As soon as the woman who had offered assistance stepped away and Daphne was off the ground, Harper took a moment to lean in a bit and speak with lowered voice, even as the table erupted with mirth, "For what it's worth, coming from me - I'm sorry this happened." In truth, he was. But even with his fabricated history, Harper was once an Alliance officer. Some things didn't fly with polished commanders. He wasn't sure if Anisa was particularly polished, persay. The Fleet was polished. Hell, Captain Quinn was polished. Anisa was no-nonsense, certainly. Maybe not polished in the strictest sense of the word, but she was pretty strict. Not someone to mess with, at the very least. A line had been crossed, and it wasn't the first time. "Hey, I'll get you another drink before supper shows up, okay?" It was a polite gesture perhaps, though he knew it ultimately would not make up for her contract being terminated a moment ago.
Then something truly odd happened: The woman who was hanging around them started speaking to the Captain. Not just speaking, but confessing. Harper was not present for the dram that unfolded in the Retribution's cargo hold, nor the chase afterward. He did hear about it. And it was a cause of some concern for him when he did. Suffice it to say, this woman did not look like Alliance. She didn't carry herself like Alliance. And he was pretty sure that, if it came down to it, they could set her down into a warm, quiet hole someplace covered in lime and topsoil without the Alliance batting an eyelash about it. So there was a Plan B. Excellent. He couldn't wait to hear more.
Foy Coiffeur
Location: Newhope - Lady Luck Skills: N/A
A smile spread across Foy's face as his good, dear friend Jahosafat spoke. Like himself, the ebon gentleman has a particular proclivity for the appropriate use of words to suit both his Farradayan palate of verbiage and get his point across in a manner that was easily digestible by the Esteemed Mr. Coiffeur. "Oh indeed, my dashingly insightful sir. It is truly a parallel not too horribly unlike the works of the nigh legendary Dame Anthropologist studying the comings and goings of the lesser able; though whilst her field of social inquiry lay scattered about the tree-climbing throwers of fecalate, we have..." he gave it a half moment to consider the best manner to continue his thought before shrugging it off. "Well sir, I suppose in ways it is not too horribly dissimilar; and thus I concur with the findings of my honored colleague, which would be yourself, without doubt."
Were he to look at the situation objectively, Foy might have the good sense to realize that, if his situation progressed much further, he might find himself with much more in common with his new companions. Even so, he was a man of breeding, education, and refinement. Dirt poor (perish the thought!), he would likely still think highly of himself in comparison to others. Well, many others. Foy recognized peers, like the one with whom he spoke presently.
"Further, Josie old boy, I find that I am in situational accord with your suggestion of immediate and appropriate festivities concerning the relocation and Grand Reopening of the Gentleman's Parlour mere mortals refer to with the otherwise pedestrian though terribly clever title of "The Foy-er". A reverent yet raucous occasion, if ever there was one!" A flick of his hand brought his derringer back into its quick release holster as a new idea came to mind, this one possibly more appropriate to the atmosphere he hoped to generate with the help of his childhood friend. "Indubitably, that is the very one, regarding both your choice of music and the status of the woman below. But given your phenomenal sense of propriety and accuracy of celebratory necessities for this most auspicious of occasions..."
When Anisa started laughing, she had to suppress the urge to roll her eyes. Something was not quite right about it, but she didn't say anything. After everything that had just happened in the span of a few minutes, it made her feel a little better that the Captain wasn't trying to kill anyone anymore. At least at the moment anyway. When Jackie spoke up about Fitz, Daphne looked over at her. Maybe the woman wasn't all that bad, and it would help her try and get Fitz on board. The other woman, the stranger who had offered her a hand, she had no idea what to make of her. Clearly someone at the table knew her based on her words, and it was a little strange seeing her just start talking to Anisa after that big commotion.
When Harper spoke to her, that was definitely not something she had expected. He had no reason to be nice to her in anyway, but he was and it was unexpected. "I am too," she replied, looking back at the table. "I could really use another drink, or two". Daphne didn't really care much about what her sister would possibly say about anything about drinking. After what just happened, she could really use the distraction.
"I-I have a doctorate in engineering - pr-proficient in physical sciences, sensors, weapons en-eng, mechanics, c-communications, c-computers, explosives, stardrive engineering, e-e-electronic engineering, physics, ch-chemistry, and electronics," Fitz summarized for Jackie. He blushed a bit, realizing how pretentious the list of skills may have made him appear. But those were the skills he had acquired at the University of Osiris - the skills that he used as an engineer. And while he wasn't one to brag about himself intentionally, he was in the top of his class. Of course, he never was nearly as brilliant as his sister. She made him seem average by comparison.
"I also h-have a game with me...B-bought it at the toy store. It's vintage. It-it's called Clue..." Fitz added, as if that was another selling point. However, his words were directed to Jackie at all times. He wasn't applying for a job on Anisa's ship - he was letting his friend know just what he brought to the table, beyond stutters. At this point, Fitz wasn't even certain if he wanted to join Anisa's crew. He didn't know much of the situation that had been going down, but Anisa had pulled a gun on an employee. He hadn't experienced anything like that before and he didn't even know if that was normal.
Dorothy didn't spot Atticus anywhere, yet she found a distraction all the same. The intruder from before - the woman who had offered to help Daphne - was speaking to Anisa, pleading her case. She went onto their ship in search of information, then. The vessel was a stolen Alliance ship, allowing Dorothy to see some reason behind it. However, she still couldn't be sure if Mei was a person she could trust. While she respected those who turned over new leaves and whatnot, she didn't know anything about the stranger.
However, she was also keeping an eye on Anisa. Her behavior was becoming increasingly erratic. With the alcohol going through Anisa's system, she had already drawn a weapon on Daphne. Who's to say she'd have any qualms about putting a bullet in the intruder's head to wrap things up neatly? And the incessant cackling, ominous of a green haired clown from the Earth that Was, worried her. Jackson's death was hitting Anisa hard and Dorothy couldn't help but feel that she was watching Anisa spiral.
"That is her, Cap," Dorothy confirmed, her voice a bit hoarse. "She gave the barber and I the slip - impressive with a shot knee."
Location: Lady Luck: Table Main Room Skills: Jack-Of-All, Recruiting
Anisa did have to admit that she kind of liked the idea of the woman sitting across from her joining the ships crew. The captain didn't know what she would do or if she could handle herself but one thing was for sure. She didn't lose her cool when things were going down. It wasn't like she was shut down like Daphne. The girl had just had a bullet nearly blow her brains out and she didn't flinch. That wasn't nerves of steel, that was straight out denial or just being utterly oblivious to what was going on around and refusing to react accordingly. Either way, it let Anisa know that firing her and removing her as pilot had been the right choice. She didn't need someone like that in the drivers seat of her ship. That though would mean more work for herself but in the end better than waiting for the moment when Daphne finally did crack and it end up being the end for all of her crew.
Then Jackie mentioned that her and Fitz were a team and they came as as package. That put Anisa in a bit of a bind. She couldn't hire Fitz, even if he was the best damned engineer in the 'Verse because of Daphne. She had ended all possibilities of that. Then again if Daphne was killed or Fitz was... That would solve a lot of problems. Anisa picked up her drink as the waitress refilled it and downed it quickly. The fact the thought had gone through her head didn't even seem to phase her. It wasn't like she hadn't imagined killing everyone on her crew at least once. Well not Dorothy but she was different. Hell she had even envisioned flushing Jackson out of an airlock before when he pissed her off. "Yeah, well the little shÇŽzi there kind of nixed that even if he were interested. Can't hire the man on principle now," Anisa said as she glanced towards Daphne out of the corner of her eye. A smirk curling at the corner of her mouth. She was just about to say something more when suddenly someone else decided to speak up.
Well that was different. Woman showed up, was on her ship, had been shot and chased down by her crew, got away, and now was pleading her case. "Did someone slip shit into my whiskey?" she asked as she turned her shot glass over and put it on the table as the waitress started bringing over the food. Leaning over at the waist and resting her palm on her knee she looked the woman over, the gun just within reach on the table. "Is that so?" she said in more of a statement than an actual question before she looked over towards Dorothy for confirmation.
"Yeah it is. Seems we could use some work on the security of the ship," Anisa said as she righted herself and looked back at Mei. "You, I will offer a job. Have a seat." The woman may have snuck onto the ship and didn't have an ounce of her that Anisa felt she could trust but she wasn't tainted goods in the captains mind. In fact she might be able to teach her crew a thing or two. Anyways, if she did stab them in the back, she would see it coming this time and the airlock was always an option. Anisa hadn't been paying attention to what Fitz had said unfortunately but she had been distracted by Mei pleading her case.
Jackie leaned her chair back as Captain Ballcruncher spoke. Seemed she was chewing on the idea of her joining, but not so much for Fitz. The damn broad on the ground ruined things for him, it seemed. Had Captain Ballcruncher not already publicly embarrassed the poor girl, she would have done so herself.
Before Jackie could plead Fitz's case (as the poor boy was doing a piss poor job of doing so himself) some random woman came over pleading her case. Not only that, but Captain Ballcruncher bought it and offered her a chair! Jackie had to take a deep breath. This was getting interesting.
Still, she was bored of this planet and anything would be more fun than sitting here day in and out, waiting for some schmuck to come around that she could con and get passage off. Plus, she was sure the authorities would be on her sooner than later. "Well, Captain my Captain, that's a shame. See, I believe in Fitz's potential. Even if you had a whole squadron of excellent engineers, how many of them could say they have the heart this one has? I'd take one engineer eager to prove himself over 10 qualified, if a bit too stodgy, anyday. Given what I see of your crew, I think you'd agree. I'm ready, but as I said, I need to make sure this one doesn't get scammed again. And worse comes to worse, could always crush his balls with your heels. Which, might I say, are damn nice!"
Mei Qiáo
Location: Newhope - Lady Luck Skills: None at this time
Mei was surprised that when she looked up she didn't see a gun pointing at her. Instead, she was offered a seat at the table and a chance to talk. Not one to look a gift horse in the mouth, Mei stood up and bowed, "Thank you." Mei took the seat offered and waited for her chance to speak as the blonde woman spoke on and on and on. Once she stopped, Mei gave herself a minute before she spoke up.
"I will not squander this opportunity you gave me, but I feel I should lay it all out before I accept a job and you consider offering me one. I am a bounty hunter by trade, and still have some contracts I am obligated to see out. The biggest one is the one I desired information on. If you would like, I would be happy to disclose this in private, but there are too many ear around here. I will, however, be a blade and a gun if you need one." Mei didn't expect to land a job, but she wasn't about to say no. Not only would this be a step closer to finding what she needed, but it would get her off this planet.
"Fascinating is it not? Oh such mirth I will find in this new adventure of ours my fellow Farradayan. To watch an observation such as this up close, it will be truly illuminating. Perhaps it will give me more insight into our flesh eater counter parts for they are more alike than we," he mused aloud before running his thumb along the length of his jaw. Turning his head towards Foy he shook his head and waved with his hand once again. "I could never. Tis the grand opening of your establishment and you are the one that must claim a pair of Madisons. I insist, after you good sir."
"Oh, I most certainly concur, Josie old boy. Truly an endeavor that rings solidly of, and you have aptly described, both illumination and fascination. Although to gift the situation with sincerity due, my pursuits are somewhat less intellectual than your own, focusing more toward the pursuit of cooperative enterprise. Plans upon meticulous plans, you understand, my good sir." Foy placed his hand upon Jahosafat's shoulder, motioning toward the stairs with his other. "And yet, I did not have the good sense nor initiative to suggest this most obvious occasion for celebration. I insist: After you."
Lifting his arm and wrapping it upward, Jahosafat nearly mirrored his dear friends action and placed his own hand upon Foys shoulder. His grin broad and bright as he gave another sweeping motion with his arm; a flair of the hand and even a bit of spirit fingers at the tips. "Ahh but it is the pursuits of enterprise that give the pursuits of intellect true meaning my partner in perversion. So I must insist: After you."
Foy heartily patted Jahosafat's hand, then held it to his shoulder in a manner not dissimilar to an impromptu handshake. Both now perched upon his shoulder, he reasserted his motion toward the stairs but embellished it with a grand wave, rolling his wrist with a flourish at the end. "My most respectable sir, I shan't be comfortable taking position in front of you, unless such was a setting of skirmish or to shield you from other potential harm." He cleared his throat, "I must re-assert my insistence, old friend: After you."
"Oh dear heavens and I could never take a position where as I were to descend from this perch above the nethers before you my lovely chap. Would be ill-fitting of my respect towards the name Coiffeur! I would be no better than a Hur Bao Duhn Sah Gwa. Could not dare have it as such. I must insist; After you," the ebony doctor stated with mirth in his voice as he removed his hat and added it to the flourish bow to his compatriot.
The dapper Gentleman Barber removed his immaculate felt bowler hat - his second favorite hat in his collection of fine headwear - and lightly gripped either side as he held it over his heart. A look of mild dejection softened his visage as he spoke. "My benevolent and lettered individual, the name of Coiffeur retains respect purely by the manner in which it reciprocates said respect amongst our peers. And our money, but that is altogether a different dialogue." Foy took a half-step backward, bowing his head and motioning toward the stairs with his hat, "I implore you, dear friend: After you."
Jahosafat burst into a jovial bought of utter chortling as he twirled his hat along the end of his fingers before letting it roll up his hand slightly. "I do declare we are at an impasse my fine fellow. Shall we descend then from the heights above those who are lower than us in the only manner that is befitting two gentleman of such equal breeding, wealth, and dapperness? Together!"
Foy's eyes brightened at the potential of this new idea. He spun his bowler between his fingers in front of himself in a manner that hinted at consideration. "I say old chum, there may be merit in the concept. If nothing else, it shall be the first in a grand display that will reach pitched crescendo in the structured motions of a proper Farradayan rug-cut!" He raised an eyebrow, looking to his friend, "Together?"
"Indeed! It must be as such for these poor folk have most likely never encountered two such as our selves, a proper representation of the genetic grandeur that is and can only ever be from the great home of Farraday! We must give them a proper spectacle befitting of nucleotide variants that set us not only apart but above and beyond all the rest!" the physician proclaimed proudly as a peacock prancing on the pasture. "Together!"
"Indeed 'Indeed', my highly esteemed Dr. Moreau! Such social simians require the proper and fitting example of persons of cunning, intelligence, taste, and breeding such as ourselves. It would behoove them to take to our example, though you are no doubt aware of the fable concerning the horse being led to water, yes?" Foy nodded excitedly, "Indeed, together!"
"More to be a correlation between the majestic lion and field mouse. While the mouse does have a purpose and they can witness the awe inspiring magnificence that is the king of beast, he shall never be able to elevate himself as such. Yet, he can remove a thorn in our paw from time to time. Or shall I say, a nitch in our knickers," Jahosafat said with a slight jump and a provocative tone as he wiggled his eyes brows and set his lovely hat back atop his head. "Together!"
"Yes! Such extreme sayings of sooth have never been uttered with such absolute certainty! Whilst my knickers has been suitably un-nitched by the activities of our host's talented hourly courtesans, I must observe that, in your resplendently apt metaphor, the lions and field mice may not engage as such, else the mice will explode." Foy considered his last statement, shrugged, and went with it. "Together, sir!"
"Indubitably, much like the story of the China-man and the Bear from Earth that was!" Jahosafat exclaimed as he ran his fingers along the brim of his stetson and slipped his arm through Foys. "Indeed!"
"I adore that story, sir!" Foy remarked, curling his arm around Jahosafat's in a brotherly manner and tapping his own bowler hat back upon his head with his free hand. They had a party to make and an appointment to keep downstairs, and the first part of that was the Grand Entrance. "Indubitably, Indeed, and Together! Are we agreed?"
"Right ripping good tale it was!" Jahosafat chuckled as he thought back to the wondrous legend of lore. Thumping the brim of his hat, he checked himself to ensure all was in order before looking back to esteemed Bestie and gave a nod. "Agreed."
"Unquestionably moving portrayal of life during, my insightful Doctor! Well spoken, and in the spirit of bardic poetry." Foy smiled a slightly crooked smile, bowed his head in appreciation, and smartly suggested, "I believe we must now be off, my stalwart compatriot. Agreed?"
Grinning broadly from ear to ear, the doctor kicked his heels slightly and readied himself. "But of course, agreed. Shall we?"
Mr. Coiffeur responded in delighted tones, "Most assuredly, we shall! Agreed. Indeed agreed; and agreed indeed, sir."
"Haha! Then we have reached a double indeed agreed! Let us descend!"
"Indubitably sir, and I concur! Agreed!"
"Quite, agreed!"
"Agreed!!"
"Agreed!"
And with that the two dapper gentlemen from Farraday descended down the stairs and over to the table, arm in arm. The most poised and perfects lads in the lot if they did say so themselves. Indeed!
Hur Bao Duhn Sah Gwa - Flat Chested Stupid Melon Head
William Harper
Location: Newhope - Lady Luck Skills: N/A
As it turned out, Harper could not make good on the promise to get Daphne another drink of something comforting and flammable before their food was served, as the waitress was making her approach with their meal at that moment. He wanted to keep an ear pointed in the direction of the newest addition to the crowd at the table, although it seemed like their Captain had that under control. The moment that he had Daphne back in her chair, he began accepting plates from their waitress and helping to distribute accordingly.
The appetizer platter, laden with smaller amounts of various local foodstuffs, was placed flatly in the center of the table. It might make for difficulty in dealing cards in the immediate future, though that was really more a difficulty for those playing cards. Harper was, in his estimation, getting more accomplished sitting, sipping his beverage, and listening to the people around him. As the lady began handing out individual dishes, Harper continued his service to the table, at least partially.
"JùxÃng XÄ«niú Pìgu1 sized Baozi, right here. And here." he responded as the waitress announced the contents of a plate. He was not completely happy with the fact that the lady was auctioning plates to the table, though he was damned near ecstatic that he was not being served a half-portion of "soyloaf" under supervision of armed guards. As she set food down in front of him, Harper turned to Anisa (who was apparently beginning a job interview with the new girl), gently placed a hand on her forearm, and said softly, "Ma'am?" before sliding a huge, heaping mound of Baozi almost directly in front of her, but not quite as not to disturb her hand of cards. His hand hovered there for just a moment, until the opportunity opened to speak. Again in low tones, he continued, "Let me know if there's anything more I can do for you, Ma'am?" His eyes lingered for a moment before returning to the rest of the food being served. Ever the able Lieutenant, of course.
Hot & Savory Cashews and Peanuts - Harper. Pomegranate Macaroons - Captain Crowe. And to make good on his promise as best he could given the situation, Harper locked eyes with their waitress, pointed at Daphne's drink, and held up one finger. He sipped his own drink, waving away the offer of another as he wasn't quite halfway done with it yet. Even though the half-paranoid man was intent on quietly keeping up with the conversations as they progressed at the table, he was face to face with a large amount of barbecued pork inside of a pillowy, steamed bun. His attention might have to be diverted. Bu before that occurred, he furtively risked a glance in the direction of Captain Crowe, seemingly curious as to how she was faring with food, conversation, and the incessant dram that seemed to follow them that evening.
Fitz didn't quite follow Anisa's logic as to why he was prohibited from being hired onto the ship. She had fired - and almost killed - Daphne over what she had said. Yet Fitz himself hadn't done anything. In fact, the most he had done was quietly hyperventilate on his side of the table. But at the same time, this didn't seem like a battle worth arguing over. He was surprisingly calm about this. There'd be other ships, either in need of an engineer or accepting passengers. "Y-you don't have to do this," Fitz said to Jackie. "I-I can find another ship looking f-for an engineer or p-p-passengers."
The waitress brought over his Shepherd's Pie, shortly after setting down Dorothy's hum bao plate and sweet douhua. "Th-this can't be the only ship with vacancies, right?" Fitz added. And he couldn't help but imagine other ships would have a bit more of a stable crew than this one seemed to have.
Dorothy, however, nearly spat out her drink as she heard Anisa offer a job to the woman who snuck on board their ship. Come to think of it, a lot of Anisa's hiring decisions had been...questionable lately. There were the additions from the Alliance vessel that had attempted to kill them. And now, the intruder was getting offered a job. Sure, they were low on people and needed the manpower after the hits they had taken, but could any of them be trusted?
"...I-I'd rather not have my balls crushed..." Fitz whispered to Jackie.
"I need some air," Dorothy finally said. She hadn't touched her food, but she had already lost most of her appetite. And as much as she loved cards, everything that had transpired in the past few minutes had driven her narrowly close to a breakdown. She glanced towards Anisa, silently asking her if she'd be fine if Dorothy stepped outside for a few minutes. She knew that Anisa was hurting and if she needed her to stay, she'd do so. Otherwise, Dorothy felt she needed a few minutes to clear her head and comprehend everything that had happened since they went to Whitefall.
And as she saw Foy and Jahoasafat approach the table, she felt equally certain that getting some air would be a good thing. It was hard to tolerate those two when they were sober - imagine how obnoxious they'd be buzzed.
This had not been the best night, but at least she still wasn't dead yet. Thankfully, she was back in a chair now, and not on the ground. When the captain mentioned not wanting Fitz around because of her, she didn't really mind too much, especially since it was clear that Fitz wanted nothing to do with the crew. Considering the fact that this is how he was introduced to the rest of them, it was hardly a surprise to her. Even though she had only met the guy that day, it was pretty obvious that he was nervous. Jackie was trying to convince her otherwise, but from what Fitz was saying, he was probably not interested at all.
When the food showed up, she looked at the food, but didn't really touch it. The new girl was talking to Anisa, and apparently was getting hired. Daphne knew better than to say anything, so instead, her focus turned to her sister. Dorothy hadn't said much of anything while Anisa talked to the woman, and it made her wonder what was going through her head. When she mentioned going out for a minute, it made her worry about her. It made her wonder what was going on, though it was pretty obvious. Everything that just happened and all, but she had always seemed to her as someone who could stand against a lot. She looked away from Dorothy for a moment, to see that Foy and Jahoasafat were joining them. Looks like things might be getting worse around the table, since things were probably not going to get better.
Location: Lady Luck: Table Main Room Skills: Jack-Of-All(Anisa), Recruiting (Anisa), Carouse (Jahosafat), Social Science -> Psychology (Jahosafat)
Anisa leaned back in her chair and gave a glance in Jackies direction. A bit of a smirk curling at the corner of her mouth as her eyes drifted over to Fitz. "Oh you misunderstand..." she said in a smooth voice. She was speaking to Jackie but her eyes locked with Fitzs and she refused to look away. Her finger running over the rim of her shot glass that the waitress had just refilled. "It has nothing to do with the kid. It's taint by association. Wouldn't look very good if I went and hired the boy after he was recommended by the girl I just fired. Though I wonder..." she said as her voice remained steady, a bit too steady.
The captain would have said more right then but there were two additions made to the table, Foy and Jahosafat. Seemed they had decided to return. Jahosafat was walking arm and arm with the "Barber?" to the table. He had his usual broad grin on his face as he stepped over and removed his hat. "Well I do say, you put on one hell of a show my dear captain. Quite captivating it was to be able to have grabbed not only my own but my compatriots attention. Though apparently not enough to grab the Preachers." He chuckled a bit as he glanced back and up towards the door where Atticus had peaked his head out from earlier. "Well you had snatched the bible thumpers consideration but it seems that it was only a fleeting thing as he looks to have returned to the carnal indulgences I so wish to be participating in currently. Yet as a gentleman of Farraday, when a lady draws a weapon, a man stands at attention. In more ways than one," he said with a exuberant intonation.
"Good god..." Anisa said under her voice as she stopped fondling her shot and downed it instead. Letting the fiery liquid rush down her throat and happily turning her attention to Harper as he spoke to her. Her eyes glanced down at the plate as it was placed in front of her. "Just stay close, at this rate I am sure you will have a job to occupy yourself with before the evening is out," she said as she looked over to her pilot. Granted, at that moment it wasn't clear what job she had in mind. Yet shooting Daphne or Jahosafat was on the table, but then again, Mei could use an audition.
Picking up her chopsticks she noticed Dorothy and her lips thinned. The fact she hadn't yet shot the womans sister was a good enough sign that her cheese hadn't slipped entirely off its cracker. She simply nodded at her friend, confirming that it was fine if she stepped out and got some air. Probably for the best, Dorothy looked more upset about the situation than Daphne did. The fact Daphne still hadn't even blinked over the entire bullet going off at the side of her head made Anisa wonder who was the crazy one right then.
Then again, as Jahosafat stood there and looked over the group he was beginning to wonder a few things himself. One was just what was going on with the Captain. A sly smirk came to his lips as a few ideas crossed his mind. Dorothy seemed to be acting as the status quo for such a situation witnessed by a second in command. Obviously not liking it but keeping her calm at least on the outside. He was rather impressed she was keeping it together so well. The captain had done well with picking a second. Daphne on the other hand, he had to wonder. Was she in denial? Had she been shot at a lot? From the files Anisa had provided him of her crew to look over the girl had nothing about her past to say she should be used to such a moment, unless Anisa made it a habit of shooting at the girl. (Which she didn't. This was a first.) It was either one of those two or the woman was as dead emotionally as a trout that had been gutted.
Then there was the boy at the table that seemed to have a massive stuttering problem. Jahosafat guffawed towards him. "Oh one has not been considered a man until he has had a woman sharply dressed with a tongue to match put him in his place at least once in his life. And I must concur with the blonde beauty, those heels are fabulous!"
Anisa was glad the liquor was making it easier to drown out the sound of Jahosafats voice as her attention was back on Mei currently. "That is the most reasons request I have had all day," Anisa said as she leaned forward in her chair and fiddled with the chopsticks in her hands. "Not tonight though. Tomorrow when heads are clear." She huffed slightly, blowing her hair out of her face as a few shorter strands fell forward. "Question remains, do you need a bunk tonight?"
Location: Newhope - Lady Luck Skills: None at this time
Mei listened as the Captain spoke and ate and drank. After all, she was the stranger. She would also wait until tomorrow to disclose what she needed to. However, the Captain was asking if she had a bed. Truth be told, she didn't have a "bed" per se. She was used to such arrangements though and often found them comfortable enough. Given her recent injury, she would enjoy being able to sleep in an actual bed, even if it was in a cramped ship.
"I wouldn't turn down a bunk if offered, but only if one is open and available. I would not like to put someone out for my selfish needs." After she spoke, Jackie watched as two....characters came to the table. She didn't know what to make of either of them, but she got the sense there was something off. Especially with one of her pursuers now vacating the table.
Jacqueline Croix
Location: Newhope - Lady Luck Skills: Carouse
Jackie let the woman speak, though she didn't pay much mind as to what she was saying. Instead, she helped herself with a spoonful of Fitz's shepherd's pie. "Don't worry, your balls are safe." She said so with a wink as she picked up her drink and downed it. Captain Ballcruncher made some fine points, though it still bothered her she wasn't willing to see Fitz's skills out just because some idiot trumped her authority.
Jackie knew she liked her.
Jackie leaned her chair back with her feet up, looking over her cards. "Hey, I get it. You have a reputation and all that shit. My stipulation remains though. However, seems he's fine with not joining, so I guess that's all well and good. I was about to suggest a test of sorts, kind of like the one chicky over there," she said pointing to Mei, "did by sneaking on board your ship. At least so he can prove himself without the need for anyone else inputting over your command."
After Jackie spoke, she looked over as two men came practically dancing over. She had very little time to think of clever nicnnames for the two of them, but they would come to her. It seems as though they were also part of Captain Ballcruncher's crew. Jackie had to stifle in another fit of laughter. With all of these yahoos, how the hell did anything get done? Especially by someone who talked...like that!?!? "Who the fuck talks like that? It was like readin' a poetry book."
It was an interesting point for Harper to note that, while Anisa's actions might seem highly irrational, it made perfect sense to him. Removing sentimentality from the equation, the decision to remove Daphne from service but not the ship gave her an opportunity to rebuild a rapport with the Captain while removing responsibility to her directly. In addition to keeping the sisters together, it forced Dorothy to take on that responsibility and direct her sibling accordingly. It allowed for hope, if executed in the most ass way possible. But that seemed to be the way things occurred in this part of the 'Verse. As Captain, Anisa could not be seen as weak or ineffectual. Such things were excellent ways to lose a crew, or worse, lose a ship entirely to them. Harper was a dutiful survivor, or so he hoped. He wasn't a hundred percent on which side he would take if something like that happened, though from the looks of things, that wasn't likely at all.
Another interesting point for Harper to note was that, with his presence, Anisa seemed keen on observing how the rest of the crew reacted. Especially Daphne. There were people on board that could fly the boat, no problem, but it he and the younger pilot had a similar, extremely useful skill set. Harper personally handed Anisa the equivalent to a personnel file on himself; she knew what he was rated to do and the extent of his education. The rest of the crew figured him for a "presumed dead" Alliance Fleet Officer pilot (or at least he hoped), but even that should have been taken as a threat to job security for one or two from the Vengeance crew, responded to by increased willingness to toe the line or at least trip him up somehow. Neither of those things happened. If anything, a singular and pervasive apathy took hold, followed by varying degrees of insubordination.
There was no way that Anisa could have accepted Fitz into the crew - not right then, and not until something fundamental about the situation changed. If she were to do so, it would give the appearance that the woman she just dismissed was right in her actions overall and rightly challenged the authority, even in a small way. Tiny cracks led to big holes, which were deadly out in the Black. This might work out for the applicants, in his estimation. Might, but right now all they could be were drinking buddies. And to be honest, Harper really didn't feel like drinking.
Harper was sorry that all of that had to happen; there was no trace of dishonesty there. Many unpleasant things needed to happen to get a good, trustworthy crew underway, and not every aspect of managing a staff revolved around friendship or leniency. Naturally, this internal thought process was entirely based upon what he had gleaned about the Captain over the course of the past week or so. He could be completely off about the situation, throwing his own slant into a scenario where he wanted to find a sense of belonging.
These were matters that had already been settled for now. Harper was not in a position to alter them, even if he thought doing so was prudent. Instead, he nodded to the Captain's request to keep himself available, intoned a quiet, "Yes ma'am." and turned his thoughts to other matters.
Two main objects of his attention held more sway at the moment, and be did not mean the two dandies from Farraday that had re-graced the table with their presence. No, the lady that Anisa was addressing who apparently had been the cause for excessive dram earlier that day was one. This seemed highly irregular. He wasn't about to make comment, merely scope it out with an eye geared toward skepticism and see what developed. The other matter was a heaping plateful of Baozi, cabbage, and basil-infused legumes. Carefully, he broke open the top of the delicately steamed bun to reveal the yummy barbecued pork within and, only as mannered as the setting dictated, tore into it.
Foy Coiffeur
Location: Newhope - Lady Luck Skills: N/A
Being as they had arrived to their chosen destination, Foy uncoupled his arm from Jahosafat's and used the opportunity to tip his very fine hat and exclaim, "I take to my dear friend and associate's assessment of the hour's events with unmatched and certain agreement. It was an invigorating display of assertive Captain-ing, if ever there was one displayed. I have significantly less regret now concerning my decision to take contract with this fine lady."
Foy spun his bowler from his head with a flourish, setting it upon the table in front of an open space. "But wherever are our manners, dear sir?" he queried, looking to Jahosafat. "We've new people in our midst, ergo introductions must greet them, and forthwith! If grace would move you to permit, I would ask the honor of the initial, my good sir? Saving the best for last, of course." He gave an agreeable nod in his friend's direction, then took in the faces and details of the people he did not know at the table.
"Apologies for interrupting such a riveting occasion. I am Foy Coiffeur, of the notable Farraday Coiffeurs (you may have seen my visage upon various jars of ungent or follicle elixir), and this dapper individual is Dr. Jahosafat Moreau, Gentleman Rapscallion and Medical Officer of our merry band of troublemakers and ne'er-do-wells." As Foy spoke, he made his way over to Mei's chair and rested his hands upon the back of it, drumming lightly with his thumbs.
The unfamiliar blonde lady's comment on Jahosafat's peculiarities of speech was noted by the proper, moustachioed man, who responded thusly: "I assure you, madame, that persons of breeding and taste from the Noble Moon of Farraday speak in this manner; though I daresay toward the affirmative, in comparison to the rougher tongues of the Border and Rim, our habits of diction and verbal etiquette are magnificently poetic. My own family and tutors were singularly austere in matters of verbiage."
Foy smiled and looked down at Mei, considering his options. In the end, he simply stated, "It is a pleasure, of course. You must save me a dance later; we may discuss ...current events, madame."
Dr. Dorothy Pender & Dr. Fitz Townsley
Location: Lady Luck's Skills:
Dorothy smiled slightly in relief as Anisa indicated that she would be fine to go and get some air. To say that the past week had been trying was an understatement, and unlike others, she didn't feel at ease in Lady Luck's. She felt restless and tense, as memories that she attempted to repress threatened to come back with a vengeance. There had been enough dram without her seeing her father's face in each bartender, regardless as to whether or not they actually resembled him. "Shiny. I won't be long more than a mo'," Dorothy said, nodding at Anisa before she departed from the table.
What was she going to do about her sister? While she was grateful that Daphne hadn't been ejected from the ship, she no longer had a job. She could see two possible outcomes of this situation - maybe even a third. Daphne could grow in maturity and eventually get her job back, yet she felt there was an equal chance that her sister might exhibit even more teenage angst than she had before. There was a third option - there was no reason why Daphne couldn't leave and join another crew. If Daphne left the ship completely, should she follow her? That option may not even come to pass, but already Dorothy felt torn as she exited Lady Luck's and felt the night air on her face. She shoved her hands in her pockets and walked down the street, not caring in particular where she went.
The tears on her face glistened in the evening light. She stopped on the side of the street and looked up towards the sky, feeling as if she were adrift in the Black. What was she going to do?
Meanwhile, back inside, Fitz couldn't help but smile slightly at the accents of Foy and Jahosafat. He was from Osiris, one of the most influential planets in the Core. The High Court was present there, hearing Alliance judicial cases. And of course, the University of Osiris itself was renowned. While Fitz hadn't seen the 'Verse himself before, he had heard a Faradayan accent before. From what he recalled, Faraday had a bit of a reputation for being one of the more Core minded worlds in the Rim. That didn't mean, of course, that he didn't find Faradayan speech patterns to be a bit verbose. It was like watching a play from Earth That Was - an experience that could not quite be compared to any other.
He extended a hand to Foy, his fingers shaking slightly. "D-Dr. Fitz Townsley," he introduced himself. "En-engineering," he then added. He would have tagged on that he received his doctorate in engineering from the University of Osiris, but that felt like it would be a bit much.
Fitz then smiled kindly at Jackie. He deeply appreciated her attempts to advocate for him - but he didn't feel like they were going to work. He was an engineer in his soul. If Plan A didn't work, then it was time to evaluate what went wrong, implement changes, and begin Plan A Trial II. There wasn't any reason why they had to get hired onto this particular ship. Of course, there wasn't any reason why Fitz needed to work either. His family was wealthy and he had the funds to travel as a passenger if he wanted to. "R-Royus recommended I try in the m-morning to get passage or a job. W-we can go to the docks then."
Daphne Pender
Location: Lady Luck Skills: None
Daphne listened to the conversations around her. She wasn't too thrilled that Foy and Jahosafat had returned, but there wasn't much she could do about it. They were an interesting pair, at least in her opinion. With Foy just continuing to spout off his mouth, and talking to Anisa and Mei, it made it easier for her not to say anything at all. From what she knew about him, he spoke enough for everyone else.
She watched her sister leave the table, and contemplated following her. Her sister did not look too good, but from the sounds of it, she wanted to be alone. Daphne didn't think her sister would want to talk to her at the moment anyway, so she left her alone. It was always best to leave her be when she wanted to be left alone. She turned her attention to Fitz, who was starting to talk again as he introduced himself to Foy. He seemed to be doing a little better now that things had calmed down, though at the rate things were going, who knew how long that was going to last. With some woman who had apparently gone snuck onto the ship and now seemed to be getting a job, things just kept getting more interesting, at least to her. She remained silent, just listening to the conversations around her.
Location: Lady Luck: Table Main Room Skills: Jack-Of-All(Anisa), Recruiting (Anisa), Carouse (Jahosafat), Social Science -> Psychology (Jahosafat)
Anisa quirked a brow. This woman was either too honest and too goodie or she was up to something. Anisa might have had a bit of a buzz but she wasn't stupid or blind. Yet she went along with it. There was enough truth to let Anisa wasn't to test the waters and see where all of this would go. "Not putting anyone out and even if you were that is my decision, no one elses." Anisa wanted whatever doubt anyone might have had in their mind that this was her ship they were talking about. This wasn't a democracy when it came to things. She didn't take votes. She hardly ever listened to opinions. Her ship, if they didn't like it the door could hit them on their ass on the way out, even if it was in the middle of the black.
Jahosafat took a bow as he pulled his hat from his head. Flourishing it from let to right. "Well said my dapper compatriot. I am the resident doctor upon our lovely captains vessel extraordinaire. Why must one suffer through the trials and tribulations of a stitching or cleaning with something set in the rudimentary or dull scrubs that so many of my profession believe is necessary to adorn themselves with. Why not have a bit a flair with ones wardrobe. It is a lust for life that makes all things grand and when one is at deaths door, they should be privileges to the best dressed and most exuberant of doctors. I know myself would never settle for less," the man spouted off as he gave a bit of a wink to Jackie as he flipped his hat about and slipped it back onto his head.
Yet his attention did not remain with her long as he noticed the other doctor on the ship making an exit. His luscious brow rose and his eyes drifted to the one she called sister. He had been observing the two since he spotted them when he looked down from above. There was much going on there and he wanted to know even more. "Though I must step out for a moment of air myself. So many circumstances weaving together at once and it seems that you all are in the best company one could hope for. My dear dapper Foy. So please, soak up his culture and ways, it would do you now harm while I go with my medical counter part and have a breath of fresh'er air. Do wait up my dear dear Dorothy. Tis such a shame that your arm or mine should be bare. Let us waltz the streets together!" he exclaimed before belining it after Dorothy and in a right hurry it seemed.
Looking over towards Jackie, Anisa couldn't help but snot slightly. "Farradians..." Anisa said as she answered the question of who the hell speaks like that. Granted, even for that moon these two seemed a bit over the top from what Anisa could recall. Yet every person from Farraday she had met had been a bit off when it came to things. Not that they were nuts or anything like that, just that they were very different. And in this 'Verse that was saying something. She couldn't help but smirk a bit as a thought from long ago came creeping into her mind as she turned slightly and looked over towards Foy. It hadn't dawned on her until now but there had been something very familiar about him and now she had pegged it...
"Beatriz Maverick! That's it! You are the fuckin' boy toy version of Bouncin' Betty!" Anisa said as she slapped her hand on the table and leaned forward. "That fucking Farradaian flower card shark," she added as she eyes Foy and took a closer look at him. Really the first hard stare of a look at the man she had ever given him. Bouncin' Betty was well known by lowerworld class. She was known for running gambling halls and always two steps ahead of anyone she had never tricked. The woman never held a legit game in her life. The only reason she was probably still alive was because even though people knew she was cheating them, they couldn't figure out how. It kept her ahead of the game and those with a coin on her head. (Always alive because they wanted answers, or something more.)
Outside the man from Farraday quickly caught up to Dorothy and no sooner than he had, had he pulled a silk handkerchief from his vest pocket and handed it over to her. "Quite the exhibition of authority our dear captain is putting out there is it not. Yet, your sister did not even flinch when the bullet nearly took her life. Tell me, is she always this dull in such matters or is she unaware of the danger her life was truly in?"
Location: Newhope - Lady Luck Skills: None at this time
Mei wasn't about to turn down anything that would lead her to finding out the information she wanted. "Then I will accept a bunk gladly. You have my thanks." She bowed her head in respect. As far as her instincts told her, the Captain's word was true. The fact she almost shot one of her crew members before firing her and then offered a known infiltrator a job only meant she took chances and was dealing with a lot. Mei didn't want to add to that burden tonight. Once back on their ship after tonight's events wore down, she would spill her story to a, hopefully, understanding woman.
However, it was the two new additions that took Mei by surprise. They weren't unlike any other men she had seen before. The blonde one with the rather interesting mustache especially piqued her interest. There was something about him. And his words ebbed and oozed with...something. Was it hatred? Contempt? Anger? Either way, this colorful man rubbed her the wrong way. "I don't dance with strange men. If you wish to speak, I'll happily oblige."
Jacqueline Croix
Location: Newhope - Lady Luck Skills: Carouse
Jackie was having a hell of a time. The cast of kooky characters were showing this ship to be a wild ride. Especially the...Farradians? Was that the word. Damn, she had to come up with a shit tone of clever nicknames for these people in such a short time and with limited information on them. Captian Ballcruncher. Fuckin'dian. Dapper Doctor. There. She sipped her drink with a smile. She was so good!
Fitz was being his ever lovable self. Especially when he all but invited her along to find another ship. It melted her heart. Well...if she had a heart it would have melted for sure! Still, Jackie wasn't done with this crew. She could see herself getting into all sorts of adventures with them. Or at least, finding treasure! Money spoke louder than most other things.
"I said it before, I said it again, I am still curious how things are gettin' done on this ship of yours. No disrespect either as I am sure you and your wicked heels are able to get the job done, no problems." Jackie polished off her drink before leaning her chair back, feet on the table. "Fitz, I've a feeling this night is just getting started with this lot. Not sure I'll be in any sort to go anywhere in the mornin'."
Foy took the extended hand of the rather nervous Dr. Fitz Townsley, offering back a firm but not domineering squeeze. He was a gentleman, after all, and was getting the responding end of a formal introduction. Such were the ways of etiquette, regardless of surroundings. Besides, the man looked very much like he was more than slightly uncomfortable in precisely those surroundings, possibly requiring something in the way of civility amid the uncivilized. "A pleasure, Dr. Townsley. Though my, but aren't we ponderously resourced with persons of higher learning? Doctors in particular have attracted my notice, though inhabitants of these less established environs may very well be due a modicum of enlightenment that comes with association with the learned and more refined of the social strata." A look of some regard then came over the dapper individual, as if he was considering something. He smiled gracing the table with his fine example of dental hygiene. "You know, old chum..." he continued, still looking to Fitz, "...with the exception of over-masticating your words, you have a passingly familiar accent." Foy looked to their ship's pilot, "Isn't that right, Mr. Harper?"
Harper knew precisely what he mean by that question. Both he and this Engineer had certain similarities in diction, possibly indicating a common point in background. Foy considered the pilot an enigma; one that he might begin to unravel with careful attention. It could be a coincidence, of course. People of education often spoke in like manner. Unless they were from Farraday. But this might be another clue - not his suspicion, but Harper's reaction to it spoken aloud.
The reaction was uncertain. An annoyed narrowing of the eyes and clenching of a hand. Foy's bright eyes saw Harper's other hand drift toward his hip, reasons being unknown to him without error; although that was the side where the former Alliance officer kept his new sidearm. The agitated fellow likely didn't stand a chance against the seasoned gunman if it came to drawing iron, nonetheless combat was not Foy's intent. He mentally marked down the occasion and continued to associate elsewhere at the table.
The sudden exit of Jahosafat was acknowledged by Foy, though not with the usual grand verbose discourse one had come to expect from the lettered Gentleman. It was considered a great act of impropriety to continue a conversation with a man who was hastily on the go, unless the subject was highly important or traveling in the same direction. He was neither, so he limited his response to Jahosafat's suggestion that he stay and "soak up the culture" with a simple, "Indeed I shall, my stalwart compatriot! You two tend to ...doctor-ous proclivities, or some such." Well, no immediate plans for a dance-off, more was the pity, but he did take the opportunity to locate and settle into a seat, right near the newest girl at the table to who he had professed owed him a new pair of madisons. He was just about to respond to Mei's assertions that she did not dance with, as she put it, "strange men", when the Captain made a butchery of pronouncing the word associated with persons originating from his birth planet.
"Ah Captain Crowe, if I may? I appreciate your vigor in the distinction of my people, buy it is more rightly pronounced Farradayan. Day. Common verbal misadventure, you understand." Then he was taken aback at the tactless but horrifyingly close to the mark exclamation that came out of Anisa's mouth next. "Would that you would be so gracious, Captain, but I am no one's Boy Toy - of that I can assure you. Though I find it coincidence beyond the metaphysical that you would have acquaintance with my dear sibling. Beyond that, the application of personal insult is as unnecessary as it is lugubrious, madame."
Lightly flustered at the unexpected turn of events, he called for the waitress, "Barmaid! I should require a pheasant, or some other such tidbit. Oh, what in unsolicited combustion do these folk eat in Newhope? Ah, Blackened Beef Heart, perhaps, with an appropriate vintage? No, just... whatever shan't make me vomit, if you would please. What he's having!" he decided suddenly, pointing at Harper. "Lad has taste, if not the most ardent of transparency." And to the table, "So, whatever shall we discuss, that I may absorb the culture of the hour?"
William Harper
Location: Newhope - Lady Luck Skills: N/A
That barber was playing on Harper's last reserve of patience. Stamping upon a raw nerve, at the least. It was not that he was a very talkative man, nor that his vocabulary made Harper wonder if he had a thesaurus surgically implanted into his frontal lobe. Those were minor annoyances at best. No, the son-of-a-bitch was inquisitive, perceptive, and looked like he was close to figuring out a detail about him; one that would be a detail too far, in his estimation.
He thought back to the various questions and comments the pseudo-aristocrat had tossed in his direction over since they had met. Obviously he suspected something. He had, even before Whitefall. Perhaps he did not realize that the desperation of his situation might drive him to club the man over his highly dignified head while his back was turned and stuff his corpse down a garbage chute, or perhaps his arrogance did not allow him to consider that possibility. Either way, the moment that Foy had involved him in the conversation by implying that he and Gitz has similar accent (if only slightly), his first impulse was to put his hand nearer to his gun. If Foy kept this up, especially in public, Harper wasn't sure what he was going to do. They needed a heart-to-heart later on.
Besides, right now he had more important things to do that involved food. While he wanted to rop into everything with bare handa, he contented himseld with the use of utensils for the time being. And the ment moment that Anisa mentioned that woman's name, Beatriz? The look of consternation on Foy's face made the situation worth it. He smiled inwardly, looking to the Captain. Was it rude? Yes. Did he deserve it? Also yes. He made a note to buy her another drink later.
Dorothy heard Jahosafat before she actually saw him - his accent and mannerisms were hard to mistake for another. And after spending the day in Foy's company, she doubted that she'd get the two of them mixed up. They were each aggravating in their own distinctive ways - though she did have to say that she preferred Foy to Jahosafat. If she had learned anything today, it was that Foy at least was competent. Yet for Jahosafat, most of what she had seen from him was a man delving into his work. She had yet to truly interact with him.
"Ta Ma Duh..." Dorothy muttered under her breath. She had assumed that going outside for some air was a pretty clear indication to leave someone alone. Evidently, they didn't teach that simple idea on Farraday. Or if they had, it was a lesson that Jahosafat had neglected to fully understood. She gritted her teeth and took a deep breath, before turning to face him just as he caught up to her. Had he simply offered her sympathy and a handkerchief, then it wouldn't have made matters worse. Of course, he did more than that.
He implied that Daphne was dull and ignorant. Whether or not Daphne actually was, and of course, whether that had been his meaning, did not matter. And being a rather impulsive person by nature, she had managed to keep herself disciplined to a point - she hadn't jumped to Daphne's aid to make the situation worse. But outside of Lady Luck's, with no Captain around to disapprove and Jahosafat's dig at her sister, Dorothy snapped. She swung her fist, aiming for Jahosafat's jaw.
"Da Shiong La Se La Ch’wohn Tian has more grace than you!" Dorothy cursed. "Tell me, doctor, do you know what shock is? Or are you all Da Chung Wu Dahn?!" She had to resist the urge to take another swing. "This is my gorram sister you're talking about. I don't care if she's secretly a companion to a Ser Toh. While you can talk to me about the crew when I'm fulfilling my duties as second, I'm off the clock right now. I'm not going to stand here and let you call her dull. Chwee Ni Duh."
Meanwhile, back inside Lady Luck's, Fitz was half amused and half concerned when it came to Jackie. "Un-unfortunately I'm not that kind of doctor...So m-m-maybe don't drink yourself completely to d-death," he said, his voice light and joking despite the stutter. It had easily been worse when he met Jackie earlier on that evening. The longer he spent in her company, the clearer and more distinct his speech came. It was largely symptomatic of social anxiety. And as he became more familiar with the other people at the table, the fewer reasons he had to feel anxious - for the most part.
However, something about Foy's words bothered Fitz. While he was well versed in the stereotypes that outside of the Core, everyone was less educated, less civilized, and so forth - it hadn't been the case. He had encountered several kind individuals already, and people will ill intentions were hardly restricted to the Border Planets. "I-I disagree, Mr. Coi-Coiffeur. I th-think we actually have something to learn from them. Kn-knowledge and b-books are great, but...there's l-little point to it if you j-just stay put. Th-there's more to learn in the 'Verse." And of course, he didn't particularly care for the way Foy had referred to his stutter. It wasn't something that he could help. It was what it was. While it could get smaller at times, it was always there.
Clearly, someone didn't agree with her about leaving Dorothy alone. You'd think someone would get the hint, even if they just watched her walk out. He should leave her alone, and Daphne doubted that he was the person that she wanted to talk to right then. She contemplated going after Jahosafat, and basically tell him to get lost, but she suppressed the urge, since her sister still wanted to be alone, she figured she'd yell at him and tell him to leave her alone or something.
Jackie was definitely an interesting person. The way she spoke, it made her continue to wonder what went through her head. Basically asking a question that technically didn't need to be answered. If she remembered correctly, earlier in the evening she had asked Anisa the exact same question and was given an answer already. Fitz seemed to be doing better, somewhat anyway. He was managing to hold his own in a conversation for once, which was interesting. The fact that he was now talking to Foy made her want to laugh, who knew what would happen with the conversation, though she wasn't too eager to join in again. Just listening in seemed to be a better thing for her to do considering.
Location: Lady Luck: Table Main Room Skills: Jack-Of-All(Anisa), Recruiting (Anisa), Carouse (Jahosafat), Social Science -> Psychology (Jahosafat)
Jahosafat for once let that broad smile of his fall away as he took a quick step, coming in front of Dorothy and blocking her path before this could go any further. His shoulders squared a bit, his chin tilting down as he clasped his hands before him. He looked everything the physician right now about to deliver a hard diagnosis, even if he was dressed to the nines for a night out on the town in true Farraday style. Then he spoke, and while his words were as winded as they always were, the tone was different. This wasn't a moment he was taking lightly and he was making sure he was getting his point across. "That is a sister speaking, not a physician in charge of the health and well being of a crew. Nor are those the words of a second in command ensuring the gears of our rag tag bunch are oiled and not about to blow." He seriously doubted the woman was thinking straight an while he couldn't blame her, there was more that needed to be said even if she didn't want to hear it.
Anisa smirked a bit as she set down her drink and looked at Jackie. "That's simple. They do their job or I shove them out the air lock when we're in the black." Death was a powerful motivating factor. It seemed harsh and cold and perhaps it was but that was how Anisa ran her ship. Plus she wasn't going to say anything along the lines of this was half a new crew she didn't know yet, or that she had just lost her second, or that they were not up to their usual snuff, or that those that were members of her previous crew were like siblings and children to her that she protected and taught hard lessons to when she had to. No, death was as good of a reason as any.
"Now, your sisters personality could be chalked up to shock if it were not for the fact that from everything I have witnessed and observed of your younger half since our fair crews merged denotes this is typical and every day mental status for her. Nothing has changed, so this cannot be shock. That is unless she has been in shock this entire week and if that is the case, please do tell me Dr. Pender, why haven't you been treating her? Or referred her to me since you know as well as I do that we in the medical professions should never treat our own blood unless there is no other choice. It makes everything tainted from personal hope and denial."
Looking back over towards Foy, Anisa let out a laugh as she slapped the table and leaned forward. "That Feh Feh Pi Goh is your sister? That explains soooooo much. We are gonna have to have a talk later, she has amassed many debts in the Black, one with me." Oh this night was just getting better and better. Bouncin' Betty was Fuckin' Foys sister... This was too good. Picking up her chop sticks she gave a sideways glance over towards Harper and smirked a bit before she took a bite. She had drank a lot that evening and was feeling the effects of it. Granted she hadn't drunk near as much as she could handle. Many a night playing poker with Jackson and Atticus while drinking away had more than prepared her for a night on Whitefall downing spirits.
Stepping out of her way, he was ready to let her move forward but before he did he left her with one more notion. "It is a good thing that the Captain fired your sister. She is not fit to fly as she is and if this is how she is normally I wonder if she ever was." With that he tipped his hat towards Dorothy and turned, ready to head back to the Lady Luck. It wasn't that he enjoyed moments like this but he had to do what he had to do. There was no question about that now.
Location: Newhope - Lady Luck Skills: None at this time
It was kind of entertaining to see the interaction between the Captain and this random man who stepped up. He didn't appear to be one that would travel on board an Alliance vessel. Or any ship for that matter. His manner of speaking led her to believe he may be an actor of some sort, though he was dressed somewhat garishly for her tastes. Maybe a fashion designer?
It occurred to her that she had been under the assumption that they were all Alliance personnel. Given how they spoke to each other and what they said, she had to think about that. Were they Alliance? Their ship seemed to be Alliance, but the Captain especially gave off a different vibe. Were they rebels? It didn't matter much to her anyway (she was sure the Alliance had files on her). "So, I've been under the impression that you were all Alliance and I feel I am mistaken. I apologize for that assumption. So if you don't mind me asking, what exactly are you all?"
Jacqueline Croix
Location: Newhope - Lady Luck Skills: Carouse
Fitz's concern for her safety warmed her up better than any alcohol could. Ok, that was a lie. But still, it touched her. "Relax, Fitzy baby, I can hold my liquor far better than most. In fact, I reckon I could drink this lot under the table. But manners and shit like that." Jackie grabbed a drink from a passing waitress' tray and took a swig. As she did so, Fuckdian continued to have his little conversation with Captain Ballcruncher.
The two seemed to butt heads and Jackie was surprised Fuckdian wasn't floating in space, per Captain Ballcruncher's words. Perhaps there was more to Fuckdian than she gave him credit for?
Nah!
"Y'all are a real treat to listen to. I can see myself never getting bored. You especially," she pointed at Fuckdian,"Are the most entertaining. What do you do on the ship? Talk people to death? I can imagine how effective that would be." Jackie paid little mind to the Asian woman that was now there, preferring to let Captain Ballcruncher handle that aspect. She also didn't care for the little pilot (well....EX-pilot now...) girl. Dapper Doctor ran after the other woman (she STILL needed a nickname for her), leaving them to their devices. Were they still playing cards even?!?
It seemed that Foy was quite the conversational centerpiece. Ordinarily, he much preferred it that way. He was a Gentleman of Standing and Professional Endeavors, educated and highly trained in his fields of expertise. It was only natural that others look to him as an example. And if not, well, the anthill always needed worker drones to keep the necessary but untidy odds and ends running smoothly. Philistines, yes, but necessary. This occasion was beginning to differ from most, however. The mention of his dear, sweet, innocent sister was offputting, mostly as her good name was being besmirched by the present holder of his contract for the foreseeable. Tact might be necessary, and not only because he had failed to bring his sixguns with him.
"My dearest Captain, I have the fullest comprehension of your agitation and unrest, given that there are some persons who have suffered a wrongful situation to which she was party. I must pose a query, after which I shall make you an offer: Was she not with her husband at the time; a Mr. Maverick? Understand, I know their family well and respect their lineage. Despite breeding and resources, Mr. Maverick is a cad of the highest order, having been disowned by his people for... well, for reasons they may disclose were one to ask them. Suffice it to say, he utilized my brilliant yet impressionable sister's head for mathematics for his own nefarious ends. Your quarrel is with him, I should imagine. One does not blame the knife for the pain in one's back, madame. One blames the ruffian who impaled it thusly."
Foy straightened his tie with a practiced motion and beamed a gracious smile, one reserved for the purposes of settling the nerves of amateur businesspeople before he got down to it. "However, I would be pleased to discuss representative mediation at a later point. The evening is about recreation, is it not? Let us set a moratorium on business." Hopefully, the matter would be shelved for a while. If the issue was deemed important enough to continue the conversation by the Captain, then perhaps Foy's greater repertoire of skills and resources should be brought to bear. Again, without the use of sixguns. One must maintain an element of civilized discourse among the uncivilized, where it was ever so much more important.
But speaking to the point of what was considered civilized, hearing aloud Mei's assumption about their political and/or military standing gave him quite a bit of mirth. Foy attempted valiantly to suppress a full laugh, instead allowing only an arrogant sounding snort to escape. "Ho hooo, madame. I do not speak for the rest of my associates, though I can attest from personal experience that whilst the Alliance provides opportunities most lucrative, they often lack imagination and frequently become melancholic. To phrase simply, they are boring." He looked to the woman across the table pointing at him, "But as for you..." he began, pulling a dramatically oversized straightrazor from his belt. He made a quiet showing of quietly tending to a manicured thumbnail with the wicked looking blade before looking into Jacqueline's eyes with a smile, stating flatly, "I am the vessel's Barber, madame." His smile and knowing look implied much more.
William Harper
Location: Newhope - Lady Luck Skills: N/A
Harper gave notice to the goings on at the table, mostly the conflicting bits of personality that made for an interesting source of tension. Were his fate not directly tied to that of his new crew, he might consider this situation entertaining, albeit a little cliched. Still, compared to his last semi-permanent residence, it was actually quite civilized conversation. Subtle, even. Life outside of the Halo could still be very treacherous for that reason, though he doubted that reprisals for actions taken with this bunch would be remotely as personal, nor motivated by survival. Those habits based upon survival were nonetheless difficult to break, such as his own internal sense of a building situation.
Whether or not that situation was happening now, Harper felt the need to break things up a little bit. He was not quite the verbose type that Foy was, preferring to work with a touch more in the way of subtlety. Setting up metaphorical dominoes to tip over later, or taking action indirectly if at all possible. Indirect action was exactly what he had in mind at that moment, preferably in a way that removed himself and another point of dram from the table, hopefully to change the dynamic and allow the conversation to progress naturally to another series of topics that had nothing to do with where he was from, what he was doing with this crew, anyone getting thrown out of an airlock, nor anyone else getting terminated and/or shot.
He studied those present at the table. There was much he didn't know about these people; the ones he knew best he had met only a handful of days ago. He could only use what he had personally observed. The newer people were right out. Not only were they the ones asking most of the questions, he knew nothing of them. Dorothy and Jahosafat had left the table, presumably to make their own noise elsewhere. And then there was Daphne. The girl was a source of attention, despite her unwillingness to initiate or contribute to the ongoing discussion at the table coupled with her seeming indifference to events unfolding around them all. Then there was the Captain. Anisa was definitely drawing attention, most of the reasons for which Harper actually agreed. He wasn't as happy with the methods she used to communicate her displeasure, though her ways were not his. Obviously. He did notice the glance in his direction with accompanying smirk, and decided to take a calculated risk.
"Ma'am? I don't know about you, but my baozi is a little too hot. Would you care for that dance now?" He raised his eyebrows in an attempt to look benign and hopeful. "You might have to lead, if you don't mind. I haven't gone dancing in a very long while."
Dorothy knew that she wasn't thinking as a doctor or a second in command at the moment. It had been part of the reason she decided to remove herself from the situation for a few minutes. She couldn't suddenly stop being Daphne's big sister, no more than she could stop being the girl from Boros, the ex-Alliance physician, or Anisa's second in command. They were all part of a tapestry that comprised her identity. And while there had been occasions where those roles had competing interests, she was learning to balance them. But that by no means meant that she wasn't cross with Jahosafat, no matter how true his words were. He had intruded on a private emotional moment and was telling her information she already knew.
As she inhaled, it was like the rage was being pumped throughout her system, yet she then found herself at a loss for words. Of course she was concerned about Daphne's mental health. Of course she wasn't thinking clearly at the moment. It didn't take any manner of high education to figure that one out. There was a battle within her - the second in command and the sister, all over what was best for Daphne and what was best for the crew. She watched Jahosafat walk off, her head swimming with ideas but finding herself unable to put them into words.
She couldn't help but wish Genevieve was there. For all of her flaws, she was a decent counselor. She would have been able to help Daphne in ways that others could not. Once she could no longer see her medical counterpart, Dorothy curled her fists and bit down on her lip, muffling a small scream of frustration. There was tension in almost every part of her body and as much as she wanted to dispel it, it seemed like it'd remain permanently. Maybe she needed to talk to Genevieve as well. That or empty a chamber into a stationary and inanimate target. Either choice would make her feel better.
Back inside the Lady Luck's, Fitz gave Jackie a bit of a confused look. "D-don't you just...climb under the table? C-Can't anyone do that?" The poor thing was so sheltered that he didn't know the meaning of that expression. He couldn't have even been certain if he had heard it before in his lifetime. Or if he had, he hadn't paid much attention or managed to grasp the meaning. It was a special sort of irony - he was so skilled when it came to engineering but so clueless when it came to Jackie's world.
His confusion only increased when Foy explained that he was a barber. Fitz accepted it at face value, yet it didn't make much sense to him. What ship had a full time barber? Did they have incredibly unruly hair that would warrant keeping a barber on staff? No one at the table seemed particularly hairy or unkempt - so why the barber? "Y-you pay him to cut hair full time?" Fitz asked, his tone curious rather than critical.
