>>19776262

Drink tea, ask her more about the system.

>>19776309

The tea doesn't taste like analogue either. You sit back and enjoy it, watching as Yulia squeezes some lemon into it. More cups are passed out to the staffers around.

You notice that many of the Strelsy bear scars and wounds, some of them quite horrible. Olga herself appears to be the only person here who isn't obviously scarred. You ask about the system.

'Oh yeah... wait, so you weren't born here then?'

'Not... really.'

'What's that mean?' She smiles. 'Well, neither was I. But that's a story for another time. Yes, Varras! Three stars, eight planets, 31 moons and billions of people. We've got the two nexus worlds, Constantine - which is around the same star - and Adrian, which is over at Varras 2. And from there the local government attempts to rule over a population that's... well, you've seen a typical sampling.'

'Violent stuff.'

'Violent, and also resilient. And also often in need of trade, interventions, and so many other semi-legal things. Criminals come to Varras because the government here is weak, and the Alliance doesn't quite care. It's a big, dying buffalo, and I reckon you're another vulture caught the scent... so why did you come here in the first place, anyway?'

> What do/say?

>>19776309
Kinda want to just go to the party but I know we should do this anyways.

You are of course also free to ask more specific questions if you want to.

>>19776359
Don't have a big enough ship to be a major power in extra-system trading, so I needed a small place like this with plenty of work to pay for some upgrades, spread my wings a bit in a place where I can grow before trying any of the really big jobs.

>>19776359
Well we can always just give the money reason saying we are broke and heard this was the place to make quick cash. It's not like we mind doing illegal stuff THAT much. I'm guessing we like legal jobs more though because they are generally safer and you don't get into trouble of the law but damn it we need money. (Wish we could say we also have a lot of debt to pay but that would just cause trouble down the line.)

>>19776359

I prefer not to talk about that in too much detail.
Long story short, it would be nice to be somewhere with plenty of work for a small ship. I might have plans for aggressive expansion later on...

>>19776397
>>19776417
>>19776419

'Well... I'd much rather not talk about the specifics,' you say.

'Fair enough. So... it's the business then, I'm guessing?'

'Yep. The inter-stellar routes haven't a space for a ship like mine, obviously. So I thought I'd come to a system with plenty of short jump routes, lots of planets - lots of work. I'd prefer legal work, to be honest... but given what we did in New Roanoke...'

'Nah, it'll buff out,' Olga waves her hand dismissively. 'For someone so willing to kill I'm surprised you like legal work better. But well, if you like treading the grey zones, this place is great for you. The Nexus Worlds only ever guard their food and supply shipments, and the Interstellar Gates. Outside of that, people have to find their own help. That's where we come in, isn't it, you and me? What is it now, Boris?'

'Sorry about it, Major.' It's the one-eared man. 'Just got notification from downstairs. It seems Sir Kensington is here as well.'

'Oh great, brilliant. Are they all here just for the party?'

'It seems Sir Kensington donated some funds towards party, Major. He is here for opening ceremony, but perhaps longer.'

'Well, well...' Olga nods. 'Nelson, you'll have to excuse us. I should probably see you at the party later?' And with that she gets up, and Boris politely requests you vacate the premises.

'You going to the party? Deck 3 is the party deck. Deck 2 is the big shopping area, and Deck 1 is the middle-class accommodations area.' Yulia stretches and yawns, an appealing sight.

> What do/say?

>>19776463

Let's go to the party. But before that, check our payment, make sure the money is in our account.
Looks like a good time to network with people.

>>19776497
Well I wanted to go to the party to begin with so let's do that.

party time considering we have 10 days to do so first go shopping after making sure the we got paid then party.

>>19776497
>>19776532
>>19776542

Making sure you've been paid takes all of ten minutes at the local exchequer's. Well, looks like Olga is a person of her word.

Then it's up to the party deck. The moment the doors are opened, you are immediately ushered in by two lovely brunettes, given a glass of wine, your dirty leather jacket taken away and treated like an expensive suit. The main hall of the deck, it turns out, is a grand affair - a round building swarming with well-dressed men and women, several fountains and plaster statues around which are the tables of food, and above you a transparent roof, showing the swathe of stars and nebulae and the deep darkness.

Yulia didn't come with you; she said she was going to find somewhere to sleep. That might be for the best; you don't even know what to do here yourself. There must be at least... six, seven hundred people in here? Not to mention you also see rooms and walkways leading to other decks, no doubt for more drinking, dancing, or vigorous activities.

> What do? Man, you're lost. There's food... drinks... you don't know anyone here, though...

>>19776463
Wait are we even dressed for this party how fancy is it if it's fancy at all? Like do they have tuxedos because if they do that could make things awkward we might be better off shopping

You do see that most of the people here are well dressed. However, since you have the invitation chit, any possible complaints about your dress code are not voiced.

You soon notice why - your chit in fact does have a scan-tag stating that it was given to Olga Yekimova. People here probably don't want to offend her...

>>19776613
Shit man this seems a little to fancy for us. Feel a little overwhelmed we probably never went to a party this High-Class.
I know no one is gonna ask about how we look but still Jesus Christ.

>>19776613

Hmm. Let's just... drink some wine. Get some canapes from passing waitresses. If there's no one to talk to, at least we get food.

>>19776667
>>19776670

Yeah, no shit - this is rather overwhelming. Even the waitrons, you notice, have their uniforms in silk. You wonder how the Strelsy might look here - Olga would be glam, but her men are seriously the opposite of glam...

'Pate on whole-grain toast for you, sir?' It's a waitress, deep brown eyes and a cute smile, with three trays balanced expertly on her hands. 'Or would you prefer the scallops with wasabi mousse on a rice cake?'

'Tough choice,' you say, trying to buy time and figure out what's what. Are you allergic to pate? Wait, what's in pate? Just then, the waitress steps a little closer.

'Are you... are you like a pirate?'

> What choose?

>>19776714

Eh... let's go with the pate. Is this all real food?

'Maybe... do you want to find out later? When do you knock off?'

Let's just relax.

F yeah, Spacefarer quest!
Give me a bit to read the thread.

File: 1341679504028.png-(87 KB, 750x287, 20090928.png)

>>19776714
Whoa damn lady you don't know me like that. That shit hurts

>>19776714
Seriously though do we look like a pirate?

>>19776714
Only when beautiful women ask me to be.
Take one of each of the foods she offered to try them. We probably won't have an opportunity to try things like this again any time soon

>>19776780
>>19776760

> Wait, what?

Oh, to clarify, she seems to be saying it in a 'you look cool, like a pirate' way, rather than a 'oh god, you board ships take hostages and slaughter innocents, you fucking criminal' sort of way.

Well, still. 'Woah, lady. You don't know me like that. But I guess you could always find out...'

She smiles coyly at you, and then gestures to the pate on toast. 'I think this one's much nicer, really.'

'Really?' You take one. 'So... when do you knock off?'

'In... about four hours, maybe? I don't have the time.' She isn't walking away even after you take the canapes. Well. It's not like anyone's itching to come talk to you anyway...

> What do/say?

>>19776814
Sigh.
The one type of situation I fail at.
Thank you, social awkwardness.

>>19776814

Well, take the scallop as well then.

Then ask her to name a convenient spot. We'll be there in four hours.

>>19776814
So she works at these high class parties all the time or what? Seems like a job you have to be all proper and whatnot. Having to be a stiff like that all day must suck

>>19776864
>>19776887

You reach for the scallop as well, and eat it. Ooh, this one's spicy. You didn't quite expect that from the green thing on top.

Meanwhile, your daring appears to have impressed the girl a little. 'Well... how about over there, by the entrance to the port room? I'll be there after I... clean up and change, you know.'

'Sure. Poor girl, you. Do you do this all the time?'

'Only sometimes,' she says. 'Other times I work in the bars over here, but they're all booked so I have to wear a proper uniform today.' She's about to say more, when suddenly there is a hush before an announcement.

'If any guests are interested, Emmelia Kensington-Holmes-Carter will be holding a piano recital in ten minutes in the Green Room. The Space Spinner will also be open in half an hour, so anyone into dancing - go wild!'

'Hmm, hmm,' the waitress says. 'I like piano music. Maybe we'll meet there again?'

She then walks away, smiling.

> What do/say?

>>19776934

Let's go for piano. Is this kensington related to that lord kensington olga was talking about?

>>19776934
Well we came to this party might as well go check out the sights so let's go to the recital. It would be a pretty funny contrast though comparing ourselves to the people around us.

>>19776972
>>19776982

You watch the crowd around you, still scanning for patterns. It seems that some of the older, more mature ones are heading for the Green Room now, and you follow them while listening in.

As you walk, your suspicions are confirmed. 'That's Kensington's niece, isn't she? Emmelia?'

'Oh yes. Well brought up, I have to say.'

'You have to hand it to Aloysius, to teach Emmelia like this.'

'Certainly. Especially considering what he does-'

'Hush now, mate, people are listening all around us.' The older man gestures around him and you look around. Are a lot of people here criminals of some sort? You do feel an air of secretiveness around a lot of them, as if they have gotten accustomed to hiding.

The Green Room is named because it is upholstered and decorated in shades of green; despite the potential for horrible ugliness, the place actually looks tasteful, almost like being in a forest. A young woman with sharp features, and red hair flowing to her bared shoulder blades, is sitting at the piano. You wonder if you should go sit farther up front, or just hang around...

'I say, young man,' you hear someone mutter beside you. It's an unassuming old man, with a bald top. 'Pardon me but you don't look like the sort who's into piano. What gives, eh?'

> What do/say?

>>19777034
Well you are right I don't really care but since I was here I thought I might as well go you know. Just doing it to do it you know

>>19777069
It's not like we ever been to a piano recital. Just trying new things

>>19777034
"Just because someone doesn't fit a normal look, doesn't mean they don't like something. Also, there's always a time to start."
Then excuse ourselves, since we would like a closer seat to 'hear the music better'.

>>19777034

Also, someone hands you a programme.

> 'Rhapsody of New Towns', Albert Langendorff
> Hungarian Rhapsody, no. 2, Franz Liszt
> Arabesque no. 1, Claude Debussy
> Sonata 'Starlight in Station', Thomas Kong-Kriegel
> Waltz 2, 'Salem Witches' Waltz', John Voss

Dear god, you don't know any of the names in here...

>>19777091
At least this ain't a test it's not like we have to know the names to listen to it.

>>19777090
>>19777082
>>19777069

'Well, sir, just because I don't dress like you does not mean we have no common interests.'

The old man chuckles as you walk down towards the front, nodding. 'True, true. Looks deceive. Well, I hope you won't be disappointed by Emmy.'

You go all the way to the second row, and then sit down there... and the old man promptly sits down next to you. And then there is a round of applause, the doors are closed, and Emmy begins to play.

... you have to say, it is quite the revelation. You don't really know anything about this music, but just looking at Emmy... her red hair dances as her hands flit around the keyboard in a blur, and then suddenly it slows and she sits upright, pushing away from the piano as its sound washes over you. Her eyes are half closed, and she shakes her head and visibly mutters as she plays...

When it finally comes to an end with a frantic, rising melody of a witches' waltz, the hall bursts into appreciative applause, and then Emmy takes a bow and leaves. It isn't long before the cries for an encore drive her back, however.

'Hmm. Normally, what I would do I suppose is I would determine a piece to play myself. But since I haven't really brought my notes with me... how about you?'

You? Yes, you. Emmy is pointing directly at you with her microphone. 'How about you give me a suggestion there, sir?'

> What do/say?

>>19777167

Oh shit. Um... la campanella?

>>19777167
Well why not just ask everyone what they want to hear? Can we ask her to give us the microphone and ask the audience ourselves? It's unorthodox but hey it's one way to get out of this.

hello is anyone else out there you can also make suggestions as well or just second someone else choice

By any chance do we know about the true classics like Mozart? We may be laughed at for 'a commoner taste' but I think it's better than being struck dumb.

>>19777196
>>19777207

Man, you don't know what that piece is. But you think of a plan; standing up, you turn around to the rest of the audience and gesture for them to speak their minds.

It seems that everyone is in agreement that La Campanella would be an awesome way for Emmy to end her recital. She looks on in some surprise at you, and then giggles and shakes her head before breaking into a lovely, light-hearted and yet insanely difficult-sounding piano piece. You don't even believe her hands could dart so far, so quickly!

Then, all too soon, it is over, again to more applause and cheering. To your surprise, the old man beside you stands up and strides onto the stage, and you watch as Emmy gives him a running hug.

> What do/say? The recital appears to be over. You have... maybe 2 hours before meeting that waitress, if you want.

>>19777256

Also, after watching a little more, you blink in surprise as they both look at you again. You see the older man say something, and then Emmy puts a hand over her mouth, looking rather embarrassed.

Then she turns to look at you again, and even gives you a little wave. Not many others notice, except for a man behind you who leans in.

'You lucky bastard,' he says. 'Or maybe you unlucky bastard...'

Huh?

>>19777256
It might only be kosher to compliment Emmy on such a performance. If we, a dude who knows jack and shit about piano and the pieces involved, can be impressed by what she's played, then it's only fair.

Plus we get to hobknob with important people.

Just be respectful and polite in our approach if we do take this course of action.

>>19777256
Thank god my hasty and poorly thought out plan worked.
Hmm what to do well we could eat some more or go shopping no reason why we should wait 2 hours for the waitress.
We also might want to leave for a bit after escaping embarrassment like that.

>>19777300

This, then we go out and have a bit more food. Maybe that old man is Kensingson?

It seems that in later days we may have interesting opportunities to find other crime bosses here. Just saying.

>>19777310
I also think Emmy's taken a shine to us, given OP's second post.
And given the gentleman behind us' reaction, this can turn out either awesome or awesomer.

frayed by hermitude

lol

tiny dancer

>>19777300
>>19777302
>>19777310

Steeling yourself, you stand up and walk to the stage, waiting for the two of them to come down, and then nod to Emmy. 'I must say, Miss...'

'Just Kensington will do,' she says, smiling. 'Actually, just Emmy will do.'

'Well, Emmy, I must say - for a person who doesn't know anything about piano, I am thoroughly impressed.'

'Thank you! That's lovely praise.' She then looks around to make sure most of the guests are gone or being dealt with by her agents. 'To be honest, I thought you were the guy planted to tell me to play something else. My uncle said it's the good-looking guy next to him.'

'There's two of those,' Kensington says, and then points to Emmy. 'She doesn't like to show off. Playing Liszt for an encore is almost always showing off. Now, would you like to have some food then Emmy?'

'I can eat a cow whole, minus the horns! Actually... would you like to join us?' Emmy looks at you. 'Or would you rather be talking to all the pretty people outside in the ballroom? I want a steak, uncle. We're going to Deck 6. Gauchos.'

... that sounds expensive. Also... is this a set-up?

> What do/say?

>>19777256

ohshit, its kensington... and he knows ya... oh lawd

>>19777358

say yes, you could learn shit during the meal if you play your cards right.

>>19777358
It is absolutely a set-up but roll with it because who gives a fuck? We just got paid after a hard job, let's treat ourselves a little.
Plus it'd be rude to turn down the niece of the named individual that Olga seemed to have some concern over.

(as in we'll probably be space trash if we don't go)

>>9777358
This girl seems like a rare perfect cross between elegant and a tomboy.
Let's take the offer. Getting to know people some, especially higher ups, a little rarely can hurt.

>>19777358
How much more time left till our little encounter with the waitress.

>>19777403
>>19777388
>>19777380

Whoosh. That's what it's like going up to Deck 6. The elevator shaft is transparent, allowing you an immense panoramic view - of the station, the planet below you, and the sun beyond that. And even farther out, trails of stars.

'Ah, I love the view,' Emmy sighs.

'You'll love the steak more.'

'That's true!' She does prove it, though. You amble into the restaurant - everyone here is again wearing coats and long flowing dresses and carrying little handbags. You are quite literally a dead rat washed up in a palace canal, or so it seems.

... and so it seems to be a testimony to the position of the Kensingtons that your unkempt presence is unquestioned, and you are treated with utmost care. A waiter spreads cloth over your lap; another gives you tap water; a waitress has house red delivered.

'I'm going all out, uncle. I'm going to have the entrecote.'

'What, the whole thing?'

'I can finish it! How about you, Nelson?'

You look at the menu. It's got everything. You haven't had actual meat in... oh, I don't know, three years?

> What do/say? Order extravagantly? Modestly?

>>19777416

About 2 hours, as mentioned. Come think of it, the dinner here might take longer than that though.

Then again, between the prospect of a good steak from a *real* cow, a conversation with 'Lord' Kensington-whatever-whatever, and also Emmy - her cheeks, you notice, are lightly sprinkled with freckles - you think you can stay here a bit.

>>19777458
Yeah that's what I was worried about. I hate blowing people off like that but hey let's stick around for a bit and see how things go.

>>19777481

This. Also, let's order something nice and big. It would be unmanly otherwise.

>>19777443
Well, what sorta numbers are we talking about here for an extravagant meal choice? Cause we do have a decent bit of dosh, but probably shouldn't blow it all on hearty food if we wanna upgrade our ship.

>>19777516
>>19777513
>>19777481

Real meat is serious money in a system where most people eat analogues of some sort or other. You see some steaks that cost 520 credits a pop, actually. And the one that Emmy ordered is... woah, 400.

There's a 360 credit option for a T-bone steak, and you can upgrade it to 400 credits as well - that's 1% of your total funds now, seriously!

There's also cheaper cuts, but even the cheapest is about 200 credits. There you are for eating posh. Kensington, meanwhile, has decided to order a tenderloin. He then sits back and looks at you.

'So, while you agonise... it's interesting to know how you got to come here. Was it one of the other... community leaders? Siobhan O'Shaughnessy perhaps? Or perhaps even dear Yekimova?'

> What do/say/order?

>>19777555
You find out if you just got the data on who gave me the invitation to begin with. Why ask me anyways? I'm pretty sure you can do that yourself. (Not angry here just curious)

>>19777555
Mid-price range.

"I was originally just doing short and simple delivery runs, but my latest job was a bit more complex. Luckily I did well and it was from the right person."

> Sorry, making dinner now. Will be slow.

You end up ordering a sirloin steak, which sets you back 300. Oh well, there you are. Kensington nods.

'Well, you needn't ask me for that info, I bet...' you say, and Kensington looks at you.

'That is true, of course, young man. But I think that as a businessman, it's good to indulge elders every once in a while. That was an interesting thing you did down at Roanoke. You weren't alone, were you? Also, what do you think of that Russian lady?'

> What do/say?

>>19777555
don't talk about how much we got paid. The guy Just Might offer to pay for us if we keep it casual.

>>19777665
Man you sure do know a lot still I kinda wish you didn't know about that. Well I'm not to sure how to think about her because one of the reason it got so crazy was because she "misinformed" me but then again I would have been fucked near the end without her.

>>19777747
>>19777673

Oh, but of course you don't mention your wages. That would be churlish and disadvantageous. Emmy is looking at you while she sips her red wine. You notice a drop of the wine splash onto the white tablecloth, and the colour resembles her hair rather.

'Well, I would say I got f-... into trouble, from Olga conveniently not telling me certain things. But then again, I would have been truly in trouble, if not for her intervention at the end.'

To your surprise, Kensington laughs at that. 'Oh, seriously, Nelson! I guess the point is that you wouldn't know, of course. But that's what Olga does for most of the people who work with her for the first time.' He shakes his head. 'I guess, in this business, it is essential to have some respect for one's rivals, and I must confess a respect for her. You said misinformation - so what happened? And did you really manage to do that doozy alone?'

> What do/say? You're not sure if you should reveal Yulia. Actually, you know jackshit about Yulia. This is proving to be a possible liability...

>>19777810

"oh god, i have horrible, oh my the poops! i have teh poops!"
run to bathroom
never come back

>>19777810
Well there was some guy who betrayed me and fucked me over it was some fella named Tomas (that was his name right) and can we not talk about that after what happened I just kinda want to relax for a little while.

>>19777810

Ask him about what he does. Say we're not at liberty to reveal our crew members.

>>19777875

>implying he doesnt already know, and wants a name from you rather than tracking it down

> Damn. Internet ate my message. Give me 15 minutes.

>>19777810
"No, I had help. Wonderful little psychopath. Can't say I'm at liberty to go naming names to Olga's every rival. There was another guy too, had a different job. He sold us down the river though. Can't remember his name off the top of my head or else I'd return the favor."

You plead allowance to relax for a bit, and Kensington laughs. 'Apologies. Of course. We're here for leisure, isn't it, Emmy?'

'I'm here for the meat,' Emmy says, rubbing her tummy. Soon the meat does arrive; yours is a medium-sized slab of meat, red juices leaking out of it, onto a plate filled with potatoes and vegetables. *Real* potatoes and real vegetables. Shit, dude...

You eat mostly in silence, while Kensington and Emmy make small talk, commenting on the quality of the meat, the wine, and also of recitals and the station. It seems the two of them are regulars to this place. Kensington then starts to talk about operations, but Emmy frowns and shuts him up.

'Look at her,' he gestures to his lovely niece and laughs. 'I taught her etiquette, and now she's enforcing it. If you'd like to ask anything, though, please go ahead.'

> What do/say/ask?

>>19778177

So... are you in station 1 just for fun? Vacation?

>>19778273

'Fun, well... you could say that. After all I was one of the shareholders for the little party downstairs.'

You then realise you can actually see the party going on downstairs from where you're sitting. 'Hmm. Who are the other donors, then? Does this happen frequently?'

'Quite... there aren't many opportunities for rich people from planetside to have fun. You've seen New Roanoke. New Jamestown's just like that. New Salem's worse. New Lexington...'

'New Lexington's music hall has *terrible* acoustics,' Emmy says before chuffing down a large strip of beef. She seems really happy to be eating.

'What she said. Well, I'm surprised you didn't know. Olga also contributed, a bit. Therefore your little invitation chit. There's also Harsanyi... Molenthal... Katzendorffer... Goranovic... the lot. Not sure if they're all here, though. I do hope not.'

> What do/say?

>>19778177
Ask her if she has any other hobbies or interests besides the piano.

>>19778366
Sorry was at the restroom I'm reading up real quick
>>19778375
go with this for now

>>19778446
>>19778375

'So, Emmy... besides the piano do you have any hobbies? I mean, it's an intense thing isn't it, piano?'

'It's quite intense, yeah,' she nods. 'Two hours a day, thereabouts. But I've been slacking off. I like travelling in the deep black, though. And I also like playing card games and mahjong.'

'This woman's mahjong skills are not to be doubted.'

'It's partly luck, though,' Emmy says. 'I think I'm quite lucky in general. Which is handy, isn't it? What about you though, Nelson, what do you do? Mostly hauling stuff then?'

> What do/say? Come think of it, what are your hobbies? And don't say wanking. It's a posh restaurant.

>>19778366
What's the worst city on planet side anyways. No offense but that planet looks like a pretty shitty place to live

>>19778492
Yeah mostly nothing to interesting usually

>>19778492
"This is probably the most interesting week of my life so far, can't say I mind it."

>>19778496
>>19778516

'Worst city? Wow. I think a lot of cities would tie...' Kensington shrugs. 'Well, between here and Armando, I think Armando's nicer in general.'

Armando is the second frontier planet in this system (it's a rare system to have three inhabitable planets, but there you are.) It is apparently much nicer in terms of climate though, which may account for why it's better to live there.

You tell Emmy you don't do much, and she sighs. 'That's a pity... work's pretty tough then, eh? We do have things to haul, don't we uncle?'

'What happened to not talking about work?'

'We're done eating,' Emmy points out. She is right. You are properly stuffed, and this was a damned good meal - the fragrance of the meat, its juices and fats, continue to linger in your mouth. You watch as she dabs her mouth with the napkin. 'Dessert?'

> What do/say? Do you want dessert? It looks pretty expensive too, but it sounds exquisite. Wait, are they saying that the chocolate fondant is *real* chocolate? Where did they even get real cocoa from?!

>>19778636
How long was that meal anyways that would depend if we got chocolate or not. Well how expensive it is also changes whether or not we get it.

>>19778577

'Hehe, so you're into that sort of work?' Emmy says.

'Mokroye delo,' Kensington muses. 'It was the Russians came up with that term, you know. To be honest... we could offer things like that too,' he says.

You notice Emmy seems totally at home with discussing assassinations in a posh steakhouse. Also, you've got about half an hour left before going to see the waitress.

>>19778693
Shit and knowing how long desserts could take it might be a bad idea to stay here unless we are planning to blow off the waitress. We also still have to buy a sweet ass knife. Wait are we buying all of our stuff from Olga or no including the knife?

>>19778744

Olga says she'll be getting in touch with people. You probably can trust her connections...

Meanwhile, it's probably polite to respond to people who are talking to you...

Since we've got a nice girl in front of us now, that we're already learning about.
I just want to say I'd vote for staying instead of excusing ourself to go meat a random waitress.

No dessert. We ask if they will be here tomorrow as well - it'd be lovely to meet Emmy again, if she doesn't mind.

As for the job offers... perhaps we shouldn't ruin an evening talking about work?

>>9778693
If they're saying it as an offer.
"I might take you up on a job sometime, but I do not need one quite at the moment."

>>19778693
"Not so much I enjoy it." Frown contemplatively. "It's just certainly better than hauling cargo with no real goal... and by the way, is that a job offer?"

>>19778776
It's not like anything gonna happen between us and Emmy. I don't know it's just not in my nature to blow off people like that even if it's a stranger. We still need to respond the people in front of us and we got NO idea how expensive chocolate is.
>>19778744
(my post btw)

>>19778841
Second this

>>19778861
>>19778858
>>19778841
>>19778840
>>19778776

You frown, thinking this over. 'Would that be a job offer then, Mr. Kensington?'

'It might be,' he says, thoughtfully. 'Well, the hauling bit anyway. That's always open. We always have things that need transport.'

'I'll think about that, then. Would you still be around tomorrow?' You smile. 'It would be nice to meet Emmy again.'

'Awww,' she says, grinning. 'Yes, we'll be here for a few days yet. There's work needs doing, see.'

You wonder what sort of work it is, but sense there's no point asking. And with that, you decide to take your leave of them. You reach for your databook, but Kensington waves it off.

'My treat this evening.'

'I can't possibly-'

'Tomorrow, treat Emmy to ice cream. I assure you, you will pay the worth of this meal.' Emmy slaps her uncle's shoulder as he laughs, and you leave.

By now, Deck 3 has pretty much changed. The buffet has changed into a dessert-based buffet, with fountains of chocolate analogue and all sorts of other sweets. You can hear loud dance music coming from several of the rooms, where more vigorous partying is going on.

Ten minutes left to meet the waitress...

> Do anything in particular?

>>9778861
I know, I was just voicing my opinion. The biggest problem would be just jumping out if the conversation when it was time.
As long as we aren't leaving them midsentance or something, I don't care too much.

> Argh, errand running. 15 minutes. Sorry people!

>>19778961
out OF the conversation

>>19778959
Have some cheese dipped in chocolate, have a smoke, then make our way over to the meeting place.

>>19779025
same thing basically just grab some snacks and move on over to the meeting spot. Some chocolate would be nice

>>19779077
>>19779025

You move over to the cheese table, grab some of the cheese and have it dunked in chocolate. Clearly, from the looks of some of the guests, this is an unusual combination.

The music from the dancing halls is seriously loud, the beats making the whole station appear to tremble. You shrug and light up as you head over to the meeting spot - right in front of a dance club. The bouncer, a big man with a moustache, looks suspiciously at you, but you show him your chit.

And then, after a few minutes of smoking, you feel a hand on your shoulder and turn around. It's that waitress, except she's now wearing a sleeveless top and has a cigarette in her mouth. 'You came! That's nice of you.'

'I try to be nice. You done?'

'Oh yes. There are currently five couples fucking in the locker room,' she says, sweeping her hair to one side. 'Can't stand the noise. But they seem to enjoy it...'

Perks of the waiting staff, eh... 'so, pirate... any plans?'

> What do then?

>>19779198
Sorry, I'm NOPEing out.
I'm on a 'Butler with Space Marine Teapot' Bing right now.
I can not into this scenario right now.

>>19779198
ask her what she wants to do. perhaps offer to let her fly a space ship...

after we make it take off, ofcourse.

>>19779198

Well, let's cut to the chase and take her to our room. If we even have rooms. Did Yulia get us a room?

bump

>>19779198
"Well we going always stick with the cliches get some ice cream, watch a movie, ect. To be honest I haven't been on this station that long to know what the hell you do for fun around here." The space ship idea would be nice if it actually looked good and if we had food in there to begin with.

>>19779289
>>19779306
>>19779309

> Nopeing out as in permanently? Because of a single random potentially sexual encounter? Blimey, some people here have high standards...

'I could get you to fly my spaceship,' you say. 'After I launch it, of course.'

Did you even mean to turn it into this sort of statement? The waitress laughs and nods, though. 'Sure. I'll... see what my reflexes can do.'

As it turns out, her reflexes aren't bad at all. And neither are yours! Your yelling and grunting, however, does wake Yulia up - and neither of you figure it out until she appears at the entrance of the bridge with a gun in hand.

'What the fucking- oh.' Well, the waitress is on you now. That's not possible to deny. 'Huh. Sorry. I'll bugger off then...'

After a quick shower, the waitress says she needs to get some rest for the next shift and is off. 'See you around at the party, maybe?'

> What do/say? So Yulia's sleeping on board as well. Clever girl... You must say, the ships at this landing yard are grand-looking ones.

>>19779330

> Fuck, didn't see this. Well, there's always tomorrow. You appear to have made a favourable impression after all.

> Then again, who knows? She might not remember you tomorrow. Well, there's always other people to explore the station with. Like Yulia! Okay, maybe not.

>>19779403
I think he just have a small problem like what he said at his post here
>>19776847

>>19779443
No problem man it happens. I was trying to think of ideas but I know like almost nothing about this station so I just wrote that up instead.

>>19779448

> Fair enough. Sorry about that.

Well, you reckon you should go to bed yourself as well? Incidentally you checked your fridge - Yulia's eaten three packets of your ready meals. Seriously!

>>19779403
Well I kinda want to go shopping but having no idea how much the stuff we are going to buy from Olga is going to cost let's just buy some food for the ship. This protein sludge tastes like shit.

>>19779545
And apparently buy a lock for our fridge god damn

>>19779550
>>19779545
>>19779572
Go to bed and do this in the morning

>>19779550
>>19779545
>>19779572
>>19779588

When you wake up, you look around your ship and find that Yulia's gone off again. Seriously, where does she go?

Then you check your fridge and, surprisingly, the three ready meal packs have been replaced. Huh...

Taking out your databook, you gain access to the station comms system, and it gives you a brief run-down of the facilities in this station. In Deck 2 there is apparently a massive, 24 hour hypermarket where you can get most general things; the rest of the space is devoted to novelty stores and nice restaurants. Deck 1 is mainly apartments, and you can't gain access without a key for obvious reasons.

To your surprise, Deck 5 appears to be a conference centre with many small meeting rooms, and today it seems they are all booked. That's intriguing. Meanwhile, on Deck 3, the party is still going on - the cinemas, cafes and gaming arcades have been re-opened. The casino's always open anyway. The main hall has been cleaned up and the buffet is now in breakfast mode.

Fucking hell... just as you're mulling over this, the door slides open and Yulia comes in. 'Just found out something interesting, Nelson. They're holding some meetings today, the lot of them. I mean, like, the crime lords. Including Olga.'

> What do/say?

File: 1341694772156.jpg-(31 KB, 509x450, JayneCobbCunninHat.jpg)

rolled 98 = 98

>>19779545
Yulia needs some training in caution if she is to be our first mate.

She is More Jayne than Zoe.

Seriously would you want Jayne as your first mate?

>>19779717
Well good thing I ain't a crime lord and got to go some dumb meeting. Anyways I kinda assumed after hearing who funded the party and seeing all the meeting rooms booked.

stay away from deck 5 and go to the breakfast buffet then go shopping for stuff we need

>>19779743
>>19779717
could we listen in? - doubtfull.

still something important is afoot anyway. we do have a waitress and a crime boss daughter to entertain today and to do some bonding with our overly gunhappy and safety adverse would be first officer recruit.

>>19779775
>>19779766
>>19779762
>>19779743

'Yulia, I don't recall giving you permission to eat all my food.'

'Oh come on, I got you new ones! Besides, I got you *better* ones. Peanut butter cookie batter dessert!'

You have to admit, that sounds better than the shit you got. The hypermarket here is something, isn't it... also, you say you figured it's a crime boss meeting anyway, after hearing about the party. 'It sounds like good cover for what they're doing. Get everyone to party downstairs. No one will blow up the station that way.'

'Eh, but aren't you missing the main implication here, Nelson? Crime boss meetings mean new jobs! Plenty of new jobs, because plenty of people to hob nob with! Speaking of nob, who was that girl you were fucking last night?'

'Waitress.'

'I thought it was the pianist girl.'

'Don't be insane. I'm not suicidal.' Hmm. Hob nob... that does make sense though. You wonder.

You head off to the breakfast buffet with Yulia in tow. She brings two mounds of food to the table and eats it all, methodically, while you look around. Yeah, the crime bosses aren't here. You wonder who's here. And you wonder if you can find out...?

> What do/say? It seems now is a good time to position yourself for lucrative contracts.

>>19779832

Hmm. I think we should try to check up on the meeting schedule for the conferences.

Then we just go and do some shopping, for knives and maybe armour.

>>19779832
Well it's not like we can go up to the meeting ourselves. Yulia should be able to help us spot out whose underling is whose.

>>19779935
Olga is getting that stuff no worries about that and by getting I mean she is going to sell us some later except maybe the Armour I don't know if we specified for that.

>>19779953
>>19779942
>>19779935

While eating, you take out your databook and check the conference meeting times. It's surprisingly easy to access them; they appear mostly to last until late afternoon today.

Meanwhile, you ask Yulia to keep an eye out for anyone who seems like they might be from a criminal organisation, and before long she's pointing them out, in between stuffing herself with bacon and sausages. Seriously, how does she keep that figure while eating like that?

'Oh. I think I know that guy! He's from the Str-'

'God's sake, Yulia, don't yell it out loud!'

'Sorry.' She pops another quail's egg. 'I just got excited. These sausages are real! Well, some are. It's like a treasure hunt.' She pokes at them. She sounds like a curious child now, as she looks around. 'I think, Nelson, we're pretty much surrounded by underlings. There might even be some people from planetside. Like the Connollys.'

The family whose candidates in New Roanoke you just slaughtered. Ah, shit...

'We gotta act natural,' Yulia says. 'Actually, Nelson. Are you really keeping me on board? Why?'

> What do/say?

>>19780009
You are like a overexcited puppy. You need a home and some place to grow up.

And i need some company and somone to watch my back or space madness will get me.


People have a habit of ending up dead if they go alone in life. I have no intention towards it, and you are affable enough to warrant a return in kind.

I do think Living would be something you should be interested in, although from the way you act its more of a miracle that you are alive....

>>19779403
I just meant playing in the scene.
I'm digging this quest, I don't plan on dropping.
MSQ is messing with my grufness right now.

>>19780009
To be honest I'm not sure why. It could because I'm a pretty lousy shot but fucking great with knife or other "hands on things".
(I have no real idea WHY are we letting her stay on board you other guys wanted her for some reason. I got no reason against it just I don't know why.)

>>19780073
Oh shit space madness is serous business.

>>19780093
>>19780073
>>19780084

> That's all right mate, sorry if I sounded tetchy.

You think it over. Why exactly did you think to keep Yulia? You suppose, if someone saw Yulia and didn't know anything about her - why not keep a beautiful woman on your ship to ease the loneliness, eh? But then you do know rather more about Yulia now.

'Well. You're better than I am with a gun,' you say.

'Damn right I am.'

'You also don't know when to shut up, and when you're not rabid you run around like a puppy on caffeine. So I'll keep you on board and you can calm the fuck down, while I won't go mad from space madness.'

'Wait. Is space madness real? Like those ancients who went into the deep black and couldn't get back?'

You sigh, and are about to disabuse her of her views when your databook buzzes. You put it on the table and read it... it's a text from Emmy.

'Hey there. Fancy turning around?'

You turn around, and she's there, eating an apple. She waves back at you. She's wearing a little black dress now, her hair tied in a ponytail. Yulia grins.

'Scoooore...'

'Shut up.'

'I mean, she's the daughter of Kensington, isn't she? Dude. Go look for employment.'

> What do/say?

>>19780177
casual conversation

ask about the ice cream

>>19780009
"As long as you keep yourself alive, useful, under control, and following my orders, I would really enjoy having you as part of my crew."

>Leave to avoid a part
>ends next post

>>19780177
I think they already gave the okay had dinner with them so calm down a little anyways I gotta go with her so have fun with the buffet. (Not a hostile tone btw)

>>19780009
Why not? you seem like you'd make a fair travel companion, and I'd rather not get into fights aboard my ship alone again.plus any more jobs like the last one and I'll need help.

Though if you are going to stay aboard we'll need to discuss things like pay and duties.

>>19780177
"Well we do owe you some ice cream but something tells me you are more inclined to some spirits or cocktails... but that's just me..."

be charming. be efficient.

Have a plant to kill everyone you meet.


getting better contacts with a different crime family is a good way to diversify our job offers and allow us a better choice, while we are still freelancing about and not being part of anyone yet...

>>19780276
Man we promised ice cream so we are going to get her ice cream. Just offer the choice

>>19780252
>>19780258
>>19780215
>>19780214

'Well, also, that's a touching thing about wanting me to stay. I'll have you know though - I'm still alive now, despite being crazy, and I know I'm crazy.'

'Yeah...' you didn't really catch her point. 'Anyway. We'll knock those details out later. Finish my portion of the breakfast.'

'I was going to anyway!'

You head over to Emmy, who bites into the apple and then turns to you while chewing. 'Mm mrrr rmm mrmrm.'

'What? Anyway... so, what's this about ice cream? I should thank your uncle for buying me a meal.'

'Nah, it's fine. Also, he's lying. I am totally not an ice cream addict. And to prove it to you, shall we go down to Deck 2 and have some ice cream?'

> Go?

Also, you ask about her uncle, and she shrugs. 'Upstairs, meeting. Will be out soon. They're talking interesting things.'

Does she really know everything about her uncle's business? This is... slightly weird.

> What do/say?

>>19780331
Yes, go. The girl said she has a lack of an addiction to prove.
Maybe mention she seems to have a good business mind.

File: 1341697975468.gif-(130 KB, 650x300, scoops_of_ice_cream.gif)

>>19780331
Shrug and roll with it. Time for so ice cream

>>19780380
>>19780394
>>19780331

Indeed.

We have our Inara to recruit. actualy more of a combination between Inara and Zoe.

Yulia beeing a combination of Jayne and River.- the less sane and social functional parts of both.

lets see how this one turns out.- since she wants space ship flight getting her on board as crew or on semi-regular basis might not be that bad either.

>>19780432
Wait what Ain't this a crime boss niece and you want to recruit her? I'm confused did I misunderstood what you were trying to say?

I like the Firefly crew comparisons, since I've actually seen the show.
Really helps plan our crew out.

>>19780454
Nope not at all.


If she would like it, no point in saying no to it. not something to be actively pursued but more mentioned in passing, should she raise the subject of ships and stuff.


else we continue being our charming self.

>>19780432
>>19780394
>>19780380
>>19780295
>>19780276

'Are you sure you don't want whiskey instead? Or some other sort of spirits?'

'What makes you think I like drinking spirits?' She smiles. 'I prefer port, actually. And they do have port ice cream!'

The elevator ride down to Deck 2 ends to reveal a massive vista of capitalism. People are strolling about in a brightly lit, spacious cathedral of shops, and the hypermarket at its very end. Emmy quickly puts her arm in yours and guides you off, through smaller walkways and quiet parts of the mall, until you reach a small ice cream joint.

She orders a five-scoop deluxe with three toppings, and then informs you that that's for herself. 'Wait. I thought you said you weren't addicted.'

'Am not. I shall eat it in a controlled way, to prove it.' She laughs. 'Go on then, you.'

> What order? Suggestions for flavours welcome, not that it really matters.

As you sit down and watch Emmy dig into her large waffle bowl of ice cream, she looks up and catches your gaze.

'Hmm. I'm wondering something, Nelson. Did you get tangled with Olga deliberately?' She eats another scoop. 'I mean... you get with her, you get with the underbelly of this system... you get with that, there's no end of trouble. You know that, right?'

> What do/say?

>>19780480
Well I just don't see it working out at all due to all the cash she has no real reason to say yes when she has the money to just get a ship herself and do what she wants with it.

>>19780490
Double scoop of the best ice cream in the world, chocolate chip cookie dough.

>>19780490
"Nope, completely on accident. I was looking for work and I didn't want to do another haul job. Figured she looked interesting, and interesting people know other interesting people. Took a job to escort two people down planet side for a good fee... I had no idea she was a criminal.

>>19780454
Yes, you heard the plan right.
She may be his neice, but she seems to not be in a position within the organization.
Like he said, like Inara. Inara never fights. She's referred to as The Ambassador in the show by Mal for a reason.

We just need to make sure she wants to join before we recruit her. Bonus points for it being her idea.

>>19780490
Not at first but when she made the second offer I did say yes so I guess yes sorta?

rolled 5, 11 = 16

>>19780490
I say A: give the girl a trail run, worst case scenario we'll find out that she has an overprotective uncle or something and we can drop her off on the nearest planet and flee.

B: Whilst respect the decisions og my fellow man. He is wrong. Mint icecream is the best icecream in the world.

First have some mint, then have some chocolate chip cookie dough or vice versa.

>>19780490
No, I didn't know what I was getting into when I signed on, however I also don't really mind, the underbelly may be a whole mess of problems, but it's also where I'll earn the most money. One of the many benefits owning my own ship brings is that if the heat gets turned too high all I need to do is slip outsystem and move on to the next big thing after I've earned some cash here.

Do my job, do it well, and disappear before the hunters catch a scent if need be.

>>19780490
As previously mentioned i was looking for a paying job and that seemed quite a nice opportunity. The way it developed is something I would have preferred not to but it turned out all-right in the end. Why, do you have a better suggestion ?


>Ice Cream
One globe Chocolate one globe Rum. thx.

As for you, you do seem to know awfully much for a captain of the industry child. The archetype is deceiving...
Or do you just like to subvert it?

File: 1341699004999.jpg-(17 KB, 300x300, best icecream.jpg)

>>19780506
>>19780550
You are both wrong here is the best ice cream

Just to clarify: you... strongly suspect it would be best not to try hiring Emmy. She is, after all, the niece of a crime boss big enough to help sponsor 10 days of feasting.

Still, if she says yes to an occasional traipse, who are you to refuse, eh?

>>19780506
>>19780528
>>19780535

'Ooh, is that chocolate chip cookie dough?' Then she confirms it with her spoon before you can answer the question, before looking at you again.

'Hmm. So you got tangled... by accident? But would you still do such work though? I mean, man, accidents... don't count for much among us.' She said us, didn't she? Damn.

'I don't know. I guess so...'

'Well. Uncle might have something for you...' Emmy sits back, smiling. 'Don't be so tense. Station 1 is holy sacred ground. Everyone agrees that no guns are produced in Station 1...'

She does seem to know a lot about the underworld here, you figure. Yulia probably does too; but then Yulia is slightly unhinged, unlike Emmy. Her eyes are green-grey, you notice. That's lovely. That's very nice...

'You've got stuff on your mind, Nelson. Spit it out.'

> What do/say/ask?

>>19780534
What do you mean it looks like she knows a lot of what her uncle does so she has to be involved somehow.

To stop the arguing

THERE IS NO BEST FLAVOR

THERE IS NEVER BEST SUBJECTIVITY

>>19780601
"Well, in order, I was thinking that you know your shit, that your eyes are beautiful, and that I might be taking up a job with your uncle soon... oh, and this ice cream is delicious, and Yulia is insane, and I wonder what it would be like to ride a horse."

>>19780622
If horses still exist in the future DUN DUN DUUUN. anyways I second this. Wait are horses still around?

Oh man, sorry, I didn't see all the flavour suggestions. You can take them from Emmy's selection though. She's got good taste too.

>>19780606
You seem to be implying I want her on the crew because she knows the crime world.
This is wrong.

I want her on the crew because I have been reading a HAREM quest for at least three days now.
My thoughts are effected, and I do apologize.

>>19780622
Don't say Yulia name. Tis a bad idea. Just catch yourself mid sentence.

>>19780697
No problem just wanted to point that out.
>>19780601
And based on it was said here recruiting her is a bad idea all around. So no problems man

>>19780648
>>19780570
>>19780622

Horses? Woah, how much money do you think you have? They do exist, yes, but they are ravishingly expensive. Seriously, fucking, expensive.

You think about what she says. 'Well, see, if the heat gets turned up too high I could always flee off-system, can't I?'

'That's true... if the nexus worlds don't have a warrant out for you.' She twirls her ice cream spoon. 'They do control the Interstellar Gates after all.'

Damn, she's right. You then tell her what's on your mind. She giggles when you say she has beautiful eyes, and then blinks when you mention Yulia. 'Wait. Yulia? As in, Yulia Kurylenko?'

Fuck. Did you just give away Yulia's identity? Emmy goes back to eating her ice cream nonchalantly. 'As for jobs, how did you guess, uncle has the same idea. He might hire you soon...'

> What do/say? It seems Emmy might be whiling the time away while waiting for her uncle.

>>19780601
I have a lot of things on my mind. not all of them pertinent or polite.

Still if you ask of them, Id have to say you have remarkable insights into the local... nightlife, shall we say. which is rather unexpected from the child of a capo. Odd.

Also, while being a freelancer running shipping for interesting parties like your uncle/father and a certain lovely long legged blonde is certainly something i did not plan on, it is a start.

you did mention a certain affinity for flying the dark though, so, considering your background why aren't you in a pilot jumpsuit behind a Military Strike-craft? you certainly had the credentials to make it there...

>>19780708

> Damn. Was typing. But then again, from Emmy's expression - she doesn't actually seem surprised at all about you knowing Yulia. She's probably figured that she was your ally...

>>19780751
>>19780741

damn one minute too late.

>>19780741
"So what can you do for fun on this station besides well eating ice cream. I really don't come here that often." Just making small talk

>>19780741
"Do you mind if I ask a question? Is this a classic mafia, like all those Italian chumps however many hundreds of years ago? Y'know, with the Godfather and the Consigliere and the Capos and soldiers and et cetera? Or is it more like the Russians, with the elite... oh, whaddya call 'em... voř v zakone running everything?

It's been nice op.

I hope you will be able to do weekly runs of this as a offset to House and Dominion.


we really needed a firefly space type fix, and this seems awesome.

anyway going to sleep.

>>19780798
>>19780795
>>19780751

Emmy blinks. 'I know the nightlife here? Well, I don't think so - I wasn't even at the dance party last night...'

'Don't lie, Emmy.'

'Okay, you're sharp. I was.' She chuckles.

'So... if you're into travelling the deep black, why aren't you in the navy or with the merchant fleets? Like, the legitimate merchant fleets?'

'Oh man... I would, you know, I would. But uncle wouldn't let me.' She looks down at her ice cream, and her face falls a bit. 'He's quite protective of me... ever since my parents got gunned down.'

As for the Mafia question, she thinks about it a bit. 'Well. Any organisation like that is going to be quite similar, I guess. You want a hierarchy, and plenty of henchmen who don't know who their boss is. I guess most of us work that way. There's an inner circle... then there are contractors, like you. Or henchmen. If you do well enough, you may become part of the group. Olga's a bit different. You know what they call her, right? Stalinova Olga. 'Steely Olga'. And it's not because she has nerves of steel, though she does...'

'Anyway, though, tell me more about Yulia! So... what, she helped you with your job? What do you think of her? How's she insane?'

> What do/say?

>>19780862
Damn it, can't lie our way out of this one.
"She's okay, nice gal when you get past the shooty kill kill part. She kind of reminds me of a puppy. Really eager with lots of energy and no tact." Ignore the first question.

>>19780795

'Besides eating ice cream... well, there's actually a park you know. With simulated wind, for flying kites. There's also shopping... cinema... simulated brawls... there are bars and restaurants where cage fights and simulation battles are played, as well as many, many immersion stations for playing simulated... most things.'

'Of course,' she continues, 'if you're into that sort of thing, there's also girls. Deck 3's got a whole section for those. I think quite a few of them are serving duty as waitresses and the like now, even!'

Oh great. You hope you didn't catch anything. Broad-spectrum antibiotics still go through the arse these days, you know...

>>19780889
I had a bad feeling about that waitress from the beginning.

>>19780889
We check it out with a doctor later.

>>19780862
Laugh
"Yes, she really is. But fuck did she come through, as you can tell." (physically present the fact you're still alive{eg, flourish})

>>19780862
>her on space craft
dont look so glum. say what, far bee it from me to deny a lovely lady her dreams, if you are able to sneak by, i wont mind you being a seasonal crew-member aboard my ship, - as long as you can pull your weight and manage to keep it from your uncle - I like my currently intact body- heck, i'll throw in some basic piloting courses.

> Yulia
She is defiantly a character. Very lucky little bundle of fuzziness and murder-presents. And it's not like she would not need it, since its a miracle she is still kicking at her pace.
But why are you so fascinated by our little Yulia?

>>19780888
>>19780907
>>19780921
>>19780925

'Well, she's nice until she gets a gun. Then she goes a bit overboard. But she's saved my life, so I'm not complaining.'

'Aww. That's nice.' Emmy nods, and then you notice she's finished her ice cream. 'Do you want more?'

'Um...'

Emmy goes off to the counter and comes back with another cup, this time with three scoops. What's with her and Yulia? Also, you wonder if Yulia's *still* eating upstairs. There's a possibility she might never stop until stopped.

'So where's Yulia now? Dropped from the station? Uncle is always surprised that she survives her missions.'

Man, you don't know how much you can say now. If Kensington's been on the receiving end of those missions, you're already shafted basically... still, Emmy doesn't seem to give that idea substance. She continues eating, while asking you what sort of job you'd take. 'Salvage? Hauling? Wet work? Also, you mentioned aggressive expansion... so are you building an empire right now as well, you?'

She only sounds half in jest, despite her grin.

> What do/say?

>>19780988
"Suddenly this is more interrogation and less treating you to ice cream. Anyway, I'll take hauling or wet work. I don't remember mentioning expansion at all."

"I move things. Items from A to B. Sometimes bullets from a gun to a body"

>>19780988
Perhaps a pirate empire, though I'd need to buy better clothing, can't be out raiding dressed poorly, right? what's that say to the victims?

honestly though I'm looking to lay low for a bit while the heat from the last job dies down, so hauling or salvage would be good for a while, perhaps even... honest jobs. Don't want the law too suspicious of me now, do we?

>>19780988
missed this.

re:
>>19780961

Salvage and Hauling seem nice not get you murdered and hunted jobs. Although I may have proven that I wont Object to the odd work, wet or dry. As long as it wont strain my last shred of morality and humanity, and wont get me much exposure any job is welcome- i do reserve the right to revise that under closer scrutiny though.
As for Aggressive Expansion towards my own Personal Empire, I maintain my stated policy of no comment, although you will have a invitation as foreign dignitary on the public opening.


currently we are unaware of Yulias location - true fact.

>>19781061
we do need a proper tricone hat, red or blue overcoat with gold trimming and a nice eyepatch and parrot.

>>19781088
I vote red overcoat, blue is such a... first mate color.

File: 1341701967907.jpg-(39 KB, 261x320, mollari.jpg)

>>19781092
if we have red, all crew has red.
if we have blue, all crew has blue.
if we have grey all crew has grey
if we have black all crew has black.

uniform man! Uniform!

now considering all these, i say we go for a purple one !

because in purple we are stunning!

I just remembered, last thread we were discussing having an ex-military pilot background. What are everyones thoughts?
Also, are we still getting the weapon upgrade for our ship?

Captcha: [scientific equation]
And I thought people joked...

>>19781116
I can go with purple. In fact, purple is good. We will be Pocky's Purple Pirate Party.

>>19781068
>>19781061
>>19781049
>>19781015

'My my. May I plead the Seventy-Ninth, Emmy?'

'Nope. This is not a court of the Alliance.'

You tell her you don't mind taking odd jobs, though you'd much rather just haul stuff. 'Killing will be done if killing needs doing. But I'm not a bloodthirster.'

'Fair enough. That's far more than can be said about Yulia, for instance,' she says, offering you some mint ice cream. Ooh, their mint is properly spicy.

'And as for expansion, I... don't recall mentioning it.'

'Oh, but you implied it! You said your ship was too small. That means you'd like it bigger. There you go.'

'Well, I can't comment on that. But certainly I'd need an eyepatch and tricorn hat first.'

Emmy laughs again. 'You seem so nervous, Nelson! Look, it's all right. It's Varras! There's hundreds of places to go, we've all got room to jostle about. You know, when Olga entered the system with 180 heavily armed war veterans, everyone was like 'ohhh shit, claret is imminent'. But see, four years on, things are fine! More or less...'

> What do/say to that? Also, it seems like you're almost nearing the end of the conference time...

>>19781129
ex military pilot seems a nice thing.

allows us to really push craft and do some nice manoeuvres. nothing fancy but enough to get the job done.

and basic knowledge about guns, fire support missions, extractions, insertions and other nice things. with a more detailed knowledge about them regarding or field of action.

>>19781129

I think there was quite a consensus last thread that it was a good idea. Well, I personally think it's nice too. (It's your game though, so...)

You've raised the weapons upgrade with Olga. She's said that your ship might not take too kindly to having holes cut in it to mount mass projectors, but hey, anything's worth a try. She'll get back to you by tomorrow, she says. Got a meeting to go to...

>>19781129
Ex military pilot is good.

>>19781163

still no response on this one
>>19780862
>her on space craft
dont look so glum. say what, far bee it from me to deny a lovely lady her dreams, if you are able to sneak by, i wont mind you being a seasonal crew-member aboard my ship, - as long as you can pull your weight and manage to keep it from your uncle - I like my currently intact body- heck, i'll throw in some basic piloting courses.

>>19781163
"Yah, this place is nice I suppose. It's a good place to start off. Has a nice den of thieves feel to it. I get the feeling that the real profits will be made in the sectors less saturated with drugs and guns, though."

>>9781183
Yep, I remember there being a major positive response, but few straight "let's go with it"s.
Also a lot of just in case plot hole filling.

>>19781202

Emmy puts on a serious face. 'I think it might not be appropriate, Nelson. My uncle might assume it was a kidnapping. And you don't want to kidnap anyone associated with my uncle. Probably, especially, not me.'

As you blink at that, she smiles. 'Still. I wouldn't mind chartering your ship for a discreet job, I guess... if it comes to that.'

You figure she's probably got about 5 or 6 better ships waiting to take her on for those discreet jobs, though...

>>19781202
This. See if she wants to tag-along when we're doing legal-work. Teach her basic piloting and other stuff.

>>19781241
but they all lack the pulpy, plucky crew. our rugged good looks and our PC charms....

>>19781264
they wont give her piloting lessons either.

At least not firefly ' oh god, oh god, we are going to die' kind of ones...

>>19781283
>>19781264
Meh we gave our two cents and we also confirmed we might get a job from her uncle in the future. Not much we can talk about.

>>19781232

'Less saturated? Well...' Emmy shrugs. 'It's not just guns and drugs though. There are plenty of things that can be and are smuggled around here. Have you ever seen a sand smuggler? I couldn't believe it myself, until we actually saw a ship with 1,400 tons of sand in its hold. We thought, there has to be some white dust in that sand... but there wasn't. It's just sand they need for cement or something. Paid the guy 4,000 credits to run it in, too!'

Just then, Emmy's databook rings and she picks it up. 'Hello? Oh. Hey uncle...'

You move to let her go past you into the restroom. Five minutes later, she comes out grinning. 'What's the good news?'

'Oh, it's not good news for me. It's good news for you. I think Uncle would like to talk to you about some job!'

> What do/say?

> Also, very sorry to disappoint people who think Emmy can be hired straight up - she's the niece of someone who appears to be a leading criminal syndicate boss in the Varras system. You, on the other hand, are sub-sub-sub-contractor level. To be very honest, if Emmy needed her dress ironed, you'd probably be ironing the shirt of the guy who prepares the iron for Emmy's butler.

> Still, there are no distinctions of rank can't be broken by hard work and good results, so keep at it fellas!

>>19781232
I guess we can second this to end the conversation

>>19781329
Yeah like I thought. It seemed like a dumb idea but people seem to want it for some reason.

>>19781329
Well, offer her our arm in a gentlemanly fashion and ask her to lead the way.

>>9781350
It's fun and it's a medium long term goal.
I hope nobodies thinking it's going to suddenly happen, or happen soon.

>>19781363
>>19781350

> Well, granted - it's only for now. Who knows what might be in the future? To be sure, Emmy seems to like you rather.

As a sign of favour, she accepts your offer, but not before eating a huge last spoonful of ice cream. She doesn't say anything as you go up to Deck 3, because her mouth is trying to melt the thing.

'Mmmmm. Mmmdmmm.'

'Sorry?'

She winces and taps her temple. Headache. You totally had it coming, lady... she removes her arm from around yours once you get to Deck 3. Looking around, you see the waitress who shagged you last evening, cleaning a table. Well, look at that. You have good taste.

Yulia isn't around though, you notice. Then suddenly Kensington is beside you, and Emmy hugs him. 'Nelson! Nelson! I should perhaps call you Horatio from now on,' he says. 'Well. So. How has my niece been?'

'Headache,' she says.

'You overindulged her, didn't you...'

> What do/say?

>>19781388

> Don't worry - the plan's been noted! It does mean you might have to ingratiate yourself with Olga's rival though. Huh.

>>19781415
I take my eye off her for one second and there is another cone laden in ice cream, if she didn't look so joyous at the sight I would have tried to put a stop to it. But perhaps I am weak, I could not commit an action that might make her pout.

>>19781415
"When I'm with a besutiful lady, I prefer that to underendulging them."

>>19781415
How could I refuse to spend time with such a lovely lady enjoying herself as she was?

Emmy tells me you wanted to talk to me about something?

>>19781415
Tell her to eat something warm always get rid of my ice cream headache. (This is actually true for me irl hell even hot french fries work for me)

>>19781415
"Horatio...? Anyway... wait did I pay? I think we just sort of left..."

>>19781473
beAutiful lady

No misunderstandings.

>>19781482
Drink something warm - It your ice cream headache is severe, then try getting a warm glass of water and/or hot chocolate to help warm you mouth up. Swish it around making sure to hit the roof of your mouth.

>>19781459
>>19781473
>>19781479
>>19781482
>>19781491

'I swear, sir, I take my eye off her a moment and she's back with another scoop of ice cream. Still, I think it'd be nicer to overindulge Emmy than to deny her.'

'You took your eyes off my niece? You are a man of unusual restraint then, Horatio.' Then, seeing your blank face, 'Horatio Nelson. Don't know him? Never mind. Anyway, yes. Something needs doing.'

Emmy follows you as you follow Kensington, into a karaoke bar, then a private chamber... then she opens a hidden door and beckons you through before closing it behind you. Kensington smiles.

'Anechoic chamber. You know, we're all paranoid.'

'I suppose so.'

'So. The job. It's actually very simple... or it would be. I need you... to haul stuff. Take it out to Neros - you know, above Armando - and then deliver it to some of my people there. It's semi-legal stuff.'

'How much will you give me?' You reckon the job is probably worth 3,000 or so, and so when Kensington offers you 15,000, you don't even need to ask.

'Now. There's a catch, of course. The cargo was already en route... when it disappeared. Ship is probably derelict somewhere, cargo still intact, but we aren't sure where it disappeared. I've seen some of your records. Space combat... space piloting. I think you can do this.'

Huh. So you'll have to find the ship, grab the cargo, then finish the run...

> What do/say?

>>19781618
What's the cargo? How much of it was there?

What's the timeframe on this job?

>>19781618
Seems a good idea to ask how the ship is fully damaged and the cargo fully intact
And how they confirmed it.
Could be heading off some trouble.

>>19781655
As long the cargo can't blow up it's fine. That's what I'm most worried about. Still I'll second this one

>>19781685
They said probably so they can't be sure but why do they think the cargo is still there

>>19781618
"...There was a bug on your niece wasn't there? I suspected something like that would be pulled. Anyway! Sounds great, what's the cargo and can it damage my ship? Did the ship get attacked or did it just fall of the radar? Details, monsieur."

>>19781701
If the cargo was something like horses or cattle(firefly episode) we could have a lot of conpetition.

>>19781655
>>19781685

> Oh, also, you did give Emmy that advice. Hopefully she's gone to get a coffee or something.

'Timeframe, well - I'd like you to find the ship within seven or eight days, if at all possible. As far as we know, it got lost near this buoy...' He sends you the coordinates to your databook. Well, not that it helps. If the ship's thrusters were on it could be miles and miles off.

'Any better indicator of location, though?'

'We do have a possible lead. A military frigate, escorting some small trading ships, appears to have logged a report of derelicts on sensors. The frigate still patrols the area; it's called the Acanthus. Maybe you can get information from them, somehow.'

'And after I get the cargo? How badly damaged is the ship?'

'I'm afraid I have no idea. It fell off the sensors... but once you get the cargo, ASAP will do. When you get to Neros, look for a Mr. Watson, he'll take the cargo.'

> What do/say/ask? After one more round, you'll have to decide to take the job or not.

>>19781769
do you know if anybody else might have been after the cargo? if it was stolen then there might not be much I can do.

>>19781769
How heavy, transportable and potentially dangerous is the cargo to the transporter?

Are there likely to be other parties who know about this shipment and are interested in it?

>>19781769
"Anything you can say on the cargo itself? I don't need big suprizes once I have it."

>>19781655
>>19781701
>>19781724
>>19781737
>>19781738

> These questions count under first round, no worries.

'The cargo, I am not at liberty to identify. But it's not assassins, it's not backstabbers. It's not alive.'

'Will it burn off my bollocks if I go within a hundred feet of it?'

'Nope.'

'Will it blow the ship to pieces if placed near a heat source?'

'Nope. Don't put it near a heat source, though.'

As for how the ship fell off the radar, Kensington says he has no idea. Well, it wouldn't be a surprise if there was an attack - either by a rival group, or maybe... or maybe the Revenants.

'Did you just fucking say Revenants, pardon my language?'

'They never stay near something they just destroyed,' Kensington says calmly. 'You won't encounter them if you go back in.'

'And the cargo?'

'The cargo is very secure. I will pass you the access code if you agree to the job.'

>>19781846
Revenant sounds like Reavers. We need to be careful.
Otherwise, deal.

>>19781875
Second this

>>19781846
If there are Revenants anywhere fucking near that ship when I get there I will turn around, flip on hard burn, and give you your money back. That is my only caveat.

Otherwise it's a deal.

>>19781807
>>19781875

'I... can think of rivals. But the Acanthus, that's intelligence that only you have got. So you have a headstart already, if you can wheedle anything out of those navy bastards.'

As for the Revenants, they were the first waves of human explorers. They pushed blindly into the depths of space; many went mad, and those who didn't go mad became obsessive cultists.

They aren't insane like the Reavers - actually there are many insane ones, but they've mostly been weeded out. Most of those remaining are the cultists. Which doesn't make it any better.

>>19781875
Those that don't know Reavers
"They'll rape us to death, eat our flesh, and sow our skins into their clothes. And if we're very very luck, they'll do it in that order" Zoe, Firefly

> Also, I'll be off to bed after two more posts. Thanks people for playing!

>>19781905
"It's okay, I used to be a pilot in the navy, I know how to work them over. Anyway, if there's nothing else I'll get going. I have to finish a few things on station before I go and that will probably eat up a day or so."

>>19781957
sounds good

>>19781898
>>19781957
Combine, and we're done!

>>19781957
>>19781977

Kensington nods. 'Well. You take care. Oh yes, one more thing.'

'Yeah?'

'That ship is big, and it has a lot of cargo. Now, I don't normally spoil a salvager's fun, but I'd advise you not to touch too many other things on that ship. In fact, if you can, take what you were asked to, and leave.'

Huh. Interesting. He also spots you 5,000 up front, so now you have about 47,500 credits!

Exiting the anechoic chamber, you smell fragrant tea. Unlike Olga's tea, this is much lighter, more flowery stuff. 'Earl Grey?'

'In the afternoon, Emmy? Faux pas,' Kensington smiles and walks away. Emmy smiles, gives you a wave, and follows too.

> What do?
> You've taken on a job! Find, recover and carry shipment to Neros.

>>19782044
Well let's retrofit our ship some.

We can get the electronic security upgrade we were thinking about, we should probably get some nice new sensors, it might be helpful for this job, add some weaponry to the ship if we can.

Also we need an assault rifle, a pistol and a combat dagger.

>>19782098
Don't we have a pistol or did we ditch it?

OP, how much would a new ship with storage space and guns cost?
Just wondering since Olga said our ship might not take well to being cut into to add guns.

>>19782157
Derp.
Preferably a onehander.

>>19782133
>>19782098

You did have a pistol, and you took it. Yulia has a pistol and a shotgun.

As for the rest, you call Olga up and soon you're in the office. 'I can get you a nice electronics suite, along with security systems. That would be around 6,500 credits. Extra EM sensors go for about 5,000 on market, but I think we can make it 3,500. So that's 10,000 for the entire upgrade.'

'And weapons?'

'I've got an assault rifle for you for 1,500 credits. As for the knives you were talking about...' Olga motions to Boris, who opens a pack and rolls it across the table. You look at the array of 8 knives - you could gut, skin and clean a man in 22 seconds with these probably... '2,500 for this lot. I hear you're used to space-fighting after all. So, all in all, 4,000 credits.'

'Wait, Olga, how about shipboard weapons?'

'I really don't recommend drilling into your hull too much, Nelson,' she says evenly. 'I had some techies looking at it and they said probably not. And those are people who turned tractors into assault mortar carriers, so I trust them...'

> How? Accept, or haggle?
> I'll note the responses for next thread. Once again, thanks for playing!

>>19782157
she did say that didn't she well damn the weapons might have to wait then but those brand new sensors might help for this job.

>>19782157

You cleared out your entire account of about 70,000 to get the ship you're using now. And you got that price only because it's an old ship of an old build...

A mint ship will probably set you back 6 digits, sadly.

>>19782221
Story of our life huh oh well we will get there one day.

>>19782190
Start testing the heft, balance and sharpness of the knives.

Try to bargain it down to 10-12k for the whole thing.

Thanks for the game, OP!
and yeah, we're really buying in bulk. 12k sounds fair to me.

>>19782248
Do we really know enough about the other stuff to bargain for them? Let's just bargain on what we know a.k.a the knifes. Do we need to roll to see how good these knifes are?

>>19782296

Go ahead!

rolled 50 = 50

>>19782339
Rolling to see how good these knifes are