This modest but well kept house is on the outskirts of the small town of Cordell.  It may not look like much but there is a distinct feeling of hominess about this place.  There are books everywhere.  On floor to ceiling shelves, in piles on the floors, beneath the stairs, on the end tables, littering the dining table ... Squire loves his books.  The house always smells distinctly of pipe tobacco.
This message was last updated by the GM at 04:23, Wed 05 Apr 2006.

Kale stepped down the ramp and immediately spotted Squire's heading towards him.  Ren had set the ship down a little bit aways from the professor's house but the old man was still walking out to meet them.  Smoke from his chimney could be seen rising up from behind him.  Just seeing the man heading towards him made Kale feel at peace, it was how Squire's always made him feel.  Sometimes he thought the old man knew him better then he knew himself.

He held out his arms as he neared him and was soon embracing Squire's in a hug.  They said nothing to each other for a few moments - the gesture said it all.  Then they pulled away and looked at each other, "Gregoro Partir said: Time only moves because we expect it to.'" Kale said.

Walton smiled as the looked at Kale.  They did not say hello.  There was no acknowledgement that they had not seen each other in months.  Kale just began talking and Walton was glad for that.  It was as though they were merely continuing a conversation that had never been paused.  He laughed and the sound was rich, if not slightly frail.  "And here I thought you hadn't actually ever listened to one of my lectures." he said.

Kale laughed, "Just the one, an' that was only cause Margaret Delinger wasn't in class that day an' I had nothin' better to be payin' attention to" a huge grin crossed Kale's face.

Walton smiled as well and nodded his head, "Of course, of course.  It is quite apparent you missed the part where I explained what Partir meant though, he was speaking of time travel and I'm not entirely sure how that pertains to this moment. But I appreciate the reference - however misused." he laughed again and his entire face lit up.  There was nothing that he enjoyed more then when Kale brought his crew to Regina.  He was an old man and he had no delusions about that whatsoever.  Not to say he was knocking on deaths door.  He still had a good run left in him, but he didn't have a life in the way that he used to.  His life was lived more in his head, in his books, in his own work and writings and less in the real physical world.  Kale always brought him back to it however, reminded him that the 'verse was still out there - however stoutly he ignored it at times.

Kale waved off Squire's explination, "See I take a more subjective approach to philosophy." he said then he looked back at his crew.  "Got some folk you ain't met yet.  Rhaef, Charlie, an' Ren you know, of course.  This here is Acacia - our Doc.  Geoff, hired gun." he glanced to Wei-Li with a small smile, "This one's a passenger of ours at the moment, Wei-Li.  An' the lil' lady is Lei." Kale said, making the introductions.

Charlie smiled at Walton, not waiting for the introduction to finish before she walked up and hugged the old man.  It had been too long since the last visit.  Regina was never a place that she'd decide to bank for the rest of her life, but it was an amazing vacation from time to time.

"Ah'd began t'think that the Cap'n wouldn't be bringin' th'boat around anytime soon, y'know?  Think I'd be talkin' ya into a trade'r somethin'?"  Charlie lifted the sack off her shoulder, giving it a little swing in between them.  "'Less you're thinkin' that I'd be havin' enough in m'head fer now..."

Walton embraced the girl as she swung her arms around him, "Ah, Charlene my dear!" he said.  Walton had always joked with Kale that Charlene was his favorite.  She was a beautiful woman - and not only by the traditional definition of the word.  He smiled at her as she swung the bag between her legs and gave her a wink, "A mind like yours can never be too full, I've got stacks already picked out to trade you.  And you and I will have to take some time to discuss those you're bringing back today."

Lei reached for Geoff's hand as she watched the exchange between the professor and Kale. She just offered him a curious stare when she was introduced, deciding to stay beside Geoff until he gave her a reason to trust this strange man.

She tugged on his shirt to whisper something in his ear,

----->From Cargo Bay

Geoff had watched and listened to the captain's traded words with the old man who must be the professor without saying much. He didn't want to get in the way of two old friends such as these two greeting each other after so long. He had only raised a hand in greeting as his name was mentioned and stayed quiet as he watched Charlie take her turn in greeting the professor.

Geoff had taken the hand that Lei had extended to his, smiling with affection to the girl. He knew that she usually did not deal well with new people so he would have to make it a point to introduce her to the professor so she could get used to him. If the man was a friend of the captain's this probably wouldn't be the last time they met up with him, after all.

He looked down to her with a bit of curiousity when she tugged on his shirt and leaned down to hear what she had to say. When he heard what she whispered in his ear, he snorted with laughter that he stifled right off. He shook with the muffled laughter that came from him for a few moments before shaking his head, the laughter dying down to a few chuckles. "Y..yeah, I guess yer right at that. But it ain't somethin' ya can fix by ironin'.", he said, still laughing softly,"Uh...just so ya know, that ain't gonna be somethin' ya wanna say to him, ok? Let's just keep that 'tween you an' me."

Rhaef had fallen into the rear of the group, partly out of habit to cover the group from potential attack, and because Charlie had made her way to the front.

Rhaef first noticed the smells of food cooking in the professor's house before anything else. As the last one in, he caught the tell end of Kale's speech and saw Walton spinning Charlie around. Knowing better than to let, Walton find him, he weaved through the crowd and reached the front of the room. When Walton set Charlie down, he approached, extending his tatooed "Evening, Walt, its been too long sir." Rhaef's faced cracked its first genuine smile at the sight of the old man, since he'd left Osiris.

Lei grinned, not really understanding what was so funny. She wasn't quite sure she understood why an iron wouldn't work either, perhaps the temperature would overwhelm the nerves, a cell she learned about in Acacia's medical book. She nodded, however to let Geoff know that she wouldn't reveal her first comment on the man.

Walton turned from Charlie as Rhaef made his way to the front of the group.  He took Rhaef's hand, clasping it between both of his, it was less of a handshake and more of a momentary connection between the two men.  Rhaef smiled at him and Walton quirked a brow, staring at him.  He did not smile himself.  After a few moments silence he said in a low voice, only loud enough for Rhaef to hear, "You're wrong."

Then he turned back to Kale and the rest of the crew with a smile.  "Well, it is most certainly a pleasure to see all the new faces. I'm sure you are all ready for something nice and warm to eat.  I attended culinary school for three years .... a long time ago ... but I'm sure Kale has lured you all here with the promise of food so come along, inside we go."  Walton led them all down the dusty, sparsley grass covered terrain to his house, which sat just off a worn out dirt road.  There were no neighbors anywhere near by.

Inside the crew was greeted with the smells of cinnamon and tobacco and a faint scent of something delicious smelling cooking in the kitchen through the arched doorway at the back of the room.  A fire was blazing away cheerily in the hearth of the living room.  Centered around this were two couches completely worn in but all the more comfortable for it.  As usual there were stacks and piles of books everywhere. "Don't mind the mess just go ahead and move all this out of your way, there is no method to the madness, just an old man unable to keep his work confined to the study." he said, "Go on, make yourselves at home."

Then he shuffled his way out of the room and into his study, when he returned his arms were full of books.  "Charlene dear, would you mind?" he said, motioning for her to grab a bit of the stack from him.  He was grinning, "Now I know this is more then I normally lend you but if Kale is going to make it a habit of leaving months and months between visits you'll need a better supply."  He lowered the rest of his stack onto the coffee table and sat himself right on the floor next to it.

Kale just offered Walton a grin in response to his comment, "Gotta keep Destiny flyin' an' that don' happen by sittin' around tellin' stories with you - as much as I enjoy it." he said, picking up a pile of books and papers and dumping them unceremoniously on the ground beside the couch to take a seat.

Rhaef found a chair by the fire where he had sat numerous times before, talking with the Professor. The man was like a father to Kale, but he was more to Rhaef. He was one of the first to see him as more than what he was, and he taught to him much about himself. There were many days where Rhaef would say that if it weren't for Walton Squires and Kale Galway, he'd be a dead man or worse. He looked at the book on the Professor's sidetable - it was what he was usually reading at the time. "Walt, you hiding some kids on us? I mean, I know you like light reading, but fairy tales, sir?" Rhaef joked his mood, like his humor, starting to lighten in these familar surroundings.

"of course, Walton...y'know, I'm always helpin'n such."  Charlie dropped the bag on the floor, taking half of the stack of books and setting them on the floor.  She opened the bag, laying out what Walton had given her last time; a hodgepodge of math, english, simple literature...in a more schooled place, it would be the general education.  She took a few of the books from Walton, sliding them into the bag.

"Don't you be callin' th'Cap'n things, like he's not doin' right in the world."  Charlie spoke with a smirk, stacking up the books so that they took up less space in the bag.  "We'd come back more'f we had th'time."

Walton laughed at Charlene's comment and looked up at Kale, "Loyal to the core." he said, shuffling through the books he had gathered and making sure Charlene got the right ones, while stacking up the ones she had taken out.  "It's you know, Charlene.  Not y'know." he said somewhat absentmindedly.  He paused for a second when Rhaef spoke and glanced up at the book he had pointed out.  A small smile crossed his lips, "How very appropriate for you to notice that book, Rhaef." he pulled the book from the small table and into his lap.

"Are you familiar with the story of Beauty and the Beast ... not many are these days.  It was an old Earth-that-Was fairytale.  It's really quite interesting, a man is transformed into a beast.  His outer hideous appearance meant to reflect the ugliness inside him." Walton's eyes fell upon Rhaef and did not waver, "It takes the love of a young maiden to pull the beast away from his self-loathing.  To make him realize ... that he is not a beast at all." He holds his gaze on Rhaef for a moment longer, then looks up at the group at large with a smile, "A truly wonderful story.  Not only for children.  Although I can't help but notice that you do have a child with you, Kale." he cast a questioning look at Kale before turning back to the girl, "If my memory serves me correctly, you're name is Lei?" he held out the book, "Perhaps you'd like to hold onto this for me." his eyes met Lei's for a moment and he was startled to feel not as though he were looking into the eyes of a young girl but the eyes of someone far older.  Curious, he thought.

Geoff had patted Lei's head in a friendly manner and smiled to her at her nod. "That's a good girl.", he said with a soft tone before looking back to the professor as he turned to the rest of them, after just finishing talking to Rhaef, and began leading them towards his home. His talk of a warm meal was more than enough motivation for Geoff to move at a pretty quick pace. Not too fast though or else he would yank LEi right off her feet. Just a bit more of an enthusiastic pace with a smile that matched his enthusiasm on his face.

He looked about the place when they entered with some curiousity. It was a much nicer place than Geoff had ever been in. It looked to be a comfortable lived in place, the sights and smell of the place giving Geoff an unfamiliar feeling. A feeling of comfort and peace. A feeling of...home. He realized that, to most people, this is what a home would feel like. At least in the physical sense, this must be what a home felt like. What a warm and regular place where people live quietly without having to fight and steal for their next meal felt like. That realization filled Geoff with an echo of sadness, but he shook it off quickly. No point in wishing for what he couldn't have. Besides, he had a home now.

H didn't move to sit as the captain and Rhaef did. In his mind, this was still a place where he was an unfamiliar face so he couldn't be too comfortable. He merely remained standing, gripping Lei's hand loosely, and looked around. It wasn't until the professor came up to Lei and spoke to her to offer the book to her that he stopped looking around. He gave a nod to the professor and then smiled to Lei as he gestured toward the professor with a lazy movement of his head. He knew she was naturally wary of new people so he decided that a bit of reassurance from him would probably be good at the moment.

"Go ahead, little lady. The professor's offerin' ya a book an' a friendly face so he ain't gonna be hurtin' ya. So go ahead an' take it, thank him an' introduce yerself right an' proper. It's only polite, ya know.", he said with a half amused tone before smiling reassuringly to her,"He's a friend o' the captain's so he's a friend o' ours too, ok? So no worries, little lady."

Rhaef listened intently to Walton's words, when he spoke to him, the Professor seldom wasted words. And this was one of the things Rhaef liked about the man. He thought about the story, it was one his mother had told him as a child before he had to leave to join the Hand. In the back of his mind, he wondered why Walton was pressing him on it. In the back of his mind, something was dawning, but yet it was still forming in his mind without being drawn to conscious thought.

Ren followed the others at an easy pace, taking his time walking with Acacia.  He was glad they had talked, though he felt guilty that he was taking her away from her world.  He smiled at her, love shining in his eyes.

She had given up her world to be with him.  At least here he could show her one of the better parts of his world.

Wei-Li followed the others, but when she saw how they interacted with the professor she felt an odd twinge as she realized -- family didn't always have to mean blood.

She smiled, as she watched the others, and learned more about them as the interacted with the man.  She could see while Kale liked him so much.

Lei's eyes were all over the house as they came inside. She followed beside Geoff taking in the scent of the old books and pipe smoke, the warm colors and the homey surroundings. It was odd to be in a place that somehow seemed so comfortable. Everything was so soft and inviting looking instead of the hard cold metal of the ship or the bleach white walls of the White Place.

Her hand squeezed Geoff's when the professor offered her the book he had been talking about. The story intrigued her, but nevertheless she glanced at Geoff before taking the book in her hand.

At Geoff's insistence she spoke softly, "Yes, I'm Lei. Thank you." She hugged the book to her chest and moved back beside Geoff, but a little less scared and obviously intrested in continuing a possible conversation.

Walton offered Geoff a smile as he prompted the young girl to go ahead and take the book.  He had barely spoken but the large man reminded him immensely of Kale at that age ... probably part of the reason Kale had choosen him to join his crew.
When Lei took the book Walton did not pat her on the head or continue to treat her like a child.  Something told him that this girl was anything but a child.  "I have others if you're interested." he said serenly, not forcing them on her but merely presenting the opportunity.  He looked back up at Kale then, waiting for the story behind Lei.

Kale watched the exchange between Walton and Lei before speaking, "Kinda interestin' story really." he said, in reference to Lei's arrival on Destiny.  He proceeded to explain all about Cortez and the trip to Valon.  How Lei had arrived in a crate ... it was a little dificult story for him to recount.  He wasn't exactly proud about the danger he had landed his crew in on that mission.  But he knew that he had done right in keeping Lei on board.  "So, now she's here with us." Kale finished.  He watched Walton's expression but he was merely smiling placidly, nodding his head.  Kale couldn't tell what the man really thought about the entire situation.  He figured it was something that they'd speak on later.

Lei glanced up at Geoff again and then turned back to the professor, "I would like that very much, Professor... I've only been able to read medical books. What kind of books do you have?"

She spoke with a little more confidence, remembering that Geoff had said the professor was her friend. She was more curious about reading different books than what the professor might do to her.

Walton said nothing in response to Kale's story.  He had his thoughts on the matter but now was not the time to discuss them.  Suffice it to say it was clear to him that this was no ordinary girl.  When she spoke again he turned his gaze back to her.  Medical books, of course. he thought.  "I have all sorts, anything you can imagine, anything you want to know.  It's like the whole world sitting at your fingertips." he smiled, "You like to read." It wasn't a question.  And if it were Walton already knew the answer.

"Tell me Lei, what have you found most interesting in your reading thus far?"

Lei's eyes opened with wonder and curiousity when the professor mentioned that he had a large collection of anything and everything that she was intrested in. her hold on the book tightened slightly as she considered the possibilities.

Her grip on Geoff loosened slightly as she answered his question, "I find the skeletal structure of the human body to be quite fascinating with 205 bones and connective tissues.I am quite intriguied by all of the systems in the body from the muscuskeletal, digestive, respiratory and circulartory to the nervous and endocrine system. The various glands; the hypothalmus, pituitary, throid, parathyroid adrenal glands have the most amazing functions considering their receptors and control systems."

She looks down for a moment as if all of this information wasn't much, "The medical books focus more on diseases and treatments and there aren't as many images of their functions as I would hope to see. I'm more intrested in their functions."

Acacia listened in amazement as Lei spoke of what she'd read, and a smile crossed her face as she saw Lei relax a little and interact with someone who wasn't part of Destiny's crew.

She looked up at Ren and smiled, knowing that she'd made the right decision coming with him.

Walton nodded, "Yes ... yes indeed.  The human body is a cornucopia of facinating mysteries. I've always found the mind most intriguing myself. It is still so elusive to us and that is precisely why it captivates me so much.  The untapped capacity ..." he trailed off and began rummaging about the room for a few moments before letting out a triumphant 'ah-ha!' and pulling a large book from one of his selfs. "This you should read.  I would love to hear your opinions and theories." he said handing the book to the girl.  In gold letters it said simply: THE HUMAN MIND

She was quite remarkable, Walton thought. Her answer to his question had confirmed what Walton had suspected.  This was no ordinary girl.  He looked up at the rest of the group now, "Dear me, I'm being a terrible host.  I believe you are all ready for some dinner.  It is not quite finished, if anyone would like to assist in the kitchen the help would be much appreciated." he looked around with a laugh, "Now don't all jump up at once."

OOC: Okay I'm hoping to get a scene with Geoff and Kale and Walton in the kitchen.  I could take perhaps one more person but I want to refrain from having every character want to help.  I was thinking more along the lines of Walton being stuck with just Geoff and Kale since their not exactly the most helpful in the kitchen (or at least Kale's not as we have established :)

Lei let go of Geoff's hand and excitedly took the book. She looked around and found a large arm chair in the corner. She moved to the chair, set the Beauty and the Beast book on the table and opened the book. She immediately coughed as some dust came wafting out of the pages. She turned the binding toward her and blew hard. A small cloud of dust flew onto the floors.

Satisfied with her blow, she began looking through the contents and then set to read page by page.

Ren smiled at the Professor and nodded towards Acacia.  "We'll set the table sir," he said, his smiling growing.  This was one of the better parts of their life, their friends and he was glad to share it with Acacia.

"Where do you want us to set up?  Table?  Veranda?"

"Well, sir, you know I'm not exactly helpful with cooking, but I'll go out and haul a block of ice in for you. I assume the ice box is still out back?" Rhaef stood asking, glad to be of some use.

Geoff smiled as Lei took the book that the professor offered and then as she actually spoke to the professor for longer than a few sentences. He was glad to see her getting along with people other than him and the crew. He didn't think it would be good if she was always deathly afraid of other people. He watched her go to sit down with another book that the professor gave her, a book that was probably way out of his reckoning judging by how Lei and the professor talked right before she got it, and nodded in approval.

He heard the professor ask for help in the kitchen and he looked to the older man with a grin and a nod. "Well, I reckon that I could be helpin' a bit, Professor. I mean, I've had occasion ta be cookin' a few times an' I think I could be helpin' out a bit.", he said with a a slight smile and a gesture to Kale,"'Sides, I do believe I have some big talkin' that I did earlier ta back up. Don't I, Cap'n? Heh."

Walton smiled as Lei sat down with his book and began reading immediately, then he turned to Ren.  He hadn't had a chance to speak with the man yet and he did not know him as well as he knew Rhaef and Charlie but he was still always wonderful company.  He wondered curiously about the woman at his side.  There was obviously a connection between the two but he was sure he would be told the story later, for now there was a meal to get served.  "Inside the dining room I believe will suffice, it is a bit chilly outside for us to be eating on the veranda tonight.  And Rhaef that would be very helpful."

Then he looked at Geoff as he offered to help and gave him a rather dubious look as he heard the bit of a bet it sounded like he and Kale had going on.  "Well, I suppose that would be alright." he looked around, "Uh ... anyone else?" he asked somewhat hopefully.

Kale laughed at Geoff, "That you do, my friend, that you do.  Lots of big talkin'. I'll help out too, Walton, Geoff cookin' is somethin' I gotta see." Kale said, rising to his feet.

"Ah ... wonderful." Walton said dryly.  Kale wasn't exactly the help he wanted in the kitchen.  The man was more apt to burn his entire house down then actually cook anything.

Geoff laughed wryly as the captain stood up to offer his help for the chance to see him cook. "Heh. Well, see? Now I dunno if I should be cookin' anythin', seein' as how it's motivatin' ya ta be tryin' yer hand in the kitchen.", he said and then looked to the professor with a wide smile and a gesture to Kale,"Ya've known him longer so ya know what I'm talkin' 'bout. 'Less his tendency ta be burnin' an' manglin' anythin' edible is a new development in his life."

While Walton, Kale and Geoff moved toward the kitchen, Rhaef slipped out the door to the veranda, and lit up a cigarette. He would enjoy this, and then go haul a block of ice in for the Professor's ice box in the house.

Wei-Li hesitated for a few moments and then stepped up.  "Sir, if you'd like some help.. I'm good at chopping vegies.. mixing things... "

She watched him, trying to get a feel for the man by the way he moved.

Walton laughed heartily and clapped Geoff on the back, "No, my boy.  That is most certainly a long acquired skill of Kale's.  He was burning things out of recognition long before I even met him." Walton smiled at Kale, then looked up as Wei-Li spoke.  There was a hint of relief in his voice as she volunteered to lend a hand, "Ah, thank you, Miss ... Wei-Li, right?" Walton inquired, "Your help will be much appreciated, lord knows I'll need it." he said with a doubtful look at the two men and the four of them made way to the kitchen.

Kale looked from one face to the other, "Ah, come on Geoff ... Walton?  I ain't that bad, my food just takes 'o bit a gettin' used ta." he followed after the other three.  A smile still on his face even though he was the butt end of all their teasing ... he was just so glad to be here.  Shaking his head he said, "Everybodies makin' a fuss."

Geoff followed after the professor and looked over his shoulder at the captain with a wry grin. "No, Cap'n. A bullet wound takes some gettin' used ta. Yer cookin' is one o' those things that just ain't ever gonna be right no matter what. Just one o' those facts o' life, ya know? Can't be helped.", he said and then chuckled,"Don't let it get ya down though. It ain't like cookin' comes up all that often in our business. Now, if'n ya ever decided ta be leavin' the captain-ing business ta take up cookin' as a profession, then there'd be problems. Problems that hafta do with fire an' all sorts o' sickness. Wouldn't be pretty at all."

Wei-Li smiled and nodded, not completely amazed by his remembering her name, he had after all been a professor, and that meant having to learn everyone's name in the class.

She shook her head as the others spoke. "I, for one, do not want to get used to either." she admitted.

She stopped speaking and smiled as they entered the kitchen.  She could tell that this kitchen belonged to someone who enjoyed cooking and being in the kitchen.

"Alright, boys, boys." Walton said briskly as they entered the kitchen, although he gave a small wink to Geoff and said, "You do have a point however."  Then he looked around the kitchen, surveying the room, it was obvious that he was very comfortable here.  The looked to Wei-Li, "Now dear, if you wouldn't mind putting the salad together, supplies are all in the refrigerator.  You'll have to chop some of the vegetables and the like.  Geoff I believe you could perhaps help me with getting the potatoes and corn cooked and seasoned. Kale, all I want you do do is carve the chicken which is-" there was a small 'ding' from the oven, "Which is now done cooking.  See, so no cooking invovled, can you manage it?" he said with a smile.

Kale frowned and made a face, "Sure I can carve up a chicken, best damn chicken carver there ever was, I'm tellin' ya." he said and began reaching to open up the oven and take the chicken out.

"Ah, ah, ah!" Walton said, "Hands washed and aprons on, no touching anything til then." he washed his own hands and then grabbed an apron off of the small peg in the corner of the room.  Grabbing the others he handed them to Wei-Li, Kale, and Geoff.

Wei-Li laughed and smiled at the Professor's demeanor.  She slipped on her apron and pulled her hair back into a ponytail as the others washed their hands, then proceeded to wash hers.

She found the salad supplies and a cutting board and knife available.  She paused for a moment, selecting a slightly smaller knife and smiled as she felt its balance.

She tapped the butt of the knife on the table twice before setting into a quick rhtymic stacatto of butt taps and decisive cuts.  As everything Wei-Li did, there was a show involved.

Ren smiled as he led Acacia to the dining room and opened up the buffet table, pulling out a table cloth and some napkins.

"I'll go get the plates... you okay here?"

Acacia laughed and dance away from him.  "Ren, I've set up operating tables... I think I can handle this one." She shook her head and laughed and then stood on her toes to kiss him.

"You go get the plates, I'll get started here."

She waited until he'd turned and gave his butt a gentle pat.  When he turned he was rewarded with a very loving look.

Ren headed back towards the kitchen as if to ask the professor where the plates were.  Once he was out of Acacia's eye sight he moved back into the main room and nodded towards Charlie.

He looked around to make sure that no-one was looking before signalling her over.  "Charlie... I need your help."

Charlie looked up at Ren as he spoke, her eyes coming off the opening pages of one of Walton's books.  It was so easy to get sucked in, and with all these new pretties to read, it was almost like christmas.  With a simple nod, Charlie opened up the bag and slid the book back inside, tying it shut again after that.

"Yeah, ah'd just...y'know, nothin'."  She muttered as she stood back up, walking over to Ren and crossing her arms.  "What'cha need me t'be doin, Bear?"

Ren looked at her and began pacing slightly.  "I... he sighed and shook his head.  "Charlie... you.. you're a girl.."

He stopped, realizing how stupid he sounded.  "Acacia.. she talks to you... you know what... what she likes and ... expects... I .. uh.."

He shook his head as he stopped again and finally pulled out a small box and handed it to her. "Mei mei... do you think she'd like it?"

Charlie smirked at Ren's newfound shyness.  It seemed each sentence was stopping and starting so awkwardly...this from the gypsy that could string a line of words from one end of the 'verse to the other.  She knew what he was saying before he said it, taking the box from him.  "Aww, Baby Bear."  She reached forward, brushing a bit of hair out of his face.  "Y'need t'be jus' takin'a calm breath'n such, kay?"

She popped the lid on the box, looking inside...a smile growing at the corners of her mouth.  Her eyes took in the sights, but she closed it again before anyone else in the house would see what was going on, giving it back to Ren.  "She's gonna...y'know, forever.  She's gonna love it'n all forth, so don'cha be worried.  When're ya gonna do it?"

Ren smiled.  "Calm breath" he repeated.  "Calm breath..."  He shook his hands nervously and nodded.

He visibly relaxed when Charlie handed him the box back.  He put it back in his pocket and then looked at her again.

"Tonight... I think... I."  He paused then looked into Charlie's eyes.  She of all of his friends understood him the best.

"Charlie... She gave up-- everything to be with me-- here... This has to be right.  It has to be perfect, she deserves..." he shook his head.

"She deservers the moon, and the stars, and, everything beautiful in the world, and I want to do everything I can to give it to her... I just..."

He paused.  "What can I do to make it... perfect?"

After looking over the table of contents, Lei looked up the most important information, she read it and skimmed through some of the other pages, already having a theory in mind as to what they were going to elaborated on. She was quickly bored with the book after about ten minutes. She placed it back on the floor and went on to look for more.
She wondered around the house looking for something that would rouse her intrest. She could feel her heart beating in her chest as she walked on. She had some thoughts on the conversation between Reiner and Charlie, but reading was more important now. She would speak to Geoff about it later.
In the mean time, her mind was swirling with various information on geography, anthropology, Earth-that-was history, mathematics, astronomy, volleyball and agricutlure. The science of agriculture fascinated her the most and after reading about new technology that allowed a green house to easily be integrated into a ship she couldn't put the book down. After reading 8 books on the subject, she went back to the shelves, hungry for more. Her clothes were already covered in dust, but she was far too focused on other things.

"Ren, hun...you'd best be worryin' a whole lot less, 'cause Acacia's gone'an gotten herself someone who'll give'r all'f that.  Y'know, knowin' that'cha were keepin' it secret n'all, that was somethin' else...an' youd've kept that secret fer ages, wouldn'cha?  I know how much y'love her."  She smiles, re-crossing her arms as she looks back into his eyes.  There's a bit of a twitch at the corner of her eye when she says the word "love," but she smiles through it, turning around to stand beside him.

"So you're askin' what she'll like, right?  I mean, she's a doctor'n all that, but she's still a woman.  More proper'n some of us, y'know?  Ask her tonight...well..."  Charlie scratches the back of her neck as she thinks, looking around the room.  "Tell her, ah...I dunno.  Tell her that'cha love her.  Also, she comes from proper blood...suits'n ties, and all th'like.  I'm not sure what'cha do for tradition, comin' offa Paquin, but it'd mean more t'her if you do it traditional.  Y'know...on one knee, askin' her proper and th'like.  Also, don'be lettin' her think that you're hidin' it anymore.  You'd best ask her in front'f everyone, instead'f alone..."

Rhaef extinguished his cigarette as he walked by the bay window. He saw Acacia and Ren talking close to each other and smiled. Despite everything else, he was glad to see someone was happy, the two of them deserved it.

He walked about fifty yards and found the Professor's ice house. Grabbing a saw that was outside, he entered and hewed a block of ice to bring back. He grabbed it with some claipers and pulled it on to his shoulders. His musclues bulged and strained under the weight a bit until he got it adjusted and began the long trek back to the house.

Geoff took the apron that was offered to him and put it on with a wry grin. "Hey now, don't I jus' make a pretty picture? Honestly, I think it looks right good on me.", he said with a chuckle as he gestured to himself wearing the apron, "'Course, I like ta think I'm too damn pretty not ta look good in jus' 'bout anything, ya know?"

He laughed then as he moved to wash his hands and then, finishing that, turned to the professor. "All right then, Professor! Jus' point me at them potatoes and corn an' such an' I'll get right down ta business!", he said as he cracked his knuckles as if getting ready for a fight.

Ren's jaw dropped and his exprression fell from a nervous smile to a heartbroken look, as Charlie told him hat Acacia already had someone who'd give her all the things he felt she deserved, until he realized that she was talking about him.  His smile quirked slightly, and there was a question in his eyes for so brief a moment she might have missed it.

He simply filed his question away, knowing this probably wasn't the time, and continued to listen to Charlie, as she told him how he should do this.  When she finished he nodded.  "So no clever... hiding it or anything... One knee... front 'a family?"

He grinned at her then his eyes sparkling.  "Hell of a way to let the proffessor know eh?"

Charlie smiled, shaking her head.  "Bear, th'Professor prolly knows already, y'know?  There's no keepin' th'things from him n'all."

Ren laughed and bowed his head slightly, rolling his eyes upward, so that he still maintained eye contact with Charlie.

"Uh... hell of a way to find out...that I'm hoping to get married?" he asked, correcting himself, in the same tone he had in the holding cell when he found out that the only one who thought he had a secret was him.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:23, Sun 23 Apr 2006.

Rhaef reached the veranda door in the hall that seperated the kitchen and the dining area, he, none to subtly, knocked on the door with his head, hoping someone heard it and would come open the door for him.

Acacia smiled at Ren as he left, then got to work setting the table.  It was both comforting and odd to find someone as refined and civilized as the professor on the rim.  As she pulled out the table cloth she counted out napkins, then put one back, remembering that Kyoko wasn't there.

Once the tablecloth was on the table, she began folding the napkins as her mother did before any formal family dinner.  The thought of home make her smile as she thought of making her own with Ren.

Wei-Li laughed at Geoff's comment, and the way he looked, acting tough in an apron.  Smiling, she went back to work, this time on the carrots.  The cutting became a rythmic flouris.

Tap-ta-tap, chop chop chop. Tap-ta-tap chop chop chop as she worked her way through the carrots.

Walton pointed Geoff over to the stove top as he went to let Rhaef inside, "Ah perfect, go ahead and set that down in the ice chest." he said, heading back towards the kitchen.

Rhaef moved to ice chest and deposited the block of ice. "Anything else, Professor? Elsewise, I'm gonna go warm up by the fire for a bit." Rhaef said shivering slightly from carrying  the ice.

Kale had washed his hands and put on his own apron with a wink to Geoff.  The big man looked absolutely ridiculous in the thing ... but Kale looked worse.  His apron had a floral pattern that made him feel more like he was wearing a dress then anything.  As he turned around he noticed Wei-Li working on making up the salad ... although it looked more like she was performing some cooking show then anything.

"That there's some pretty fancy choppin'.  Where'd ya learn that at?" he asked, watching as she worked.

Wei-Li continued to chop for a moment until she remebered that she was not working as a performer but simply helping out in the kitchen.  She ducked her head and smiled, then looked at Kale.

"Back home, where the world's a stage, and dinner comes with a show..." she told him, then added.  "My Uncle Ti, he works in a Japanese restaraunt... he taught me... its easy, once you get the rhythm."

She paused for a moment then turned back, "Want to give it a try?"

Rhaef laughed when Wei offered Kale the knife. "Professor, you seeing this. I know Wei heart's in the right place, but we're going to be eatin' veggies with blood dressing, now that she gave that knife to the Captain." Rhaef had leaned agaist the door frame and was resting his back and catching his breath after carrying in the block of ice.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:30, Mon 24 Apr 2006.

"Ah, I should have expected so much from a girl from Paquin.  Acrobat, pickpocket catcher, waitress, crystal grower, and now chef?" Kale chuckled, "What can't you do?" he smiled again at the slightly shy look on Wei-Li's face.  She was a good girl, he sincerely hoped that she would take him up on his offer to join the crew, although he knew now was not the time to press the issue.  Instead he gave her a grin as she asked if he'd like to try, his expression a bit dubious.  But then he figured hell, if he could chop like that no one would be denying his cooking skills which he knew weren't as bad as everyone was making them out to be.

"Okay, ya, I'll give it gander." he picked up one of the knives a slid a carrot his way, looking to Wei-Li expectantly.

Wei-Li smiled and picked up her own knife.  "Okay, there are three very basic patterns you learn first, and I'm going to start with one of the simple ones... you start off slow, get a feel for what you're cooking because... different vegies require differing amounts of pressure." she told him, remembering how Ti had taught her.

She went through the basic moves, and the fact that each point on the knife had a different sound.   "So you set the rhythm, and simply... "  she started saying the sounds slowly as she started out slowly and built back up to tempo, then stopped, waiting for Kale to try it.

Kale watched the womans fluid movements with raised brows, "Ya, 'course, real simple-like." he said and began butchering his carrot.  The cuts were jagged and his movements weren't at all fluid ... and he knew it.  "Just got ta get the hang of it, that's all." he said.

Walton laughed at Rhaef's comment knowing full well how terrible a cook Kale was.  That's why he hadn't put him in charge of making the salad, all he needed to do was ...

That was when Walton noticed the smoke coming from the oven ... and Kale trying to chop vegetables.  "Wo de tian ah!" Walton said while hurrying into the kitchen.  "Kale!  What are you doing?! Tian Di Wu Yohn!" he muttered under his breath as he opened the oven.  Flames greeted him as the chicken he had spent the day basting blazed brilliantly within its small confinement.  "One thing Kale, I asked you to do one thing ... and it didn't even involve actual cooking."  he said in a slightly defeated tone.  Walton quickly put out the fire and retrieved an oven mit, pulling the chicken out of the oven and onto the stove top next to where Geoff was working.  "What is this supposed to be?" he muttered.

Wei-Li smiled and noded.  "Take it slowly. Pommel, Top... Pommel... Chop... " she said as she moved her knife, and waited for him to follow her at that speed.

She continued, naming the part of the knife, and the action, increasing the speed slightly after the 5th repitition. Then stopped when she heard the professor yell.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:44, Mon 24 Apr 2006.

Kale heard Walton's voice ring out behind him and in a moment he knew exactly what he was yelling about ... the chicken.  Ai ya., Kale thought, he had forgotten all about it.  He watched as Walton put out the fire and set the chicken on the stove top.  When he asked what it was supposed to be Kale bit his lip and said hopefully, "Blackened chicken?  Ain't that supposed ta be a delicacy or somethin' somewhere, I'm sure I heard that.  S'pose ta be right nice."

"This is not a delicacy, Kale." Walton said, motioning to the black and charred chicken, "This is burnt chicken." Walton frowned and shook his head.  "Okay Kale, out of the kitchen.  Your cooking privelages have been revoked." Walton said.

Rhaef stood in the corner of the kitchen and laughed. For the first time since Regina, that he could remember. The Professor nearly chased Kale out of the kitchen with a pot, and Rhaef could not help but laugh. It was almost like old times. As he spoke, he realized that he could not help but let his gaze wander toward the dining room, where Charlie and Ren were talking.

"Aw, come on, it ain't that bad.  Just gonna be a lil' dry." Kale said, poking at the cripsy burnt outside, one look from Walton though and Kale was backing out of the kitchen.  His eyes met Geoff's and then Rhaef's and he merely said, "Not a word, not a word from either of ya." and left the kitchen.

Wei-Li watched the professor chase Kale out and gave him an apologetic look.  "Sorry..." she said softly as she rung her hands in her apron.

Then she looked at Geoff and the Professor.  "Sorry..." she repeated.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:21, Mon 24 Apr 2006.

Walton sighed as he looked at Wei-Li, "It's not your fault dear, the boys hopeless in the kitchen.  He knew what job I gave him." he looked at the chicken again.  "Well I suppose I should see what I can salvage from this mess." he said grabbing one of the kitchen knives.  The inside of the chicken wasn't burnt but it was sure going to be very dry, not at all the meal he had been hoping to give Kale and his crew.  Of course that was not his fault.  A small smile played at the corners of his mouth, Kale, my boy, what are we going to do with you? he thought.

Rhaef walked over to where Walton was looking at the chicken. "What if we stewed it, sir? Mixed in some of your famous spices and homegrown vegetables, and we could probably have a great chicken stew in about another hour or so. Wei's salad could be served as an appetizer to tide us over to them." Rhaef had not really revealed his cooking abilities in the past, but when you worked for the Hand, you were often learning to rebuild and redisguise other poorly prepared meals into something more edible.

Walton smiled at Rhaef, not commenting on the fact that he had never seemed to show any interest in cooking prior to this moment since Walton had known him.  He had learned long ago that this young man was full of secrets.  Walton picked up on many of them, often ones even Rhaef himself did not realize ... but he could not pretend to know them all.  "Ah, right you are, Rhaef, right you are.  All these talented cooks and yet somehow Kale manages to work his way into the kitchen, how does that happen." he wondered aloud, a smile on his lips however.  It was obvious that despite the captains terrible cooking skills and the fact that he had just practically chased him from the kitchen Walton was still very fond of Kale.

He set a large pot on the stove top beside Geoff's corn and potatoes and set some water to boil.  He would begin adding seasoning and the like to make a hearty broth which he could place the chicken in.

Geoff had settled in to his work until he had heard the professor yell at the captain for something. He had turned to see and had to stifle a laugh at the sight of the burned chicken. It had already been all cooked and the captain had still managed to mess it up, it seemed. He chuckled to himself as the captain was ordered out of the kitchen and shook his head as he went back to work.

Rhaef nodded, "Sir, I wouldn't say I was talented. Just capable salvaging the cooking mistakes of others. A necessity in the old days." Rhaef replied noticing the sidelong glance the Professor had given him.

Ren smiled and gave Charlie a kiss on the cheek, "Thanks Mei Mei," he said, his smile growing as he headed towards the china cabinet and began pulling out plates.

As he headed back, Ren paused, and gave Charlie a very serious, yet caring look.  "And after Dinner... maybe we talk?"

Wei-li smiled, grateful for the professor's words, though she still felt bad since she was the source of Kale's distraction.  She tried to go back to simply chopping the vegies, and then gave up-- she could do the job much better the way she knew.

So her chopping went back to the rhythmic tapping of the knife as she turned the vegies into salad parts.  Her work wasn't finished then though.  She quickly began aranging the salad.  Most of the ingredients were mixed in with the different leaves of letuce, but  she left out some carrots and cucumbers.  The cucumbers were arrayed around the edge and the final carrots were turned into carrot strips which were delicately splayed on top of the salad.

Walton, Geoff, and Wei-Li (minus Kale) finished up the dinner and were soon placing the platters of food onto the dining room table that Ren and Acacia had already set.

"Dinner!" Walton called out to those that weren't already awaiting the meal and sat down himself waiting for the others to take their seat.  Rhaef's suggestion had worked pretty well, although the chicken still did have a slightly burnt tasted to it the seasonings in the stew covered it up for the most part.

Charlie gave Ren another smile, starting to move back to the other room so that she could put the books back in the bag.  She stopped and looked at Ren when he spoke last, still keeping her smile on.  "Everything's fine, Bear.  Don'cha be killin' y'self with th'worry or nothin'."

She was interrupted by Walton's call to dinner, heading back to the dining area and pulling out out a chair.  "I'm not rememberin'...last time we ate on some other'n the ship.  We've been for drinks n'all before, but this's been a while, y'know?"

Lei had looked through about a third of the Professor's book, having already read atleast a little of each of them. She set aside the ones on astrology and Agriculture and picked up one on how to build a greenhouse on a ship. She looked over the dimensions and the blue prints and realised that she would need a good amount of wood and a lot of different tools.

She had the book in her hand when she heard the professor call. She walked out of his study and headed into the kitchen, covered completely in dust. The dust clung to her clothes, sprinkled over her dark hair and was all over her hands. She shook her head slightly and gave a small sneeze.

She walked over to Geoff, showing him the blue print of the greenhouse, "Geoff, I want to build this. I want to grow food!" She looked at him excitedly, waiting for his approval.

Rhaef moved to the table and sat down in his normal chair near the end of the table. He waited for the others to move in around him. He heard Lei talking to Geoff, and thought that if the kid could pull it off, he'd help put up some the credits for the greenhouse, anything would beat eatin' protein bars all the time.

Ren gave Charlie a 'we are going to talk' look before moving into the dining room and finisheing the work Acacia had started.

He looked quite pleased when dinner was announced and as the others filed in, he pulled Acacia's chair out for her and waited for her to be seated.

Acacia walked over to the seat that Ren was holding for her.  She smiled  leaned up and kissed him on the cheek, Such a gentleman She said.

Acacia smoothed out her dress and was seated.  She pulled the chair in after her.  Acacia sighed as she relaxed in her chair.  She Folded her hands in her lap and patiently waited for the others to be seated as well.

Ren smiled and sat down next to her.  "I try," he answered, the paused.

He coudln't help himself.  Each time he looked at her it was as if he was looking at her for the first time, and each time, he managed to fall in love more.  He looked around the table at his family and the others as he thought about what Charlie had said.

Geoff was rather proud of his help in the preparation of dinner. He thought he had done pretty well. At least he hadn't gotten kicked out of the kitchen like the captain. He smiled to himself at that, fully intending to rub that in the captain's face when he got the chance. He backed up his big talking pretty well and that was something he wasn't going to let the captain forget anytime soon.

When the professor and they got everything set up and the others were called for dinner, Geoff went back into the kitchen to wash his hands and to put the apron back. He was just about to untie the apron when Lei came in, quite excited about something.

He looked to her with a light laugh as hemoved to dust her off a bit. "Heh. Damn. Where the hell were ya ta get yerself all covered in dust like that? C'mere ta the sink an' get cleaned up while I see 'bout whatcha talkin' 'bout.", he said as he took the blueprints from her to study them,"Hmmmm. Greenhouse, eh? Heh. Ya don't go halfway with things, do ya? I thought it was gonna be somethin' small. Well, I don't know much 'bout growin' anythin', but I'm pretty good with buildin' things so I think we could pull it off. It'll give us somethin' ta do while we're in the black, anyway. Gonna hafta ask the cap'n fer permission though. It's still his boat, after all."

Kale took a seat between Rhaef and Walton, a little surprised at first to see the pot of stew on the table, having been vaguely expecting Walton to go ahead and set out his burnt chicken just to prove his point that Kale shouldn't be allowed in the kitchen.  He was pleased to see though that Walton had been able to fix his disaster.  He still felt bad about that.  He really had intended to just carve up the chicken like he had asked ...

Wei-Li carried the salad out and placed it in the middle of the table, then found an unoccupied seat.  She made sure there was room for Geoff to sit either next to or across from Lei.

She wasn't exactly sure where she fit in, but she found herself hoping she could.

Rhaef smiled at Lei and Geoff, "Hey Geoff, if she's serious, I'll help front the construction costs, it'd be nice to have some real food on the ship sometimes."

As he watched the food be served Rhaef's eyes wandered around the table, looking at his crew mates, the people who had taken him in.

Walton smiled as Lei came into the room, dust covered which obviously had come from his stacks of books.  He didn't interrupt her and Geoff's conversation but he grinned privately at what Lei wished to do.  Build a greenhouse onboard Destiny ... the girl was quite extrodinary ... yes quite extrordinary indeed.

"Alright you two, come along, time for dinner." he said, prodding Geoff and Lei into the dining room.  It made him happy to see his big table surrounded by smiling faces.  He got awfully lonely sometimes here all by himself, sure he had his books ... but sometimes one wanted to find friends in teh real world.  And there was no one's company he loved so well as the crew of Destiny.

He smiled, "It makes me truly happy to have you all here today." he commented as he took a seat, everyone seemed to be waiting, "Well, what are we waiting for, dig in!" he said.  And began spooning out bowls of the stew.

Acacia grabbed the napkin off the table and placed in on her lap.  She waited for her turn and grabbed a bowl of the stew.  Without a word the whole time just a content smile on her face.  A meal with friends was so nice.  Made her remember some of the meals she had with her family before everything had gone to pieces.  She slowly began eating her food.  Keeping an eye on everything.

Lei nodded at Geoff and went over to the sink. She washed her hands and shook her head to remove the dust from her hair. She ripped off some paper towel, wet it gently and used it to remove the dust from her clothing. It sucked the dust up easily.

She grinned at Geoff, "I was looking at the books in the Professor's study! He has so many books! Geography, anthropology, astrology and even history from Earth-that-was....of wars and colonization. The most fascinating is agriculture. I already have an idea for cross pollination on sweet peas."

She washed her face and then she came to the table and smiled brightly at the Professor as if he had given her an increidble gift.

Ren smiled as the food was passed around the table and he realized that everyone seemed to be in a good mood.  He patted his pocket and then smiled.  Everything was as perfect as he could hope.

"Acacia," he called.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:05, Thu 27 Apr 2006.

Acacia heard her name as it was called.  She turned to answer quickly. Yes? She said looking to Ren.  She looked in horror as she said it.  In her haste she hadn't realized she had the spoon halfway in her bowl of steww.  The bowl had followed the spoon and the spoon led it right off the edge of the table........and right into the middle of Ren's Chest.  She stood up quickly stiffling a giggle, oh Sweetie I'm so sorry. She said trying to napkin off as much as she could as quickly as she could.

Kale had a forkfull of salad almost to his mouth when Acacia had knocked her entire bowl of soup into Ren's lap.  He tried to stifle his grin for a moment but as he looked around at the rest of his crew seated about the table he couldn't help but laugh outright.  Here Ren had looked like he had something all important-like to say to the girl and she spills a bowl of soup on him.  He was so busy laughing that he didn't really think about the serious tone that had been in Ren's voice moments before.

Ren froze.  His loving expression vanished, replaced with one of shock and surprise as he realized what was happening, and the fact that there was nothing he could do about it.

He winced expecting pain as the stew hit him, and then shook his head and laughed.  "I'm okay..." he told her as he took her napkin, and kissed her hand before passing her his bowl and excusing himself.

As he passed the professor he shrugged.  "Good stuff," he commented as he nodded towards his shirt then slipped into the bathroom before any of the stew fell off him and onto the floor.

Wei-Li watched as the stew hit Ren, glad that she wasn't involved.  she was also relieved that his reaction was as good natured as it was.  She wasn't sure she would have been able to laugh it off... but she guess that if you loved a person enough... you could take an occasional shot of stew.

She smiled when she saw the others reaction and was glad she was among friends.

Geoff had grinned at Rhaef as he offered to put up the money for Lei's project and then he grinned to the professor as he prodded him and Lei to the table. He nodded to him and then moved with Lei, after she had finished washing up, to the table. He nodded to Lei as she spoke of books and history and...cross pollination?!

"Cross polli-what now? Yer gonna hafta be dumbin' that down fer me, little lady. Agriculture and such ain't exactly my area o' expertise.", he said with a laugh as he ruffled her hair fondly,"Glad ya found some stuff that ya find interestin' though."

He took a seat at the table next to Lei, smiling to Wei-li who seemed to have been the one who made sure such seats were left open for them. He then grinned to the professor as he began passing out bowls, making sure Lei got a bowl of her own before getting one for himself and digging in with great enthusiasm. He found that the stew was quite good, despite the main ingredient being the captain's burned chicken.

He smiled at that thought and had been about to make a comment about his own aptitude in the kitchen being superior to the captain's, as he had said it was, when Acacia spilled the stew on Ren. Geoff grinned slightly at that and, as the captain started laughing outright, allowed a slight chuckle to leave him. He shook his head in wry amusement before digging into the stew again.

Lei took the bowl from Geoff and took a small bite. She didn't laugh at the incident with Acacia, but turned back to Geoff, "Cross pollination is the process of mixing the genetics of two different, yet similar species, referring to plants, together typically in the hopes of creating a better plant with the best qualities of both. So if I wanted a flower that was...pink, then I would cross pollinate a red flower with a white flower and I have 100 percent chance of obtaining a pink color."

She put another fork full of salad into her mouth. Her eyes glanced at the Professor, wondering what he thought about her definition and if he wanted to add anything.

Rhaef noticed the odd quiet comfort of the room, so much like everyone was at home. It was the thing he missed most about being here on Regina. The planet may not look like much to most folks, but to him it looked like home.

Despite her laughter at Ren, Charlie remained mostly quiet at the table, simply content to listen to the chatter around her.  The past month or two had been rather hectic, with them running about and getting shot at and god knows what else.  It was times like these that reminded her how much of a family that they were.  She can't seem to help herself from looking up ar Rhaef, hoping that she could catch some sort of eye contact...something, at least.

Rhaef looks up and happens to catch Charlie's eye, and holds it, not sure what to do or what to expect. He smiles shyly.

Acacia looked down and wasn't sure whether to laugh or what.  She slipped back into her chair and picked up her bowl.  Can I have some more please? She said and busted out laughing.  She wiped off the stray bits on her clothes and hands while she did.

Geoff looked to Lei with a quizzical expression as she explained the concept of cross-pollination to him. He looked to think the whole thing over for a moment and then shook his head and sighed. "Well, little lady, I ain't gonna claim to rightly understand everythin' ya just said, but I think I get the gist o' it. Like when ya take two prize racin' horses and breed 'em ta try an' get a better an' faster horse from 'em. I know a bit 'bout that. Don't rightly know how it works fer flowers though. Didn't quite think flowers...uh...did the thing that I'll explain ta ya when yer older.", he said with a sheepish chuckle. Sometimes Geoff had to remind himself that Lei was still a young girl, despite her intelligence, so he had to be careful about some of the stuff he said.

Lei nodded at his anology of the horses, agreeing that the same situation would work. She finished her salad off and looked shyly at the Professor, "Mr. Professor? I found the most amazing books on agriculture and I was wondering if I could....borrow them...maybe?"

Walton had been listening avidly to Lei and Geoff's conversation, although he had not appeared to be, he hadn't missed a word.  In his mind he was formulating an idea.  A girl like Lei, a girl truly extrordinary ... she needed to be given the gift of learning.  To be shown the door to knowledge and understanding.  Walton thought that perhaps ... well, it'd have to be discussed ...

He looked up when Lei addressed him, "You are welcome to whatever your heart desires, dear.  Who am I to stand in the way of the eager mind?"

THe conversation continues around the table.  Everyone thoroughly enjoying the good meal and company.  There was something about being here in the Professor's house, all together that really made them feel like a family.  When the meal was over Ren and Acacia offered to handle the dishes, everyone else dispersed throughout the house, except for Rhaef who had wandered outside for a cigarette.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 03:38, Sat 29 Apr 2006.

Rhaef wandered outside, and lit a cigarette. He was reflecting on what had happened here. It seemed strange but Charlie almost seemed to be trying to get his attention, could he have been wrong?

His mind was filled with many questions, and doubts. The events on Osiris had truly shaken him, and he did not know what he should do at this point.

Walton had notice Rhaef slip outside as the others filtered into the living room or kitchen and so taking his leave he stepped outside as well.  The man was leaning over the railing of his front porch, a cigarette in hand.  Walton came up beside him, leaning his elbows on the railing as well, looking out into the night.  He said nothing for a few minutes.  When he spoke he did not look at Rhaef.

"'He who makes a beast of himself gets rid of the pain of being a man.'" he looked over at Rhaef, "But no one wishes to be free of that pain, Rhaef. That is why you fight against it, and because you fight you will never become that beast you so fear."

Ren had finished cleaning the stew off his shirt, and set to work helping carry dishes into the kitchen.  When he looked at the roasting pan he sighed.

"Damn... captain sure did a number on that bird," he told Acacia.  "You washing or drying?"
This message was last edited by the player at 05:00, Sat 29 Apr 2006.

Acacia Ran up and grabbed him around the neck Have I told you lately you are wonderful   She pulls him down and kisses him deeply.  Not an angry world at all about wearing my dinner She reluctantly pulls away.  I'll dry

Rhaef looks at the Professor. "But sir, I am the beast. When we were Osiris, I saw this again. I saw it in Lei's eyes, she saw me for what I was. I'm not sure I can ever shake it. I've done so much, seen so much. Sir, I'm afraid, I endanger everyone by my very presence. I mean, we got lucky, but what if next time someone gets hurts...what if Charlie gets hurt..." Rhaef stopped speaking unable to say more.

Ren smiled, relaxing into the kiss.  "If I'm wonderful-- its because of you... I just..." he sighed as he started the water running.

"Thank you for staying..." he said softly.

Walton smiled gently, "You'd never let that happen." he said, completely confident.  "Rhaef, you know the darker side of life, the shadows that very few ever look into.  This does not make you part of them, just more aware.  The life you all lead is a dangerous one, there will always be close calls, but to presume that the fault is all yours, that you are always the cause of their endangerment ... well you flatter yourself entirely too much."

"But professor, the things I've done...the things I've seen...can I really be free of that?" Rhaef asked honestly, "Can I really be the good guy?"

As the others filed out of the dining area Wei-Li paused.  She really wanted to talk to Geoff... and Lei, though she wasn't sure if Lei would ever give her the chance...

She bit her lip, and watched the others finally taking a deep breath and calling.  "Lei... "

Walton shrugged his shoulders, "I don't know, Rhaef.  Can you?" he looked at him sternly, "Are you the beasts master? Or does the beast master you?  Only one of those options would have lead you to Destiny."

"I am not sure, Professor. I want to believe that I am the beast's master, but how do I know for sure?" Rhaef sighed.

Acacia picks up a cloth and begins drying the first pan.  She hears Ren say something. She turns and looks, Did you say something love She says.  Placing the towel on the counter.

Once Lei finished eating her dinner, she had turned back to the right page in the book to show Geoff, "We will need wood, plastic, and enough space to build this green house. I want to install it with an automatic sprinkler system and an environmental control system to alter the humidity if needed..."

She turned when she heard her name being called. Then she saw it was Wei-Li and she moved a little closer to Geoff and turned back to the book.

"Because you are loved Rhaef ... although you don't realize it." Walton chuckled.  "And trust me, one does not love a beast." he stood up then, nodded to Rhaef and headed for the door back into the house.  Before he did however he paused and looked back, "Don't worry so much, Rhaef, let yourself live your life ... its the only one you've got."

Rhaef turned his head at the Professor when he spoke, but did not say anything. The Professor never wasted words, nor did he mince them. Rhaef wanted to say something about what happened on Osiris, but the Professor would not have mentioned the story unless he saw something.

Rhaef paused and wondered, maybe Charlie was not mad at him. She had been trying to make eye contact during dinner. Well if nothing else, he needed to talk to her, clear the air. It was the first step to taking the Professor's advice and deciding to live life, rather than fear it.

He stubbed out his cigarette and a few minutes later, followed the professor back into the house, to seek out Charlie.

Wei-Li gave an exasperated sigh at Lei's response.  She really needed to talk to Lei and get things settled, or at least a better idea on how unsettled it was.

She moved closer.  "Lei... please... I need to talk to you..."

Charlie sighed, having slipped away from the table relatively unnoticed.  She was back in the den, proper on a good sofa with a book in her hands.  Clean clothes and set of glasses, and she could have looked like someone from the core...at least, in her head, that's what she entertained.  In truth, there was no telling what she looked like.  It didn't really matter, though...not here.  Not in Walton's home, which was sanctuary to Destiny.

She shook her head, looking back into the book.  Not only did it give her a chance to start reading these new books, but it also allowed her to keep her mouth shut.  She knew that she didn't speak proper, like the schooled folk would.  That usually didn't matter, because what she lacked in verbal skills she made up for with her hands-on work.  However, Walton didn't ride on the ship...he didn't know her as the mechanic.  He knew her as an unschooled girl who would have to learn proper, in her late 20's who could be outread by probably anyone on the boat.  Most people would see her as she is, simple.  Some people made her think about what she wished she could be.  The Professor, however, was one of the few that made her conscious of who she was.

She took another look up, making sure that they didn't need a hand cleaning up, and then went back into the linguistics book that Walton had given her...

Geoff had finished eating dinner after everybody else, having helped himself to seconds, thirds and fourths. He was satisfied after the meal though and had sat back in his seat, idly thinking about seeing if there was any hard liqour in the place and listening to Lei with a smile. She was really excied about this greenhouse idea and Geoff was happy about that. It was good to see her happy and excited about things after all of the things she had been through. Most kids wouldn't be able to bounce back from such things, but then Lei wasn't most kids. Sometimes Geoff forgot that she was a kid at all.

He was reminded of it, however, when Wei-Li called to her and she reacted by moving closer to him and sticking her nose in the book. Geoff sighed slightly at this and shook his head. He wasn't quite clear about what had happened between Lei and Wei-Li and Rhaef while they were on Osiris, but he knew that the girl was not happy with either of the two recently. That wasn't a good thing at all. Lei would probably be having to deal with Rhaef for a long while and Wei-Li would be on the ship for awhile too. At least until they got her back home, he supposed. Not to mention the fact that Geoff had a bit of an interest in Wei-Li that Lei would not react well to if she never got along with Wei-Li again.

Geoff shrugged and looked to Lei with a bit of a reassuring smile as he gestured toward Wei-Li. "Little lady, c'mon. Ya should at least talk to her. Talkin' to her ain't gonna hurt. I mean, I don't even rightly know why yer so 'fraid o' her.", he said in a soft tone,"Jus' talk to her. Please?"

Rhaef walked through the house watching the interplay of the others. Geoff, Lei and Wei-Li dancing their dance of introductions, Acacia and Ren being a happy couple in the kitchen. He had lost track of both the Professor and Kale, although he would not be surprised if they were not talking business. The Professor did summon them for a job and all. Not seeing Charlie anywhere, Rhaef had a pretty good idea where she was.

He moved back to the study, and knocked lightly on the door, and taking a deep breath and calming himself, pushed it open, and saw Charlie. He was moved by how attractive and comfortable she looked curled up among books in the study. "Um, hey, Charlie, do you have second to talk?" He said nervously.

Ren smiled at Acacia, then looked lovingly into her eyes.  "Thank you... for staying with us... with me..."

He put his hands gently on her shoulders and leaned down to kiss her.

Lei looked at Wei-li and then back at Geoff and she shook her head and she leaned up to whisper in Geoff's ear, "Wei-li and Rhaef talked to the men who took me. They're friends with the mean men. They want to try to grab me, please don't make me talk to her."

She squeezed Geoff's hand and burried her face in his arm.

Acacia grinned and blushed slightly.  She wrapped her arms around Ren's neck. I'm not sure I could stand leaving you. She cturned and cleared her throat.  She wiped a small tear of happiness out of her eye.  I think we....we need to get finishing these dishes.....people might talk

Charlie immediately shut the book when Rhaef walked in, covering her mouth as if she was just caught.  She had been sounding out words, bigger ones that she didn't use.  She'd heard them before, even from members of the crew.  There was never a need for large fancy words in her line of work, and thusly, it was never really given much thought.  However, with the Professor's teaching, that was all very different now.

"Rhaef...ah, yeah, ah...yeah, ah'm not doin' nothin'.  I mean, readin'n such, but that's...whether y'can account 'fer that bein' somethin' more than, y'know...words."  She spoke a bit awkwardly, setting the book down beside her and curling up her legs.  "Sorry, just...yeah, what'cha got on th'mind?"

Rhaef watched Charlie putting book down, he got the sense that she was a bit self-conscious, although he could never understand, she was plenty smart and and a hell of a mechanic, and who cared what else.

He shifted his weight from one foot to the other, back and forth, why was he so damn nervous. "Well, you know, I, um just wanted to talk about what happened on Osiris. Make sure you aren't mad at me."

Kale had wandered into Walton's study as the others settled themselves in the living room.  His hands moved slowly across the spines of the books on the shelves, his eyes roaming over the pictures on the walls of when Walton had traveled.  He stopped at a dusty box in the corner of the room, it contained tons of plaques and certificates - the type of things that one would normally display on the wall, but Walton had them gathering dust in this box.

Kale picked one up.  PROFESSOR OF THE YEAR - FREEMONT UNIVERSITY it read in gold lettering.  Kale rubbed the dust from it, looking at it sadly.  That box contained all the ghosts of Walton's past.  All tucked away where he didn't have to see them.  Although Kale was sure that with Walton is was not so much a matter of hiding from the past but rather his way of putting it behind him.  Walton had wanted so much back in those days for Kale to take to his schooling.  But Kale had the feeling that he had always known that Kale was not cut out for such things.  It wasn't his way.  For better or worse.  If Kale had not gone off to fight for the Independents back then and stayed at Freemont his life would have been very different.

It was partially why Kale was sure that Walton was interested in Lei.  She was smart.  Just the type of pupil Walton had always wanted.  Kale heard the padding of feet behind him then and looked up.  Walton had entered the room.  Kale set the plaque back in the box.  Neither of them said anything about it.  It was already understood.  The two didn't say anything at all for a few minutes before Kale finally spoke, "So what do you think of the crew?" he said.

Walton sighed, and stepped completely into the room, swinging the door shut behind him.  "The girls a danger to you." he said, walking towards his desk, he didn't go behind it though but rather leaned up against it.  He had been thinking a lot about the girl since the crew of Destiny had arrived.  When he looked over at Kale he smiled, "Don't look so surprised. It doesn’t take a genius to deduce that a child you found in a box under mysterious circumstances is just asking to bring you and your crew trouble.”

Kale sunk into one of the comfortable leather chairs across from Walton's desk with a small chuckle as he rubbed the back of his neck, of course Walton was right, he knew full well that keeping Lei on was dangerous at best, “Yeah, well, it’s the risk ya take, s’pose.” he said, and he meant it.  Lei had become part of his family over the past month.  There was going to be no tearing her away now.  Mostly because Geoff'd probably kill him if he tried.

Walton just nodded at Kale's comment, still looking thoughtful, "She's smart.  Beyond her years." he said, thinking of the girls plans to build a greenhouse on board Destiny.  That was not some simple feat and Lei's ideas for it sounded almost revolutionary.

“Probably smarter than me an’ my whole crew combined.” Kale conceded, watching Walton wondering exactly where he was going with this, there could be no telling with him sometimes.

"Do you know why that is?" Walton asked, "You must realize that her intellect ... it is not normal.  Not normal by far for a girl so young -"

“Don’ see how that rightly matters …” Kale said, Walton was getting at something.  Kale was afraid that he wanted to berate Kale for putting his crew in danger ... something that he had done far too often as of late to be able to listen to Walton tell him that.  Kale knew that he was too trusting, he knew that was too willing sometimes to lend a hand to the underdog.  Those were not traits that you wanted when you lived a life like his.  Too dangerous.  It had gotten Kale in trouble more then his fair share.

And the one time that he had ever gone against his natural instincts.  The one time that he had obeyed orders that he felt were wrong, decided to not lend that hand ... that time, he felt, had cost the Independents the war.  Kale couldn't win sometimes - its just wasn't ever going to work for him.  Nothing was ever going to go smooth.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:43, Tue 02 May 2006.

“But you see it does." Walton said, "She is an enigma … something that you do not understand.  And what people do not understand they fear.  It is only natural.  You, my boy, do not show the proper amount of fear.  Fear of the unknown.  Anyone else would have shut the child back up in that box and delivered her to the authorities.  You however, did not.  And for that you are mighty. You and your crew and all people like you … You are brash, impulsive, fearless, and hopelessly stupid … you are human.  And that is something that the Alliance will never understand.  That is why they’ll lose.“ he had not been intending to say all this to Kale.  His purpose had been to request that Lei stayed here with him ... but something about Kale's last response.  He knew the man well enough by now to know that there were things weighing on him that he rarely let out.

Kale shook his head, “They can’t lose a war they already won.” he said, hating that Walton had been able to read his thoughts so easily, sometimes he swore the man was a reader.  The ache inside him threatened to push him through pain beyond all endurance just at the thought of the Alliance, of the fight he had lost.  He had dedicated his life to independence … when it ended …

As usual, as though Squire could read his mind he said, “You think you lost at Serenity, Kale, what our foes do not understand is that the battle has not yet even begun.”

“Tell that to all those men and women who -”

“Stop right there.” Walton said, refusing to allow Kale to begin wallowing in past defeats.  That had not been his intended purpose.  But Kale kept on talking.

“Listen, Squire, I ain’t some gorram hero.  I ain’t this fearless creature yer conjurin’ outta some fairytale.  I got plenty ‘o fear.  You can’t have been where I been and seen what I seen without feelin’ it.  That fear crawlin’ up yer spine and sinkin’ in its teeth.  An’ it don’ make me mighty.  It makes me mean, and weak, an’ ….“ Kale couldn’t even continue, he never let himself get worked up like this and here he was, he gritted his teeth together as he continued, “I fear each an’ every day that they’ll take away only thing I got left.”

Walton listened carefully to Kale speak, he didn't move, he didn't try to interject.  He simply let him say what he had to before asking quietly, "And what is that?"

Kale looked up at Walton, “My crew, my boat … what they mean … freedom.” he said, leaning his elbows on his knees.  That really was all the mattered to him in this life.  The only things that could really have any meaning at all.

“What about yourself?  You didn’t say you feared they’d take away your life.” Walton said, with a gentle look.

“You know damn well that ain’t somethin’ I’m worried about.” he said, and it wasn't.  As long as his crew was okay.  As long as there was Destiny, and people out there to fly her, to keep freedom alive ... well that's all that really mattered.  Squire stared at him evenly and a silent understanding passed between them.  Kale just nodded his head.

“You’re a good man, Kale.  Too good for this world.  It’s a pity you have to live in it.” Walton said finally, after their silence.

Geoff looked down at Lei, patting her head and then stroking her hair in what he hoped was a soothing way. He looked to Wei-Li with a shrug, not knowing exactly how to handle this. Lei was deathly afraid of people trying to take her and put her back into captivity again and, if she associated Wei-Li with such people, he didn't know if Lei would ever trust her. Geoff knew that Wei-Li would never hurt Lei or anything of that sort, but convincing the girl of that would be a difficult task.

First things first, though. He would at least have to try and get her to talk to her. "It's all right, Little Lady. Nobody's gonna grab ya 'round here. Not so long as I'm 'round. Yer safe here, no matter what.", he said in a soft voice, trying to be soothing and calm,"Now look, the cap'n wouldn't be lettin' Wei-Li or Rhaef on the ship if'n they were friends with the people that done tried and take you. More than that, I wouldn't be on friendly terms with people who were tryin' ta hurt ya in any way. So, seein' as how I'm on friendly terms with Wei-Li and...uh...I can tolerate Rhaef, that means they don't mean you no harm. Now, please, jus' talk to her. I'll be right here with ya, if'n it makes it better fer ya."

"Let them talk," he said as he looked tenderly into her eyes.  "I mean... the roasting pan needs to soak," he added in an almost teasing tone.

He took the towel from her hand and tossed it over his shoulder.  Then with a teasing grin he added.  "Besides I have to pay you back for the stew shower..."

Despite his teasing tone, he didn't attack but simply held her close.

"Mad?"  Charlie raised a bit of an eyebrow.  He was the one who had been avoiding her, and now he was saying that he thought she was the one who was mad?  She was already confused about what had been going on, but this...this was just a little crazy.  "Rhaef, I-...no.  Nah, I'm not th'type t'be carryin' a grudge for whatever reason, y'know?  S'at all you had'n your mind, or...?"

Rhaef got the sense that Charlie had something else on her mind, but he did not know what. "No, that's about it Charlie, I just wanted to make sure, after all that happened that night, you weren't upset or anything. I know I've been avoidin' ya, but that's cause I thought you were mad at me. Maybe that what happened was a mistake, and was driving a wedge between us."

Charlie set down the book she had been reading, standing up and crossing her arms.  He was dancing around something, or hiding something...either way, he was being vague.  "Look, y'know...ah'm not really sure what all happened that night'n such, 'cause I'll admit, Geoff got me real good'n drunk.  Probably anythin' coulda happened that night'n such.  All I know is that you're actin' like someone done up'n killed your puppy, r'whatever, y'know?"  Charlie brushed a bit of hair behind an ear, playing with the end of the strand between her fingers as she watched Rhaef.

"Look.  Ah'm not sure what all was done, r'even what all wasn't done, if'n that be th'case.  All I'm gonna say is...well, y'know...I don't like havin' all this tension t'be floatin'round 'tween th'two of us.  I've known ya 'fer too long t'be makin' some sort'f enemy outta ya, 'cause you're not th'enemy.  Y've saved my more'n share of times that I've saved you, which is...y'know, none?"  Charlie cleared her throat as she looked down, her toe starting to trace a circle on the ground.  "I'm jus'...I don't want t'be losin' you as a friend, y'know?  Because, whatever's happenin' here, this's all worse 'cause I feel like I can't be talkin' to ya.  So, if'n it's alright, can we jus'...y'know, go back t'tha way things were?"

Rhaef smiled wanely, "Let's be friends, he thought to himself, but then again, it was better than "I never want to talk to you again."

Rhaef nodded, "yeah, Charlie, I know what you mean. You're probably my closest friend on this boat, and its been hell walkin' on eggshells. And trust me, you done saved my life more than once, even if you don't rightly know it."

He paused and walked over to where she was standing and extended his hand, as if to suggest a handshake would seal the deal.

"Rhaef..."  A smike broke the corners of her lips as he held out his hand.  She put her hands on her hips, shaking her head.  "You know me better'n that.  C'mon."  She pushed his hand aside, moving closer and putting her arms around his shoulders, giving him a hug.  She let out a sigh, standing on the tips of her toes so that she wouldn't have her face buried in his chest.

"I was 'fraid I lost ya there.  Y'mean a lot to me.  Y'know that, right?"

Rhaef embraced Charlie, a small part of his mind, hoping this might be a good sign for the future. "'Course I do, Charlie, 'course I do. And there was plenty a'time on Osiris, I thought I'd lost you, as well."  He paused. "And Charlie, just know, that whatever you hear about what I was, and what I might have done, just remember you know who I am, judge me by that, kay?"

Lei felt soothed by his gentle stroking of her hair. She did feel safe around Geoff, and had been confused as to what Wei-Li's and Rhaef's connection had been to the mean men. She trusted Geoff to tell her the truth and he certaintly had been keeping her safe since the incident. She wondered if she had missunderstood everything.

She looked at Geoff and then exchanged a glance with Wei-Li. Still holding onto Geoff's arms she said softly, "What do you wanna talk about?"

Wei-Li gave Lei a gentle smile, and closed her eyes as she sat down in front of Lei.  She simply crossed her legs in front of her and lowered herself to the floor.

"I wanted to talk to you about Osiris... about what happened.. and why you've been avoiding me..."  She said softly, her eyes searching for Lei's.  "And Rhaef..." she added as an after thought.

Lei moved her head closer to Geoff, "I'm listenin'..." She didn't like the way Wei-Li was coming closer and her eyes looked into Geoff's as if to communicate that. She shifted slightly closer to him, reminding herself that if anything were to happen he would protect her.

Wei-Li sighed.  She had sat in hopes that it would relieve some tension.  On the ground she tought perhaps Lei would see eye to eye, but instead, she was basing her reactions on what she had seen.

"Lei.. Do you know what acting is?"

Reiner Harrison, you wouldn't dare, "pay me back" Acacia said with an evil smirk.  She glared almost defiantly at him daring him to try something.  She pulled back a little snatching the towel back.

Ren shook his head and again took the towel and tossed it away, pulling her closer.  "You'll just have to keep me occupied..." he said.

His expression was an odd combination of mischief and serenity.

Lei nodded, "Yeah- the process of doing or performing something. A noun which can also mean a chartitable deed or a decision by legislative." She spoke it as if it was common knowledge.

Oh, Acacia said as she was grabbed. I do now do I? Acacia shot him a warm look.  And pray tell how would I be expected to do that? She said with a giggle.

Wei-Li smiled and nodded.  "It's also taking on a role for a purpose... either for enteraintment... or in some cases... getting along with people and even social engineering..."

"For example:  I don't like the man who owns the club where I work... but I act like I do, to make working with him go easier..." she added.  "Make sense?"

Lei nodded slowly, understanding the concept immediately, "So you were just acting with the bad men when you said that you guys were friends?" She cocked her head, wondering if she ahd gotten to the point of what she was attempting to explain.

Wei-Li smiled and nodded, suprised at how quickly Lei caught on.

"Yes, and when that didn't work, we followed them to try and free you." she answered.

Lei furrowed her brow, "But how did you know the bad men in the first place? Why would you know such men?"

She glanced up at Geoff, wondering what he thought about this whole thing.

Wei-Li shrugged.  "When you go through life-- you meet lots of people, some good, some bad-- most indifferent... "  She answered.

"We all got to meet Kyron... He was bad..." she said, rubbing her stomach without thinking about it.

"And we all meet people we don't know are good or bad... sometimes you like someone only to find out they're bad... or... you're forced to work with someone who isn't very nice... That's life."

She sighed.  "I worked with a man... backstabbing coniving... couldn't trust him with anything-- but he knew when I was stressed and he knew when to suggest we leave work and play some computer games to unwind.... He was an ass and I didn't trust him-- but he was a friend of mine..."

"Well, now, that's soundin' cryptic."  Charlie stepped back, smirking and giving him a playful punch in the arm.  "Don't be gettin' all mysterious on me.  You're Rhaef Sorandash, master'f flyin...'til we hired a gypsy."

Rhaef shurgged and laughed, as Charlie punched him. It was nice to be back on that level. Might not be what he wanted, but it was better than avoiding each other. "Okay, Charlie, I promise I won't be mysterious anymore." He paused and looked at the books surrounding her, "So, what'd the Professor give you this time?"

Ren nodded, his eyes wide and tender.  "Just completely take my mind off of any thoughts of... He kissed her after almost every word, finally losing his train of thought.

"I love you..."

Lei allowed this to all roll over in her mind before she responded, "What you're stating is that there is good and bad in everyone and not one person is all bad or all good? Therefore good and bad are merely perspectives in a variety of situations and every individual has the opportunity to make choices that could be seen as bad to one yet good to another. So life is not all black and white, but a huge mixtures of lighter and darker grays with people varying in color."

She looked up at Geoff, as if wondering what he thought of her assesment. Then she gave a small smile to Wei-Li as if saying, "All is forgiven."

Wei-Li listened to Lei and smiled.  "A bit deeper than I was going to go.. but yes," she answered giving Lei a relieved smile.

Then her smile broaded and she laughed.  "That was however... a very good kick." She told Lei then looked at Geoff and winked.  "You'da been proud of her..."

Geoff had listened with quiet interest to the talk between Wei-Li and Lei. He had been quite curious about what it was that had put animosity between the two and was glad to have some light shed on the events that had transpired. He was also glad to see that things seeemed to be resolved between the two now and things would be fine. He was very glad for that indeed. Wouldn't have been good at all for Lei not to like Wei Li when Geoff liked her quite a bit.

He had been a bit lost when the talk had seemed to steer toward the nature of good and evil within human beings, but he smiled and nodded to the both of them when they finished talking anyway. He grinned to Wei-Li's comment about Lei kicking her and ruffled Lei's hair with an affectionate smile to her.

"Really now? Heh. I do suppose I woulda been real proud o' her fer bein' able ta watch out fer herself. Seems like like she's full o' talents and such a person could be proud of.", he said with a slight laugh and then shrugged,"Though I ain't gonna say I'm glad that she kicked ya specifically, Wei-Li. Ain't somethin' I'd think I'd want her ta be doin' again. Heh."

Wei-Li laughed and winked at Geoff.  "She didn't know it was me.. and... if I had been the guy she though I was... "

She gave Lei and approving nod  "It woulda taken him down..."  She sighed, then focused on Lei.

"If you'd like I can teach you a few things my daddy taught me... 'cause a girl's big brothers aren't always going to be around..."

She sighed and looked at both of them.  "That's they way it is back home... your father, and your brothers, not to mentions an even dozen of Cousins and Uncles are watching out for ya..." she explained.

"But..." she shrugged, hoping that things were clear with her and Lei now.  She hated the idea of anybody being afraid of her.  Suspicious she was used to-- that usually happened as soon as 'I'm from Paquin' was uttered, but fear, that was new and rather unpleasant.

Some time passed as Kale and Walton's conversation turned to other things.  It had been a goodly while since the two had been given the oppotunity to talk.  Kale was reminded sharply how much he sometimes missed the old man.  He knew their stay here couldn't be long though.  It was late before he finally asked the real question and got down to business.

"So what's this job you were jawin' on about?" Kale said, leaning back in the chair he was seated in.  "Could use some honest cash."

Walton frowned slightly, folding his hands across his desk where he had seated himself.  "There will be no cash in this work - honest or no." he said placidly.  "As you well know this entire rock is inflicted with Bowden's." he knew that even he was probably slowly dying from the disease.  And as of late ... "Kale, the Alliance hasn't dropped of a supply of Pasculin-D for ere on three months now - and before that the shipment had been two months late..." he sighed heavily, "These people are dying."

Kale leaned forward as well now.  "So we're talkin' a charity run." he said, "You know I don't do those." He also knew perfectly well that Walton knew he would.  He could be mad at the man for preying on his somewhat goodly nature, but he knew about Bowden's.  Precisely why he and his crew didn't take any extended vacations at the Professor's, it was a nasty disease that one generally tried to avoid.

He sighed, "Can't say it surprises me, Alliance ain't exactly known fer doin' right by the border planets." he said, "But I ain't rightly sure what you 'tend on me an' mine doin' about it.  They only keep supplies like that on the core ... an' my crew seen enough 'o the Core ta last us a lifetime rights 'bout now.  An' it cost damn near a fortune just for an' individual supply 'o Pasculin ..." Kale trailed off as he noticed Walton's eyes twinkle.  "You got somethin' up yer sleeve, 'Ol Man, I know that look."

Walton nodded his head, "Back on Santo I had acquired a very valuable item - a stamp to be precise.  Old.  An Earth that Was antique really.  During my removal from the University and investigations following many of my belongings were ... misplaced.  Sold to use for my defense I was told." he shook his head wearily, it obviously did not please him to think on the past.  Kale was sure many of these memories were gathering dust just as surely as the box in the corner of the room.

"It recently came to my attention that my stamp had indeed been sold.  A muesem on Athens now holds it in their possession and its value has nearly doubled once more."

Kale couldn't help but grin slightly, "A stamp?  You want me an' my crew ta go break into some museum for a very fine little square 'o sticky paper?" he asked with raised brows.   "Don' think that's really gonna cover what you'd need to even make a dent in this Pasculin problem.  Can't be worth more'n a few hundred cred's."

Lei grinned at Wei-Li comment on her kicking and she visibly brightened at Geoff's account of her potential. She turned back to We-Li as she was offered to be taught some skills, she nodded rapidly.

Then she turned toward Geoff, looking for permission, "May I, *Ghuh?" It was a new term for her to use, but she loved the sound of it. She weighted the idea in her head, of how Geoff was her ghuh.



*Big Brother

"Try a few million creds." Walton said, "It was the worlds most expensive stamp back on Earth that Was ... now it is the most valuable in the 'Verse.  'The Black on Magenta' its called.  It came into my family around the year 2000 ... has been with us ever since until recently.  I've discovered its exact location and I have a contact very interested in purchasing it ... I merely need it back in my possession now.  The money from it should be enough to supply this entire city with enough Pasculin-D to last at least a few years - perhaps longer ..."

Kale let out a low whistle when Walton said the stamp was worth over a million.  "For a ruttin' scrap of paper..." he muttered and listened to Walton speak.  When he was through Kale sighed and nodded his head.

"Alright, where is this museum at exactly?"

"You'll do it then?" Walton asked.

"I've been disreputable fer worse causes." Kale said with a grin, "S'pose saving a colony from Bowden's is one 'o the better things ta be spendin' my time doin'.  You'll owe me though." he said, knowing he'd never expect the Professor to pay him back anything and knowing Walton knew that too.

Walton smiled then set about getting down to business, "The museum is on Athens, they have a high tech security system - but don't worry I have a contact for you planetside that should be able to help you bypass the systems no problem.  Connor O'Sullivan, genius when it comes to that sort of thing." he proceeded to explain what plans he had in place, Kale nodding along until well into the night.

Although there were plenty of spaces to sleep back on Destiny no one really wanted to be pulled away from the professor's warm and inviting house.  As a result the crew of Destiny ended up dispersed about the small house taking all manner of sleeping arrangements.

They were awoken by the smell of bacon.  Walton, having woken up early was now in the kitchen cooking breakfast.  The inviting aroma of food wafting through the house.

The sun had begun to come through the windows, warming Walton's house as light took to the surfaces, casting away shadows and awakening this side of the planet for a new day.  It beamed through table legs and drawn curtains, slowly casting up on Charlie.  She'd curled up on the floor, hardly sleeping in a bed unlike the rest of a crew.  While she'd started on an overstuffed armchair, and as comfortable as it was, she just couldn't sleep in it.  She'd thusly curled up on the floor, arms crossed under her head and hair splayed out wildly around her.

Charlie let out a murmur, banked in sunlight like a cat, stretching out her arms and legs on the floor before she got up.  The smells of hot food made it's way to every corner of the house, permeating everything within.  Charlie ran her hands through her hair, knowing it wouldn't look right until she fixed it.  The last time she had actually fixed it, however, was when they were on Paquin...when she had a proper wash in the lake.  She pulled the dark locks away, bundling them back behind her head with a rubber band, leaving the errant strands hanging as they usually did.  Good as new.

She padded into the kitchen, bare feet on the wooden floors, smiling a bit.  "If'n I didn't know better, y'know, ah'd assume you'd be tryin' to keep a few of us from stayin' with all'n th'hospitality."  She spoke to Walton, her words more of a murmur due to just waking up.

Rhaef stirred as Charlie moved from the library to kitchen. He had settled on the hallway floor as a place he could hear any problems and be there quickly. Plus, he had slept in far worse places in his life, so the wide, warm hallway was not an inconvience for him. Stretching and standing up, he rubbed his hand across the stubble of a beard that was forming, and followed Charlie into the kitchen.

"Charlie's right, Professor. You keep feeding us this well, ain't no one us gonna want to leave." Rhaef said with a smile.

Lei had slept in one of the rooms near Geoff and filled with books. She had fallen asleep reading books, but had managed to create new blue prints for a greenhouse that would easily fit the inside of the ship. Her sleep had been mostly serene, but she saw the dark shadows coming in again, whispering about data.

She woke up in a light sweat, trembling from the images. She piled up her blanket to her and headed to where she knew Geoff was. If he was asleep, she would crawl in his embrace beside him, if he was awake, she would tug at his hand.

Walton smiled at the two and chuckled lightly, "And what makes you so sure that's not the plan?  It get's mighty lonely in these parts." he winked at them and began shoveling the bacon out of the pan and onto a plate.

"Pull up a chair, breakfast will be served shortly."

"You know Professor, that's a mighty tempting offer, but I ain't ready to settle down yet." Rhaef said as he walked to the table and pulled out a chair for Charlie before sitting down himself.

"Not a matter'f settlin', Rhaef.  'S a matter'f gettin' t'be here, y'know, day in'n day out fer all that."  Charlie sat in the chair Rhaef pulled out for her.  She didn't think twice about the geustire, but mostly as the smell of fresh breakfast was setting her on the edge of the seat already.  "'Sides, without a ship'n such, we're pretty much useless, y'know?"

Wei-Li lay out on the veranda watching the world come to life.  She loved sunrises back home-- it always helped her center.  Here the view was different and the hues of the sky were brighter but after a night of watching the stars and thinking-- it was a welcomed change.

So many disorganized thoughts had passed through her mind, keeping her from sleeping.  She knew she'd have to organize them-- but she had to find out where she stood with others.

She pulled her knees into her chest and clasped her hands around them.   She could hear the others stiring and could smell the bacon cooking.  Soon she would have to go in, to try and figure out what she wanted-- but for now, she sat focusing on nothing but the cool morning air and the wold coming to life.

Walton smiled fondly at the two seated at the table, a slightly knowing smile ... one day he sincerely hoped those two would stop dancing around their feelings and do that settling down bit Rhaef claimed not to be ready for.  He went about setting down plates full of food onto the table, scrambled eggs, bacon, and a stack of pancakes.

Leaning out into the hall he called out, "Wake up call, folks.  Breakfast is served!" and waited for everyone to begin filtering in.

Rhaef took some of the food and ladeled it on to his plate, wasn't his fault the others were late. "I don't know, Charlie, I hope my life ain't only a ship. I want it to be somethin' more someday, y'know."

Ren rolled over, laying on his side, watching Acacia sleep.  Part of him felt bad for glomming the one spare bed-- but there were too of them.

He smiled softly and gently brushed Acacia's cheek.  "Hey, sleepy head... time to get up" he said softly.

"Yeah, sure.  Y'can believe it, 'cause you're somethin' 'for you set out'n the black, y'know.  What was I doin?  Nobody, that's what I was doin'."  Charlie began collecting food for her own plate, smiling at the smells.  "Lemme tell ya, I was twenny-four'n livin' with th'whole Bourdain family.  Six brothers'n sisters 'long with m'folks.  Don'get me wrong, I had m'own room n'all, but...y'think I'd be headin' back t'that?  Nah...tol'ja, where I not on Destiny, which'd be a cold day'n hell, y'd find me on some other fixin' what needed t'be fixed.  No way I'm goin' back t'Whitefall, bein' a part'f that 'gain..."

Rhaef smiled back at Charlie, knowing that her grammar probably drove the Professor mad. "Y'know, Charlie, there be plenty of places to settle down that ain't Whitefall, and plently of folk to do it with that ain't kin." Rhaef said, his cheeks coloring slightly, realizing what he'd said.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:54, Sun 21 May 2006.

Walton cringed visibly at Charlie's grammar ... or lack there of.  But honestly not even knowing where to begin correcting that last speech of hers he let it slide.  "Family is a very valuable thing, not to be underestimated.  However, Rhaef is right." he gave an innocent smile and shoveled a forkfull of egg into his mouth.

Geoff hadn't slept much the previous night, but that suited him fine. He was never much for sleep that wasn't induced by liqour. He had dozed a few hours at the kitchen table after making sure Lei was comfortable as she could be where she had fallen asleep, her nose still in a book even as she succumbed to the call of sleep. He had smiled fondly at that, thinking that Lei was definitely a friend...a sister to be proud of.

After sleeping his few hours, he had risen well before dawn and had left the house to enjoy the outside as much as he could before he was back on the ship. Destiny may be home, but he would never get comfortable with being so enclosed for so long. He had reentered the house through a back door and made his way towards the smell of cooking bacon.

He paused before reaching the kitchen, however, as he felt a tug at his hand and looked down to see Lei. He smiled to her and gave her the usual tousle of her hair as he greeted her. "Mornin', Little Lady! Ya get yerself a good night's sleep after all o' yer readn'?", he said with a grin,"I wouldn't be surprised if ya had stayed up all night readin' the way ya were goin'. I'm gonna hafta see if the professor will give up a couple o' book so we can get ya a little library started on Destiny."

He nodded to himself at that and then looked toward the kitchen at the sound of the professor calling out for people to wake up and have breakfast. "But I guess we can ask him 'bout that while we get some breakfast. Ya hungry, Little Lady?"

Lei offered him a small smile, "I had a nightmare, but I'm okay now. What is that smell...?"

She nodded at his question that she was hungry and easily headed toward the kitchen with him.

Soon the entire crew was gathered around the kitchen table, shoveling platesful of steaming eggs, bacon, and pancakes onto plates and into stomachs ... it was a far cry from anything they ate back on Destiny - especially anything Kale attempted to cook.  With full stomach's it appeared to be time to start getting down to business however as Rhaef prompted Kale to disclose the new caper.

Kale took another bite of his bacon and leaned forward in his seat between Ren and Walton.  "We'll be settin' sail fer Athens.  Museum break-in." he said, "'Pears Walton's got somethin' that done been taken from him.  A stamp.  Worth a fortune, we'll just be droppin' by to take back what ain't rightfully there's an' bring it on back here."  He looked around at his crew then, and taking a deep breath continued.

"The money's goin' to the people of Regina.  Seems Alliance ain't been making their supply runs 'o Pasculin-D.  Ya'll familiar with the Bowden's problem, they don't get that medicine they ain't long for this world.  Walton's got the notion to use the money to acquire large quantities, let these folks live in peace an' health for a spell.  Quite a long spell given the worth of the scrap 'o paper we'll be gettin'." before anyone could interject, namely Rhaef, he went on, "Yes, this is a charity run, so I won't be askin' ya'll to go if'n you don't want to.  Them's that feel like it can stay right here at the Professor's, but Destiny's going."

Rhaef shook his head, and looked at the Captain, "Athens, museum run, sounds pretty risky, are you sure its worth it Captain?" Rhaef had to say it, he felt horrible for doing so, but this was a charity run, and potentially a very dangerous and complicated one, and he needed to make sure Kale's head was in the right place.

"I ain't sayin' it won't be risky." Kale said looking to Rhaef, turning to him almost instinctually, knowing before the man spoke that he'd be the first to talk, "Whethter it's worth it or not ... I s'pose I have ta turn that question back at you all. These folks are dyin'.  An' you know the good 'ol Alliance - always known fer takin' care of them that needs it." he voice dripped of sarcasm, "Here we got us an oppotunity to steal what ain't even there's from right under their nose.  It's good works.  Might not be the most fruitful fer us ... but sometimes that's what you gotta do ..." Kale's voice trailed off.

He was back on Hera.  Stay out of Serenity and keep the lives of all his men - but leave all them that were already down there fighting, fighting the good fight, to die.  To be crushed under the heel of the Alliance.  He'd made the wrong choice back then by obeying orders to hold back and it had cost them the war ... he wasn't ever going to make that mistake again - not ever.  Sometimes you had to risk yourself for others, it was just the way of things.

Rhaef bit his tongue hard to keep from speaking, this was Kale's decision, and he would not question it here. Anyway, Kale had that look in his eye, like he was still paying on some cosmic debt and this was part of it, when he got that, there was not changing his mind.

"C'mon, Cap'n...you're actin' like you gotta ask.  Not much'f a choice, if'n we can help."  Charlie crossed her arms on the table, giving him a bit of a smile.  She grew up on a planet that was a bit more backwater, and knew how hard it could be to get things such as vaccines and supplies...even moreso when relying on the Alliance.  "Ah'm not sure what I can do t'be giving' all sorts'f help, but y'know that I'll b'there.  Y'just gotta tell me what I can be doin' n'all."

Wei-Li listened and smiled.  "Would this be the Athens Museum of Antiquity or the Athens Gallery d'arte?" she asked.

"Or one of the smaller Museums?"

She paused the tilted her head while looking at Kale.  "And how much information do you have on the museum's security..."

Acacia, being a doctor, knew more about Bowden's then anyone here.  "Cap, if this job can really help these people then of course I'm on board." she said.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:02, Tue 30 May 2006.

Kale smiled at the rest of his crews response, nodding his head.  Then he turned to Wei-Li with a grin, "It's the D'arte." he said, not knowing why he was surprised that the woman knew of it.  After all she'd proved numerous times to have more then a few tricks up her sleeve.  "An' we got everything, includin' a contact on Athens, should be able to set us up with a nice clean job of robbin' the place."

Rhaef looked up, "Kale, when you ever known a robbery to be clean? I been doing this for too long to believe such a thing."

Rhaef sighed, and realized the crew was going to follow Kale to hell and back, and he couldn't really blame him. "So, if we're going to do this, Kale, how we going in? Thoughts on cover? Thoughts on how we're getting out? I'm gonna need some time on the 'Tex to get a feel for the planet's security patrols and ties to the Alliance. How long we got?"

Wei-Li nodded.  "When its time, would you mind me looking over the plans?" she asked a little selfconciously.

She shrugged sheepishly, knowing full well, that the crew had figured out a lot about her.

"I got some notions of my own but we'll be layin' down full plans once we hit Athens and meet up with Walton's pal there.  Man by Connor Sullivan, he's got the layouts, access codes, and all security systems mapped out fer us." Kale said, "Once we got a chance ta look them over we'll move from there."

Geoff had sat quietly as the captain laid out the job that was before them and the others began to discuss it. He, himself, had nothing to add at this point. As he often said to himself and others, he was muscle and not brains. The planning and such wasn't his department at all. No, he was the one who came in after said plans fell apart and the shooting started. So he wasn't looking to ask any questions or add anything to the planning right now or when they got to Athens.

  "Captain, I have no doubt that the professor's man is the top of his trade, but I really do think you should Wei take a look at those plans as soon as possible. She's got a kanck for catching flaws and potential problems in plans." Rhaef said, his voice even, despite the fact that he had not fully accepted the plan in his mind.

"That she does, an' I never said I wouldn't be lettin' her look them over, Rhaef," Kale said, "Just don't got the plans all set out yet, that's all."  He looked back up at the rest of the crew, "Athen's is just one hop over so shouldn't take us more then a few hours ta get there, right Ren?  We'll be leavin' here within the hour."

Ren smiled and nodded. "Not long at all, sir." he agreed giving Acacia's hand a gentle squeaze.

"Probably less if we let Lei plot the course," He added with a wink

Acacia returned Ren's squeeze, smiling at him, still marveling at how wonderful it felt to be able to sit here, holding hands around the table with everyone.  As Kale finished his speech Acacia leaned her head on Ren's shoulder, "Want some company while you're plotting course, Ace?  I hear it gets mighty lonely sitting alone in cockpits." she grinned up at him.

Ren's smile broadened and his eyes sparkled as he accepted her offer. "I'd love the company," he told her, then winked mischievously.

"Although... I think prepping might take a little longer if you're there..." he teased.

Acacia gave a Ren a mock of look of surprise, "Are you implying, mister, that I'm a distraction?" she said, but was unable to keep the smile from her lips.

Ren wrapped his arms around her, unable to contain his joy and love for her.  "That," he said kissing her.  "Is what"  another kiss.  "I'm saying,"

He sighed, taking in just how much that smile meant, that smile, and the fact that it was hers.

"But I assure you, I could take that distraction for the rest of my life."

Acacia playfully tried to bat away his first few kisses trying to be mad at him for calling her a distraction but soon was just enjoying them.  As he sighed and looked at her, her smile widened and she knew she had never been so happy in her life.

"You better believe it, Ace." then the two of them made way for the ship.  "Thank you for the meals and the hospitality." Acacia said to Walton as they passed by him, "It was great meeting you."

[To Destiny: Bridge]

"And you too, my dear." he said smiling at Acacia and Ren.  Happy to see the two of them so obviously in love.  It was wonderful to know that despite all odds two people could still come together and make a life for one another.

Ren smiled and shrugged.  "Good to see you sir," he said as he followed Acacia out.

"See you after the job."

---->To Destiny Bridge

As the meeting broke up, Wei-Li took the opportunity to slip into the kitchen and get to work on the morning's dishes.

Her mother had always taught her that a good guest was one who wasn't afraid to pitch in and help, and so she did.

Kale watched as everyone began to disperse from the table, glad to know that his crew stood behind his decision and hoping desperately that he had made the right one in helping Walton out.

"You worry too much." Walton said lowly to Kale as he passed by on his way to the kitchen, "You'll get wrinkles early." he smiled and moved his fingers to the edges of his lips indicating for Kale to smile as well.  Then winked and headed off into the kitchen after Wei-Li.

"Ah, my dear, don't worry about the dishes.  You are a guest, go rest, relax.  Let the old man do the housecleaning."

Wei-Li smiled.  "My mom would throttle me if I didn't at least help," she answered as she rinced a glass and put it in the dish rack.

"Two sets of hands make the work go faster?" she offered.

Rhaef stood up from the table after finishing a second helping of breakfast, he looked at Charlie, "Hey I'm heading out back for a bit, let me know when you head back up to the ship, and I'll help you carry the books the Professor gave you." With that Rhaef walked outside, lit a cigarette, and tried to sort his thoughts about Kale's new plan.

"Yeah, ah'm...let'cha know."  Charlie said as Rhaef spoke to her, having drifted off into her own thoughts for a second.  She shook her head, looking around, seeing people beginning to clear out.  Following suit, Charlie stood up from her chair and started stacking plates, putting them in the kitchen.  She would allow Wei-Li and Walton to wash them, as three people would just be a crowd.  She didn't want to head back to the ship right away, but the reality is that there was enough stuff that had to be done in the engine room before they took off.

"Hey Cap'n?"  Charlie spoke from the other room as she lifted the large bag of books, pulling thme over one shoulder.  "Ah'm gonna go start pre-flight, kay?  You need me, you just tell Ren'r Acacia t'give me a holler n'all."  She smiled as she gave him a bit of a wave, heading out the door with the sack over her shoulder.  She gave Rhaef a smile as well when she walked outside, stepping off the porch.

"You, don'cha be worryin'.  I can get this back, an' you prolly got some sort'f first mate stuff ya'd be doin', right?"

Rhaef shrugged, "Yeah, probably, but its on the ship, so I'll walk with ya, unles you want to go up there alone."

"Don'cha be playing it like y'got nothin' t'do."  Charlie smiled a bit, re-adjusting the way that they hung over her shoulder.  "I've no need t'be alone'r anythin', I'm guessin'.  I mean, once I'm gettin' in the ship, gotta start doin' the pre-flight n'all, right?  Y'know, Cap'n said we're leavin' in an hour, an' I'm never one t'be all 'Hey Cap'n, we're not ready' an' such..."

"Fair enough, Char, I need to be checking the supplies, the 'tex and the armory for this job, so once we get back, I'm bettin' to be busy as well." Rhaef replied as he held the door open for her, "so it looks like we'll both be busy. Shall we be going?"

Walton smiled gratefully at the young woman, his characteristic twinkle in his eye.  He liked this new recruit of Kale's.  "Fair enough, fair enough." he said, and began washing the plates and handing them to Wei-Li to dry.  "You've picked a good crew to join." he commented.

Kale made his way through the house, smiling at Lei and Geoff as he did so and stepped out onto the front porch as Charlie and Rhaef made their way across the expanse of withered grasses and rocks towards Destiny.  He watched them for a moment and then pulled out his radio, "Ren, you're gonna want to be calling our esteemed companion home.  Hopefully you won't be interrupting her strenuous work."

Wei-Li smiled.  "I'm beginning to see that, she answered as she dried a cup.  She wanted to ask him more.  She liked kale and the others but... but they weren't the clan Latrans.

"How long have you known them?" she asked.

"Ah, Kale and I go quite a ways back.  I knew him before he got Destiny, you know.  I've known the crew as long as they've been flying.  Going on around two years now." Walton said.

"Char?  Yea, fair enough."  Charlie smirked, nodding to Rhaef for opening the door as she headed out, her feet crunching on the hard ground.  "So y'seem not too happy w'tha idea that we're gonna be helpin' people.  Ah'm sure it's not 'cause you're th'type t'be thinkin' of y'self only, but certainly, y'know...couldn't hurt t'be helpin' people, right?  I know you're not from, y'know...you're more growin' up on Core worlds, havin' no time w'the border livin'.  Haven'cha ever seen what Bowden's does t' people?"

Rhaef followed Charlie out, "Nah Charlie, I know what it does. And I know that the Alliance ain't much for carin' 'bout the rim, I'm just worried that Kale's gettin' played by the Professor, at least a little." Rhaef paused, "Don't get me wrong, Char, I'm all for helpin' people, just worreid about a run like this, seems like we're takin' an awful lot of risks, is all."

"C'mon, you'n I both know that Walton wouldn' be throwin' somethin' like that to us.  I know that, don'cha know, we'd best be just gettin' on'n doin' what we think's right.  No one's gonna betray any'f th'trust, y'know?"  Charlie smiled again, continually walking alongside, adjusting how the bag sat on her shoulder.  "An' I'm not speakin' out of just th'followin' that I'd do for th'Cap'n, nor'm I just doing what'm told t'do.  Ah'm serious when I say that, y'know...bein' from a smaller planet'n seein' what happens when thing aren't gettin' treated right'n proper?  It's always worth, y'know, givin' it what'cha got..."

"I know, Charlie, I really want to believe that, and yet, there's something in the back of my mind that keeps saying what happens if someone gets hurt on these mercy missions or the ship gets to beat up. Ain't like we can exactly be paying for a lot fixin' right now." Rhaef replied frustrated that these thoughts were coming, "I mean, Charlie. I want to be gorram hero. I want to ride with Kale and you and the others and save the day. And yet, my mind keep seeing all things that could go wrong...." he paused and looked her in the eye, "Is something wrong with me, Char?"

Wei-Li nodded.  "I've been with them..." she paused thinking.  "About a month."

"I hired them to help me do some spacewalks... and thinks kinda happened..." she sighed.

"Life has a funny way of doing that... " she added.

Walton smiled at the girl, "Yes indeed." he said, "Yes indeed."  He finished washing the last cup and handed it to Wei-Li just as he noticed Kale step back inside the house.

"Well, it looks like we're all set ta go." Kale said, stepping into the kitchen, "I'm gonna have ta steal yer dish washin' partner from ya, thinkin' I'll be needin' her if'n we're gonna get this job squared away." he turned to Wei-Li, "Go on an' head back ta the ship and grab Geoff an' Lei while yer at it."

Kale waited for Wei-Li to leave before turning to Walton, "I'll be in touch." he said to the man.  He looked as though he might say more but then turned to go.

"Kale." Walton called out before Kale had left the room.  Kale turned back around and Walton smiled, "It was good to see you again, son.  You should try not to be such a stranger."

"You too." Kale said with a smile, and then made his way out of the professor's house following after the rest of his crew.

[To Destiny: Cargo Bay]

Charlie smiled as she looked back into Rhaef's eyes, smiling and setting a hand on his shoulder.  "Nothing's wrong w'cha, Rhaef.  Y'know...look here.  We're all a bunch'f smugglers, thicker'n thieves w'some of what's out'n th'black, y'know?  If'n we're not dyin' here, we're gonna die 'cause we got shot runnin' from the law, or we're gonna die in jail'r sum'thin, or we'll die 'cause th'ship blows up.  This's a life that all'f us chose.  It's not gonna end pretty, y'know?  But we're all out here, runnin' the black day'n day 'gain."  She chuckled a bit, turning and starting again towards the ship.

"Way I see it, don't much matter.  S'not about how y'die, but more 'bout how ya live.  One'f the books Walton gave me told m'that.  And if I die, but it saves th'whole gorram city from gettin' Bowden's, y'd better believe that I'd accept that kinda death.  More honour'n dyin' here than dyin' when we're stealin' for ourselves, y'know?"

Wei-Li smiled and nodded at Kale's comment, then turned to the Professor.  She handed him her towel and shrugged.  "Guess I gotta go," she said with a sigh.

"It was nice meeting you," she added.  "And we'll see you when we're done on Athens I guess..."

Rhaef nods, "Guess, I ain't never thought of that way, Char," Rhaed says with a nod, "Thanks for helpin' me sort that out." Rhaef said with a genuine smile. "We best hurryin' back to Destiny though, Kale'll have our heads, if he sees us out here jawin' instead of gettin' the bird ready to fly."

"Yeah, yeah, we're goin'."  She smirked, giving him a light punch on the arm as they walked, humming a bit to herself as they walked.  The ship wasn't far, and they finally reached the open hatch in back.  Charlie smiled a bit as she looked up at Destiny, touching the ship with a hand.  "Here's my stop.  You..."  She poked him in the chest, narrowing her eyes a bit playfully.  "...just keep yer head'n your shoulders t'gether.  Things'll go finer'n any'f us coulda seen.  An'if they don't, y'know...y'all are capable.  Don't be throwin' any more worry towards it, kay?"

With those last words, Charlie went into the ship, climbing the stairs so that she could begin the pre-flight check and engine warm-up...

Rhaef nodded and smiled at Charlie, "You're right, Char. Thanks for listening and clearing stuff up for me." Rhaef replied watching her disappear into the ship. Rhaef began walking around the hull, making sure there was not any major damage, before starting his board-ship pre-flight routine. Despite his conversation with Charlie, something was not sitting exactly right with him, and Rhaef hoped some time alone would help him sort things out.

Her farewell to the professor made, Wei-li went looking for Lei and Geoff.  She found them in one of the many rooms filled with books, Lei trying to explain something she'd red to Geoff.

"Hey guys... Hate to interupt, but Kale says we gotta go..."

Lei nodded at Wei-Li and then looked at the pile of books she had chosen to take with her. Geoff carried some, but there were still some that she couldn't possibly hold, she looked at Wei-Li, "I don't have the strength capacity. Please assist."

Then she and Geoff made their way on the ship with piles of books in hand. Lei thanked the Professor generously.

The remainder of the crew all said their final farewells and made way for Destiny.  They had a job to do ...

[All crew to Destiny]