Logged - Tuesday, October 17, 2000
Logged by Djet-Umi and Shannon
Titled - Test of Honor
Public Hangar Bay -- CEC Space Station
You find yourself located in the very large and equally clean
Hangar Bay of the CEC Space Station. Around the entire deck there are
ships of various shapes and sizes, many of them placed on display to
show the products of this station. The walls, floors, and ceiling are
made up of black durasteel that contrasts nicely with the ships on
display.
Nearly the entire fore wall is made up of a force field meant
to keep the vacuum of space out and the atmosphere of the station in,
still allowing ships to go in and out without disturbing this balance.
To the aft there is a large escalator leading up to the Main Corridor.
If not for the movement of a couple of guards to the port, near a small
blast door, the chances of noticing this door would be slim due to the
placement of the ships near the door. To the starboard there is a small
door that leads into the airlock corridor and a small ways off from the
airlock is sectioned off lobby area. The lobby area is behind a wall of
clear plexi-glass so that customers may sit and relax as they watch
their ships being worked on. Inside of the lobby area are two
comfortable looking sofa's with a holoterminal nearby should they
need to make a call.
Mr. Brians' Description:
------------------------
A larger man, broad in the shoulders depicting that he's certainly
quite muscular and that his girth doesn't give much leeway to any fat
cells being around. With Brown hair and blue eyes, his demeanor is one
of a man doing his job, and that job is depicted by his uniform. A
well-made security guard uniform adorns his muscular body, the sleeves
coming tight about his biceps each time he moves his arms, and its
obvious that he has a protective vest on around his torso. Around his
waist and sitting upon his hip, a blaster is strapped against his leg.
He is indeed well outfitted and well-armed.
------------------------
The public shuttle lands on the station's tarmac, the wide maw of its
egress ramp opening several minutes after touchdown to reveal the legs
of two Shistavanen already walking toward the bottom. Each is scantily
clad, but that's not atypical of their race. Each wears a wicked
looking vibroblade strapped in a diagonal sheathe across the back, but
that's not necessarily enough to imply that they're here to cause
trouble. On the right is a male, covered in pitch black and chocolate
fur, cut short so that it lays sleek against his well-defined
musculature. On the left is a female. Her pelt is slightly longer,
though still not quite as shaggy as most of their species; the fur
color is absolutely gorgeous! A beautiful mixture of gold and red.
Reaching the bottom of the ramp, the two step onto the floor and
look in several directions for a certain contact.
Djet-Umi's Description:
-----------------------
Djet-Umi Ohla is a tall, handsome, but very unusual example
of the Shistavanen race. Six feet and a few inches tall, his body is
covered mostly in a thin layer of sleek, immaculately groomed, black
fur. While most members of his species are relatively shaggy, this
one's entire pelt has been shorn to lay tightly against his skin, the
ebony color interrupted only by brown points on his muzzle, shoulders,
forearms, legs and thighs. Two more spots are placed just above and
between his deep, brown eyes, and unnaturally sharp ears stand erect
upon his head.
From there at the top down to the neatly trimmed claws on
each toe, the sentient looks as if he might have stepped from the
cover of a health and fitness magazine. His shoulders and arms are
rounded in firm deltoids, biceps and triceps, and his pectoral and
abdominal muscles are the kind that every male dreams of having. His
back, while still narrow like the rest of his frame, is the classic
inverted triangle of trapezius, pointing downward to a pair of strong
legs.
He only bothers with enough clothing to keep him covered for
the sake of decency. A pair of simple, narrow belts of brown leather
adorn his right thigh, one closer to the knee, and the other about
eight inches above it. Together, they have a pair of black and silver
clasps that are used as a magnetic holster for whichever weapon he
sees fit to carry there.
He keeps his silent gaze alertly on the things happening around
him, all the time seeming relaxed as his ears do little to reflect his
private thoughts. He projects an enigmatic aura that is somehow both
calm and tense at the same time.
The landing of the shuttle doesn't go unnoticed by a pair of nearby
security guards. As is their duty, the begin to approach the shuttle
just as the ramp bumps down upon the flooring. The smaller of the two
nudges the larger, Mr. Brians, and gestures with his eyes towards the
obvious signs of weapons upon the two visitors. Mr. Brian nods his
acknowledgement to the smaller and proceeds to approach the visiting
guests. With a friendly smile upon his face, Mr. Brian greets, "Welcome
to CEC. As a part of security protocol I am required to ask your names
and your purpose for being here?"
All around inside the hangerbay, there is constant activity as a number
of technicians are working hard to keep the place clean and running
smoothly. Several droids stroll by on their appointed tasks, seeing to
it that the spacestation is well maintained.
Obviously the reputation of the two bounty hunters has not preceded them.
Djet-Umi, the male, takes not of the fact with personal satisfaction as
he turns his deep, brown eyes toward the larger of the two humans. "We're
here to conduct business with Mrs. Arands," the male states quietly. His
voice is easily heard, though it has a soft quality to it that is somewhat
unsettling. He turns his gaze onto the smaller man, "I am Elyts Nab, and
this is my wife Emolav."
Ta'Keshi's initial reaction is to quickly smother a laugh at being referred
to as a wife, and the second reaction is only seconds on the heels of the
first... outrage. She knows perfectly well that Djet-Umi would rather
spend time with and marry a pair of shoes than herself. Still, the control
she possesses is remarkable as neither of these emotions makes it to the
surface to be displayed on her features. Instead, the reddish-gold female
smiles pleasantly and offers a half bow to the two officers.
Mr. Brians bows his head respectively to the female first, then to the male,
"Very well Mr. and Mrs. Nab. Before I announce you are here, I'm afraid I'm
required to ask that you remove your weapons. My associate here" gesturing
to the smaller man, "will make sure they are secured and will give them
back to you upon your departure. It is for the safety sake of all those
around us if you would respectively comply." He doesn't miss the
harshness in Elyts's voice, nor the flash in Emolav's eyes, knowing
that each and every species has its own kind of etiquette. He keeps his
demeanor friendly and unthreatening, seeming like a man who is simply
doing his job.
"Our religion does not allow us to part with our arms," the male replies
evenly as he looks back to Brians. "I am certain that you understand, Sir."
And you only thought you knew something about Shistavenen society. "I give
you my honor that they will not be drawn unless they are needed, and.." He
glances at the placid surroundings before looking down again, "This does
not seem like a place that would require such things."
Ta'Keshi flattens her ears and pitches her voice appropriately as she nods,
appearing distressed, "It would be most improper for us to remove our
ancestral sacred arms." Her gaze shifts quietly from one guard to the other
before she looks over at her companion, nodding softly in agreement with
his words.
Mr. Brians glances down and nods knowingly, honor is a big issue with
several races, and Mr. Brians is a veteran in dealing a number of them. His
eyes return to gaze into those of the male, and tries as diplomatically as
possible "I fully understand that you are honor-bound Mr. and Mrs. Nab,"
he inclines his head to the female, then returns his attention to the
male, "however, there is also a certain nobleness in honoring your host as
well. If I or any of CEC's employees intend to be your host, then I would
ask that you do honor us with honoring the policies of safety we have set
in place. It is no intentional insult to you or your ancestors that we make
this request. It is made to any and all who step foot upon this station. As
I have stated before, my associate will make absolutely certain that your
weapons are secured."
Djet-Umi watches Brians silently. The potential sale of a star-faring
vessel is extremely important to the success of a business like CEC, and
the Shistavanen is very aware of the fact. A single lost sale, even for a
company as successful as this one, is not looked on favorably by upper
management when there's the question that it was caused by mistreatment
of a customer. Djet-Umi looks truly chagrinned, as if victimized. "Sir,"
he begins, "you do not understand. It is not simply a matter of honor.
Our eternal state depends upon our treatment of these items; to turn them
over to the care of another, no matter how they promise to care for them,
is simply unacceptable." He turns and looks at his 'wife', attempting to
catch her eye.. the communication could easily be observed as a silent
motion that they may have to look elsewhere to make their purchase.
Ta'Keshi does make eye contact with her 'mate' and makes a quiet face that
indicates her dismay and silent agreement. She half turns back toward the
shuttle entrance, laying a hand against its side.
Again Mr. Brians bows in acquiescence to the male, then returns his gaze
back to the male "As is with a number of races I have encountered. I give
you my word of honor that these items will be well cared for and will
return to you in the condition that they were handed over. If my word is
not sufficient to fulfill your honor, then may I suggest you conduct your
business through a holoterminal. It may be the easiest way to conduct
business at hand, if you _must_ retain your weapons." Mr. Brians is always
one to offer solutions to a difficult situation, and a number of species
seem to have found the security guard respectful to their beliefs.
Djet-Umi reaches down and lays his hand gently on that of Ta'Keshi against
his side. Looking at the human across from him, the Shistavanen offers a
possibility of his own. "Perhaps there is another solution. If you and
your fellow are to watch over our weapons yourselves, then could you not
do so by accompanying the two of us into Mrs. Arands' office and staying
there while we work out some type of transaction? Certainly you understand
that holoterminals are no real way to do a thing such as this -- one cannot
even try out a model of the ship he desires to have built."
Ta'Keshi's reluctant turn toward the shuttle is halted by Djet-Umi's touch
and she pauses, turning her head to look over at him as he offers his
suggestion. One of her ears shifts to the side in a thoughtful pose as she
considers the idea and then a hopeful smile touches her muzzle as she glances
toward the guards to see what their reaction is.
Mr. Brians takes in a deep breath, a sticky situation, and a rebuttal of
a solution is not unexpected. He exhales slowly and again keeps his calm
friendly demeanor, "I'm afraid that I am unable to accept that alternative
either. Mrs. Arands has strict policies about no weapons being allowed in
her office. It is for her safety that these policies are in place. As I'm
sure you can understand, we cannot risk a situation getting out of hand
where the customer or Mrs. Arands is harmed in any way. CEC has the
reputation of being the most honest and respectable Ship dealer in the
galaxy. And it is for those reasons why we hold to the policies at hand,
to protect that reputation and honor. I'm certain that Mrs. Arands can
compensate any inconveniences that may or may not result. Again, I give
you my word of honor that your weapons will not be harmed, and if desired,
not touched by our hands."
Djet-Umi sighs and looks defeated. If his race still had tails, his would
most assuredly be hanging. He turns his eyes to Ta'Keshi and murmurs to her
in a sad-sounding string of Shistavanen, and says, "Well, my dear. What do
you suggest?", in Shistavanen.
Ta'Keshi apparently has another problem that begs solving, and soon. The
female Shistavanen begins swaying back and forth slightly, shifting her
weight in a quietly anxious fashion. She replies to Djet-Umi in Basic, so
distracted that she doesn't think to change languages, "I do not know what
else we can do about this problem. We obviously cannot damn our eternal
souls by losing contact with our sacred blades, but..." She bites her lower
lip and looks very uncomfortable, "I -really- need to find a restroom, and
the shuttle does not have one."
Mr. Brians glances at the female and smiles, he takes a step back and
gestures to a pair of rooms beside the lobby area, "Of course, we do have
accommodations for our visiting guests. If it pleases you my associate
will escort you to the necessary facilities." The shorter of the two guards
looks to Mr. Brians and then to the female and smiles, his reply, a bit
squeaky to be sure, "Of course, I would be happy to. Right this way Mrs. Nab"
he states gesturing towards the lobby area. Mr. Brians inclines his head
to the female with respect, then returns his attention back to the male,
"I am apologize that we are at an impasse. I had hoped to satisfy both
your honor and ours here. Mrs. Arands will, undoubtedly, offer you a
considerable discount on any ship you may inquire about due to our impasse
difficulties. It is my hope that you would bestow your trust in me, that
my word is my life and would treat your sacred weapons with the utmost
respect and care."
Djet-Umi sighs softly and holds up his hands, "It seems that we have no
choice, then." He shakes his head and reaches for a buckle that holds his
blade's sheath to his back. "Ancestors, forgive us," he murmurs in a quiet
sort of prayer, slowly removing the weaponry, "But we are at a loss, and
there seems to be no other way." He looks pained to remove the weapon.
Ta'Keshi glances at her companion and nods, her expression pained by the
compromise, but then her attention shifts back to her more urgent problem.
She'll take care of all other matters -after- she's had a chance to relieve
herself. The female Shistavanen promptly makes a beeline for the indicated
facilities; her pace most definitely hurried.
The smaller of the guards makes and effort to catch up to the female as she
heads towards the guest facilities with all haste, to the extent he has to
jog to keep pace.
Mr. Brians on the other hand waves for a technician to come over. As the
technician approaches, Mr. Brian's requests, "Please bring a storage box
and some of that silk cloth you have in the storage room with you. Mr. and
Mrs. Nab has need for it." The technician glances at the strange male, then
nods respectfully to Mr. Brians and hurries off to do as he's told. Mr. Brians
returns his attention to the male; "I apologize to your ancestors and to you
for this inconvenience, and I thank you for respecting my honor." With
profound earnest, he brings his hand to his chest and bows to the male,
giving him the respect and honor the male has entrusted into him.
The human male's apologies would truly mean little to someone forced to
compromise their entire system of beliefs, and Djet merely nods with
resignation as he awaits the arrival of the storage box. "Is Mrs. Arands
even here?" he asks quietly.
Mr. Brians nods to the male, "Aye that she is, and as soon as the
weapons are secured, I will notify her of your presence here, which
she undoubtedly is already aware that she has guests" he states as
he points to a series of camera's about the hangerbay.
The technician soon returns with a metal storage container and a bolt
of the silk he was tasked to bring. Holding them within both arms, he
asks Mr. Brians, "Where would you like them Mr. Brians?" Mr. Brians
gestures to the base of the males feet, "Place it before Mr. Nab so
that he may place his weapons inside so that no other may touch them"
he says hoping that it will appeal to the males honor.
The shorter security guard stands off to the side of the guest facilities
and professionally awaits for the female to emerge.
Djet-Umi wrinkles his brow, his head finally shaking. "The silk won't
be necessary," he states. Still seeming chagrinned by the fact that he's
being forced to ignore his values, he waits for the box to be opened
before silently lowering his weapon into it. The ornate handle glitters,
sparkling as it reflects the artificial, showroom lights from the various
facets carved into its surface. Djet glances toward the smaller guard,
then looks to Brians silently.
When the female Shistavanen does finally emerge from the facilities, she
looks an absolute mess. Ta'Keshi's entire front side is sopping wet and
she wordlessly stalks back toward Djet and the security guard, rubbing at
her face and chest ruff vigorously with a towel. The tall canid looks far
less than ecstatic as she resumes her place beside her companion and then
comments to the security officer in charge, "I think your sink has a slight
malfunction."
Mr. Brians waves the technician to take the bolt of silk back, then steps
back and watches the male place his weapons inside. He gets slightly
diverted as he sees movement from the corner of his eye. Glancing that
way, he can't help but grin momentarily at the comical image of his
associate trying to keep pace with the female. As the female approaches
and makes her report. He taps his comm unit and states, "Need a repair
droid to the guest facilities on deck two, hangerbay." Then returns his
attention back to the female, "I apologize Mrs. Nab. Is there anything
that I can get you to help in your efforts" he gestures slightly at the
towel.
Djet-Umi takes a breath and a quick step forward in Ta'Keshi's direction.
"Love!" he exclaims, "What happened??" Frowning, he turns and looks at the
security officer as if having parted with his blade might somehow be the
cause of the female Shistavanen's minor misfortune. "Can we not move on
with this?" His tone isn't angry at all, but there is a certain note of
frustration projected into his voice.
The only way that Ta'Keshi could possibly look more annoyed would be if
she were soaked -and- feline. As it is, the female Shistavanen looks
pretty peeved as water droplets continue to gather and then drip from
her ear tips and muzzle in a random rhythm. She eyes the security
officer for a moment and then says stiffly, "No, thank you. Just let
me get myself dried off at least. I shall have to groom myself later,
I suppose." She holds a hand out toward Djet-Umi and replies,
"Apparently their sink saw fit to spray me generously when I went
to tidy up a little bit."
Mr. Brians inclines his head to the female and again reiterates,
"My sincerest apologies Mrs. Nab." He then returns his gaze to the
male and states, "Of course, as soon as Mrs. Nab has stowed her
weapons, I will be honored to escort you to Mrs. Arands office myself."
He smiles his friendly smile and clasps his hands behind his back
awaiting for the female to stow her weapons as well. In the mean
time, a droid is seen heading into the guest facilities to tend to
its duties.
Ta'Keshi heaves a heavy sigh and looks like she's having a really
horrible day today. First she's wetted down to look like a tangled,
dripping mongrel, and now she has to lose contact with the blade she
was wedded to on the day of her birth. Are they going to shave her
fur off next and make her completely naked?! Clearly feeling violated,
her ears slick back as she retrieves her weapon from its sheath,
commenting to Djet-Umi, "I feel so naked." She shoots Brians a stern
glance that borders on irate as she places her precious spirit blade
beside her mate's.
Djet-Umi motions toward the box tiredly, indicating for his companion to
comply. He wonders to himself how CEC can be at all as successful as it
is when customers are put through this kind of difficulty. Then again,
it's more than likely due to the amount of military business the company
almost certainly receives from the government. The male silently slips
his arm around the small of Ta'Keshi's back to calm her and looks at the
human, simply waiting to be escorted inside.
Satisfied that honor has been served, and the policies have been met,
Mr. Brians inclines his head in respect to both of them. "I thank you
for complying, as will Mrs. Arands". He turns to the side slightly and
taps his comm unit again, "Mrs. Arands, there is a Mr. and Mrs. Nab here
to see you about the possibility of purchasing a ship." A female voice is
heard soon after, "Very well, bring them up to my office." Mr. Brians
responds, "Yes ma'am, right away". Turning back to the two, he gestures
to the Main Corridor, "Please, this way. Mrs. Arands is expecting you."
With his hand still at Ta'Keshi's lower back, Djet-Umi begins striding
toward the office. He is the picture of patience, though it's plain on
his face that he feels mistreated as a customer. Walking without speaking,
he approaches the passageway that's indicated. Life carries on about the
cavernous space station, but the Shistavanen certainly did not anticipate
this type of treatment.
(Second Half with travel spam edited out)
Djet-Umi heads into the CEO's Office, as two guards pull the doors open.
Djet-Umi has arrived.
Ta'Keshi heads into the CEO's Office, as two guards pull the doors open.
Ta'Keshi has arrived.
Mr. brians heads into the CEO's Office, as two guards pull the doors open.
Mr. Brians has arrived.
Shannon stands, as the doors are open. She stands behind her desk momentarily
as she glances at the two guests, then at the security officer. She smiles
and inclines her head to him, "Thank you Mr. Brians" then walks out behind
her desk to greet the two. The woman exudes a certain aura of power and
authority as she moves, she turns her attention to the two before her, "I
am Shannon Arands, how can I or CEC be of service to you?"
Djet-Umi enters the office silently, his brown eyes tracking across each
corner of the room, as if in idle curiosity. He moves toward a chair,
certain that it will be indicated to him regardless, but he does not yet
sit down. "Good evening, Mrs. Arands," the Shistavanen's weariness has
left his voice. He looks toward the guard Brians, then turns back to the
woman; "Negotiations over a ship do not require armed guards, do they? My
wife and I obviously have been stripped of our own weapons."
Ta'Keshi moves into the room with Djet-Umi, staying close to his side as he
makes his way toward the chairs. Her normally immaculately groomed fur is
currently damp and tousled, and the female Shistavanen does not look at all
pleased. A towel is clutched tightly in her right hand and she occasionally
rubs uselessly at her face. She says nothing as of yet, simply looking around
the room and then regarding the woman with a mildly sour expression on her
face. No self-respecting Shistavanen should have to go around in public
looking like this.
Shannon smiles at the male and nods, turning to Mr. Brians she states,
"Please wait outside until negotiations have been concluded", then returns
her attention back to the two. She gestures, "Please do have a seat, may I
call for a refreshment to be brought up?" she asks as she makes her way
back to her own seat.
Mr. Brians in the mean time inclines his head to Mrs. Arands, then to the
two guests before backing out and closing the doors.
After taking her seat, Shannon awaits their response to her offer.
Djet-Umi shakes his head, "I don't believe refreshments will be necessary."
Reaching down, the male Shistavanen touches a small control built into one
of the two leg straps on his thigh. It's a motion that's hardly noticeable
at all, more like a nervous scratch than anything else. In reality, however,
he's depressed a miniscule button that begins to emit an inaudible frequency
meant to confuse listening devices. "Your guards are very thorough, Mrs.
Arands," he comments once the three are alone.
Ta'Keshi rakes her fingers through the damp fur between her ears and then
idly tosses the towel she was carrying over the back of one of the chairs.
Her demeanor seems to shift a little bit, though that slightly annoyed
aura about her never seems to fully dissipate. The female Shistavanen
smirks lightly and comments, "Yes... and so are your sinks."
Shannon nods to the males decline to her offer, she smiles in a quite
businesslike manner and comments, "That's what I have hired them for.
They are loyal to me as I am sure you have noticed." Glancing over at the
female making attempts to compose herself she offers a comforting smile
to her, "I am very sorry for the unfortunate incident. I pride myself in
having every system here function properly; it seems that one was overlooked.
Rest assured it will not be from here on out." Sitting straight in her chair,
she happens to glance down at a console recessed into her desk, her brow
curls as a touch of static distorts it momentarily. She glances back up to
the two before her, "Now, what can I do for you both today?"
Djet-Umi leans forward and rests his forearms on the edge of the CEO's desk,
casual yet somewhat grim. His face takes on an aura completely different
from that which he wore upon entering the office. "Mrs. Arands, I'll be
brief with you. My associate and I aren't here to purchase a ship." The
Shistavanen glances over in Ta'Keshi's direction before looking back at
Shannon, "I'm certain you that you are aware of a bounty that's been
placed on your head." It's more of a statement than a question, but in
spite of his words, Djet-Umi's manner is far from threatening.
Ta'Keshi stretches briefly and then idly shifts her weight from one
digit-grade foot to the other. At Shannon's comment concerning the leaky
facilities, she nods once in acknowledgment and then offers a half grin,
"I suppose it could have been worse. I am sure that with your reputation
and respected establishment, such things do not occur often." As Djet-Umi
leans onto the woman's desk and begins speaking, she catches his glance
in her direction and then shifts her gaze back to Shannon. Crossing her
arms across her chest casually, she merely nods as though verifying his
statements.
Shannon studies the two before her, regarding them each one in turn. She
could be vulnerable, but its certain that if any threat or harm comes to
her, she would know that the two would not make it off the station. Wits
will surely need to be used tonight as the male makes his statement. She
inclines her head, "Yes, I am aware of the bounty placed on my head." She
glances from the male to the female and smiles lightly at her comment,
then looks back to the male again. Her composure hasn't differed at the
news and she asks rather forwardly, "Are you two here in hopes of
collecting that bounty?"
The male Shistavanen watches Shannon's eyes for several moments before he
speaks. "That is a distinct possibility," he finally replies. "As you are
certain to have guessed by now, my associate and I are hunters. However..."
Here, the male's voice lingers on a thought, "Your particular situation
presents us with somewhat of a better opportunity than most." He flicks
one ear as he watches the woman's eyes.
Oddly enough, despite the fact that the female is the more outgoing of the
pair, Ta'Keshi seems content to let Djet-Umi do the majority of the talking
this time. She wanders about the room slowly, sharp chocolate brown eyes
taking everything in. The candid circles around a few of the ship displays,
from all appearances inspecting a few of the models quite closely. At
Djet-Umi's last comment, she looks up with a grin and comments, "Indeed..."
Shannon spies the female from the corner of her eye as she moves about the
room while her so called 'mate' talks to her. She doesn't appear intimidated
at this time; her ability to command seems to have given her a bit of a
backbone. She doesn't say anything for the longest time, but merely stares
at the male. Finally she states, "If you sincerely think so, then that is
of your own thought, for I would say that it is you and your friend over
there who is at a severe disadvantage. But, let us be done with the
underlying threats. What if I were to make a proposal to you both that
you would find truly difficult to refuse, and something that would benefit
both our interests?" She watches the male for his reaction, noting that
it is he who appears to be running the show between the two.
Djet-Umi is mildly amused that Shannon thinks him to be threatening her,
but he keeps the emotion a secret, his thoughts now hidden behind a steely,
cool mask of non-expression. Truly, he had not been threatening her. His
thoughts continue in his mind, but he speaks none of them. "What proposal
do you wish to make?" he finally asks.
If Ta'Keshi knew that Shannon thought Djet-Umi was running the show, she
would most likely through a huge, and most probably deadly fit. No one
leads this vicious fighter anywhere; not even the skilled male Shistavanen
that she has seen fit to partner with. Finishing with her precursory
inspection of the various ship models, the big female glides silently
over to the desk that Djet-Umi and Shannon are speaking over. One of her
ears perk forward with interest as she listens to see what offer the prey
might care to make. She knows that there is minimal danger for herself
and her partner in their current position, but she does not mention that
fact to the woman.
Shannon notes that both the Shistavanen have had their curiosities sparked,
she again gestures to the two chairs, "Please, seat yourselves so that we
may speak to one another as civilized people would." She places her hands
into her lap and waits for the two to seat themselves before she goes on
with her proposal. She does expect a certain respect be paid to her.
Djet-Umi is already seated and has been for several minutes. He calmly waits
for Shannon's offer to be made his face still deadpan as he listens patiently.
He aims a glance in Ta'Keshi's direction, uncertain as to whether she'll sit
or prefer to remain standing.
Ta'Keshi is still waiting to hear what Shannon has in mind to offer. She
does enjoy her work most of the time, but she likes to have fun too, and
she generally doesn't mix the two of them. Understandably, she'd rather
have less beating around the bush and more action. The female Shistavanen
absently pops a knuckle in her thumb and then glances back at Shannon,
"No, thank you. I prefer to remain standing at the present time." As
though to reinforce her words, she begins pacing along the side of the
desk.
Shannon glances up at the female, her gaze only shows that her suspicions
were right, so she returns her gaze back to the male, leaving the female
to pace all she likes. "The offer is made to both of you, I had hoped we
would be able to do it civilly" is the only remark she makes. A lift of
her chin she begins, "I am aware of the bounty on my head. Tell me, what
is the offer up to now?" she asks eyeing the male for a moment, then
waves her hand, "Never mind, it is of little importance to me right now.
What I'm proposing is a hiring of your skills and abilities. I too have
a certain person whom I'd like to be brought to me, that my be reluctant
to accept my invitation. I'm sure we can come to some business
agreement...?"
Djet-Umi stares across the desk at the CEO. He is silent for several
moments as he mulls over her words. Though neither member of this Fire
and Ice team of bounty hunters is willing to be tied to only one
employer, a job is a job. Still, this is simply one more job, and
unless the price is good enough, it doesn't cover not taking the woman
in for what's being offered. "I need more information," he finally decides.
Ta'Keshi gets the distinct feeling now that she's being snubbed and turns
to face Shannon, a frown forming on her face. "And what exactly did that
remark mean?" she asks, her tone still civil but with a hint of annoyance
in it. She glances over at Djet-Umi and comments; "I fail to see how
passing up this bounty in favor of another will get us anywhere."
Shannon sits back into her chair, her hands come up to rest upon each arm,
her composure displays one of authority who is in control. She looks to the
male and replies, "I'm sure both you and your companion" purposefully not
looking at the female for the moment until she's done, "are looking for a
way to increase your revenues as well as perhaps broaden your capabilities.
I am prepared to offer you a handsome reward for bringing in this difficult
man. You may already be aware of who he is, for he is the one who placed
that bounty upon my head. It may serve you both to bring him here, and
perhaps collect upon both bounties at the same time?" She then turns to
the female and simply gestures to the seat, "Please, that poor rug gets
enough treatment from me."
Djet-Umi is slowly finding himself caught in a position that he doesn't like.
On one hand is Shannon. Djet isn't fooled at all by her facade of power; she
may be in charge of a massive corporation, but posturing isn't enough to
impress the bounty hunter. Simultaneously, the information is coming in bits
and pieces when he would prefer it to be in one, nice package, and he doesn't
appreciate the tone being taken toward Ta'Keshi. Then, Ta'Keshi presents
another problem -- the male can't stop the negotiation to explain his tactics
to her, nor does he wish to leave her out of those negotiations. Silently
desiring his partner's trust in the matter, he levels his gaze across the
table at Shannon. "Your bounty, then, is Tyler McBride. Name your price,
and my equal and I will determine whether it is sufficient."
Ta'Keshi stops pacing, all right... She walks right up to Shannon's chair
and glares down at her, about ready to display exactly who it is that is in
control of the situation here. Fully aware that this team would be more
than able to make up for one lost bounty, she has no qualms about taking
a personal affront at Shannon's attitude and acting on it. However, she
does not take any action just yet as she casts a very brief sideways glance
toward Djet-Umi before returning to glowering down at the woman. Her
expression says clearly that this offer had better be good... very good.
Shannon's finger rubs along a certain area of the chair, as her finger
passes over it, it appears to be some sort of button she can push at a
moments notice. Glancing at the male, then cocking her head up at the
female glowering down at her, she smiles then returns her attention back
to the male, "That is the man. I do not take kindly to his antics, and
would prefer a civil meeting between he and I. He is however, reluctant.
I am prepared to offer 200,000 credits and a freighter of your choose to
each of you."
That, without any doubt whatsoever, is a highly valuable offer. Neither
bounty hunter can deny that, and giving up the possibility of that amount
of money over a piddling 65,000 credits being offered for the CEO is
insanity. Djet-Umi only has to look at Ta'Keshi for a moment to know
that she would feel the same way. However, there are other concerns.
He lowers his gaze from the dazzlingly beautiful female of his species
and looks at Shannon. "Your offer is... appealing," it's said with a
distinct note of approval. "However, it is effected only by bringing
him in. The choice in my hands, then, is to take you out of here now
for what McBride is offering... or leave here with nothing on the
chance that we -may- be able to bring him back to you. And if we
do not bring him back, then my partner and I are out of the credits
he's promised us for you." The bounty hunter hushes for a moment to
allow his words to sink in. "Here is my proposal. You are the CEO of
a company that builds something my partner and I, are currently in
need of. You've offered a total of 200,000 credits and two freighters.
Supply us with one of those freighters in advance, and the two of us
will see to accepting what you've proposed." He looks to Ta'Keshi to
be certain of her approval.
Ta'Keshi is not all temper, despite her reputation. She listens to
Djet-Umi's idea placidly, her expression not registering any emotion
in particular, just thoughtful contemplation. Crossing her arms
comfortably over her chest she asks, "Is there any reason why she
could not match McBride's bounty on her head now, and then pay us the
rest later? After all, chasing bounties around is not cost-free and
when we leave we'll be effectively letting her go anyway."
Shannon glances at the female and smiles, she nods lightly, finally
the females cunningness shows forth and Shannon is pleased. She
responds to the female first, "A freighter of your choice right now,
is priced at virtually double what McBride is offering. Is that not
enough of a down-payment on this venture?" She then turns to the male
and states, "As I have stated before, by bringing McBride here, it is
quite possible that he will pay his bounty fee to you if you claim
that the bounty is filled by my being in his presence as he requests.
So you see, to accept my offer would benefit all those involved, and
you both would come out winners on both ends."
Djet-Umi looks back and forth between the two. Shannon's estimate is
entirely correct. In fact, the ship the bounty hunter has in mind is
roughly three times what McBride was offering, and that's before
upgrades. It is, however, a freighter class vessel. "A YT-2400," he
finally states in a calm voice. He seems to know his ships well, too,
"With fully upgraded sensors, hull, shields, and hyperdrive." He knows
he's asking for an immense amount, but the chances are that the two
bounty hunters won't -need- a second ship... or not one nearly this
nice, at least. He watches for the woman's reaction, certain that she
won't like what he's requesting.
Ta'Keshi offers a light grin at Shannon as she responds, "It may be
worth more, but if we want cash we would have to sell it. It makes
more sense for us to have a little cash in hand as well as a ship
to travel in." She then falls silent again, listening to Djet-Umi
list the things he wants on the ship deal. Her gaze then shifts
back to Shannon, curious as to what her reaction will be.
Shannon glances from the male to the female, then back to the male
again for he was the one who she began the negotiations with. She
taps her fingers along the edge of the arm of the chair, careful
to avoid the ominous button. She considers the counter offer for a
moment, a brief calculation runs through her mind and finally she
responds, "I trust from what I've seen by you entrusting your
weapons to my security guard that you both are honorable people.
And in being so, I will allow you to barrow a YT-2400 with the
upgrades you specified with a sum of 10,000 credits for travel
expenses. Upon completion of the bounty, I will then sign over
title of the ship into your name, and give you 190,000 credits
at that time. The upgrades to the ship are equivalent to the cost
of another stock freighter. This is my offer, and I pray that if
you accept my offer, then you are honor bound to fulfill my
contract with you both and that any thoughts of you bringing
me in to McBride is mute." She again studies the two intensely,
"This is a very generous offer I am making, I do hope that you
both accept it for all of our sakes."
Djet-Umi listens intently to Shannon as she speaks. The bounty
hunter, in spite of his trade, does indeed have a strong sense
of honor and finds the deal completely acceptable. He looks
across the room to Ta'Keshi, leaving the final word with her.
As Shannon carries on her side of the negotiations, Ta'Keshi
listens attentively and studies the woman's face as she speaks.
Once the offer is made, the female Shistavanen runs the back of
her thumb against her upper lip in contemplation, giving it
active and intelligent consideration. After several moments, she
meets Shannon's gaze directly and then glances sideways to Djet-Umi
with a nod. Looking back at Shannon she comments, "That is a very
fair offer."
Shannon inclines her head to the female, then turns to the male,
"We have a deal then? I can have a ship ready within a week. It
will be here to pick up along with 10,000 credits cash." She
glances to the two bounty hunters and smiles, "I'm glad we came
to a reasonable understanding." She scoots her chair back and
rises from her seat, extending a hand to the female first, "It
is customary for my species to seal a deal with a hand shake
honoring one another."
Djet-Umi stands by and watches the two as they shake on the deal.
"The sooner the ship is ready, the sooner we can leave to get
McBride. I'm certain that you realize that," his voice is smooth.
Ta'Keshi watches as Shannon leaves the relative 'safety' of her
chair and a light grin appears across her muzzle for a brief
moment before fading again. She extends her own hand and gives
the woman's hand a firm, yet careful shake as her large hand
virtually engulfs the Human's much smaller one. "I am familiar
with the practice." she rumbles quietly. An amused glimmer
appears in her chocolate brown eyes as she adds, "Always a
pleasure doing business with a business savvy female." She
steps back and makes space for Djet-Umi to duplicate the
gesture of good faith.
Shannon smiles and accepts the compliment from the female, she
bows her head to the female respectfully, then turns to face
the male, extending her hand out to him, "I am fully aware of
this point. As it is, I will be doubling my crew to have the
ship ready by the end of the week. Be here Friday and I will
deliver the ship personally."
Djet-Umi extends his own hand and does return the gesture,
clasping Shannon's firmly and nodding. "That is acceptable,"
he replies, "My partner and I -will- bring McBride to you, one
way or the other. We'll stop by to fill out the specs before we
leave."
"A satisfactory deal always makes up for any mishap with a
renegade sink, I always say." quips Ta'Keshi as she takes a
few graceful sidesteps before heading toward the door. She
lingers long enough to be certain that Djet-Umi is following
her before she leaves, offering a simple backward wave toward
Shannon. "Stay safe, now." she says, her tone cheerful but the
words faintly cryptic.
Shannon chuckles lightly at the female's comment and inclines
her head to them both as she watches them leave her office,
"Good hunting" she replies. And once the door is closed, only
then does her body begin to quiver. She has never been so
vulnerable before, nor she promises herself, will she ever
be so again.
(End of Log)
