go find the recipe for it. Might be hard to do with just some protein paste, but if we put enough spice in it, I'm sure we can make it work." Adrian and Giant head around back, looking for cooking area. . . and potentially a few things to liberate.

Perception, to find things like cooks, recipes, or other fun stuff: Alertness + Perception/Sight, modified by Nature Lover (we're outdoors)
14
General stealthiness, in case something needs to go missing: Agility + Covert/Stealth, modified by In Plain Sight
5
Giant's nose
15

Q'telun

2016-09-13, 02:37 AM

Lance slams back his the last of his second glass, and starts filling his third. Hera. Hera. Always gorram Hera. He eyes the half empty glass in his hand, rife with contemplation. He raises his free hand to signal the harried waitress. When she approaches, he smiles as he says, "Shao Jeh, I don't suppose you've got a menu of some sort? Last time I was out this way, the dumplings xīngjì were delicious, but I can't remember what they were called."

Old Overholt

2016-09-14, 01:34 PM

Sami

A great deal of fanfare is involved as the preliminary round is completed and two victors emerge: Margaery Xiao and the new comer, Sami/Steve. There’s some mild astonishment from the crowd at Sami’s win, probably figuring that some of the more ‘able bodied’ contestants would have come out on top. Regardless, Yustus seems delighted with the outcome. As stage hands help some of the contestants off stage and begin cleaning up the spots, the local emcee walks up to Sami and holds out his hand, encouraging him to move towards the center of the table next to Margaery.

As he does so, Yustus looks to the crowd with his lips forming the shape of an ‘O’ – like some giant hillbilly fish. “Ho! Ho! Ho folks! We got ourselves a ‘ringer’,” he jokes, getting a little touch-feely as he tries to pat Sami/Steve on the back and rub his shoulder. Meanwhile, Margaery looks none too pleased with Sami’s emergence on the scene and his threat to her crown, giving him a cold stare before taking a sip of water. She doesn’t say anything though – letting her glare do the talking. You – are – going – down.

“Last bowl everyone! Winner takes all!” Yustus shouts over the microphone, causing the crowd to applause the loudest they’ve done so far – maybe ready for this little show to be over with. And at that, two helpers bring out two cups of water for each Margaery and Sami as well as wooden bowls filled with a yellow-brown chili. “Hope y’all filled out your wills, cause this might just put you under,” Yustus warns the competitors with a smile. “On the gong, now… ready? 1… 2… 3…” Yustus says, jogging over to the gong before giving it a solid pound from his fist.

The chili itself has a rather aromatic scent to it: a mixture of peppers, spices and… is that beer? The scent, however, is light years more pleasant than the taste. It’s like eating liquid fire, leaving a smoky taste in Sami’s throat and lava in his belly. It’s damn near excruciating. Why would anyone ever eat this? Margaery doesn’t seem to be fairing very well: alternating between bites, chugging of water, and wiping her eyes clear of tears.

Adrian

With the stage hands busy trying to clear everything away and focused on setting up for the last round, Adrian and Giant have a relatively easy time sneaking ‘behind the scenes’. The kitchen is an uncovered, outside barbecue of sorts – a few open flames cooking kettles of chili with an assortment of crates around for storing utensils, equipment, and other dry goods.

Adrian notices a crate marked ‘Liesmans’, a Hera-famous chain of stores that deals in fine spirits and delicacies. It’s probably Yustus’ or someone else’s personal stash to enjoy later on in the evening.

Meanwhile, Giant ‘alerts’ to another crate near one of the stoves. His ears perking, his right front paw scratching at the ground, his tail wagging excited - Adrian will know he’s picked up on something with flavor beyond regularly vegetables and filler foods. This has to be something savory to get Giant this excited.

Lance

The waitress that had served Lucas earlier seems delighted that he’s called her over again, walking up to him with a warm smile and her hands clasped just below her midsection. She listens intently to his inquiry and then nods her head before quickly saying, “The Phoenix Rolls? Yeah, we have those, love. You want a plate or you want the menu?” She reaches around to her backside, pulling out a slim piece of cardstock from her apron’s waistband – a menu that’s seen more than a few nights in someone’s grubby hands.

DoctorFaust

2016-09-16, 08:25 AM

Sami throws himself whole-heartedly into the bowl, doing his best to tear through it as quickly as possible to get this hell over with.

Space Lawyer

2016-09-16, 12:03 PM

Adrian leaves the Liesmans crate alone for now. Something from there could only cause a stir if it went missing. Plus, the stuff that came out of the engine distillery was good enough; it certainly got the job done, if nothing else.

Instead, he goes for the crate Giant picked out. There could be something really excellent in there, something to keep the crew happy. Might even be able to attract a few more hands with a reputation for good food.

Old Overholt

2016-09-19, 09:13 PM

Sami

Miraculously, Sami is able to make his way through half the bowl before the gong is rung. He's about sweated through his clothes with the heat of the chili - a painful, unenjoyable experience (except for the thrill of competition). It's bound to be even less enjoyable later on.

Margaery has not fared as well, having only taken enough bites to make it about a third of the way through her portion. Her face is bright red and she seems to be almost in a daze when the challenge has ended, hovering over her bowl and looking like she's about to lose the contents of her stomach.

"WE HAVE A WINN-AH!" Yustus shouts after taking a quick glance in the bowls, his arm extending towards Sami. The pudgy man in the suit looks absolutely thrilled with the outcome of the festivities and the crowd appears equally shocked and amused, having expected the local favorite to take home the win. Applause, murmur, applause.

"As promised, twenty-five platinum..." Yustus begins to say, waving over one of his helpers, who brings the man an envelope. "... and as a special prize, four free lower level tickets to tomorrow's semi-finals, courtesy of Liesman's Spirits and Delicacies. It's no lie Liesman's has the best around!" With that said, the envelope is turned over to Sami with a broad smile.

"HRRRRRR!" Margaery has found herself a bucket and relieved herself of the devil chili.

By the way - another spectacular win, another plot point for you!

Adrian

The crate Giant sniffed out is a small treasure trove of delights - at least for folk who spend a great deal of time in The Black or the Rim. Some of the contents already appear to have been picked through, but packed with dry ice, Adrian and Giant find two porterhouse steaks, some fresh leeks, a large package of blueberries, and a block of white cheddar.

DoctorFaust

2016-09-21, 10:44 AM

Sami hauls himself up to Yustus to take the envelope, weakly raises his arm in triumph, and then dashes to a bucket beside Margaery's to begin to vomit spectacularly.

Space Lawyer

2016-09-21, 01:19 PM

Adrian looks around for anyone observing the pair, then helps himself to the contents of the crate. It was mighty uncomfortable to have two near-frozen slabs of meat tucked under his shirt, but the thought of some good steak made it worthwhile. The crew was certainly going to be eating well tonight.

Old Overholt

2016-09-21, 09:28 PM

Adrian

As Adrian loaded himself up with the contents of the crates, a voice from behind him poke up. It was the voice of a younger man, probably a teenager - one of the ones that was helping Yustus run the event. "Hey you!" he shouts out, trying to sound bold. "What do you think you're doing? Get away from there!" he adds, trying to display a bit of authority.

Should Adrian turn about to look at him, he's a scrawny kid - maybe weighing a hundred and sixty pounds - with ear length brown hair and freckled cheeks. He's tall too, with large hands suitable for a farm hand. A lot of the details of his face are obscured with the darkness, only odd rays of light from other tents and sources providing random bits of illumination here and there. They might also be doing a similar trick for Adrian.

Q'telun

2016-09-22, 02:07 AM

"A plate of that'll be just fine, Shaoh Jeh." Lance glances over the crowd without moving his head. "How much'll I owe you?"

Old Overholt

2016-09-23, 10:44 AM

Lance

"Two platinum, love," the waitress responds with a smile. It's a steep price when you consider the meals most spacers ingest on a regular basis, but a reasonable price for food that doesn't come from a can or tube. Walking away without yet taking his money, the waitress goes to place his order with the kitchen. The dumplings themselves don't take long to come out - maybe about five minutes. The same waitress brings the wooden bowl of three steamed dumplings to Lance, setting them down almost ceremoniously before leaving to take care of other patrons. It's a wonder she works in a place like this - she could do so much better. But to each his or her own, right?

The dumplings are as Lance recalls - a pasty, doughy dumpling that's packed with a mildly spicy and savory pork mixture. By themselves, the dumplings are not quite a full meal, but certainly enough to send someone on their way feeling satisfied, if not craving more. Lance could easily eat another plate or two and not regret it (although his wallet might).

Space Lawyer

2016-09-24, 04:48 PM

Adrian looks around, thinking, looking for an escape. He tries to come up with an excuse, but is unable to come up with anything that sounds remotely convinving. "I, uh, yeah, getting gone." He places the last bit in his pockets and makes a quick departure. As soon as he can, he sprints away from the scene of the crime, and looks for another shadowed place to hide in case anybody comes looking.

Athletics: [roll0] + [roll1]
Stealth: [roll2] + [roll3]

Old Overholt

2016-09-25, 09:50 PM

Adrian

"Hey! Stop!" The young man's voice shoots up into an octave his vocal chords aren't necessarily ready to handle, causing his tone to crack and lose any sense of authority. Adrian can hear him giving chase and while his speed won't allow him to gain distance, his ability to move in and out of the crowd does help him put a little distance between them... but he can continue to hear those footsteps... people being pushed aside and making their displeasure known... *THUD-THUD-THUD*. This kid is tenacious, that's for sure. But he's a kid, right?

Old Overholt

2016-09-28, 12:07 PM

Adrian

What Adrian lacks in speed, he makes up for in a keen sense of awareness. Keeping members of the crowd, tents, and other objects between them, he's able to gain an advantage of his pursuer, minimizing the young kid's speed and tenacity. Eventually, Adrian finds a sharp turn near a stack of wooden pallets and drums to double back behind the kid, leaving him to chase a ghost in the sea of drunks, party-goers, and other folks enjoying the festivities before the big game. The man and man’s best friend can make their way safely back to their ship, having avoided any unpleasantness for the evening.

A Plot Point for Gryffin-... Adrian!

Adrian, Sami, Sam, and Lance

After everyone has gathered back on the ship, there was some discussion over Sami’s prize (and some gentle ribbing about the somewhat nauseated feeling he’s overcome with given the peppers he ingested). It’s agreed that the group will take a little rest and relaxation to enjoy the match tomorrow, especially given the quality seats that would have had a hard time justifying given their present economic situation. Maybe they’ll be able to hobnob with a few of the other fans to drum up some business.

… THE NEXT DAY …

The quartet finds themselves standing outside the stadium, waiting in line with a long file of fans waiting to get to their seats. The weather is absolutely gorgeous – a tolerable eighty degrees with a smattering of clouds in the sky to provide occasional shade. Thankfully, they’re not having to wait in general admission to get in – sitting on the lower deck has its advantages with more courteous personnel assisting people with getting in and where they need to go.

Once inside the gates, there are a variety of vendor providing a plethora of food choices. The aromas of all the foods waft through the air, enticing fans to pig out while they’re watching the match. For Sami, however, it’s not sitting well. The peppers in his system have left him feeling “unsettled” as they reek havoc on his insides, causing the sensation that a black hole has formed at the pit of his stomach.

The group will also notice a few betting stands placed strategically near the entrances to the stands. These guarded facilities are only big enough for two people to sit inside comfortable while digital screens place the latest odds for the game and the various wagers they’re willing to accept. There are few individuals who apparently feel lucky, but most people walk on by.

Sofia

Virat Cantu is a young man that has been thrust into the spotlight – at least as far as the Rim planets are concerned. Heavy expectations have been placed on his shoulders as the hopes, joys, and finances of so many rest in him carrying the Narwhals to victory. People are already aligning themselves with him as potential managers, business partners, investors, and counselors. His coach, knowing the stress he must be under, as probably smartly contacted a group that can help him more than most could in this situation… a Companion House.

Sofia elected to work with Virat – her reasons known only to her, coming to his aid at the request of the coaching staff, who were rather blunt with her as far as their expectations. “Whatever it takes,” was the gist of their insistence with her, but they were wise enough to state nothing specific, fearing they might insult her and put themselves back in the position they were before.

Virat was a sweet, quiet, shy young man – a typical of some of the sports stars. He was an individual focused solely on perfecting his skill as a bowler. He was confident, yet mindful of his limitations. He was perceptive and preoccupied. He was someone that just needed a gentle, guiding hand to assure him the ‘Verse was not going to explode if things didn’t go his way.

It was game day and Sofia had uninterrupted access to Virat in the locker room of stadium, the two sectioned off in a private room – an office actually that the coach had given up for his star player to prepare himself for the game. Virat has asked Sofia to lead him through a meditation to clear his mind.

whoiam

2016-09-28, 01:45 PM

Sofia's motivations for taking on the job weren't that strange, really. Companions had duties to the guild. Screening new clients for the registry was the relevant one, here. Virat was going to be a star - the Companion's Guild could see it just as clearly as everyone else - and that made him a potentially lucrative client for the years to come.

That and she knew her Dad would *hate* her taking this job. Not that he'd have any problems with her career - after all, it was the same career her mother had taken - but that she was going to service a cricketer who didn't play for a Londinum side? Unforgiveable!

....She probably wouldn't tell him.

Anyway, on to work. This would have usually started with a nice, relaxed tea ceremony, to set the proper tone. Officially, anyway. Sofia had long suspected the actual reason was 'we're on the clock here, the slower you pour that tea, the more profit we make!'.

Still, it was a big day for the 'poor' man, so her response was a surprisingly roguish smile as she rooted about in her bag'o'tricks. (I.e. where the tea things were. Plus some sundries. And a change of clothes.... y'know, just in case.) "If you promise not to tell we skipped the ceremony, then I think I can... accommodate... that request..."

Sofia withdrew two items from the bag. A small vial of massage oil, and a single scented candle. The candle was placed on a table, and quickly lit. Finally, she gave Virat his instructions: "Please, remove your top. Then sit down, cross-legged, facing the candle. All you need to do is concentrate on three things, as long as you can: My voice, my fingers, and the flame of the candle."

DoctorFaust

2016-09-28, 05:46 PM

Sami throws himself down in his chair, looking noticeably green around the gills. "Hey, Lance", he says, pulling out a few of the platinum he won. "If you're going to drink, get me a beer as well, would you?"

AvatarVecna

2016-09-28, 08:07 PM

Sam wasn't a fan of not bein' allowed his firearms, but it was necessary if he was gonna keep an eye on the crew. He cast a hairy eyeball around the stands (and received a few of his own from security), but he didn't see anything warranting his attention...yet...

Space Lawyer

2016-09-30, 10:44 AM

Giant lets out a pitiful whine as Adrian leaves him at the gate. "Hush, you. I didn't make you stay on the ship like I could've. If you're going to complain about it, just go back there."

Adrian joins up with the rest of the crew. "Now then, how're we lookin' for the day? Any good bets to be made on the field or the stands?"

Old Overholt

2016-09-30, 10:35 PM

Sami, Adrian, Sam, and Lance

Yustus did not oversell the surprise tickets. While they're not exactly box seats, they are lower level with a three-quarters view of the pitch. They're about fifteen rows back from the field with a fantastic view - anyone with average eyesight can make out the basic details of just about everyone on the field. There are a handful of vendors walking around with snacks and refreshments, calling out the 'deals' they offer, which are anything but.

Most of the crowd has found their way to their seats while the players are out on the fields doing warm-up drills. The section in which the four have found themselves is fairly packed, most of the crowd supporting the Bellerophon Bombers in their gold and black gear. Soon enough, the anthem of the Alliance begins to play over the loudspeakers, signalling that the game is about to begin soon.

Sami can feel an unsettling pressure building up in the pit of his stomach. A beer doesn't seem like it's going to keep him settled.

Sofia

Virat accepts the massage, falling into a lucid state of relaxation. Sofia is able to get through most of her routine before there is a knock at the door and a stern, older man calls out without opening the door, "Time's up! Golden boy needs to get his gear on!" Sofia can instantly feel the relaxation she has brought about being ripped away from Virat, his body tensing - the woman feeling him already starting to pull away in strict obedience to the coach's order.

whoiam

2016-10-02, 01:05 PM

As Virat began to rise, Sofia gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. Then whispered a few words into his ear: "Ping Ming - Joo How Rin." There wasn't really time for long speeches, after all, but she'd have felt bad letting him leave without a little actual encouragement.

When he had gone, she'd pack up her things and go looking for the coach. While she'd made an exception for this booking, if he wanted to hire companions regularly, he'd still need to be on the registry. She'd leave the paperwork with his coach. And see if there were any spare tickets hanging around... She hadn't been on-world long enough to get a client to take her here, after all, or else she wouldn't have been free to help Virat...

DoctorFaust

2016-10-03, 05:08 PM

"You know what, scratch that. Did anyone see bathrooms on the way in?"

Space Lawyer

2016-10-04, 09:27 AM

"Look for where the people of quality are, then go the other way. Ain't likely for 'em to be anywhere they could offend some dainty noses."

Adrian was actually feeling a bit of excitement for this game. It wasn't his game or his team, but sport was sport. Plus, the buzz of the live crowd was infectious. This was promising be an interesting few hours no matter what.

Old Overholt

2016-10-04, 10:24 PM

Adrian

The buzz of the crowd is certainly catchy. There's excitement and anticipation in the air. Lots of folks are talking statistics, giving their predictions, and just marveling at the spectacle of the 'Verse Cup. Highlights from big games during the regular season play on strategically placed viewscreens, recapping the extraordinary season of the Narwhals. Giant probably would have been a bit freaked out with all the hustle and bustle - not to mention a hindrance in the confined space. He could take solace that his friend was probably lonely, but more comfortable than he would have been coming in.

Sofia

"Xie xie," Virat says in response to Sofia's well-wishes after accepting her kiss. He places his right hand on the side of her left arm, making a physical connection as he looks her directly in the eyes. But he says nothing more, letting the expression of gratitude on his face speak for him before he makes his way out of the office and immediately towards the locker area.

The coach accepts the paperwork offered to him and tosses it over into a pile, making it look unlikely the paperwork will find its way into Virat's hands anytime soon. Admittedly, there are more important events going on. For the rapidly upcoming start to the match, the coach handles Sofia with at least a bit of respect. He hands her a non-descript white envelope, telling here, "We appreciate you accepting this client on such short notice. Here's confirmation the transfer went through and..." The coach clears his throat. "... a little something extra for you. Plus, a pair of tickets for today's game. Maybe seeing you in the stands will keep our boy... 'primed'."

With that, the coach escorts Sofia out of the locker room and points her in the direction of a long hallway that will take her back to the stands where she can find her seat, should she wish to attend the game. Because the locker rooms are nestled away from the public areas, the hallway passes by lots of doors leading to utility areas, storage rooms, and some lesser known facilities.

Sami

The crowds for this semi-final match are putting serious strain on the stadium - from the seating, to the vendors... right down to the facilities. With the excitement of the start of the match, people have rushed to the bathrooms so they won't have to go during the first several innings.

As Sami walks the corridors away from the group's seats, he sees lines coming out the restroom doors. The pressure on his abdomen makes it difficult for him to walk, his body beginning to reject whatever is inside his bowels. It'll only be a matter of minutes before he won't be able to contain himself.

Roaming the halls and corridors, looking for any place he might be able to relieve himself, he turns down the corridor Sofia has been shown onto at the opposite end.

Sofia and Sami

Sofia and Sami are a good distance from one another. They're able to make out the general shapes of each other and able to guess each other's gender, but beyond that, it's hard to tell. As the being to make their way towards one another, two male voices from one of the rooms along the otherwise empty corridor begin to echo.

A snarling, young man says, "The Narwhals' security team is going to be watching him like a hawk! Are you insane?"

A calmer, deeper male voice replies, "Shut up and listen. They're going to be watching him - not his equipment. That's when you spike his water."

whoiam

2016-10-05, 11:29 AM

At times like this, the important thing was not to panic. Not because you were brave, but because the more noise you make, the more likely they are to come investigate. But what do you do while you're trying not to make any noise, while trying not to look like you're making any noise?

Tricky...

Well, if you're Sofia, step one is to pull out a pair of glasses from your bag, and put them on.

Step two appears to be staring blankly into space for a while. (Although it's actually setting her Eyetap Computer to 'record' mode, in case they speak again. It's always nice having evidence, no?).

Step three is the alibi. Sofia leans idly against the corridor wall, opens her envelope to examine her 'little something extra'. And get the ticket out, of course. She'd probably need it eventually.

Q'telun

2016-10-05, 01:23 PM

Lances lounges in the hard seat. "He really got seats to this party through an eatin' contest? What the hell did that man eat?"

Space Lawyer

2016-10-05, 01:46 PM

"Some chili that smelled like it was spiced with Avici itself. Never understood the need to eat something so hot it just ain't pleasant to put in your mouth. Hopefully he makes it back without too much trouble. There'll be some yelping for sure."

DoctorFaust

2016-10-07, 07:06 PM

Still perfectly cognisant of the growing discomfort from his stomach, Sami swears harshly under his breath and then knocks hard on the door to the room. "'Scuse me!" he yells. "This ain't a bathroom, is it?"

Old Overholt

2016-10-10, 12:24 AM

Sofia

The little something extra the manager spoke about is two, one hundred credit notes. Sofia has certainly received more lavish gifts in the past and while this cricket team could have probably put together more, it would have been at the expense of something else given their near backwater-standing as it relates to the Core worlds. While the gesture of 'tipping' may be insulting to some degree, it is a modest 'gift' in light of her relatively spur-of-the-moment services.

Sofia and Sami

The voices inside the bathroom go quiet as Sami bangs on the door, but then the heavier voice tells his compatriot, "Just do what I told you and I'll hand the laundry, ok?" There's no response from the other man - just footsteps echoing in the bathroom as someone approaches the door. A bolt slides as the door is unlocked an a man emerges from within.

He's a stocky gentleman, standing just under six foot tall, with broad shoulders. He's got medium length chestnut hair, but the sides of his head are shaved with what's left on top slicked back. He's go two or three days worth of fuzz growing on his face and square jaw. He's tanned, with a few hints of pink - probably someone who is out in the sun a good bit. His steel blue eyes focus on Sami, examining the man briefly before sweeping his free arm in towards the bathroom. "Of course, chum..." he says with a sarcastic smile, irritated that he's been interrupted by Sami. "... it's all yours."

Sami can see another individual standing in the bathroom - also agitated, but from Sami or his friend its unclear. He's a slender black man and short in stature, maybe around five and a half feet tall. His hair has been twisted into dozens of little locks, each about an inch or two long, giving him a "mop top" sort of look. He has a neatly trimmed goatee around his mouth.

whoiam

2016-10-10, 09:36 AM

A very rudimentary sense of self-preservation suggests to Sofia that now isn't a good time to be seen holding money. The two notes quickly find their way into a pocket.

As for the men... well, she had only gotten a look at (and therefore a recording of) one of them. If she went past the toilets herself, she could get a glance at the other. But then she'd be on the wrong side of them; would it look suspicious if she turned around and headed back afterwards? Hm.

This wasn't the sort of thing they taught young companions. Her entire training on 'etiquette in espionage situations' had been a brief yet firm suggestion that she not get involved in such nonsense...

For now, she busied herself studying her transfer confirmation and tickets. Not quite so busy she didn't have a clear view down the corridor over the top of the papers, though - they weren't a gripping read so much as an alibi, after all.

DoctorFaust

2016-10-14, 11:08 AM

"Ah, no, I'm sorry," Sami says, slowly backing away from the door. "If you two are...busy in there, I can find another one."

Old Overholt

2016-10-16, 04:28 PM

Sami & Sofia

Sami's inquiry of the two men doesn't seem to sit with them well. Their faces get a little more rigid as they steel their jaws. Their bodies puff out a bit as they stand taller. Clearly, they feel insulted or slighted by Sami's comment and what it implies, intentionally or not. "A bit of a smart ass, aren't we?" the stocky bloke says, glaring at Sami as his friend starts to approach the door and join his comrade.

whoiam

2016-10-16, 05:26 PM

Sofia waits until the second man has joined the first at the door (i.e. until she can get a look at his face without having to actually go looking into the toilets for it) before she makes her presence known. Advancing down the (far side of) the corridor, she stops and speaks once she's almost drawn level with the building altercation, pulling her glasses a little down her nose (so she can peer over the top of them) and smiling warmly, looking for all the world like someone who doesn't realise they're probably talking to a pair of criminals.

"Is there something wrong, gentlemen? Don't tell me, opposing fans, right? Well, you'd better hurry back to the stands, the players are just getting their pads on for the first innings. There'll be plenty of time to... 'G'en Ho Tze Bi Dio se'... in a bar afterwards, Jahn?"

Skill rolls! My very first die rolls in the Serenity RPG :smallsmile: Let's see how well I read the book...

As I understand it, Sofia can probably use 'Allure' and 'Sweet and Cheerful' on her attempt to persuade the others not to make a scene, so they've been included on both the rolls below.

+ [roll1] - Hide the fact she's aware this is more than a 'lively meeting of sports fans'.
[roll2] + [roll="Influence (Persuasion)"]1d12+1d2 - convince the men to move on (whether to the stands, or just out of the way to make it look like they've gone to watch the game).