View Full Version : [M] Galactic Engagement (Ushima and AngelDellaNotte)
Ushima
04-17-2017, 05:38 AM
rate M for strong language, drugs/alcohol, violence and sexual situations
He remembered the argument with his mother, now that he was sitting on the ship waiting. Cynthia Coran (http://i.imgur.com/Su1GJ8s.jpg) had walked into the living room to see her son lounging out the couch. He had been home three weeks. Three weeks since he was given his papers and kicked out of the military for punching an officer who couldn't lead his way out of a paper bag. And she was in full agreement with her son. She hated men who were cocky without the skills to back them up. Originally she thought her husband was like that but Jared (http://media.moddb.com/images/games/1/17/16380/SceneHumanFinal.jpg) proved time and again he could back up his talk. She was glad her son took more after her though, in terms of career. An Ace. An expert pilot. Cynthia was sure he would have ended up becoming the youngest to have made Admiral had events played out differently.
But instead he was crashing on the couch for three weeks, refusing to move on. Michael (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/dd/9c/2c/dd9c2cc437f57876cd2c4d78fc89df91.jpg) went out at night, drinking in all manner of bars and clubs. Got into fights. He came home smelling of booze and covered in bruises. It only made her worry. They fought constantly. Cynthia would lay into him from the second he was awake. Michael was no help, always had a comment to say back which would set his mother off about his attitude and what a troublesome child he had been and how his mouth kept causing him problems. Things changed though. Four days ago, after a nasty row with his mother, he received a phone call. General Eiling. (http://pre10.deviantart.net/9ffa/th/pre/f/2014/050/f/8/mech_pilot_by_ineedascotch-d773yas.jpg) The Council of Generals had elected to overturn the Fleet Admiral's decision and reinstate him. His mother was elated which made him happy.
Michael loved his family. One of the reasons he started drinking was seeing his mom upset. But that only lead to constant arguments which kept feeding his depression. So seeing her all smiles again made him feel better. He cut back on the drinking, now he drank like an average mid-twenty year old in the military was supposed to. And like a good soldier he reported to base like General Eiling instructed for a top secret mission. To pick up the Yoran Princess and deliver her safely to the capital city on Arturia for her royal engagement to Prince Casius (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/73/f9/57/73f957fca96645329d6682231870e857.jpg). So now here he was, laying in the back of a X-105 Cargo Transporter (https://starcitizen.fr/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MISC-FREELANCER-05.jpg). A piece of junk of a ship. And one of the older models too. There was a small flight deck up front where he'd pilot, a few chairs for others to sit and monitor stations. The middle of the ship through a door was the crew quarters and through another door was the cargo bay, where he was sleeping. It was a low-key mission. A lack luster ship no one would bother with.
"Wake up Coran." Someone kicked the side of the bench he was laying on. Michael recognized the voice immediately.
Michael stood up and saluted. "General Eiling sir!" Normally Michael was much more relaxed in front of officers but he just got reinstated and didn't want to run the risk. The General was a grizzled veteran. Face scars and an eyepatch over his left eye, thick beard. Normally Eiling was in combat armor, ready at a moments notice. Not this time though. He was here in an official uniform (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/eb/b1/bb/ebb1bbb2bec41576e9013c63793684e5.jpg), hat tucked under his arm. The General was here to oversee the Princess' safe departure and act as an ambassador.
"At ease." Eiling rubbed his beard. "Just wanted to let you know the Princess is here with her entourage. Straighten your flight suit (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a5/69/84/a56984e2582c1cae3cec84f5920cdd25.jpg) out." Michael did as instructed, making sure his uniform was in proper condition, running a hand through his dark hair to straighten it out, before he joined the General outside the ship, standing perfectly straight as he awaited the arrival of the Princess.
AngelDellaNotte
04-18-2017, 01:21 AM
The chime of the elevator beeped with each level down they went. Ashira stood facing the door, next to her stood Lilian, (https://s16.postimg.org/d2e7r9uj9/Lilian.png) her personal body guard. Normally one would think it strange that a military officer would have a body guard but Ashira wasn't your average officer. Along with her rank she had another title, princess and everywhere Ashira went Lilian was always at her side. The elevator came to a stop at the lowest level some twenty stories under the ground. The lights dimmed to a very low level and from on top of the doors a red light shot out. It scanned over both Ashira and Lilian until it stopped over their eyes, sweeping across their retinas. A moment later it beeped again then the light turned green and door opened. “Access granted, Lieutenant Commander Idmoi and Sergeant First Class Dixon.” A computer voice said.
Ashira stepped out of the elevator walking in the room, (http://i.imgur.com/mqV1pex.jpg) the room was filled with computers covering the walls with their monitors reaching to the ceiling. In the center of the room was a large holographic table. On it was a hologram of an Arturian city, they had a Special Forces unit currently staged in the city and while peace talks were in the works the brass didn't want to pull them yet. Ashira's commander had instructed her to plan the assassination of the general for the planet. Their spies had managed to map out the general's daily routes and it was now up to the think tank to figure out the best method of assassination. Ashira had figured a sniper attack would be best and had been staring at this map for a few days trying to find the best vantage point. She had already ran over a hundred simulations most of them successful but left a low survivability rating for the sniper crew. She was determined to find a way that would result in the least amount of causalities.
While Ashira took her position at the holographic table Lilian took up her normal post at the edge of the room. Each day she would start here watching the princess and ensuring she remained safe though it really was just formality as they were twenty stories below ground on a secret military base that according to all official records didn't exist. The likelihood of someone attacking the princess was very low. Still Lilian took her job seriously and never let her guard down. She had only been assigned to the princess six months ago but had gotten to know her quite well and had to admit she quite liked the princess. At first the thought of protecting a royal sounded off putting Lilian was a career soldier who had seen plenty of time on the front lines, spending all day watching a spoiled royal didn't sound appealing. She had been wrong though, yes most days were boring with nothing happening but her opinion about the princess had been wrong. Ashira was a good person and not at all a stuck up royal. Often by the end of the day Lilian would be standing next to the princess giving her input on whatever plan she was working on. Ashira often said having the opinion of a soldier who had seen combat was very beneficial to the plans.
After nearly an hour Lilian looked over to the elevator doors seeing them open, she figured at first it was another member of the think tank coming in as they came and went all day. Instead though she noticed a man (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/0d/e3/9b/0de39bb8804d88a2a3875b7d5e5ea7dc.jpg) she didn't recognize walk through the door followed by several men (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/f8/f5/6a/f8f56ad36a5ca60bf3f4f5d893721411.jpg) each of them heavily armed. She stepped in front of the men her hand reaching for her sidearm and resting on top of it but not drawing it. With the amount of firepower these men had her pistol would be useless but she would die protecting her princess. “This is a restricted area and weapons are not authorized.” Lilian said, standing between them and the princess.
“Step aside sergeant.” The man said then introduced himself, “Major Drake I am here to escort the princess to the imperial palace.” Drake handed Lilian a data tablet and stepped aside of her to Ashira coming to a stop beside her. He stood there for a moment expecting her to notice him and not wanting to interrupt her but after a few minutes he cleared his throat finally getting her attention. “Your highness I am here to escort you back to the palace.”
Ashira glanced over briefly to him then went back to staring at the table, “I am not due back to the palace for another three weeks.” She said, while on active duty she was assigned to the secret base but her mother still wanted her to have a presence in the palace so she alternated between the two.
“Princess, I am Major Drake. I have instructions from Prince Casper to escort you to the palace. You need to follow me.” Drake said, politely but annoyed.
“As I said I am not scheduled to return for another three weeks. Now please Major I am quite busy.” Ashira said, not looking up from the table. Drake growled under his breathe then stepped closer to Ashira taking her by the arm and guiding her to the elevator. “Major!” Ashira said looking to him then to Lilian.
“Ma'am he does have orders from the palace.” Lilian said, handing Ashira the tablet.
Ashira took the tablet and looked it over seeing the emergency extraction orders. She handed the tablet back to Lilian as Drake guided her into the elevator. There wasn't much room in the elevator with Ashira, Lilian, Drake and his soldiers. “Major there is only one reason I can think of for an emergency extraction order so you better tell me what the hell is going on.”
“Your highness I was just given the instructions to escort you to the palace. Once we are airborne we will be at the palace in thirty minutes you can get your answers there.” Drake said, guiding her out of the elevator and to the helipad.
Throughout the flight back to the palace Ashira tapped on her fingers wishing she could look out the window but her escort insisted she sit away from them. She wanted to see what was going on outside, the only reason she could think of for an emergency extraction was something had happened to Empress. If she could see out the windows she would be able to see if there were more soldiers posted around the palace, standard procedures for a attack on the royal family. The transport landed and was lowered into an underground hanger, Major Drake lead the way out of the hanger and the Empress’ study. Inside Ashira noticed Casper (https://s10.postimg.org/tub2dv8yh/Casper.jpg) standing by the window and ran to him wrapping her arms around him, “Casper what is going on? Mother is she alight?” she asked.
Her brother looked at her a puzzled look on his face a moment, “Ashira, mother is fine why you would think she wasn’t? She wanted to speak with you about the treaty with the Arturians.” He asked.
“Well you did issue an emergency extraction and send in Special Forces. You could have at least sent a message.” Ashira said, pulling away and crossing her arms.
“I did, actually I sent three.” Casper said, as Ashira unfolded her arms and looked down at her right wrist, she tapped on a bracelet on her wrist causing a holopad (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/78/9e/02/789e027ab9d317b2662771ef4ba78918.jpg) to display over her wrist. On the holopad it showed that she had three unread messages. “You never check your messages. Seriously I am going to start sending messages to Lilian.”
“With all due respect your highness I am a bodyguard not your sister’s secretary.” Lilian said, said with a smile. While he had still been in the military Lilian had been assigned to Prince Casper’s squad and he was actually the one to recommend her as Ashira’s security.
The prince chuckled then wrapped his arm around Ashira’s shoulder, “Come on mother is waiting for you.”
Ushima
04-18-2017, 03:34 AM
As they were standing Michael's pilot helmet came flying at him. "Whoa!" He caught it easily. The black helmet had a white ace of spade painted on the side and dark tinted visor. Michael started at his reflection.
"Better watch out for this one General. He has a habit of punching authority figures." A large man walked toward the ship. The most noticeable thing about him was his large robotic left arm. Arturian tech. Advanced prosthetics that kept soldiers on the battlefield.
"You brought Cyrus (http://vignette3.wikia.nocookie.net/villains/images/9/96/Marchenkobigb.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20150619194740) with you?" Michael grumbled to the General.
"Captain Ironbane is head of my security." General Eiling explained. Cyrus Ironbane, a ruthless spec ops soldier back in the day. If the Council decided sending him with Eiling was a good idea it was clear they were sending a message, don't try anything funny. Flanking Cyrus were several other soldiers (http://media.bestofmicro.com/G/6/506022/gallery/Deus-Ex-screen-1_w_600.png). Handpicked by Cyrus surely.
Michael sucked his teeth and replied sarcastically. "I thought you wanted the best of the best?"
"What'd you say you punk?" Faster than he could see Cyrus' robotic arm grabbed Michael by the front of his pilot suit and lifted him into the air. "We thought you'd be a bit more grateful for being reinstated."
The General spoke sternly. "Captain. Put him down. Now."
It took a few seconds but eventually Captain Ironbane complied. "You're lucky I don't do to you what you did to Einhorn."
"Bring it tin man." Michael taunted, not willing to back down.
"Enough! Both of you!" Eiling snapped. Cyrus withdrew, disappearing around the side of the cargo ship. "Lieutenant." Michael shuffled over to Eiling, head down. "I know your father. He was a good man who clearly taught you to value other's lives. And Einhorn might have cared less about his men." The young officer thought the soldiers under his command were mere playings. Pawns to be sacrificed to bolster his career to higher ranks. "While I might be sympathetic to your justification for getting into a fight with him, need I remind you this is your one chance. You were reinstated for this mission and you keeping your job is dependent on it's success. That means your performance has to look flawless. No being late and certainly no picking fights. Is that clear?"
Michael snapped to attention. "Crystal sir!"
AngelDellaNotte
04-19-2017, 06:26 AM
She was lead from the Empress' study to her private office, (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/56/e4/5d/56e45d281e2ad8a9dc7b025e3c9deae1.jpg) it was a good size room but not as large as the previous room. Her study was mostly used to met with people while very few actually made it into the office. Casper and Ashira had been in this room many times both when they were younger and as adults. Often Ashira would meet with her mother here to discuss the appearances she wanted her to make. They walked in seeing their mother sitting on the sofa looking over a data tablet she looked up as the pair walked into the room, leaving Lilian, Major Drake and his men outside. “Ah good Ashira you are here.” Beatrix said, setting the tablet down on a table.
“You wanted to see me mother?” Ashira said, wondering what was so important they couldn't talk about it over a data line. Caspar said she wanted to discuss the treaty with the Arturians but she couldn't think of why that would require a in person visit.
“Your brother didn't tell you?” Beatrix asked arching her eyebrow at the prince making him cringe and take a step back. “Really Caspar if you are going to be Emperor you need to learn to hard have hard conversations.”
“Yes, mother.” Caspar said, sounding like a scolded school boy. He was used to leading soldiers in battle and could shout commands that could lead his soldiers to their death but telling people bad news wasn't something he was good at. He had lost several soldiers and at his mother's insistence he had made it a point to deliver the news to their families personally. It was a task he hated doing but his mother had been right it was better coming from him than some random officer.
“Caspar mentioned something about the treaty.” Ashira said, hoping to help her brother out, though she didn't think it was going to make much of a difference.
“Indeed, I have come to an agreement with King Cassian on the terms of the treaty.” Beatrix said, gesturing to Ashira to come sit next to her. Once the princess had sat down she continued. “Some concessions had to made to ensure the treaty would last and not become merely a ceasefire. I am sending you to Arturia to sign the treaty on my behalf and then you will finalize the agreement by marrying Prince Casius.”
Ashira thought of objecting she had never met Prince Casius but as part of the think tank she had seen many reports on the young man and wasn't sure he seemed to be a very arrogant man. She held her tongue knowing things in the Yoran Empire weren't going well, parliament was close to proposing a vote of non-confidence for the Empress. A vote of non-confidence could remove her mother from the throne and palace her brother on it or it could evict the whole family in favor for the most senior parliament member. Ending this war would go a long way to winning back public favor. Ashira closed her eyes briefly then opened them replying, “Yes, mother.”
Beatrix patted Ashira on the leg looking warmly at her though you could see in her eyes she wasn't thrilled with this arrangement. “Good, it is what is best for the empire. It has been decided that the two of you will be spending half a galactic year in the Arturian Empire and the other half in the Yoran Empire. A Arturian transport will be here within the hour, you will not be traveling with a Naval escort. We have reason to believe that there are force that don't want this treaty to succeed which is why we will be sending you in secret. You will only be accompanied by your personal security, an Arturian detachment and Major Drake's squad.”
Ushima
04-19-2017, 03:16 PM
"Alright pile in." General Eiling ordered. The General, his security force and Michael climbed up the ramp and into X-105. Cyrus' squad stayed in the cargo hold. Michael sat in the pilot's seat (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/63/06/16/6306169efad84195cb718331e4a6d1b5.jpg), flipping switches and pressing buttons. "Everything in order Lieutenant?"
"Aye sir. All engine checks have already been completed. Now I'm just checking the onboard systems." Michael's eyes flicked across display screens.
"Time to go pick up the package sir?" Cyrus asked as he sat in another chair on the left side.
"We have a schedule to keep gentlemen." Eiling sat in the chair on the right of the flight deck. "Lieutenant?"
"Onboard systems, check. Green across the board." Michael put on his helmet and opened a channel to the tower to give his call sign a. "Flight control tower this is Nighthawk on launch pad two delta. Requesting permission for take off."
The tower responded, "Roger Nighthawk. Request granted."
The engines of the X-105 kicked on and lifted the ship into the air. Michael piloted the ship in the direction of their pick up. "Estimated time of arrival fifty seven minutes."
"Keep her steady Lieutenant." Eiling looked out the window.
"Aye aye sir." This was his environment, piloting. Michael kept a good grip on the controls. "Sir, might I ask you something?"
The General nodded. "Speak freely Lieutenant."
"Are you sure it's a good idea to just send me back alone?" It had been decided that Michael would be the only Arturian aboard the X-105. They may have said a detachment but really they meant only him.
"I wanted to assign at least two others but some of the other Generals thought it unnecessary. Didn't see the need for a simple pick up." Eiling crossed his arms. "I was out voted."
"Not like it matters." Cyrus spoke up. "If things get out of hand you could always set the ship on a crash course with a moon." The large augmented man laughed. "Those fools might not realize it but if push comes to shove you could be the most dangerous bastard on this hunk of junk."
Michael was silent after that and remained so the rest of the trip. "We're approaching the landing zone."
"Unidentified space craft state your intentions or be shot down."
Michael's blood ran cold. "Shit."
"I got this son." The General pressed a few buttons on his chair. "This is General Eiling speaking here to enact Executive Order: Midnight Run."
After a tense minute different voice responded, one that seemed to carry greater authority. "Arturian Transport proceed to pad one"
"Roger." Michael sighed. "Holy shit. This is serious." Carefully, not wanting to draw the ire of the AA guns, Michael directed the ship to the designated landing zone. "Landing gear deployed." Several seconds later the ship jerked. Now on the ground.
"Arturian vessel you will submit yourself for a security inspection."
Michael replied, "Affirmative. Standby for our exit." Once the comm was off he grumbled. "Not even a please and thank you. These people." The ramp at the back of the ship lowered and the group exited, standing off to the side as a security team boarded. "No one better fuck with my seat!" Michael yelled after them. "Took me three hours to get it just right!"
AngelDellaNotte
04-20-2017, 05:21 AM
The empress had told her to go pack but to only take what she needed right away. Once she had arrived in Arturia and signed the treaty the rest of her belongings would be sent along. So what she mostly packed were clothes, sticking primarily to regular clothes and leaving her military uniforms. She was going to sign a peace treaty it wouldn't be a good idea to show up looking like a military officer. She needed to give an image of peace. On that note she started looking something to wear on the trip. First appearances were everything and they were starting a new chapter in Arturian and Yoran history.
Ashira chose a simple pants suit (https://mir-s3-cdn-cf.behance.net/project_modules/disp/dbf15648116237.560823d299fb9.jpg) with the national colors of the Yoran Empire. It wasn't overly formal but not too causal yet would distinctly mark her as Yoran. When everything was done she had two bags of clothing and a few data tablets. Her work wasn't on any of the tablets as it was classified data and if her future husband or his family saw any of the plans she worked on them it could jeopardize the treaty. She did wonder what would happen with her military career, she couldn't think of a way she could continue it in Arturia. It no doubt would be put on hold until she returned home and she probably would be put in an administration position. She may be marrying an Arturian prince but she was Yoran at heart and would earn her citizenship.
A couple of servants carried her bags to landing pad one where she had been told her escort would be landing. She arrived a little before the crew did and managed to catch the ship landing. It was an older model X-105 transport a beat up one at that. A smirk came to Ashira's face all this seemed oddly familiar to her. Project Midnight Run, it had been a plan she had come up with to get a group of soldiers into Arturia space. The plan was to sneak into the nation under the guise of Arturian merchants. Travel on a Arturian ship dressed as merchants loyal to Arturia. They had already used the plan successfully a few times. The assassination plan she had been working on early was for a group of special forces who had made it to the planet in this very method. They hadn't attempted to make it all the way to the capital only a few of the outlying planets. Ironic that she would be now traveling in this method. She was a little surprised her mother shared it with the Arturians but then again if the treaty lasted they wouldn't need to sneak into the nation.
Once the ship had landed it was surrounded by a group of Yoran soldiers who instructed Ashira to step back behind a blast shield until they had secured the ship. The lead officer ordered them stand by for a security inspection. She watched as the hatch opened and several men exited the ship one of them shouting something about his seat.
Ushima
04-20-2017, 11:10 PM
After the security team finished their sweep of the vessel Michael went to work on his post-arrival checks. Opening panels and checking the components. The nature of this run demanded even more extensive checks. While Michael was working on the X-105 General Eiling and Captain Ironbane approached the royal entourage. They stopped and bowed respectfully to the Princess. "Lady Ashira. I am General Eiling, Ambassador for this mission. This is Captain Ironbane, my head of security. Your pilot as you can see is currently occupied with the standard procedure of post and pre flight checks. I believe it best to have him complete his duties to maintain our timely schedule."
The sound of metal hitting the ground rang out around the landing pad followed by an unprofessional curse. "Fuck! Shit." Michael appeared from around the back of the ship, one hand held to the back of his head. "What the..." He pulled his hand away and looked at it, then put it back and looked back at the ship. Then he noticed the others gazing in his direction. Michael caught the General's eye. "Who requisitioned this piece of junk!? I'm gonna kick their ass when I got back!" He cursed some more as he ducked back behind the ship. The General saw him lean down and push something up, he could only assume some panel fell down and caught him on the head.
Cyrus chuckled next to the General. "The kid has a very unprofessional mouth doesn't he General?"
Eiling sighed. "He never listens to a word I say. I feel sorry for his mother raising him." The old General coughed into his fist. "Yes, well, moving on. His skills are top notch despite his lack of decorum I assure you."
"Where's that fuel truck?" Michael asked one of the ramp workers, a young kid who seem terrified of the veteran pilot. She stammered a response the ran off only to be replaced by a truck backing up to the ship. "That's better." Once the truck stopped he grabbed the hose off the truck, it unwound as he walked toward the engine. Michael attached it and with a heavy twist secured it in place. "Ok start it up!" The truck hummed as it began pumping fuel into the X-105. As Michael was fueling the craft the group was entering the ship, the General clearly giving them the grand tour inside of the outdated cargo hauler. Michael's gaze traveled over the Princess and he stared for a moment before looking away unimpressed.
AngelDellaNotte
04-25-2017, 05:08 AM
The general invited Ashira and her entourage onto the ship, by now Major Drake had returned though he only had one of his men with him. They both had changed into more casual clothes, when they had first arrived all of the soldiers had been in uniform and made Ashira wonder if they planned on traveling that way. For Midnight Run to work they had to appear as Arturians and she was glad Major Drake read the brief. She was also happy he decided to cut down their numbers. The more people would be harder to explain if they were questioned. Though it did help having actual Arturians aboard.
They walked past the pilot as he worked on the ship, he didn’t seem like your typical military man but then again Ashira didn’t know many Arturians or rather any. With the war having been going on as long as it has it wasn’t an uncommon thing. She had read about how at the beginning of the war it was hard for people who knew those they were fighting against but that wasn’t the case now whole generations had grown up knowing nothing but the war. The ship was small and worn out, she had seen the ship their special forces had used and it was nowhere near as beat up as this one. But then again they had months with it to get it back into shape and only appearing beat up. The Arturians didn’t have the time that they did with their ship. She just hoped the ship would make it.
“General, I trust that despite the appearance of your ship that your crew will be able to safely get the Princess to your homeworld safely.” Major Drake said, clicking his tongue at the state of the ship.
Ushima
04-25-2017, 03:20 PM
"We've made improvements internally. Buffed the engine and shield generator. The run-down appearance is to masquerade as a salvage team. Your pilot can pull off a pissed off down on his luck junker very easily. You're in good hands." Eiling had made sure Michael was well prepared with their cover story if they were to be stopped by passing patrols or had to make any stops along the way. "It will be just our pilot with you as agreed. We'll be leaving for Arturia in a few days after we conclude our business here."
Michael walked up the ramp, breezed past the Yoran crew quickly, not even sparing them a glance. Passing the crew quarters he joined the General on the flight deck. "Sir!" Michael saluted. "Pre-flight checks completed. Reporting a hundred percent functionality across all exterior components."
General Eiling quickly saluted back. "Excellent. Lieutenant Coran I want to officially introduce you to Major Drake and Princess Ashira."
"Major." Michael turned toward them, still at attention. His right fist hit the left side of his chest and he bowed to the princess. While he might be unimpressed Michael knew better than to be disrespectful directly to the princess. "Your Highness. Lieutenant Coran, at your service."
AngelDellaNotte
05-01-2017, 11:23 PM
She looked around the ship taking note of the model, it had been one they had considered for their plans but eventually vetoed due to the size and cover story required for it. The X-105 Cargo Transporter was designed for a small crew and while it had a crew berth that held six assuming the crew hot swapped bunks between shifts it still was very cramped. Most often these ships ran with a crew of three, and occasionally with only one. General Eiling had said they would be departing at a later time, no doubt so he could go over the final drafts of the treaty with her mother before transmitting it back. Which left Lt. Coran, Major Drake, his man, Lilian and herself. Five people about a savage ship like this would be difficult to sell to any passing patrols. Her mother no doubt had disregard the guidelines for Project Midnight Run to ensure her daughter had a proper escort. “A pleasure to meet you Lt. Coran.” Ashira said, realizing he was the first Arturian she had ever met. They didn't seem all that different. Though history told that centuries ago the Arturians and Yoran had been one people before branching out into space.
She turned to Major Drake and his soldier still thinking that perhaps there were too many people aboard. “Major would you and your soldier please conduct a walk around of the ship to ensure everything is in order?” She instructed, then before the pilot had a chance to mention that he had just done that she held her hand up. “I insist, nothing against your ability Lieutenant it would put me at ease.”
The major nodded to her then saluted before he and the soldier exited the ship to conduct the walk around. Once Major Drake was clear of the ship she turned back to Lt. Coran. “Lt. Can I trust you will have us airborne before the Major can even start his walk around?”
“Your highness, this is against the instructions from your mother. She wanted you to have security escort.” Lilian said, though she was more stating a fact then objecting to the change in plans. She had served with the prince long enough to know that he didn't always follow the plan and it would seem his sister was the same. It was one of the perks of being a royal, any other soldier would have been reprimanded yet with the prince the brass always just looked the other way. She wondered how the empress would respond to this but figured it would be something they dealt with later.
“Lilian you know as well as I do that a ship of this size with a crew of over three has a 23.2% chance of passing through a check point and the cover story holding. Besides I have you as a security escort.” Ashira said with a smirk, then when Lilian shrugged she turned back to Micheal, “Well Lieutenant?”
Ushima
05-02-2017, 12:33 AM
Michael was about to mention he had done the pre-flight walk around but the Princess spoke before him, saying it would put her at ease. The pilot simply shrugged after that. "Do what you want, you're kind of in charge here." The Major left them on the flight deck.
"Well I believe I'm no longer required here." General Eiling put on his hat. "Princess Ashira I leave you in the Lieutenant's very capable hands. And I'll see you in a couple days Lieutenant. Give your father my regards when you see him."
"Aye air!" Michael snapped to attention and saluted the General. "I'll tell pops you said hello."
"Very good." Eiling returned the salute. "Captain we're leaving!" The General barked orders to his head of security who responded by rounding up his men.
Michael watched the General leave, descending the ramp and heading off with Ironbane and his squad. Now he was alone. Alone with the Princess of the Yoran and her aide. Or bodyguard? He didn't know, could of been both. There was nothing wrong with having both jobs rolled into one. Just when he was trying to figure that out what the Princess said next surprised him. She wanted to leave, with her crew still on the outside. She wanted to ditch her escort, causing Michael to smirk devilishly. "Strap yourselves in!" Michael threw himself into the pilot's seat and quickly his hand flew across the console. He pressed the button which controlled the loading ramp, the hydraulics kicked on and brought it up. The ramp locked into place. "Princess just to inform you the ramp controller is trying to contact up." Michael pointed to a flashing button, Major Drake was standing in front of the ship next to a communication panel. "I'm electing to ignore it." Snickering to himself as he saw the look on the Major's face through the cockpit window. Reaching over to his radio he flick the channel over to the control tower. "Flight Control this is Nighthawk on pad one requesting clearance for take off."
The tower, not knowing what's going on down on the launch pad, acknowledge them. "Nighthawk you are clear for takeoff."
"Thank you tower. Nighthawk taking off." Michael pulled his flight helmet on as he hit the button for the thrusters. The X-105 shook as it started to rise into the air. "Ladies and...well just ladies. Thank you flying air Nighthawk, please keep your tray tables and seats in the upright position." The ship launched into the air. "Man I wish I can see the Major's face now." Michael laughed, smiling as he set the coordinates to their first destination along the way to Arturia.
"Artificial Gravity Engaged." The computer announced after they broke out of the atmosphere.
Michael unbuckled his restraint, his helmet was removed and hooked onto the back of his chair. "Ok you all are clear to move about the ship. Stretch your legs, get a snack. Make yourselves comfortable it'll be a bit before our first stop."
AngelDellaNotte
05-02-2017, 02:28 AM
The two of them barely had time to move to the launch seats and strap in before Michael hit the thrusters. Ashira chuckled a bit at his commentary though she had to admit she wasn't exactly familiar with what he was saying. Sure she had heard it during holo-films but she had never actually flown on a public plane. Her trips were usually in luxury liners owned by the royal family or state of the art military crafts. Thinking of the difference in the planes she was used to flying none of them were ever so rough with take off. They always had stabilizers that made for a much smoother ride. The only thing close to this was when she had been going through her basic military training when she had gone through drop training but it hadn't been nearly as bad as this. Being an intelligence officer she wasn't sent to infantry school like most soldiers but she did do some basic training.
Gripping the arm rests of the chair she closed her eyes and focused on controlling her breathing. Across from her Lilian sat in her seat holding in a chuckle at the princess' reaction. She knew that Ashira had gone through a modified training program that was common for nobles and royals who were serving merely to get their citizenship, a program no where near as intense as the real thing. Yes they went through drop training but it wasn't in the standard drop craft but a training one that was only ever used in controlled environments. A real drop ship shook a hundred times worse than this and there were hundreds of soldiers who had lost their lunch on their first drop. Twice that amount when they had their first combat drop.
“Princess, are you alright?” Lilian asked.
“I'm just fine, Lilian and from here on out no more titles or ranks we must fully embrace our cover if we want to make it across the galaxy undetected.” Ashira said, lessening her grip when the artificial gravity kicked in. She unbuckled her restraints and stood stumbling a bit as she got used to the artificial gravity aboard the ship. It didn't feel right like she was too light, the ship's systems must not have been properly calibrated. After a few practice steps she felt she was getting used to it. She turned to Lilian and said, “Go make sure our things are secured in our quarters, I'm going to meet with the pilot and figure out where we are going to make our first way point.
There was no set route that they were to take across the galaxy it was to be determined by their pilot while en-route to help ensure against any leaks in either government. She moved to the cockpit and sat down in the copilot chair pulling up a navigation map. “Where do you intend to stop to refuel?” She looked over the list of nearby stations and planets. The nearest station was Iyo station and was only a couple hours flight but she doubted they would need to restock by then and a stop over there would be pointless. Forgan station was the perfect distance to travel between stations but ever Yoran knew it was a haven for smugglers and low lifes, it would be best to avoid it. Which left stopping over on the planet of Haroni. It was tropical planet that was often used as a resort destination for the elite and well off. The trip would put them a little past Ashira's ideal travel distance but it seemed like the better choice. “I think we can push it the extra couple hours to Haroni. Travel time would be just over ten hours at our current speed.”
Ushima
05-02-2017, 03:06 AM
"Haroni..." Michael brought the planet up on his screen. "Ten hours..." He was running the calculations in his head and input the coordinates into the computer he. Speed and fuel consumption to reach the distance needed to land on the planet. "Perfectly doable." Michael set the ship to the appropriate speed and engaged the autopilot. "Next stop Haroni." Once the ship was successfully flying on under it's own power Michael stretched, joints popping. "Damn I was at attention way too much today for my liking." The pilot stood, unzipping the front of his flight suit. It hung down around his waist leaving him in a dark tank sleeveless t-shirt and fingerless gloves. His exposed arms showed some scars and tattoos on the arms. On the right shoulder was the Arturian Emblem in black ink. On the left was an Ace of Spade, also in black except a bit of the interior of the spade. Inside devoid of ink was a skull with x10 next to it. A mark signifying his skill as an ACE and that he met the ten kill requirement to be called such.
Leaving the flight deck he entered the crew quarters. His other passenger seemed to stiffen, clearly not expecting him to walk in but that surprise quickly washed away. "Ten hour flight I'm definitely getting something." Opening a storage cupboard he pulled out a snack before closing it again. After that he moved to a small refrigeration unit and pulled out a bottle. "Help yourself." Michael said to Ashira's aide bodyguard. Returning to the cockpit he plopped himself down in his chair, slouching in comfort. "So," He ripped open a stick of meat, tearing off bite of his ration he chewed it and swallowed before finishing his sentence. "Quite the hasty getaway. Clearly against regulation which, by the way, I'm all for." Michael chuckled, making small talk. He wanted to avoid the clichéd 'so tell me about yourself' line. He liked things to come up naturally in conversation and expand about it from there. A much more enjoyable way of communicating, he thought. "Any other pilot probably would've said no but you get stuck with me. Consider yourself lucky for that Princess." As he talked he kept glancing at the radar, a good habit to have and one drilled into him during training. Just like driving and checking your cameras every few minutes, always glance at the radar every so often. Kept him alive. "I'm excited to see Haroni. My second planet in the system. Can't wait."
AngelDellaNotte
05-02-2017, 03:41 AM
When Micheal opened his flight suit Ashira's eyes were drawn to first his muscled chest then to his arms noting the scars and the tattoos. They weren't something common among the nobility though many of the common people had them. Her brother had a unit tattoo in about the same location as Micheal's spade and she knew that Lilian had the same one. It had infuriated her mother when she found out the prince had gotten a tattoo and she refused to allow him to wear anything that showed it when in public. Caspar always told her it was a badge of honor something to always bind him to the men and women he had served with. She had asked him a million times if it hurt when he got it but he would always brush her off saying she shouldn't think of things like that. And if she even thought of getting a tattoo their mother would be the least of her worries. She didn't think Caspar had anything against her getting one except that their mother would blame him.
Still staring at the tattoo she couldn't help but reach out and touch it, her fingers tracing around the edge of the tattoo wondering what it meant. “Sorry.” She said, when she realized what she had just done pulling her hand away and folding it in her lap as he stood up and left the cockpit. He returned a few minutes later with some food making Ashira think about how she hadn't eaten since breakfast. She was a little glad he asked about her choice to leave the major behind, it distracted her from the embarrassment of touching his tattoo and being a little hungry.
“Having the Major and his soldier aboard the ship lowered the chances of success 76.8%. Though in reality it probably would have been closer to 82% as I doubt either of them would have been able to assume our cover to a believable level. The mission itself already only has a 63% chance of success we don't need any variables that can lower that precent. Sorry again, with the figures, I've spent the last six months as a statistical analyst, numbers are kinda of my thing.” She said, hearing Lilian's voice in her mind reminding her that most people got lost when she started speaking stats. “Major Drake would have never have agreed to allow us to leave unescorted but it is vital to the success of this mission. I had a feeling you would be willing to go along with it.”
“Haroni is quite a planet, more beaches than you can count and twice as many stuck up noblemen.” Ashira said, recalling a few of her trips to the planet. When she was younger her mother loved to vacation there and she couldn't help but notice how many of the visitors treated the locals. They had no respect for them and treated them poorly. Ashira always did her best to be kind to them whenever she could. She didn't realize it but that was one of the reasons she was so popular among the people, but that wasn't why she did it, she did it because it was the right thing to do.
Ushima
05-02-2017, 04:11 AM
The pilot nodded. "That makes sense. If something is going to hinder the mission it's best to not even bother taking it. Good call." Michael hit a few buttons, calculating for drift and checking systems. "Though I might have been able to bullshit my way through it. Probably for the best that my horrible acting skills were not put to the test for this." Unsurprisingly to Michael he wasn't chosen as a candidate for spec ops. Pilots who would be chosen to fly stolen enemy ships back behind enemy lines and complete missions. Assassinations. Sabotage. Espionage. He couldn't do it. But that was ok with Michael. His skills were better put to use dominating space, such as Verdin where he earned his nickname. "Most we'll run into is pass patrols, if anything. Boarder patrols are inevitable, what with their scanners. You handle your people and I'll yell at mine and we'll be all good to go." Michael was optimistic, energetic. His reinstatement hinged on this mission going well.
"Beaches?" Michael grinned. "I haven't been to one in a long time. Last time was two years ago when I was assigned to Zigama. I was there running security patrols around the planet while we used it as a go between the frontlines." Michael sipped his water. "There was this beautiful cove I went too every couple weeks for R and R. The water was a nice crystal blue and nearby was a nice tree line. A bunch of us would make a bonfire at night, sip some beers and relax and tell old stories from basic or tales from missions." He smiled, taking another bite he turned toward Ashira. "So, like the ink?" Michael flexed his left arm. "The unofficial badge of an ACE pilot. Shows our skill in aerial and space combat." Michael had over forty confirmed kills during his time and unofficially around seventy. "Do they not have tattoos on Yoran? You seem pretty captivated by it."
AngelDellaNotte
05-08-2017, 09:07 AM
“Some people get them but not many that are of...” She said, trailing off as she tried to think of how to word it. She had known from a young age that she was different than most people that being a royal set her apart. It had become first apparent to her when she had been a young child and had started playing with a couple of the children whose parents worked in the kitchens. To a six year old it wasn't anything special just a few children playing tag. She had a good time and she was sure the other kids had as well, at first she hadn't understood why her nanny had been so upset to find them. She had whisked Ashira away while scolding the parents of the other kids. When Ashira had asked about it the nanny explained that the other kids weren't like her. It had taken Ashira many years to figure out what she meant was they weren't noble born and weren't children of citizens.
“The same social standing as me.” Ashira finally said, she didn't know if the Arturians had the same status levels as the Yoran did and if they did she didn't know where Micheal would fall in. She didn't want to offend him. They would be stuck together for several days and she didn't want to make the journey awkward. “There are those that do have tattoos but not many of them roam the hallways of the royal palace and even less display them.”
She hoped that she had put that well and wouldn't offend him. Aside from making the trip awkward she had to admit she was starting to like Micheal. It wasn't often she found someone who would open up around her and treat her like a normal person. Even Lilian had been assigned to her for close to three months before they actually had a real conversation. It always seemed that everyone felt they had to be on their best behavior around her. “Did it hurt when you got it?” She asked.
Ushima
05-08-2017, 05:19 PM
"Must have been tough growing up, not being allowed to make friends with people because of their social standing." Michael sighed, running a hand through his short hair. "I can't say I know what it's like. My father might be an Admiral now but he wasn't always. He got the promotion right before I went to the academy at eighteen. So most of my childhood I got to run around with the neighbor kids and cause trouble. Even now Admiral really isn't a position of nobility. My dad oversees the planetary defense fleet which is important yes but nothing like the responsibility a General has. Each General governs a planet in our cluster. Closest thing to nobility we have outside the Belmont Royal family." Jared Coran commanded the Planetary Defense Fleet from the bridge of the Deadalus (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/bf/35/20/bf352042247499729684d4176e3ea2c9.jpg). It's main objective, protect the homeworld. "Even when I was in training with Prince Cass (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/aa/1c/c0/aa1cc0ae044d12872db22f4c21115b22.jpg) I didn't bother to ask. Prince Cass will be your brother-in-law by the way."
The Royal Heir was a year older than Michael. He was held back from the Academy due to an accident he had, broken leg after falling off a horse. By the time he was healed it was time for the next batch of recruits to enter. Cass stuck with Michael throughout their time, forming a close friendship and rivalry. "He's a nice guy. Can get a bit competitive at times though. He hated it whenever I did better than him, which was practically all the time." Michael leaned in close to Ashira. "Yeah, I'm that good." Michael chuckled, pulling back to his previous position in his chair. Even with Michael's connection to the Prince it didn't help him with his discharge. Word of the incident was kept from Prince Cass for that reason.
"Tattoos can hurt. They can also be pretty painless. It's all down to a few factors. Pain tolerance, location, number of nerves. Up on the arms like mine where there is a lot of muscle and not as many nerves didn't hurt much. Like a bunch of cat scratches honestly. Also my pain tolerance is pretty high thanks too...well...a lot of things really. Training mostly..." Michael forced a smile, forcing himself to stop thinking of his past. "Prince Cass has one too. The ACE tattoo." The pilot flexed his arm again. "But he got it on his back between his shoulder blades, that way it could be kept out of sight by pretty much any shirt he wore. That one hurt. I remember laughing at him for whining about it." Michael finished off his snack, getting up to throw out his garbage and rinse out his cup. At the sink he faced the bodyguard. "There's two more seats up front. No need to hide in the back." Even if she refused to join them he was making the offer to be friendly. They were together for a few days so it was best they got along well. "I don't bite. Not unless you ask anyway." Laughing at his own joke Michael returned to the flight deck. "So princess, if you want one I know a guy who can hook you up. Under the table no questions asked."
AngelDellaNotte
05-10-2017, 05:44 AM
“I don't think it would be very proper.” Ashira said, the thought of getting a tattoo exciting her but she knew she shouldn't. Her mother would never allow it and she wasn't sure how her future husband would feel about her having a tattoo. Add to that she had no idea what she would get anyway. Her thoughts were drawn back to why she was on this trip, she was traveling to be married to Prince Casius a man she knew nothing about. Micheal talked about Prince Cass like he knew him, making Ashira wonder if he knew Prince Casius as well. She wanted to ask him about it but was distracted by Lilian entering the cockpit carrying a tray.
The other woman set the tray down on the table next to Ashira, on the tray was a few simple sandwiches. In their short time together Lilian had learned sandwiches were Ashira's favorite food mostly because they were easy to eat with one hand and keep working. Helpful due to the fact Ashira often worked through lunch and wouldn't eat unless Lilian brought her something. Usually she would order them from the cafeteria but here on the ship they would have to be making their own food. Lilian sat down in one of the extra chairs picking up a sandwich and eating it, as she gestured for Ashira to do the same.
Picking the sandwich up she took a bite then turned back to Micheal wanting an answer to her musing about her fiance. “You seem to know Prince Cass but do you know much about Prince Casius? I have to admit I know very little about him.”
Ushima
05-10-2017, 01:30 PM
"I met him maybe three times." Michael said as he sat up, checking the navigation systems. "Once during the graduation ceremony when he came to see his brother. Twice more when Cass recommended me as a royal escort pilot. He seemed pretty calm, shy even. Maybe even nervous. Something tells me you'll be wearing the pants in the relationship." Chuckling Michael stood up, stretching again. He forgot Ashira was getting married for a moment. As they talked the reality of their situation slipped away from him and he lost himself in the pleasant conversation. "Nine hours to go." He moved through the ships, checking monitors. "Generators are good. Fuel consumption rate in the green. Looking good."
Yawning Michael entered the crew cabin. "I'm going to catch up on some sleep. The General got us going really early every morning on the way here." There were bunk style two beds on each side of the ship. Michael took the bottom bunk on the right side. Sitting on the edge he leaned down and removed his boots. "Ship is still on auto. Scanners set to max range. They'll alert me if anything pops up." Pilots had to be light sleepers, especially on long trips. They had to wake up at every beep, every noise their consoles made had to be checked. "It's also set to wake me when we approach the planet. Can't wait to see this place." Michael smiled as he laid out on the bunk. "I'd recommend sleep as well. If not I think there's a holographic chess board (https://img2.cgtrader.com/items/142195/a1a04e1dbb/holographic-chess-set-3d-model-c4d.jpg) in one of the containers."
AngelDellaNotte
05-11-2017, 05:46 AM
The pilot took his leave of them retiring to the crew quarters before mentioning there was a chess board. Lilian groaned at the suggestion, Micheal had no idea how bad of an idea that was. Chess was Ashira's favorite game and even if she didn't have a partner she could play for hours, days or weeks. In the time Lilian had known Ashira the longest game she had play was four months. She had mentioned it to Prince Caspar once and he had just laughed saying that wasn't a record for Ashira nor was it anywhere near it yet he refused to actually say how long the record was. “Just one game and then as Lieutenant Coran suggests we should get some rest.” Lilian said, chess was not on her list of favorite games but she was slowly growing to like it with all the games the princess and she played.
The game lasted a little over an hour then the two of them moved to the crew quarters taking the set of bunk beds across from Micheal, with Ashira on the top bunk and Lilian on the lower. The security sergeant had insisted it be that way if something happened she would be able to quickly jump into action. Ashira lay in the bunk not really that tired, she looked at the bracelet on her wrist it was blinking showing she had a couple messages. With talking to Micheal she hadn't noticed it had gone off, but to be fair she rarely ever did. She activated the holo-pad seeing a rather angry letter from her mother about leaving Major Drake behind and a comical looking screen shot of the major shouting at the comms device that was sent from her brother. She choose not to send a message to her mother not wanting to open that can of worms but instead sent a message to Caspar first commenting on the unflattering image of Major Drake then asking her brother to smooth things over with their mother and explaining her reasoning. After that she finally laid back and drifted off to sleep.
Several hours later they both awoke to the sound of beeping coming from the cockpit. It was the system alerting them that they were nearing their destination. Ashira looked over to the bunk Micheal was sleeping in noticing it was empty then climbed out of her bunk. Lilian's bunk was empty as well and she could hear some noises from the cockpit. She walked that way seeing Lilian and Micheal strapped in for landing. Through the front window of the ship she could already start to see the beautiful sight of Haroni. (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/a3/2c/df/a32cdfab33ca3fef041a14542cce0faa.jpg)
Ushima
05-11-2017, 03:18 PM
Michael was roused from his slumber by the loud beeping of the ship. Groaning Michael sat up, running the sleep from his eyes. "Computer. Status?"
An electronic female voice replied. "Approaching Haroni. Estimated time until atmosphere breach: fifteen minutes."
Standing up Michael stretched and worked out the kinks in his body. "Rise and shine everyone. I recommend taking seats before being thrown about the ship upon entering the atmosphere." Michael sat in his chair. Lilian joined him then shortly after Ashira. "Dampener is engaged. Entering atmo." The X-105 entered the atmosphere, the edges of the cockpit lighting up orange as the exterior heated up. The older cargo vessel jostled around but other than they dropped through with no problems. "We're in the pipe, five by five." Michael flipped several switches, putting the ship in atmosphere flight mode. Now that they were flying under the effects of the planet's gravity many of the thrusters around the ship weren't needed to control the ship so they were shut down to conserve energy. "Wow this place looks amazing." Smiling Michael flew them to their destination. A series of islands. Jutting out into the water was a large walkway with four platforms branching off it. Two of them already had ships on them. Michael set the X-105 down on the inner left one.
Michael eyed someone shuffling up the walkway. He seemed to be coming to greet them. Bellhop maybe? Manager even? They did show up out of the blue. "Hey uh, princess. Might want to do the talking here. That guy looks mad." The pilot hit the button, instead of lowering the cargo ramp the floor between the seats dropped and formed stairs leading right below the ship, under the flight deck. "Watch your step they're a little steep."
AngelDellaNotte
05-14-2017, 10:11 AM
Lilian led the way down the steps where they noticed a older man (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/cc/04/43/cc0443cf6f0c4212081ae68e611a6dd2.jpg) in a suit walking toward them with angry look on his face. He was followed by a group of security officers (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/7c/ba/f7/7cbaf7241f66319bece953ad92e795f5.jpg) with him, each one carrying a rifle that Ashira knew wasn't set to stun by the look on their faces. She looked over to the other platforms seeing that the ships on them were very fancy and nothing like the old cargo ship they were flying in. It probably didn't help that on the hull of the ship was an Arturian registration number. Lilian had barely stepped on the platform when the security officers commanded her to stop. She wasn't in her uniform and Ashira had no idea what her idea to smooth things over was going to be. Lilian gestured for Ashira to stay at the top of the steps.
“Halt, state your business Arturian.” One of the security officers said, with his rifle aimed directly at the bodyguard.
“I am no Arturian.” Lilian said, her accent holding the usual Yoran brogue to it. She held her hands up in the air in a non-threatening manner. “I am Sergeant First Class Lilian Dixon, I am on a diplomatic mission to escort a dignitary. We are here for fuel and supplies.” She said, slowly reaching over to tap her bracelet a holo-id appearing on her wrist.
The older man with them gestured for the guards to stand down then walked closer to Lilian looking at the holo-id and the unit tattoo on her forearm. The unit Lilian had belonged to before this assignment was well known through the Yoran Empire and well respected. “Ashton Harris, who is your dignitary?” The older man asked.
“That is classified and you do not have clearance.” Lilian said, with a stern look on her face.
Ashton looked to argue with her then stopped then nodded to her again. He turned to the security officers, “See that they receive the supplies they need.” Ashton said, before walking off leaving the officers.
Lilian instructed the officers on what they needed then walked aboard the ship again. She took Ashira by the arm guiding her back to the crew quarters looking through one of Ashira's suitcases until she found a scarf which she draped over Ashira's head concealing her features. “Princess I would prefer you stay on the ship but I know that isn't likely to happen so if you must disembark wear this.” She said.
Ashira smiled at how well Lilian knew her then walked back to Micheal linking her arm in his. “Well then Lieutenant shall we?” She asked.
Ushima
05-14-2017, 08:07 PM
"Docking clamps set." Michael sat in his seat as he set the ship to power down. "Shields offline. Weapons disabled. Killing engines." The hum of the engines faded until they emitted no sound. Sitting back in his chair Michael gazed out at the blue water. It was a beautiful sight, the sparkling sea in the fading sunlight. "Starting to get dark." Off in the distance the sky was starting to turn a mix of purple and orange. "Guess we can stay here the night. Get a real meal instead of rations, proper breakfast in the morning." With his decision made Michael got out of his chair and entered the crew cabin. If he was going to be around the people here at the resort he had something he had to cover.
Opening the medical unit Michael fished through the supplies. He pulled out a square adhesive bandage. Carefully he peeled off the backing and took hold of it with his left hand. "Careful." He told himself as he hovered the bandage over his right arm, over the tattoo. It was water proof too. In case he decided to take a dip in the water at some point later. After the covering of his Arturian tattoo was complete he went to the small armory. His assignment was to fly and protect the princess. A shelf slide out and Michael picked up his sidearm (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/e1/2c/fd/e12cfd207bb780e63fcd24cff1dbd07b.jpg), tucking the revolver behind him into his pants, covering it with his shirt.
Next thing he knew the princess was linking arms with him. “Well then Lieutenant shall we?”
"We shall, my lady. Tis an honor to escort you around such lavish scenery." Michael led the princess back outside the ship. "Lilian, you wouldn't mind taking care of checking in? I believe the princess and I shall find some proper meals instead of flight rations." Michael escorted Ashira across the walkway. "Remind me to pick up some paint next time we can. So I can clear up that Arturian model designation. Might be best if we can avoid encounters like that, less attention." Reaching the main island Michael was quick to find a directory. "This place, Bacoti's (http://www.thefoodrush.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/restaurant-tech-800x500-c-default.jpg). Looks promising. What do you think, my lady?"
AngelDellaNotte
05-17-2017, 05:04 AM
Lilian glared at the Arturian pilot not liking how he ordered her around, it was her detail to protect the princess not to check in like a bell hop. A glance from Ashira and she dropped the glare then went over to the guard station to secure their registration. Ashira smiled at Micheal's choice in restaurant, she had eaten there before but didn't let onto the fact. She wasn't sure why but she wanted to let Micheal feel good about picking the restaurant and it did have good food she just hoped that the owner Lawrence Baron didn't recognized her. She let Micheal guide her to Bacoti's where they were met at the entrance by the Maitre'D who informed them they were booked and without a reservation they wouldn't be able to get a table. Ashira was about to suggest they go some where else. She hadn't of thought about needing a reservation, being a royal meant you never needed them. The thought they wouldn't be able to get a table hadn't even crossed her mind. She didn't get a chance to suggest anything as Lawrence walked by stopping to look at the man that didn't look to be in the proper attire for a restaurant like this though the woman had a more passable outfit. “Jasper, I believe this couple is lost. Can you please show them out?” He said, taking another look at Ashira and recognizing her. “My apologies, your highness. I didn't realize it was you.”
She let out a sigh, they were doing a fine job on this mission. Their cover was blown on just their first stop. Lilian had done a good job covering for them on the landing dock but all it took was a trip out for dinner for Ashira to blow their cover. She stepped closer to Lawrence taking his arm and whispering, “It is good to see you again Lawrence, it has been far too long but my associate and I don't want to be seen. Would it be possible to have a little privacy? I rather not have anyone knowing I am here.” She said, thinking about what this must look like being at resort planet alone with a strange man. News of her engagement was restricted to only those that needed to know and even fewer knew about how she was traveling to Arturia. Lawrence no doubt would think she was on a romantic getaway with this man. It was a good enough cover, she just hoped it would work.
Lawrence let out a wide smile then winked at the princess and Micheal. “Of course just this way I have a private table on the terrace that I think would suit your needs.” He said, guiding them back to a secluded table sitting them down and giving them some menus. With Lawrence already knowing who she was Ashira didn't feel the need for the scarf, taking it off and wrapping it around her neck.
After leaving them at the table to go over the menus he head back to his office sitting down at the desk and pulling up a communication channel. It took a few moments before he was connected a video of older man (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/20/36/96/203696f88794adefbb5f476bfa16b61c.jpg) appearing on the screen. “Senator, I believe I have found something you've been looking for.” Lawrence said, pulling up a image of Ashira and Micheal sitting on the terrace.
Ushima
05-17-2017, 01:39 PM
Michael reached the table before Ashira, pulling the chair out for her. Once she was seated he sat down across from her. "Someone will be with you shortly." Lawrence said before walking away.
"This is quite the place." Michael looked around the restaurant. "I have never been to a place this fancy before." The terrace they were on overlooked the beach, the sounds of waves crashing upon the shore easily reaching them. Bright oranges and red filled the sky now, reflecting off the water. "That looks amazing."
"Good evening." Michael had been so captivated by the scenery that to him the waitress seemed to materialize out of thin air. "My name is Clara and I'll be serving you tonight." Clara had short curly dark hair. A tight white button up shirt which Michael was sure she used to get better tips from the wealthy old men that frequent the establishment. Around her neck was a red tie. Her skirt was also a matching red, going down to her knees. She wore dark nylons or stockings and red heels.
Michael smirked. "Seems beautiful scenery isn't the only we have tonight."
Clara smiled back at the flirtatious pilot, instead handing them the menu. "Can I get drinks for you while you look over the menu?"
Quickly Michael glanced at the alcoholic options he had. "Just a glass of Yoran Whiskey. Make it a double."
Clara nodded. "Two Yoran Rum for you."
"Oh not for me," Michael interrupted. "Well maybe. When do you get off work?"
Clara smirked back. "Working a double tonight."
"Two for me then." Michael smirked back, not at all bothered he'd been shut down.
The waitress turned to the princess. "And for you ma'am?"
AngelDellaNotte
05-18-2017, 03:01 AM
She watched as Micheal seemed taken in by the waitress flirting with her as if Ashira wasn't even there. Her thoughts were that they could still salvage their cover by pretending to be couple but that wouldn't work if Micheal was thinking with the wrong head. She looked over as he continued to flirt with the waitress a huff coming from her lips getting the waitress' attention. When she turned to Ashira she let out a wicked smirk recalling seeing this waitress a few times on previous trips to the planet. Ashira remembered watching the woman flaunt herself at a number of male patrons but when she had seen her later that evening it wasn't any of them whose arm she had left on but rather the Countess Marie Lebeau. Turning her smile to the waitress and softening it a bit, “I'll have a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon De Gui 2115. Oh and the gentleman will be picking up the check.” Ashira said, knowing the wine was a rather expensive one a single glass probably costing Micheal a full week's salary. “Actually I'll just take the full bottle.” Ashira winked to the woman then she reached out brushing her hand. “Perhaps by the time I finish it you will be off shift.”
The waitress let out a blush then rushed off to put in their drink orders coming back in a few minutes setting Micheal's whiskey down in front of him then uncorking the bottle and pouring a glass for Ashira. She left again saying that she would give them a few minutes to decide what they wanted. Ashira just looked over to Micheal that smirk still on her face as she sipped her wine.
Ushima
05-18-2017, 05:48 AM
Michael deflated as he watched Ashira flirt with the waitress. She seemed to have been more successful then he was. He sighed as he placed his arm on the table, resting his head in his hand. "Thanks a lot." Michael looked away from the princess. "I was hoping to get lucky tonight as it had been a while since I've gotten some." Before he was recalled for this assignment Michael had hit a dry spell. His time prowling the dive bars on Arturia got him in more fights than it got him laid. Instead of coming home with love bites on his neck and shoulders he returned with bruises and black eyes, cuts and scrapes and bloody knuckles. And while he hid it well behind big smiles, jokes and an air of calm confidence those that knew him could tell he was on a slight edge. Sighing again Michael sipped his whiskey.
Clara appeared at the table again. "Have we decided on what you'd like?"
"Sadly I didn't see your name on the menu." Michael was trying a more direct approach. "And I was too busy with thoughts of you to look at the rest of the items." Opening the page Michael found something quickly. He wasn't too picky when it came to food, as long as it wasn't spicy he was fine with it. "I'll take the roasted chicken, house salad is fine."
"Fine choice sir." Clara typed that into her data pad.
"You're finer." Michael licked his lips and smirks. "Much rather eat you up, probably a lot sweeter." Clara's face flushed at Michael's straightforwardness and lewd vulgarity. It was obvious he wasn't nobility or high class like the other patrons. His attitude and the way he dressed and carried himself gave that all away rather quickly. Clara glanced at Ashira, which Michael noticed. "Yes she's slumming it. Story will probably be in the tabloids tomorrow." No one knew their real reason for being here, even someone like he could figure out what everyone's opinion on them was. He wasn't a genius by any means but it didn't take much to be able to read a crowd. "So maybe it'd be best if we try not to create to big a story." Michael winked at Ashira. "As hot as what I have in mind with the two of you, mommy dearest would more than likely have an aneurism when someone tells her what her daughter had been up to on her little impromptu vacation." Chuckling Michael sipped his whiskey again. "Now then lover dear," he said to keep up the cover. "Order what you'd like. I am paying after all."
AngelDellaNotte
05-18-2017, 06:59 AM
“I'll have the filet mignon with a balsamic glaze, medium rare.” Ashira said, closing up the menu and handing it to Clara. She reached across the table resting her hand over Micheal's hand the smirk coming back to her mouth. “You'll have to forgive him. He gets cranky whenever he realizes he isn't enough to satisfy my appetite.” Clara jotted down their orders then practically ran from the terrace a blush turning her entire face red. Whether that was from Micheal, Ashira or both she wasn't entirely sure.
Once they were alone again Ashira turned back to Micheal the smile still on her face as she drank her wine. “Nice to see you back on script,” She said, thinking about how much her mother was going to have to pay to keep this from getting into the tabloids. “Do those pick up lines actually ever work? Then again most woman are how did you put it? Slumming it with you?”
-------------------------------------
“Of course Senator I will see to it that they still be here when your men arrive.” Lawrence said, ending the video conference a wide smile on his face. He wasn't sure what the Senator wanted with the princess but he sure was paying enough for it. The two of them had a long standing agreement that whenever Lawrence had guest that could be caught in compromising positions he would contact the senator. Most often he thought all that came of it was a little black mail. You didn't get as powerful and wealthy as the senator without rocking a few boats. Earlier in the week the senator had reached out to him and expressed how grateful he would be for any information on the royal family. It was hardly a secret that the senator had been plotting to move against the Empress. He was one of the biggest supporters for a vote of non-confidence. The senator was most likely looking for a little dirt on the royal family to speed things along. Lawrence himself didn't care who was on the throne as long as it was profitable. He looked back to the security camera noticing how both the Princess and the man with her engage with Clara. Very little was known about Princess Ashira's personal life and it would seem he now knew why, no doubt the Empress did everything she could to keep this hidden from the public.
Ushima
05-18-2017, 03:47 PM
"Only with the really naughty ones do those work. They've already made up their mind that they wanted to fuck and jumped into bed with whoever was willing. Nine times out of ten do they work at finding them." Michael chuckled, finishing off his first glass of whiskey. Setting aside the empty one he grabbed the second. "But I have other ways of charming a woman. If you hadn't jumped in you easily would've seen them." He made a weird face at the princess, feigning agitation. "And slumming it means going out with someone below your class. Which, clearly." Michael gestured at himself. His generic pilot suit, tattoos and scars. Obvious signs of someone without much influence. "But to be honest never has anyone of such nobility ever picked me to slum it with. No matter how many times I ask Cass to put in a good word and set me up with is sister Cassilia (https://vignette4.wikia.nocookie.net/thekingdomofios/images/f/ff/640x550_8325_Precaution_2d_illustration_girl_woman _princess_fantasy_picture_image_digital_art.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20120920222514). Some friend right?"
The second whiskey was almost gone at this point. Michael was starting to feel the familiar buzz. No more alcohol for him after this. "So there was a script we were to follow." The pilot downed the rest of the liquid in one swig, making a face as it burned on the way down. "Oh too much in one go." Michael grabbed the glass of water that every table was given, cooling the burning in his throat. "Those were just a throw away line until I knew for sure. Glad I was right and you are using a romantic getaway as an excuse for being here. I guess officially a pretty noble woman was slumming it with me, cover story or not." Looking around Michael made sure no one was around. "And the only ones who know an Arturian is here is that manager guy and his security force, and they didn't see me being on the flight deck and everything. So that won't come back to us, least it shouldn't. Hope it doesn't. Possibly? Oh look the food is coming I'm saved from my inebriated rambling for the time being."
AngelDellaNotte
05-20-2017, 03:24 AM
She listened to Micheal ramble on for a bit glad that the food had come if only if it stopped him from talking. Perhaps she should have warned him about Yoran whiskey being stronger than normal whiskey. It was a good thing he switched to water, drinking two glasses that close together was no doubt going to go to his head. Clara set their food down in front of them and refilled her glass of wine. Clara offered to get Micheal another whiskey but Ashira told her he was better off drinking water for while. Once the waitress was gone she looked back to the pilot, “Yes, there is a script and I have to say it was a good idea we left Major Drake behind you are a horrible actor.” Ashira said, as she started to eat. “I'm sure Cassilia doesn't know what she is missing. As for your first notch on your belt for slumming I fear dinner is all your going to get.”
------------------------------------------------------
One flight deck one a small private carrier landed with a number of men in black fatigues jumping out. Half of them broke off staging on the launch pad Micheal's ship was currently docked. Lilian wasn't currently with the ship she had gone into the town to get some more supplies, begrudgingly leaving Ashira's safety to the pilot. While the other half headed to the restaurant heading around to the back where they met with Lawrence. Lilian was just about done at the market when she noticed the men run by, they seemed out of place on the resort planet and something just didn't sit right with her so she followed them.
Ushima
05-20-2017, 05:27 AM
Michael placed a hand over his heart, feigning disappointment. "Oh and after all that work I put in." Chuckling too himself he cut into his chicken. "Ok admittedly flirting with the waitress and trying to sleep with her probably did knock a few points off. I mean that's basic dating knowledge right? At least that's what I've heard. Wasn't much for relationships growing up. High School seemed to have left a bad taste in my mouth about the entire experience. Then I turned eighteen and entered the training program and then bounced from one meaningless fling to the next." The Arturian pilot let out a quiet noise delight as he ate. "This is delicious." He washed down his bite with water. "Remind me to give my compliments to the chef. I wonder if there's a comment card or something that I can fill out? Is their a sight for this resort on their webnet page? Maybe I can leave a review?" Michael noticed that despite his talking through the meal he was finishing faster than the princess. His meal was slightly smaller and he was taking larger bites at faster rates. He was bigger and due to training and the nature of missions sometimes found himself eating meals as quickly as possible. It was a habit that he slipped into every now and then. So Michael finished his polished off the last of his meal quickly, his now full stomach helping to absorb the alcohol in his system. "So tell me princess," Michael leaned back, holding a glass of water. "Any romances for you before all of this? Not leaving anyone behind to get burned in the end of the war?"
AngelDellaNotte
05-30-2017, 08:35 PM
“I've dated a bit and was actually engaged once before.” Ashira said, eating her own meal at a much slower rate than Michael. The food was good and always one of the things she loved most about Bacoti's, whenever she was on Haroni she visited or had food delivered. She looked up to Michael realizing she would have to explain that to him, the little she had gotten to know him he certainly would want to know more. Why she was telling him this she didn't really know, she never liked talking about her failed engagement. Just with Michael she felt like she could open up around him. Perhaps it was because when this was over the likelihood of her ever seeing him again was small. “Edmund Larkin, we were high school sweet hearts. Or so I thought. A couple weeks before the wedding I learned Edmund wasn't exactly interested in me but rather my title. I found him cheating on me and had been nearly the entire time we were together.”
A frown crossed her face she had really thought she was in love with Edmund and hadn't realized it was a school girl crush. It didn't make what he did to her hurt any less. She could still recall the black eye Caspar had given him, when her brother had found out about his betrayal he had shown Edmund what he thought about it with his fists. Ashira had called off the engagement, Edmund had tried to make it seem like it was a mutual decision but Caspar refused to let him get away with it that easy and had made it known what he did. As far as she Edmund was living on the planet of Okani the furthers planet out and a desert wasteland aside from a few cites. “After that I found it hard to trust anyone. I can't say I've dated anyone seriously since then. Mostly live from fling to fling but I doubt it is anything like yours.”
Ushima
06-01-2017, 01:12 AM
"So the princess is a flinger? Wouldn't have expected that from someone of such high nobility." Michael leaned in a bit and whispered, "Don't worry I won't tell. There must have been a great effort to keep that on the down low. I know Cas swore me to secrecy whenever we went to Paradiso. If I told anyone or let slip he was the royal heir I'd find myself on Drak before the hangover wears off." Paradiso. A pleasure planet in the neutral zone. A lot of ships from both sides would come in for shore leave. It was controlled by a powerful company and thus had no ties to either the Yoran or Arturians. There was profit in pleasure and they ran the monopoly. "But I doubt your affairs were anything like mine. I was in a bad spot and looking for anything to fill the emptiness. There was only one other time I felt like that." Michael poured the remnants of Ashira's wine into his empty water glass. "I too was once in a serious relationship. Back when I was seventeen in the final years of school. Like many career military parents mine sent me to a preparatory school. Met Clarissa, beautiful long shining blonde hair. Deep, rich emerald eyes. Loved her on the spot. Only problem was she had this other friend. Kyle. They had dated before but he was an asshole and cheated. But she was obsessed with him almost to extreme levels. Willing to overlook all his abuse. He even tried proposing on her birthday. Poor fool didn't even get a ring for it."
Michael sipped the wine. "It went back and forth between us. We were happy one week the next I was left high and dry. Mother told me I should've moved on. Friends told me she was just using me as a shoulder to cry on, a rebound lay. And they were right but I was slowly making her realize what a horrible person he was. But I was blinded by love. After graduation we planned to spend some time together, just the two of us, at my family's beach house. One last trip to celebrate going to basic soon and starting our military careers. But Kyle got word of it and decided they'd take their own trip. Picked her up on his bike and took her on a road trip. She messaged me and told me they were looking at houses in the country. That one stung." Another sip of wine went down. "I wish this story had a violent ending like yours did. Wish I punched that prick in the face. I didn't even get closure. There was an accident on the way home. Clarissa died instantly and Kyle got off with a two week coma. He hadn't bothered to show himself around the city, afraid I'd get wind of it and show up seeking vengeance. Sounds like a tragic romance novel doesn't it?" A sad grin broke out across Michael's face before he finished the rest of the glass.
"Can I get the lovely couple anything else?" The waitress had impeccable timing.
"The check please. I believe I'm treating my darling date." The empty wine glass was set down. "I'll be sure to leave a big tip for such, lovely, service."
AngelDellaNotte
06-05-2017, 09:41 PM
Ashira listened to Michael talk about his lost love unable to help but notice the similarities between her own past, though her story wasn't as tragic as Michael's story. He finished his glass of wine and she reached across the table resting her hand on top of his with a sad smile on her face. Before she could say anything Clarissa returned to check on them and Michael asked for the bill. “Oh no desert?” Clarissa asked seeming like she wanted them to stay a little longer.
“Not tonight, thank you though.” Ashira said, thinking they should head back to the ship and get going again. It was quite possible someone outside the restaurant had seen her and word of her visit was spreading. “As my love said, we'll take the check please.”
“I see.” Clarissa said, nervously. Lawrence had instructed her to stall the couple for as long as she could. She didn't know why but had a feeling this meant a lot to Lawrence and her job could be riding on it. He had also said that the Princess' meal had been comped. “Mr. Lawrence wanted me to inform you that your meal is on the house tonight.”
“Oh that isn't necessary.” Ashira said, she never really liked taking things for free knowing that people worked hard and she was fortunate enough to be beyond well off.
“Mr. Lawrence insists.” Clarissa said, recalling another instruction Lawrence had given her. He had told her to inform the Princess that a crowd had formed outside. Clarissa knew this wasn't true but for some reason Lawrence wanted them to exit through the back. Why was a mystery to her. “Unfortunately, a large crowd has formed out front. I believe someone must have seen you come inside. Though Mr. Lawrence wanted me to let you know that you know that you can exit through the back door. If you would follow me this way.”
Ashira nodded and stood to follow the waitress but before she did she reached into her pocket pulling out a few credits and dropping them on the table. It was almost half the cost of the meal, their drinks excluded and far more of a tip than needed but Ashira felt it was the right thing to do. They followed Clarissa through the kitchen and to a hallway that lead to the back alley. Once they were in the middle of the hallway a group of men in black uniforms stepped out of an office blocking their exit and each of them holding a gun. Ashira turned to go back the way she had just come but it too was blocked by similar men. She heard the back door slam open as if it had been kicked in then a couple gun shots go off. Two of the men blocking their exit dropped to the ground allowing Ashira to see Lilian holding a smoking gun. “Princess it's a trap!” Lilian shouted.
Ushima
06-06-2017, 04:11 PM
Michael couldn't help the heat that flooded his body when Ashira took hold of his hand. It rushed up his arm and hit his face. Michael looked away, back over at the sea so hopefully Ashira wouldn't see. It had been awhile since he felt that type of feeling, even if she didn't mean anything by it more than a comforting touch. Clarissa was having a back and forth with Ashira about the check which Michael turned his head to watch. Apparently their meal was on the house. Michael didn't care either way. The Yoran Government gave him a spending account for their time in Yoran Space. Likewise his own people gave him one as well for when they got to the Arturian Cluster, but that was back in the ship safely tucked away. Eventually the discussion ended and they were leaving, to be lead out the back due to a large crowd. Someone probably let it slip the princess was here with someone and paparazzi had gathered to snap a photo.
That'd be some article. 'Princess steps out with enemy'. It'd sell that's for sure despite how false it was. But no one reads those trashy gossip articles for the truth anyway. So with the payment settled the two patrons stood from their table. Ashira let go of his hand which made Michael miss the contact almost instantly. Clarissa led them through the kitchen and into the back hallways. But it was blocked by men in black uniforms. Michael went on alert. Non-aerial combat wasn't his specialty so if anything happened he needed to be at the top of his game to compensate. Ashira turned to go back the other way but more men moved in. Then the shooting started. “Princess it's a trap!”
One of the men struck out at Ashira, reaching to grab her arm. The pilot wasn't as versed in hand to hand as others but he knew enough to last a bit. Michael intercepted and caught his arm and spun, tossing him over his shoulder. The darkly dressed man hit the ground hard but Michael didn't let go. Instead holding on with his left hand and stepping on his shoulder with his left leg. Reaching behind him Michael drew his sidearm. "And here I was going to give this place a fantastic five star review. This definitely drops it down to a two." He pointed his gun at the man on the ground. "Stay." Letting go he backed up, pressing his back against Ashira. "I believe we should leave." Michael didn't take his gun off the men as they moved toward the back door, he kept himself in front of Ashira, blocking her from the remaining men.
AngelDellaNotte
06-10-2017, 04:49 AM
When the man reached out for Ashira she froze, she had been through basic combat training but had never used it outside of a training. Thankfully Michael acted grabbing the man and throwing him to the ground. He then encouraged her to leave making a joke about his review of the restaurant. She didn’t snap out of it until he backed into her. Ashira turned to leave seeing Lilian struggling with another one of the men. The body guard fought with the man a bit then kicked him back before shooting him. Blood splattered up on Ashira but she kept moving, pausing only to pick up one of the fallen men’s guns (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/f5/43/c5/f543c5a1b6a63a6daa467e0a7d1cb46a.jpg). Her body guard after shooting the last of the men took point guiding them out of the restaurant. Once they were outside Ashira looked around seeing a black van pull up to the curb and a number of similarly dressed men jump out with guns.
Lilian let off another few shots at them, seeming far more willing to kill than Michael. “Down the alley now! I’ll hold them off.” Lilian instructed as she continued shooting. Ashira nodded though she didn’t want to leave her body guard but knowing she had to get to safety. She ran down the alley knowing Michael was right behind her.
Ushima
06-11-2017, 06:52 AM
Michael followed Ashira down the alley. "Go go!" He urged her on as they ran. The pilot led her in seemingly random directions to loose any tail that might be on them. "This way across the street!" Michael grabbed the Princess' hand as they ran into the open. Cars honked as they past. A man was entering a shop across the street and Michael forced him inside. "Hey mind if we browse a bit? My date and I are shopping thank you!"
"What do you think you're doing!?" The man shouted.
"Weren't you paying attention?" Michael shut the door behind them and locked it. To his right was a large window and Michael quickly shut the curtains.
The shop keeper wasn't swayed by Michael's attempts at deflection. "I want you out of my shop this instant."
The Arturian pressed his left side against the wall, peaking out from behind the curtains to watch the street for any approaching enemies. "Not gonna happen pops." From underneath Michael's right arm the barrel of the gun appeared. "We kinda have some important shit going on right now. Sit tight and we'll be outta your hair soon. Promise."
"Dear? What's going on?" From the back of the store a woman came out with her teenaged son and daughter.
"Oh what is this a mom and pop tailor shop on a resort?" Michael asked, not expecting any real response. "All of you get in the corner."
"Do you want money?" The wife asked.
"I want you all to be quiet a moment while I keep watch." It was evident Michael was getting frustrated. Not surprising as they were ambushed not even five minutes ago.
It was silent a moment, until the shop keeper spoke up again. "You're an Arturian."
Michael tore his gaze away from the window to look at his right arm. The bandage was missing. "Shit." Thinking back to when he could've lost it the obvious came to his mind. When he threw their ambusher. The man must've brushed across his upper arm. Michael was too busy fighting, adrenalin pumping through him, to notice. He glanced at Ashira, hoping she'd take over talking while they waited out their pursuers.
AngelDellaNotte
06-19-2017, 03:34 AM
She was out numbered by the men in the van but it seemed they were caught a little off guard not expecting the first group to fail in capturing the Princess or excepting to have more than one bodyguard. Lilian was currently taking cover behind a dumpster that had already been pounded with bullets. She had her our pistol but the magazine was empty and it was her last one. Luckily for her she had managed to pick up one of the fallen attacker's rifle. Originally she had counted seven men coming out of the van, she had managed to take out three of them. Ducking around the dumpster she let off a few shots managing to hit another two of the men. Unfortunately one of them clipped her in the shoulder. The shot went straight through and didn't hit anything vital but that didn't mean it hurt any less. Switching the rifle to her left hand she let out another couple shots, she didn't know if she actually hit anyone as it was just cover fire giving her a chance to run.
Lilian bolted down the alley heading away from the restaurant trying to think where Ashira and Micheal had run. She worried that whoever these men were might have someone waiting for them at the ship. The pain from her shoulder was throbbing and running wasn't helping any. She twisted and turned trying her best to loose the men and hoping she was leading them away from whichever direction Ashira ran. Finally after a few minutes of running she had a good feeling she had lost the attackers. She sat down in the doorstep in an alley to look at her shoulder, there was little she could do for it now. Lilian looked down at her wrist summoning the holopad and hoping for once Ashira would actually check her messages.
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Ashira could see Micheal wasn't getting anywhere with the shop keepers who upon discovering he was Arturian looked terrified, and why wouldn't they? The Yoran Empire was at war with them and had been for as long as anyone could remember. Parents told stories to their children about the evil Arturian. Ashira had mostly been looking out the window to see if they had been followed but she turned toward the family taking Micheal's queue to take over the diplomacy. “We mean you no harm.” Ashira said, holding her hands out forgetting for a moment that she had the rifle in her hand. Quickly she shoved it to Micheal.
When the wife finally stopped focusing on Micheal and rifle she looked to Ashira finally seeing who she was. “He's kidnapping the princess!” She said, jumping to the most logical explanation. Ashira was the crowned princess of the Yoran Empire she was known just as well as the Empress and Prince. Her son seemed to find an ounce of bravery in him as he charged at Micheal. His father had a little more common sense realizing that Micheal had the guns and grabbed the boy holding them back.
“No, I'm not being kidnapped. I give you my word. I am on a mission with this Arturian soldier. I can't give details but it is very important. Please we just ask for a shelter for a little while.” Ashira said, stepping between Micheal and the family. The family didn't respond to her but seemed to believe the princess holding their ground and not making any move toward them. Ashira turned back to Micheal looking out the window. “Gods I hope Lilian is okay.” Ashira said, leaning against the wall not noticing her bracelet was blinking.
Ushima
06-20-2017, 04:45 AM
Michael smirked. "That girl has some fire. Bet those bastards wish they hadn't picked a fight now."
"Language please." Michael looked over at the woman who had here hand's over her children's ears. The boy looked annoyed which Michael could relate too. His mother was the same way, trying to keep foul things away even when he was way past the age where he could comprehend it on his own. "Crass Arturian barbarians."
"Only the fun ones." Michael peaked out the window again. "Oh what's this." Two hovercycles (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/fb/c0/32/fbc0324bcb8df161670861ffec9cfe90.jpg) landed on the street. "They seem to split off into teams." The rider on the right got off but the left stayed on for a moment, fiddling with the vehicle. "One seems to be malfunctioning. If the agitated body language is anything to go by." Frustrated head shakes and throwing up of the arms. The rider even kicked the frame as he got off. "Well now I know which one we're taking."
"You mean you'll be leaving soon?" The shop owner asked, interrupting Michael's planning.
"Look mister..."
The man seemed hesitant to give his name to an Arturian but figured it was better than being called hey you all the time. "Arander."
"We'll be out of here as soon as we get some information out of these two fools." Michael gestured outside. "They're going door to door. No doubt asking about you your highness. Guess our date really is over huh?" Michael winked at her. The teens didn't seem to pick up on his sarcasm and gave Ashira a strange look. "Pick up that weapon and get the mother and children in the back. Once I've taken out the first one pop out and help me get the upper hand on the other." Michael positioned himself behind the door. "And stop your wrist from blinking."
The minutes ticked by as Michael waited for the inevitable knock on the door. Arander stood by to open the door. "Can I ask you a question?" The shop keep asked the pilot.
Michael sighed. "Might as well since we've got nothing to do while we wait.
Arander hesitated a moment, as if he was second guessing his question. "How did an Arturian make it this far into our system?"
"Guess news hasn't reached you guys yet." Michael chuckled. "There's a cease fire in effect right now. All military operations are on hold. Well...except this one, I should say."
Arander asked another question. "Is the war ending?"
"Depends on our girl back there." Michael was going to say more when the knock finally came. Arander went to answer but Michael held up his hand to stop him. It would be suspicious if the door opened right away after a knock. So the pilot counted down from five on his fingers and gave the signal to open the door.
Arander opened the door. "Yes? Can I help you gentlemen?"
The first one to speak was a woman. "My name is Inquisitor Velenora. This is Deputy Inquisitor Moorgoth. We're under orders to search stores for possible criminals hiding out. Here are our orders, straight from the top." Velenora handed Arander a data pad.
"Well come on in then." Arander stood aside and let the two enter.
Michael was hidden from view behind the door. Velenora entered, the Moorgoth. Arander shut the door. Michael sprung into action. Striking quickly he hit Moorgoth in the back of his head, sending the Deputy to the ground. Velenora turned, drawing her weapon. Michael aimed his gun at her. "I don't think you have the advantage here. Now there's someone who wants to ask you a couple questions."
AngelDellaNotte
06-27-2017, 05:10 AM
Ashira shrugged to the two teenagers when they looked over to after the comment about the date. She could see in the girl’s eyes she already was drawing up some romantic story in her mind, something right out of the pages of a romance novel. After Michael laid out the plan she ushered the mom and her two kids into the back room and stood at the door. She had taken the rifle back from Michael and stood just in the doorway. Ashira looked down at her bracelet bring up the message from Lillian and quickly sending one back with just the name of the shop hoping Lilian would be able to figure it out. She then leaned against the door listening when Arander opened the door, and the two Inquisitors entered. She saw him take out the first then the second pulled a gun on him but neither fired.
"I don't think you have the advantage here. Now there's someone who wants to ask you a couple questions." Michael said, the two of them in a standoff.
“I beg to differ.” Velenora said, not taking her eyes off of him or lowing her gun. “I’ve got armor on. It could absorb your shot, I doubt your shirt will off you much protection. “
“I doubt your armor would stand up to a rifle blast.” Ashira said, coming out of the back room with the gun aimed at the Inquisitor. “I imagine you have orders to take me alive so you won’t be shooting me.”
“Still nothing to stop me from shooting him and taking my chance you don’t know how to shoot that.” Velenora said, “Lower your gun and surrender yourself. Princess you are under arrest for high treason against the crown.”
“High treason?” Ashira said, confused. “I am direct orders from the Empress herself.” She walked closer to the inquisitor keeping the rifle aimed on her.
“You won’t shoot. I am going to give you to the count of three to lower your gun and surrender then I shot the Arturian.” Velenora said, “One, two….” The inquisitor didn’t get a chance to finish counting as she dropped to the ground clutching her leg.
“Three.” Ashira said, moving toward the inquisitor and kicking her gun away. “Guess I do know how to use it.”
Ushima
06-28-2017, 04:14 AM
"Ah shit that probably attracted way too much attention. Get me a towel." Michael moved quickly. He crouched next to Velenora as Arander got what was requested. "It's not fatal just keep some pressure on it." He reached into both Velenora's and Moorgoth's uniforms, retrieving their communication devices. Standing back up he dropped them on the ground, stomping on them with his foot. "I can't stop them from using your comm lines but this will stop them from getting a direct line to their HQ. Give us ten minutes and you can call medics, if that shot didn't get the authorities on our ass." The Arturian holstered his gun. "We'll be leaving now. Sorry for the inconvenience folks." Reaching over Michael grabbed Ashira's hand. "Let's go."
The unlikely duo left the shop and Michael was leading them toward the Hoverbikes. "So they think you're committing high treason?" Michael sat on the bike he knew was working fine. "I knew there was a reason I liked you. Ha! Clearly someone not in your ma's inner circle got word of our arrival and jumped to conclusions. I recommend finding Lillian and getting the hell out of here." The Arturian put on one of the helmets then handed Ashira the other. "Trade ya." He took the rifle from her and turned in on the other bike. Putting it on full auto he emptied the gun into it. "Just in case Moorgoth wakes up and decide to give chase." Tossing the spent weapon aside he started the bike. "Hang on." The Arturian took off down the streets leaving the scene behind.
AngelDellaNotte
07-05-2017, 09:30 PM
Ashira had never rode on a hoverbike before and didn't expect her first time to be with an Arturian soldier fleeing from inquisitors who thought she was committing treason. She held tight to Micheal's waist as he sped through the streets. “Lillian says she right around the corner, in the alley.” Ashira said, pointing around his shoulder. They pulled into the alley seeing Lillian leaning against the door frame of one of the buildings. Ashira could see that Lillian had a torn piece of her shirt wrapped around her shoulder with blood soaking through it. The moment the hoverbike came to a stop Ashira jumped off and ran over her. “Lillian!” Ashira said, taking her scarf and wrapping it around the wound again.
“I'm fine. We need to get out of here.” Lillian said, standing a little uneasy on her feet. Ashira helped steady her. “They've sent inquisitors after us. I don't know what they are after.”
“Me, they think I've committed high treason.” Ashira said, holding her hand to the wound and looking around the three of them wouldn't fit on the hoverbike and they needed to get back to the ship. “My mother has long suspected an Arturian infiltrators or sympathizers in the Yoran government. They have been leading the push for over throwing the royal family. But I think she has been looking in the wrong direction. I don't think they are after overthrowing the government, I think it is much simpler than that. War is very profitable for the right people. I think it is their goal to keep this war going.” Ashira said, looking to the end of the alley seeing several soldiers run by the alley, thankfully not looking down it. They seemed to be moving with a purpose no doubt heading to the tailor shop they had been hiding out in. “We can talk about this more later but need to get off world now.”
Ushima
07-07-2017, 03:23 AM
"That's one possibility." Michael said from his spot sitting comfortably on the hoverbike. "We can only theorize at this point. Yoran defectors trying to earn their place by taking out royalty or high profile players we have no way of knowing." There was money to be made during war. Anyone who owned a mining operations stood to make serious bank selling the resources. Ships and weapons required lots of materials. Ships and other vehicles also needed fuel. The list of profitable fields went on and on. "But you're right we need to focus on getting off world. I can practically guarantee our ship is being watched. So here's there. Lillian since you're wounded, and Ashira is way to valuable, I'll pull any watchers off the hotel. What I need you two to do is get on the ship and fire it up for me. I'll double back after a couple minutes and join you then we'll take off before they catch up." Michael revved the hoverbike. "I'll go set up down the street. We start in ten minutes." The Arturian left the alley and rode down the street toward their hotel, or what was supposed to be their hotel for the night. Michael was a little depressed that they couldn't spend the night here now. He really wanted to see what this place had to offer.
Michael posted up down the street in another alley as he counted down. Ten minutes. Ten minutes for Ashira and Lillian to get ready to move on the ship. It was a risky plan on his part. Rushing out there in front of everyone being the distraction. "Oh well." Michael sighed as he strapped on his helmet. "Someone's gotta do it. Might as well be the expendable pilot."
The guards on the street heard the hoverbike before they saw the rider. "All units converge!"
"Catch me if you can losers!" Michael laughed, speeding off in front of guards. They gave chase to the Arturian as he led them through the nearly empty streets. Michael was thankful it was late in the evening. The resort didn't have many vehicles as it is and being evening lowered the amount even more. He charged up the streets and took corners sharply in his attempt to lead his pursuers on a wild goose chase. "Is that the best you Yorans can do!? Huh!?" Michael kept a good distance for the duration and quickly steered back towards the hotel. "On my way girls just a bit longer. We're almost out of here." He said to himself as he stepped hard on the peddle.
AngelDellaNotte
07-10-2017, 11:59 PM
The two of them moved quietly to the docks where they noticed their ship surrounded by a group of guards. There were about nine of them but what drew Ashira's attention most was the locking clamp that had been placed on the ship securing it to the dock. It had been bolted against one of the landing struts and secured to the deck. They probably could get to the ship start it up but take off would be impossible with it on. Ashira looked down at her watch, Micheal would be causing his distraction any moment now, she would need to figure this out and quick. Scanning the soldiers around their ship Ashira noticed one of them appeared to be an officer and had a large key ring on his belt. She could only hope that the key to the deck clamp was on that ring.
It happened then, Ashira heard the rev of the hoverbike's engine and then the call for reinforcements over the radio. The officer looked to his soldiers pointed to five them then started running towards the city. Damnit they needed that key. “Lillian take out the guards at the ship I'm gonna get that key.” Ashira said, then without giving Lillian a chance to argue ran off after the officer and his five guards. She knew Lillian was more suited to retrieve the key but with her injury she didn't know if she would be able to or not. She hadn't made it far from the docks when she heard several shots go off. Judging by the lack of return fire Lillian had gotten the drop on them, her marksmanship showing even with having to use her off hand.
Sprinting after the officer Ashira realized she was in luck as the officer wasn't able to keep up with his men. He was lagging behind them allowing Ashira to approach him alone. She drew her gun and fired two shots both of them missing. She wasn't a bad shot on the range where the target wasn't moving and she was stationary. With her in motion and a moving target she was a horrible shot. The sound of gunfire caught the officer's attention though and he spun around. “Princess you are under arrest.” He shouted at her, his weapon aimed her her. “Drop your weapon and surrender.”
Ashira had already figured out that orders had been given to take her alive so she wasn't in a lot of danger. She dropped her gun and raised her hands in the air. To make the officer feel a little more at ease she kicked the weapon away from her. Slowly he moved toward her taking a pair of cuffs from his belt. When he was a few feet away he tossed the cuffs to Ashira ordering her to put them on. Following his instructions she did as she was told. The officer then holstered his gun moving to his radio to call in that he had captured the princess but he never got a chance to as Ashira rushed at him. He was caught off guard and her double handed punch hit him squarely in the jaw knocking him to the ground. Ashira quickly grabbed the gun she had kicked toward him and had it pressed to his head stopping any resistance he may give. She struck the officer in the head with the butt of her gun then reached for his keys taking them and running back to the ship.
She didn't waste time looking for the handcuff key instead fumbled for the deck clamp key. Thankfully it was on the ring and she was able to remove the clamp from the ship. Lillian stood at the ramp of the ship keeping watch and looking at Ashira strangely wondering how she got put in handcuffs. “Don't ask let's just say it worked.” Ashira said, moving into the ship. Lillian had already started up the ship and they were just waiting for Micheal to return. Hopefully he made it, neither Ashira or Lillian knew how to fly this ship though if the worst came she hoped they could figure it out. While waiting Ashira flipped through the key ring trying to find the handcuff key and discovering that there wasn't one on the ring. “Seriously?” She asked aloud.
Ushima
07-11-2017, 08:25 PM
Michael could see the startled faces of his pursuers as he speed towards them on his hoverbike. The panicked and swerved out of the way. "I never have lost a game of chicken." Chuckling he rode toward the hotel. The Yorans were quick to recover though and soon were back on his tail, though not as close as before. "That the best you got!?" Michael yelled over his shoulder. He immediately regretted it as a sharp pain burst through his leg. Glancing down he saw he had been nicked by a bullet. They were opening fire on him. "Shit!" He knew he wasn't in immediate danger from the wound, it was just a graze. But it did prevent a new problem. Michael no longer had time to ditch the bike and run down the dock to the ship. "Oh I hope that hotel is insured."
The late night worker in the lobby had no idea how exciting their night was going to be. Most thought it would be another boring shift to get through. What they didn't expect would be an Arturian driving in through door and past their lobby. Michael lost control of the bike a little after going through the entryway and ended up towards the stairs. "Can't double back!" So up the stairs he went and down the hallway. "Balcony here I come!" Stepping on the accelerator Michael burst through the glass doorway of the second floor balcony and launched the hoverbike off it. He landed hard, the frame bouncing off the ground before remaining airborne. "Hope you saw that show princess cause you're not getting a repeat performance!"
The hoverbike zoomed down the dock. Behind him his pursuers were just emerging out the back. But Michael was already halfway down. When he got to the section where the docks split into the four landing pads Michael dumped the bike. It skid on it's side and fell into the water. Michael was deposited onto the ground and rolled a few times. Recovering quickly he pushed himself up and ran, as best as he could with the pain shooting through his leg. Ascending the stairs as fast as he could he joined the other two in the pilot seat. "Hope I didn't keep you two lovely ladies waiting!" Michael sat in the pilot seat and only then did he look up at the gathered authorities. "Seems I attracted a bit of attention. Tends to happen wherever I go."
A voice cut through their radio. "Arturian vessel! You do not have permission to leave!"
Michael pressed a button on the ship's comm. "Yeah!? Well I ain't asking!!" After shutting off his mic he hit another button.
'Weapons locked'
There was a burst of fire from their ship that hit the dock causing it to break. "Reach us now assholes." Michael fired up the engines and started to lift off.
'Aircraft inbound. Atmospheric fighters.'
"Oh my fucking god I was kidding!" Michael flipped a few switches. "Buckle up and hang on! This is going to be close! Thankfully those aren't star fighters." He pointed the ship skyward and took off all the while praying a resort planet didn't have orbital defenses or a fleet of ships waiting for them.
'Seeker EMP missile inbound.'
"Launching flares!" A burst of orange light from the back of the ship caught the weapon's attention and it went off course before exploding. "Breaking atmosphere it ten seconds. Eight. Seven. Six. Five. Four. Three. Two." The ship rocked as it hit the last barrier and entered space. "Scanning for ships...nothing. We're good." Michael punch in new coordinates and set the ship off on auto-pilot.
'Artificial gravity engaged. You are clear to move about the cabin.'
Michael turned his chair around to face the others. "Well that was fun." He unbuckled himself from the chair and stood, buckling a little as the wound on his leg still hurt. By now a small pool of blood was forming and his pant leg, just below his knee, was dark and damp with blood. "I should probably take care of this." As he moved to go to the crew quarters to get a first aid kit, which he would also offer Lillian to use, he stopped next to the princess. Michael put a hand on her shoulder and looked down at her. "Best and worst date I've ever been on." He gave her a cheery smirk and continued on his way to clean his wound.
AngelDellaNotte
07-12-2017, 08:54 PM
A chuckle came from her mouth at Micheal's comment, it definitely was the most interesting date she had been on. Lillian on the other hand merely shook her and clicked her tongue before standing up and walking to the back after the pilot. She found him in the back with the first aid kit where she took her shirt off leaving her only in a bra. The wound had been a through and through, Lillian struggled to tend to it herself. Ashira came into the cabin and took the tube of healing gel from her. “Here let me help you with that.” Ashira said, shifting the tube in her hands, struggling a little to open it with her hands still cuff. After tending to Lillian and Micheal's wounds she would have to see if she could find something to cut these off.
“Are you sure you hand handle it.” Lillian chuckled as she held her hands up mimicking the restraints on Ashira.
“This might hurt a bit.” She said, then pressed the tube to the wound and squeezed the gel into it until it came out the other side. Lillian let out a hiss of pain as the gel cauterized the wound. Reaching into the first aid Ashira pulled out a pair of cling bandages. She opened them and pressed one to each side of the wound sealing it off.
Ashira turned to Micheal seeing him tending to his own wound. “Do you need any help?”
Ushima
07-13-2017, 04:45 AM
Michael pulled down his flight suit. It was basically a onesie so he couldn't pull the leg up to tend his wound. So removing it was his only option. That left Michael standing in the crew quarters in just a pair of black military issue briefs and his t-shirt. Michael hissed as the fabric slid past his leg and off, pooling around his feet. It did have the benefit of wiping his leg of some of the blood. Picking the flight suit up he tossed it in the laundry bin off to the side. "Damn bullets ruining the structural integrity of my suit." After his ruined suit was stored away he moved to the first aid kit. "Excuse me." He reached between two women and grabbed what he needed. "Seems you're overdressed princess." Michael made light of his and Lillian's state of dress. Or lack there of in this case. With equipment in hand he returned to his bunk and sat down on it.
"Do you need any help?"
The princess' voice caught his attention and he looked up. Michael gave her a reassuring smile. "Don't worry yourself too much over me your majesty. It's just a flesh wound. Hurts but that's going away." Taking disinfectant he cleaned the large cut. The pilot grunted as the pain came back three fold. "If it burns you know its working right?" With a few strained chuckles Michael applied a bandage to his leg. "There it will be better in a day or so. No pain in a couple hours." Then he saw it. The perfect bait right in front of him. Two silver brackets and a chain. An amused, and slightly perverted grin spread across his face. He couldn't resist. "Oh what's this? Me in my underwear and a pretty princess restrained in front of me? Lilian did you read my diary? Is it my birthday and I forgot and no one has told me yet?"
AngelDellaNotte
07-13-2017, 06:18 AM
“Need I remind you this princess is engage to your prince? Surely you wouldn't want to commit treason.” Lillian said, reaching into her bag and pulling out a fresh shirt out. She winced a bit as the shirt brushed against her wound. “Besides she's out of your league.”
Ashira couldn't help but notice the tension between her bodyguard and the pilot. They were just playing around, blowing off a little steam in tough situation. One that seemed to be getting tougher with each moment. “Lillian, would you mind going down to the cargo bay and seeing if you can find something to cut these off?” Ashira asked holding her hands up.
“As you wish your highness.” Lillian said, shooting Micheal a glare then leaving the room.
Lillian had barely made it out of the room before Ashira started busting up laughing. It took a few moments for her to compose herself. “Don't mind Lillian, she takes her duties very seriously.” Ashira said, moving closer to Micheal. When she was mere inches away from him she hooked the cuffs around his neck and whispered in his ear. “I'm not used to being the one tied up.” As quickly as she had moved in front of him she pulled away walking across the room wondering if she had caused the pilot to blush but didn't turn around.
Ushima
07-13-2017, 03:22 PM
"Why not? According to the people on that planet we've already committed treason." Michael laughed as he watched Lilian open the door to the cargo bay. "There should be some bolt cutters and some other equipment in the back." Once the bodyguard was gone Ashira started laughing. "Well now that the stick in the mud is gone."
“Don't mind Lillian, she takes her duties very seriously.”
Michael waved off her comment. "It's ok I'm used to it. A lot of my superiors were up tight by the book officers. Eventually she'll warm up to my charm and sense of humor. Just takes time. Plus being Arturian doesn't help matters." It would take some getting used to. Even though there was a cease fire right now didn't mean things weren't still hot and it's not like tension won't go away after the treaties were signed on the day of the wedding.
Next thing he knew the princess was standing in front of him. Her arms were behind his head and the metal chain was cool on his skin. She pulled him closer so she could lean in. “I'm not used to being the one tied up.” Then she let him go and turned around.
Michael was sure his face had darkened a bit. "Role reversal for ya huh? I can dig that." Standing up from his bunk Michael opened a storage locker. "Nothing wrong with new experiences though. Who knows you might like it." The pilot pulled out a new flight suit and put it on, zipping it up halfway again like before. His boots quickly followed and were laced up quickly. Michael could hear Lilian walking back. He stretched, joints popping, before walking back towards the cockpit. As he pass Ashira he said allowed. "Just so you know my safe word is keep going." He shot the princess a wink before retaking his seat in the pilot's chair.
AngelDellaNotte
07-18-2017, 10:04 PM
The bodyguard came back with a pair of bolt cutters and a hack saw, she clicked her tongue at the pilot as he walked back. “You are getting too familiar with him.” Lillian said, motioning for Ashira to hold out her hands. She set the hack saw down on a table and then took the bolt cutters snipping apart the chain on the cuffs. “Aside from the ultimate goal of this trip being to marry his prince whatever this is that you have going with him can never be.”
“I have nothing going with him except having a little fun.” Ashira said, not all sure what Lillian was implying. She stretched her arms out wide then shook them glad to have the ability to move them again.
“A little fun could jeopardize this entire treaty.” Lillian said, taking Ashira's right hand and setting it on the table before slowly cutting at the cuff with the hack saw so as to not cut Ashira.
“It isn't like we are living in a medieval society, nobody expects me to be chaste. If they did we are already screwed.” Ashira said, feeling a little annoyed by this conversation. Lillian cut through enough of the cuff to bend the metal breaking it and pull off the cuff. “Besides I have no intention of sleeping with him. Even if I did it is none of your business.” With a growl she stood up walking away from the bodyguard toward the cockpit and sitting down next to Michael leaving Lillian in the back and one cuff still on her wrist.
Ushima
07-19-2017, 04:00 AM
Michael brought up the galaxy map on a screen to his right after Ashira took a seat next to him. "Next check point is at Aquaris Station. It's your typical run of the mill space port. Ever hear of it? What about you Lilian? Ever been to Aquaris Station?" He hit a button so the map appeared on a screen in front of Ashira. "There we can restock and refuel. Maybe even get some proper meals." Michael glanced at his other displays before going back to map. "The only slight problem we'll have is that we have to navigate our way through a massive asteroid belt that's halfway between us and safe port. We'll reach it in about three hours at this pace." The Arturian leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms behind his head. "Now I can get us through no problem other than being slow goings through the field. It'll add an additional hour and a half flight time." Reaching over Michael flicked on radio, the cabin filling with music as the pilot settled for the journey.
~
After a calm three hour flight listening to some of his favorite tunes and talking to his two travelling companions the computer beeped. It was the signal that they were approaching the asteroid field. "Whoa that thing is massive." Michael had spent a fair bit of time in asteroid fields before. There was one in the Arturian System that he like to fly in recreationally. He and some buddies racing, weaving their ships around the asteroids. It was exciting especially at the speeds they pushed. "Computer disengage auto-pilot."
'Auto-pilot disengaged'
Michael sat up straight and grabbed the controls. "Thrusters all in the green. Shields at a hundred percent. We won't need them but doesn't hurt to check." The ship moved forward and entered the asteroid. "We're just going to take this calmly. No need for anything fancy ok?" Now wasn't a time to show off his piloting skills even though his fingers were itching to push the throttle hard and pull of some insane maneuvers. "Scanners working good. Tracking all objects. No unusual patterns. Sit back ladies it's going to be a long boring ride through nothing."
AngelDellaNotte
07-26-2017, 01:23 AM
Sitting in the chair next to Michael Ashira hadn't really said anything. She was still upset about what Lillian had been implying. She wasn't thrilled to be traveling across the galaxy to marry a complete stranger who had been her enemy longer than either of them had been alive. But she wasn't about to jeopardize the treaty by having a fling with their pilot despite him being quite handsome and charming. She liked the way how he didn't dance around her simply because she a royal. It was very rare that she found someone who treated her like a normal person.
As the entered the asteroid field Lillian stayed in the back giving Ashira her space even if she didn't like that she was spending more time with Michael. Ashira looked at the field amazed that he could fly through it. Arturia really had sent their best. Whether or not she had been to the Aquarius Station was a matter of opinion. She supposed technically she had been there but she had never left her own ship. It was a station that they often used to refill but the imperial security detail always felt it was best for her not to board the station, for her own safety.
The field was another strange thing, she had never traveled through one either. Usually the ships she traveled on were too large and once again it was safer to travel around even if it greatly increased their travel time. She watched out the window as Michael navigated through the field, without really realizing it she found herself clinching the armrest of her seat. So many times they came so close to a asteroid that she was sure they would hit but each time Michael managed to avoid it. She wanted to say something about his flying ability yet at the same time she didn't want to distract him.
Ushima
07-26-2017, 10:44 PM
They were flying for forty minutes and tension between the two woman on the ship was noticeable but Michael knew better than to comment on it. Instead he focused on flying the ship through the asteroid field. It was a very sketchy flight. Some asteroids would get within inches of the hull as Michael skillfully steered the ship around the annoying space rocks. Michael let out a breath as one passed in front of the hull as they passed by. Glancing at his sensors, a holographic image of the ship, two red dots were trailing by the engine. "Man she's thick. They gave me one with a fat ass. It's times like these I miss my sleek fighter."
'Anomaly detected'
"The fuck." Michael pulled up a map of the area. Coming up from behind them were three dots. "Asteroids don't move like. Hang on!" The engines flared and pushed the ship faster. "Oh we should not be doing this speed in here." It was taking all he had to dodge the asteroids. Flashes of green soared past the canopy. "And they're firing at us."
'Analysis of their offensive capabilities shows ion based weaponry'
"Ion!? Shit those are stun weapons. Which can only mean one thing." Michael put the ship into a small dive to avoid a larger asteroid. "Space Pirates!"
The radio cracked a little as someone was trying to force a message through their comms. "Kill your engines, lower your shields and prepare to be boarded."
"How's about you kiss my ass!" Michael killed the radio and rolled the ship past some floating debris. One of the ships tried to follow but clipped his wing on an asteroid and spun out into a larger one, crashing. "One down." More fire came at them and Michael swerved the ship. "I know you're both not going to like what I'm about to do next. But I'm doing it anyway so clench up." Ahead of them two large asteroids were closing in on each other and Michael aimed the ship right at the narrowing space. He turned the ship to the side. It was a tight squeeze, the bottom of the ship scraping the asteroid at the end, but they made it through. One pirate ship was destroyed the other vanished from the sensors only for five more to appear in front of them. "Shit. Changing tactics. Five versus one in a cargo fighter with shit tier weapons and unknown amount of reinforcements? Not happening." Michael landed the ship on the back of another large asteroid. He killed the engines and all non-essential systems. "Nobody make a sound. Anything over a very quiet whisper could give us away." The Arturian had started to break out in a sweat as he gripped the controls, ready to move on a moments notice. Eyeing the map was all they could do as they waited for the red dots that represented enemy ships to disappear.
Five minutes passed as they were sitting there waiting until the sound of metal on metal was heard. Michael turned around to see four metal javelin shaped metal points had pierced the hull. "The fuck!? They have a stealth ship! Those were just the bait! Where do pirated get their hands on that kind of tech!?" Michael then remembered these weren't the Space Pirates he was used to. Arturian bands of Pirates wouldn't have stealth capabilities but he had no first hand experience with Yoran's pirates. Suddenly the metal points opened and sealed the holes they had just created. If that wasn't bad enough gas started pumping into the ship. Michael covered his mouth but it wasn't long before he fell unconscious, slumping to the floor.
AngelDellaNotte
07-28-2017, 09:08 PM
Ashira woke up laying on a cold hard surface, her head was foggy. It took her a few minutes to get her surroundings and push herself up into a sitting position. She didn't know where she was but knew she wasn't on their ship. Her first thought was that the soldiers that had attacked them on Haroni had caught them. Though as the fog in her mind cleared she recalled Michael saying something about pirates. She had never encountered pirates they knew better than to attack a royal vessel but they hadn't been in a royal ship. They were in a cargo ship with Arturian markings. It was a perfect target for pirates.
Most Yoran pirates were bands of people with thrown together ships and fleets. Though there was one exception, the Valkyrie Raiders. They were probably the most advanced pirates in the system. Their fleet was quite large. Unlike most pirates that stripped a ship of their cargo the Valkyrie Raiders took the whole ship leaving the crew stranded on the nearest planet or in an escape pod. Often they took the crew from the ships they attacked as their own.
She wasn't sure what was going to happen to them, the Valkyrie Raiders weren't really known for taking hostages and ransoming them. It was far too much of a risk. There was no good cargo on their ship with the exception of her. But would they want to take the risk of ransoming a princess? Would they try to ransom her back to the royal family or someone else? There were just too many questions Ashira didn't know the answer to.
Ashira stood up and looked around, she was in a cell (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/e6/33/22/e633229f1103aa1e057abbd7264f4d59.jpg) of some sort. It mostly was just a silver room with nothing but her in it. There were three walls in the room and where the forth one should have been was empty. She slowly walked over to it stopping where it looked like the wall should have been and held her hand out. She felt a light shock and a neon blue field appeared around her hand. It was a force field holding her in. Ashira pulled her hand away and looked out being careful not to touch the force field. Across from her in cells similar to herself she could see Lillian and Michael.
Ushima
07-29-2017, 03:37 AM
Michael groaned as he slowly started to wake up. "Ugh please tell me that was just a bad dream?" Cautiously he started to get up. "Please tell me I'm still on the ship with the hot princess and her grouchy bodyguard." Opening his eyes he groaned again, this time in disappointment. "Damn it. Not a dream. I really am in a pirate's ship." He was surrounded by three walls and a seemingly open gap. But even he knew better than to try it, being all to familiar with shielded cells. What he could see through the gap was Ashira standing in her own cell. "Hey."
The Arturian couldn't finish his sentence as the door to the holding cells opened up. A gruff looking man sauntered in. "Oh good the catch is awake. Just in time to land."
"And just who do we have to thank for our recent abduction?" Michael asked.
"The great Simca Dekan." The man stopped in front of Michael's cell and he got a good look at him. He had dark skin and hair in dreads, a cigar burning in his mouth. He only wore an open sleeveless jacket up top. A simple pair of pants, gloves and boots were decked out with belts, pockets and pieces of armor. Around the man's neck were three necklaces. One with decorative beads or jewels, likely pilfered from a merchant, another was three bullets on a leather cord and lastly a set of dog tags. Ex-military. "Everyone around has heard of the fearless Pirate Queen Simca. Which can only mean you're not from around here."
Michael chuckled. "Don't know what you're talking about mate."
"Oh I think you do." He took a drag of his cigar and blew out a puff of smoke, causing the invisible barrier to crackle and make part of itself visible. "Arturian ship, and Arturian tattoo on your arm." Michael hand went to his arm. "Yeah, we searched you before tossing you into your cell. Interesting little find. Simca is gonna show you a great time that's for sure. Lot of people eager to meet you when we land." Michael suppressed a shudder of fear, putting on a brave face. If there were more ex-military in this Simca's pirate outfit then things won't be pleasant for him, as if being a prisoner wasn't already bad throw in wartime hatred and there's bound to be trouble. The ship lurched as it touched down and more men entered the brig, this time with guns and weird masks, grunts.
"Simca wants these prisoners secured ASAP Has." One of the masked raiders said.
The barrier flashed once and the man, now identified as Has (https://cdna.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/001/911/094/large/jesus-campos-jimenez-nerkin-space-pirate-sa-cliente.jpg?1454535556), stepped in as he drew a pair of restraints from his belt. "Hands." With no other option to oblige Michael did as he was ordered. The Arturian pilot was bound and dragged out of his cell with the others. They were led through the ship and down a ramp. The hangar they were in was you typical outlaw hangar, missing panels and exposed wires which revealed chunks of rock, neon decorative lights and lewd posters, there were bottles of alcohol scattered around as well. But it got the job done. Not everything had to look pretty to be effective. "Move." Has shoved Michael forward and they proceeded into the corridors.
"So this base is built into the asteroid huh?" Michael asked. He didn't get a reply instead a harder shove. They were lead to another room, this one had a rundown sink, in the corner a toilet with a curtain for privacy, which he doubted it provided much as there were some holes in it not more than an inch in diameter. On the right there were three cells with bars instead of force field barriers. Above that was a gangway for more cells, a set of stairs came down in front of the middle cell. The door to the room was also just bars with a center panel going across to house the locking mechanism and handle.
Once the group was inside Has left only to be replaced by the Pirate Queen herself. She wore a red and black uniform with a brown cloak. Her skin was fair and she had long dark hair. Across her lower back was a decorative shotgun (https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/shacknews/assets/article/2015/10/02/chapheader_1200x500.jpg) and gripped in her hand was an elegant fan. "I am Simca Dekan (https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1361/1240571848_d2e7bf2528_z.jpg?zz=1). And you have the honor of being my prisoners."
AngelDellaNotte
07-29-2017, 08:52 PM
A large burly man headed toward Michael seeming to have a brief conversation before binding him. Ashira didn't quite hear them as she was greeted by her own pirate. A rough looking woman (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/19/6a/94/196a94bf9144d3c0a8c010f78957b0fc.jpg) seeming to have several cybernetic enhancements and across her back was an extremely large rifle. Ashira found herself unable to look away from the gun. She said, something to Ashira that she didn't quite catch, “Huh?” Ashira asked when the woman stared angrily at her.
“I said, put your hands outs.” The woman said, with a thick bajan creole accent. “Are you daft?”
She wanted to retort with something but still couldn't stop focusing on that gun, thinking that it wasn't just there to intimidate her though it was doing a very good job. Ashira was sure the woman knew how to use that gun. She held her hands out causing the pirate to look at her puzzled about the part of a handcuff on her wrist. “I was having a little fun and lost the key.” Ashira said, not really knowing what came over her. Being held prisoner by pirates was not the best time to be a smart ass.
The pirate let out a loud chuckle then placed a full set off restraints on her while leaving the half cuff there as well. “Did ya now?” She said, pulling on the cuff and pulling Ashira towards her until they were face to face.
The woman started to say something but was interrupted by another of the raiders. “Ántonia stop messing around the Queen wants the prisoners brought to her right away.”
“Tsk, maybe we have fun later.” Ántonia said, stepping away and pulling Ashira along by her restraints.
Ashira watched as both Michael and Lillian were guided by their own pirates. Has the man with Michael seemed to be content to shove him forward. While Lillian was followed by a man (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/d1/7f/86/d17f861849146563412317f22aae7502.jpg) that looked just as hard as his companions but he looked far more posh than the others. He wasn't forcing her along or dragging her like Ántonia, instead he just sort of waved her along seeming bored.
While they were walking Ashira noticed that Has kept looking over to her. The way he looked at her didn't seem like he was leering at her. So far no one had called her on being a princess. Ashira was starting to believe no one had recognized her. Though she thought Has might have yet he hadn't said anything.
They stopped before Simca and Ashira knew who she was before she saw her. She had already figured they were the Valkyrie Raiders, which meant their leader was Simca Dekan. Ashira had read a few reports about the pirates, but they weren't much of a concern for the military leaving the pirates to the Yoran police force.
“So who is that has the honor of meeting the Queen?” Simca asked.
Ashira looked over to Michael and Lillian then decided it was best not to tell them that she was a princess. “Phoebe Dixon.” Ashira said, using Lillian's last name as her own. “This is my sister Lillian.” Thankfully Lillian and Ashira looked enough like that they could be sisters. Ashira decided to let Michael choose how to introduce himself.
Ushima
07-29-2017, 10:41 PM
Simca's heeled boots clacked loudly as she walked over to the silent man in cuffs. Stopping before Michael she reached out with her fan, using it to lift Michael's chin and forcing him to look her in the eye. "And what about you? Does the Arturian dog have a name?" Michael remained silent. Swiftly Simca struck Michael across the face. There was a nice red mark on his right cheek. "Speak."
Michael answered this time. "Michael Coran."
"I know that name." Has spoke up. "The Devil of Verdin. Couple buddies of mine told me stories of an Arturian pilot. Three months the army tried to take the planet Verdin and use it as a foothold to get into Arturia's cluster. And this fucker," Has angrily gestured at Michael. "Wiped out every patrol and laid waste to and force they tried to land on the planet. They say he liked to hide in the photon storms the frequented the planet's surface. Made it hard to pick up his ship. Just picture it. Dark swirling clouds and purple lightning. Then out flies this single fighter to take on our forces. Only someone crazy would do that."
"I was also pretty good in open space battle above the planet too." A smug grin broke out across Michael's face. "But hey when you're good you're good."
"Seems we've captured the devil ladies and gentlemen." Simca moved around Michael. Her arms wrapped around his chest. "I do like it when my prey has the capability to fight back. Makes it more fun. Tell me fly boy how many have fallen to you?"
With Simca at his back he knew refusing to answer now would be bad. "Forty-seven confirmed. Estimated about seventy total with unconfirmed."
The man in black and red suit with a scar then spoke up. "He also managed to take out three ships before we got the others in place."
Michael shuddered as he felt something wet slide up his neck. He was a little disturbed that their captor would brazenly lick him as if he was some sort of plaything. But then he reminded himself that he was her prisoner. Michael was at her mercy, she could do whatever she wanted and no one was going to stop her. "Someone's going to have to compensate me for my destroyed ships and crew." She tightened her grip on Michael. "You'll provide us some good entertainment tonight. What's the status of their ship?"
The scarred man replied. "Their ship was just towed into the hangar and we're going through it now."
"Excellent." Finally she let go of Michael and stood with her people. "Remove their restraints." Guards came over and removed their shackles, one even got the extra one removed from Ashira's wrist. "Make yourselves comfortable. You'll be here awhile." With that Pirate Queen Simca left the three in the room, the heavy barred door slamming behind her and locking.
Michael turned to face the others. They were trapped. Trapped with nothing but a sink, toilet and smaller cells that contained simple beds for company. "Well shit."
AngelDellaNotte
08-01-2017, 09:49 PM
Seeing Simca all over Michael bothered Ashira, she wasn't sure why. He was just a pilot taking her to Arturia to be married. Not to him. She shouldn't be upset with who flirts with him. Simca was just so brash about it. Ashira had to admit she was glad when the other woman pulled away. The pirates left them to search their ship. They hadn't really planned for anything like this. It was very likely they would have been searched but it was figured it would be by border patrol agents looking for contraband. Not pirates looking for anything of wealth.
Ashira was trying to think of anything she may have in her luggage that might give her away as a royal. She had a several military uniforms, while she wasn't going to Arturia as a soldier the fact remained that she was. Mostly in her luggage was clothes both of the causal variety and fancy sort. What she figured would give her away most was a crown meant for ceremonial use. While it didn't have anything on it linking her to the royal family not many people carried a crown in their suitcase. She would be hard pressed to find a excuse for it. Of all the items on the ship other than herself the crown was worth the most, easily costing twice the amount of ship. They would have to deal with that when they got there, if they lived that long. Michael seemed to be intentionally angering their captors. “Do you think it is wise to antagonize them? They may be pirates but they are still Yoran. And no one knows we are entering a treaty.” Ashira said, looking over to the pilot.
Ushima
08-02-2017, 01:44 AM
Michael walked over to sink. Turning the water on he ran his hand under it. It was cool. Trying the hot water it proved to be cool as well. "At least the water is clean." Michael took his wet hand and rubbed his neck, cleaning Simca's saliva off his flesh. "It might be bad to antagonize them. But you heard them, they have plans for me. So I'm going to take every shot I can." Leaving the sink behind Michael walked by the other two and entered one of the cells, sitting on the cot. "Bed's a little hard, might take some work to fall asleep. Might want to get some rest. The unknown awaits us."
It was an hour later when Has came back into their cell, following him was Simca and she had an intrigued look on her face. "Well you lot are full of surprises." She reached into her jacket and pulled out a clear plastic card with the Yoran Royal Seal on it. "We found dresses and a small crown. At first I thought you were another rich noble on a wild ride with foreigner just to piss off daddy. It makes me laugh just picturing it. Oh daddy I'm going to run off with the enemy!" Simca let out a haughty laugh. "But this is even better. Forgers have been trying for years to recreate these and I hold in my hand originals. It does make we wonder though what our dear princess is doing with an Arturian this deep into our system." Simca looked Ashira up and down. "Maybe we should take her somewhere and ask."
"Ma'am." The scarred pirate stepped forward. "I'd suggest against that. The Royal Family would want her unharmed when we ransomed her back to them. Now the dog on the other hand."
"I see your point. Grab him." Simca turned and left, two guards grabbing Michael and dragging him behind her. He could hear the cries of his traveling companions as the door was closed and locked behind him. The pirated took him to another room and bound him in chains, hoisting his arms in the air. Michael stood there, silent as they hovered around him. "So Arturian, planning to steal the princess away?" Simca's fan danced teasingly across his chest. "Or is there a better game going on?"
"I don't know what you're talking about." Was Michael's answer. This is something he couldn't budge on. He couldn't reveal the true reason for escorting the princess across the system.
Simca clicked her tongue and stepped back, allowing Has to step forward and deliver a hard punch to Michael's stomach. The pilot grunted in pain. "Want to try again?"
Michael smirked. "Going to the honeymoon. Forgot to put just married on the back." Has punched him again. "Oh that the best you got? My safe word is keep going by the way."
"Don't go too rough on him Has. He still needs to fight later this evening." Has worked Michael over for a good hour but the pilot refused to give a straight answer. "Enough." The Pirate Queen called out. "There's no need to rush things. Let's let him rest." Michael was left alone. He sunk to his knees, or as far as he could. His body ached as he let himself slip into unconsciousness to rest.
"Hey wake up." Michael awoke to Has slapping his face. "It's time." The foreign pilot was released from his chains and brought back to his cell. There was a large gathering inside it. Along three sides of the first floor pirates were lined up, already jeering at him. The side with the smaller individual cells were clear, Ashira and Lillian sat in them. Above them on the second floor gangway was more pirates and Simca sat watching down below. Michael was brought in and thrown to the ground in the middle.
Simca stood, slamming her fan on the railing several times. loud metal clangs rang out and got the crowd to be silent. "For tonight's entertainment I present a special treat. From Arturia! The Devil of Verdin!" Boos and jeers rose from the crowd. "And out first competitor, Jaros the Spinecracker!" The crowd went wild as a large man entered. He was shirtless, hair in a bright blue spiked Mohawk, covered in tattoos.
Michael's eyes widened. "Ah fuck me."
"That all depends on how you hold up over the course of the evening," Simca laughed. "Challengers ready!?" Michael took a ready stance, trying to remember his basic combat training. He was a little rusty, most of his combat experience being in a star fighter. "FIGHT!"
AngelDellaNotte
08-03-2017, 08:38 AM
Ashira protested at Michael being dragged away by the pirates but it didn't seem to make a difference. They took him away ignoring her and Lillian. The two of them were left alone in the room alone for about several hours. Lillian had tried encouraging Ashira to get some rest but it wasn't the hard bed keeping her up. She didn't know what was happening to Michael and was trying to think of a way off of this pirate ship. The scared pirate had mentioned ransoming her back to her mother. What they didn't know was there was a reason no one ever tried to kidnap a royal, other than they were rarely without a overdose of security.
The royal family did not take kindly to kidnapping, the last royal to be kidnapped had been when Empress Beatrix was a child. A noble family had wanted to try and leverage the Emperor into voting a certain way and kidnapped his wife. The Emperor had given in and voted getting his wife back. At the time they hadn't known who had been the kidnappers but the Yoran intelligence service had discovered the identity of who it was and the leaders of the family had been hunted down then executed. The remainder of the family was stripped of all titles then exiled.
It had been only the empress who had talked the emperor out executing the entire family to send a message. Empress Beatrix was very much like her father and no doubt would hunt down and kill every single member of the Valkyrie Raiders. Ashira's grandmother had been kidnapped so long ago that Simca no doubt had never heard of the Farron family.
Perhaps Ashira would be able reason with Simca explaining to her how much of a mistake it was to ransom her back to her mother. The trick would be figuring out how to get them to release Michael. She didn't get a chance to think more on it as Ántonia walked back into the room. The pirate headed to Lillian grabbing the body guard by the hair and dragging her to one of the cells. She threw Lillian in there and slammed the door shut. “Much better.” Ántonia said, walking back to Ashira and brushing her hand down Ashira's cheek. “Shame the queen says I can't play with you. She does want me to try and figure you out. So your highness care to tell me what you are doing with the Devil of Verdin?” Ántonia surprisingly very gently took Ashira's hand and guided her to the other cell and sat her down on the bed.
With how rough the pirate had been with Lillian she hadn't expected that. Ashira looked up at the pirate who leaned against the door to the cell crossing her arms. “Went on a fling with an Arturian to piss off mommy dearest.” Ashira said, echoing Simca's earlier statement.
Ántonia let out a loud chuckle, “As much as I want to believe you I'm not buying it. A woman as beautiful as you is wasted on that vermin.” Ántonia said, as the scared pirate came back into the room followed by a large number of pirates who all took various positions around the room.
“Ántonia stop screwing around with the Princess.” The scared pirate called out.
“Lamario, I am not screwing around with her. I wish I was though.” Ántonia said, blowing Ashira a kiss and exiting the cell then closing the door. Michael was dragged back into the room and a few moment later Simca announced that he would be fighting a brute of a man.
Ashira had been impressed when Michael had fought off the guards on Haroni but didn't know how he would do against the pirate. Around her the other pirates began placing beats not on who would win but on how long it would take Jaros the Spinecracker to kill Michael. Ashira didn't quite understand why people enjoyed watching two people beat the crap out of each other. The sport had just never interested her. This wasn't a sport though, she was sure Jaros planned on killing the pilot. Simca announced the start of the fight and Ashira knew she had to do something. “Wait!” She shouted but didn't know if the pirate queen could hear her over the roar of the crowd.
Ushima
08-04-2017, 03:49 AM
Jaros rushed Michael with a loud yell. "Fuck!" They traded blows evenly, if a little overpowered, at first. Both were gauging their opponents abilities. Michael was a little more technical of a fighter, thanks to his military training. Unlike Jaros who lacked a certain finesse. Strong wild blows. One of which caught Michael across the jaw. The pilot staggered back, blood now on the corner of his mouth. Jaros raised his hands in the victory of drawing first blood and let out a roar, causing the crowd to cheer. Michael wiped the bit of blood away with his thumb. Looking up he caught Ashira's gaze and gave her a reassuring nod. Turning back around he and Jaros squared off again. Michael managed to land a couple blows on Jaros but it didn't seem to work. Jaros retaliated with a hard kick, sending Michael to the ground. "Who's the devil now!?" Jaros yelled.
Michael picked himself up. He didn't say anything. Instead he took another stance and gestured for Jaros to come at him. The Spinecracker complied. Another thing that differentiated Michael and Jaros was the ability to assess their surroundings. If he had stopped to notice he'd have seen Michael was positioned right in front of the stairs. There for he wasn't ready when Michael tripped him up. Jaros fell face first into the metal stairs, hitting his forehead. Michael capitalized on it, turning the brute over and punching him in the face. He pulled his fist back and paused, another blow wasn't needed. Jaros was unconscious, a cut on his forehead from where he hit the stairs. Michael let the pirate go and stepped back. The crowd's cheers turned to boos as Michael tauntingly held up his arms in victory. Michael sent a smile toward Ashira, letting her know he was ok. All in all the fight only lasted about seven minutes. But to him it felt like an hour.
What followed next was a series of fighters. James "Heart Eater" McGee. Sarah the Bombshell Brawler. Buckshot Jones. Nakatomi the Dragon. Jill O'hulahan the Witch, just to name a few. One by one they stepped into the ring. They weren't easy fights either. After the match with Jaros the Spinecracker they were wise to his game. The fighting was hard. The top of his flightsuit was gone, shredded and scattered about. His t-shirt was fair any better either. It was barely hanging on. Matilda Starlight kicked Michael hard in the side and he staggered over to the crowd. The caught him and held him. His opponent punched him a few times before stepping back. The other pirates pushed Michael forward. He fell onto his knees, his shirt stayed behind. "Well that looks familiar!" One of the pirates jeered. "How many of us have something like that?!" Shouted another.
Simca got curious as to what got her pirates' attention. "Turn him around!" The Pirate Queen yelled. Two pirates stepped forward, grabbing a nearly broken and bloody Michael and turned him to face Simca, and by extension Ashira and Lillian. There in bluish black ink was 705398-B. It also showed heavy scars, on the front of his torso as well.
"Oi that's a prison tat!" Someone called out. Michael's head hung low as more of his past came out.
"Matilda!" Simca pointed at Michael with her fan. "I tire of this." Matilda nodded. Turning back to face Michael she pulled her arm back for a punch. At the last second Michael yanked one of the pirates down to take the blow for him. With his right hand free he stood, punching the other in the face. By then Matilda recovered but Michael tackled her. They wrestled on the ground and the pilot got Matilda in a hold, successfully choking her out. With the unconscious fighter on the ground Michael got up on shaky legs. Simca licked her lips in predatory fashion. "Seems there was some fight in you at the end after all." The Pirate Queen descended the stairs and stood before Michael. She looked him up and down. Chest covered in sweat and blood, decorated with numerous times. "So was that from a prison on Arturia or were you a prisoner of war?" Michael said nothing, to tired, breathing heavily from exhaustion. He'd been fighting for awhile. "Aw you're to tired to reply. But you do get a reward." Simca gripped Michael's chin, her nails lightly scrapping. She pulled him in for a kiss that only lasted a few seconds. Pulling back she licked her lips again. "I do like it when my prey is exhausted. Show's me how far they can go when pushed to extremes. You're going to be fun I can tell." After another quick taunting kiss Simca ordered everyone out.
Now alone with just Ashira and Lillian Michael dropped to his knees. He was exhausted. Blood dripped from his mouth and nose, his bottom lip starting to swell and his left eye was black. Bruises were appearing on his arms and torso, he was pretty sure his legs too. Michael didn't want to move. Didn't want to do anything. Bed sounded nice. No he'd do bed. Trying to stand all Michael did was fall onto his front and let out a grunt of pain, his muscles ached. "Bed." Michael groaned as he tried crawling forward. "Want. Bed. Sleep. Ugh."
AngelDellaNotte
08-06-2017, 12:24 AM
Watching the fights Ashira found herself having to look away several times not wanting to see what was going to happen. She knew from the cheers and boos when Michael was doing well but that did not ease her worry for the pilot. Just like the pirates she was surprised to see the tattoo. She wasn’t sure how the Arturian treated prisoners but knew that the Yoran did give tattoos to both POW and convicts. It made them easier to track while in the prison system and prevented one getting mistaken for another.
When the pirate queen finally had enough entertainment she called for all the pirates to leave the room. At first Ashira thought they were just going to leave her and Lillian trapped in the cage but then the pirate with a scar on his face, Lamario she recalled him being called, came over with the key to their cells. He stopped at her cell first pausing at the lock as he looked in at her. “Princess.” He said, seeming to stare at her in a sort of awe that none of the other pirates had. It seemed that he had some kind of respect or reverence for her. Most pirates sore off any loyalty to the nations they were born in and served their own cause. Why he would look at her like this was beyond her. His queen was Simca not her mother.
As she looked at man she couldn’t help but notice that he wasn’t like the other pirates most were hardened men and women, that wasn’t to say that he looked soft. He just carried himself different, he had some class to him and cleaned up much nicer than the others. Ashira’s eyes were drawn to a large curved sword (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/ba/27/45/ba27455714ac33ba1496440e4331dc97.jpg) on his hip that she hadn’t seen before but then again she had been more focused on Ántonia dragging her around. It was an unusual weapon to carry when most people used gun. “Keeping me here isn’t wise, nor is ransoming me back to my mother. Yoran doesn’t treat terrorists well.” Ashira said, thinking she could sway him into thinking with some reason.
“Believe me I know but it is the queen’s choice.” Lamario said, seeming to know that it would be better to release he princess and cut their losses. But he also knew it was above him. He unlocked the cage them moved to unlock Lillian’s as well before going to the door to the room. He paused at it looking back at Ashira, “Princess, keep your head down.” He warned, before leaving.
Ashira ran out of the cage thinking the interaction with the pirate was strange. She stopped at Michael kneeling next to him. She looked at the tattoo seeing that it started with 705 meaning he spent time at the Darkin Prison Station, which orbited the planet Feydon. Darkin was designated as a prisoner of war camp and housed Arturian soldiers. There was a possibility of the Arturian using a similar marking system but she didn’t think so. Helping Michael to his feet both she and Lillian eased him over to one of the beds laying him down.
Ushima
08-06-2017, 03:58 AM
Michael groaned as he was hauled up off the floor. For a moment he had forgotten he had companions that could help him. They helped him into one of the cells and laid him down. Michael laid on his stomach, happy to no longer crawling on the ground to his bed. "Did I win? It feels like I didn't." He was exhausted and needed sleep but he knew what was coming. It was right there on his back for all to see. Among the scars, bruises and blood the bluish black ink stood out like a beacon. "Orbital POW camp. Prisoner number 705398. Cell block B. Yeah that was a fun four months let me tell you. Dragged in, held down to tattoo my ID on me. Makes sense to do it that way I'll give you that. Makes it harder for escaped prisoners to hide."
Pushing himself up he turned and sat on the edge of the bed. "In Arturia we use tattoos as well. But barcodes instead of numbers. We can literally scan them into the system." Blood dripped from his chin onto his pant leg but he ignored it. "Two years ago I was shot down and captured. They didn't waste time getting me secured inside. I was kept isolated for a few weeks while I was interrogated for information." Michael gestured to his torso. At the numerous scars. "Obviously I didn't tell them anything. I won't say weren't not guilty of similar methods. Eventually they released me into gen pop, thinking getting me comfortable and my guards down might loosen my lips. Also word was starting to spread around that the Devil of Verdin was being held deep in the bowels of the prison and they were getting riled up."
Michael licked his chapped lips, tasting coppery blood. "I don't know how involved you were with the war two years ago. Lillian might know about it. But four months after I arrived a group of prisoners who had been planning an escape for years brought me into the fold. They had it all mapped out except for the final detail. A pilot skilled enough to get past the bases defenses and out fly any pursuit ships. I don't what happened before they opened my cell to collect me but we started a riot and fought our way to the hangar. I took as many as I could with me in the transport ship. Maybe forty....fifty. It was a big ship. It hauled prisoners planet side for work details. I never went on one. Didn't want to put me anywhere near a ship." Michael licked his lips again. "Any water? Maybe one of the scraps of cloth to wipe up this blood?"
AngelDellaNotte
08-08-2017, 03:37 AM
Looking around the room Ashira tried to find anything they could use for bandages but was coming up with nothing but the bed sheets and they didn’t exactly look all that clean. She rather not have to use them but didn’t have any other options. There was a water tap in the cell next to the toilet that she could use for clean water but that did little good with dirty bandages. The door to the room opened again and Lamario walked in carrying a stack of towel and what looked to be a small first aid kit. He walked to them and dropped the items on the bed before grabbing Lillian by the arm and dragging her out of the cell quite forcibly. “Where are you taking her?” Ashira shouted rising to her feet but Larmario ignored her and continued pulling Lillian from the room.
He shoved her into a small maintenance room and shut the door behind them holding his hand to Lillian’s mouth keeping her from calling out. He held her forcefully against the wall so she couldn’t move. “You recognize me don’t you?” He said, though he didn’t take his hand off of her mouth until she nodded.
“Your name isn’t Lamario, its Asher.” Lillian said, quietly. She had thought he looked familiar but couldn’t really place him at first. Lieutenant Lucas Asher, 8th Special Forces division. The prince’s squad had completed a few missions with them. It was the scar that gave him away but the last time Lillian had seen him the scar had been fresh.
“What in nine hells is Princess Ashira doing in deep space on an Arturian ship with only her bodyguard and an Arturian soldier?” Asher asked, stepping back as far as he could in the small room. Even still he was just a foot or so away from her.
“I’m not telling you anything until you explain what you are doing on a pirate ship. I didn’t take you for a deserter.” Lillian said, accusingly.
“I’m not a deserter. Six months ago several military shipments went missing. We were able to track them back to the Valkyrie Raiders. I presented myself as a deserter to infiltrate them in an attempt to recover the munitions.“ Asher said, leaning back against the door. “Now explain, Princess Ashira.”
Lillian stood there a few moments staring at the man, he wasn’t cleared for this mission but Lillian couldn’t think of a way off the station without his help. “The Empress has negotiated peace treaty with the Arturians. It involves a marriage between the two nations. Princess Ashira is to wed Prince Casius.” Lillian said.
“Then why are you on a cargo ship instead of a military escort?” Asher asked thinking Ashira would have been escorted by a fleet of ships rather than a single pilot and soldier.
“The Empress believes we have traitors in the government. We’ve used this technique to smuggle soldiers into Arturia and thought to use it to get the Princess across borders with as few knowing about the mission as possible.” Lillian said, “We didn’t expect to get ambushed by pirates.”
“Well you did.” Asher said, “Good thing you got ambushed by pirates who have a mole on their ship. I’ll help you get out of here but it is going to take some time. The room you are being held in is under surveillance you cannot discuss anything we have talked about here with the others.” He paused looking at her a minute then pushed her against the wall away pinning her wrists above her head with one hand while the other tugged at her clothes. She struggled against him not sure what was going on until he spoke again, “There is only one reason anyone would think I would bring you here. We need to make it believable.” He said, leaning into her and roughly kissing her lips turning them a bright pink. He moved her to her neck next leaving several bite marks while still disheveling her clothes. The Princess and Arturian were off limits by order of the Simca but nothing was said about her guard.
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Ashira wasn’t happy that Lamario had taken Lillian but there was little she could do about it. They were at the mercy of the pirates. She focused instead on Michael rather than worrying about Lillian. There was nothing she could to do to help her and Lillian was very capable of taking care of herself. So she went to work on patching up Michael. First she ran a cloth under the sink and handed it to him to soak up the blood from his lip. “You are going to have to sit up for me to be able to get all your wounds.” Ashira said, helping him up then sitting behind him. The bed was small and forced them to be very close to each other, her legs brushing up against his own.
She started first with his back using another towel to clean the wounds. After each one was washed she applied healing ointment then bandages when needed. It took a while to get all of them then she moved to his chest. Brushing a new towel across his muscles unable to help but stare at them. Michael was in prime shape and she had to admit very pleasing on the eyes. Setting the towel down, she picked up the tube of ointment again and applied it to more wounds. She didn’t realize that she rubbed all of it in and her fingers were merely tracing the contours of him until they ended up right over the prison tattoo. “I’m sorry you had to go through that.” She said.
Ushima
08-08-2017, 01:52 PM
Michael shivered as Ashira cleaned his wounds. Their bodies were close and he could feel her warmth seep into him. "All in a day's work my lady." Ashira couldn't see it but Michael was grinning. "I guess you could technically say you have a man fighting for you." He was starting to feel better, Ashira's hands working his muscles as she rubbed in ointment. "I'll fight as many as I have to in order to keep you safe. Though I'm sure Simca has other uses for me now other than a pit fighter. I can only imagine what that woman has in store." He remembered the kiss she gave him. The Pirate Queen certainly had a way of treating her guests. Michael was sure she had more craziness up her sleeve.
A tired yawn escaped Michael as he sat in Ashira's arms. His exhaustion combined with her body heat was starting to lull him to sleep. He needed rest, so his body could recover and be ready to handle whatever Simca threw at them next. Michael just hoped that nothing happened while he was out. A couple hours was all he was asking for, he was sure they had other things to do. "I need to get some rest." Carefully he moved around Ashira's leg to lay down, trapping her between the wall and himself. "You're on watch while I'm out. Don't let that psycho lady get me in my sleep ok? I'm counting on you. Oh if they bring in food you can also wake me then. I won't be upset if there's food. Food is always a win." Michael gave Ashira a playful wink before he closed his eyes and relaxed, trying to drift off to a nice slumber.
AngelDellaNotte
08-08-2017, 07:48 PM
“I have a thousand men fighting for me.” Ashira said, laying down next to Michael and resting her head on his chest. It felt good laying there with him, completely ignoring the conversation she had with Lillian. “But none of them are anything like you.”She said, to his sleeping form. She watched as Michael drifted off to sleep not sure if he heard her or not. They laid like this for some time Ashira thinking that she was going to drift off to sleep when the door flew open and Lamario threw Lillian into the room slamming the door shut after her.
Ashira quickly sat up, carefully jumping from the bed to run to her bodyguard. She knelt down next to Lillian seeing that her clothes were messed up and that she had bloody lip. “Lillian what happened?” Ashira asked pulling away long enough to grab a towel and handing it to Lillian.
“Nothing to worry about, Princess.” Lillian said, looking past Ashira to a camera hanging on the wall. She looked around the room seeing at least four more. She couldn't pin point any of them but she was sure there were audio sensor throughout the room. Asher was just going to make it look like her had roughed her up, it had been her idea for him to hit her. He had argued with her a while saying it wasn't necessary but in the end she won out and he had hit her.
“No, Lillian. What happened to you.” Ashira asked. Lillian may have worked for her but in the time they had known each other Ashira had come to care a great deal for the other woman and that they were friends.
“I am fine. Princess nothing I can't handle.” Lillian said, standing up and helping Ashira stand. “How is our pilot?”
Ushima
08-09-2017, 06:33 AM
He heard her faintly, a soft smile breaking out. "How many of them are Arturian?" An arm wrapped around her. "Just me right? One of a kind baby." And he was out. Sleep took the tired warrior into it's embrace. A welcomed embrace. Here there were no pirates. No wars. Just him flying a light cruiser through space. He was at peace here in the endless vacuum of darkness. Stars shining light years away. The planet and moons floating without a care. This sector was unfamiliar to him. In his dreams he's flying through unexplored space. Going where no man has gone before. Traversing the unknown. There's someone in the co-pilot's chair. Dark hair and feminine features, light up by the illumination of the console. But he doesn't see her face, she remains focused on her task, diligent hands working the controls of the ship expertly. Michael recognized his techniques, clearly he'd given this person some tips. Before he could reach out and get their attention he was woken up.
"Meal time." Their door was opened and the scarred man walked in.
Michael sat up in bed, feeling a lot better. The soreness and pain was long gone. "Finally some food." He mumbled, sliding to the edge of the bed.
The man stood in the doorway to the smaller cell. "How is Simca's new prized fighter fairing after a bit of rest?"
"Better no thanks to you lot." Michael stood up, facing the man.
"I didn't know the Arturians could fight so well." Michael's fist tightened. "They were usually on the run when I showed up."
"And when I showed up I'd blow up all your ships." He retaliated. Michael didn't know who this man was or that his true intentions was to keep a face. And what better than to antagonize the prisoner. "Battleship Nemeris? Gone. Orbital defense satellite laser Argus? My kill. That special elite squadron you had, fuck I don't remember what you called them. Hunted down one by one over Verdin. Both sides pushed forward and pulled back. What's your fucking point?"
The response was a laugh. "Oh you are a wild one aren't you? Can see why she likes you." Michael thought the she in question was Simca.
So Michael replied with, "Tell that crazy bitch I'm ready for whatever is next."
"Oh don't worry." The man turned and started walking away. "She'll be wanting dessert later. See you then." Another guard came in and handed Michael a tray of food and cup of water. Behind him was another guard with a rifle trained on him, just in case. Michael didn't try anything, taking the tray peacefully. He was too hungry to make any attempt at resistance. The guards left after the prisoners had their food. Michael sat down on his bed to eat, left to wonder what Simca had in store and what that man exactly meant by 'dessert.'
AngelDellaNotte
08-12-2017, 04:03 AM
Ashira put her hand on Michael's shoulder as he taunted the pirates again. It hadn't worked out so well for him last time the pirates taking turns to fight him. “Michael.” Ashira said, softly hoping she could get him to stop.
In the cell across from them Lillian sat with a towel still to her lip just shaking her head. Her eyes met with Larmario's briefly but she quickly looked away. To anyone looking on it would seem that she was looking away out of fear or shame but Lillian only wanted to keep their cover. The princess shivered thinking of what Larmario meant by dessert and frankly didn't want Michael going anywhere near the woman. Larmario and the other pirate started to leave but Ashira quickly stood up trying her best regal pose. “I demand to speak with Simca.” Ashira said.
“Yeah, well you aren't exactly in the position to demand anything.” Lamario said, with a chuckle. “Sit down and eat your dinner.”
Ashira growled under her breath then took a step toward the pirate, not noticing Lillian jump to her feet or gesture for the Princess not to. “I am a Yoran Princess and member of house Idomi you will address me as someone fitting of my station.” Ashira said, causing the pirate to flinch a little. “Now I demand to speak with Simca at once.”
“You may be a princess but I am a queen.” A voice that was becoming all to familiar said, from the doorway to the room.
Ushima
08-12-2017, 10:13 PM
"Or did you happed to forget?" Simca strolled in, flanked by two guards with rifles. "But I believe we're capable women. Perhaps we can negotiate something. Tomorrow. I have other plans for the evening."
"We going for round two?" Michael asked. "I'll knock out as many of your pirates as you got."
"Oh I'm sure. But we'll be going a few rounds." Simca snapped her fingers and her guards stepped forward. "Of course we need a change of venue."
Michael turned to look at Ashira, then over to Lillian who he gave a nod too. "I'll be back. Don't keep the light on." Michael was escorted out. Simca didn't follow him right away. He was led, by gunpoint, through the base and deposited into a lavishly decorated room. Plush red carpet and large bed, a window that looked out into the asteroid field. Scattered around on display were several trophy items, taken from the most successful of loot hauls. A singular chair was in the center of the room which he was ordered to sit in. Michael complied and was quickly secured by the wrists to the chair.
Simca entered the room and ordered her guards to leave. "That will be all gentlemen." The Pirate Queen disappeared into what he assumed her wardrobe. "I hope you're enjoying your stay here."
Michael replied, "Something tells me it's about to be bittersweet." And indeed he was right. Simca emerged wearing one of the sexiest outfits he has ever seen. Red and black corset, lacey, stockings and gloves with heels. "Ugh why'd you have to be a space pirate?" She slowly walked over to him, swinging her hips enticingly. She sat herself in his lap and kissed him hard. Restrained he couldn't fight her off as her mouth moved down his jaw and onto his neck, biting, sucking and licking his flesh no doubt leaving a mark.
AngelDellaNotte
08-13-2017, 06:12 PM
When Simca came and took Michael there was nothing she could do to stop them. Sleep did not come easy to Ashira but finally she feel asleep. When she woke the next morning Michael was still gone. She didn't want to think about what the pirate queen was doing to him. Lamario and a few other guards brought Lillian and her breakfast but Ahsira wasn't hungry. Especially when the scarred pirate had dragged Lillian away again. The other pirates had to hold Ashira back but eventually they managed to throw her into one of the cells. “Stay, in there your highness and be thankful none of us have decided to have a little fun with you.” One of the pirates said, before leaving Ashira alone in the room.
Lamario and Lillian ended up in the same maintenance closet as before. “You need to keep the Princess under control. She can't be demanding to see Simca.” Larmario said.
“That's a little difficult seeing as I can't tell her what is going on.” Lillian said, frustrated. She hadn't been able to find a way to tell Ashira to back down without giving away Larmario.
“Lillian, you are smart figure it out.” Larmario said, “Whatever just get the princess under control for a little while more before reinforcements arrive.”
“ Asher, have you been around many royals? You don't exactly control them.” Lillian said, “It is a fine line but you have to handle them delicately. Make them think it was their idea.”
“Fine then handle her delicately but get her under control.” Larmario said, moving to the door but Lillian stopped him.
“Your cover Asher.” Lillian said, pushing him against the door and kissing him.
“I think you are enjoying this too much.” Lamario said, returning the kiss.
“Perhaps.” Lillian said.
Ushima
08-13-2017, 11:53 PM
He was roused from his slumber with heavy shakes. "Wake up." A female guard was almost dragging him out of bed. Simca still slept, out like a light with no indication of waking up anytime soon. His clothes were missing but the guard who woke him up solved that problem. "Here." She handed him clothes. His boots and gloves were back but everything else was missing. Instead he put on a plain pair of briefs, black pants, tank top and belt. "She really went to town on you huh?"
"Yeah." His new outfit did little to hide the numerous bite marks and hickeys on his neck and shoulder. After he finished lacing up his boots he was escorted out of Simca's room. Every Pirate he passed gave him catcalls, saying he lived to fight another day. Was there a chance he could've died last night? Michael was pretty sure. She could've done anything after she slipped that blindfold on him.
The guard opened the door and shoved him in. "Rest up. Never know when she'll want another piece."
"Damn it." Michael groaned to himself. "Just fucking great." Looking around the cell he was surprised to see that the princess was the only one here. Looking up to the next floors he made sure those cells were empty. They were. "I hope your night was better than mine. Did Lillian go out for a jog or something?"
AngelDellaNotte
08-16-2017, 02:42 AM
Michael came in wearing clothes that weren't his and bite marks all over him. Ashira was still locked in the cell where Larmario had left her. She looked up when the door opened at first thinking it was Lillian but was surprised to see Michael. She hadn't been sure when or if he was coming back. There was no doubt what Simca intended to do with him and judging by the bite marks she had done just that. Michael looked around the room noticing that Lillian wasn't there. When he commented on it Ashira merely turned her back to him and not responding.
She knew he had no choice but to go with Simca but that didn't mean she had to like it. Michael always had a jovial easy going way about him but after something like this he shouldn't or at least that was what Ashira thought. After what he had just gone through he couldn't be this happy unless he had enjoyed it. It shouldn't bother Ashira that much but it was. There was nothing between them. That was what Ashira kept telling herself but perhaps Lillian had been right about the two of them. The body guard had been warning her about just this thing.
Ushima
08-16-2017, 04:32 PM
Michael blinked, surprised when Ashira didn't reply. Sighing he walked over to the sink and ran the water. Cupping his hands underneath the cool water he splashed some on his face. "Damn that'll wake you up." There was a cracked mirror above the sink, even still he could tell he was a mess. Hair disheveled and eyes slightly red from lack of sleep. He rubbed his face with the water, running a wet hand through his hair. "It's not a shower but it'll do." Damp hands worked his neck. The cool water felt good. He couldn't wait until the bite marks and hickies faded away and he'd no longer be reminded of that devil woman. If he hadn't been bound all night he'd have strangled her right there and began a daring escape out of the asteroid base. But things don't always go their way and Simca made it perfectly clear who was in charge around here. They needed to find a way to change that.
Turning back around he approached Ashira. The cell door was closed. Even though he knew it wouldn't open he tried it anyway. The cell door shook, metal jangling. A slight echo filled the room before dying off some seconds later. Michael leaned against the cell door. "Hey." His voice was soft as he called out to the princess. "Ashira. Hey, look at me. Come on." Michael reached his arms through the bars. The one thing that kept him going was getting back to the princess. His mission. His friend. Michael looked at his arms, his wrists red from where Simca kept him bound all night. These scarred arms were reaching out for a source of strength. They needed each other if they were to get out of this. "Please? Look at me."
AngelDellaNotte
08-22-2017, 05:00 AM
“Why?” Ashira said, turning to face the pilot again. She could see his disheveled state, feeling the anger run through her. She didn't even want to think about Michael being with Simca but each time she saw him it was fresh in her mind. “Wouldn't you prefer to have your pirate queen.” Ashira said. She stood up and walked toward the cell door standing across from Michael just staring at him. The two of them were locked in a stare neither of them noticing Lillian come back into the room.
Lamario dragged her across the room again throwing her onto the ground then looking up at Ashira and Michael seeing the princess locked in the cell. He hadn't seen the other pirates lock her in there, she must have given them trouble when he took Lillian. He walked over to the cell unlocking it but not opening. It looked like the two of them were having some sort of disagreement. Lamario didn't want to get involved with the two of them not wanting to risk his cover. He had to seem indifferent to the princess. Honestly he couldn't care less about the Arturian pilot, yet Lillian had insisted he was necessary to the mission. The pirate moved away from the cell stopping next to Lillian who was still sitting on the ground. He grabbed her by the hair and forced a kiss on her lips, “Get her under control.” He whispered to her then pushed her back to the ground again before leaving.
Ushima
08-22-2017, 04:14 PM
"Hey, come on you know that's not true." Michael wondered what had gotten into Ashira. It seemed she was mad he was with Simca. And honestly he was pretty mad about it too. He certainly didn't want to be here any longer. Didn't want to be subjected to whatever insane plots the Pirate Queen came up with and acted upon a whim. If he had his way he'd have killed her on the spot and escaped with Ashira and Lillian.
"Excuse me." Someone walked up and unlocked the cell door quickly.
Michael gripped the bars but didn't open them yet. "This...it wasn't easy you know. The whole time I kept wanting to come back here. To you. And Lillian to of course. I was just a plaything to her and if for whatever reason I disappointed her she more than likely would have ended me." It was one of the most conflicting times in his life. Perform well enough with a person he hated to live to see the next day. "I was just hoping to have a friend to lean on when I got back." The door remained closed, his hand dropping from the bars. Michael climbed the stairs to the second level and entered an empty cell. Laying on the bed he sighed deeply, an arm covering his face. "Fucking hell."
AngelDellaNotte
08-23-2017, 04:53 AM
She didn't respond to him just rolled over on the bed so her back was to him again. Lillian sighed thinking that yes the two of them were fighting like teenagers but least they weren't doing anything stupid like trying to escape or demanding to see the pirate queen. The bodyguard took a seat on one of the couches in the room just watching the door and wondering how long it would take Asher to get them out of her.
Several hours went by of both the princess and pilot sulking in their different cells until finally Ántonia and Hass entered the room. The female pirate walked to Ashira's cell throwing the door open. “Get up pretty.” She said, and when Ashira didn't move she entered the cell grabbing Ashira by the collar. “Come on Princess you've finally got a audience with the Queen.” She dragged Ashira from the cell the princess finally coming to her feet and following behind the pirate. They were almost to the door when Ántonia called to Hass, “Come on Hass, the Queen wants her pet to come too.”
“Aye, I've got him.” Hass said, grabbing Michael and bringing him down to the main level.
Lillian had jumped from her feet the moment Ántonia put hands on Ashira, she didn't attack her though heeding Asher's words about keeping a low profile. She did however move between the pirate and the door. “The princess isn't going anywhere without me.” Lillian said. She didn't trust these pirates one bit and still wasn't all that sure about Michael protecting her, especially with their little tantrum going on.
Ántonia let out a hearty chuckle then flicked her hand in the air, “Whatever the more the merrier.” Ántonia said, gesturing for Lillian to follow them.
Ushima
08-24-2017, 07:55 PM
Michael was roused from his nap by Has banging on the cell door. "Wake up."
"Ah fuck." Michael cursed, standing up. "What now? Time to beat up more of your friends?"
"Boss lady wants to see the princess. And you're coming along. Actually you all are." Has led him down the stairs where he joined Ashira and Lillian.
"Hey. Guess we're going on a field trip." They were led back through the asteroid base to Simca's office. Michael was glad to see her office and bedroom were separate. He didn't want to go back and he certainly didn't want Ashira to be in there. She was mad enough that what happened went down the way it did. He didn't need her being in the den of sin to set her off even more.
Simca sat at a desk, her decorative shotgun on a stand on the table behind her. "So Princess Ashira." The Pirate Queen set down a data pad and interlaced her fingers, resting her chin on her hands. "Please take a seat. I know you've been wanting to speak with me."
AngelDellaNotte
08-27-2017, 06:08 PM
Walking into the office it was much nicer than where they had been staying. That should be expected given they were prisoners though it surprised her that Simca was keeping a member of the royal family in such quarters. Ashira walked around to the desk standing behind the chair resting her hands on the back of it debating whether or not she was going to sit down. In her years as a royal figure she knew very well that your actions spoke almost as loud as words and sometimes louder. She wanted to make sure she sent the right message. Sitting in the chair could mean that she was succumbing to Simca's demands or she could be sitting down to the negotiation table. Standing could show her authority as a royal or could be an act of defiance. The trick was to make sure her actions communicate her actions as she wanted. “I know you did not seek to capture us. That could work for your advantage.” Ashira said, moving around the chair leaning backing in it as she crossed her legs and folded her hands in her lap, being sure to sit up straight.
“Now you have several options, you could ransom us back to the Empress, you can let us leave or you could kill us.” Ashira said, tilting her head to the side never breaking eye contact with Simca. Behind her Lillian took a step closer to the chair standing a pace behind Ashira taking a protective stance but not one that would seem like Ashira needed it. More that she had the option behind her. “Two of those options are far from wise. The third perhaps is the only one that could keep you and your people alive. Ransoming me back to my mother could net you a profit if you don't mind looking over your shoulder the rest of your life. Believe me when I say the royal family is not very forgiving. Killing us, lets just both agree that would be an extremely bad idea. Once again the royal family is not forgiving. Which leaves us to the last option, letting us go. I suppose you are curious why I am traveling far from Yoran, with an Arturian pilot and one guard. Unfortunately I won't be telling you. Suffice to say I am on an important mission for the empire, and while this delay is undesirable it isn't all that damaging to the mission. If you were to release us this transgression against the Empire could be overlooked.”
Ushima
08-27-2017, 07:16 PM
"A special mission for the Empire with an Arturian pilot. So you are a defector." Simca smirked. "I love a man who could turn their back on everything they knew." Michael tightened his fist. There was no way in hell he'd ever turn traitor. "But you're right. I had no intention of scooping up the Princess. That was just a bonus. But it does leave me in an interesting situation. What am I going to do with you. I'm not foolish enough to try and contact the Empire to negotiate a price for your return. I doubt we'd walk out of that meeting alive. Killing you presents the same result. Your mother, the ferocious iron willed woman that she is, would send an entire armada in to wipe us out."
Michael leaned over to Ashira. "Our King has done that for a lot less. I would know I was on the lead ship."
Simca's fan hit Michael across the face. "Now is not your time to speak, pet. Your betters are talking." Michael brought a hand to his face, the corner of his mouth had some blood on it. He wiped it off with his thumb, looking at it for a second before wiping more, sticking his thumb into his mouth to clean it. "So I will let you go soon. But I'm keeping your ship, it's outfitted quite well. And I'm keeping these." Reaching into her desk she withdrew the Royal Seal cards and a small crown. "And him." Michael almost shot out of his chair in protest, had the guard's hand on his shoulder not kept him still. "He's proven an effective toy for now. Do we have an agreement?"
AngelDellaNotte
08-28-2017, 04:49 AM
When Simca lunged forward Michael was still near Ashira, Lillian's hand instantly dropped to where her weapon should have been. She glared at the pirate queen then relaxed her posture when she noticed the pirate had not struck at Ashira. Yes she hit Michael but Lillian still wasn't all that fond of him and he was able to take it. Now if he could just hold his tongue while Ashira worked. “I do not.” Ashira said, holding her hand up to stay Lillian. “And I hardly think you are in any position to make demands. You may hold us now but I hold all the cards. Your only choice is to release me or die. I will be leaving with my ship and my pilot.” Ashira said, standing up pointing to the cards and her crown. “These trinkets here you may keep them. Agree to my terms or you will die. It may not be now it may not be anytime soon but if you do not you are a marked woman with the force of the entire Yoran Empire biting at your heels. Sooner or later they will catch up with you.” Ashira didn't bother to mention that it could be more than just the Yoran Empire out for blood, both sides had agreed to this treaty and if it was brought down by a foolish pirate the wrath of both empires would fall on her.
“You may be bold enough to believe you can withstand that but will your men?” Ashira said, looking to the pirates in the room, Hass, Antonia and Lamario despite not knowing the last was actually a Yoran agent. “Will they follow you to a painful death or trade your live for theirs? I have heard it say there is no honor among thieves.” She gestured to the three pirates, “Tell me is that true?” Lillian watched Ashira thinking she was impressed with how the Princess handled the situation. Yes, she should have been trying to get Ashira to keep a low profile until Asher's men arrived but damn was Ashira proving she was a royal fit to have the name Idomi. Lillian thought for a moment that the Empress was standing before her and not her daughter.
Ushima
08-28-2017, 07:04 PM
"If you think I'm letting this fine specimen run off with you then think again." Simca crossed his arms. "You seem mighty interested in walking out of here with this pilot. What's so special about him? Do you lo-" Before Simca could finish her sentence the base rocked. Alarms sounded and red lights flashed. "What's going on!?"
A voice yelled over the radio. "Yoran ships! They found us!"
Michael rushed toward Simca. Lillian tackled Has. Lamario grabbed Ántonia and restrained her. The Arturian wrestled with the pirate queen. "Not so high and mighty without your men behind you huh?" He had her hands around her throat.
Simca smiled. "Should say the safe word we came up? Sea cucumber."
"You bitch. You really are crazy." Even now she was flirting with him. Getting her last digs at him. It filled him with rage and he tightened his grip. Eventually the life drained from the vile villainess. But Michael didn't let go. He held on, anger and resentment heavy in his eyes.
"Hey kid." Lamario's voice caused Michael to break out of his rage induced trance. "She's dead."
Michael turned and grabbed the shotgun off the table. He pointed it at Lamario. "Who are you? Why are you helping us!?"
AngelDellaNotte
08-31-2017, 04:07 AM
It took several hits for Lillian to drop Has to the ground and several more elbows to the face to knock him out. Ashira stood there looking around and trying to figure out what was going on. The base rocked a few more times almost knocking her from her feet. Lillian on the other hand barely managed to get to her feet in time to jump between Michael and Larmario the former holding a shotgun on the undercover agent. She held her hands up in the air, “Coran stand down.” Lillian said, looking down at the dead pirate queen. She hadn't expected Michael to kill her but it didn't completely surprise her. “He is one of ours. Larmario or rather Lt. Asher, 8th Special Forces division. He's been uncover on the station for an unrelated mission.” Lillian said, hoping Michael would lower the gun.
Ashira looked back and forth between Asher and Lillian an angry look on her face. “How long have you known this?” Ashira asked, it made sense now thinking about how Asher would pulled Lillian away. They had been plotting an escape. It bothered Ashira though that Lillian hadn't said anything about Asher. “And more importantly why didn't you say anything?”
“The room we were being held in was under surveillance I couldn't tell you about Asher without blowing his cover.” Lillian said, as the base rocked again and the sound of gunshots could be heard in the distance. “We need to get out of here.”
Ushima
09-02-2017, 07:33 PM
Michael turned the gun, firing it at a pirate that burst through the door to check on Simca. "We'll hash this out later Lets all get back to the ship."
Asher nodded. "Yes I will gladly answer any questions you have your highness."
The Arturian led them out of the office and through the halls, finding them clear for now. They did have one problem and that was not being here long enough to memorize the layout and get back to the ship. So Michael had to ask. "Which way to the hangar?"
"This way." Asher led them down another hall which ended with some stairs. "Down here then across the corridor and the hangar is right there."
Bullets hit the wall next to them. "Move!" Lillian pushed Ashira into the stairwell as Asher and Michael returned fire. They didn't stick around, dropping back into the stairwell and sealing the door. "Guess they found out the boss is dead."
"Quite a brutal way to go." Asher replied. "Didn't think you had it in you. Figured you did all you killing in the skies."
"I'm a man of many talents." The group moved down the stairs but Michael caught up to Ashira. He gave her a quick once over, seeing if she was alright. Satisfied she was unharmed he pressed forward. "Corridor is clear." They moved swiftly. Michael aimed down one hallway and Asher took the other as Lillian kept Ashira ducked down and moving. The hangar was clear when they walked in. A lot of ships had launched.
"Your ship is right here. They hadn't started the retrofits and paint job." Asher lowered the ramp. "Fair warning they might have adjusted your seat."
Michael handed off his trophy shotgun to Lillian. "The minute you fly out of that hangar they'll be all over you." He walked away, heading toward another ship. It was the very definition of a pirate ship (https://cdn.wcnews.com/newestshots/full/squadron42_10.jpg). Large and jagged, one of the wings had a large blade attached to cut through other ships. "I'm the best pilot so I'll cover you. Once you reach your people let me know and I'll break off. And do please inform them that I'm out there and not to shoot the pirate ship destroying the other ships."
"You're crazy!" Asher yelled.
"Tell me something I don't know!" The canopy closed over the Arturian. It took him a couple seconds to figure out the button layout. He fired up the engines and flew out of the hangar. The Valkyrie Raiders didn't go after him at first. "I want to try this blade out." Michael flew at another pirate ship. The blade cut through the hull like nothing, leaving an explosion behind. "That was amazing! Gotta ask the princess if she can get her hands on one of these and send it to me. Maybe a birthday present." After his stunt they turned on him. Michael. "You want to take on the Devil of Verdin!? Let's go!"
AngelDellaNotte
09-04-2017, 12:00 AM
Lillian shoved her into the stairwell and the momentum propelled her right into the wall. It hurt but she didn't have time to think on it as gun shots were heard. The asteroid base rocked again with more gunfire from the Yoran ships. You could tell that they were aiming their shots carefully knowing Ashira was on the base and not wanting to hurt her. They made it to the flight deck and found their ship. Ashira didn't like the idea of them splitting up but even with the Yoran fleet it would be hard to get out of the asteroid base. They would need some cover. As Michael ran to the fighter ship they headed to their ship. Lillian tried to get Ashira to buckle up in the crew compartment but the princess wasn't having it. She followed Asher to the bridge hoping the pirate knew how to fly this ship. Her mind was still blown that he was a Yoran soldier. Ashira paused on her way to the bridge turning to Lillian. “You knew all along who he was didn't you?” Ashira asked her bodyguard.
“I didn't recognize him at first but I figured it out.” Lillian said, “We served together on a couple missions when I was still with your brother's squad.”
“Yet, you didn't fell the need to let me or Michael know?” Ashira said, as the ship rocked a bit. Asher no doubt taking off though he wasn't as good of a pilot as Michael.
“I told you. The room we were being held in was under surveillance. I couldn't mention it to your without blowing Asher's cover.” Lillian said.
“And this was this part of his cover as well?” Ashira said, pointing to a hickey on Lillian's neck. “Had to make it believable I suppose.” She didn't wait for Lillian to answer walking to the bridge and sitting down next to Asher.
“YS Nightfall this is Raider 13, coming in hot with the packet.” Asher said, into the comms. “Be advised friendly among Valkyries. Piloting an old PR-277 modded with a blade.”
Ushima
09-08-2017, 04:07 PM
Michael glided the ship through the dangerous asteroid field as if it was nothing. This is what he loved. Fast ships, dangerous battlefield. He had never been more in his element than he was right now, it had been a long time. "Eat this!" With the press of a button he sent two missiles toward a target. The pirate ship exploded. Smirking Michael spotted another target with his eyes. It was heading toward the cargo ship. "Not on my watch." Due to the proximity to the ship he used the guns, explosive missiles near the princess was a bad idea.
Asher noticed an explosion off the the right and the PR-277 with Michael sail on by. "The Devil of Verdin seems to live up to his reputation ladies."
Michael picked up two tails. They chased him through the asteroids. "I'm not in a cargo freighter this time you fucks!"
"Seems our friend has left his comm open." Asher chuckled as they were joined by the Yoran forces.
"Time to pull out an old trick. It'll be easier this time cause of the blade." The trick was a very dangerous one that involved intentionally clipping your ship into a piece of floating debris. If two ships were in pursuit there was a chance they weren't directly behind you. The pirates were unfamiliar with proper pursuit formation. Michael edged his ship slightly to the right, the blade knocking into an asteroid and pushing it into the path of a pirate. With no time to react the ship hit the rock and exploded. "One more! Get off my ass you piece of shit I got a hot princess to get back too!" The pirate ship opened up with all it's weapons. Michael rolled the ship to avoid plasma and missiles. One missile was hard to shake.
"That fucker has tracking." Michael cursed repeatedly. "Does this thing have flares!? No! Shit!" The missile got closer and closer. "Guess it's time to play chicken." Michael steered the ship towards a large asteroid. "Gotta time this right." At the last second Michael pulled up, firing his weapons into the side. Debris came off the asteroid into the path of the missile. It exploded leaving Michael to let out a breath. "Ok I can unclench now. Woo!" Turning the ship he followed after the princess and flew into a battle carrier. Landing the PR-277 he popped the canopy and stood up, only to be met with soldiers pointing guns at him. Michael raised his hands. "Out of the frying pan I see..."
AngelDellaNotte
09-11-2017, 10:09 PM
The cargo ship landed on the deck of the carrier and Asher led them out of it. He saluted at the ramp of the cargo ship to an older man in a military uniform, “Captain Dolens permission to come aboard with her royal highness Princess Ashira Idomi.” Asher said.
The older man returned the salute and nodded. Asher then lead them down the ramp stepping aside for Ashira when they reached the bottom. “Your highness it is an honor and a surprise to receive you aboard my ship. Curious what you are doing this far away from the capital.” Captain Dolens said offering a bow then kissing Ashira's hand.
“The honor is mine Captain and I thank you for your timely aid.” Ashira said, looking over as Michael's ship landed on the deck. The sounds of the battle outside were dying down leading Ashira to believe that the pirates were either defeated or retreating. She thought that it was the end of the Valkyrie Raiders.
The Yoran soldiers on the deck surrounded the ship with their guns drawn and Captain Dolens stepped between Ashira and the ship. The cockpit opened and Michael stepped out to the sound of guns cocking around him. “Arrest that Arturian.” The Captain said.
“Belay that order.” Ashira said, stepping around the Captain. She walked toward the fighter noticing that all the soldiers still held their guns on him. “By order of the crown lower your weapons.” Ashira said, then turned to the Captain. “Captain Dolens, I am very grateful for your assistance but this man is a diplomatic escort on a mission far beyond your clearance. He will not be harmed or detained. We will require lodging for the evening while our ship is resupplied and will be departing in the morning.”
Ushima
09-16-2017, 03:57 PM
"As you were boys." Michael hopped down form the ship. Chuckling to himself the Arturian approached the princess. Throwing an arm around her shoulder he led her back to the pirate ship. "Ashira! Man this thing was awesome! I want one. Do you think you can get one for me? I'll give you my address and you can just leave it on the lawn that'd be fantastic."
"Not one for formality this one." Captain Dolens spoke.
Lillian rolled her eyes. "You have no idea sir."
Michael was busy telling Ashira about the battle, smiling the entire time at her, when Asher approached them. "Arturian. This is Captain Dolens. He was in charge of this mission."
"Captain." Michael extended his hand. "Sorry we got dragged into your assignment."
Dolens looked at his hand, then back up at Michael, then back at the hand again unsure of what to do. Then he looked over at the Princess. There was a member of the enemy faction right before him and instead of arresting him and dragging him in for interrogation he was being offered a friendly handshake. Dolens also noticed that Michael's left arm never left Ashira's shoulders. Hesitantly he returned the handshake. "That was some...impressive, flying out there."
"Thank you sir. It's what I'm good at. Been flying my entire life almost." Michael, still keeping his arm around the princess, looked around the hangar. "Impressive ship you got here."
AngelDellaNotte
09-30-2017, 04:19 AM
“Indeed we are very grateful for the assistance.” Ashira said, tactfully sliding out of Michael's arm and taking a step away from him. She folded her hands in front of her in a state of pose and grace. She shot Lillian a look that the bodyguard picked up right away. Lillian moved between Ashira and the pilot. “Though we have been through quite an ordeal the last few days, we would appreciate it if we could be shown to somewhere we could freshen up and rest.”
“Of course your highness.” Captain Dolens said, gesturing to a young woman standing not too far from him, “Lieutenant Harlon if you would show the Princess and her people to the ambassador suites.”
“Yes, sir.” Lt. Harlon said, leading Ashira and the others out of the hanger bay and through the ship. As they walked Lt. Harlon attempted to make small talk with the princess but she mostly answered with one word answers. When they arrived at the ambassador suites the lieutenant showed Ashira the main suite and then Lillian and Micheal the adjoining staff room.
Ashira walked into the main suite motioning for Michael to follow. “Thank you for the assistance Lieutenant now if you don't mind I would like to rest for a while.” The woman nodded then left, Ashira shut the door then turned to Michael. “What the hell was that?” Ashira asked, she was still a little upset about what had happened between Michael and Simca but what really angered her was how Michael had just behaved. “I understand that since this mission started we have gotten to know each other quite well but I am still a royal princess and you are an enemy combatant. Any soldier on this ship would kill you without even thinking twice. Our mission is classified so no knows how close to a treaty we are. As far as any of them know we are still at war. I cannot be seen to be gallivanting around the universe with a Arturian.”
Ushima
10-05-2017, 04:41 PM
Michael sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. He had forgotten. Forgotten that the treaty wasn't in place yet. The Arturian got so caught up in their friendship that everything around him didn't matter anymore. He liked being around the princess. It eased his mind now, especially with what he had just gone through. Michael was sure he'd need someone to lean on. But just because they enjoyed a friendship didn't mean everyone else would be okay with it. Especially since the circumstances of their relationship was unknown to all but a few select individuals. They wouldn't understand and they couldn't exactly come out and tell everyone. "I'm sorry."
He was, somewhat. Sorry that he acted without thinking about where they were and who surrounded them. Michael was sure the ship was now full of rumors about them by this point. Word travels fast around Starships. But on the other hand he wasn't all that sorry. If peace was to ever truly to be achieved Michael thought showing others that two people from either side could be friendly, could care about one another and form bonds. How deep those bonds were going was something Michael didn't want to think about right now. "You're right of course. I'll try to keep our friendship in check."
Only now that they were safe, well him not so much, on board a friendly, slightly hostile, ship did Michael realize how tired he was. Between being used as a pit fighter and being kept as sex slave and used against his will, the stress was starting to mount and exhaustion was setting in. Michael felt heavier and he couldn't help but let out a big, loud, tired yawn. He covered his mouth with his hand as he yawned. "I think we can all use some sleep not in prison cells don't you agree?" Michael made his way over to the staff rooms. "A real proper bed sounds wonderful. At least one without a psychotic rapey bitch in it. Which as far as I can tell this one is lacking thankfully." Michael chuckled. "Killed any desire to experiment with BDSM." Again, masking his pain and trauma with humor so other around him didn't worry. "I'll see you in a couple hours Ashira. Get some proper rest." With that he closed the door behind him and tossed himself into bed. He sighed as he relaxed and drifted off to a difficult slumber.
AngelDellaNotte
11-04-2017, 09:11 PM
Ashira, didn't say anything as Micheal left the room. She wasn't really sure what to say. He looked like he was hurting but she was at a loss for words. Lillian retired shortly after the pilot finally letting her guard down now that they were safely aboard a Yoran ship. Ashira laid down for a while getting a couple hours of sleep before there was a knock on her door. It was one of the ship's ensigns telling her that the Captain wanted to see her. The ensign guided her trough the large ship, Ashira had been on enough starships to know they were like small cities. It was quite easy to get lost on one.
The Captain's private offices were nice and large suiting someone of his rank. Captain Dolens was sitting at a large oak desk but stood when she entered the room. He walked around to her offering a quick bow before gesturing to a seating area. Ashira took a seat in an arm chair while Dolens paused for a moment then sat on the sofa. It would seem that she had just sat in his chair but technically she outranked him. “Once again I am thankful for the aid, Captain.” Ashira said, “We'll be out of your hair as soon as repairs to our ship are made.”
“Princess your ship is in very poor shape and no where near as secure as someone of your status should be traveling in.” Captain Dolens said, “My ship would be glad to escort you where ever your may be heading. Thinking of that it puzzles me that you are this far out in a cargo ship and with the devil of Verdin. Am I correct to assume he is a defector?”
“I'm sorry Captain but our mission is classified at the highest of level. I can't give you any details.” Ashira said, not sure who all she could trust being as they had been attack by Yoran forces on Haroni. Either way the less people who knew what they were doing the better. “Our ship is vital to our mission so while the escort is appreciated it would hinder our mission. Do your engineers have an idea of when our ship would be repaired enough to be flight worthy? Oh and if you could ask them to leave her a like rough looking it would be helpful.”
“They should be done in a couple hours.” Captain Dolens said, wishing Ashira would tell him more of her mission but didn't press it. “Oh and we recovered this on the pirate station.” He motioned over to the ensign who walked over to them carrying a tray with a crown in his hands. “I believe this is a family heirloom.”
“Indeed it is.” Ashira said, lighting up. She was never really fond of some of the traditions that came with being a royal such as the fascination with crowns but she also knew how much of a symbol the crown was. That and it had belonged to her great grandmother. She chatted a while for a while with the captain about really nothing aside from him trying to figure out their mission a few more times. Then she retired back to her suite.
Ushima
11-06-2017, 08:36 PM
The Arturian pilot settled into the bed fitfully after his small talk with the princess. The inky blackness of unconsciousness was filled with the maniacal sound of Simca's laughter. The grotesque groans as she contrived her sick twisted pleasure. He remembered how her hands felt traveling his skin. His mind conjuring horrid visions of being bound, tentacles of torture gripping his wrists and legs holding him in place while the evil woman sought her own gains. Never before had he felt so helpless. Unable to do nothing more than sit there, lay there, not knowing if at any time she could snap and slit his throat or smother him with one of her decorative pillows. Pillows that were designed to provide comfort could have easily been the instrument of his helpless demise. The Pirate Queen's face loomed over him, laughing seductively, insanely as she leaned in and claimed his lips in an fierce heated kiss.
Michael sat up in bed. His body was covered in a cold sweat and he was breathing heavily as if he had just ran a marathon. Forcing himself up out of bed he stumbled out of his chambers and into the main room. He didn't know if Lillian or Ashira were in, their doors were closed so he assumed they were resting. Grabbing a glass out of the cabinet and moved to the sink. After filling it with water he took a few sips. "You look like shit." Michael spun around to see Asher sitting at the table. "Bad dream?"
"Fucking nightmare." Michael drained the glass and set it on the counter top. "Three guess what it was about. First two don't count."
"Yes the former leader of the former Valkyrie Raiders doesn't leave pleasant memories." Asher replied.
Michael leaned against the counter and crossed his arms. "What are you doing here?"
"Keeping an eye on the place. You more specifically." The Yoran stood up, holding a small clear object and went to grab a glass of his own. "Captain made it known you were untouchable on board." Asher grabbed Michael's empty glass.
Michael scratched the back of his head. "But you think some might ignore orders and take a shot huh? I can handle myself."
"In a ship you can." Asher poured a dark yellow liquid into both glasses. "But these aren't space pirates or old soldiers out of practice. And with where your head is right now..." Asher let the sentence hang, knowing Michael could fill in the blanks. "Think you could get back to sleep?"
"Not right now." Asher held out the glass and Michael took it. Both men clinked glasses before knocking back the liquor. "That's good."
The older man agreed. "Get changed. I can take you somewhere to blow off some steam."
Michael sighed. "I'm not in much of a mood for that right now."
Chuckling Asher pushed Michael toward his room. "Won't find much of that on board here. Just hurry." Once he was by himself Michael changed out of his sweat covered clothes. Sliding into a pair of white pants and a red shirt he rejoined Asher in the main room. Both men left the quarters and moved deeper into the ship. "I couldn't help but notice that you seemed more like yourself when you got out of the PR. Seems flying is quite therapeutic for you. Which is why I'm going to put you in one of the simulators. Help you relax."
"Sure you're ok with me seeing what toys you have?" Michael smirked.
Asher didn't take the bait. "You'll be flying older model Yoran ships from the beginning of the war. Models I'm sure your government has long since examined." Michael nodded and entered the training room. Four simulator machines were set up in a plus formation so they were linked up together by a central computer. A few troops spared them a curious glance.
"I heard he defected." One of them whispered to the other.
"The Devil of Verdin a defector? No shit." They replied.
A large man came into view. Asher called out to him. "Instructor Bashir (https://www.pinterest.com/pin/162411130290018435/)." He was wearing old armor, a sign of veteran status clearly, with scars on his face, bald and an officers hat on. "This is the man I was telling you about."
Bashir grinned. "The Devil of Verdin. Thank you for helping assist with my class."
"Wait what?" Michael looked to Asher. "Explain."
"In order to get you into a simulator I had to work you into the training program." Asher patted Michael on the back. "You don't mind going helping current pilots train while using outdated ships do you?"
"If you're worried about showcasing all your tricks I'll say this. Most of what you used during the war is on file." Bashir laughed. "Have fun."
Michael sighed again and hopped in the chair. The schematics of his "ship" appeared as the canopy closed around him. "An old RS Mk II (https://www.pinterest.com/pin/303993043582140144)? Great, this things a tank. What am I up against?" Michael checked the readouts. It wasn't the base Yoran fighters he knew but ships that really gave him a run for his money whenever he did fly against them. Michael didn't know their name but the Arturians referred to them as Iron Eagles (https://www.pinterest.com/pin/840765824157180870/). "Great."
A woman slid up to Asher's side. "Hey Asher?" She had messy blonde almost white hair. Leather pants, boots and short leather jacket with patches that exposed a red bra. On her shoulders was decorative armor. To complete her gear was a necklace with three bullets on it. Clearly the woman wasn't worried about uniform infractions.
"What do you want Sadie (https://www.pinterest.com/pin/31032684909871368/)?" Asher asked as he helped Bashir boot up the training scenario.
"What do you think his chances are?" Sadie asked.
"As good as anybody's I guess. The Mk IIs aren't bad ships so it'll be interesting to see what he does with one." Asher loaded the scenario. Two warships were trading fire. "Ok combatants listen up. The enemy, Mr. Devil here, has just stolen top secret information from the command ship. Your mission is to shoot him down before he makes it back to his Dreadnought."
Sadie scratched her chin. "Do you think the princess should know what we're doing with her new play toy?"
"Don't go letting your mind wander with those ridiculous theories Sadie." Asher put the finishing touches to the scenario. "Combatants ready?"
Michael looked over the controls. "Simple enough. Get to safety with only three Iron Eagles in my way. I'm ready!"
Asher started the countdown. "In three...two...one...begin!"
AngelDellaNotte
11-18-2017, 09:58 PM
When she got back to their suites Ashira thought about laying down again and resting some more but wasn't really that tired. She walked in and noticed that Lillian's door was closed, she probably was still sleeping. The bodyguard hadn't slept much while they were being held captive. Ashira had figured it was Lillian wanting to keep guard. She hadn't asked about it knowing Lillian wouldn't budge on the matter. Looking over to Micheal's room she noticed that his door was open and the pilot wasn't in. On the table in the common room was a couple empty glasses and a bottle. She walked over to the bottle and picked it up giving it a quick smell, it was some potent liquor. Ashira took a quick swig of the bottle and swallowed, feeling it burn down her throat.
She shook her head and walked from the room wondering where Micheal had gone. She didn't think he would just go wandering around a ship of Yoran soldiers which made her think he was with Asher. Now just to figure out where he went, they could have gone to the ship's mess hall or the gym but neither of those sounded right. She stepped outside the room and noticed a couple of soldiers standing out of the door. No doubt Dolens had put a security detail on her. She wondered if he had done the same to Micheal. She looked at the soldiers, “Do you know where Lieutenant Coran went?” Ashira asked.
The soldier pulled out a tablet and looked at it a moment then said, “Training desk two, your highness.”
“Can you take me there?” Ashira asked, the soldier nodded and guided her through the ship until they reached the training deck. Inside she saw several training simulators, she looked at a monitor seeing the simulation as well as the views from each of the planes and their pilots. Micheal was sitting in a lone ship facing off against the Yoran pilots. Ashira noticed Asher standing near the monitors with another woman. “Lieutenant Asher.” Ashira said.
“Your highness.” Asher said, looking from the simulator to Ashira, “Just letting him blow off a little steam. All of you went through quite a bit while you were being held captivate some more than others.”
She nodded knowing what had been through with the pirate queen. To be honest she didn't know how to talk to him about. She walked toward the monitors taking in the battle and looking over the mission objectives. It was a standard training simulation that was used for an intermediate class. Looking it over she realized that it was far too simple of a mission to a pilot of Micheal's skill. “You are going too easy on him.” She looked around room noticing a four more pilots standing off to the side near a few more simulators. “Go ahead boys strap in and run the delta four formation switching to gamma three once he takes the bait.”
Ushima
11-20-2017, 09:35 PM
The simulated ship started it's journey flying out of the hangar. 'Pilot controls engaged in three...two...one. Simulation initiated.'
Michael gripped the controls. "Alright lets fuck'em up."
Asher heard Michael's comment through the cockpit mic. The other pilots couldn't hear him and vice versa, but they could communicate with the instructors outside. Asher pressed the button to speak to Michael. "Remember this is just a data extraction. You can win without fighting if you want."
"Where's the fun in that?" Those outside heard Michael chuckle. Asher saw the grin spread on the Arturian's face on the face cam. Over on the other side of the console more face cams flicked on as the additional pilots got strapped in and set off. Asher let go of the button. "Have fun mate."
Sadie nudged Asher's shoulder. "With these odds I got fifty creds on our guys."
"I'll take that action." Asher replied.
"Easy money." A confident smile danced across her lips. "What about you your highness? Want in? We can make a killing betting on these matches."
~
There was a large battle playing out in the distance but it was merely background aesthetics. All he had to worry about was flying through a debris field. In front of him sat his "command ship" that he had to fly into in order to win and somewhere out there were three ships hunting him down. The enemy didn't waste any time though. His screen lit up, detecting a missile coming his way. With quick reflexes the ship turned and the missile sailed by hitting a piece of bulk head. Red bolts flew past his canopy as he picked up a fighter on his tail. The chase was on. The Mk II flew past the debris as it was hunted. Michael knew there were two more to worry about and that they were trying to set him up in a flank. "Where are you?"
~
Sadie smirked. "They got him. The threeway always works."
Asher shook his head. "Only because they don't know what's going on. He's figured out what they're trying to do even if he doesn't know how exactly."
~
His only chance was finding one of the other ships first. It was a slim chance but one he had to take. Every time he tried to deviate his course the ship behind him would pepper him with fire to keep him on a desired course. One he saw was taking him towards a destroyed corvette that had two separate pieces floating in space. Two large pieces of ship more than capable of hiding Iron Eagles. "That's your play huh? I got you." Michael spotted a flash of white engine glow off to his left disappearing behind the wreckage. "There you are. Ok fucker I've had enough of you tailgating." Slamming on the brakes his ships slowed drastically. The Iron Eagle jerked and deviated to avoid the collision. Michael used the opening and flew to the left, over the aft of the ship. Sitting there was his prize. he fired with the two front mounted guns, watching as the simulated ship exploded.
~
A light above on of the simulation cockpits turned red and the hatch opened up. The pilot threw her hands up. "Damn it!"
Sadie clicked her tongue. "Still have the number advantage."
~
With one down Michael turned the ship toward the other Iron Eagle that was supposed to be lying in wait. It was faster than his ship so he knew he had to act fast or it would slip away. "Give me a good lock." A red reticle was trying to zero in on the ship as it was pulling away. "Come on!" Once it turned green he pressed the button. The MK II had in frame missile launchers and two, one on either side, fired. It didn't take them long to find their target. "One more." Michael scanned the area. "Radar isn't picking it up. Can't stay here either." Michael steered the MK II toward the command ship. "Where are you?"
The answer came in a hail of weapons fire from in front of him. Cursing loudly he went into a dive to avoid it. "That's way too many for one ship." Ahead of him, standing between him and the goal line, was a line of four ships. "So you got friends huh? Very well. I got something for ya! Open all weapons!" Along with the two front mounted guns and missile pods the MK II came with two more cannons near the canopy and a vulcan gun below. Michael pushed down on the throttle and flew towards the ships that started flying towards him. They fired on him and he sent the ship into a spin, firing of the weapons.
~
Sadie blinked as she watched what was going on. "What the hell is that?"
"One of his signature moves. The Death Spiral." Asher chuckled at Sadie as she watched, mouth agape, as Michael's insane move was put into action. "Better we see it here in the sims rather than in open combat don't you think?"
"Jeez." She huffed, crossing her arms. "That boy of yours sure has some ridiculous plans princess."
Asher looked over the screens. Happy to see his idea was working. Michael seemed much more relaxed now than when they started. He was having fun and not focusing on the evil Pirate Queen. He glanced at Ashira to see if she was seeing the same thing he was.
~
Caught off guard by the insane maneuver the ships broke off. Three off them were caught by missile and were taken out and the fourth was quickly zeroed in on and shot down. "In the clear." Was what he said before a few rounds hit his hull. "What!?" Another ship buzzed his canopy. Unlike the other Iron Eagles this one was painted a dark flat black color with one gold line painted down the right side. "Custom paint job huh? Must be some sort of big deal." Michael flexed his fingers before tightening his grip on the controls. "But so am I." Michael's exuberant grin turned into a smile of pure delight at the prospect of a proper one on one dog fight.
~
The pilots who had been eliminated gathered around other view screens. "He's up against Harlow now." One of them said.
"Oh Harlow's in there?" Sadie perked up. "This will be a good fight. Harlow's another Ace."
"Yeah but so is the Devil in there. Two Aces going against on another." Asher hit a few buttons. "Lets make things more interesting."
~
An arc of lightning surged through space nearly hitting his ship. "Damn it are you kidding me?" The pieces of debris were starting to collide creating sudden discharges. Both pilots had to be on top of their game now. Michael had a harder time dodging sudden bolts as his ship wasn't nearly as nimble as the other. The black and gold ship coming back around and Michael guided his ship in between some debris. More large pieces hit and the bolt ripped through field, bouncing off the floating pieces of metal. Harlow's fighter swerved gracefully out of the way. Which was just what Michael was counting it, firing at the Iron Eagle. But his shots were avoided. "Need to be clever here." Both ships danced around each other. Harlow's ship managed to sneak behind Michael's MKII, it was faster, more agile and able to out maneuver the Arturian.
"Only a matter of time before he gets a good lock." Michael ran through his remaining arsenal. "One rocket left." A bolt of lightning interrupted his scheming. "Wait. That's it." Harlow dodged the bolt easily and resumed chase. "It's easy to dodge when you see it coming huh." Michael flew towards a piece of debris. Unlike a ship there was nothing to lock on to. No heat signature. Lining up his shot (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cV_ZvMV2MM0) Michael felt rounds hit his shields but ignored it. The Arturian took a deep breath and as he exhaled fired the missile and sped up. It hit the side of what was once a ship's main gun. The force of the detonation pushed it into another large piece. Michael was safely past it when they hit. "Dodge that!" The bolt shot out, striking Harlow's ship. The controls of the Iron Eagle were fried as it floated there. Michael double backed and unloaded into it. He left a fireball in his wake as he soared into the open hangar of the command ship.
The computer announced the end of the battle. 'Simulation complete. Mission success.'
Sadie's jaw dropped. "I...I don't believe it. How? How was that possible?"
"He's good. Devilishly good. How many troops do you think are going to be in here trying that move now." He watched as Michael's pod started to open. "You owe me fifty credits." Michael stood up in his pod. He had a slight layer of sweat on his brow as he looked around the room. The Yoran soldiers were staring at him, some impressed others annoyed that he won. But he paid them no mind as his eyes landed on Ashira and he gave her a gentle, friendly smile.
AngelDellaNotte
11-26-2017, 10:14 AM
Watching as the pilots went through their checks Ashira listened to Asher and Sadie catch back and forth a smirk on her face. When Sadie brought up the bet she looked over to her, “As much as I would like to I don't think it would be proper.” Ashira said, truth was she couldn't really bet on either of them. If she bet on her troops it would be good for moral but it would be bad for Michael's moral and he was in a bad mental state. If she bet on Michael it wouldn't look good for her troops. It would be best to not to join in. That and if it came down to it she would put her money on Michael. She watched the battle realizing early on that Michael was on the winning side. The Arturians had really sent their best pilot.
When the hatches opened Ashira watched each of the pilots exit their simulators a smile on her face at Michael's face and awe on the pilots, well all but one (https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BMTc1MzU4NTI0NV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwOTc4NzQ4MzE@._ V1_SY1000_SX665_AL_.jpg). The senior pilot walked over to Michael, “Nice flying,” She said, to Michael holding her hand out to shake it. “Crazy and stupid but nice flying. I'm...”
“Harlow Quincey, youngest pilot to ever come off the ice rock otherwise known as Gui.” Ashira said, walking over to Harlow and embracing her.
“If it isn't the royal brat.” Harlow said returning the hug and patting Ashira on the back.
“I take it you two know each other?” Sadie said, a little surprised at Harlow calling Ashira a royal brat. Most people seemed to have air of reverence for her, even those used to being around royalty.
“Ah yes, Harlow likes to spend her off time from deployments teaching SERE classes. If you could call that downtime. Four planets, six climates no supplies for eight weeks, everyone's idea of a dream vacation. I had the unfortunate luck of being in her class. Harlow never treated me any different because I was a princess nor did she ever let me forget.” Ashira said, as she recalled her first experience to Gui not in the protective domes (https://i.pinimg.com/564x/84/10/3a/84103a9b91a8f18dfb37f2b840d49489.jpg) that people lived in. Gui was a frozen planet that was mostly inhospitable, most people who lived there lived in protective biodomes. The planet was rich in minerals and a good source of mining.
“Ah but you forget I was sleeping in a category 3 portable biodome. (https://i.pinimg.com/564x/35/9b/66/359b66ef7f1a03b228a63c752adf905f.jpg) It was a balmy 73 degrees every nice with my own bed. Not to mention my own capacino machine and the chance to yell at recuits, especially royal ones. As for being tough on your braty highness if I had gone easy on you would you have learned anything?” Harlow asked, with a large smile on her face and her arm still around Ashira. Since the end of her training class Ashira kept in touch with Harlow and they quickly became friends. After Ashira was assigned to the think tank Harlow began sending her footage and data from many of the different battles she and her fellow pilots were in to be studies. Many of the attack formations used by Yoran forces were created in her lab.
“God I would have killed for a cup of that coffee and yes you are right I wouldn't have learned anything. I didn't think you were due for rotation for another four months. The Nightfall has been on deployment for two months already.” Ashira said, knowing that Harlow must have volunteered for an extra rotation.
“Yeah, I got tried going on camping trips and wanted to get back into the seat.” Harlow said, “I'm sure the Devil understands how addicting being in the cockpit can be. You know my first assignment was to Verdin, but I don't think I ever crossed paths with you.”
Ushima
11-28-2017, 07:50 PM
Michael stepped out of the simulation pod, nearly tripping as his foot caught the edge. "Whoa. The sides are a little higher than ours."
"Good job. You made me fifty credits richer." Asher laughed at Sadie's sour expression. Michael returned the praise with a thumbs up.
"Cheeky move throwing more pilots my way. And the static discharge from the debris." Michael crossed his arms and leaned against the pod. At that moment Harlow joined the group. The Arturian was surprised at how close she was with the Princess. But it was nice seeing two friends reconnect. It made Michael miss his home a bit.
What the Yoran Ace said next surprised him. “I'm sure the Devil understands how addicting being in the cockpit can be. You know my first assignment was to Verdin, but I don't think I ever crossed paths with you.”
"Good thing, you'd be dead if you did. Verdin was not a good deployment for rookies three years ago. Especially the three months I was there, not to sound boastful or anything." Three years ago was a particularly tough year in the war. It would shift, sometimes Arturia gaining ground, sometimes Yoran. Sometimes months would stretch with no ground being won or other times both sides would ramp up their assaults. "So you must've been recalled before I got there or arrived after I left."
Asher turned to Sadie. "Why don't you and Harlow take Michael to get something to eat back at his quarters. I need to speak with her majesty."
"Sure. We can talk there. Right this way." The rebellious soldier and the Ace led Michael away.
Now alone Asher looked over the princess. "Well I'm happy to see he doesn't shy away from female companionship. Which is good since he's going to be spending a lot of time with you and Lillian. Him twitching every time one of you speaks or pokes him on the shoulder isn't good. You need to talk with him. That or make him see a professional to at least let him talk through it."
~
"Bring three meals to the guest suites." Harlow hung up the comms. Michael was sitting in a large chair and Sadie sat on the couch, feet resting on a coffee table. Harlow joined her comrade but didn't put her feet up. "So what do you call that move? The one where you spin your ship and fire everything."
Michael was in the middle of taking a sip of water when he was asked a question. "Oh." He set the glass down. "I call it the Death Spiral. Others have referred to it as the Rotation of Doom. Death Roll. Dead Spin-Cycle. The list goes on."
Sadie popped up with a question. "What's it like travelling with the princess?"
Michael suppressed a smile. He couldn't tell them how much he liked being around Ashira and how great a time they had talking. "Not bad actually. It's pretty laid back, the way I like it. Doesn't talk much to me."
"That's because you talk enough for all three of us." Lillian's voice floated over the back of his chair.
"And then there's that one. Such a ray of sunshine isn't she?" Lillian mumbled something and stomped off toward the bathroom. "I don't think she likes me."
Sadie shook her head. "What was your first clue?" A been signaled someone at the door. "Food's here." Michael stood to answer but Sadie beat him to it so he sat back down. It was for the best if he didn't interact too much with the personnel. Sadie returned not long after and handed them their trays. "Eat up, it's good. We have the best cook in the fleet."
Michael grabbed a biscuit off his tray. "Sounds promising."
AngelDellaNotte
11-30-2017, 02:08 AM
Sitting at his desk Dolens drank a cup a tea looking out the port window of his office. It was an endless mass of stars, they weren't near any planets and the only thing up close was the asteroid field. On his mind was the princess and what she was doing here in the company of an Arthurian and just one guard. She had told him it was above his clearance but it still didn't sit right with him. Something was off about the whole thing. He looked over hearing a comm unit on his desk chirp. Turning to it he activated the comm unit his aid appearing on the screen. “Sir, you have a priority call.” The aid said.
“Who is it?” Dolens asked, he hadn't wanted to be disturbed and had requested not to be. Whoever was on this priority call better be important or his aid was getting it.
“Unknown but it is coming across the omega channel.” The aid said, not wanting to upset his boss but at the same time knowing that he couldn't ignore a omega channel message.
“Put it through.” Dolens said, the image of his aid disappearing and being replaced with one of an older man (https://i.pinimg.com/564x/20/36/96/203696f88794adefbb5f476bfa16b61c.jpg), dressed in fine clothes. It was the same man who had talked to Lawrence on Haroni. Captain Dolens had never met the man but he knew who he was. Senator Kravitz, a prominent politician and if he had it his way the next on the throne. “Senator to what do I owe this honor to?” Dolens said.
“Captain Dolens it is my understanding that you have a rather important guest on your ship. Of the royal variety.” Kravitz said, a smug look on his face as he sat at a desk templing his hands together.
“Yes, she seemed to have gotten to a mess with Valkyrie Pirates but trust me they won't be causing anymore problems for anyone. The Princess can resume her mission as soon as the repairs to their ship are made.” Dolens said, taking another drink of her tea.
“A mission? Is that what she told you?” Kravitz said, clinching his fists. “Captain Dolens, Princess Ashira is not a classified mission from the crown. Whatever she has told you is a lie. She's traveling in the company of an Arthurian pilot, flying in an Arthurian ship, she's defecting. Captain Dolens, I cannot stress enough how much of a danger to the Empire it would be if we lost her. Aside from the fallout from a royal defecting Princess Ashira was a member of one of the most advanced think tanks in the military. She before fleeing the capital the princess copied a classified hard drive. It is imperative that we do not let Ashira or that hard drive fall into enemy hands.”
Dolens paused for a few moments setting his tea down on the table thinking over what he had just been told. The princess defecting could be disastrous for the Yoran Empire. He just couldn't imagine why she would want to defect. “I'll have her and her crew arrested at once.” Dolens said.
“No, we cannot let her know that we are onto her. We could risk her transmitting the data from those drives to the Arthurians. I need you to stall her until my forces arrive. You said that repairs were being made to her ship, see to it that those repairs are delayed.” Kravitz said. “My people will be in touch.”
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“I don't know what I would say to him.” Ashira said, knowing that Asher was right. Micheal would need to deal with whatever Simca did to him. But she had no clue how to help him. Talking would help but how do you do that? She couldn't just walk up to him and say, 'So that was some crazy stuff that happened with Simca huh?' Ships this large and close to the front always had a counselor or two aboard. Perhaps getting Micheal to talk to one of them would be helpful. “Asher you are assigned to this ship, is there a counselor who you trust? The less people who know about what we are doing the better.” Ashira said, to which Asher nodded.
“Yeah, I know someone.” Asher said.
“Good, go get them and meet us in our rooms.” Ashira said, as Asher nodded and left. The guard who had been guiding her led her back to the rooms where she found Micheal, Sadie and Harlow sitting around eating.
“Speak of the royal brat.” Harlow said, looking up at her. “I think one of the reasons I've always liked our princess here is she's not stuck up like other royals. Not that I know that many royals but I've known my fair share of nobles. Shame you aren't next in line for the throne.”
“Casper isn't that bad.” Ashira said with a smile on her face. She turned to Micheal her smile fading. “Micheal can I talk with you?” She gestured to her room and then walked into waiting for Micheal to follow. She sat down on a chair in the room looking at the floor then to Micheal. “Micheal, I know bad things happened to you on the asteroid. I can't even imagine what she did to you. Asher knows someone you can talk to about it.” Ashira said, reaching out and lightly touching his arm.
Ushima
12-04-2017, 08:28 PM
Lillian simply raised an eyebrow at the two but said nothing. Michael followed the princess into the room. He didn't sit down, choosing to remain standing in front of her. What surprised him was when she brought up what happened, mentioning that there was someone he could talk to about it. "Wow we're doing this now. Ok um..." Michael, caught off guard, scratched the back of his head. "It was pretty bad. And you're probably right I do need to speak with someone, anyone, at this point."
The bell over the door chimes again so Lillian went to answer it. Asher was there with someone else in tow. "Seems it's a party."
"Sorry for the intrusion but I have retrieved the doctor per her majesty's instructions." Asher answered.
Lillian looked past Asher to eye an older man in a clean, simple uniform, short dark hair anda data pad tucked under his arm. "Come in then."
The doctor entered. "My name is Julian Troy (https://www.pinterest.com/pin/Aa5aYrHlmgsDsDIc9xTHml_WGUVjlbHAbaqNox1V5rO9DPXULA 3Xmh4/). I'm glad you came and got me when you did. I was told only a little bit of the extent of the patient's trauma and by the sound of it the chance of it developing further seems possible."
Asher turned to face the doctor. "What do you mean?"
"Right now keeping him busy keeps his mind off the subject of his trauma. But soon I believe that will loose it's effectiveness." Doctor Troy tapped on his pad. "You also said he wasn't reacting negatively to female attention or contact which indicates that, for now, he's not projecting his trauma. If this goes unresolved it's only a matter of time before his mind makes him see Simca everywhere and eventually he will lash out at the source of his pain."
Lillian spoke up. "And that could be anyone. Me. Them." She gestured over her shoulder to the two pilots who were uncharacteristically quiet. "Or the princess." The bodyguard looked into the princess' bedroom. Ashira was saying something to Michael before guiding him out of her quarters. "You two need to leave now." Harlow and Sadie obeyed without question.
Michael stood in the living room. "Lieutenant Michael Coran, My name is Julian Troy. Do you mind if I call you Michael? I find it easier if we can address each other informally."
"Yeah that works for me doc." Michael and the doctor shook hands.
"Please have a seat." Doctor Troy asked Asher and Lillian to also vacate the room. Then he pulled Ashira aside. "Your highness is there anything you need to inform me of before I ask you to give me and Mr. Coran here some privacy to talk"
AngelDellaNotte
12-07-2017, 11:11 PM
Dolens was still sitting in his office looking out the window, his tea in his hand untouched. The comm unit chirped yet again. His aid appeared again, apparent that he wasn't pleased to have to be interrupting the captain again. “Sir, you have another Omega call coming through.” The aid said.
The captain nodded his head the image of the aid disappearing and being replaced with a young man with a stern and hardened face. (https://i.pinimg.com/564x/be/88/27/be882714f8e1701f04129ec05b7f9531.jpg) “Captain, I am Inquisitor Finnegan. The senator has dispatched my team to recover the Princess. My team will arrive in the next two hours. We will need to arrive in an unmanned hanger. You will pull all your men away from the Princess. My team will take custody of the Princess without any interference. We already have blue prints of your ship and you will update us on the location of the princess. If she moves you will relay it to us.” Finnegan said, then cut the comm line before Dolens could reply. The Captain wasn't liking being told what to do by this Inquisitor but he know better than go against him. The senator no doubt had sent an elite squad to get the princess, they would follow their orders regardless if he aided them or not. It would be much better for him if he did.
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She nodded to Julian, not at all sure what she could say to help him. “No, just thank you for helping.” Ashira said, leaving the room. She stopped in the living room noticing the others had left with only her, Lillian and Asher left. “Asher would you be kind enough to walk me to the Captain's office? I wish to check on the status of our ship.” She still wasn't familiar with the layout of the ship and wasn't sure she would be able to find it on her own. No doubt there was still a guard stationed outside but she rather have Asher take her. She had gotten quite fond of him and was well aware of how Lillian felt about him.
“Of course your highness.” Asher said, leading the way with Ashira and Lillian following behind.
When they reached the Captain's office he seemed a little nervous and surprised to see her. “Ah yes, your ship. It isn't quite ready yet.” The Captain said, seeming to reach for a reason. “It would seem that your ship's engine was hit with blast from the pirates. My mechanics are still working on it.” That was a lie, they had finished about thirty minutes ago but he needed to stall. “I will update you as soon as we know more. Now, if you don't mind Princess I believe it would be best if you waited in your quarters. I don't want to rile up my crew too much.” He had heard about the flight simulation with Michael and his pilots. The whole ship couldn't stop talking about it. Plus, it would be easier and less intrusive for Agent Finnegan to take the Princess in her quarters.
“Of course, Captain. I don't want to cause any problems on your ship.” Ashira said, letting Asher lead them them back to their quarters.
On the way they passed Sadie and Harlow the two of them chatting in the hallway outside of the rec room. “Oh Princess, good to see you before you guys left. I imagine you will be leaving as soon as Michael is done. Now that your ship is finished.”
“My ship isn't finished.” Ashira said, a little confused since the captain had told her it wasn't ready yet. She paused her mind processing the information then turned to Lillian. “We need to get Michael. They've found us.” Lillian nodded then took point in front of Ashira as they headed back to the rooms, the bodyguard also thinking about the squad that had been following them.
Ushima
12-12-2017, 04:51 AM
"That is...quite a tale Michael." Julian jotted some notes down.
"Normally I'd have fought off a guard and shot my way out but..." Michael's fists clenched and his jaw tightened. "But I just couldn't do that this time."
Dr. Julian Troy found his thread. "And why was that? What was different this time around?"
Michael was quiet for a moment. "I...I had the princess to think about. And Lillian. I couldn't put her at risk with my actions. Protecting her is priority number one."
"You had others relying on you. Your situation is very strange. An Arturian traveling with a member of the Royal Family." Dr. Troy looked up from the pad. "Do you perhaps blame them, subconsciously, for what happened? If they weren't there you could have acted any way you wished without worrying about repercussions from the nobility of the planet."
"That's ridiculous." With a huff Michael was out of his chair. "I'd never blame Ashira. It's my duty to protect her and complete the mission. Ah shit." The pilot cursed himself and his tongue that spoke faster than his min.
"So there's a mission?" Troy dug into his pocket and pulled out a plastic ID card. "This is my security clearance. My job requires me to keep secret information secret as many under my care have problems stemming from their assignments. Doctor patient confidentiality."
"This mission is very stressful." Michael reached up and rubbed his face. "I'll probably sleep for weeks once it's over with and we're on Arturia." Sighing Michael returned to his seat. "Alright. Doctor patient confidentiality right? My mission. Our mission. Is to get Ashira to Arturia. Right now delegates are ironing out a treaty. Ashira is to be married to Prince Casius. They, and their inevitable child, will help pave the way for a new era of peace and prosperity for our people."
Troy let out an impressed whistle. "That's a lot of pressure. And a lot riding on your soldiers. You are essentially delivering peace." Michael scoffed and looked away. "Scoff all you want but this is an important task. You became dedicated to protecting Ashira not just for her sake, but for the sake of her people and yours."
"You're awful calm about the idea of peace Doc." Michael replied.
"Fifty years is a long time for people to be fighting and I've seen what it does to the minds of those caught up in it." Dr. Troy set his pad down. "Michael. You are a strong man with a monumental task on your shoulders. Now you must talk with Ashira-" Before the doctor there came a knock on the door which was the only warning both men had before it opened and a slightly out of breath Ashira and Lillian entered. "Speak of the devils."
Lillian spoke first. "We need to leave. That hit squad tracked us down."
AngelDellaNotte
12-25-2017, 04:22 AM
The two of them raced back to their room doing their best not arouse suspicion. They hadn’t been arrested yet making Ashira think the Captain was trying to keep them unaware that the Omega squad was on the way. Taking them by surprise sounded just like how the Omega squad liked to work. They worked in the shadows and very few really knew anything about them. Mostly they were a ghost story told to new recruits. Due to her position and royal status Ashira had been read in on the Omega Squads knowing that most of the stories were true. They had to find a way off this ship and soon. Ashira was so focused on the Omega squad she didn’t realize that a very confused Harlow and Sadie had followed them back to the suites. Lilian nearly knocked the door down getting the news to Michael. It was then that Ashira noticed the others, to get off this ship they would need help. She was sure she could rely on Harlow but she didn’t know anything about Sadie. Asher seemed to trust her and she had grown to trust him. “I need your help.” Ashira said, turning to Harlow. “What I am about to ask will amount to treason but I give you my word you will be okay.”
Harlow looked to Ashira ready to trust the princess without a question, she was a woman the soldier trusted and her word meant something. However Sadie didn’t know her and looked a little skeptical. “You know I would do anything for you.” Harlow said.
“I know thank you.” Ashira said, then turned to Sadie. “I know everyone on this ship is wondering what I am doing this far from the capital with an Arturian. You’ve only been told that it is classified. Not even your captain knows why. In fact only those in this room know. And Asher. I am on a secret mission by orders of the Empress to travel to Arturia to wed Prince Casius after signing a peace treaty. The war is going to end and soon. However my mother believes there are those in the government who don’t want this war to end. Her suspicions have been proven as we were attacked on Haroni. Those working against the treaty have labeled me a traitor and will do whatever it takes to stop me from reaching Arturia. There is an Omega squad no doubt on their way here. I need to get off this ship before they arrive.”
“Right so we need to get you to your ship. I talked to some of the mechanics and they’ve told me it is repaired.” Harlow said, pausing as she recalled something. “However I did happen to see a security team stationed outside the hanger. They said it was for the security of your ship but now I am thinking they are there to make sure it doesn’t go anywhere.”
“This isn’t going to be easy. We will need some weapons, stun blasters. Despite trying to stop us those security forces are just doing their jobs and aren’t the enemy. Harlow can you get access to the armory?” Ashira asked, then looked over at Sadie who still seemed to be taking all this in.
Ushima
12-31-2017, 04:44 AM
Michael sighed. "Of course. Just when things were starting to get back to normal."
"The armory is this way." Harlow spoke.
Nodding Michael followed them. "Well doctor I think this brings an end to our sessions. Just send me the bill."
Julian Troy gave a slight bow. "I wish you all luck on your mission."
Michael followed the Yoran Ace down the hall. "So if we're going up against regular troops does that mean Omega Squad isn't here yet?"
"They're less than two hours out." Sadie informed him. "Which means we need to get you off this ship quickly if you want to stand any chance of making it to your next stop, Aquaris Station."
The Arturian smirked. "Then it's a long ass straight shot into Arturian space." Michael was eager to get back on his own turf. The closer they got to Arturia the safer he felt. He wanted nothing more than to head home, curl up on the couch and nap for a couple days. He wanted to see his mother again, eat one of her amazing home cooked meals. Michael made a note to get Ashira some of his mother's food.
Harlow brought them to a secured door. "In here." Quickly she input an access code. The Ace passed out the weapons. "Remember, stun."
Michael adjusted his settings. "Roger that. So princess, you know this ship better than I do. What's the plan of attack?"
AngelDellaNotte
01-09-2018, 04:09 AM
At the armory Ashira looked over to Sadie wondering how she knew how far the Omega troops were away. She still didn’t know much about the pilot and wasn’t sure if she could be trusted. Ashira doubted that many other than the Captain knew about the arrival of the Omega troops that was just how they worked. Most of the time the government denied they even existed. It was one of the worst kept secrets in the Yoran Empire. She was about to confront Sadie on it when a thought appeared in her head, the YS Nightfall was patrolling the borderlands on the edge of Yoran space. Not many military vessels traveled out this far unless on patrol. It wasn’t often that they sent two ships of this size out to patrol the same area without a direct threat. Any ship coming out this far would take a while to reach it. The nearest military station was three hours travel from here. Even if they had a head start it would take a couple hours to reach them.
After clipping on a gun belt Ashira slipped a pistol into the holster along with a very charge packs. She kept a second pistol in her hand still looking at Sadie a little weary. She had her doubts but they didn’t have the time to confront the issue. For now she would just have to trust her. Still she would be sure to keep her eye on her. If need be she could stun the pilot and leave her to wake up later with one hell of a headache. Her eyes quickly darted to Michael wondering if he had picked up the same vibe but she couldn’t really tell. “We need to get to our ship but it is being guarded. We could try taking another ship but that would leave us needing to either give it a complete overhaul on Aquarius Station or to sell it and buy another ship. It would be easier for us to break into an unguarded hanger and steal a ship but I am not sure we want to go through all that. If we were to break our ship out the only way we are getting in is if we have a diversion of some kind. Something that will draw the guards away. And that is hoping they haven’t done anything to disable our ship. It would really suck if we fought our way in only to find out the ship won’t fly. Michael what do you think?” Ashira asked.
Ushima
01-21-2018, 03:46 AM
"Plus our stuff is still on that ship." Michael chuckled. "I'm not into abandoning my shit. And it will make the rest of the mission easier."
"So we'll need a distraction to get the guards away." Harlow said. "Maybe we can fake a maintenance issue? Draw them away?"
Sadie sighed. "Aw I wanted to due the classic help my friend is hurt."
Michael smirked. "That one sounds fun. Harlow how well can you do a convincing broken leg?"
"I basically wrote the book." She boasted proudly. "But I don't think that'll work. These guys wouldn't care. More than likely they will call the medical team or just pass it off onto some other grunt and make them deal with it."
"Yep that sounds like guards who take their job too seriously." Michael shook his head. "But you sound like you have something cooking Harlow."
Harlow nodded and explained her plan. "We fake a containment breech. The alarms sound and flash thus tricking everyone in the hangar that it's about to be depressurized and blasted out into the darkness. No one wants to be spaced."
Michael scratched his chin, thinking on the plan. "That's a good one. I like it."
Sadie stepped in. "It'll require one of us onto the bridge to over ride the command."
Harlow volunteered. "I'll do it. No one would question me being there and sitting down at a control panel to engage the alarm system. Once I'm there I'll radio you on these short range communicators." The Yoran Ace handed one to Ashira. "You hide nearby and once they're out you slip in."
"I'm for it. We don't have many options." Michael turned to face the Princess. They were so close to the border, one stop away from crossing into his home territory. And for him that seemed to be the end of their troubles here. His playing field where he knew all the pawns in play at any given time. "What do you think? Clock's ticking. If we have any other ideas it has to be now."
AngelDellaNotte
02-12-2018, 06:14 AM
Listening to Sadie and Harlow’s idea of faking an injury made Ashira smirk as she recalled a movie she had seen a few months ago. “I hate get help, it’s so humiliating” Ashira chuckled causing the two women to look at Ashira puzzled while Lillian just smiled, “What? We have three cinemas in the palace, not including my mother’s private screen.” Putting the joking aside Ashira started thinking about the plan it did sound like a good plan. The tactician in her switched on causing her to space out as she ran the plans through her mind. She worked out several scenarios in her mind, judging the success and fail rates. Her mind kept going back to Sadie and her being an unknown wild card. She didn’t think that Sadie was working for whoever had been plotting against the mission, the odds of them being captured by Valkyrie Pirates were too low to predict. However there still was the chance that Sadie wouldn’t have believed they weren’t traitors. What was more logical? The story they had told or that she was selling her country out? Ashira hated the thought of anyone doubting where her loyalties were but had to admit it was more believable. The Yorans and Arthurians had been at war longer than most people had been alive. It was hard to believe that it could actually end.
She knew she could trust Harlow, the friendship they had was that strong. Between the four of them they could handle Sadie if she betrayed them. Or rather three with Harlow on the bridge. Which was a problem in itself. Anything Harlow did on the bridge could be tracked back to her. Ashira didn’t like the idea of Harlow getting hemmed up. Yes, eventually it would be cleared up when Ashira made it to Arthuria but the damage to Harlow’s reputation would be done. “I don’t like the idea of you being on the bridge Harlow, even if we manage to get out they can track the error back to you.” Ashira said, instantly causing Harlow to argue that she didn’t care. The princess held her hand up stopping the other woman. “I can hack the system if you get me to an access panel. Remember genius here.” Ashira finished by pointing at herself.
Harlow chuckled as she recalled a time during training where the recruits had escape from a mock enemy prison and Ashira had managed to override all the door controls by using a guard’s comm unit to hack the computer system. She unlocked all the prisoner cells and the entire class escaped. Something that until then was unheard of. The head instructors had tried to argue that Ashira had cheated but Harlow had to point out when conducting an escape in the real world there were no rules. They were just upset Ashira had beat them. “Right, there is an access panel near the hanger but it is within eye sight of guards outside the hanger. We’ll need a distraction. Ashira, how long do you think it will take to hack the system?” Harlow said.
“About two minutes.” Ashira said, as Lillian started laughing. It was the princess’ turn to look puzzled this time.
“Well it looks like get help is back on.” Lillian said.
Ushima
02-23-2018, 05:31 AM
Harlow put a hand on Michael's back. "So how about it big boy? Want to be in on get help?"
Michael nodded. "Whatever it takes to pull this off. Consider me yours."
"Oh my how forward." Harlow winked, causing Michael's face to darken a bit. He wasn't shying away which was a good sign of his progress. But it was a simple flirtatious spin on Michael's comment. If Michael reacts to anything more than a harmless comment remains to be seen. Harlow slid Michael's arm over her neck and wrapped an arm around his waist. "My how fit you are also. Ashira you're cramped in a tiny ship with this? Lucky girl."
Lillian interjected at that moment. "Alright, can we get on with it?" Last thing she needed was people actually thinking the Yoran Princess may shack up with the Arturian pilot.
"I'm ready. Lets go." Harlow and Michael left the group and headed down the hall.
"Once we act they'll know right away what's going down. Think you can manage?" Harlow looked up at Michael's face.
"Against people actually trained instead of renegade pirates? Probably not as well as you're hoping." Michael chuckled. "But get me close and with surprise I can manage something.” The guards came into view and Michael started playing his part, faking groans of pain.
Harlow slipped into her role. "Hey! Get help!"
One of the guards turned and approached him. "What happened?"
"He fell down a flight of stairs. We might have been horsing around and I may have shoved him a little too hard. I need help carrying him to the med bay, he's heavy." The guard got closer, reaching out to take Michael's other arm. Harlow chose that moment to shove Michael into him. Michael ducked, his shoulder going into the guard's chest. The Arturian wrapped his arms around the man's torso and lifted him up before slamming him into the ground.
Before they hit the ground Harlow appeared from behind the grappling pair. With quick strikes she got the other man into a hold, squeezing her arm. "Shhhhh. Shhh. Got to sleep. Sleep. This is all a bad dream." He slumped to the ground and Harlow looked over to see how Michael was fairing. Comically Michael was on top, pushing the guard's face to the side while his other hand held the radio out of reach. The guard was attempting to reach for it, slapping Michael on the upper arm and chest. "You good?"
"A hand would be appreciated!" Michael hissed. The sound of clapping floated to his ears. "Ha ha very funny! You also the ship's comedian?" Harlow ceased her clapping and came over, knocking the man out with a swift kick. "Thank you. We're set."
AngelDellaNotte
03-19-2018, 08:05 PM
Ashira waited with Lillian and Sadie as Harlow and Michael went to distract the guards. She heard the thump of them hitting the ground and took that as her cue to move. With Lillian right behind her she moved up to the panel and pulled the cover off of it. A couple crossed wires later and she had access to the system. From there it was just a matter of setting off the alarm. While her fingers danced across the panel she looked around noticing Lillian keeping guard over her but Sadie wasn’t anywhere to be seen. Damnit she shouldn’t have let her out of sight. Judging be the fact Lillian was looking around with a scowl on her face she had lost track of Sadie. Ashira hadn't voiced her worry about Sadie but Lillian always had a way of keying on things Ashira didn't always. The way Lillian looked right now showed that she was concerned about Sadie as well. “Focus.” Lillian barked at Ashira noticing she wasn't working on the panel.
“Almost got it.” Ashira said, sounding a bit like a scolded school girl caught not paying attention to a lecture. She it a few more keys on the panel before getting a couple beeps from the panel. A moment later the lights in the corridor dimmed with a flashing red light. A warning siren also sounded off. The doors to the hanger opened up with a number of mechanics running out of if. Micheal and Harlow had restrained the guards and moved them away from sight. Ashira and Lillian waited until it looked like all the mechanics were out then entered the hanger. Micheal and Harlow were right there with them but there was no sign of Sadie.
Inside the hanger Ashira noticed a lingering mechanic, she cringed a bit then shot the poor unsuspecting man. He looked very young, probably just starting his enlistment. She didn't want to have to shot one of her own people but they needed to get off this ship. The kid hit the ground before he really knew what was going on. Ashira stopped by his side kneeling next to him lightly touching his cheek the regret plain on her face. Yes, the gun was on stun and the boy would only wake up with one hell of a headache but she was doing this to protect her people. This wasn't that. It would help in the long run but it was hard now. “We don't have time for this.” Harlow said, resting her hand on Ashira's shoulder urging her to keep moving though she had a look of empathy on her face.
With a nodded she stood up and ran to their ship. It looked like the repairs had been done and like requested it still looked like a rust bucket. She ran up the ramp heading with Micheal to the cockpit as Harlow and Lillian readying the rest of the ship. She reached the cockpit before Micheal and stopped dead in her tracks to see Sadie sitting in the pilot chair with a gun pointed right at her.
Ushima
03-25-2018, 01:52 AM
Michael winced as the young mechanic fell to the ground, stunned by his very own princess. 'Better than being shot. I'll take stun over death any day.' He thought as he lowered the ramp for the ship to the ground. "Go quickly." Once everyone was up the ramp and into the cargo hold he brought the ramp up, leaving before the process was even complete as time was of the essence. With Harlow and Lillian seeing to the rest of the ship he moved into the tiny crew quarters, Ashira in front of him moving into the cockpit. Deciding to change into a flight suit later Michael followed after the princess. "Ok lets get...moving." He stopped in his tracks. Sitting in his seat was Sadie, pointing a gun at Ashira. "And here I thought we were all friends?"
"Shut up." Sadie's eyes flicked to Michael but the gun didn't move off the princess. "Do you really expect me to believe that bullshit story about the war ending?"
"I mean it's the truth." He was slowly moving himself in front of Ashira.
"Don't move! Back behind the traitor." Sadie gestured with the gun and returned to his original position, hissing curses under his breath. "Must be nice having an Arturian dog at your beck and call." That got a growl out of Michael, as much as he didn't want to make the rude comment stick. "So what was your plan? Get to Arturian space and give them all our secrets? Tired of being second fiddle to big bro?"
"Clichéd jealous heir story? I don't think so. Ashira isn't that petty and vengeful." He was formulating a plan in his head. Engage the auto take off, which he hated using and preferred manual controls, and with Sadie not in her seat she'd be sent flying. Unless something else unexpected happened it was their only shot. But he had to keep her distracted as he got Ashira closer to a chair, that way he at least had something to hold onto. Sadly their friends in the back haven't gotten the memo yet. "But I'll tell you what. We're running away together. You see I was on deep recon when I was shut down by Ashira's fleet. One ship against all those surface cannons something is going to hit home." Gently he nudged the back of Ashira's leg gently, getting her to start moving to the chair. "So with myself captured she interrogated me herself. After all the Devil of Verdin required a very special...touch. If you know what I mean." Michael gave Sadie a wink, trying everything he could to sell this story. "Eventually over time and many a long night, we came to an understanding." They were within arms reach of the chair, Michael was ready to grab it and Ashira and hold on for dear life. "So you were half right. So did you enjoy my brief tale of star crossed love?"
AngelDellaNotte
04-11-2018, 09:27 PM
She felt Micheal nudge her and figured he had some sort of plan going in his mind. Listening to him tell a sorry right out of a movie. It was even more cliche than Sadie's idea of her being jealous of Casper. The two of them had always grown up with different roles. Ashira had known Casper was meant to be the next emperor and that never bothered her. There was so much good she do without a crown. In fact it would be much easier to accomplish things from behind the scenes. Ashira never had a problem with her place in the royal line up. She only wanted to help her people. Traveling across the galaxy to marry a prince she didn't know hadn't been her idea of helping her people but here she was. “Sadie. I know all this is a lot to take in and hell I don't know if I would believe me either but I swear to you on my life I would never do anything to hurt the Yoran people.” She said, stepping closer to the woman and her gun. The closer they got the more tense Sadie became still holding the gun at her.
Ashira shifted her foot back tapping Micheal on the shin letting him know she was ready for whatever he was about to try. She wished she knew what that was but there was no way to talk about it without Sadie hearing the plan. Feeling him push forward reaching for the control panel. Sadie saw his movement and started to turn the gun toward him. Ashira didn't think about it she just lunged forward was well pushing the gun away from Micheal. She hit it right as Micheal activated the auto take off. The ship jerked as it hovered off the deck knocking over anything or anyone not bolted down. The force of it caused Sadie's finger to bump the trigger discharging the gun. It not longer was pointed at Micheal but it wasn't totally clear either. The shot grazed Ashira's neck, nothing fatal but far from painless either. Fighting through the pain Ashira continued her lunge at Sadie grabbing the gun. The momentum caused both of them to fall to the ground where they began wrestling for the gun. Ashira looked up briefly and saw Micheal still standing there.
“Don't just stand there. Get us the hell out of here.” Ashira said, from top of Sadie where she sat trying to pin her down. In the fall the gun had fallen and skidded across the room out of the reach of either of them. She was struggling to grab Sadie's hand the other woman was just too fast for her and kept breaking free. “Oh to hell with it.” Ashira said, then balled her left fist punching Sadie across the jaw and knocking her out. The impact on her hand was painful and caused her to let out another curse as she shook her hand.
Ushima
04-21-2018, 03:53 AM
“Engage emergency auto take off!” Michael yelled, gripping the chair with all he had. He felt a little bad about Harlow and Lillian in the cargo hold behind them. They had no idea what was going on in the flight deck. No clue about the struggle with the misguided soldier. The soldier who Ashira was tangling with as the ship quickly lifted off the ground and shot forward out of the hangar. The X-105 Cargo Ship drifted into space at max speed. Only he wasn’t at the helm to engage the artificial gravity. So once they were through the protective barrier the fighting trio floated into the air. But he didn’t have too much time to worry about that as Michael was hit with a stray bullet, Sadie and Ashira were wrestling for control of the guns and it the chaos it went off. It logged itself in his left side, The Arthurian slumping against the chair that has saved him from a powerful impact with the back wall. With Sadie now unconscious, thanks to a might punch from Ashira and floating in place Michael, painfully, pulled himself forward, drifting to the command console. Drops of blood hovered behind him in his wake. “E-engaging gravit-ty.” He spoke through clenched teeth as he pressed the required buttons.
”Artificial gravity engaged. You are now free to move about the cabin.” The automated voice informed them.
Michael fell and hit the console. “Fuck!” He cursed, rolling onto his back and sliding to the ground holding his bleeding left side.
“What the fuck is going up there!?” Harlow’s voice was heard through the door before it opened, showing the Yoran Ace rubbing a sore rear. Lillian was behind her nursing a bump on her head.
“My lady!” The body guard rushed forward to her princess’ side.
“Look like you’re bleeding out.” Harlow knelt next to Michael.
“Yeah. Trying out a new look.” Michael grunted as he tried to stand, managing to get onto one knee. “Ashira are you ok?”
Harlow put a hand on his back to steady him, as he was starting to sway, teetering on passing out. “Shouldn’t you worry about yourself?”
“Nah, she’s way more important.” His vision was getting dark as he continued to push against Harlow’s hand. “Besides I’ve had worse.” That was the last he spoke as he slumped over onto his right side. His left hand fell from his side showing a large and growing spot of dark red, a small pool was starting to form under him.
“Ah shit.” Harlow grabbed onto Michael, lifting. “Now we’re really doing get help. I’ll get him to the crew quarters and treat him. Lilian keep handling our girl there.” The crew quarters was where they kept the medical supplies so Harlow laid Michael down onto his bunk, stripping off his top layer after which she washed her hands. “Geez the things you go through for that girl. Such pain for someone who just until recently was your mortal enemy.” Harlow took out tools to extract the bullet, as she couldn’t find an exit wound. “If there are more like you in Arturia maybe this peace thing will work out after all. Lillian when you’re done with the royal pain I could use a hand with the danger magnet here.”
AngelDellaNotte
06-02-2018, 08:22 PM
A hand was pressed to her neck where she had felt a slight pinch after the gun had gone off. Ashira hadn't realized at the time she had been shot. She had been too focused on the struggle with Sadie. Lillian helped Ashira to her feet, being sure to keep her hand pressed to her neck. “It looks like it just grazed you.” Lillian said. She helped Ashira into the back setting her on the bed across from Michael. Leaning over Harlow she reached into the medical kit grabbing a medi-bandage. In one quick movement she ripped it open revealing a small blue green square made of a gel like substance. A moment later it was pressed to Ashira's neck. Lillian grabbed Ashira's hand pressing it over the bandage. “Hold that there for a couple minutes so it adheres.”
“Okay you have me patched up go help Michael.” Ashira said, grabbing a rope from one of the cargo bins. On her way back to the cockpit she tapped Harlow on the shoulder pulling her away from Michael but the pilot hesitated not wanting to leave him. “Let Lillian tend to him. We need you to fly this rust bucket.” She practically dragged Harlow to the front of the ship as Lillian jumped in right where Harlow was.
Once back in the cockpit Harlow stepped over Sadie sitting down in the pilot chair and taking the controls not noticing that her hands were still covered in Michael's blood. Between him and Ashira they would need to give the ship a good scrubbing. Ashira knelt down with the rope rolling Sadie over, she was still unconscious as Ashira bound her wrists behind her back. She had jut barely finished when Sadie came to. “Damn you got a hell of a punch for a royal.” Sadie said, still feeling the affects of the hit. “You aren't getting away with betraying the Empire.”
“I wasn't selling you a story, we aren't betraying the Empire. My mother has sent us on a mission to bring peace to our lands and I am going to let nothing stand in my way.” Ashira said, pulling Sadie to her feet and dragging her into the cargo bay past Michael. She made sure Sadie was restrained and secured to the side of the ship. They would have to decide later what to do with her. They couldn't drag her all the way to the Arturian Empire. Perhaps they could drop her on the planet along the way. They were on the edge of Yoran space but they could find somewhere to leave her. There were a number of neutral planets along the way. Leaving Sadie there to be dealt with later Ashira went back to the living area and Michael. “What can I do?” Ashira asked Lillian.
Ushima
06-05-2018, 07:26 PM
"This man I swear." Lilian hissed as she continued to work on Michael's unconscious body. His shirt was off and Lilian was grabbing a tool. "I need you to hold him like this. I can see the bullet it's not lodged too deep into his side."
Michael groaned a little. "Wha happ-"
"Of course he's waking up. Hold still soldier boy." Putting her tool down real quick she grabbed a needle from the first aid kit. "Was hoping to do this quick while you were out but guess not. Here's the good stuff. You earned it." Removing the cap with her mouth she injected Michael with a pain killer. "He's going to be high as a kite. Ok where were we?"
Michael was still coming out of it. The amount of blood he's lost, while not enough to put him at risk, was enough to make him somewhat delirious. And now add meds to the mix he was feeling good. And they hit fast, and hard. "Why is there a party in my bedroom?"
"We're not in your bedroom, you're dying. Now hold still." Lillian cursed. "Ashira hold him." The bodyguard reached in and grasped the bullet. "Got it."
"I'm not ready for bed yet." Michael tried removing his pants, unclasping his belt and pushing them down.
"When this is over I need some of that good stuff." Lilian set the tongs and bullet down in a tray and grabbed the suture kit. "Almost done then you can sleep."
Michael then noticed Ashira holding him. "Hey Ashira what are you doing in my room?"
Lilian rolled her eyes. "I do hope you enjoy what comes out of his mouth next."
"Princess you can't be in my room like this. It isn't right. Lilian is right here and she doesn't like it when we spend time together." Michael shot a glare at Lilian who returned it more effectively, not being under the influence of medical drugs. "My pants are off you can't be here."
"Done!" Lilian finished stitching him up. "Time for you to sleep for a few hours."
Harlow yelled up from the flight deck. "I hear it's getting hot back there! Need me to come up and give the man a hand?"
"Quiet you perverted wench." Lilian grabbed another needle. "Alright my irritating Arturian friend, sweet dreams. And they better not be about the princess." She stuck the needle in his arm and quickly Michael was unconscious. "Well that was annoyingly entertaining. They never mentioned his reaction to meds in the file they sent over. I'll put some proper pants on him. You shower and get his blood off you. "It won't be too long before we get to Aquaris Station to restock whatever supplies we're missing."
AngelDellaNotte
09-24-2018, 07:46 PM
Once the surgery was complete Lillian hooked a medical monitor to his chest it starting to scan his vitals right away. After a moment of being connected it beeped a warning causing Lillian to look over at the display. “As I expected he's lost quite a bit of blood. He'll need a transfusion. The device puts his blood type as B positive. I'm A negative. “ Lillian said walking up to the cockpit. “Harlow what's your blood type?”
“I'm AB negative.” Harlow said, looking back from the controls. “Flyboy need a refuel?”
“Aye, needs a transfusion.” Lillian said, walking back to the cargo bay but was stopped by Ashira. “What are you doing?” Ashira asked, blocking Lillian from going back further.
“Checking to see if either Harlow or Sadie are B positive.” Lillian said, moving to go around Ashira but the princess blocked her path.
“And I am O positive you know I can give him the transfusion.” Ashira said, rolling up her sleeve and sitting down in a chair next to Michael.
“Yes, you are but if Sadie is the right type then you aren't giving any blood.” Lillian said, stopping at the entrance to the cargo bay. “Sadie are you B positive?”
“Sure am but I'm not giving a drop to that Arturian dog.” Sadie said, spitting in the direction of the medical bay, it landing just a few feet in front of Lillian.
“Like hell you are. Even if I have to knock you out and drag you up here.” Lillian said, moving toward Sadie again but was stopped by Ashira.
“Come on this is obscured just do the transfusion with me.” Ashira said, “If I have to I will order you to. I do still outrank you both militarily and by class.”
Lillian looked to Sadie who was still letting out a string of curses. She shook her head and walked back into the medical bay gesturing for Ashira to sit down as she gathered the equipment needed for the transfusion. It didn't take long to hook it up, Lillian had been trained as a combat medic. She left Ashira sitting there as she went to get a juice box from the refrigerator and handing it to Ashira. “Drink this, stay seated and I will be back in bit to check on you two.” Lillian said, walking into the back where Sadie was still running her mouth.
Ashira chuckled as she heard Lillian threaten to pummel Sadie if she didn't shut up. Ashira looked over to Michael taking his hand in hers. “Oh what a fine mess we have gotten into.” She said, not entirely thinking about the escape.
Ushima
09-25-2018, 01:49 AM
He felt weak. The world around him was hazy as he started to shake off the drugs they pumped him with. "Nothing can ever be simple can it?" He brought his right hand to his face, running his eyes. His left was weighed down and he did not bother trying to move it, it was warm and comforting. Opening his eyes he stared up at the bunk above him, the gray paint the same as he is used to seeing. Looking to his left he saw Ashira still sitting there, his hand in her's. A soft smile spread across his face. He didn't know how long he had been out but Ashira either way had fallen asleep. The equipment for the transfusion laid in a tray on the counter. Michael gave her hand a gentle squeeze, brushing his thumb across her hand. Taking a peak around, seeing the crew quarters empty, Michael brought her hand up and gave it a kiss. "Sleep well princess." Gently her untangled himself from Ashira's grasp and moved to stand, groaning and hissing as his side throbbed with pain.
"I got shot and I'm not even getting paid for it." Carefully his feet hit the floor and he stood. It was a little shaky but he managed to stagger over to the closet and pull out a fresh pair of clothes. Michael changed into a fresh white tank, biting back a loud groan as he did so. Michael wasn't even going to try to bend over and put on his boots. Lastly he grabbed a blanket and put it over Ashira.
"Aw aren't you a sweetheart." Harlow's voice caught him by surprise.
Michael turned to look at her, a little too fast. His hand went to his side and he winced. "Yeah. I'm a nice guy." The Arturian headed to the flightdeck, "We headed to Aquaris Station?"
Harlow nodded. "We're on our way. How you feeling?"
Michael chuckled. "I've had better days. Just waiting for the pain to subside. Think I'll put in for a Broken Wing medal for." He saw Harlow's raised eyebrow and explained. "It the medal for when pilots get injured. You know what it's like. We either live or get shot out of the sky."
"Well you've earned it." Harlow brushed past him, back into the flight deck. She crouched down in front of Sadie. "You hear that? You helped fly boy here get a medal." The girl was tied up and had a gag in her mouth. Lillian was in another seat taking a nap. "Help me fly this thing." Michael took the co-pilot seat on the left, Harlow retook the seat on the right. "So I got the basic functions."
AngelDellaNotte
09-30-2018, 06:09 PM
Waking up Ashira felt her neck was stiff, as she looked around she realized it was because she had fallen asleep in a chair. There was a blanket over her and Michael was gone. She must have fallen asleep while sitting with the pilot. Lillian was sleeping in another chair, and looking into the back Sadie was still bound though there now was a gag in her mouth. Lillian's handiwork no doubt. Folding the blanket she set it on the bunk and went to the cockpit. Harlow and Michael were sitting there with the Arturian showing her how to use the ship. In the view screen before them Ashira could see that station before them. It wasn't like the sleek stations she was used to seeing but more industrial. “Aquarius station (https://cdna.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/000/434/010/large/igor-sobolevsky-space-station-orbit.jpg?1422305927), it used to be a asteroid mining station but once all the ore was mined it was abandoned. The mechanics had cannibalized most of the engines to keep their equipment running so it couldn't be moved.” Harlow said, noticing Ashira standing behind them. “It was bought by a pair of siblings, Lionel and Hannah Gideon. They took advantage of the lawlessness between the Arturian and Yoren spaces. Anything goes on the station as long as it suits the Gideons, they easiest way to do that is to keep their pockets full.”
“Sounds like a lovely place.” Ashira said, sarcastically.
“Indeed. You will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy” Harlow said, guiding the ship into one of the space docks. Ashira had watched Michael do it several times and Harlow seem to be doing fine though you could see she was a little uncomfortable with the controls.
“We'll be able to refuel and find a suitable place to leave Sadie. I know a few people that can keep her occupied until we got a good enough lead on the Omega squad.” Harlow said, finishing the last of the docking, there was a slight bump that was normal with. A big grin spread across Harlow's face as she beamed to Michael then turned back to Ashira. “Technically Aquarius Station is off limits but it isn't that hard to fudge logs for a little shore leave.”
“Well let's get going.” Ashira said, walking to the back of the ship past Lillian who she left sleeping. She grabbed Sadie and pulled her to her feet.
“Perhaps we should leave our friend here until I get a chance to talk to my contacts. Just about anything goes here but dragging a tied up woman through the station might cause some questions.” Harlow said.
“Alright, we'll leave Lillian here to watch her.” Ashira said, dropping Sadie back to the ground and heading to the docking bay.
“Not, gonna wake her up first?” Harlow said, with a laugh. “Hey I get it your babysitter would make you stay on the ship. Let's at least leave her a note.” Harlow moved over to one of the monitors and recorded a quick message for the body guard then the three of them headed out.
Ushima
10-01-2018, 06:10 AM
Michael slid into the seat Harlow previously occupied and went through the shutdown sequence for the craft. Once the APU was powered down dock workers approached the ship. They plugged it into a power unit and started fueling. Once things were settled in the flight deck Michael returned to the crew cabin. Opening the med kit he pulled out another bandage, one large enough to cover his Arturian tattoo. Satisfied with it's placement on his right arm Michael went and joined the two ladies outside. "Hold up!" A voice called out to them.
Michael glanced to his left, seeing a man with a holopad approaching them. He stepped forward to meet him. "Greetings dock master. I take it you have the paperwork?"
"Aye I do." The man, Igor by the name on his tag, handed Michael the pad. The Arturian took it and began filling in the information. "So an Arturian ship?"
"Captured in a raid. Didn't serve the military's needs and lacked any new tech they could salvage so they auctioned it off as a "collector's item"," Michael paused in filling out the forms to do the air quotes. "Then it found it's way into my hands and I've been working as a contractor. It gets a big draw for uniqueness."
"Right." Igor finished eyeing the ship. "So here we have the cost of fuel plus the docking fees for the port. Anything else you need?"
Michael looked over his ship. "The interior systems are fine. Mind patching up those holes in the hull?" They were left over from where Simca had pumped gas into their ship knocking them out. The Yoran's had done a quick patchwork job but the crews here should be able to take what they've done and fix it properly. Plus it was on the crown's dime so why not?
Igor nodded. "No problem I'll add it to your bill. Will you be paying now or later?"
He didn't want to risk flashing anything important right away so he decided later. The card loaded with Credits was safely tucked away on the ship. "I'll pay before we leave."
"Very well then." Igor held out his hand for the pad. Michael returned it to him. "Stop by the office before you leave to finish the payment and I'll release the docking clamps."
"Will do. Thank you." Michael raised a friend hand to the man. With that settled he rejoined Ashira and Harlow who seemed to be making plans. "That's how they make money. Fees on top of fees. Your ma isn't going to be happy to get this bill I'll tell you that." Michael chuckled. "So where we headed?"
AngelDellaNotte
10-24-2018, 09:24 PM
While Michael settled with the dock master Ashira and Harlow stood a short distance away with Ashira keeping her back to the man. They were on the far edge of Yoran space but she was still worried someone would recognize her. She was the public face of the royal family and as long as they were in Yoran space it would be a risk. She knew it was a foolish fear this far out, it technically was Yoran space but the crown wasn't in control. The only 'royals' anyone cared about were the Gideons. Michael came back over and made a quip about how much it would cost and her mother not being happy. If he only knew how much was actually on that card. Her mother wanted this to succeed and the funds allotted were more than enough needed. “We're headed to the race district. My contact that can help us out with Sadie is there.” Harlow said, leading them off the landing deck and to train system that would move them around the station. She paid for three tickets to the race district using a false name for each of them to register. The station kept a record of everyone who came to it and where they went but it mostly was a formality as very few traveled with their own name and no one checked.
It was a short ride to the race district the train moving incredibly fast. In this district you could find any kind of race imaginable. They were headed to hover racer tracks where they were looking for a riot racer pilot. The riot racers were a cross between a regular race and a battle royal. The goal wasn't just to make it to the finish line but to make it there alive. The races were quite entertaining to watch. They exited the train the deck standing just above one of the tracks (https://i.pinimg.com/564x/2a/b5/a3/2ab5a346b7ab817f03e453c659731570.jpg) giving everyone disembarking a glance at the races. Ashira leaned over the railing looking down at the track seeing a maintenance droid cleaning the track between races. “Wait until you see a race in action.” Harlow said, tapping Ashira on the shoulder and guiding her down the road to the riot racer track. She spoke to the ticket taker a moment then they were lead away from the public area to a private viewing adjacent to the track the area filled mostly with other racers and rich viewers.
Harlow ordered a couple of drinks and took a seat on a couch kicking her feet up on a coffee table. “So where is our contact?” Ashira said, sitting down next to Harlow as a waitress brought them their drinks. She took a drink of it tasting that it was a beer but it was stronger than she had ever had. It took some effort not to spit it out or to choke on it.
“Red bike, third position.” Harlow said, taking a long drink of her beer. Not seeming to have any trouble getting the liquid down. “We'll have to wait until the race is over.” They sat there watching the race (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3ZdpEpTH2M), Harlow polishing off two more of the beers while Ashira barely touched hers. The race ended with their contact winning. The racer jumped off his bike heading toward the area they were sitting being congratulated by several racers until he saw Harlow and walked to her taking his helmet (https://i.pinimg.com/originals/cf/4e/ce/cf4ece7ca1755f5a69407885371ab502.jpg) off dropping it on the couch before pulling Harlow to him and kissing her quite intensely. “Korban Sealey, good to see you too.” Harlow said, then turned to Ashira. “Allow me to introduce you to a friend of mine. Afton Grant.”
Ashira looked over to Harlow trying to hide a brief puzzled look at the name then recalling it was they same alias Harlow had used on the train log. Of course she couldn't be introduced with her real name. It shouldn't have caught her off guard. “A pleasure to meet you.” Ashira said, holding her hand out for Korban to shake.
“Aside from being the best racer on the riot circuit Korban is Lionel Gideon's right hand man. If you need anything on the station he's the man to get it.” Harlow said.
Ushima
10-25-2018, 04:22 AM
Michael followed after the two women after raising up the cargo ramp. The port was impressive, one of the largest he's ever been too. It even boasted quite an impressive rail system. He was only half listening to Harlow as he followed the two through the queue to get tickets. He was mostly here as a tag along, his skills hopefully not needing to be required her in the port. Harlow thrust something into his hand. "Here's your ticket, Xander Thrust."
Michael chuckled. "Sounds like a pornstar."
"That's your cover." She patted his cheek and walked away.
"Not funny!" Michael swiped his ticket and proceeded onto the train. "Bitch." He cursed Harlow under his breath. The ride to the tracks was short and he spent the entirety of it staring out the window, annoyed and hopeful that Harlow wasn't seriously going to introduce him to anyone as Xander Thrust the porn actor. Knowing her, for as short a time as he has, it was a good possibility. After the train settled and the doors opened her exited with Ashira and Harlow. They were above the track and like Ashira he peaked over, spotting the maintenance droid. What caught him by surprise was the copious amounts of blood nearby.
"Well this will be interesting." They had races in Arturia, of course. But it wasn't their main form of sporting entertainment. Mech Combat was huge in Arturia. Simulated battles in different terrain tested teams ability to adapt and strategize. The better and flashier you fought, the more popular you became. Champions like Ground Zero (https://photos.imageevent.com/afap/wallpapers/animemanga/mechas//Mecha%20-4.jpg) and Jäger (https://i.pinimg.com/originals/7c/0a/71/7c0a710206ac332d19c24790d97abb65.jpg) were household names. Needless to say it was Michael's backup plan if the military didn't work out. He loved fighting. A poster of an old champion, Ironhart (https://i.ebayimg.com/images/i/302868637954-0-1/s-l1000.jpg), hung up on his wall and he even had the collectible figure, limited edition. Fanboy, he was one. Michael knew he needed to Ashira sometime.
Inside the VIP viewing section there was a small party going on. Harlow lead them to their seats and ordered drinks. "Red bike, third position." Michael's eyes went to the track and found the bike immediately. It was the only red one out there.
"Nice. Favorite color." The Arturian grabbed one of the drinks and took a healthy swig. It was strong, nearly too strong and like Ashira nearly coughed it up. "Seems the alcohol regulations and a little...slack here. Smaller sips Michael smaller sips." Other than that it was a good drink and he had two more. He was feeling it. There was a dance floor in the corner and the music (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4mgcq2I1Vg) was just right. So he went over and joined the crowd, eventually ending up dancing with two well endowed socialites.
AngelDellaNotte
11-16-2018, 09:17 PM
“Harlow, you inflate my ego too much. All of it true of course.” Korban said, looking over to the women dancing with a overly drunk man. “Looks like someone has had a bit to much. Someone should have warned him about station brew.”
Ashira looked over to the dance floor noticing that the man was Michael. She shook her head shooting a glance to Harlow. “Yes, someone really should have warned him.” She looked back to him and then shouted, “Xander!” She called out a couple times with him not responding. Shaking her head she excused herself and walked over to Ashira grabbing Michael by the collar and dragging him off the dance floor to the complaints of the two women. She flipped them a gesture you wouldn't expect a princess to know and pulled him back over to the others. “Is there somewhere private we can talk?”
“Yeah, sure we'll get some coffee for your friend too.” Korban said, leading them to a private suite above the tracks. The room was spacious and a good view of the tracks. Ashira practically shoved Michael onto a sofa and ordered him to stay as Korban walked over pressing a cup of coffee into his hands. “Can I offer you ladies any refreshments?”
“No thanks.” Ashira said, watching Michael out of the corner of her eye. “Harlow says you can help us with a little problem we have.”
“I'm sure I can help you with just about anything.” Korban said, with a cheeky grin.
“I don't doubt it.” Ashira said, “We picked up a passenger on our last stop that we need to be missing for about a week or so before they are cut loose. We are traveling discretely and she would only put a wrench in our plans. Would it be possible for you to host her here for the time being?”
Ushima
11-17-2018, 04:57 AM
“Yes I’m on my way to shoot my next film it’s called big-hay!” Michael was yanked off the dance floor. In his drunken haze he could make out Ashira. “What’s going on? I was blending in?” They stopped by the couch and Michael noticed a new man standing there. “The race over?” Next thing he knew they were off again and climbing stairs to a private suit. Michael was practically shoved onto the couch. The Arturian fell onto his side. A warm feeling appeared in his hand.
“Here you go mate.” Korban said, patting him on the shoulder.
“Thanks.” He took a drink immediately. His face contorted into displeasure. “Ugh coffee. Gross.”
“You don’t like coffee?” Koban asked. “How do you function in the morning?”
“I just get up. It’s just warm brown water to me.” Michael set the coffee cup down on the table in front of him. It was then he noticed something written on his forearm. “What the?” Looking at what was scrawled on his arm he saw two rows. Each row consisted of a word followed by a series of numbers. “Velora. Six three seven-eight eight five four. Ciri. Seven one zero-nine two three four. Wait hold up I got both their numbers. When did that happen?”
Harlow smirked. “What did you three talk about?”
“Well...They asked my name so I told them. After the asked what I did so I said I did porn.” Harlow’s face broke out into a large grin, eager to here the next part. “They grabbed my arm after that but I kept glancing at the monitors and you guys.” Michael scratched his head.
Now it was Korban’s turn to chuckle. “Looks like they wanted you to come over and and lay some pipe.”
AngelDellaNotte
12-06-2018, 09:07 PM
Hearing Micheal's story made Ashira frown and a growl of disapproval leave her mouth. She picked up the cup of coffee and walked over to Micheal shoving the cup into his hands and spilling the coffee on his arm in the process, washing off the two numbers. “We don't have time for you to be playing around. Drink up and sober up.” She said, then turned back to Korban, “Mind if the horny idiot stays here while we go get our passenger?”
“Sure no problem at all. I can keep an eye on him.” Korban laughed, as he sat down next to Micheal. He reached into his pocket pulling a card out and handing it to Harlow. “Use this at the train station it will get you to a more private train.”
Harlow took the card and the two ladies left the room heading back to the train station. “Alright what was that all about?” Harlow asked.
“I can't explain why that idiot does anything.” Ashira said, as they came to the station and showed the attendant the card Korban gave them. He scanned it then another attendant led them to a private car. It wasn't open seating like on the other train this one had individual cabins for the passengers. Ashira and Harlow sat down on the plush seats in their cabin, both being offered a drink however Harlow declined for the both of them. Alcohol had caused enough problems today.
“I'm not talking about him. I am talking about the way you reacted. Like a teenager upset that the guy she is crushing on looked at someone else.” Harlow said, “You would have to be a fool not to notice that something is going on between you two.”
“Nothing is going on. He's just the escort to my marriage.” Ashira lied, looking out the window and not making eye contact with Harlow. She did feel something for him. That she couldn't deny it but also it couldn't be as she said she was on her way to marry someone else.
“Yeah, on your way to marry someone you don't know and you don't love.” Harlow said, “Look Ashira no one would blame you for having cold feet. Anyone in your shoes would.”
“I'm not anyone. I am a royal. We don't have the luxury of marrying who we want. Arranged marriages have been around for hundreds of years and I am not the first princess to have doubts. If I don't go through with this the war will go on and thousands will die. I can't let that be on my hands.” Ashira said, standing up and pacing the small room.
Harlow stood as well and grabbed Ashira by the shoulders stopping her pacing. “Ashira, you have a right to be happy too.”
“No, I don't.” Ashira said, as the train chimed that they were at the station. She pulled away from Harlow walking off to the train and to the ship. They didn't say anything on the way, walking in silence. When they arrived Lillian was standing at the door to the ship looking none too pleased. “Don't even start.” Ashira said, holding her hand up and walked aboard.
“What was that all about?” Lillian asked Harlow.
“Give you one guess, and a hint it involves our Arthurian friend.” Harlow said.
“I knew it would be a problem. Please tell me one of them knows the gravity of this.” Lillian said, following Harlow and Ashira on the ship.
“Don't worry the Princess knows her duty.” Harlow said, ending the conversation even though she felt Ashira was making the wrong choice.
In the back of the ship Ashira was pulling Sadie to her feet and removing the restraints. “We are going on a little field trip. You are going to behave yourself and do as you are told. So no fighting, you keep your mouth shut and you will be just find. If not I grantee you will regret it.” When Sadie didn't say anything Ashira took Sadie by the arm and walked back to the train with Harlow and Lillian following. For her part Sadie didn't try anything the look on Ashira's face telling her the princess wasn't bluffing.
Ushima
12-07-2018, 04:39 AM
Michael's arm burned slightly from the coffee and rough scraping Ashira did to get the numbers off his arm. As the ladies left he rubbed his arm. "She spilled almost all my coffee." He mumbled, drinking what was left.
"You sobering up?" Korban asked, offering him another full cup.
"Getting there." Michael thanked the man and took the cup.
"So what was all that about?" Korban took a seat across from him, with nothing else to do he might as well unravel the puzzle that lay before him. "Normally no one rushes to wash hot chick's numbers off someone."
"It's..." He didn't really know what to say. Here he was, an Arturian in Yoran space. Flying with the Yoran princess no less and escorting her back home to marry his best friend's younger brother. And if he got in the way and let his heart dictate what he wanted he'd be branded a traitor. At best he'd get life in maximum prison if Cass put in a good word. Worst, and most likely scenario, death. "She's a great girl. Way out of my league."
Korban scoffed. "Come on mate no one's out of your league as long as a connection is there. And there is one. I can tell. And don't give me that it's complicated crap."
Michael sighed, drinking more coffee. "Oh but it is. Way waaaaay complicated."
"Just do what I do, don't care about them." Michael raised an eyebrow at Korban. If only he knew the reality of Michael's situation. "But worry about that later. For now you gotta get yourself out of the hole you dug."
Michael drained the cup, setting it on the table. "But I didn't do anything! They just wrote on my arm and I wasn't paying attention."
"First rule of a relationship mate, It's always your fault." Korban chuckled at Michael's degected face. "So now you have to apologize. Maybe get her a gift? Remember; happy wife happy life." Korban laughed even harder as Michael's face flushed red. "Now I know that's not from the booze." Michael sighed again. "Oh what's the matter now?"
"...She's kinda hard to shop for. Has pretty much everything." Michael rubbed his face in frustration. This was getting to much. Korban's comment put some images in his head, images of Ashira as his wife. Shaking his head he let out a frustrated sigh. "Most she wants is to just be treated normal. Like a regular girl. You know she's a rich type and always had to deal with being treated differently."
Korban slapped his knee. "Well there you go mate. Take her out on a regular date. I know a sweet little spot down in the bazaar. Decent cheap drinks, maybe do a little window shopping in case a commoner trinket catches her eye. And just enjoy the tranquility. I'll take care of Harlow for ya."
Michael scratched his chin. It had been a awhile since the two of them just talked. "I like it. Sure after we wrap this up you distract Harlow and we'll sneak off." The sound of the door opening caught Michael's attention. "Shh don't spoil it."
AngelDellaNotte
12-08-2018, 12:03 AM
The card got the four women back onto the train with no problems and Sadie behaved not attempting to escape. When the door to the cabin shut she sat down across from Ashira staring at the princess. "What's wrong? Trouble in paradise with your Arthurian boyfriend?" Sadie said, leaning back a smug look on her face.
"Prolly best not to go there." Harlow said, reading herself should she need to intervene between the two. They really did not need Ashira beating Sadie to a pulp on the train. They somehow were managing to make this far without causing a scene. Just a little further and they would be okay.
Despite how upset she was Ashira caught on to Harlow's warning not just to Sadie but to her as well. "None of your damn business." She said, turning to the window and looking out again.
"Shut it, we could gag you again." Lillian said, feeling for her charge. It had to be difficult always having to do what it was expected of you without thought of what you actually wanted. That was the life of a Princess duty and responsibility would always come first. She had been hard on Ashira reminding her of that but it would seem the princess knew her duty. It had to hurt though and Lillian knew that feeling sorry for the princess. She was sitting next to Ashira and lightly resting hand on her shoulder. The princess turned and looked at her bodyguard nodding a little and looking back out the window.
The rest of the train ride was quiet with Sadie keeping her mouth shut. They headed back up to the loft finding Michael and Korban sitting on the sofa the Arthurian looking a little more sober. Korban slapped him on the shoulder and stood up walking across the room noticing both Lillian and Sadie. "So which of you will be keeping me company for a while?" He said, moving closer to Lillian and wrapping his arm around her, "Oh please say it is you."
Ushima
12-08-2018, 04:28 AM
"So tell me about yourself my friend." Korban switched gears for the conversation, making it seem like they weren't planning a date between Ashira and Michael.
"Well as you know I'm a pornstar hence the whole issue with the girls earlier." Michael smirked, not looking over at the arrival of the others. "In my free time I like flying. I'm a good pilot."
"What a coincidence. Harlow's a pretty mean pilot herself." Korban's eyes twinkled in mischief. "Maybe we can set the two of you up in a sim and have a go if you think you've got what it takes."
Michael smirked. "That does sound fun." Last time they competed Michael pulled a pretty ballsy move to win, he doubted the same trick would work twice. But it'd all depend on what ship he got. For their practice match he had been given an older model ship so he had to use some creative techniques to catch her off guard. If they were on equal footing it would be a proper match, all coming down to skill.
"So which of you will be keeping me company for a while?" Michael watched as Korban stood and cozied up to Lillian. "Oh please say it is you." For her part the bodyguard looked unimpressed. When he caught Lillian's eye she gave him a look, one he didn't want to see. That 'I know' look. So Michael broke eye contact and stood up, a little shaky but he was fine. Maybe not entirely sober but he was in control of his faculties now.
"This is who you need to babysit." Harlow pushed Sadie forward. "We need to keep her from being seen for a few days. Three at most."
While everyone was eyeing Sadie to see if she would do anything Michael tapped Ashira's shoulder. Giving Korban a nod he watched the man pull Lillian's gaze away from the two of them. Harlow was an unexpected aid to their scheme. “Getting kind close with her there Korban. If I didn’t know any better I’d say you were trying to warm her up for a threesome.” Lillian rounded on her, this distracted her and kept her attention of the princess and Michael.
Michael leaned in and spoke lowly so no one heard them. "Lets go." Taking her hand he pulled her along and out of the VIP room. Once they were on the street Michael headed in the direction of the bazaar, thanks to directions provided by his unofficial wingman. "Been awhile since you've been out without supervision huh?" They had to stop just outside of the bazaar to let a caravan of hover trucks carrying something, they were covered on the back, pass. "I need to apologize. I shouldn't have let them distract me from you...um...you guys earlier." His face flushed red at his slip of the tongue. "So let me treat you to some down time. To let you be yourself. If you don't want to we can head back right now. There's a bar down the bazaar strip if you want."
AngelDellaNotte
12-20-2018, 10:04 PM
Ashira let herself be guided away by Michael and out of the race tracks noticing how Harlow and Korban expertly distracted Lillian allowing them to escape away unnoticed. If she didn't know better the two of them had been plotting this but they hadn't the time as they hadn't been alone during this time. Then again Harlow had a way about her and Korban seemed to know Harlow much better than Ashira did. She could tell by the way they had embraced earlier that they were lovers, which wasn't all that unusual for Harlow.
“I do believe the last time we were unsupervised we ended up dragging a fire fight across a resort planet. The tabloids will be talking about it for weeks.” Ashira said, despite her mother's disapproval Ashira followed the gossip news, not that she believed it just that it was so entertaining, the stories they would come up with. The would take a photo of someone important and then without any context craft a story around it. Her mother saw it as bad publicity and not at all humorous, when Ashira had been a teenager she had forbid Ashira from reading the feeds. There had even been a time when Ashira had been on Haroni and a photo had been taken of her in a bathing suit with a man that wasn't her then fiancee, he had only been asking directions not realizing who she was but the tabloids had made up numerous stories about her secret love affair. Ashira had been grounded and not allowed to leave the palace for months. It wasn't until the tabloids had moved onto several new stories that she had been allowed to leave the palace. “It least until I get married.” Ashira said, pausing in her walking at the thought of it.
She wasn't still sure that she wanted to do it, though refusing to marry the prince wasn't an option Ashira would choose, she knew the stakes but that didn't mean she had to like the idea of marrying someone she didn't know let alone love. Michael mentioned a bar which sounded like a good idea to drink away the thoughts of her impending marriage. Though she recalled her previous outburst at Michael being drunk and thought maybe it wasn't the best idea. “Maybe drinking isn't the best idea, the drinks on this station are a little more than I think either of us are used to.” She looked down the street at the bazaar noticing a small cafe. “Perhaps we could get something to eat. I am a little hungry.”
Ushima
12-31-2018, 03:53 AM
Michael's stomach agreed with Ashira's suggestion. "That sounds good to me." With a smile, flanked by flushed cheeks, Michael took hold of Ashira's hand. "This way then." He led her through the street, finding a spot to eat as she requested. They found a nice looking place, a two story building with an upstairs patio. Even managed to get a seat out there. The patio overlooked the bazaar. It reminded him of their first meal on the pleasure planet. Their waitress was an older woman and given this was a mom and pop shop probably one of the owners.
"Here you go." She handed them menus, a single sheet but double sided. "I'll be back with some water."
"Thank you." Quickly he looked over the menu and selected what he wanted. But now came another problem, he didn't know what to talk about. Did he bring up the trip so far? Michael didn't think so. Didn't think mention her up coming marriage was a fantastic idea. Plus there were other bad points he didn't really want to bring up just again, his abuse at the hand of Simca being the main one. The army shrinks were going to have a field day with him when he got back. So he went with a cheesy joke. "So I'd comment on the weather at this point, but we're on a space station so that option is out. As much as I love traveling it'll be good to get planet time for awhile and enjoy some direct sunlight for a bit. Maybe work on my tan."
AngelDellaNotte
12-31-2018, 06:21 AM
Ashira found herself blushing as Michael took her hand and lead her into the cafe. The woman serving them had one of those faces that just made you feel comfortable. What she was doing on a rough station was a good question but it didn't seem polite to ask. To be honest she reminded Ashira of one of her governesses. The governesses had been so nice to Ashira and had practically raised both Ashira and Casper. It wasn't an uncommon thing among royals, especially children of a sitting monarch. The menus she gave them were mostly made of brunch, a few sandwiches and salads. She order a salad, despite being hungry she wanted something light. When the woman left there was an odd silence between them. They had been through so much together but didn't really know much about the other. Sure they had talked about past relationships on Haroni but that was about it. Michael started small talk about the weather. “You know when people first started branching out into space they found people didn't adjust well without the rhythm of day and night. Many people suffered mental break downs. That is why most stations adjust the lighting to simulate day and night. Some stations even use lights that simulate the UV rays of the sun.” Ashira said, realizing she was geeking out a bit. As a child she spent a lot of time studying. Especially when it had become socially unacceptable for her to play with the other children in the castle. Occasionally she would get to play with noble children but it was always different even the children knowing their was a hierarchy.
The woman came back putting their food before them and Ashira started eating. The silence returning, a bit more awkward despite with them both having a reason not to talk. She looked around the cafe and at Michael thinking she noticed the women from the tracks but she didn't mention it. First she wasn't sure it was then and secondly she knew she had over reacted to them. She didn't need to make it worse by pointing them out. Taking the conversation back to the weather it seeming like a safe topic she said, “My office on the base is twenty stories under ground. We have a artificial sun and moon that projects on each floor. There are even several gardens that make you feel like you are outside. Everyone stationed there is required to spend at least two hours of day either topside or in one of the gardens. It is strange at first but after a while you hardly seem to notice the difference.” She really shouldn't be telling him about her base it was top secret but she wasn't giving details about it and she felt she could trust Michael.
Ushima
12-31-2018, 07:29 AM
"It makes setting foot on the ground better. Whenever I had shore leave I'd hop a shuttle and go to the nearest planet. I'd find an island and land, spending my time isolated on a beautiful beach relaxing. Though I can't imagine how you'd spend that much time underground. Someone as pretty as you doesn't need to be holed up in a dungeon. Beautiful princesses shouldn't be locked in towers after all." Now he was flirting. If he could he'd tell Ashira she was gorgeous all day and then some and never get tired doing it. Then an idea passed through his head. Michael knew they were on some sort of time table. But he was given leeway to take the best route even if it is a tad bit longer. In order to act on his plan he'd have to check where a planet's current orbit is in the system. After everything that's gone on Ashira, hell all of them, could use some time to just sit and relax. Now he just had to stock up on some items while here on the station which he was sure wouldn't be a problem. The only one who would really object is Lillian but that wouldn't be an issue. "What would you say to me finding a secluded spot in Arutrian space where we could set down and recharge our batteries. No flying. No one shooting at us. Just us, a sandy beach and crystal clear water to relax."
AngelDellaNotte
12-31-2018, 10:18 PM
Everything Michael was saying sounded wonderful and she wasn't oblivious that he was flirting with her. She wanted to flirt back despite the growing conflict inside her Ashira knew she shouldn't. She closed her eyes trying to figure out what to do. They had been alloted more time than needed to get across space to account any delays. There are been a number already but they still were well on time. She really wanted to go to this planet but then what? They would get a much needed vacation but it had to end and they would be right back where they started? “What are we even doing?” Ashira said, dropping her face in her hands and crying. She had been holding it together the best she could. Traveling from one end of the universe to the other to marry a prince she didn't know to save her kingdom. It sounded like a noble idea in theory but no one had even asked her how she felt about it. She hadn't really dated anyone since her engagement ended and at first a arranged marriage seemed like an alright idea. Then Michael came along and she got to know him. She was falling in love with him. Running off with her escort would no doubt cause far more problems.
“What am I doing? Running across the universe to marry someone because it will end a war?” Ashira said continuing to break down. “Did anyone ever stop to think what I want to do? Did anyone ask me? No it was just go Ashira do this it's your duty. Your people need you. Give up everything you know so there will be peace. It isn't fair that all this is put on me!” Ashira shouted and stood up walking out of the restaurant into an alley.
Ushima
01-02-2019, 03:50 AM
"Ah shit." Michael cursed as Ashira got up and ran from the table. He was sure people were looking at him like he was the asshole who made his girlfriend cry. If only they knew the actual complexity of the situation.
"Hold up!" The waitress slash owner yelled at him. "You think you can just run out of here?"
"I'm sorry I have to go check on her. She ran out crying." Michael tried pleading his case.
"She can wait the one minute it'll take you to swipe your credits." He wanted to bite back but Michael knew the faster he did this the faster he was outside. Taking the royal card out of his pocket he swiped. His foot tapped impatiently as he waited for the transaction to process. Once the screen flashed green he started to move. "Don't you want your receipt?"
"Hell no!" Michael took the stairs two at a time, nearly falling down the last few steps. Outside the shop he looked around and didn't see her.
"She went out the back." A man's voice called him back into the shop. The bartender was cleaning a glass. "I don't know what you said but she was bawling her eyes out."
"Thanks." Michael was out the door the man pointed out and was in the alley. But it too was empty. Nothing but trash. "Damn it. She's fast when she wants to be. Probably back at the ship by now." With a deep sigh he walked to the end of the alley. But all he managed to get was five steps before he was struck from behind. He fell to the ground unconscious, tossed in a transport, and driven off.
AngelDellaNotte
01-23-2019, 08:55 AM
She stumbled down the steps barely paying any attention to where she was going. At the bottom of the landing she stopped her eyes full of tears. She didn't really know what she was doing. Standing there she felt her chest grow tight and found herself having a hard time breathing. There were a couple people in the bar near her smoking from some kind of glass jar, Ashira had never seen anything like it and thought that must have been why she couldn't breathe. She ran out the nearest door which just happened to be the back door. The fresh air didn't seem to help and she hunched over hoping that would but it only made her dizzy. A few moments later her legs gave out and she fainted on the ground.
Not far from her stood the women from the race track each of them with a confused look on their face. "Okay when the bosses said grab them I didn't think it would be this easy." One of them said, as she walked over and checked Ashira's pulse making sure she was still alive.
"Hey don't complain it's about time something went our way. Grab her feet and we'll put her in the van." Another said, picking Ashira up by the shoulders. It took a couple tries but they managed to lift her up and into the back of the van. They secured her wrists with a pair of cuffs then sat waiting for Michael. A short while later they were all in the van driving away.
Ashira woke up finding she was sitting in a chair or rather tied to a chair. Both her hands and feet were bound to the chair and she had tape over her mouth. Across from her the women sat at a table playing card. "Look the pretty one is awake. Maybe she can tell us why she looks so damn familiar." One of the women said.
"I'm telling you she probably does porn like the guy. You must have seen her in a flick.' Another said, tossing a coin into the air the catching it.
The first one walked across the room and started to pull the tape off but stopped, "Don't bother screaming you are in a sound proof room" She said, then pulled the tape off. "So who are you?"
"Afton Grant, I'm an art collector." Ashira said, recalling the cover Harlow gave her. "I've been told I have one of those faces everyone thinks they've seen before." She hoped they didn't recognize who she was but wasn't sure if she could get away with it. Her eyes were drawn to the sound of the coin hitting the ground and rolling toward her. It came to a stop next to her foot and she could see it was a Yoran collector's coin. The Yoran Empire mostly used credits but coins of the royal family were minted every ten years. This one happened to have been minted when she was nineteen and her face was right there for the kidnappers to see.
"I'm not buying it, nobody on this station uses their real name." The woman said, reaching down and picking the coin up. Without looking at it she tossed it back to the other woman.
Ushima
02-05-2019, 06:43 PM
The back of his head pounded as he woke up. Pain throbbed in the back of his head. Around him the world swam as he lifted his head slowly. "Ugh what the fuck happened?" Michael found that he couldn't move. He was tied to a chair and placed in a small empty room. "Alright!" He winced as he yelled, headache from the blow he took. "Ok what is going on here?"
A door in front of him slid open. Someone walked in wearing armor. Dark gray plates and head covered in a helmet. Behind him was another man wearing a much nicer outfit. Dark blond hair styled and swept nicely to the side. "You are Xander Thrust correct?" He was holding Michael's fake ID in his hand.
Michael nodded. "Yeah. You're holding my identification aren't you?"
"Yes, yes I am. Well Xander you may call me Thresh." Michael watched him as he moved across the room. "But I think you're lying."
"And what reason would I have to lie?" Michael asked, trying to prolong the inevitable.
"This is good, really good, but a fake none the less." Thresh tossed the ID aside, as if it was trash. "You see we saw you meeting with Korban earlier."
"He's a chill guy. Great racer. I'd like to think we became best buds. BFFs. Maybe we'll get matching charm bracelets." Thresh slapped Michael across the face to silence his rambling.
"My employers trust no one, you see. They have eyes on everyone. And Korban meeting three strangers? A little suspect." Thresh moved behind Michael, placing his hands on his shoulders. "What do you think? I can tell you love making comments."
"Oh maybe it's an affair? Is he married?" Michael smirked.
Michael didn't see Thresh nod but the guard did. Moving out of Michael's sight the guard grabbed a bucket and threw it's contents onto Michael, leaving him very damp. "You're very clever." The hands left his shoulder's and the man in black armor now stood next to him, holding to metal rods. "It's annoying. We'll get something out of you, though I'm sure there will many snide comments to get through first." With another nod the guard touched the rods to Michael's chest. Michael yelled in pain as his body was shocked. "Even if you don't tell us anything, maybe hearing your torment will make your girlfriend tell us something."
AngelDellaNotte
02-22-2019, 12:09 AM
The two women watching them soon were replaced by two men who didn't focus on her which Ashira was glad for until they started attacking him. They were trying to get information from him but he was resisting them. One of the men mentioned that it was only a matter of time before Ashira broke and they were right. “We are here to ask Korban watch someone we don't want following us. The Yoran government is after us and this person would tell them where we are.” Ashira said, knowing it wasn't a good idea to tell the truth but she couldn't let Micheal be tortured.
Thresh looked over to her and laughed, “You expect us to believe that?” He said, moving towards Ashira and back handing her. He was about to raise his hand to hit her again but the door to the room opened up and a man (https://66.media.tumblr.com/36682e5dfa6e8246bbe7106a56f087c5/tumblr_nqfnyxw7lM1s1ts8io2_1280.png) walked in shaking his head.
“Ah I hoped I would get here before my sister's goons.” He said, walking over to Thresh and pushing him away from Ashira. “No way to treat a woman but then what would an animal like you know?” He leaned down and looked at Ashira, her lip was swollen and bleeding from where she had just been struck. “Rue, I thought I said they weren't to be touched before I arrived?”
“Lionel, we didn't touch them. I can't speak for dumb and dumber.” The woman who had been playing with the coin said.
“You could have at least attempted to stop them. Good help is so hard to find.” Lionel said, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a silk handkerchief, dabbing it at Ashira's lip. He glanced over to Micheal briefly then focused back on Ashira seeming to not care about the pilot. “Now judging by their rough treatment you didn't answer Thresh's questions. You did remember to ask the questions this time didn't you?”
Ushima
02-22-2019, 07:46 AM
"He should ask better questions." Michael droned out lowly, as if each syllable hurt to get out.
Thresh's hand found it's way into Michael's short hair, gripping it hard causing him to wince. "This one has a bad habit of running his dumb mouth even in dire situations."
"Your mom didn't think it was dumb last night." Thresh let go of Michael's hair. Only because Michael had earned himself another quick jolt in the side.
Rue stood in front of Michael. "Your mother jokes? Really?" She turned to face Ashira. "What do you see in him darling? Surely a pretty girl like you could do so much better." Rue looked over her shoulder, expecting a snappy comeback or backhanded insult from the clever Arturian. But instead all she got was a string of bloody drool coming out of the side of his mouth. "Disgusting."
"Thank you madam." Thresh bowed. "While he's out would you like me to search for hidden memory caches?" Hackers used body mods and epidermal tech to run data.
"Do it." Lionel commanded.
Michael's wrists were unbound and Thresh went to work taking Michael's top off. Rue raised an eyebrow. "Now I see why you like him."
"We got a bandage here." Thresh turned Michael so his bandaged right arm was visible to everyone. The bandage that covered his Arturian tattoo. "Probably a recent implant job. I'll remove it."
AngelDellaNotte
03-22-2019, 08:09 PM
Thresh pulled the bandage off revealing the tattoo, “Huh an Arturian.” He said, looking down at Micheal.
“So what?” Lionel said, “You act like you've never seen one before. There have to be at least five hundred on the station right now. Keep questioning him when he wakes up and try not to kill him.” He focused his attention back to Ashira and leaned down removing the bonds from her then holding his hand out for her. “Perhaps we could go somewhere more comfortable to continue this discussion?”
Ashira didn't like the idea of leaving Michael alone with Thresh but Lionel seemed to be reasonable she might be able to clear all this up. Glancing over to Michael one more time she took his hand and stood up. “Hopefully we can clear up this misunderstanding.” Ashira said.
Lionel nodded as he placed his hand on the small of Ashira's back leading her from the room. He paused in front of Rue who was tossing the coin into the air again. “Make sure the lug doesn't kill him.” Lionel said, catching the coin in mid air and putting it in his pocket. They walked through the building until they reached a lounge. The Lionel fixed a couple of drinks, offering one to Ashira before sitting down in a arm chair. He sat there with his drink in one hand and the coin in the other. He twirled the coin around in his fingers. “An art collector with an aristocratic Yoran lilt, traveling with an Arturian.” Lionel said, “That is the story we are sitting to?”
“It isn't a story.” Ashira said, walking around the room looking at Lionel or rather the coin in his hand. That coin could ruin all of this, so far they seemed to be believing the story but that coin could unravel it all. She looked away from him fearing that she was looking too much at the coin instead focusing on the paintings on the wall. “The Arthurian is my security. He claimed that he was an expert of the region as it is known for not being controlled by either Arthuria or Yoran. Though it seems his services aren't that great.”
She didn't notice Lionel walk up behind her until he placed his hand on her shoulder. “It is a Sergio Cartel.” Lionel said. “Are you familiar with his work? His paintings can go for billions of credits but then again as a art collector you know that.”
Looking some more at the painting she realized why it was familiar to her. She had seen it before, well she had seen the original before. This was a fake, the real one was hanging in her uncle's office. She walked closer to the painting tracing her finger along the frame and looking closely at the piece. “It last sold at auction for 2 billion credits.” Ashira said.
“2.5 billion actually, set me back quite a bit.” Lionel said, taking a sip of his drink, his boasting evident.
“Shame it is a fake.” Ashira said, turning to Lionel who didn't seem all that shocked. She turned back to the painting pointing to the bottom right hand corner where the Sergio's signature was on the painting. “Sergio Cartel never signed the front of the painting usually he signed on the back in the upper right hand corner if he bothered to sign it at all. Not to mention the brush strokes show that whoever painted this was left handed. Sergio Cartel was right handed.” Years ago she would get so bored listening to her uncle drone on about his art collection. Now she was glad he had because she knew these little things to keep her cover.
“Impressive. The forger I commissioned it from charged me 20 thousand credits. However after noticing the flaws and the forger wasn't quite as good as he claimed to be and a little creative negotiations we compromised at 7 thousand credits.” Lionel said, “While I certainly could afford the original it isn't on the market.”
“What if I could procure you real thing?” Ashira said, thinking of a bluff hoping she could make this work and get them out of here.
Lionel didn't get a chance to answer her as the door opened and a woman stepped in. “Lionel, this is where you ended up and with the pretty one.” Hannah said, walking over to them and stopping at Ashira's side. She reached out and brushed her finger across Ashira's split lip.
“I saw her first.” Lionel said. The two of them staring off at each other like they were kids fighting over the same toy.
“Maybe we should let her decide.” Hannah said, looking from her brother to Ashira. “Tell me pretty do you enjoy the company of men or women better?”
“Depends on my mood.” Ashira said.
“Very well would you rather be worshiped or do you like it rough?” Lionel said, his eyes still locked on his sister.
“Again it depends on my mood.” Ashira said, wondering where they were going with this. It seemed to be some sort of game between the two. She didn't want to give either of them the upper hand so she stayed neutral.
“Then maybe we should leave it up to chance.” Lionel said, holding the coin up. He flipped it into the air calling out tails.
Before the he could catch the coin Ashira reached out and caught it, then quickly shoved it into her pocket finally taking that dreaded coin out of play. “I never mix business and pleasure. As I was saying how would you like to have the original?”
Ushima
03-25-2019, 07:51 AM
"So why do you think he covered this up?" Michael heard voices and someone prodding his arm.
"Probably some black ops stuff. Doesn't want any ties back to his government." Again he was prodded but this time on the other side.
"Guess he's shit at his job then." A third voice spoke. Michael slowly blinked back into reality. Before him stood the man who was torturing him. "Welcome back to the land of the living."
"Ugh I want to go back to sleep. I was having a great dream where I got to shot you in the face." Turning his head he spat, a bit of blood coming out. "Any chance a guy can get some water?" Painfully someone pulled his head back and squirted liquid into his mouth.
"Enjoy the hospitality while you can Arturian." Thresh was looking down at him. "Once our boss is done with your friend it is only a matter of time before you're dragged out of here and put down like a dog."
"If any of you hurt her I'll kill all of you." Michael fixed the grunts in the room with a harsh glare. As harsh as it could be tied to a chair. "Even if I'm dead I'll come back and haunt all of you till you off yourselves."
AngelDellaNotte
04-03-2019, 09:07 PM
“That painting is being held by a minor royal not interested in selling. Believe me I've had people reach out to him about purchasing it.” Lionel said, watching Ashira put the coin into her pocket. He seemed to be focusing on her hips rather than her pocket.
“Who said anything about purchasing it?” Ashira said, with a smirk on her face. “There are other means of acquiring art.”
“I am quite versed in art thieves and I have never heard of art thief names Afton Grant.” Lionel said, seeming skeptical and curious at the same time.
“We both know that isn't my real name.” Ashira said, leaning against the wall trying to look sure of herself without looking like she was lying or being too cocky.
“Perhaps but who do you claim to be that can steal from a royal?” Lionel said, taking another drink and sitting on the edge of a table.
“I take it we are not having fun tonight.” Hannah said, with a pout as she walked over to the bar pouring a drink.
“Olivia Wade.” Ashira said, dropping the name of a well known and reclusive art thief.
“You are Olivia Wade?” Hannah said, laughing so hard she spilled her drink.
“Yes.” She said, hoping that neither Lionel or Hannah had met her.
“Didn't she blow you off three or was it four times?” Hannah said, still laughing though this time at Lionel instead of Ashira. “You couldn't even get past her broker's voicemail. Now she lands right into your lap. Oh this is comical.”
“Shut up will you?” Lionel snapped at Hannah. “How much will it cost me?”
“Normally I would charge twenty-five percent above market value but given our situation I'll go with just market value.” Ashira said, having a hard time believing this was working. “Payment due on receipt.”
“Deal, but we keep your security as insurance.” Lionel said.
“No. He comes with me. We will have to trust each other.” Ashira said. She didn't want to leave Micheal and not just because she needed him to get to Arturia she still hadn't sorted how she felt about him.
“Oh this keeps getting better.” Hannah laughed again. It would seem she had refilled her glass at least once and was making quick work of it. Lionel cocked his head looking at his sister not having a clue about what she was talking about. Ashira hide it better than him but was just as confused until Hannah let them in on what she had discovered. “God, for claiming to be such a romantic you are dense. She's sleeping with him.”
“What's to stop you from running out on us?” Lionel said.
“As I said you will have to trust me.” Ashira said, thinking about how she intended to do just that, but it didn't matter if this worked then they would never need to see this station again. If Lionel had any ideas of coming after her he wouldn't get anywhere close to her with the protection of the Arturia army.
“Ah what the hell, why not it's not like I am out anything.” Lionel said.
“Except I don't get a playmate.” Hannah said, pouting again.
“You have plenty of other toys.” Lionel said. “You got a deal.” He lead her back to the room where Micheal was in and ordered Thresh to untie him.
As soon as he was free Ashira walked to him and pressed a kiss to his lips deeply kissing him. She pulled away and whispered, “Just play along.” Then she stepped back speaking aloud. “It's over they know who I am and have commissioned a job from me.”
Ushima
05-15-2019, 06:20 AM
Michael rubbed his wrists, glad his bounds were no longer aggravating his skin. "I get tortured and you agree to do a job for them? I'm starting to wonder if you really love me." The comment may have been a bit backhanded but it didn't matter. He already sold the persona of the talking joker and he had to stick with it. It wasn't like the other's would pick up on the romantic sexual tension that had been bubbling to a point anyway.
Lionel stepped forward. "Pardon my curiosity but what is it you do exactly? Security doesn't seem to be your area expertise."
"That's because it isn't." Michael stood, stretching. His joints popped as he moved and he let out an annoyed groan. "I'm a pilot. Best in the system. Guaranteed."
"We do need someone who can transport goods." Hannah raised an eyebrow, looking Michael up and down. "But that is a bold claim."
"Not really." Michael said without thinking. "I can fly circles around anyone. And if you're hiring my lovely sweetheart you're gonna need someone who can ensure safe delivery. So!" With a smile Michael wrapped an arm around Ashira and pulled her close, kissing the top of her head. "What are we snagging for our lovey hosts? Something good I hope."
AngelDellaNotte
06-10-2019, 05:42 PM
“Oh knock it off you know you are lucky to even be with me.” Ashira said, walking past him and stroking her hand across his cheek. “I'm way out of your league and you know it.” The Gideons had no idea how true that was. Hopefully they would be able to get out of here before anyone realized that she was a princess and he was her Arthurian escort. She kept walking towards the door noticing Thresh and Rue standing on the other side of the door. They wouldn't let them through the door without permission from the twins. She needed to wrap this up so they could get off the station never to return again. Lionel will just have to live with the fact he got dubbed. “We are getting a Cartel.” Ashira said, looking back at Michael again. “It's a painting. A very expensive one.”
“Now if you you will excuse us we need to start preparing for the heist. We'll leave right away and it should take a few weeks.” Ashira said, turning to Lionel ready leave.
“Yes, but first.” Lionel said, reaching into a desk and pulling out a communicator then handing it to Ashira. “With this you will be able to keep in touch with me. I will want regular status update. Oh and one more thing Rue will be going with you. Trust only goes so far. I don't know you so I don't trust you. Rue come in here.”
“Sir?” The woman said, walking into the room and glancing between the twins and them. Lionel explained the job to the enforcer and what her roll would be. “Very well. Lets hope you do your job then again perhaps you don't and I get to have some fun. Won't be for you but I don't really care either.”
“Rue, will escort you to the docks.” Lionel said.
They left the twins manor and were walking several paces ahead of Rue. This wasn't what Ashira wanted. They would have to get away from Rue but who knew if Lionel or Hannah sent anyone else to follow them. They couldn't make their move into they were ready to leave. They would have to make sure they were back at the ship and ready to go.
Ushima
06-16-2019, 02:53 AM
Michael scoffed when Ashira told him what they were grabbing. “How expensive can it be? It’s not a painting of you.” He brought his hands together and gave an over exaggerated sigh, like a lovesick fool, which he is. “She’s the best thing to ever happen to me.”
Hannah clicked her tongue. “Must not have been an exciting life.”
The Arturian smirked. “Excitement means nothing without the right person to share it with.” Michael’s excitement died when Lionel ordered someone to go with them. “Oh great a tag along. Guess we can’t do our pre heist ritual babe.”
Rue’s eyebrow raised curiously. “What ritual? Why can’t you do it?”
“Sorry darling I don’t do threesomes.” Michael winked. “I focus only on the love of my life.” Once they were allowed to leave Michael fell into step beside Ashira. “Oh darling.” He threw an arm around her shoulder, making it seem like they were a happy couple walking together. Michael leaned in and whispered, “Well this is getting ridiculous.” To Rue it was just two lovebirds trading sweet nothings. When in actuality it was voicing his displeasure. “Why is it women are always being added to the group? I was never this much of a chick magnet before. Guess what they say is true. When you’re single no one wants you. When you’re in love everyone does. But I take it we’re not actually stealing this thing are we? We just have to ditch Rue and any other tails then dip out of here to Arturian space?” If they could get into his territory Michael was sure he could slip away from any tails the twins sent after them. “This is going to be interesting.”
AngelDellaNotte
07-02-2019, 07:50 PM
She shook her head at Michael's overt show of affection thinking he might be laying it on a little thick. Still Ashira hooked her hand around his waist trying play along. She chuckled at his comment about attracting women. “I don't think it is you that is drawing them to us.” She said, with a smirk. “As for the painting yes, it is worth quite a bit and no we aren't stealing it. I only said that to get them to let us go. We need to get rid of her.” She reached into her pocket and pulled out a communication device. Thankfully the twins had given them their belongings back before leaving. Quickly she typed away on it sending a message to Lillian and Harlow.
Ran into some trouble, we are going to need to get out of her in a hurry. We have company that we need to get rid of. We'll be back to the ship in twenty minutes have the ship ready to go.
She slipped the device back into her pocket looking over her shoulder at Rue thinking she managed to keep her from seeing. “So the question is how do we lose our new friend there?” Ashira said, looking around and spotting a large crowd gathered two streets over. She redirected them to head toward the crowd, when they got closer she could see there was some sort of parade going on. People were riding by on floats waving and cheering at the crowd as they threw small beaded necklaces out. Behind the floats were people walking, it was a sea of people. Ashira grabbed Michael's hand and darted into the crowd. She wove through the crowd starting at first to be going along with it then cutting into an alley. They ran through the alley to another street with the parade on it as well. This parade was huge and spanned several blocks. “I think we can lose her in the crowds. We just need to keep jumping parades.”
Ushima
07-16-2019, 04:47 AM
"Oh boy do I love parades." Michael smirked to Ashira. "Maybe one day I can have a parade in my honor." He peaked around the corner and saw the head of their tag along bobbing above the crowd. "We need to slip away. Its only a matter of time before she calls her bosses and they lock down the docks." If Rue was like any other subordinate she'd attempt to apprehend them again before reporting her failure to her superiors. Its what he'd do. "Lets move." Grabbing her hand he pulled Ashira along and out of the back of the alley onto the next street. The parade was wrapping around the streets. Finding another gap they ducked through it and out the other side. There was no alley immediately on the other side so Michael lead Ashira down the street looking for a gap they can duck into. "How far are we from the port?"
AngelDellaNotte
07-25-2019, 08:36 PM
He asked how far away they were from the ship causing Ashira to pull out her communication device pulling up the station map. They were several miles away, there was no way they would make it on foot before Rue called for back up. “Too far. We need some sort of transportation.” Ashira said, locating the nearest station on the map. It was just a few blocks over. She grabbed Micheal's hand and pulled him into a run again. It was hard to make it to the station with the parade crowd but they managed to find their way to the station, only to find Rue standing outside it. “Crap, she must have figured we would come this way.”
Ashira started scanning around looking to see if there was another entrance but it looked like Rue was blocking the only one. So far Rue hadn't spotted them, she pulled him into a alleyway next to the station. It lead to a dead end. There was a fence there and the train tracks were below on the other side. “Okay I have a crazy idea.” Ashira said, climbing the fence and urging Micheal to do the same. She looked down the tracks waiting for the next train. “We can jump onto the roof of the car and ride it until we get to the port.”
Ushima
08-27-2019, 10:59 PM
"Crazy idea? I'm for it." Michael looked down at the tracks, eyeing the distance. If he missed it was over. But if he didn't jump it was also over. Captured and returned to the twins to be tortured and executed for trying to skip out on their agreement. And if there was one thing Michael didn't want it was to be tortured again. To be at the whims and mercy of someone else. "Jumping on a train. Not the riskiest thing I've done." The platform started to shake signalling the arrival of their ride. "Right on schedule." Michael watched as the train stopped at the platform, offloading passengers. Michael's eye caught a familiar figure standing at the platform. "Rue's there." She was scanning the platform for them, watching anyone getting on board.
"Now boarding." The platform speakers called out and passengers started getting on.
"We're in the later boarding group." Michael joked as he continued to watch Rue. Her gaze turned their way for a brief second so Michael grabbed Ashira and pulled her down into cover. "Doesn't she ever give up?" He couldn't wait to leave and get to Arturian space where he was sure these problems wouldn't persist. He hoped.
"Boarding complete. Stand clear of the platform."
"Here we go." Still holding onto Ashira he moved to get ready. "Just a short jump onto a moving train. You got this buddy." Michael slid his hand into Ashira's, giving it a gentle, reassuring squeeze. He looked into her eyes. "Got this." And he jumped.
AngelDellaNotte
08-30-2019, 03:04 AM
She followed Micheal's lead and jumped. The drop down to the train really wasn't that far but it felt like it was taking forever. At least until they slammed into the roof of the train. Unlike in the movies Ashira didn't land in the super hero landing pose but rather it was more of a belly flop into the roof. It hurt and the moment after she made impact she found herself rolling towards the edge. Ashira tired to grab onto anything but this was a sleek bullet train and there was nothing to get a hand on. She felt herself go over the edge but at the last minute something grabbed the back of her shirt and pulled her back to the middle of the train. Ashira was on something soft which was strange given they were on top of a train. She opened her eyes not realizing when she had closed them. Perhaps it had been when she was rolling off the edge. She was lying on Micheal. Had they not just made an action movie leap it would look like a compromising position. Or may it was fitting for an action movie as usually this was where they leading lady kissed the hero. Without really thinking she leaned into him and pressed a kiss to his lips.
Ushima
09-14-2019, 05:07 AM
Michael hit the train hard. Pain shot through his leg as he landed on his side. “Shit!.” He cursed. It was only once they were on the train speeding toward the next station did Michael realize a problem they had failed to notice. There was nothing to hold onto. Except for one thing that was currently digging into Michael’s side. The train car’s beacon light. A smallish red bulb that lit up during the station’s night cycle. Figuring out what this was Michael hooked his arm over it and secured himself. Immediately after he reached for Ashira. But she wasn’t next to him. She was sliding down the side of the car. Cursing, and in pain, he moved quickly while maintaining his hold on the light. Just barely he grabbed her hand as she went over the edge. He could only imagine what the people inside were thinking, seeing her body dangling from the side. With a mighty heave Michael hauled her up back on top of the car, on top of himself. With one hand refusing to let go to their only hand hold up her he wrapped the other around her waist. “It’s ok. I have you-“ Michael was cut off as Ashira swallowed the rest of his words in a kiss. It took him a second but he returned it, squeezing her tighter against him as they rode the train toward freedom. And seeing as he had nowhere to go and nothing to do but hold on for dear life, he continued the kiss. All the way to their destination.
“Please watch you step while exiting.”
The sound of the terminal computer broke them out of the kiss. Michael’s hand, which had previously been holding them in place, came up to caress her cheek. His thumb slinging back and forth. “You’re so beautiful.” He leaned in to give her another peck on her delicious lips. “As much as I’d like to stay here kissing we’re still in a bit of danger. We can do this back on our ship. I’ll put it on auto and lock Lillian in the cargo hold.” Reluctantly breaking apart Michael slid off the train between the cars. With his arms held out Ashira fell into his arms safely. “Perfect fit.” He flirted, giving her a smile before sneaking out and joining the crowd as inconspicuously as they could.
AngelDellaNotte
09-17-2019, 07:48 PM
As they disappeared into the crowd Ashira looked around trying to find Rue in the crowd but she couldn't spot her. It was hard to believe that they had lost her. Ashira didn't want to press her luck by saying it aloud so she just held on onto Michael's hand as they made their way back to the ship. When they arrived at the docks she was equally surprised that it wasn't swarming with guards. Either Rue hadn't called them or they were still on the way. She didn't think it would be the former so she quickened her pace up the ramp seeing Harlow sitting in the pilot seat. Lillian was in the back strapping everything down. The Yoran pilot moved out of the seat letting Michael have it and taking the co-pilot seat. Ashira wasn't really sure where she should be so she sat in one of the seats and buckled herself in. If this was anything like what they normally went through it was going to be rough.
“Everything is secure and the hatch locked lets get the hell out of here.” Lillian said, over the intercom.
Ashira pulled up the rear cameras watching for anything that would come up. As if on cue a group of guards appeared out of nowhere rushing toward the ship. A few of them stopped and started shooting at the ship. They had small arms fire so it was unlikely they would take the ship down but they could wreak havoc with some of the systems. “We've got company.” Ashira said, like the pings of bullets bouncing off the hull weren't enough of a hint.
Ushima
09-30-2019, 12:49 AM
“Ah shit.” Michael was at the controls. He was hitting everything he could think. “I don’t think we have enough power to pull ourselves out of the docking clamps. They got the new Blackhole Mark Three!”
Harlow looked at him, eyebrow raised in confusion. “Is that bad?”
“Fresh out of the security corps on Fel. Twins must’ve paid a fuck ton to get these across the board from Arturia. Like a Blackhole we’re not leaving. They’re clamped on tight.” Michael pounded the flight deck console.
“So what do we do? You didn’t come all this way to die on some rock.” Lillian was fixing him with a hard stare, as if to say ‘do not let the princess die here stupid.’
“Fuck!” Michael cursed. “We’re gonna have to go up top and release both clamps by hand. The mark threes are made by Faron Shipping Industries. They come with manual releases in case space docks loose power.” Several more rounds pinged off the hull of their ship. “We’re going to need covering fire while I go up the top hatch. Think you ladies can keep their heads down for a bit?”
Lillian opened a storage locker. “We only have two rifles.”
Michael made a face, opening his locker. Turning back around the other three saw him spinning a large hand cannon on his finger. Harlow whistled. “Nice. Overcompensating for something?”
“Ha very funny.” Stopping the spin skillfully so the handle was outward he held it toward Ashira. “This one’s my favorite. Take good care of it and she’ll take down anyone. I’ll need about four minutes at each clamp to go through the unlocking process.”
“It really takes that long? Harlow asked, grabbing a gun.
“No it’s just a lever. I need to get access to it by unscrewing a panel on the side. Just gotta find it.” Michael went back up to the front and hit a few buttons. A ladder unfolded itself from the ceiling and came down.
“If that’s the case I should come with you. I’m not much of a shot. Pilot after all.” Michael held up his hand to stop her. “What?”
“If I don’t make it back you need to get Ashira and Lillian to the capital.” Michael climbed two steps, looking down at them.
“All the more reason I should go instead!” Harlow raised her voice. “Don’t do some macho man bullshit and get yourself shot!”
“Oh trust me I don’t plan on getting shot again. Not before undoing both clamps at least.” Michael chuckled. “But if I do you’re the only other one skilled enough to get them there and end this war once and for all.” Before he ascended Michael leaned down and kissed the top of Ashira’s head. “Be right back darling.” And with that he opened the hatch, bullets already pinging off it, and climbed out.
AngelDellaNotte
11-15-2019, 04:40 AM
The weight of the gun in her hands was heavy, it was unlike anything Ashira had ever fired before and thanks to her military training she had fired a fair amount of gun. Until recently it had always been on the range. Since they started this trip that certainly had changed. Michael jumped out of the ship hugging close to it to avoid being shot. Lillian was at one of the doors taking shots at the guards while Harlow sat at the controls ready to take off as soon as they were clear of the clamps. She could see a group of guards hiding out behind another ship docked at their port side. Holding the cannon tightly she tucked it into her shoulder knowing the kick back on it was going to be intense. She sighted on the ship and squeezed the trigger. She didn't really need to aim as the cannon launched a round into the ship nearly destroying it in one shot. The kick on the cannon was more than she expected and she found herself being launched back into a bulkhead. “Damn.” Ashira said, looking down at the cannon.
She pushed herself up already starting to feel bruises on her backside and her shoulder. At the door she scouted around spotting another group hiding behind a ship a little behind the one she just blew up. It seemed like the twins had sent their entire security force to stop them. Lionel had to be pissed about hearing about them fleeing though it probably was Hannah that had brought everything down on them. Ashira leaned down to the clamps seeing Michael working on the first one. “Hurry up flyboy!” She said, then shot at the second ship being thrown back again.
Ushima
11-20-2019, 01:28 AM
Metal pinged as Michael poked his head out of the hatch. "Damn it." He hissed and he crawled out of the top. Bullets were flying everywhere so he ducked down. The mission was quick, on paper. Find the hatch, open it, pull the disengage switch. A task made harder while under attack. Taking the first harrowing steps forward. Reaching the first clamp Michael dodged a few rounds by vaulting over the clamp, bullets bouncing off the thick metal that held their ship in place. Taking a moment to catch his breath he looked along the clamp. That's when he saw it. Twenty feet along the arm of the clamp was a inset panel. "Longest twenty feet of my life." Grunting as he got up he began running, as best he could while stepping over hydraulic hoses. Off in the distance a ship exploded, shaking the docks. Michael fell onto the clamp hard. The wind was nearly knocked out of him as he pulled himself back onto his feet.
"What the hell is he doing?" One thug asked to another only to receive a shrug.
Michael dropped down and quickly started undoing the clasps on the hatch. "Come on, come on, come on!" Michael yelled as he fumbled the third, hands slipping. He was starting to sweat, the longer he was up here the more chances he had to catch another bullet. "Don't think about that man. You promised you weren't getting shot. You keep your word." Michael psyched himself up as he yanked off the last bit, throwing it aside he yanked the hatch open. With a satisfied yell the pilot grasped the switch, throwing it and the docking clamp jostle as the first one let go of the ship.
"Stop him! He's undoing the locks!" Someone yelled.
"Took them long enough!" Michael shouted as he ran back down the clamp. Bullets trailed him as he moved. "One down..one to go." But this next one wouldn't be easy as there were now a thug coming down at him. As Michael was crossing the hull of the ship he saw the man raise a gun. He threw himself down as bullet flew his way, pressing himself against the clamp to avoid getting hit. Once the metal sound of rounds bouncing ceased Michael chanced a peak. The thug was fiddling with his gun, jammed. Michael bolted towards him. The thug looked up from his jammed weapon in time to get tackled. The two wrestled on the clamp. But Michael was losing, being rolled over with hands around his neck. A gunship was floating nearby, men pointing their weapons at him and fired. It took all his strength but Michael pushed the thug over to block the bullet. Now free of the man's grasp Michael picked up the weapon, reloaded and fired. He managed to down a few before the ship was blown up.
From that brief struggle hitting the last clamp was easy. One bit of good luck was his fight with the thug took place right in front of the hatch. After releasing the last clamp Michael went back down to the ship. "Alright it's done!" He yelled as he climbed down the ladder. "Seal her up and lets go!" Michael was about to head to the flight deck, Lillian was coming back into the ship, when a guy was running up on the ship. Michael reached toward Ashira, drawing his hand cannon from the back of her pants. He aimed at the door and fired. Two rounds that loudly rang out in the ship.
Lillian, who had her hand on the close button, looked at him. "I thought you were a bad shot?"
Michael smirked, spinning the gun on his finger. "Even I can hit one that close." Once the ship was sealed up Michael joined Harlow and took his seat.
"Mind if we skip the safety demonstration?" She joked.
"Don't mind if we do!" Michael strapped himself in. "Hold tight!" The ship lifted off, Michael turning the engines and shot out of the station. "Plotting a course to the border." He smiled. "Then home."
AngelDellaNotte
01-30-2021, 04:13 AM
She followed Michael to the front of the ship watching him sit down and banter with Harlow then take off. She froze at the word 'home'. It was his home but it wasn't hers. At least not yet. With everything going on it was easy to forget the reason for this journey. She was on her way to be married to a man she didn't love, hell a man she didn't even know him. Looking at Michael she frowned turned walking to the back of the ship. She went back to the living area sitting down on a sofa. Ashira didn't notice if Lillian had already been in the room or if she followed her in. However she did notice as the other woman sat down next to her. “I know it is hard. I should have known I wouldn't be able to stop you two from becoming close.” Lillian said, patting Ashira on the leg. She could tell just by looking at Ashira and Michael the two had grown close. She was sure neither had acted on the feelings they both no doubt had.
“I have a duty to complete. You don't have to worry about that.” Ashira said. At the start she had resented Lillian fighting against them bonding but now she understood her guardian was trying to prevent the pain she was now feeling. “I suppose you were right about him. I should have kept my distance.”
“I didn't want to be right and I should have known it wouldn't have been possible either.” Lillian said, “I'm sorry you have to be placed in this position.”
“I was born into privileged and that comes with responsibility. The needs of my people comes before my own needs. If I don't do this gods know how many more people will die.” Ashira said, standing up and walking to a window watching the stars fly by.
Ushima
01-30-2021, 05:59 AM
Michael was watching the stars pass by the cabin. After blasting out of the space station he set a course for Arturian space and set the auto-pilot. His father's old handcannon was in his hand as he idly spun the chamber. Feet were up on the console as he sat in silence, the occasional beep from the controls making him lift his head. "You all in there?" Harlow's voice broke him out of his musings.
"Yeah I'm just thinking." He gave the cylinder a harder spin, holding the revolver up and watching it. "Thinking about what's first back in Arturian space. Get as far as we can and hit a space station and refuel? Hop planet side for a night or two of time on land, Some actual ground beneath our feet. And then there's what to do with you. Are you going to stick with us all the way to Arturia or do we put you up in a hotel till the treaties are signed? And then there's what happens if we're found out. We've already seen what happens so to my government, except the highest memebers, I'm essentially a traitor. Clearly I'm not but fleet captains won't know that. Only the Admiralty and their crews. You don't have any Yoran tatoos do you?" Michael asked, remembering his incident when his bandage came off revealing his Arturian ink for all to see.
"I'll get back to you on what I'm planning?" Harlow answered.
He was about to speak again when his stomach let itself known that it was empty and required food. "I'm gonna get a snack. Want anything?"
I'm good." Harlow answered, bringing up the star map to look at it.
Michael got out of his seat. "Be right back." Heading through the door into the crew quarters Michael approached the storage lockers. Popping out the cylinder of his gun spent rounds fell to the floor. Taking the unspent bullets out and storing them away Michael placed the gun away. Closing the locker door and turning around he came face to face with Lillian. "Yes?"
"Hold still." She gave him a once over. "No blood." Reaching for his shirt she lifted the front. "No holes. Kept your promise."
Michael smirked. "I try." Moving around Lillian he went to the fridge. Opening he let out a whistle. "Hey the restocked our supplies before we dashed out of there." Reaching in he grabbed a flavored drink and set it on the counter. "Anyone want anything?" He asked as he continued to rummage around.
AngelDellaNotte
02-04-2021, 10:33 PM
“I'm okay but perhaps I'll take something up to Harlow.” Lillian said, reaching in grabbing a ready made sandwich and a fruit drink. She walked passed Ashira who was still standing by the window watching out of it. If Ashira noticed Michael walk into the room she didn't show it. Lillian figured she was lost in her thoughts knowing it was something the Princess was very good at. Whenever she was working a problem back in the think tank she could get lost for hours and not have a clue what was going on around her. Lillian gently bumped into Ashira as she passed by, “You should eat something your highness.”
“Huh?” Ashira said, looking up at her guardian who lifted the food she carried as she left the room. “Ah yeah.” She said, walking to the fridge still lost in thought and not fully paying attention as she reached for the already open hand and pulling it on it. She didn't notice that it was open nor that Michael was leaning on it. Her pulling on it causing him to lose his balance and stumble. “Oh sorry.” She flushed.
Ushima
02-05-2021, 01:00 AM
"Alright keep our hotshot fed." He yelled after Lillian. Michael had his head buried in the fridge. Trying to decide between which cheese for his sandwich he wanted. They had his favorite Arturian product in the fridge, the space port near the boarder helped. But the Yoran stuff he'd been munching on during the trip was good too. In the end he decided on the Yoran, figuring it was better to eat that and have it found during an inspection by Arturian forces. The less questions he needs to answer the better. "Alright this is gonna be good." Unlike Lillian, who wanted a premade meal, Michael was more than happy to prepare a dish to his own satisfaction. With the perfect proportions of meat, cheese and mustard. The synergy was important.
But his synergy was thrown off. Something bumped his lower back, moving him further into the fridge. His head came up with a rather loud smack. "Fuck!" Withdrawing himself from the fridge he set the cheese counter next to his salami and bottle of mustard. His other, right, hand was rubbing the sport he impacted the fridge ceiling. He closed the fridge door with his now free left hand, not wanting to let out the cold air. Turning around he saw Ashira looking at him. "Guess we can say I got hurt on this op after all." She didn't laugh. It was the first time since he's met her that Ashira seemed so...small. He didn't like. The royal, fierce, headstrong princess wasn't supposed to be seem small. Not the Ashira he knew. Not the girl who made his palms sweat, made his heart beat faster whenever she looked his way and smiled. Not the woman who made the pain, the horrid memories fade my just being near. "Hey, what's wrong?" Michael's right arm came down from his head and wrapped around Ashira's lower back, rubbing a small comforting circle. "Speak to me."
AngelDellaNotte
02-05-2021, 01:44 AM
It would have been so natural to lean back into his strong hands. She really wanted to but duty told her she couldn't. Instead she gracefully disengaged herself from him and slid around the kitchen bar dropping onto a stool. She wanted to say what was bothering her but couldn't find the words. To avoid the awkward silence between them she picked up a piece of cheese taking a bite and chewing. It was a cheddar cheese and she preferred a Swiss. "We are almost there." She said, not fully saying what was bothering her.
That was the hard part. How do you explain to someone you care a great deal for that you need to distance yourself because in a short while you would be marrying someone else. That if you didn't follow through with it millions of people on both sides would die. The pressure of that alone should have been too much. Adding in the fact that she had feelings she couldn't explain for her escort and it was near unbearable.
What was it between them? She didn't know. They had become friends. That was unquestionable. But was there more? Her logical mind told her there couldn't. But logic wasn't what had been guiding her on this trip.
Ushima
02-05-2021, 06:15 AM
His hand reached out to pull her back but she slipped through his grasp before he could close his hand. Locks of her hair ghosting his finger tips. Her retreating form caused a pit to form in his gut. He didn't like it. Ashira was probably the most amazing woman he'd ever met, besides his mother the fearsome dropship pilot. He was a momma's boy after all. The fearsome princess haunted his thoughts ever since their first adventure. Their adventure. He was to escort Ashira to be the bride of Prince Casius. The little brother of his best friend, heir to the throne Prince Cas. Casius was not like his older brother. Where Cas was action oriented, heroic and gun-ho. Casius was emotional and easily provoked. Ashira would walk all over him. Countless times Michael teased him and got him to make a fool of himself. Michael was also godfather to Cas' firstborn son. An honor that should have gone to the brother. Casius saw this as another slight. Casius hate Michael. One of many who have strong feelings against the disgraced Lieutenant. If the stars somehow aligned, his reputation alone would be enough to have her mother throw him in a penal colony doing hard labor. "Yeah we're close. Maybe a couple days to a week if all goes well." He knocked on the counter, turning to start on his sandwich.
~
Harlow and Lillian sat in the flight deck. They were huddled over the security screen. On it was Ashira and Michael in the mess. Harlow nudged Lillian. "Should I have made popcorn?"
Lillian rolled her eyes. "I'm glad I disabled sound on this."
~
Michael laid down the bread. Perfectly aligning the meat and cheese. Layering mustard between the slices. "I was thinking we could stop at either Nakota or Zulian." He offered. "Maybe two days to get so solid ground under our feet. Being in space too long with the stressful situations we've been in? Could use some time without recycled air. My parents first date was at Zulian actually. After she ignored his orders to pull back she went back in to pull a team out that was pinned down by heavy Yoran shelling. After she gets back, fireteam demands he pins a medal on her, he does. Gives her a Platinum Skull. Then he asks her out when they're on R and R." Michael scoffs. "Two of the most unlikeliest people. Ma says it was a miracle I was born. All their friends didn't think they'd last but man does he spoil her."
Moving away from the table Michael had a plate with a sandwich in his hand, drink bottle hanging from his fingers. In his other held another sandwich and drink. Coming up behind Ashira he set the drink down followed by the plate in front of her. Leaning down he placed a gentle kiss to the top of her head. "Everything will be ok." With a gentle pat to her back, maybe a little lower than he intended as he was fumbling a sandwich and drink, he left to go back to the flight deck.
Once he was through the door Harlow and Lillian seemed to scramble away from something. "So that sandwich looks good." Harlow smirked at him.
Michael forced Harlow out of the captain's chair. Sitting himself down he put his feet up and took a bite of his sandwich. Popping open his drink he set it in the cup holder. "See," Michael swallowed his food before continuing. "This is why you both will be old maids."
AngelDellaNotte
02-08-2021, 05:55 AM
She listened to him talk about his how his parents got together a smile on his face. She didn't really have stories like that about her parents. Much like her they had a arranged marriage. It had been good luck that the two of them got along. She recalled her mother telling her at first she felt no love for her father but she did enjoy his company. Over the years they had fallen in love. Ashira had read stories in the past of her great grand parents who had an arranged marriage and they hated each other until the day they die. They had lived together long enough to fulfill their marital duties, producing two children, an heir and a spare. After that her great grandmother retired to Mydar the farthest planet from the Captial, the two of them only saw each other a handful of times after that.
Ashira wondered what her life with Prince Casius would be like. She knew very little about his personality really only knowing what was in his file which to be honest wasn't much. Michael finished his story and placed a sandwich in front of her then placed a kiss on her head before leaving the room. Ashira stared at the sandwich not hungry. She did pick up the drink and had some of it.
In the cockpit Lillian scoffed at Michael's old maid comment. “I'm more of a eternal bachelor, and trust me I have no problem finding someone to warm my bed.”
-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-
Two days later...
They were in the space outside of Zulian waiting for clearance to be granted. The papers they had been given should hold up as Michael had brought them with them and they were authentic not forged. Ashira wasn't worried and was back in the galley. She had been spending a lot of her time alone the last couple of days. Either in the galley or her bunk. Her companion had been a tablet and headphones. Like she had been watching the last few days she had a tutorial video by Vera Von Wayne a old Yoran actress. She had made her career playing villains which translated to playing an Arthurian. After retiring from the screen she had begun teaching. Whenever an actor needed a vocal coach they went to Vera Von Wayne. Ashira had been watching her videos trying her best to learn a Arthurian accent not wanting to stand out as a Yoran. She didn't have any Yoran tattoos so her accent would be the most noticeable thing about her. She hoped that she could cover it but hadn't practiced with anyone so didn't know if it was any good.
Ushima
02-08-2021, 07:45 AM
"Zulian tower this is Nighthawk. Once again requesting permision to land." Michael hit the mic button, muting himself. "Fucking prick. They love making people wait."
Harlow raised an eyebrow. "Seems they got a stick up their ass."
"Its like this all the time." Michael explained. "The more money you have the sooner they give you clearance too land. I've done enough escort with the royal family. Saw plenty of ships waiting in line to start their vacation. Classist assholes."
Lillian sgihed. "Different systems, same problems."
"Some things are universal." Michael unmuted himself. "Oi Zulian clearance tower I got an open pad on the north I think I'm gonna go ahead and land there ok?"
After a few clicks there came a response. "You crazy bastard."
Michael pinched the bridge. "Oh hell no. You working the tower today you old codger?"
The viewscreen came to life showing an man, in his late fifties. Graying hair on his head and a short beard. On his face was a visor that was used to monitor everying. "Holy shit it is you. I always remember a voice. Its been three years since you last terrorized the airspace."
"I told that paparazzi to piss off and he wanted to test me by flying too close to the Arminia (https://media.robertsspaceindustries.com/dbl4dtyvzkqao/source.jpg). So I chased him off. Nearly ran his puddle jumper into the side of a mountain." Michael adjusted himself in his seat, sitting up to his full height. Now looking imposing he addressed the man. "Listen Salazar I need to land. Got some high value VIPs that want some rest in a mountain retreat. Let me cut in line and I make it worth your while."
Salazar stroked his beard a moment then grinned. "Hehehehe I knew I liked you. You were always easier to deal with than the other security chiefs. Always cut the bullshit and went straight to the point. Throw me a few credits and promise not to shoot down any craft and you can head to spot thirty seven." Both men started hitting buttons on their pads. Salazar got the credits and Michael got coordinates. "Now how long you staying?"
"Two days." Michael finished the transaction. "You take care of yourself old man." Salazar gave him a friendly salute and signed off the screen. Hitting a few buttons Michael gripped the controls and headed into the atmospher. Zulian (https://pm1.narvii.com/6698/22359ab2de6de335b2ed0fa01d2e25056918062c_00.jpg) was a forest and mountanious planet. Numerous paths to hike and mountain streams and lakes provide enjoyable scenery. There were also multipole lodges that housed restaurants, shops and other entertainment venues to relax in. Michael had enjoyed the times he ran escort for his friend. Only thing missing was his favorite starfighter.
~
Landing the X-105 on the landing pad was easy. It was in a cleared out section of trees on a mountain. A walkway led up to a private cabin (https://homeworlddesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Edgeland-House-1.jpg). Very luxurious, display screens and sleek tech. Harlow let out a whistle. "Arturians love their toys."
"We do indeed. Artutrian engineering. Nothing rolls out of the factory without rigorous testing. Its why the tide of battle constantly were going back and forth during the war." Michael hit a few buttons and settled the ship. "Yoran would roll out a big bad machine and Arturians would come up with a new toy. And vice versa. New toy we pump out and your techies bring out some new beast to pound it into the ground. Classic arms race." Shutting the ship down Michael stood up. "Ladies and...well me. We've landed out our destination so please take your luggage and please proceed in an orderly fashion to the exit."
"So who's getting the master bedroom?" Harlow teased.
"Tch who do you think?" Michael chuckled. "The upstairs suite is usually for parents. There's two rooms and a bathroom downstairs for others." In the crew quarters Michael gathered up some clothes and shoved them into a duffle bag along with his handcannon. Better safe than sorry. "You ladies ready?" He wanted to get a swim in before lunch. As much as he loved flying sometime you had to come down to really appreciate being up there.
AngelDellaNotte
02-08-2021, 08:59 PM
She hadn't noticed they had landed or that the others had entered the crew cabin. Both Harlow and Michael grabbed their bags heading to the ramp. Lillian grabbed her bag and Ashira's walking to the princess and dropping the bag in her lap. “Ashira snap out of your research mode. We are here.” Lillian said, she was used to this side of Ashira though she was surprised because this was the first time on the trip she had retreated. After her failed engagement with Edmund the princess had thrown herself into her research for weeks and hadn't seen an ray of the sun the entire time staying in the bunker. It wasn't until Lillian had enlisted the help of Casper who literally picked Ashira up and carried her out of the bunker kicking and screaming. He had deposited her right into a lake and told her to stop sulking.
Lillian hoped Ashira wasn't falling into that sort of depression again. She knew Ashira had mixed feelings for Michael and her mission. To be truthful Lillian didn't know how this would work out for the princess. She really didn't see a perfect ending, whether she went through with the wedding or she ran off with Michael, she wouldn't be happy. Ashira wasn't your typical royal and really was a good person. Lillian wished Ashira wasn't going through this.
Seeming on auto-pilot Ashira stood up with her bag and was ushered out by the guardian. She fell in step behind Harlow and Michael walking into the cabin. Without thinking she walked to the master bedroom dropping her bag down on the bed then walking out to the back patio staring out into the woods.
“Is she okay?” Harlow asked, it being impossible not to notice the change in the princess' attitude. The time she had known Ashira she had never acted like this. It wasn't the princess she knew.
“She's got a lot on her mind. The closer we get to Arturia the more real our mission gets. But for her it isn't just a mission. This is her life. I think it is starting to sink the amount of responsibility she has. Ashira has always been so mature I think sometime we forget how young she really it. Give her time. She'll pull out of it.” Lillian said, though she didn't really know if she would.
Ushima
02-08-2021, 11:46 PM
Michael momentarily stiffened when he overheard Lillian and Harlow talking about Ashira. She had been acting different the last two days. Isolating herself. Face buried in a vid screen doing research. He’d even overhear her practicing an Arturian accent while he was in the shower. It was a polarizing change in her demeanor since he met her. She was always strong and upfront. Now she was withdrawn and avoiding making eye contact with him whenever he would saunter into the room. Michael didn’t know whether they needed to hug it out or shout it out. Or if confronting it was a good option at all. Was this the best option? To just drift apart with only the minuscule heartbreak they have already suffered?
“Hey.” Harlow nudged him. “You said there are two bedrooms downstairs right?”
“Yeah.” Michael shifted the weight of his bag on his shoulder. “Two rooms and a bathroom.”
Harlow wiggled her eyebrows. “So who’s gonna shack up with who? Wanna share big boy?” Rolling his eyes Michael walked downstairs. The hallway had three doors. One on each side was a bedroom and the door on the end led to the bathroom. Entering the room Michael tossed his bag on the bed and shut the door behind him. There came two quick knocks. “Let me know if you change your mind!”
Unzipping the bag he put his clothes away in the dresser. Michael ran his hand over the dresser. Real wood. One of Zulian’s novelties was having real wooden furniture. A style long since died out ages ago. With clothes unpacked and gun resting on his bedside table the pilot decided he had earned some time to relax. Given the numerous times he’s been hurt, physically, mentally and emotionally, Michael decided to go for a dip. Changing into just a pair of black shorts he grabbed a towel the resort provided and went back upstairs.
Harlow was helping herself to the liquor cabinet upstairs in the kitchen. The hidden compartment rising revealing bottles of different colors. Pouring a green drink she spotted Michael strolling through on his way out. “Hubba, hubba momma likes. Those your military issued briefs?” Her eyes flicked down to the tight clothing Michael was forced to wear. “Or custom fit?”
“Be a shame to not use the amenities while we’re here.” Michael replied ignoring her comment, sliding the door to the back patio open.
Harlow helped herself to a lounge chair. “Think I’ll enjoy the scenery.”
Lillian’s voice floated out from the kitchen. “Someone’s thirsty!”
The Yoran ace held up her drink. “That’s why I made one of these!”
Michael stretched his arms up, popping some of his joints. Approaching the pool he stood on the edge. Taking a deep breath he jumped, diving head first into the water. Faintly he heard Harlow shriek and shy away from the water. The water was cool but not as cool as the storm in his heart. He was drowning, metaphorically, in emotion and desire. He knew he couldn’t be selfish. He’d never been in his life, even throwing away his career to save his juniors. People he didn’t even know. And would not start now. Even though part of him desperately wanted to. Grab Ashira and find some moon to hide away from the troubles of the universe. Like one of his mother’s romance vids. But no, he’d do his job and let the tide consume him.
AngelDellaNotte
02-15-2021, 08:31 PM
Staring out into the woods Ashira was lost in thought yet her mind wasn't focused. She didn't know how it was possible to have her mind racing but was so jumbled that it didn't make sense. After a while she somehow tuned everything out in her head and just looked at the trees. She thought she saw something move in the trees and it caught her eye. Why this caught her eye she didn't know. This was a forest, there no doubt were animals or birds. What she saw though was strange in all this green she saw this flash of red. Ashira found herself walking off the patio and onto a pathway. Thankfully this path seemed designed for tourists not to get lost as there was a small wooden fence that went to her mid thigh preventing her from wandering into the woods and get lost.
It guided her into a small clearing where she thought she saw the red blur run, or did it hop? Ashira wasn't sure. She had yet to get a clear view of it. In the clearing though there was a statue of a woman and man embracing each other. Ashira wondered if it was just a random statue or if there was a story behind it. The way the two held onto each other seemed forbidden to her. She wasn't sure why but it just did. Like they were stealing away a moment that they shouldn't. She really didn't know much about Arthurian culture. She supposed that would have to change after her marriage seeing as her and Prince Casius would be the first people in fifty years to be granted dual citizenship.
As she was looking at the statue the red blur (https://i.pinimg.com/564x/17/26/7d/17267dde1b50b63e796411906bb2ca08.jpg) jumped up on the statue landing on the male's shoulder. It seemed to be looking at Ashira just as intently as she was looking at the statue. Slowly she took a step toward the statue not wanting to scare the creature but wanting to get a better look. It looked like a rabbit except for the red color and a small horn on it's head. Despite moving closer the creature it didn't run away. It no doubt was used to people coming and going at the resort. It just sat there looking at her the closer she got until she was right next to the statue, it's beauty lost as she focused only on the creature.
Without thinking Ashira reached out to touch the creature it looked so soft, she didn't get to as it jumped from the statue. At first she thought it was going to run back into the woods but instead it landed on her shoulder. This caught her off guard and she just froze. It was light, she could barely feel it's weight on her but she could feel it's little claws on her shoulder. They weren't sharp like they were meant to cut but probably would cling well to bark allowing the creature to climb trees. Though the creature wasn't still it jumped from shoulder to shoulder. A moment later she realized the creature had the end of her scarf in its mouth then it jumped from her shoulder to the pathway taking the scarf with it.
“Hey!” Ashira said, as the creature sat there a smug look on it's face still holding the scarf. It was a green color with little flakes of gold in it. Her brother had given it to her on her last birthday. “Didn't anyone ever tell you not to take things that aren't yours?” She stepped closer meaning to take the scarf back but the creature bounced off running under the fence meant to corral tourists. Ashira ran after the creature jumping over the little fence and chasing the creature through the woods. It twisted and turned, Ashira had lost track of where she was going but didn't even think of getting lost. She followed the creature as it ran through some bushes.
Being fit Ashira easily cleared the bushes but was surprised when she didn't find ground on the other side. Instead she splashed into some water. It wasn't a lake or pond as the water had a slight chemical taste to it. When she cleared the surface she realized she was in a swimming pool. Looking around she notice Michael on the other side then the creature who was sitting on a rock feature with a small waterfall dripping into the pool. Ashira wasn't sure how but the creature looked like it was laughing at her as it sat comfortably on her scarf.
Ushima
02-15-2021, 10:09 PM
Michael was floating on his back in the unit’s pool. “Ah this is nice.”
“Hey flyboy?” Harlow called out, causing Michael to turn around and face the lounging ace. “What’s the resort’s policy on no tops?”
Lillian came out of the cabin, drink in hand. “Keep your clothes on. We don’t want to attract too much attention.”
Michael smirked, sensing his moment. “Oh we wouldn’t have to worry about. She’d scare everyone away.” Harlow did a spit take and Lillian erupted into giggles.
“They lad finally scores a point.” The bodyguard took a spot next to Harlow. “You’ve trained him well.”
Harlow faked whipping tears from her eyes. “I’m so proud. Seems like I’ve rubbed off on him.”
“That isn’t the only thing you want to rub off.” Both woman laughed, clearly enjoying themselves with the copious amounts of alcohol. Michael made a note to fix himself a drink later. He started a backstroke down the length of the pool. It was calm now. The joking and laughing did well to release the tension building up in him a little bit. A soft smile spread across his face as he basked in the sunlight and water.
“She fell!” Harlow’s elated laughter pierced his thoughts causing Michael to float normally. Lillian’s giggles joined in.
“Hope you know how to swim!” Michael said as he watched Ashira’s head emerge from the water. A flash of red scuttling across the tiles, green flapping in the wind behind it. A furry creature sat upon the waterfall unit. Red fur and horn, four deceptively stumpy legs. Big ears and eyes and short cotton tail. “Hey little guy.” Swimming over to the side Michael pulled himself out of the water. Right in front of the lounge chairs, flashing the increasingly drunk women his damp chest.
Harlow let out a wolf whistle. “Got anything tighter?” Michael’s face flushed a dark crimson as he tugged up his shorts a little. Grabbing his towel off a lounger he wiped himself down quickly. “Do the floss! Oof!” Michael shut Harlow up by throwing the towel in her face.
Casually, he didn’t want to spook the guy, Michael approached the ball of red fluff. He could feel Ashira’s eyes on him as he moved. “What you got there buddy?” The creature looked up at him as he crouched down with big, friendly eyes. His tiny tail wiggled excitedly. When Michael was low enough the red bandit jumped up into his arms. The green fabric came up over Michael’s head. Shaking his head it fell from his head and hung over his shoulder. “Well, well, well I know what this is.” Raising a hand tickled the creature’s belly, causing him to let go of what Michael could now see is a scarf. His left hand grabbed the scarf, holding it away. His right arm held the creature to his chest.
Walking back over to the lounger Michael set the scarf down next to Lillian. Now with two limbs he stroked the creature. “This is an Oleran. Harmless little critters. You can find them all around here. But this is a rarity. They don’t normally get this close to people. Actually it almost never happens. Olerans are quite agile and have insane reaction time. Some scientists claim they can even predict another’s moves to avoid them. Hmm I wonder?”
Lillian lowered a pair of sunglasses and looked at Michael. “Wonder what?”
“Well there’s an old wives tale. When Arturia was setting up and the eleven planets were just blossoming frontiers.” Michael’s finger scratched under the Oleran’s chin. “It a folk tale that Olerans only get close to humans when there’s a presence of true love or when someone’s heart needs guidance.” The Oleran turned in Michael’s lap to look in Ashira’s direction, nose and tail twitching. “But that can’t be true remember? Only one of use is getting married.”
AngelDellaNotte
02-16-2021, 10:09 PM
The water was cool but not uncomfortably, Ashira looked around the pool area seeing everyone but her properly dressed. She was the only one in the pool still in her travel clothes. Everyone was easy and joking about her falling in the pool. It was nice to have this, had she been back home servants would be coming out of the woodwork to 'rescue' the princess from the pool. It made her think of a time when she had been six when she and Casper were playing. There had been a similar chase ending with her in a pond. Everyone had freaked out but then again Ashira didn't know how to swim yet. Now though no one moved to her aid. Not that she needed it. It was nice to just be normal. Almost like they were just a group of friends having a good time.
Ashira gave Michael a light splash when he joked about her knowing how to swim. After the pond event Casper had been determined to teach his little sister how to swim. Ashira had really enjoyed it and spent most of her school years on the swim team. She watched him move to get out of the pool not wanting to admit that she was admiring how the water dripped off his muscles. She wasn't alone in her gazing as Harlow and Lillian watched as well.
Ashira swam to the edge of the pool pulling herself out as well, thankfully Harlow was too distracted with Michael to mention the shear white shirt she was wearing that left nothing to the imagination as to what kind of bra Ashira was wearing. She grabbed a towel and wrapped it around her shoulders doing a fair job hiding her chest area. She moved closer to Michael listening as he described the Oleran. The legend about them was interesting. Ashira had always thought of Arthurians being war mongers and didn't think they had things like this. She kept her distance at first not wanting to scare the creature off. “Perhaps it is here because of Harlow's inability to get a date.” Ashira teased, looking over to the red faced drunk woman. She had brought out a sandwich along with her drinks. Ashira reached over to her and pulled the lettuce off the sandwich getting a grunt from Harlow.
She then sat down next to Michael holding the lettuce out to the Oleran. The creature sniffed at it then jumped from Michael's lap, across Ashira's lounge and onto Harlow's chest. “See, I told you.” Ashira said. The Oleran reached up to the sandwich and pulled the ham inside of it out then jumped back to Ashira's lap settling down to eat the meat. “Or not.” She said, afraid at first to touch it. When she did though she scratched behind its ear causing the creature to make a sound that was a cross between a purr and a groan.
“Hey my sandwich!” Halrow said, looking down seeing there was only bread and tomato left. “And I have no problem getting a date. I just have been busy lately. No time for dating.”
“Sure hotshot, lets go make some more.” Lillian said, helping Harlow up. She had no intention of letting Harlow stumble through making sandwiches. Arthurian liquor was stronger than Yoran liquor and the only thing Harlow was going to have was a nap. She helped the pilot up and into the house.
Ushima
02-16-2021, 11:26 PM
Michael scratched the side of his head. "Yeah they are also carnivores. Scavengers really. Who'd have thought?" Michael watched the two drunken ladies bicker about sandwiches. The little Oleran sat and ate happily in Ashira's lap. The great creature of legend that guides and blessed people on the path to eternal love and happiness. All that aside, all the drama packed away, the feelings of inevitable emotional destruction, Michael was getting to a sense of peace within his heart and mind. Two days to relax would do him some good. Do them all some good honestly. But now he was a loss for words. There wasn't a rule about who spoke first but Michael wanted to. To break the silence himself and somehow prove he was strong enough to move forward. The Oleran, satisfied with its meal, let out a tiny burp and curled into Ashira's lap for a nap. Settling itself it's body did a final comfortable shiver before stilling and evening it's breathing. Michael had a thought to find out if it was male or female. He didn't want to keep calling it an it the entire time it was in their company. "Adorable thing isn't it? I've seen many exotic animals but this is the first time I'm seeing an Oleran in person. I think it likes you." Michael thought he was being lame but at least he wasn't talking about the weather. What the two didn't see, caught up in their moment of relaxation, was Lillian in the doorway snapping a picture of the two, a small mile on her face. Going back inside she sat in a chair across from Harlow who was laying on the couch. Flipping through the contacts on her personal device she hit Ashira's contact info and sent the picture two her. The picture was nice, the two of them sitting on the same lounger, Michael wet and shirtless made it almost racy if Ashira hadn't been in her regular clothes. Tiny furry animal made them both have genuine smiles on their faces. No matter how things turned out she'd at least have a fond memory to hold on to.
AngelDellaNotte
02-24-2021, 07:42 PM
Looking down at the sleeping creature in her lap Ashira smiled as she gently rubbed it's ear. The Oleran cooed in it's sleep seeming to enjoy it. “She is very cute.” Ashira said, seeing a puzzled look on Michael's face. “I noticed when she stole from Harlow. Pets were never really my thing. Caspar had a few dogs but I never really attached to anything. My mom's cats were a pain in the ass always breaking things. I think they enjoyed being assholes.” Ashira said, still stroking the Oleran's ears enjoying herself how soft it was. The little red creature seemed to be letting off heat, it was very noticeable with it sitting in her lap.
“That story about the Olerans, do you believe in stuff like that?” Ashira said, “I've always been a woman of science. Myths like this were always just entertaining stories. Though a part of me always wanted to believe. But somethings just aren't meant to me.” She didn't say it aloud but she wasn't speaking about stores and myths. This was the tap dance they always did. Neither of them ever said what they were really feeling. The teased and skirted around the subject. The closer they got to Arthuria the more Ashira knew what she had to do. The problem was there was a war between her heart and mind. She looked down at the Oleran not wanting to make eye contact with Michael.
Ushima
02-24-2021, 09:53 PM
Did he believe? “A part of me does. These little ones don’t like being near people and rarely ever get like this. There has to be a reason for it.” Reaching for the Oleran Michael pet its head. It was so soft. “But that story about love? There’s no way to actually prove that. I think it is something old Arturians came up with while out on the fringes. Long before the war.” Michael sighed and laid back on the lounge chair, looking up at the sky. “The stupid fucking war. I can’t wait for it to be over so our people can heal.”
“Hey guys!” Lillian’s voice called out to the two of them. “Harlow and I are going shopping. She didn’t have time to pack a bag before we spirited her away. We’ll grab some food too.”
Michael raised his arm and waved them off. And now he was alone with Ashira and a sleeping Oleran. He had something he wanted to say. Wanted to say. She did too, he could tell. But it was hard. Men in general had a hard time talking about their feelings and what was on their mind. How does one tell the princess of another nation, who was marrying someone else, marrying your friend’s younger brother, you were falling in love with her? They didn’t have a manual for this. His dad failed to mention that in one of his talks when he was growing up. Mother didn’t have some story to warn him about falling in love with women he shouldn’t.
Sitting up with a small groan, he had been comfortable laying down, he turned to face Ashira. “Hey. We need to talk.” Even hearing himself say those words made his stomach drop. Reaching down he pulled the Oleran from her lap, placing it behind him. The little one whined a bit but once it was set back down it quieted down, his backed up against him to share his warmth. Michael, tentatively, took Ashira’s hand. “This is some mess we found ourselves in.” A small, sad smile spread across his face. Only now does he realize how ridiculous this seemed, talking while still in his shorts. But it was either now when they had the chance to be alone. “One day I’m living life as normal and next thing I’m meeting this incredible woman. Beautiful. Strong. Smart. And it’s the one girl I shouldn’t be falling in love with but I can’t help it. You’re amazing and even though at the end of this hellish ride we have to part ways I can’t stop my thoughts turning to you. But I hate this cold air between us.” His thumb brushed across her hand gently. He could feel the corners of his eyes start to water, welling up with emotion. “We need to get past this. We need to be ok again. I Can’t have us like this.”
AngelDellaNotte
03-11-2021, 07:58 PM
Love, someone finally said the word aloud. But what did that mean? She knew the definition of the word but what did it mean for them? They both had been skirting around it the entire trip. Ashira didn't know what she felt. No that was a lie. She knew what she felt. The hard part was settling it with what she should feel. She wanted things to go back to what it was like in the beginning when they were just having fun. Ashira stood up and paced a couple feet from Michael then turned to face him. “We.... I can't. Michael....” Ashira said pausing and not knowing what to say let alone what she felt. “Damn it Michael I don't know. I don't know anything. What I feel, what I should do. What we can do to make this right.” Ashira nearly shouted. It startled the Oleran awake, the little creature jumped up and bounded over to a chair on the other side of the pool resuming it's nap.
“I'm always the one with the plan. The one who know just what to do. Damnit that's my job.” Ashira said, breaking down and crying.
Ushima
03-12-2021, 12:22 AM
"Feelings don't care about plans Ashira." Michael replied. He doubted any of them planned for this to happen. The princess from another nation was not meant to fall in love with someone like him. And she was so far out of his grasp many would call him insane for even thinking about catching feelings. "They crash in and sweep everyone away." Glancing at the Oleran across the pool he could tell it eyeing them. One curious large black eye was flicking between him and Ashira. Almost as if it had a vested interest in the two of them. In whatever...this was. Standing up he moved over to Ashira. He couldn't stand to see her like this. Tears were not something he liked on her face, any woman's face. "Hey come on. It'll be ok." Tentatively, he reached out and took hold of her face. Gently using his thumbs he wiped her tears away. "No tears princess. We both know how this ends don't we?" They wouldn't subject millions. Ashira was too noble, too good. One of the reasons he loved her. Loyalty and sense of duty, doing what was right. A cold breeze passed by them causing goosebumps to form on his back but he did not move. Michael continued to rub Ashira's cheek soothingly with his right thumb. All the world around them disappeared. He didn't even realize how close his face was to hers but he wasn't going to pull away until she smiled again. "Its ok. It will all be ok."
AngelDellaNotte
03-12-2021, 04:45 AM
She briefly stiffened when she felt his arms around her then relaxed feeling him wipe away her tears. She rested her head on his shoulder. That was when the dam just broke and she found herself sobbing into his chest. Her fingers clutched at the towel he had draped over his shoulders. She stood there for several minutes just letting everything out. Ashira wasn't one to often show her emotions. Something Caspar always told her wasn't good. After her failed engagement when she finally pulled out of the depression he had taken her to something called a rage room. It basically was a room with a lot of junk in it. He then gave her a sledge hammer and told her to let her frustration out. By the end of the day Ashira was feeling much better and ready to put Edmund behind her. When she felt she had no more tears left she pulled back looking up at Michael knowing her face had to be red and puffy but he didn't care. True to Caspar's words she felt better.
Not thinking about anything, just letting her body move on her own she brushed her hands across his chest then leaned up into him kissing him.
Ushima
03-12-2021, 10:09 AM
His body stiffened when Ashira kissed him. But only for a moment. Heat rushed through him as the sensation of Ashira's lips overtook him. This shouldn't happen. This couldn't happen. But it was. Even if it was for a moment. Here in this place he could let himself have this moment. Isolated away from the problems of the world for a little bit. Away from the eyes of their two companions for several hours. Self-indulgent? Sure. Self-destructive in the future? More than likely. Michael wasn't thinking anything along those lines at this moment. All that concerned him was the beautiful girl in his arms kissing him. Breaking the kiss for air Michael pulled back to look at her. Face flushed and eyes half closed. The most beautiful thing he's ever seen. So he said it. "You're beautiful." Leaning back in he kissed her again.
Michael gently moved Ashira towards the building. He doubted either of them wanted Lillian and Harlow to walk in on them like this. Inside at least they'd have some privacy. So gently lifting Ashira up, never breaking the kiss, he walked inside. It was a little difficult but he managed it. The Oleran slipped into the unit and found a nice vent to curl up by and be warm. Inside the master bedroom Michael set Ashira down. Reaching over to the glass wall he brought up the control panel. Orange icons appeared. Touching the glass Michael pressed an orange rectangle and slid it down. The glass around them darkened providing some privacy, so no one from outside could look in. Now safe inside Michael took Ashira in his arms again, wrapping her in a loving hug and rubbing her back, burying his face in her neck and giving it some gentle pecks.
AngelDellaNotte
03-15-2021, 02:54 AM
Ashira just stopped thinking, she knew what she was doing was wrong but didn't care. She just turned her mind off letting her body make the choices. She would deal with the consequences of this later. When Michael picked her up she wrapped her arms around his shoulders and her legs around his waist, kissing at his neck as he moved them inside. A whimper escaped her lips when he set her down and a pout came to her face. It was short lived as he returned after darkening the windows. Placing her arms around his neck again she brushed her fingers through his wet hair. Then took several steps back pulling him with her. She kept going until her legs hit the edge of the bed and fell back into it. Her clothes were still wet but right now she didn't care.
Ushima
03-15-2021, 04:40 AM
Never before had he felt such passion erupt. As the two mashed together in the darkened room Michael would swear he felt electricity as the two touched each other. Hot searing kisses. Strong but tender touches. Ashira's clothes, and Michael's shorts, wear quickly discarded. Sweet whispers were spoken between breathy moans and sharp cries of pleasure. This would hurt them. They both knew it. How much so would yet to be seen. Michael wondered if she was of a similar mind. Better to love and lost than not at all. To take your victories where you can. Win the battle but ultimately loose the war. The way Ashira said his name would forever haunt his dreams, both day and night. He would never forget the look on her face, the passion in her eyes as they held hands, fingers interlocked like proper lovers, as the moved against each other in bliss.
~
Michael awoke, eyes blinking open slowly. The room was dark and there was a comfortable weight on his chest. Ashira's dark hair blocked his view. He knew he had to leave as much as it pained him. If Lillian, or worse Harlow, discovered them in bed there'd be hell to pay. A lecture and nonstop teasing was not what either of them would want. This tryst was a once and a lifetime event. A pang of sadness stabbed at his heart. Delicately he extracted himself from Ashira's grip after placing a kiss to her temple. Standing beside the bed he took one last look at her. Beautiful skin, stunning face, ample bosom, he was chest man sue him, and dark raven hair. Several marks lined her neck and shoulder, luckily where a shirt could easily cover. Seemed they were somewhat smart in their throes of passion. He had battle scars of his own he'd silently wear with pride. With a sad, satisfied sigh he pulled the blanket over her, watching her take his previously occupied pillow and pull it closer and inhaling the remnants of his scent.
Pressing a hand to the wall by the bed he brought up the clock. It read 1700. Lillian and Harlow had left sometime around 1300. "Fuck. Almost four hours." With a bit of pride in his step Michael searched for his shorts. Finding it hiding under Ashira's panties. He grabbed his shorts, damp underwear falling to the side, he put them on and poked his head out of the door. He was sure they weren't back, as there would have been hell to pay. But he would not put it past them to lie in wait, ambush him when his guard was down due to post orgasmic bliss. The Oleran watched him from the couch, the red creature laid out lazily enjoying the comfort of indoors for the first time. Michael did a double take, something seemed off about the creature but he couldn't place it. Shrugging and choking it up to the fact that this was a rare up close encounter Michael went down to the lower level. Grabbing a towel he walked into the bathroom (https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/wmLiEc1fxsKga2Hx-w6qwuPxBKvUlUsz2rEmNuwWwTrcieh1t8ITDss2iLCpCvTg_dv NAfwov1_JGUeqW_pvm-Gi37JLKJDRBMtgezJ5qjNGKZpz7cmbcHJ4RZeQuAC_lmdrJ7ve 9gPP70iercohoXY). Once able to properly see himself in the mirror he let out a whistle. Along with his tussled hair and love bites on his shoulders Michael could see scratched along his back and waist. He could only imagine what else Ashira had on her, his right palm was a little darker and stung a bit.
Washing himself quickly Michael returned to his room. The towel was tossed to the side and he dressed, a pair of gray pants and a red shirt. Grabbing his com-device and gun, tucking both into their respective places in his pants, he returned to the upper level after slipping on his boots. His stomach rumbled, having missed lunch for more enjoyable moments. Rummaging through the kitchen unit Michael made himself a snack and a drink, turning on the radio to play a song (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5U7b_E14cE). He was watching the visualizer cycle through colors and scratching the Oleran when Lillian and Harlow returned. "We're back!"
"Shhh!" Michael pressed his fingers to his lips.
"She napping again?" Harlow asked.
"She went for a swim and got tired." Michael lied.
"You've been bored?" Lillian asked, coming to stand Michael who was sitting with his feet up on the couch watching the visualizer hovering over the center table. His hand rubbed the Oleran's stomach earning him happy noises from the creature.
"Nah this little one kept me company." Michael patted it's head and stood. "But I do want to get outside for a bit. Maybe head to the tourist district and find something to do."
"Well after everything you've been through you deserved some time to yourself." He bit his tongue, not wanting to say that what he really wanted was more time with Ashira behind a locked door. "We'll watch her a call you later to meet up."
"They had a few clubs and bars I want to check out." Harlow said, her head inside a bag and looking over her purchases. "Arturian clothing. The guys aren't gonna believe this."
"Hey the royal family doesn't pay for just any Yoran you know." Rubbing the back of his head Michael moved to the door. "Ok call me when you guys leave and I'll tell you where I'm at."
"Ok. Have fun!" Lillian gave a small wave. She felt bad for him, truly. It wasn't easy being in his position. He and the princess were so obvious even Harlow mentioned it on their outing a few times. Suggesting they ditch the two on a moon and come collect them in five years, taking a bet on how many kids they'd have when they'd return. With a sad sigh she turned to the Oleran, who was looking up at her with wide curious eyes. "Hey. Is it just me or is this guy bigger?" Harlow just shrugged before going back to admire a new pair of boots.
Michael walked along the path towards the rail system that would take him to his destination. The resort had several tourist hangouts. The one at the bottom of the mountain they were on had a nice strip of clubs and bars, restaurants, gyms and shops. Anything the rich elite could want. Getting off the rail Michael searched for his destination. He wanted something hard and heavy. To match the storm in his mind. And he found it easy. On the corner of the main strip, wedged between two clubs was a dingy dive. Loud music (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULqe6K2ihys) was pumping out of the place. There was a bar off to the right side, down a tier people were thrashing about in the center of the room as a band played on stage. The lead on stage was woman in red garb and witches hat. Michael knew her as Setsuna (https://i.postimg.cc/gj9nRQQm/EE8-B53-D9-E9-A6-49-AB-B25-E-66-B9521772-C9.jpg). She was the main attraction but others jumped around her with instruments. The beat was amazing and Michael soon found himself pushing into the crowd.
AngelDellaNotte
03-15-2021, 07:57 PM
She awoke a couple hours later feeling a light draft blow over her. Ashira was wearing nothing but a thin sheet. It took a moment for her to realize the she was laying on a pillow and not Michael. She distinctively remembered falling asleep on him. Waking up alone was not what she expected. Though she didn't really know what she should have expected. While it had been amazing all it really did was complicate things. She slid from the bed taking the sheet with her as she stood from the bed. She looked for her clothes forgetting they were wet. Looking at the clock on the nightstand only a few hours had gone by. She spotted her shirt laying on the floor next to the bed and walked to it about to pick it up until something pulled it under the bed. “What the hell?” Ashira said, knelling down to look under the bed. Did they have another Oleran in the house? There was nothing under the bed, not even her shirt. “Okay, that was weird.” She said aloud, then looked around seeing her pants a few feet from her. She walked to them and picked them up but found herself in a tug war battle with a little robot (https://i.pinimg.com/564x/2d/e7/c6/2de7c67d5a3deea19b30aafb66f8e470.jpg). It startled her causing her to let go of the pants and fall back to the bed. The robot didn't acknowledge her and dragged the pants over to a hamper dropping them inside. There was something written on the side and Ashira read it aloud, “Cleo.”
“How may I be of assistance, Miss?” The robot said, rolling over and stopping before her.
“What are you doing?” Ashira asked, looking down at the small robot.
“Cleaning, is my primary function.” Cleo said, “Would you prefer if I came back at another time?”
“No, go ahead.” Ashira said, looking down at the robot. They didn't have these at home. Well at least not in the palace. They had a whole army of staff in the palace, which was one of the largest employers in the capital. She watched as the robot turned around and resume cleaning. “Oh, where is the shower.”
“Up the stairs.” Cleo said, point to a stair (https://i.postimg.cc/xC4d1n09/5-D6-D9633-28-A9-426-B-B199-9-E454526-C633.jpg) next to the bed.
“Thanks.” Ashira said, feeling weird to be talking to a robot but it didn't hurt to be nice. She stood from the bed and walked to the stairs going up them to shower. It was nice and refreshing. When she finished she wrapped herself in a bathrobe hanging next to the shower. Before getting in the shower she had just dropped the sheet on the ground but now it was gone. “How the hell did it get up here?” She asked, recalling seeing it had tracks and didn't know how it made it up the stairs. Shrugging it off she went back downstairs and noticed the bed was made. She went to where she left her bag earlier not seeing it. “Huh?” She asked then by chance looked in the dresser seeing someone had unpacked her clothes. She doubted it was Harlow or Lillian. It must have been Cleo. She didn't know if it was impressive or creepy. Either way she dressed and then went out to the living room seeing Lillian sitting there with a book and Harlow playing some sort of video game. “Where is Michael?” She asked, not seeing him. She wanted to talk about what happened.
Ushima
03-15-2021, 11:46 PM
This place was exactly his kind of place. Dark, cramped, loud music, good booze. He would definitely bring Ashira to a place sometime. And he made himself sad again. There was no future where they could go out to places like this, enjoy heavy metal and booze. Or go anywhere. He couldn’t take her to the beach or tour museums on Arturia. No dinner with his mom and dad. That thought really made him sad. His parents would really like Ashira. “Drink sir?”
Turning towards the bartender Michael ordered a beer. “I’ll have what’s on tap.” Nodding the bartender filled his glass. Taking the glass of dark yellow liquid Michael took a sip, turning back to the stage and leaning back comfortably against the bar. Red light illuminated his back as he watched the band perform. Now there was another girl (https://cdnb.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/027/818/749/large/taka-baruna-may-thumbs-up-finished.jpg?1592644614). She had on biker shorts and orange hoodie with matching big orange hat with a skull on it. Long brown hair went everywhere as she sang and danced. That was Hikari, Setsuna’s younger sister. She was an actress and performed on stage sometimes. Holograms swirled over the stage, two dragons twisting and dancing before flying out over the crowd.
Michael downed his beer quickly and turned back to order another when he was interrupted. “Another round for my depressed friend here.” A large man (https://i.pinimg.com/originals/89/fb/d9/89fbd9f1c9639ce44fa5d329d31362ae.jpg) was standing beside him. He wore a very slick suit (https://i.pinimg.com/originals/28/ad/d0/28add0e73b24c4acf6c6e25bfc725a6d.jpg).
“You psychic or something’?” Michael took the glass and sipped.
“I can tell when a man isn’t himself.” A smile was offered. “Name’s Booker.” Booker offered his hand.
“Michael.” The handshake was solid, the man clearly was strong.
“So your reply indicated I was right.” Booker lifted a small black metal tube to his mouth. The end glowed green for a second before smoke billowed out of his mouth. “Wanna spill your guts to a fellow bar patron.”
“You wouldn’t believe me if I told you.” Michael sighed. Taking another sip Michael felt his coms go off. Taking it out of his pocket he brought it to his ear. “Hello?”
It was Lillian. “Ashira’s up. What’s your location?” Lillian could hear loud heavy metal music blaring in the background.
“It’s a place called Nightborn. Off the main strip.” Michael replied.
“What? Michael I can’t hear you.” He could barely hear her either. In fact the band seemed to play louder.
“Fuck it I’ll just message you.” Michael hung up and opened his messenger. ’It’s a place called Nightborn off the main strip. I’m at the bar off to the right.’ He sent the message away and pocketed his device. Pinching the bridge of his nose he sighed before taking another deep drink.
Booker raised an eyebrow. “Part of your problem?”
The Arturian pilot turned his back to Booker in annoyance. “Look man I appreciate your concern but I got enough going on to deal with a nosy bar-goer alright? Thanks for the drink.” What Michael didn’t realize was in his huff he accidentally flashed his gun. Michael felt his shirt had ridden up so he tugged it back down.
“Sorry man. Hope it works out.” Booker clasped him on the back before walking away. Back behind the VIP area.
AngelDellaNotte
03-19-2021, 05:01 AM
After Lillian reached out to Michael to find out where to meet him the three women then had to figure out how to get there. They didn't have a car nor did they know how to get to this club Michael was at. Help came from Cleo the cleaning droid who rolled into the room just as they were discussing it. The droid came up behind Harlow and caught the pilot off. When Cleo spoke she jumped from the seat she was in letting out a squeal that didn't fit with the soldier she was. Lillian jumped a little but no where near as bad as Harlow. Apparently neither of them had seen the cleaning droid. Ashira on the other hand was laughing so hard she nearly fell from her seat. The droid didn't respond to the incident but merely repeated it's offer of assistance. None of them had heard what it actually said. “Would you like me to call you a car? It is included in your resort fees.” Cleo said.
“I so need to get me one of these things. It does everything.” Ashira said, “Cleo do you give massages? Just kidding unless you do but maybe later. Yes, we would like a car.”
“A car will arrive in approximately five minutes.” Cleo said, meaning to roll from the room to resume whatever task it had been doing.
Harlow had recovered by now and was walking around the droid poking at it. “What the hell is it?” She said.
“I think it is a cleaning droid that also doubles as a personal assistant.” Ashira said, watching as Harlow continued to inspect the droid.
“Personal assistant. I'll buy you one myself so I can go back to just being your bodyguard.” Lillian said, poking fun at Ashira.
“Oh but I love having you around as a second mom.” Ashira said, standing up and wrapping her arms around Lillian from behind hugging the older woman.
“I'm not old enough to be your mother.” Lillian said, trying to shrug Ashira off but eventually gave up and returned the hug. She really was fond of the princess and although she didn't see her as a daughter but more as a little sister.
Ashira didn't get a chance to respond as the droid which was trying to run from Harlow who was still checking out the droid. “Your car is here.” Cleo said, in as much of a panicked robot could. That was finally what it took to get Harlow to leave it alone. The pilot jumped to her feet and was at the door before the other two women could react.
“Is she always like this?” Lillian asked though she had a feeling the pilot liked to have a good time.
-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+
It didn't take long for them to get to the club the car being a self driving car, along with most of the cars on the road. It really helped reduce traffic. They easily made it passed the bouncer at the door. Even without the recognition of being a princess she still had that appearance of someone important. Once inside Ashira was caught off guard, she had been to clubs before but had to admit she had never been in a club like this. To be honest she had never heard music like this. Not that she was the type to only listen to classical fancy music but it was so loud and she swore someone was screaming. At first she thought someone may have been in trouble until she realized it was coming from one of the singers. Neither Lillian or Harlow seemed phased by the music. They wound their way to the bar where Ashira had to shout at the bartender to get her drink. “I'll have a vodka soda.” The bartender a heavily tattooed and pierced woman took a moment then slid a drink around the bar. Ashira turned around looking at the crowd trying to find Michael. She hadn't realized she had gotten separated from Lillian and Harlow until a tall man in a fancy suit came up beside her. “You look like you rather be somewhere else.” He said, smoothly taking Ashira's hand and pressing a light kiss to it. “The names Booker.”
“Ashira, and no I'm just looking for my...” She trailed off not knowing what to call Michael then settling on a good enough word, “friend.”
Ushima
03-19-2021, 06:05 AM
Figuring he had some time before they arrived Michael joined the crowd. He wanted to feel the energy and experience the beat first hand. Setsuna's voice washed over him as he merged with the large group. Soon his fist was in the air and he was singing along. People started moving more to the beat and getting rougher. In the center of the audience a pit seemed to form as the crowd got even more intense during a particularly violent sounding part of the song. Michael longed to join them, wanting to throw himself into the fray. But he had a gun, for when Ashira arrived to keep her safe. As was his job. He just hoped he didn't act all awkward around the girls. It would be an obvious sign something had happened. Which one would crack under scrutiny, him or Ashira, he had no idea.
After shrugging off the arm of a fellow patron, people got comfortable too quickly during these things, not that he really minded, Michael sought out the bathroom. It was dark, like the rest of the club. Lights were under the sinks and they were changing colors. Relieving himself of the cheap beer was a quick affair after a spot opened up. Washing his hands he stared at himself in a vandalized mirror. He was looking at a number to call to have a good too long, too caught up in his thoughts. It wasn't until someone practically exploded out of a stall, wiping their nose hard on their sleeve, that he finally splashed some water on his face. "Hey buddy want a hit?" A handful of green powder was shoved, almost right into his face.
"Nah man I'm good." Michael replied, sticking his hands in the drier. "But you knock yourself out. More for you." Wouldn't have been his first foray into recreational drugs. His piss would probably still ping up a positive result for at least another month. Once his hands were dry he left the bathroom. The song (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKyXvNkGQKc) playing now had a man screaming on stage and Setsuna was hanging back, taking a small break and singing backup. He went back to the bar, wondering how close the others were. It wasn't long until he found out as as he reached the bar he saw three things: Harlow with her fist in the air, Lillian trying to order a drink, and Ashira being chatted up by a familiar face. Sliding up behind Booker he put a hand on the man's shoulder, wrapping his left arm around his shoulders. It looked friendly but it wasn't. He felt Booker twitch, almost as if he was suppressing his reaction. "Hey Booker she's spoken for."
Booker turned and looked at Michael. "Well if it isn't Mr. Depressed as hell." Michael's face twisted into a frown. "Can't a guy buy a girl a drink?"
Michael's grip tightened, eyes narrowing. "Not this one."
AngelDellaNotte
03-24-2021, 08:43 PM
Michael came up and she could sense some hostility between the two wondering what happened before she got here. She perked up when Michael commented on her being spoken for, her mind didn't even think about her engagement instead it went to what happened earlier. They both knew it was a one off that wasn't going anywhere but here was Michael laying claim to her. “I speak for myself.” Ashira said, watching a smile cross Booker's face as he slid away from Michael's embrace.
He held his hand out for Ashira, “One wouldn't expect anything less from a woman such as you. Care to dance?” Ashira wasn't sure what was considered dancing here but she took his hand, then gave her drink to Michael and followed as he lead her to the dance floor. He stayed away from the pit, to which Ashira was glad for as it looked more like a brawl than dancing. They danced for a while before Booker started talking though Ashira could barely hear him and he suggested going somewhere a little more private.
She nodded and followed him to the VIP area. They went upstairs to an open balcony, Ashira was a little surprised when they stepped off the last step how the musics volume decreased. She had felt a tingle wash over her skin and looking at the edge of the balcony she could see a slight simmer kinda like light reflecting off of glass. A force field was damping the sound. She knew if she touched it she wouldn't feel that same tingle as when she passed through the invisible door. If she touched it she would feel a light shock like static electricity. It was harmless unless you tried to touch it without pulling away. Then it would turn into a shock that could be fatal if held long enough.
“So your man downstairs, a former boyfriend?” Booker asked, as he pulled a chair out for Ashira then sat down. He hit a few keys on a tablet on the table between them and a small robot rolled out of the cabinet with two drinks, the same as she had ordered at the bar.
“No, he works for me.” Ashira said, “My security.”
“Security? And what do you do that requires security?” Booker said, sipping his drink, “You aren't a zest dealer are you?” Zest was a green powdery drug often found in clubs as it gave the user a rush when they sniffed it.
“No,” Ashira said, not letting on that she had no idea what zest was. She didn't think it was a good idea to pretend to be something she didn't know what it was so she stuck with a ruse she had already done. “I'm an art curator. Usually not a very dangerous profession but I deal in top dollar pieces. And you Mr. Booker, what do you do other than hang out in bars charming young ladies?”
Ushima
03-25-2021, 03:03 AM
Michael watched Ashira walk away with Booker. His fist clenched tightly. Once the red curtain closed to the VIP area, two guards standing on either side, he unclenched and let out the breath he was holding. “Fuck.”
Harlow piped up. “That was kind of cold.” She was sipping a bright pink drink. “Is everything ok?”
He pinched the bridge of his nose, grabbing his drink. “Cosmically? Sure everything is going great.” Taking a big swig he set the empty glass down, wiping his mouth with his arm. “Ah that’s good.”
“Where’d Ashira go?” Lillian asked, joining them at their spot at the bar.
“Someone took her to the VIP are.” Michael pointed out.
“Well let’s go get her.” The aid went to move toward the area.
“She’s a big girl she can handle a little VIP treatment.” Michael went ignored as Harlow joined the other Yoran woman. Probably wanting the VIP access for herself.
~
Booker smiled. “I’m head of security. I walk the club sometimes and get a feel for the people there.” Booker tipped his drink back. “It’s a useful skill to have. Like that security guard of yours. Picked up on a massive chip on his shoulder. Almost like someone kicked his Saber Hound (https://postimg.cc/Z9hbpYkw). If he’s not your ex,” Booker have Ashira a sly glance, almost as if he didn’t believe her. “Than his real girl definitely left him. Or cheated. Or both.”
~
Lillian almost reached the doorway when she was stopped by Harlow. Michael raised as eyebrow as the Yoran ace fiddled with Lillian’s outfit. Michael’s face turned red as he watched Harlow undo three of Lillian’s top buttons. Harlow herself tugged the zipper on her vest top down dangerously low. Flashes of Ashira above him passed through his memory. Shaking his head he watched the two women approach the VIP room. It didn’t take more than three minutes before they were let through. “For fucks sake.” Michael approached the two men standing in his way. “Oi. My VIP is back there. She came through with another guy five minutes ago.”
“Get out of here man.” The guard tried to talk him down. “You gotta either be on the list or hot. And you’re neither.”
“This isn’t the night to test me asshole. Either let me get back to my detail or I’ll go through both of you idiots.” Michael was getting mad. Things were falling apart. What was supposed to be a relaxing two days planet side was becoming unbearably stressful.
One of the guards held up a finger, his other hand going to his ear. He spoke into his wrist. A minute later Michael was let through. “Boss says this way.” He was led towards a set of stairs leading up. But he never made it that far. Two hands clasped hard on his shoulders and forced him out of a side door and out into an alley. Michael thought he saw Harlow and Lillian, thought he saw horrified faces on their faces as they watched what happened. But he couldn’t be sure as his head hit the wall of the building next door.
Spinning around Michael was hit hard in his stomach. Falling to his knees he held his stomach, which put him in prime position for a knee to his face. Someone grabbed the back of his head and yanked it backward, forcing him to look up. “That’s a good look for you.” Despite feeling blood trickle down the left side of his face memories of Ashira once again danced through his mind. A tight grip in his hair as they moved against each other.
“Sucks your standards are so low.” Michael received punch to the head. Before the next one struck he moved. Grabbing the arm holding him he pulled down. The man holding him fell against the building as Michael rose up. The other man attacked but Michael was quick to block. He noticed that it wasn’t the same two guys from the VIP entrance. Two new guys were fighting him, the other two having returned to their posts. Michael got in close and wrapped his arms around the man’s neck. Pulling him down and delivering a hard knee to his chest. The man behind him was getting up so Michael spun, kicking him in the side of the head. The man he kneed was winded next to him. Michael gave a hard backhand across the face. Panting, bleeding Michael stood in the alley. His chest ached. Blood trickled down his cheek now and seeped into his left eye.
Something metal pressed against the back of his head. “Well you certainly don’t give up do you?” Booker’s voice came from behind him. Then he heard the metallic click.
Between pants Michael spoke. “That a Seraphim 302 (https://img2.cgtrader.com/items/2132598/4880f0fb10/duke-mk44-legendary-hand-cannon-3d-model-stl.jpg)?”
“Good ear.” Booker chuckled. There’s always a moment when you have a gun to you that you have to react. Too early you get yourself killed. Too late you die where you stand. The key is to recognize when that moment is. The door to the alley opened. That was his moment. Michael spun quickly, drawing his hand cannon from his back. His left hand gripped Booker’s wrist and pushed it up. He pulled back the hammer, his right arm tucked against his side out of Booker’s range. “Good skills too. That a Silver Knight Mark VII (https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/destinypedia/images/c/c0/ROI_The_First_Curse.png/revision/latest?cb=20160923032538)?” Michael nodded. “Great choice in pieces as well.”
Michael smirked, squinting with his bloody eye even more. “Family heirloom.”
AngelDellaNotte
03-26-2021, 03:22 AM
Booker and Ashira chatted for a while before they both noticed someone coming up the stairs. When the pair got to the top Ashira recognized Lillian and Harlow. She waved them over encouraging them to sit down. “Booker, this is Lillian my personal assistant and Harlow... my driver.” Ashira said, introducing them. She got an odd look from Lillian who didn't like being called her personal assistant yet again. She didn't say anything to object though. Harlow on the other hand seemed amused being called her driver but went with it.
“Yeah, her driver but not a bad gig, our Mistress has quite a fleet of cars. I swear she hasn't rode in half of them. But I get my pick of driving them.” Harlow said, having fun with this little ruse. “My favorite has to be the McLauren Sabre (https://carbuzz.com/news/mclarens-new-hardcore-hypercar-to-be-called-sabre). Now that's one hell of a car.” She was thinking of her dream car though she never actually drove in one or even sat in one. She had seen one before during a car show on Haroni. There was no way in hell she could afford one, the price tag was more than three years of her salary.
“Quite a car but have you drove the Brabham BT62 (https://carbuzz.com/news/the-first-brabham-bt62-competition-has-landed)?” Booker asked, mentioning an Arturian car.
“Can't say I have drove it before. Haven't really drove many Arturian cars. The boss just recently branched her business into Arturian space.” Harlow said, not hiding the fact they were Yoran as Ashira hadn't been using that horrible Arturian accent she had been practicing. She was glad as it was really bad and would have only drawn attention. They had been poking so much fun at Michael that she hadn't a chance to tease the princess about it.
Booker nodded and looked to be about to respond but his com-device rang. He excused himself and answered it away from the ladies. “You are having way too much fun.” Ashira said, looking at Harlow who used the tablet to order another drink. “Remind me to send your commander a letter stating you were assisting me and not AWOL or even a traitor, running off with an Arturian pilot. When we get to the capital.”
“Oh shoot I forgot my data pad with your calender.” Lillian said, like a smart ass. “I told you I am not your personal assistant.”
“I could have introduced you as my mom.” Ashira poked.
“Not your mother either.” Lillian said, “So what is it you do this time?”
“Sticking with the classic art curator. Though Booker asked if I was a zest dealer. Any chance you know what zest is?” Ashira asked.
“Gives you a wicked buzz.” Harlow said, getting a look from Lillian. “Or sure I've heard. Its a party drug. Though with my talk about cars he might still think you are a zest dealer. There is a lot of money to be made in dealing zest if your aren't afraid of getting busted.”
“Yoran, has taken a hard stance on zest dealers. If they can link a dealer to a zest related death they are charged with murder.” Lillian said, then changed the subject. “Should we take pity on Michael and ask Booker to let him up? I doubt he is able to get past the bouncers.”
“Let him suffer a bit more.” Ashira said, not knowing that Michael was currently getting jumped. A few minutes later Booker returned, he apologized and said he would return in a minute.
Ushima
03-26-2021, 07:51 AM
"Alright Nightborn! You all having a great time!?" Setsuna spoke to the crowd that was going nuts. "That's our first set for the evening. We'll be back in thirty minutes to keep rockin'!" The band walked off stage and house music (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5sKj9hs5Go4) filled the club as background noise while the band took their break. Back stage the heavy metal witch looked around, not seeing her head of security waiting like he was supposed to be. He was allowed a break when they were performing and other members of the team could keep an eye on things. But once they were off he was supposed to be the watching them. She spotted three women and knew immediately it was the flirtatious security guards work. So, casually, she approached them. "Hey. Any of you three see Booker?"
Harlow turned to the front woman. "He was here a second ago."
One of the other security guards stepped forward. "He went out back ma'am."
"I'll go get him!" A smaller voice came from behind the witch and a smaller girl popped out. "I want to go dance a bit and I'll have him keep watch." Not knowing what was going on out back Setsuna waved her sister on, granting her permission to do what she wanted.
Hikari went down to the first floor of the VIP area. "He's probably smoking." The teen said to herself as she opened the door. What she saw was not Booker enjoying a quick smoke. "Booker?" The older man's right hand went up, his gun in his grasp. Someone else had their own weapon drawn.
"Seems you caught me at a bad time dear." Booker said, not taking his eyes off Michael. "You want to do this in front of her?"
Michael tilted his head to the side, looking past Booker to see Hikari watching them with wide eyes. "Next time don't be a dick." With a soft click Michael lowered the hammer back down safely.
"Just enjoying giving you a hard time. My old C.O. would haze the hell out of us." Booker put his own gun away inside his jacket.
"Who were you attached too?" Michael asked as he tucked his revolver away.
"Booker Card. Sixth fleet. Twelfth battalion." Booker's grin widened when he saw Michael's look of realization. "Yeah that's right. Twelfth battalion. Special forces. King's Fists." King's Fists was the nickname given to Fleet Six's twelfth detachment. A group of spec ops bringing death with them behind enemy lines. "You're lucky I'm not in my prime anymore." Michael didn't take the bait, Booker was trying to goad him into arguing about his skills. But Michael already knew how good his hand to hand was. He got the upper hand earlier, the two men on the ground not expecting his resilience. "What about you? You don't seem to be the frontline type. What'd you do? Did the required two months combat unit then tested out? What's your name?"
Michael nodded. "Michael Coran. I did my first two months with the Fourth. Eighth Infantry." Eighth Infantry was known as the Living Dead Corps. They had a high casualty rate as they were one of the main fighting forces in the fight. It was a brutal first two months for an eighteen year old Michael Coran. "Then I went to the flight academy and was reassigned to the Seventh Fleet, Sixth Fighter Squadron."
"The Seven Sixes?" Booker let out a laugh. "You were one of them?"
"Don't say it." Michael warned. He would not have his unit name laughed at.
Booker was going to humor Michael but Hikari choose that moment to speak up, providing the older gentlemen the opportunity. "Don't say what?"
"A lot of units have nicknames they've earned. For one reason or another. You'll learn that when you head off for basic after the tour." Booker pointed at Michael. "And this guy here belongs to the Village Idiots." Hikari laughed at that. They might have been called the Village Idiots, but they were a courageous bunch. Always trying new things and putting their life on the line. He flew through storms on Verdin that'd tear ships apart. Not exactly the sanest of strategies.
"I might be an idiot but I'm one with a high body count." Michael pounded his chest proudly. The men on the ground were beginning to get up. "I can fly circles around anyone."
"How's about instead you just hover around your charge." Booker helped the men up and sent them back inside. "Let's go seven sixer. Hikari, don't mention this to your sister. We were having a gentleman's disagreement." Hikari did a small salute to the older man. Bristling Michael followed Booker in, Hikari right behind him. His head was still bleeding and a bruise was forming on his left cheek. After a quick walk back to the VIP area Booker ordered a cloth for Michael. An aid brought him a white towel which he used to wipe the side of his head. His head was down, not wanting to look toward Ashira, Lillian and Harlow in his injured state. "Setsuna. Sorry for my absence I was handling an issue out back."
Setsuna raised an eyebrow. "And I take it he's the issue?" She pointed Michael who was dabbing his left eye, which was still kept shut due to the blood he was trying to get out.
"Oh no he was helping me. Everything is fine." Booker replied, waving off the concern.
"Right." The red witch clicked her tongue. "Well Hikari wants to go dance. Either go with her or pick someone."
Booker thumbed back at Michael. "Maybe Michael here could go? He can handle himself well. I can vouch for that."
Michael paused his work, now paying attention after hearing his name. "Please sister?" Hikari pleaded. "He's really good."
Setsuna shrugged. "If you vouch for him Booker. I trust you." Hikari cheered, grabbing Michael's arm and dragged him off. Setsuna walked off on her own to relax before the next set.
Booker retook his seat. With a wave of his hand two more guards followed, one after Setsuna and another after Michael and Hikari. "Hope you don't mind if I borrow your security guard. Since he isn't your boyfriend I figured I'd keep him busy with either Hikari or Setsuna. Man needs to lighten up and get that chip the size of a meteor off his shoulder."
AngelDellaNotte
04-16-2021, 05:15 AM
When Michael walked into the balcony bleeding Ashira arched her eyebrow but didn't say anything. It was obvious Booker and him had gotten into it with each other. She knew she should say something about it but to be honest she was still mad at him. Though she wasn't sure if it was because of what they did and her waking up alone or if it was how he had acted around Booker. It probably was a combination of all of them. The other two women followed her lead, neither Harlow or Lilian said anything. A few moments later only the Yoran women and Booker remained. Ashira didn't look at Booker as he comment about her and Michael instead she stood and walked over to where Setsuna was sitting alone. “Seriously what is up with the two of them?” Booker asked.
“It's complicated.” Lillian said, finishing her drink in one take then ordering another.
Booker gestured his hand for more information but Lillian was already starting on her new drink. “Ashira is engaged to someone who is not Michael and anyone with eyes can see they have the hots for each other.” Harlow said, getting a glare from Lillian.
“Why doesn't she just break it off then?” Booker asked, not noticing the daggers Lillian was staring at Harlow.
“She can't, it's an arranged marriage.” Harlow said, “Her family is very traditional.”
“Like I said, it's complicated and a sore subject.” Lillian said, looking to Harlow trying to convey to her not to elaborate anymore. They needed to keep a low profile. “So tell me Mr. Booker you must see some interesting things in your line of work. I imagine you have quite a few good stories. Entertain us.”
-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-
“Mind if I join you?” Ashira said, coming up next to Setsuna and waving to the sofa next to her. The singer nodded and Ashira sat down. She looked at the other women as there was a silence between them but it wasn't really awkward. Ashira was sure Setsuna was used to people fawning over her so Ashira let her be with her thoughts. To be honest it was nice to just have the quiet. She had thought a night of dancing and drinks would be good to get away from everything going on but it hadn't. The two women just sat there for a while as across the room Harlow and Lillian were laughing so hard Harlow looked about to fall out of her chair.
Ashira was startled when Setsuna offered to order a a drink when the singer noticed Ashira didn't have one. That was when she noticed Setsuna was drinking some sort of juice. “Sure, I'll have whatever you are having.”
“Pineapple mangosteen juice.” Setsuna said, as an actual waiter walked over carrying a couple drinks. “I never drink alcohol when performing. I've seen way to many performs get wasted before a show and just suck. I refuse to let that be me.”
“Makes sense.” Ashira said, taking a drink of the juice. It was sweet and a little sour, actually quite good.
“I have to confess I thought when you came over you were going to fangirl over me. Though now I have a feeling you are used to being the center of attention.” Setsuna said, “I have a feeling you will understand how nice it is to just sit with someone and have no expectations.”
“Yes, I know exactly what you mean.” Ashira said, raising her glass in toast.
Setsuna clinked her glass with Ashira, “I would introduce myself but I think you already know who I am. However I don't know who I have the pleasure of speaking with.”
“Ashira.” She said, not bothering with a last name. She hoped Setsuna wouldn't press, though if she did she would just have to make one up. “I'm a art collector by trade by my celebrity has more to do with the circumstance of my birth. I'm from a aristocrat family that loves the limelight. I'm not a fan so hence why I am as far from the Yoran capital as possible. The joy of having no one know who you are is just wonderful.”
Ushima
04-16-2021, 07:46 AM
Booker scratched his chin. "Stories? Got a few war stories when I was in the King's Fists. That was awhile ago. Hmm." Tapping his finger against his chin as he thought Booker smirked. "Ok so this isn't from my time in the war. But when I was doing security for the band about a year ago. We encountered a...what he call himself? Super fan? Either way this guy tried smuggling himself into luggage to get onto our shuttle."
Harlow laughed. "Was he on something? What makes him think he could pull that off?"
"He clearly was. Anyway he forgets that baggage is screened at space ports. So we send the bags through and I'm watching the vid screens as I'm supposed to when this human shape pops up in this container. We're not gentle about it but we throw it down on the ground and pop it open. This guy pops out and you can tell he's not right in the head. All disheveled and smelling bad like he was in the case for days. He makes a break for it and runs for the band but the port security released one of their Fey Hounds (https://images-wixmp-ed30a86b8c4ca887773594c2.wixmp.com/f/a1b8ab46-1060-4190-a697-133dc44bca66/d9lk2dl-63ca0942-eadd-4e18-b278-fec5f1a1ae16.jpg?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJ IUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJ1cm46YXBwOiIsImlzcyI6InVybjph cHA6Iiwib2JqIjpbW3sicGF0aCI6IlwvZlwvYTFiOGFiNDYtMT A2MC00MTkwLWE2OTctMTMzZGM0NGJjYTY2XC9kOWxrMmRsLTYz Y2EwOTQyLWVhZGQtNGUxOC1iMjc4LWZlYzVmMWExYWUxNi5qcG cifV1dLCJhdWQiOlsidXJuOnNlcnZpY2U6ZmlsZS5kb3dubG9h ZCJdfQ.mOdpvRBDRnP04I7Ubv_VYgvQ8mQMqhrH6SO1DxZWneg ). It bites him in the leg and takes him down. Not a good start to the tour if I say so."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"I can understand that. Sometimes I wish I could slip away for a few days and be out with my husband without the press after his picture." Setsuna sighed. "Things were simpler when I was in the army. I could just sing for my squad and play my guitar. But eventually my time ran out, my five years were up and I didn't want to re-enlist. The only thing I had was music in terms of careers. I love it so much." The twenty eight year old singer looked at her younger companion. She could tell Ashira was stressed. "You know I can tell you're wound up. Everyone can tell something is off. Killing the whole vibe. Something you can't tell your two friends over there right? Or that bodyguard of yours currently babysitting my baby sister?" Setsuna raised an eyebrow at Ashira. "If you want some unbiased, non-judgmental words of wisdom I can spare some. At the least point you in the right direction. The least I can do to thank you for not getting star struck."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The music (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjQv1zElEu4) switch, the club lighting now switching to dull purples, blues and greens. An occasional red or yellow flashed here or there. Michael moved to the beat. The nineteen year old in front of him was dancing happily, overjoyed to be moving to the beat. "You don't relax easily do you?" Hikari spoke up as she twirled and swayed her hips.
"Kinda got a lot on my mind." Michael replied, eyes sweeping the dance floor. Searching for threats. "Let me ask you something. A hypothetical/ I could use some womanly advice from someone who doesn't know me." He scratched the back of his neck. "Say you're supposed to protect someone who is currently engaged to be married to someone else and you find yourself falling for them and you think they're feeling the same. With me so far?" Hikari nodded. "You're going through things together in your travels and finally it all comes to an explosive, passionate crescendo. But you know you're not supposed to have done it. She knows it. Your two traveling companions know it but they don't know it so to keep them from finding out and cause on commotion you leave her alone. And now she's mad despite you having a valid reason. What next?"
Hikari thought for a moment. She looked Michael up and down. As if it would give her an inclination to the type of man he was. "You're fucked." Michael sighed, hands going to his face and pulling them down dramatically. She laughed at his display of frustration. "Obviously you two need to sort it out. You clearly care about her, even if you can't be together. If she's smart, and you're telling the truth about no one being able to find out, then she'll understand as long as you're genuine and speaking from the heart. I'm sure you had no ill will. You don't seem the type to slink off in the early hours."
"Nah I'm more of the cuddle till dawn and make you breakfast in bed type." Michael replied. He needed to talk to Ashira. ASAP. It was evident she was mad at him for leaving. 'Is she mad I left her alone in bed?' He didn't even know why she was mad. But it needed to be fixed if they were going to get to Arturia smoothly. Ignoring each other in a small ship wasn't good. The back alley where he was jumped was empty. And quiet, when the door was shut. Once Hikari was done dancing and back in the VIP area he'd speak with her in private.
"Just be honest at the very least. It'll all become clear." The two danced for another fifteen minutes before they had to leave. Hikari happily skipped into the VIP area and disappeared to get ready for the next set.
Michael scanned for Ashira and found her sitting with Setsuna. The two were talking, he couldn't hear what they were saying, but just like her younger sister she got up to leave, placing a comforting hand on the princess' shoulder and flashing her a reassuring smile before going to prepare to perform. Mustering up his courage, unaware of Lillian, Harlow and Booker's eyes on him, he approached Ashira. "Ashira." It was like staring down a charging Cybex (https://i.pinimg.com/originals/d3/7b/c0/d37bc00a3f4b2bef07e9ad26acaee468.png), doing this. But it must be done. "I..." His fist tightened in determination. "I want to speak with you outside."
AngelDellaNotte
04-16-2021, 06:36 PM
Ashira looked at Setsuna struck silent by her offer. She really needed to get everything off her chest. Though she was tired of the lies and half truths. The release she needed wouldn't come if she kept up whatever ruse she was using today. Honestly she had told so many stories she had lost track of all of them. She let out a sigh then started, “My name is Ashira Idomi, I'm a the princess of Yoran. What neither of our countries know is peace talks have been going on for a while now. My mother and Emperor Cassian have finally come to terms of peace. To seal the treaty I've been sent to Arturia to marry Prince Casius. Only there are those on both sides that don't want the war to win. As horrible as it sounds war is profitable. My bodyguard down there with your sister is a Arturian soldier tasked with bringing me across the galaxy. What I never expected on this trip was to find the love of my life. Only problem is it is the one person I can't have. This entire trip I have been true to my mission. We've flirted around but we never crossed that line. Until this morning.” Ashira paused holding back the tears that were welling behind her eyes.
“I can't go through with it. I knew when I met Casius I may not feel anything but I had a duty to my people and with time I may. Now I know I will never feel any love for Casius. But if I don't go through with the marriage millions of people will die. And I am not just being dramatic that is a fact. Gods I just don't know what to do anymore.” Ashira said, staring at the other woman unable to believe she had just told everything to a complete stranger. But something made her feel that she could trust Setsuna.
Ushima
04-17-2021, 02:36 AM
Setsuna was raising her drink up to her face when Ashira started talking. Her eyes were wide as she listened to the girl tell her a tale of love and heartbreak. Part of her wanted to believe this was some joke. But the absurdity of the story was too much. Who'd pretend to be the princess of the enemy? "Shit you really are her." Setting the glass down Setsuna sighed. "That's quite some story there. Almost like the ones out of my mother's old romance novels. Though hers has more fucking in it apparently." She chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. Seeing as it didn't work and Ashira had silent tears streaming down her face Setsuna handed her a napkin to dab her eyes with. "So this morning, let me guess. You two found yourselves alone after days of flying with two others, who are also probably Yoran?" She got a nod. "Now alone you two screw each other's brains out. Your poor thing. From the cold glances you were giving him he must've snuck out before you woke up right?" Another nod. "He'll probably apologize for that. Don't make him squirm too much he did it so you wouldn't get flak from your friends. There's only one real excuse for a man to leave his woman in bed." Setsuna held up one finger. "And that's to make breakfast for us."
The older woman sighed. "But peace in our time? I would be lying if I said I'd like to raise my future child during galactic peace. But I'm here for objectivity. It is a difficult choice. Listen to your heart, sacrificing hundreds of thousands of lives. Your people will hate you. Your people will hate him for corrupting and stealing their princess and put a price on his head. His people will brand him a traitor for running off with the enemy. You will be scorned for life for stealing away one of the kingdom's heroes. It will be a difficult life. Always looking over your shoulders. Hiding who you truly are. Any children you have might someday have to bear the burden of your legacy. In Arturia there'd be no legal repercussions of being born to traitors. We wouldn't punish them for the actions of their parents. But socially, if you're found, it would be very hard. If it were me I don't think I could handle those pressures. I don't envy your choice. And if he truly loves you he wouldn't want you to live the harder life. My intuition tells me he's going to say the same thing. That he loves you but he wouldn't want you to put him before all your people. Noble to the very end. Self-sacrificing. They'll give him medals. Pin awards and commendations to his chest. Maybe even Knight him. And you will heal. Not fully but enough. Be the peace bringer to your land. The princess who ended the war that lasted half a century."
A member of staff came over to the two. "I'm sorry to interrupt but your next set starts in five minutes."
"Thank you." Setsuna waved them off and finished her drink. Standing she moved over to Ashira and dropped down to her knees, wrapping the girl in a comforting hug. One she probably needed. Standing back up she put a hand on Ashira's shoulder. In the distance the singer could see the pilot marching, determinedly, towards them. 'And so it begins. "Your a mess cause you're struggling between two choices. Hopefully me saying it out loud and making the consequences more clear could help. And good luck with him." She walked away leaving Ashira on her own for a few seconds before Michael approached.
"There's a spot out back where no one is." He spoke. "We can talk. If you want to that is. I know you're mad but I'd like to try fixing it. Fixing us."
AngelDellaNotte
04-17-2021, 04:11 AM
The singer's words didn't do much to help make her choice. Ashira was stuck between two bad choices. There was no right answer here. Michael's approach quickly sobered Ashira as she pulled herself together. She nodded and followed him downstairs. Seeing them leave Lillian started to stand to follow but Ashira waved her to stay. Once outside she looked at Michael thinking about his statement about fixing them. She spoke before he could. “We are broke and there is no fixing us.” Ashira said. She took several steps down the alleyway then paced back. “I love you. I'm not denying that to myself anymore. And there in lies our problem. I was born into a life of privilege which isn't free. I have a duty to my kingdom and my people. I can't shy away from that duty. Despite how much I want to get back on that shuttle with you and fly into unknown space as far away from Arturia and Yoran as we possibility can I can't. So how do we fix this?”
Ushima
04-17-2021, 04:53 AM
Michael could hear the band starting back up (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ej8or-DfrIY) as he listened to Ashira talk. They were on the same page it seemed to him. Which hurt even more as it showed just how connected they were. He wanted to be happy. She wanted to be happy. Together. But neither of them could live with themselves. The deaths of thousands on their conscience. Both of them loyal to their people at the cost of their own happiness. "Its going to be ok." A single tear ran down the right side of his face after Ashira finished talking. "We can still be friends. It'll be tough for awhile but if we act like we used to maybe we can trick ourselves. We were cool before we caught feelings right?" Reaching up he thumbed away his tears, a second on the other side decided to make itself known. "I just don't want up to be at odds. And I'm sorry I left you alone. Didn't want the other two finding us together. We'd never hear the end of it." Harlow would tease them incessantly and Lillian would surely lecture them. "But can we go back to the way things were before? Friends?" He could lie to himself. Pretend everything was ok. All he had to do was make it through the journey and the wedding. Now he was cursing being friends with the heir to the throne as he'd surely be a VIP with his family.
AngelDellaNotte
04-17-2021, 05:20 AM
“It will be okay.” She repeated, wondering if you told a lie long enough if you would start to believe it yourself? Somehow she didn't see that happening but she knew she could fake it well enough. She was good at pretending. She had perfected appearing like actually enjoyed the royal balls and galas she had been forced to attend throughout her life. Pretending, is that what her life was going to be reduced to? Pretending she loved her husband and not her brother-in-law's best friend? Pretending she was happy. Pretending everything was okay. This would be so much easier if after they arrived they would go their separate ways and never see each other again. Surely their paths would cross often at least the months out of the year that she would spend in Arturia.
Ashira started pacing again, a trait she had whenever she was thinking. It was something that always drove Lillian nuts, who on more than one occasion threatened to hand cuff her to a chair. Would all this have turned out differently if they had stuck with the original plan of being escorted by two squads of soldiers? Surely with the mixed company they wouldn't have spent so much time alone and fallen for each other. Would they even of become friends? But then she would have lived a loveless life. She had told herself in the beginning she could learn to love Casius but even now that sounded stupid. What was it the poets always said? It was better to have loved and lost then to have never loved at all? “Idiots.” She said, aloud not realizing it.
She looked at Michael seeing a hurt and confused look on his face seeing that she had spoke aloud. “The poets, though I suppose we are too.” He still had a confused look on his face. Of course he couldn't hear her inner musings. “Poets are always saying stupid things like it's better to have loved and loss then to never loved at all. I wonder if they even have a clue what love is like let alone to have lost it.” She was rambling and she knew it. Better to focus back on the topic and not her racing mind. “I wasn't mad at you. I was mad at this.” She said, waving her hand between them. “I was made at myself for feeling this way. Mad that we can't be like normal people falling in love.”
Ushima
04-17-2021, 05:59 AM
"Don't be sad that its over. Be happy that it happened." Michael sighed, rubbing his wet thumb on his pants to remove the moisture. It felt like any minute he'd start crying again. "You're right that does sound dumb." Michael wasn't much for poetry. Every time he thought of poets the image of pretentious looking dudes and stuck up women writing down whatever trivial thing passed through their minds. Dressing it up with flowery words and imagery. Hyperbolic and self aggrandizing. He shook his head. "You know they're going to make poets about you now right? The love that stopped the war, I can see it now. Just the thought makes me want to fly into an asteroid." At least he won't have any poems about him. Chauffeurs didn't get songs or stories. He'll be a forgotten figure in this story when it was all said and done. Just the delivery man. "Sometimes the universe needs some people to not be normal. We're just the unfortunate souls who were chosen. Our destiny is bigger than ourselves type of shit."
AngelDellaNotte
04-18-2021, 03:22 AM
“The thought of that sappy shit makes me sick.” Ashira said, mimicking like she was going to throw up. “Gods help me if they make a holiday out of it with hearts, love letters and little winged Cupids of me and Casius. I might just join you on that trip into a asteroid, or better yet make it a super nova.” The thought of it made Ashira start to laugh aloud. With all the heart break and frustration it felt good and before she knew it Ashira was laughing way too hard to the point she doubled over, needing to lean on Michael to keep from falling over.
Ushima
04-18-2021, 08:48 AM
“I think there’s a black hole somewhere we can use.” It started as a chuckle but soon built into full blown laughter. After days of stress and depression the contagious laughter felt good. He put a hand on his stomach. Ashira slumped against him in her laughter so he wrapped an arm around her waist to steady her. Michael could feel some stress leaving his body, laughter is the best medicine. This was nice, the two of them laughing like this. If they could keep this up, just being content with one another, not sniping each other with hurt looks and subtle comments, then maybe they could heal. It’ll have to work. They have lives to save. His laughter trailed off and he caught his breath. After a deep inhale of fresh air he sighed. “I needed that.” The music from the club, a heavy dull thumping a sharp contrast to the plain alleyway they were in, continued to add background noise. “We’ll be ok.” They had to be. “Someday. But we will.”
AngelDellaNotte
04-19-2021, 03:00 AM
It seemed a bit of laughter was what they both needed. Once Ashira was able to catch her breath she stood up and smoothed her clothes down. “We should head back inside.” Ashira said, reaching for the door handle finding it was locked. Next to the door was a key pad, “Did Booker give you the code?” Ashira asked, looking over to Michael seeing a blank look on his face. “I'll take that as a no.” As if the universe was having a little fun at their expense there was a clap of thunder and water started pouring from the sky. Ashira grabbed Michael's hand and started running around to the front of the club. The line outside was smaller but there were still a few people standing around under the awning.
She wasn't used to standing in line so it didn't even cross her mind to get in the line as Ashira ran up to the front. She was stopped at the door by the bouncer noticing it wasn't the same guy that was there the first time she came in. “Club's at capacity.” The bouncer said, holding his hand up.
“But we were just in there.” Ashira said, not sure why she couldn't go back in. This was the first time she had been turned away from a club. Every bar and club in Yoran would love to have a Princess grace them with her presence.
“Sure you were.” The bouncer said, point to the back of the line. “You can wait with everyone else.
“We were.” Ashira said, almost sounding like she was whining. She had to be quite a sight standing there soaking wet. “My friends are in there.”
“Alot of peoples friends are in there. Now move before I make you.” The bouncer said, crossing his arms and not budging.
Ushima
04-19-2021, 03:53 AM
"A storm?" Michael held out his hand, watching droplets bounce off his palm and splatter onto the ground. Next thing he knew he was being dragged out of the alley and led back to the front of Nightborn. The music was really pounding now and he desperately wanted to get back in and enjoy the song. Ashira was arguing with the bouncer. The club was at capacity. Which he and Ashira both knew wasn't true since they just left. So Michael spoke up. "Try calling Booker. He's the head of security for the band and he's our friend. Tell him its Ashira and Michael. He saw us dip outside for a smoke." That was a lie but Michael was hoping Booker would want to keep messing with him and vouch for the two.
The bouncer looked them up and down. "Smoke, sure. Alright lets see if you're telling the truth." The bouncer put his hand up to his ear, raising his other hand and speaking into his wrist. Another clap of thunder rang out making him unable to hear the man speak. It only took a few seconds but he came back. "Booker said he hasn't heard of either of you. Now beat it."
Before Ashira could do anything Michael, hand still held in hers, dragged her off. Arguing with the bouncer never ended well. He's been kicked out of and denied entry from plenty of bars back home. "Come on." He dragged her down the street while fumbling with his other hand to get his coms device out. "I'll let Lillian know what's up so she doesn't have an aneurysm." 'Got locked out and bouncer won't let us back in. We're finding something else to do.' A building with flashing red and orange lights caught his eye. "Cyberlife?" It sounded interesting. "Come on." Leading her forward the two slipped through sliding glass doors. The atmosphere was a dull blue with lots of machines in neat rows. There were different kinds making all sorts of noises and flashing different colors. On the right side, slightly higher, was a bar and several tables. People were mingling at the bar or at the machines, even a few kids were running around.
"Hello there!" There was an desk in front of them, behind which a wall ran up up to the ceiling. Cyberlife spelled out and changing colors and patterns. "Welcome to Cyberlife Arcade!" Low electronic music (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XoLouT7TqZY) was playing in the background, setting an uplifting and happy tone. "Just two?"
The two moved over to the desk to talk. "Yes." It was a dry place they could chill for a moment. "Maybe more later but right now just us." Michael was withdrawing his card. After a brief exchange the staff member handed Michael two prepaid cards. "Thanks."
"Have fun!" She smiled and waved them on.
Going back around the desk, still hand in hand, Michael eyed the games. "So...ever been to an Arcade?"
AngelDellaNotte
04-19-2021, 04:25 AM
Ashira wasn't sure what was going on and didn't have time to process it as Michael dragged her away from Nightborn. Why would Booker say he didn't know them? She was about to say the bouncer didn't even call him but didn't get the chance. They were running through the rain again until Michael pulled her into a flashing room. The blinking lights combined with the cacophony of sound made her dizzy at first but after a few moments it faded into a white noise that she didn't really hear. Michael pressed a card into her hand that reminded her of a credit card but it had the Cyberlife logo on it. “An arcade?” Her mind when to a sort of arched plaza between shops in some of the classic districts in the capital. Nothing like this grand room filled with what looked to be video games. “Nothing quite like this.” She said, looking around the room. There were so many flashing lights in the room it was hard to focus in on any of them.
Ashira found herself wandering around the room until she spotted a bright orange machine. She was drawn to it not really know why. There was a brown and white bird with a green head on the side and a pair of orange colored guns holstered on the table top of it. She stopped at the machine and hit a couple buttons seeing a message on the screen saying, 'Insert credits'. She looked down at the base of the machine seeing a card reader and stuck her card in. The machine came to life and she picked up the gun seeing a dog sniff across the screen then jump into the bushes causing few birds to fly up. She pointed the gun at screen and fired but the ducks flew off and the popped up laughing at her.
Ushima
04-19-2021, 04:49 AM
Michael followed behind Ashira, seeing her amazed expression. He watched her approach a machine as he updated Lillian on where they were at. The game she chose was a classic, one he's played before. Michael was a much better shot here than in real life, but that just meant he was average at this game. He's only cracked position 9 on the leader boards. But that has only happened a few times. "Its not exactly like a real gun. No loud bang. No recoil. Some games have simulated recoil. Like that one (https://pacmancave.com/Ecommerce/site/images/PHOTO1//Time%20Crisis%204.jpg)." He pointed to a machine further down. "But this is a good starter game. Real simple shoot the birds." Michael stepped up to the gun next to her, taking the player two position. Inserting his card Michael drew his gun and fired at the birds. He managed to blast six of them before he reached the total allowable amount of misses. "Six. Not bad. Might be a bit rusty. Your turn. Can you beat six?" From what Michael knew the game was a little different than the original version but this one was cool and he liked it.
AngelDellaNotte
04-19-2021, 05:02 AM
His six was far better than her three misses. But he was right it was nothing like on the range. She was expecting the recoil and when it didn't come she jerked the trigger causing her shots to pull to the right. Ashira put her card into the machine again and held up the gun watching the dog move across the screen. She was ready for it this time though. When the birds flew up she was three for three. The dog pop up with a 'Round 2' sign. Again she was ready as four birds flew up on the screen and four more fell down to the dog. This went on for another eight rounds and each time Ashira hit a perfect score. Another two rounds and the ducks were moving like they were on zest. She missed a couple of times doing these last rounds. The screen faded to black then a alphabet came up on the screen instructing her to shoot her name. Ashira was glad that Yoran and Arturia shared the same alphabet and language. There were legends that they two used to be one country but hardly anyone believed that and it was mostly a child's tale. She quickly shot out her name and the dog appeared again holding another sign with names on it. Ashira noticed her name was in the number 1 spot. “Did I win?” She asked.
Ushima
04-19-2021, 05:29 AM
Michael shot his name into spot nine again. Ashira's name sat on top of the board. "Wow you got good real fast." Chuckling he put the gun away. The scores wiped themselves off screen and was replaced by a point counter. His went from 0 to 1466. Ashira's was much higher having scored better, 1999. "At the end of the game points are given for performance. We can trade them in for prized later." Only the really expensive prizes were worth anything but sometimes the cheaper ones had some gimmicky uniqueness to them. "Ok its my turn to pick one ok? We'll go back and forth." Finding a game that suited his strengths was easy. Michael found a racing game. It was a line of eight bikes, each one a different color. The screen in front of them showed ridiculous looking race tracks but he couldn't help but feel a childish giddiness at wanting to drive through a museum and crash through a giant fossil skeleton. Sitting himself on the red one, his favorite color, Michael patted the one next to him. "We can race each other." Skillfully he twirled the card between his fingers, taunting her to rise to the challenge.
AngelDellaNotte
04-19-2021, 05:54 AM
Following Michael she stopped at the game looking at the bikes. They reminded her of the bike they had escaped Haroni on not that long ago but it really felt like it had been ages ago. That had been the only time she had ever been on a hover bike. Caspar had one but her mother refused to let him ever let Ashira ride on it. She hadn't been pleased with her son and heir to the throne riding on it but she hadn't been able to stop him. Ashira had no idea how to ride one. She walked over to Michael looking at the purple bike to his right then moved to the green bike on his left. She was sure the color didn't make a difference but she was partial to green. Ashira felt silly climbing on the bike but found it surprisingly comfortable even though to hold onto the handle bars she had to practically lay on it a little embarrassed that her rear was sticking up straight in the air.
She looked at the screen glad that it showed a quick tutorial and gave her the option to have a manual or automatic transmission. She handed Michael her card not wanting to reach to swipe it and falling off the bike. When the game activated she let him pick the course then flipped through several bikes not really know which stats were good and which were bad. In the end she picked a bike that had pretty equal stats falling right in the middle. She then selected a automatic transmission not wanting to admit she didn't know how to drive a manual car let alone a bike. “Okay I think I got this.” She said, leaning into the bike noticing the handle bars turned better when she did.
Ushima
04-19-2021, 06:47 AM
Michael took Ashira's card, chuckling as he could see she was nearly falling off if she even moved. Reaching forward he swiped her card for her. It was farther than his slot so he really had to stretch forward to reach it. After a bit of a struggle, swaying his body a little in Ashira's direction, he managed to slide it through. Handing it back to her he then did his, a lot faster as it was in reach, and the two found themselves in the same race. Using the controls he cycled through the tracks. He found one he liked, it was a jungle level that seemed to drive through some ruins. It even looked like a giant jungle monster would chase them at some point. Next came the bike selection. Michael always had a fondness for bikes with a high acceleration stat so he chose one with that, handling somewhere in the mid, and breaking was lower but he didn't plan on doing much of that. Selecting a manual transmission he hit the ready button.
Once Ashira readied up the match began. Two rows of four bikes, him and Ashira in front with two other AI racers, four AIs in the back line. "Alright lets go!" He was getting excited as he leaned forward, gripping the controls. The soundtrack (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5v-MO8gu_c) for the race started as the game started with the countdown. "If you time the acceleration right you can get a boost at the start." The race was three laps. A scantily clad girl was in front waving a go flag. The countdown begun with 3...2...1. Michael pulled back on the throttle at the right moment. The front end of his bike lifted and boosted forward, it was always funny that a speed boost was depicted by raising the front end. The first corner came up and Michael leaned his bike to the right. It reminded him of driving speeders in his free time. He missed his bike back home. One of the first thing we was going to do when he had time was take it into the wilderness for a week and just ride.
The track had twists and turns, eventually dipping into a temple of some kind. But each time they passed through it the setting changed a little until finally, in the last lap the monster came out. It was client side only so Ashira didn't have to worry about it until she got to that part. The monster (https://previews.123rf.com/images/warpaintcobra/warpaintcobra1710/warpaintcobra171000011/87658411-fantasy-dinosaur-monster.jpg) chased after the bike and maintained a predetermined distance from it. It was just a small gimmick to build tension which inevitably led to a scene where a large tree fell on it crushing it just before Michael's avatar crossed the finish line. First spot on the podium. His avatar was getting a trophy from the flag girl from earlier, receiving a kiss on the cheek as well. "Woo!" Michael sat back up, pumping his fist in the air. "Let's go!"
AngelDellaNotte
04-19-2021, 06:53 PM
Before the game started Ashira found she had a hard time sitting on the bike and balancing. Her toes barely touched the ground. It was too late to ask if the game had a height adjustment the count down was starting. She tried to time it just right like Michael had told her but she must have missed it as her avatar was engulfed in a cloud of smoke. Her bike stalled out and the other racers sped off. A couple seconds later the cloud of smoke disappeared and her bike started up. The other racers were ahead of her though it didn't take long for her to catch up with a couple of them. Still it was hard to control the bike without being able to touch the ground fully and she spent most of the time in the grass on the edge of the track. Her foot slipped and she lost her balance it bumped on something she realized was a foot peg. Timidly she lifted her feet to the pegs and let her body guide the bike relieved that it couldn't fall over.
She was able to control the bike better and spent less time in the grass. She passed a few more of the computer riders and was feeling pretty good. At least until a monster appeared behind her. She slammed on the throttle trying to out run it but her control suffered and by the time the trees fell on the monster she had dropped back two places and crossed the finish line in fifth.
“I think I like the shooting games better.” Ashira said, putting her feet back on the ground and stepping off the bike. The screen flashed with their credit scores. Michael's first place score in the racing game allowed him to catch up with her points and they were almost even. “So what's next.” Ashira said, they had been bouncing back and forth between who picked the games. It was her turn now. She waited for Michael to to get off the bike then looked around the games. There were so many different games to play she didn't know which to pick. For a couple minutes she wandered around the arcade looking at the machines. Until she came to a machine that was a glass case with little stuffed animals inside. There was a claw hanging above them. She circled around the machine taking note that the joystick controlled the claw and could be used to pick up the toys inside.
Ashira swiped her card and maneuvered the claw above a small red fluffy toy. She dropped the claw down, it wrapped around the toy and picked it up. The claws moved itself back to the drop bin but it fell out of the claw right next to the drop bin. “Aw almost.” Ashira said, reaching down to try again before Michael had a chance to put his card in. She moved the claw again picking up the toy. This time it made it to the bin and she reached into the collection bin pulling out the fluffy red toy able to clearly see it looked like the Oleran that had moved into their cabin. When the ladies had left earlier it was napping on the sofa. Lillian had tried to pick it up and put it outside several times but couldn't catch it. Finally Ashira told her to leave it there and left a window cracked enough that it could leave if it wanted to. But the creature seemed content to lay on the sofa. Ashira wondered if it would still be there when they got back. Looking down at the toy she realized she had something to remind her of it now. “Its so cute.” Ashira said, then looked to Michael. “Do you want to get something to eat?”
Ushima
04-19-2021, 07:56 PM
Michael watched Ashira navigate the rest of the course on the bike. It was comical how tiny she was on it. Watching her wiggle on it had the unintended effect of presenting her backside to him. The tight pants sent memories flashing through his head. His face darkened and when she turned to face him he feigned interest in watching the point total. They were almost tied, Ashira edging him out just a little bit by a hundred or so points. Swinging his leg over the bike he got off. “Fifth on your first try ain’t bad.” Michael complimented. Twirling his card between his fingers he followed after Ashira as she sought out a game she wanted to play.
The atmosphere was better. Just the two of them playing games. Not thinking about anything else. Not the war. The mission. Not their feelings that they have to stamp down for the sake of the galaxy, their people. He raised a curious eyebrow when she approached a crane game. The prizes were stuffed animals. Olerans. They were cute and obviously marketable. Ashira nearly got it on his first try. “Yeah these things are rig-“ He shut his mouth as the toy dropped into the retrieval bin. “How? It takes me ages to win one of these.” Scratching his chin he inspected the machine, seeing if there was trick he had missed. “Gotta teach me your secret.”
The princess wanted to eat. Michael wanted food too. So nodding yes to Ashira’s request they walked over to the food court area. Michael pulled out his coms. “Nothing from Lillian yet.” It wasn’t that strange, they were here to relax so he wasn’t going to worry about him. He figured since she knew he was with her she could relax. Going up the three steps to the next level they found a smaller table for themselves. Around them were older people, other than a group of six people by a fighting game they were the only ones to be in their twenties. The parents were drinking and laughing with each other while their kids played. A server appeared by their side and handed them a pad. “Thanks. I’ll take a beer.” Scrolling through the items on the list Michael found something he wanted. Pretzel sticks filled with cheese with a nice ranch dip. “Your turn.” Michael offered the menu to Ashira. “I recommend number seven. Had it before somewhere else and it was good.”
AngelDellaNotte
04-19-2021, 08:54 PM
“Trick? I don't know that was my first time.” Ashira said, following Michael to the food court. She looked around at the parents there watching their children play in the arcade. It was quite different than the life she grew up in. When they sat down and looked at menu she looked his suggestion thinking it looked interesting but something else caught her eye. “I'll have this the Pie-za.” She said, trying to pronounce the word as she pointed to the picture.
“Pizza. What kind?” The server asked correcting Ashira and figuring it had to be something to do with the strange accent Ashira had.
“Uhm whatever is in the picture.” Ashira said, not knowing what the little red circles on the pizza were. “And I'll have a beer too.” The sever shrugged thinking Ashira was weird but tapped their order then took the menu leaving. “Thank you for this.” Ashira said, looking over to a couple of kids playing on a dancing game. “It's so different than how I grew up. Is it sad to admit today was the first time I played a video game? We always had other things to occupy us as kids between all the lessons and classes we had to attend. When we had fun it was always something like sailing or horse back riding. Mother would never let us run around in an arcade like this. And if she did I doubt it would have been as much fun with twelve palace guards following us around.” She said, thinking of her childhood with Caspar and a few other noble children.
A few minutes later the server came back with their food and drinks setting them down on the table. Michael handed her a credit card and she walked away leaving the two of them. Ashira looked at the pizza before her and noticed the server hadn't left any silverware. Michael didn't seem to think anything was amiss so she guessed it was a food you ate with your hands. She reached out and picked up a slice bringing it to her mouth and taking a bite. “Oh gods this is good.” She said, while still chewing.
Ushima
04-20-2021, 04:10 AM
“Oh pizza. Nice choice.” Michael gave Ashira a thumbs up. It wasn’t the number seven, which was a chicken sandwich slathered in sauce. After the order was in he handed back the pad and the waitress went off to input their order. Now the two were alone. The princess went on to tell more about her life. She had never played a video game until now, never been in an arcade. Twelve palace guards posting up at various places would be quite comical. But the story made him sad. Royalty tended to miss out on average tings. Like simply going to the arcade or playing video games. Movie nights or concerts. Simple walks in a park become awkward thanks to the presence of numerous guards. It sounded so lonely. So depressing.
“That sounds like quite the ordeal. We need to get in as many firsts as we can. I had to drag Cas off to his first strip club on our first R and R back when I was eighteen. Queen Theresa (https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQxN7TfEKwMEgDwVzsb9q01nMiytr5Fr Q5_Eg&usqp=CAU) was super pissed at us. She yelled at me and Cas over the vid screen when she found out. We were super hung over and had the club stamps still on our hand. Cas had several lipstick marks on his face.” Michael started laughing. “I was pissed, but also kind of flattered. Here’s the Queen of Arturia scolding me like I was one of her own children. My own folks, Jared and Cynthia, nearly fainted when I visited with Cas. Wanted to see where his best friend, that’s still hard to believe sometimes, lived and what it was like. He was both shocked and amazed. Like an entire new world was open to him.”
“Here you are.” The waitress came back with their food and drinks. And Michael handed her the card to pay. “Enjoy.”
“Thanks.” Michael took his food, held in what looked like was sconce really, and dipped one in sauce and ate it. He smiled when he saw Ashira’s face change as she ate the pizza. He took a bite of his own food before speaking, "Didn't they teach you not to talk with your mouth full at princess school?" Taking two of his pretzel sticks he put them on Ashira's plate before taking a slice off the serving tray, sticking his tongue out at her. Peeling off a piece of pepperoni he put it on his tongue before eating it. "Been awhile since I had a slice of za."
AngelDellaNotte
05-09-2021, 03:23 PM
“Its called Finishing School and I doubt Lady Twyla would approve of anything I've done on this trip.” Ashira said, picking up the pretzel. She looked over to Michael's plate seeing several dipping sauces in little cups. One was an orange color, there was a red, white and two yellow cups. She lean over dipping the pretzel in the dark of the two yellow cups. As she brought it to her lips it smelled like a mustard but it tasted a bit more spicy than she was used it. It was good, really good. The pizza was better but this was good too. She reached over to the drinks that came with the meal. Her had been called root beer but didn't look like the beers she was used to. It was dark like a lager or an ale. The drink surprised her with its fizzyness and the way it bubbled, tasting noting like beer. “This is the strangest beer I've ever had.” Ashira said, looking at the drink and how the bubbles fizzed to the top.
Ushima
05-10-2021, 12:22 AM
Michael nearly choked on his beer when Ashira mentioned she had been given root beer. "Wow the gave you pop? Take it as a compliment I guess. Means they think you're younger than you are." Drinking age in Arturia was 18. The same age you started your compulsory service. Service wasn't always mandatory. When the war started it was volunteer only. But then they took heavy losses and the demand for troops rose. Then the executive order was given and the rest was history. At first everyone was eager to fight tooth and nail for their homeland. The honor of Arturia. And as the years passed It was honorable to serve. "Fresh faced seventeen year old Ashira. Back in finishing school getting lectured."
"Lets go Void Reaver (https://img.shoplineapp.com/media/image_clips/600c3d5021d5830014814f98/original.jpg?1611414864)!" Someone at the bar spoke loudly, catching Michael's attention. Above the bar were two vid-screens. On them were two mechs battling it out in a icy mountain landscape."
"Whoa there's a mech fight on?" Hitting a button on the table an image started playing across it. The previously mentioned Void Reaver was swinging its weapon. Kicking up diamond dust of snow and ice shards. It was difficult to see who the opponent was. But soon enough all became clear as a gray lance pierced through the fog of war causing Void Reaver to engage in booters and back away. With a stylish flourish of his lance, clearing the frosty haze and showing the mech in all his glory, stood the Iron Knight (https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51aIPYiszlL._AC_SX425_.jpg). Michael's favorite mech of all time. The pilot let out a whoop of excitement. "This is going to be a good match. Void Reaver is a newcomer who was racking up wins. Seems the League threw I.K. at him to put a stop to his streak. He's a veteran pilot going on nine years. As cool as V.R. is he'll fall before the greatness that is Iron Knight. The four time champion." A wide grin spread across Michael's face as he lit up and talked about the fighting league. It was his favorite thing outside of flying. He was happy to share part of his culture with her. After so long in Yoran space he was grateful to be home. "Which of the two do you like?"
AngelDellaNotte
05-20-2021, 02:41 AM
“Is there a difference between them?” Ashira looking over to the monitor. She never really had been into mech fighting. It seemed like a brutish sport. Not that she didn't like fighting sports it just seemed like two robots beating up on each other. Not her thing. “A couple guys in suits beating on each other. This really your thing?” Ashira said.
The table next to them cheered again and Michael focused on the screen again. Ashira took that moment to switch their drinks and grab another slice of pizza. She took a bite of the latter and then took a swig of his beer. “A unrefined sport. If you could call it that. Personally I prefer something with a little more finesse. I used to fence in school. That's a skillful sport.”
Ushima
05-20-2021, 04:53 AM
Michael scoffed. "Two people trying to poke each other with pointy things. Dumb." Michael, unknowingly, picked up Ashira's root beer. "Void Reaver is a newer model and the main strength on it is it's thrusters. A highly maneuverable threat. But Knight is a tank. A wall of defense with many years of experience behind the pilot. They're both melee fighters too so their clashes are awesome to watch." As he said that Knight reattached the lance to it's back and drew the sword, exchanging blows with Void Reaver's polearm. "It takes a lot of skill and coordination to pilot one of those things. I hopped in a small frame a few times in the army to held in the loading docks. You get this sense of invincibility in it. Like you could do anything and nothing can stop you. Now all that power in large suits with skilled pilots behind them using their quick thinking and reflexes to out wit and defeat them. Its so awesome. Of course this is all subjective."
After finishing his rant Michael sipped his drink, surprised to see his alcohol was now replaced with bubbly soda pop. Ashira, who cheekily stuck her tongue out at him, held up his mug of beer. "Jokes on you I'm into it." Not breaking eye contact Michael sipped it all down in one go. Setting the empty glass down he wiped his mouth with a napkin before letting out a loud burp. "Woo all that carbonation."
The waitress approached the table again. "Anything else for you two?"
"No thank you." Michael replied, before paying for the meal. As they finished the remnants of the food Michael was pleased to watch Iron Knight defeat Void Reaver. In an impressive display Knight managed to slice one of Reaver's large back thrusters which wrecked havoc on it's stability and movement. From there it was easy for the tank to chip away at it's enemy before the mech's systems froze up ending the match. After the meal was complete they went back out to play a few more games. A few rounds on a fighting game, a few more shooters, a rhythm game where they had to play fake instruments, one where they had to roll balls up a ramp and launch them into different holes for points. The last one before they cashed in some points was a game where they had to push pucks into the other's goal. Ashira won, but only because Michael scored on himself at the end. "No!"
Amidst Ashira's cheers and taunts Michael ushered her toward the prize counter. But then out of the corner of his eye he saw something. "Come here." Pulling her towards a small booth he shoved her in and slid in next to her so she was on his left. Closing a small curtain, giving them privacy, Michael turned on the booth. Looking back at the on a screen was their own image. "Strike a pose princess." Michael struck a pose, his tongue out and his hands held up with only his pinkies and index fingers extended. There was a flash which startled Ashira, causing Michael to laugh as the image of the picture appeared in the corner along with a five second count down. They took ten pictures in total. After they applied some effects, one picture had hearts around them, another a crown over Ashira's head and a raincloud over his, Michael had them sent to his comm device. He then sent them to Ashira's device. "Ah shit I sent them to Lillian too. Well at least she knows what we're up to."
At the prize counter Michael eyed the prizes. "Hmm what do we want?" Scratching his chin he scanned the shelves. They were arcade prizes so they were all crap to begin with. But the joy was in just having it not what it was. In the end Michael went with a stuffed Drake (https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/91UeH0M2y5L._AC_SL1500_.jpg) toy. Something the Oleran could cuddle with. Also a t-shirt with the arcade logo and name on it. Ashira picked up an inflatable hammer, which she promptly hit him in the head with, a t-shirt of her own, and some pretty slick looking shades. The rain had stopped when they left the arcade and walked down the strip. The two came to a small park and found a spot to sit near a pond. Floating in the water were soft red lights. "I can't believe you got more points than me. I'm disappointed in myself."
AngelDellaNotte
05-21-2021, 03:44 AM
Sitting in the grass next to the water Ashira looked our at the water watching as the lights rotated colors running from one color to the next following the color wheel. It started with red shifting to orange, yellow, green, blue, purple then back to red. Sitting there Ashira found herself mesmerized by the colors reflecting off the water. She was pulled from the lights as Michael spoke. “I don't think I've ever had that much fun. Thank you.” Ashira said, if only for a couple hours she forgot she was a princess and her mission. She almost forgot the feelings she had for Michael and the struggle she had with those feelings. She thought about voicing the struggle but didn't want to ruin the moment so she kept it to herself. Her communication device buzzed and she looked down to see a question mark and an emoji of a finger wagging at her. It was from Lillian no doubt about the photos Michael accidentally sent a moment later a emoji of a chili pepper no doubt from Harlow though Ashira wasn't sure if she wanted to know what the pilot meant.
“The girls have seen the photos.” Ashira said, holding up the com-device. “I'm a little surprised Lillian hasn't tracked us down yet.”
Ushima
05-21-2021, 05:57 PM
"They must be having fun if they're just responding now." Michael replied, watching the lights change. "Though I'm just as surprised as you. Figured Nanny Lillian would've stomped her way down here. If we don't find them soon just message them that we'll meet them back at the unit." Her held the plushie in his hand, looking at it. "You know I've seen the real versions of these up close. They're nice when they're tiny but if you get a big one pissed at you, you may be in for an interesting afternoon." The palace had several drakes wandering the hall. Personal pets and guards. Even the army utilized them. Strong, loyal creatures. Michael's coms went off, shrill beeps piercing the air. Pulling it out of his pocket he swiped up and answered it. "Yo this is Mike?"
"Where are you two!?" Lillian yelled. He wasn't sure if it was cause she was mad or if it was cause it was loud in the background.
"Hey we were just talking about you. We're chilling in the park by a pond with lights floating on it." Michael answered.
"We-" Lillian's response was drowned out as the crowd roared. Then the connection went out.
"Well then." Michael stuffed the com device back in his pocket. "Concert sounds like its going well." He kind of wished he could've seen the end of it. But then the thought passed through his head, they didn't know how long the band was performing. It was only a little passed eleven right now. Any normal band would play until at least two. "So we can either wait here for a bit and see if mother hen shows up or we can find something else to do. Maybe there's a cinema around playing a late night show...what do you think?"
AngelDellaNotte
05-22-2021, 05:21 PM
“Let's just sit for a while.” Ashira said, still looking out over the water. Compared to the flashing lights of the arcade the rhythmic pattern of the lights on the lake was soothing. “I mean it, Michael this nice. Let me forget about everything for a night.” She looked down at the Oleran realizing she had been hugging it. She was glad she would always have it to remember this night. There was a lingering feeling in her mind she would need this reminder in the days to come as she started her new life. She was about to comment on it when she heard sirens racing past them. She watched as a couple fire trucks sped by followed by several police cars. “Wonder what's going on.” Ashira asked noticing they were heading to the club Lillian and Harlow were at.
A few moments later Lillian came crashing through the bushes dragging a very drunk Harlow with her. “Time to go.” Lillian said, pulling the pilot with her stopping just long enough to pull Ashira and Michael to their feet.
“Okay, what's going on?” Ashira said, breaking into a run behind Lillian.
“She is never allowed to drink again.” Lillian said, stopping because Harlow had stumbled and was laying on the ground laughing. Lillian let out a frustrated growl as she tried to help her back up but the pilot was fighting her as she laughed. “Oh fuck it.” Lillian said, then punched Harlow knocking her out. “Trust me she deserves this.” Lillian picked up Harlow throwing her over her shoulder in a fireman's carry, showing that she really was a soldier. “The show had some pretty cool pyrotechnics and before I realized it this one was missing. When I found her she was on stage using those cool pyrotechnics as a flame thrower. She managed to catch a banner on fire. I should have just left her dumb ass there for the police to pick up. But for whatever reason I dragged her out of there and here we are.”
Ushima
05-23-2021, 02:24 AM
"Ashira I-" Michael's sentence was cut off as Lillian stumbled out of a bush behind them with a drunk Harlow in tow. "What the hell is this?"
"Sorry to ruin your date." Harlow mumbled as she straightened herself out after Lillian pulled her through the shrub.
"Shit you're going to be on the news." Michael ran a hand through his hair, suddenly stress out. So much for being low key." He sighed, standing up from the bench. He listened as Lillian ranted about how she should have left Harlow behind. "Probably a good idea you brought her along. A non-defector Yoran in Arturian territory is usually frowned upon. You did the right thing. As difficult as it is." He watched as Lillian, fed up with Harlow's stubborn attitude, punched her in the face knocking her out. "Damn Lillian you have a mean right hook." Off in the distance Michael could hear sirens approaching the park. "We need to move. Back to the unit." The group moved toward the park exit, the sirens getting louder. Michael cursed. He knew with them carrying Harlow they'd be slower and the police would spot them immediately. No one else looked as suspicious as they did right now. So he stopped running.
"Hey you!" A loud voice yelled. Approaching him was a large man (https://i.pinimg.com/originals/35/76/2e/35762e0fa4626cee73360521cbc439eb.jpg) in police uniform. "We're looking for two suspects have you seen them?" A data pad was shoved in his face. Staring back at him was blurry photos of Lillian and Harlow.
"They just ran through here." Michael pointed in the opposite direction the trio of women ran and the opposite direction of the way back to their room. "Took a right down that alley over there."
"You positive?" Michael nodded. "Thank you citizen. Enjoy the rest of your evening."
Michael waved after the police officer. "Always leave one behind to throw off the trail." He turned, smirking as he walked down the street. Soon enough he came to the rail platform. Hopping onto the next car he took the car back to the station near their room. Getting off the railcar Michael walked up the path to their temporary home. Scanning the room key next to the door Michael entered the unit. "Honey I'm home!" He yelled, kicking off his shoes.
AngelDellaNotte
05-23-2021, 04:27 AM
She followed after Lillian for a while hearing the police officer yelling at them. She turned to see Michael stop to talk to the officer. He pointed away from them and said something else to the officer. Ashira realizing he was leading them away from she turned to run after Lillian. They managed to get back to the house without the police seeing them. Though it would only be a matter of time before they tracked them down. They would have to leave the planet soon. She wasn't sure how interconnected the police here in Arthurian were but if they were like Yoran police they used a central data base.
Lillian set Harlow down on the sofa as the pilot started to come to. “Ow what the hell happened?” Harlow said, rubbing her eye where it was already starting to bruise.
“What the hell happened? You want to know what the hell happened?” Lillian swung around facing Harlow her fist clinched ready to hit her again.
“Yeah, I don't remember a damn thing.” Harlow said, groaning and looking down as CLEO rolled by. “Hey Chloe, Cleo whatever your name is can you get me some ice?” The robot ignored her until she called the right command word. It responded affirmative then wheeled off.
“Well isn't that just great.” Lillian said, her knuckles turning white. “I should throw your ass on a transport back to Yoran.”
“Oh come on it can't be that bad.” Harlow said, as CLEO came back handing Harlow an ice pack that she put on her face. “What I get us thrown out of the club? That waitress was cute and she was flirting with me.”
Before Lillian could respond Ashira stepped between them. “Maybe it wouldn't be that bad of an idea having both of you go back to Yoran.” Ashira said, setting the stuffed Oleran down on the couch. She had left the other stuff she had won behind in the park but had been holding it when Lillian burst through the bushes.
“There is no way in hell I am leaving you alone in enemy territory.” Lillian said.
“They aren't our enemy anymore Lillian.” Ashira said, though it was hard to think of the Arthurian as anything else.
“Yeah but do they know that?” Lillian asked. “I'm not leaving you here end of story. I swore an oath to protect you.”
Ashira didn't get a chance to respond as Michael came into the unit. “Did you loose them?”
Ushima
05-23-2021, 11:00 AM
Entering the kitchen he heard the women arguing. “Is this what I come home to after work? I should’ve stayed at the office. How are the kids doing honey?” Rolling his eyes he opened the fridge and pulled out a bottle of water. Cracking it open he took a healthy swing. Closing the fridge he leaned back against it. Ashira approached him, asking if he lost the authorities. “Sent them running in the opposite direction. But now these two,” He pointed to Lillian and Harlow. “Are not allowed back outside. They have pictures of the two of you. They did not capture your good sides.” Chuckling, as Lillian flipped him off, Michael moved over to the living room couch. Harlow was posted up on the recliner.
Turning on the TV he set it to play soft music through it. “I was planning on a short hike after breakfast tomorrow. Seems you two will be missing out.”
“Ugh don’t rub it in. Stuck inside all day with this one.” On shaky legs Harlow stood and took a few steps forward.
“You ok there champ?” Michael asked. He didn’t get a response. Instead he watched in horror as Harlow’s cheeks puffed out. A second later a stream of bile shot out of Harlow’s mouth, covering Michael’s shirt and arms. “Fuck!” He stood up, the bottle of water strewn across the room. “Someone always pukes.” He bid a hasty retreat down the stairs. Fighting the urge to vomit himself he entered the bathroom, stripping off his clothes and tossing them aside. A CLEO would take care of them. Turning on the water to a nice warm temperature he hopped in the shower. He scrubbed himself down of vomit, along with the dirty and sweat from the night out. After washing himself, extra attention to his arms and chest, he exited the shower.
Standing in front of the mirror Michael looked himself over. He still had marks from his tryst with Ashira. Dark hickeys and bite marks on his chest, shoulders, neck. There were even three down around his hips along with an imprint of Ashira's mouth. It was something he wasn’t going to forget any time soon. Looking for his clothes he wasn’t surprised to see CLEO had come in and grabbed his things. They were in the wash right now. Grabbing a towel he sighed, wrapping it around his waist. “Anything else want to happen?” He mumbled before opening the door and entered the hallway to go back to his room.
AngelDellaNotte
05-23-2021, 03:37 PM
Letting out a big sigh Ashira turned to the stairs. “Harlow get cleaned up and go to bed.” She looked to Lillian who was about to stay something more than likely to argue more. Ashira held her hand up stopping her. “We will talk more in the morning.” She stepped around Harlow's mess and picked up the stuffed Oleran before walking up the stairs. When she got there the bed hadn't been made and still showed the signs of her tryst with Michael. This morning seemed like so long ago. The CLEO must not make beds, she wished it had to erase the signs of what they did. Ashira dropped the stuffed Oleran onto the the bed then went to the shower to wash up. When she came back out she dressed then looked to the bed at hearing a soft rumbling growl. The real Oleran was sitting next to the stuffed growling at the toy. “It's not real.” Ashira said, walking around to sit down next to it. “It's just a toy.” The Oleran continued to growl then leaned over and knocked the toy off the bed. Then it pranced back to Ashira a smug pride look on its face as it plopped down in her lap snuggling up to her. “Jealous? I'm not replacing you. More like something to remember you by. Eventually I will have to leave and this is your home.”
The Oleran let out a small whimper as Ashira pulled the sheets back to lay down in the bed. It felt strange laying in the bed. The sheets smelled like Michael. She wasn't sure if she would be able to fall asleep thinking about Michael. The Oleran bounced over sliding against Ashira settling in and falling asleep. “Guess I should try to sleep too.” Ashira said, stroking the Oleran's fur before closing her eyes.
Ushima
05-23-2021, 06:23 PM
Inside his room Michael discarded the towel to the floor. Now nude in privacy he stood, eyes closed, as he let the stress fade away. It was cool as he stood, dripping onto his fallen towel, central air blowing on his wet skin causing goose bumps to rise along his skin. "Nice and cool." Going through his bag he pulled on fresh clothes. Red underwear with black shorts, a grey t-shirt and black socks.
*knock**knock* "Hey Mikey you decent in there!?" Harlow's voice yelled through the door.
Lillian's followed. "Get inside and get to bed!" He heard Harlow grunt, Lillian shoved her into the room, then a door slam.
Opening the door Michael stepped out into the hallway. "Things are getting kinda heated right now huh?"
Sighing while pinching the bridge of her nose, evident of a headache coming on, Lillian replied, "Yes its quite aggravating."
"Why don't you take my room if you don't want to be around her? I'll post up on the couch." Michael ducked back inside his room and grabbed his gun.
"No I couldn't." Lillian tried waving him off but Michael was already bounding upstairs.
"Ashira would be upset if you two killed each other. Just get some sleep and we'll talk in the morning." Upstairs Michael dimmed the lights. The glass panes were still dark from when Michael and Ashira had sex. "Ugh you nearly plunged your nation back into war Michael. Get it together." Sitting down on the couch Michael placed his gun on the coffee table. The music was still playing so grabbing the remote Michael set it to Mech Fights. They were playing old matches. Something mindless he could have as background noise. He cursed to himself as he realized he didn't grab a blanket but rationalizing it was warm enough he got over it. Fixing a pillow on the end of the couch he laid down on his right side facing the TV. The couch was comfortable. He hoped the light from the TV wasn't bothering Ashira, her room was right behind him. But he figured with the tinted panes she was fine. If it was a bother she'd certainly tell him. The events of the day finally were catching up with him and Michael let out a big yawn, eyes closing and soon he was asleep.
AngelDellaNotte
05-24-2021, 01:54 AM
Waking up Ashira slide the Oleran off her shoulder onto the pillow. It groaned but didn't wake up. She looked over to the clock seeing it was close to 7am. She quickly dressed putting on a pair of jeans, black shirt with a green jacket, red scarf and a pair of boots (https://i.pinimg.com/564x/eb/69/12/eb6912eaa77c12dab0afd861dee66af8.jpg). Walking down the stairs she noticed she was the first one awake. What's more she saw Michael sleeping on the sofa. He didn't have any sheets or blankets. She wondered what led him to sleep on the sofa. He must not have seen the blanket on the arm chair across the room. Ashira picked it up and draped it over Michael being careful to wake him up. She then walked over to the kitchen and looked threw the fridge. Ashira didn't have a lot of cooking experience though the fridge was fully stocked. She reached in seeing a carton of eggs thinking cooking eggs couldn't be that hard.
She set them on the counter and saw a monitor built into the wall, thinking she could pull up a cooking tutorial. She turned it on the default setting was to a local news station. Ashira thought it would be covering the fire at the club last night but it surprised her that it wasn't on news. Hitting a few buttons she brought up a recipe from a quiche, splitting the screen between the recipe and news. She watched the news as she cooked dreading the moment it covered the club fire but it never came. The news seemed focused on a breaking story about a bridge that workers found a large crack on. Apparently it was a very popular bridge that was used nearly all the time. It had been shut down creating a traffic jam unlike anyone on the planet had seen before. The news crews keep flashing to the crack on the bridge which honestly looked nothing like a crack but rather that the beam had broken in two. The rust on the beam looked like it had broken a while ago.
Ashira put the quiche in the oven and set a timer. She started focusing on the news thinking there was nothing left in the cooking but to wait so she flipped through several different news channels on the monitor. None of them were covering the fire at the club and all of them were on the bridge story. It looked like they might be in the clear but it still wouldn't hurt if Lillian and Harlow stayed out of sight.
Ushima
05-24-2021, 03:11 AM
Feeling warmth take over him Michael curled further into it. The night on the couch wasn't bad, it really was a comfy couch. Plus watching the old matches while he drifted off to sleep was entertaining. He dreamt of soft hands and tender kisses stolen away in lavish private rooms. Illicit affairs that would break two kingdoms if anyone found out. A bittersweet dream. One that he was broken out of by the small of fresh food. Michael's stomach rumbled loudly, enough to rival a drake. Sitting up he stretched, yawning. "What smells so good." The blanket pooled around his waist, surprising Michael as he didn't have it when he went to bed. Someone put it on him. Looking around he did not see Harlow and Lillian. Only Ashira at the stove. Looking very much like a young housewife. He felt his face flush as he stood up. 'Not the time for those thoughts.'
Standing up from the couch Michael stretched. "Moring." He said, groaning as he bent backwards. A satisfying series of pops was heard. "Oh yeah." Sighing he moved to the kitchen. "Something smells good." His hand was under his shirt scratching his stomach as he moved to the fridge. Reaching in he grabbed a bottle of milk. Twisting the purple cap off he closed the fridge with his hip. "So what is her majesty whipping up to treat us commoners this fine morning? For it smells divine."
AngelDellaNotte
06-07-2021, 04:00 AM
“A quiche though I have to admit I've never made it before.” Ashira said, looking over to the oven were it was still cooking. The timer over the oven showed it still had several minutes. “The recipe wasn't that hard. I don't really cook much. I doubt that is surprising to you. It was enjoyable.” She said, walking to the fridge and opening it. Inside there were several options of juice. She grabbed the orange juice and the apple juice. She knew most people enjoyed orange juice with breakfast but she didn't care much for it so that is why she had the apple juice. She set both down on the counter before Michael and poured herself a glass of apple juice. He could pour his own whichever he chose. Normally she started her day with coffee but hadn't really been drinking it while on the trip. There was a pot on the counter. Michael could want some, she should have thought to make a pot. No doubt Harlow would need some coffee. She filled the pot and poured it into the coffee maker adding a couple of extra scoops to help sober Harlow up whenever she fell out of bed.
“Last night was fun until hurricane Harlow rolled in.” Ashira said.
Ushima
06-08-2021, 02:59 AM
"Quiche? Never had one before. Should be good." Michael smiled and moved into the living room. "Hurricane Harlow. We have to call her that all the time now. Downsides include property damage, interrupted concerts and ruined evenings. I could take them crashing into our adventure but the puke all over me? No thanks. She's got some work to do before she's back in my good graces." He shot Ashira a smirk, obviously joking. An apology would work. "Oh hey!" Michael pointed to the news. "There they are." It was at the bottom of the screen, the little scrolling bar. It mentioned the fire last night as some drunk tourists. "Seems our little arson gets a shout out after all."
"I should've strangled her in her sleep." Lillian's voice made Michael turn around.
"Don't do that. I'm not in the mood to hide a body today." Michael chuckled. "She adds a bit of excitement though she needs to learn when to rein it in. Wonder if we should find Setsuna and Hikari to apologize. The least we could do. Maybe I should use the royal seal to pay for the damages. Charge it to the royal family. Just to spice up the expense report meeting I'm going to have to sit through and justify all my money spending decisions."
"That'd raise a few eyebrows. Flashing that thing around too much." Lillian replied, always the voice of logic.
"Fair point." Michael switched the TV to a music station, tired of the news now. And just in time as the bell for the oven went off. "Oh mother has finished breakfast. I'm starving." His stomach rumbled to emphasize his point. "This is going to be delicious."
Ushima
07-04-2021, 03:26 AM
Harlow had stumbled upstairs holding her head. Hung over she sat at the table to begin getting lectured by Lillian. Now no longer drunk the Yoran Ace Pilot was being shown the error of her ways. Michael could only smile at the scene while he ate his meal, Ashira serving him a decent size portion. It was all very domestic. Like they were some dysfunctional family having their morning meal. They even had taken up positions like a family unit. Michael was at the head and Ashira sat on his right hand side. They were getting to familiar and falling into routine roles. It was enough to make his head spin with how the two of them were playing off each other without thinking about it. So Michael ate quickly. "This is really good Ashira." He complimented between bites of food. After his meal Michael did the dishes, it was only fair after Ashira did the cooking.
"That's a good house husband." Even hung over Harlow couldn't help her teasing. Michael's back was turned so the ladies couldn't see his darkening face. He heard Lillian shush the pilot. Once the dishes were rinsed and in the washing machine Michael decided it was time to get out of the unit. With Lillian and Harlow on temporary house arrest it was just Ashira and himself. "But I want to go!" Harlow whined.
"People who don't burn down nightclubs get to go on a hike." Michael wagged his finger at Harlow and left, Ashira behind him. Their Oleran friend slipped out of the door and chased after them. "We're going to the Eternal Flame Falls trail." He informed the princess. "It's a nice trail with a good payoff. There's a waterfall that has a flame behind it because natural gas come out of the ground." They had to get to the start of the trail which was on the other side of the commercial center. So Michael led the way down the path to the rail system. The car pulled up and was empty, the two passengers and their pet walked on. The Oleran hopped into Ashira's lap as they rode to the strip. Together they walked through the commercial center. It was a different atmosphere during the day than at night. Gone were the flashing lights and music from clubs and arcades. Now the regular shops were open. Restaurants and boutiques.
One of the boutiques workers was out front and waved at them. "Sir!" The woman called. "How about you bring your girlfriend in to try something on for later!"
"Pushy that one." Michael mumbled, face red. "Maybe later we're going on a hike." They were passing through a risque part of the district and the sales woman was trying to get them into what was lingerie store. He didn't need to imagine Ashira in those things. "Fate is certainly rubbing salt in the wound." Ashira gave him a quizzical look at his mumbling causing him to cough into his hand. It was a struggle to be sure, to remain civil, but he vowed to control his desire to save his, and her, people. For the greater good and all that.
They were nearing the outskirts of the district where some of the hiking trails would begin. "Just over there." Michael pointed. "It'll take about two hours to get to the waterfall." He was about to explain some of the things they'd pass along the way when a large explosion erupted behind them. Michael grabbed Ashira and pulled her behind a taxi. Gun drawn he peeked over the hood. "The fuck was that!?" Another explosion rocked a building closer to them. Followed immediately by shouting and gunfire. Two people in shoddy armor emerged from an alley brandishing old T-47 (https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/titanfall/images/d/d4/Flatline_TF2.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/774?cb=20170812083313) assault rifles. They weren't expecting Michael to be armed and he fired four shots, two in each chest, and they went down quickly. Not seeing any more thugs Michael went over to inspect the bodies. Tucking his hand cannon back he grabbed a rifle off one of the fallen and took a few mags. "Seems like all hell broke loose." Michael eyed the alley they came out of. Seeing something that made his blood run cold. "No." Walking down the alley, rifle raised and Ashira tucked into his side, Michael came face-to-face with a crudely graffitied emblem on the wall. Eight Pointed Arrows (https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/warhammer40k/images/5/5a/Star_of_Chaos.jpg/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/250?cb=20110716020415) in a circle. "No no no no this isn't good." He looked to Ashira, anticipating her questions. "Scattered Arrows. Insurrectionists. Terrorists more than anything. They've been fighting the King's forces longer than your people have. They've been relatively quiet the last two years. Guess it was a matter of time before they popped their annoying heads out of their hole. I'm just a little concerned with the timing." Michael pulled out his comms device and tried calling Lillian. "Comms traffic is jammed. They have the signal tower. Can't call for help." Michael glanced out of the alley. It was a long walk back to the railway to get to their ship. And that was even if it's running now. "Gonna be a loooong day princess."
AngelDellaNotte
07-19-2021, 04:03 AM
Instinct took over at the sound of the explosion causing Ashira to duck behind the car. It was disturbing to think how this was becoming routine for her. Dodging explosions and bullets shouldn't be a normal thing. The Oleran jumped from the ground and burrowed into her jacket. The little creature was shaking obviously not has used to chaos as Ashira was. She zipped her jacket up sealing in the little thing. It trusted her to keep it safe and she was going to do her best. Michael shot at the insurgents, Ashira hadn't even thought to bring a weapon but she supposed that was why he was the bodyguard and not her. A insurgent went down and he grabbed the rifle before dragging her into the alleyway. He tried using a comm unit but it wasn't working. They talked a bit about the long walk back which no doubt would be hampered by fighting in the streets.
A loud bang sounded through the alleyway causing Ashira to duck and look over at insurgent standing at the end of the alleyway pointing a gun at them. Lucky for them he had bad aim. The shooter looked barely old enough to drive and it was probably his first time using a gun off the range. He fired again the round hitting the wall behind them. The round didn't inbed itself in the wall like a normal bullet or scorch it like a laser round. Instead it fizzled out like a dying sparkler. Michael was quick to react and shot, his bullets much more lethal. The young man dropped to the ground. Michael grabbed her hand again and ran past the insurgent. Quickly as they past him Ashira bent down and picked up the gun he had been using and a comm device. She figured they had some kind of encryption allowing them to communicate, with it they may be able to contact Lillian and Harlow. With any luck they could pick them up in the ship and get the hell off this planet. The rifle she picked up was a laser rifle (https://i.pinimg.com/564x/3c/f7/06/3cf706575031f329cdd6a0706f7e70aa.jpg) with multiple settings. A fast glance at it showed it was set to stun which seemed odd given what Micahel had told them about the group. You would think a group trying to overthrow the government wouldn't pull their punches. Maybe it was the kid not having the courage to kill.
She didn't have much time to think on it as they were running again. It seemed like they were running for some time. Ashira could feel the little Oleran's claws digging into her but was glad to know it was safe. After a mile or so of running they stopped hiding behind a van that had been flipped over by a explosion. They both needed to catch their breath and regroup. She looked down at the comm unit she had taken and was shocked by what she saw on the screen. Michael was rambling about which route would be the best to take. There seemed to be fighting everywhere but she really wasn't listening. Instead she just stared at the screen. He asked her a question but she hadn't heard him. “Uh Michael....” She said, holding up the screen showing Michael an image of herself with a large series of numbers beneath it looking very much like a wanted poster, it even had the word 'alive' written on it. Well that seemed to explain the stun gun. Things were going to get very tricky, she thought wondering who had put the bounty out on her. They certainly had no shortage of people with a grudge against them.
Ushima
07-20-2021, 02:11 AM
Michael held out his hand for the device Ashira was holding. Once it was in his hand he looked at the image of the Yoran princess. "Oh you are so photogenic." This all but confirmed his suspicions that this incident wasn't just a violent extremist incident. "Someone struck a deal with the Shattered Arrows." He swiped his thumb across Ashira's photo. The image moved away and was replaced by his face. In big red bold letters was DEAD underneath his face. "Not as attractive as yours but not a bad shot of me eh?" After a few more swipes Michael shoved the device into his back pocket. "We'll use that to monitor enemy comms, maybe even trick them into moving positions. Nice grab. It also seems Lillian's and Harlow's faces aren't on it. We're clearly the main targets." Michael peeked out of the alley, seeing no one in the streets. The sound of fighting was off in the distance though. Pressing himself against the wall he took the weapon from Ashria. "Rytech Lasrifle." He inspected the weapon. "This model came out two years ago. Even for the Arrows this is too new. Someone outfitted these guys." Raising the rifle up to his eyes he looked down the scope, letting out a whistle. "Well maintained too." With his inspection complete he gave the gun back to Ashira. She was a better shot so the princess having a precision weapon wasn't a terrible idea. The spray and pray option was better for him anyway.
"Ready to move?" He asked, raising his weapon and looked back out. There was another alley a ways down with an overturned taxi. Michael looked toward the rooftops. "I see one marksman across the street. Three buildings down." He pointed to the target and Ashira's head peered around him. "We have to take him out. I'm gonna move for the car to distract him and you pop him. Otherwise he'll easily pick us off. On three." He took a deep breath as he counted on his fingertips. With a big exhale he said, "One." And sprinted out of the alley moving toward the next cover. Closer and closer he got. 'If you hear it, it wasn't meant for you.' He told himself as he ran. 'Trust her.' The pop of a laser round was heard as Michael bounced off the side of the taxi. A body crashed down onto an awning and Ashira was giving him a thumbs up back at his previous position. He waved her over and took watch, sweeping his rifle across the street. Once Ashira joined him he moved her into the alley. "Nice shot." He complimented. "Knew you wouldn't let me get shot again."
The two were posted up a little ways in the alley, by a door leading into the building. He was pretty sure it was a bowling alley. Before he could speak to Ashira the door creaked open and a pistol pressed itself to the side of Michael's head. "Well what do we have here?"
Michael blinked. "Ah shit I know that voice. Booker?"
"Hey kid. Fancy meeting you here." The door swung open and the security guard they met the night before walked out. "Seems you're on your own protection duty." Hikari's head popped up behind Booker. She waved at them.
Michael waved back. "Hey girl. Where's your sister?"
"Back at the hotel." She answered.
"More security because of all the guests there so she's ok. Along with the rest of my boys." Booker pulled out a cigarette from his jacket pocket. "Little one wanted to bowl so that's why we're out here."
"We were going to go for a hike. Then shit started exploding." Michael replied. "We're trying to get back to our unit up the mountain. We got a ship that can be ready soon."
Booker scratched his chin. "Think you can get in the air with everything going on? Their ships will blast you."
"We got defenses of our own. We'll be ok." Michael moved down the alley and peeked outside. Seeing no movement he looked back to Booker. "We just need to get to the rail."
"Mind if we tag along? Booker asked. "Getting the youngin' out of the center of this is a good idea. Security forces are no doubt trying to rally for a push and since she's untrained keeping her safe will put me at ease."
Michael nodded. "The more guns the better I say. Ashira?"
AngelDellaNotte
07-20-2021, 03:03 AM
“Safety in numbers.” Ashira said, rubbing her finger on the trigger housing of the rifle. It a nice gun. Just before shooting the sniper she had switched the gun off of stun. She didn't know how long a stun would knock him out and they needed to take as many players off the board. She had been surprised to see Booker and then a little worried after whatever happened with Harlow. He didn't seem to be holding it against though. “We can get off this planet, that's not a problem. We've got one hell of a pilot when she's sober.” Ashira said, poking fun at Michael even if this wasn't the best place. “Michael's not half bad either.”
They started moving down the street sticking close to the walls and using alleyways whenever they could. Twice more they had to stop to take out snipers. About a mile from the bowling alley they stopped taking shelter in the gazebo of a park. Hikari wasn't a soldier like the rest of them and couldn't keep up with the pace Michael and Ashira had been going earlier. Booker and Michael took up watch on both sides of the gazebo while Ashira and Hikari sat down under the edge of the wall. The younger girl looked terrified obvious this was a foreign environment for her. Ashira wasn't sure what to say to the girl to claim her down. She was saved from the challenge as the Oleran took that moment to poke his head out of her jacket. Ashira had almost forgot her was there. She was glad he was safe though he looked just as scared as Hikari.
“Is that an Oleran?” Hikari asked, leaning in and was about to touch him when she stopped just short. “I've never seen one up this close. Well only in a zoo. I always wondered if they were as soft as they look.”
“He is the softest thing I've ever felt.” Ashira said, gently rubbing behind his ear. “He likes it when you scratch right here.” She encouraged Hikari to pet the Oleran it seeming to calm her down. “I had never seen one before coming here. I'm told they are usually shy creatures but this one seems to be quite a social creature.”
“It is very rare. Though I have heard stories of them bonding with people.” Hikari said. The Oleran looked up at Ashira who nodded it seeming like they could sense what the other was thinking. The Oleran jumped from Ashira's lap to Hikari. “Can you keep an eye on him?” She asked.
Hikari nodded hugging the Oleran tight and snuggling close to him. “We should get moving again.” Booker said, puzzled at where the Oleran had come from.
Ushima
07-20-2021, 04:16 AM
Michael held the enemy comms device out as he and Booker stood watch while Hikari rested. "Poor girl isn't used to this." Booker sighed.
"Jumping around on stage isn't the same as sneaking down streets and alleys with your head on a swivel." The pilot took a drag on cigarette he bummed from Booker. "Much more enjoyable though."
"Gonna be honest lad, kinda excited a bit." Booker chuckled, puffing out a small cloud of smoke. He saw Michael's strange look. "The fighting. An old war dog like me. You need a special something to make it in Black Ops. Or maybe more accurately a lack of something." The security guard held up his right hand. "See that? Shakes are gone. It's like a fire was lit in my blood."
"Hmm." Michael scratched his chin. "Think I know what you mean. When I'm not behind the controls I get antsy. My fingers ache to be on the throttle."
"Kid." Booker started. "I just wanted to say I'm sorry for bustin' your balls yesterday."
"This isn't one of those 'we might be dead later so I'll say it now' things is it?" Michael took a long drag and tossed the butt of his cig aside. "Cause I hate those."
"Nah." Booker did the same thing Michael did. "Something just tells me we're gonna be too busy soon. Comms seem to say a patrol ahead is moving out of the way. We should get moving again." Booker blinked. "Is that an Oleran?"
"No time like the present." Michael pocketed the comms. "Ok girls breaks over. And to answer your question yes. And to answer your next question yes it is practically unheard of for them to get close to...well pretty much anything." Reaching down Michael helped the young girl, only two years younger than Ashira, up to her feet. He scratched the Oleran's chin before moving to Ashira. "Come on princess." Helping Ashira up he stumbled a little, catching her tight in his arms. His face flushed a little. "Sorry. Seems I'm a little tired."
"Good to go flyboy?" Booker asked, revolver spinning on his fingers. Hikari giggled as Michael and Ashira moved apart. Michael checked his ammo and weapon, smirking at the satisfying clicks of magazines and bolts slid into place.
"Lets move." Michael led the way first out of the park. At the exit back onto the main road he held up his fist for the group to stop. The path ahead had dead civilians on the street. They had passed a few but this was excessive. "The fighting must have started here. Or at the very least nearby."
"Think there's any fools hanging about?" Booker asked, gun up and ready.
"Probably." Michael sighed. "And the railway is two blocks that direction." He pointed down the street where the sign for the railway pickup could just barely be seen. Though Ashira could see it fine with her rifle scope. "I'm going to move up to that bus stop and post up. Once I give the signal you can move up with Ashira and Hikari. Ashira will stay at my position while you two move forward to that map terminal." Michael pointed to the large shot out screen. No longer working it will still provide decent cover from anything coming down the street at them. "Ashira will then provide overwatch while I move up to the next spot." Michael explained the plan of moving forward. "Wish me luck." Michael ran to the bus stop. A crack rang out as a bullet impacted near Michael's feet. Four thugs popped out from behind burned out vehicles. "Plans cancelled we got a fight on our hands!" Michael leaned out of the stop and fired his gun in controlled bursts. One enemy went down but the other three returned fire. "Fuck what I wouldn't give for air support! And me in the air support!"
AngelDellaNotte
07-25-2021, 07:33 PM
“Princess?” Hikari asked looking over to Ashira a puzzled look on her face. “Is that some sort of pet name?
Ashira looked from Michael to Hikari surprised he let his guard slip but they were in the middle of a battlefield. “Something like that.” Ashira said, she didn't think Hikari knew her secret and had a feeling she could trust Setsuna not to say anything. Their conversation hadn't been long but it felt like they had formed a sort of bond. They moved down the street toward the station, every so often Ashira would pause and look with her scope. The path seemed clear until Michael started moving a was cut off by a group of fighters. Ashira wasn't really sure where they had come from.
Within seconds they seemed surrounded. “It's her!” she heard one of the fighters shout as more fighters seemed to pour out. Booker had the comm unit now and she could hear it beep no doubt broadcasting their location. She wasnt sure when he had taken it from Michael but now wasn't the time to worry about that. Though she did make a mental note to get it from him when this was over so he didn't see the wanted poster. Who knew what kind of data was on it.
“Michael we got another problem! They recognized me.” Ashira said ducking behind a vending machine. She took a brief look at the machine as it was cold when she leaned against it noticing it dispensed beer and other forms of alcohol. She really could go for a beer right now but it wouldn't do in a fight.
“What the hell do you mean they recognize you?” Booker shouted from behind another vending machine. He had Hikari ducked down beneath him.
“I seem to have a bounty out against me.” Ashira said, shooting down the street attempting to lay down enough cover fire for Michael to get to a better spot. “Not sure who put it out. But to be honest we've pissed off a lot of people in our travels.”
“Why don't I find that hard to believe?” Booker said, thinking about the destruction they had left at the concert last night. As he spoke a burst of gun fire hit the machine they were behind sending cotton flying over the two of them. From the side of the machine it seemed it sold stuffed animals though now they were shredded.
Ashira was a little glad that he didn't press more but had a feeling he would when people weren't shooting at them. That was if they made it out of here. Right now it wasn't looking good as they were scattered on the street and more fighters seemed to be pouring in from everywhere. “Michael any ideas of how the hell to get out of here other than air support we don't have?” Ashira said, and as if on cue the sound of a hover craft (https://i.pinimg.com/564x/cc/95/be/cc95be9432d4d57fe9fc90ec954a3ce6.jpg) broke through the sound of gun fire. At first Ashira thought it was more fighters and they were screwed. Whoever was on the hover craft had a large laser machine gun, when it started shooting Ashira was shocked and relieved when it wasn't aimed at them. They would have been done if it had.
The hover craft skidded around the street and Ashira couldn't make out who was on it between it flying all over the place and the flash from the gun. The only thing she really could make out was the side of the hover craft had 'Zulian Tours' written on the side. It was apparent it wasn't a military craft and whoever was using it was improvising. If Michael hadn't been pinned down at the bus stop Ashira would have thought it was him at the helm of the craft.
She tried to watch as it zipped around but couldn't make out anything more about it. Then she was pinned down by another round of gun fire whoever shooting at her having forgot there was a no kill order on her. The bullets from their gun pierced the side of vending machine showering Ashira in beer and what she thought was wine. She much rather have the cotton that was covering Booker and Hikari.
The craft took another pass around the street taking out a number of fighters. It then landed a short distance from Ashira and she could see Lillian standing on one of the seats of the tour ship holding a massively huge gun (https://i.pinimg.com/564x/90/08/cf/9008cf4e858487af8e1f1bf87935467b.jpg) she hadn't recalled seeing in their inventory. “Looks like you got a new toy.” Ashira said, jumping in the back seat of the craft behind Harlow who was in the driver seat. “Not that I am complaining but did you steal this?”
“Lillian insisted on finding you in this maelstrom. I told her there was no way in hell it was happening on the ground. Believe it or not but it was her idea to steal it.” Harlow shouted lifting off from the ground and moving over to where Booker and Hikari were. “Want to get the hell out of here?” Once they were aboard Harlow looked around not seeing Michael. “Where the hell is the flyboy?”
Ushima
07-26-2021, 01:26 AM
Michael popped up from behind behind a car and fired his weapon. Three bursts downed two guys swiftly. Rounding a corner Michael saw an insurrectionist come around one himself. "Drop it!" Michael yelled.
"Die!" She raised a similar looking gun to his own. Both rifles clicked empty. "Shit."
He cursed too and dropped his gun. His handcannon never made it out as he was tackled mid reach. The two sprawled on the ground. Punches came raining down on his head before he raised his arms to block the blows. Using his weight he rolled them over so he was on top and returned the hits. Abruptly he was yanked off the woman by a large man. Michael watched the woman do that fancy kick up move to get back to her feet. "I could never do that. Kinda jealous." Reaching behind her the insurrectionist drew a knife (https://i.pinimg.com/originals/38/a6/c1/38a6c1062aafee4ae7172044f826e7a9.jpg). After a few flourishes she approached Michael. "That ain't happening again." Raising his right leg Michael stuck a nerve on the man's leg who was holding him. There was a long nerve that went up the leg, it was why soccer players wore shin guards. With a loud yell he let go of Michael. Reaching back he grabbed the man and threw him forward, the knife embedded in his chest. The woman didn't bat an eye she pulled the knife out and went back on the offensive. Swiping at Michael with the bloodied blade.
"I want your head!" She yelled at him.
"So do I!" Michael leaned back to avoid a swipe but it wasn't enough. It cut across his chest. The front of his shirt ripped and blood splattered the ground. On the next attack Michael moved in, blocked the forearm and grabbing the woman. She pushed against him, trying to jab the pointy end in his neck.
"Hey flyboy you ok with your dance partner over there!?" Booker yelled. He gun was pointed at the two but due to Michael's proximity he couldn't get a shot off without collateral.
With Booker now nearby Michael tried to pry the girl off so he could shoot her. But she figured it out as well and latched on refusing to let go while trying to stab him. "I'd appreciate someone cutting it!"
Booker looked over at Ashira. "Girl your man over here needs a new dance partner."
"I got this! Keep your head down princess! Or pop some more heads! Either works for me!" The two combatants stumbled over a car, landing in front of the group. Something hot erupted in his left side. "Where'd that transport come from!" Michael yelled to mask the pain.
"Stole it!" Harlow replied.
"Good job!" Michael and the woman were wrestling over the knife. The red dyed blade hovered over the girl's chest. She elbowed him in his side causing him to grunt in pain. With a yell he pushed the blade hard ending the fight. On shaky legs Michael stood and moved to the hover tour bus. Everyone was piled inside waiting on him. His left arm held his side and with his right he opened the door. "Sorry I'm late everyone I had a prior engagement." Michael plopped himself down, blood dripped down onto the seat, out his side and the cut on his chest. "Hey Harlow can we hit a drive-thru on the way home? Not fast food a pharmacy."
AngelDellaNotte
09-01-2021, 08:18 PM
“There is a pharmacy a couple blocks from here. It isn't a drive thru but they should have something there to patch you up.” Hikari said, still hugging the O'leran she still appeared to be terrified and the creature seemed to sense it. He was leaning into her rubbing his soft fur against her hands.
“Which way?” Harlow asked, with Hikari pointing. It only took a few minutes to get there, Harlow parked in the alleyway behind the store. They all were surprised not to have run into anymore insurgents though no one complained.
Booker had to shoot the back door open and use his strength to yank it free. Hikari not thinking started to just walk inside but the bodyguard grabbed her be the collar and pulled her back before closing the door. It was good that she did as a wave of buckshot slammed into the door. “Damnit Harold, it's Booker!” He shouted into the cracked door.
“You owe me a door private!” A old man called back.
Booker opened the door and stepped inside glad not to be shot at again. “Put it on my tab doc.” Booker said. He walked over to a older man (https://i.pinimg.com/564x/60/4a/ea/604aead2d71fdeea714b3e5054a3fd9c.jpg) standing there holding a shot gun. The hugged and patted each other on the shoulder.
“It is amazing your tab hasn't bankrupted me private.” Harold said, moving a stack of boxes in front of the door. “You are lucky Ida likes you.”
“I haven't been a private for years.” Booker said, helping Harold move the boxes before Harold lead them into a back room filled with what appeared to be overstock. Once there he started to talk with the older man. Ashira noticed that the two were close friends. Listening to them it appeared they had served together. Harold had been a medic when Booker was a new recruit. Judging by the way they talked they had pulled each other out of the fire many times.
Booker explained what they needed and before they knew it Michael was sitting there with his shirt off as Harold tended to his wounds. Ashira blushed at the sight of it and turned her back to him hoping no one noticed.
Ushima
09-01-2021, 11:59 PM
Harlow of course noticed. Almost like she had a sixth sense for dirty things. "Getting an eyeful of our flyboy eh?" She nudged the princess.
"Cramped in that ship of yours?" Booker joked.
"Its a tight fit. Hell I've gotten a peek when he's coming out of the shower." Harlow smirked as Michael grumbled at her. "Oh don't be like that. You should be proud! Bet you make all the ladies happy."
"I'm more worried about these other marks." Harold passed a hand over Michael's body. The numerous scars on his body. "How much punishment have you taken son?"
"As much as needed. Physical. Mental...emotional." Michael hung his head.
Lillian was quick to pick up on Michael's mood shifting. "The Lieutenant has saved us time and time again. He's a good man." Her eyes went to the tattoo on his chest, 705398-B. The Yoran prison tattoo. The knife wound was a little below that on his side. "Been through more than any of us could know."
"Alright lad hold still. I disinfected the would now I'll seal it up." Harold grabbed a strange gray, almost gun like looking device. Holding it over the wound on Michael's chest. Squeezing the trigger a green gel came out and was rubbed into the knife wound. Michael hissed loudly, stomping his foot and started rocking back and forth. "Sealing gel still stings after all these years. And this is the no sting version."
"Get your money back." Michael stood, wobbling a bit before steadying himself. "We need to get back to the unit. You guys gonna come with?"
"Got room in that ride of yours?" Harold asked.
After picking some supplies they piled into the vehicle and took off. Michael asked how Harlow and Lillian got here from the mountain. "Watch." Harlow smirked. The group approached the rail station. There was a large hovercraft sized hole in the wall Harlow drove through. The sides of the rail were angled allowing Harlow to easily drive down them and onto the track. "See? Easy."
"Lets just hope there's no traffic." Michael said. "Or we'll have a long time to say goodbye to each other."
Thankfully there were no trains running and once they reached their stop they were able to drive up and out of the station. But they were in for a shock as a small militia was waiting at their house. A few too close to his ship. "Oi! What the fuck is going on?"
Men were already approaching the craft and motioned for them to come up. "What is your business here?"
"That's my ship." Michael pointed. "What are you doing here?"
The lead security guard looked Michael up and down. "We're gathering forces for a push. We're commandeering that ship to send a team to retake the comm tower."
"That's funny. Doubt you could even start it." Michael crossed his arms, smirking.
Just as the guard was about to speak another man ran up, an engineer by the looks of it, seeming frustrated. "What do you mean you can't get it started?" The ship was selected for a black ops mission so it had a few extra security features. The guard captain turned back to Michael and in a move that surprised him, bowed. "Please sir. We need your help. Without the comm tower it will be hard to coordinate a counter offensive. That tattoo on your arm shows me you're a good pilot. Please help us save our citizens."
Michael's blood was on fire. He wanted to go. Wanted to jump in the ship and take the fight to the enemy again, just like old times. To be the hero. But he had a job. A terrible awful, wonderful job that will save lives at the cost of his broken heart. It wasn't just his call to make. He had three other lives he was responsible for. Turning to look at the women in his company, a fire in his eyes, he asked. "What do you guys think? Should I give them a ride before we head out?"
AngelDellaNotte
01-21-2022, 04:45 AM
Ashira listened as Michael talked with the militiamen, she could see how much he wanted to help. Sometimes she wondered if he truly lived for the fight. It wasn't something she was familiar with first hand but in the last few weeks she had seen the way Lillian lit up in the fight. Sure her face was hard as stone but there was that glint in her eyes. Ashira really didn't get it. Yes, their trip had been a whirlwind and a rush but Ashira would rather not go through it again.
She paused realizing everyone was looking at her to make the call. She thought back to their latest trip where she had tried to distract herself from moping with learning how to speak with an Arthurian accent. Then she glanced to Michael glad he was wearing his shirt again. Never before had she thought scars were sexy. She felt guilty that the city was in this mess because of her. The guerrillas were tearing the city apart to find her. Earlier she had spoken with a common accent but it wasn't the only one she studied. She turned to the head militiaman and put on her best Arthurian noblewoman accent. “We will take you within half a mile of the tower and let you off.” Ashira said. “We cannot partake in the battle to reclaim the tower but we help some.”
The militiaman looked from Michael to Ashira before he straightened his posture and stood attention. He looked nervous unlike he had before. Almost as if he were standing before a four star general. “Aye Lady we thank you for your aid. Might I know of the family I should give my thanks to?” He said.
“You may not.” Ashira said, turning away from him and walking to the ship. She didn't turn back but could hear the rustling of him giving a low bow. Ashira didn't stop instead walked to the cockpit. Behind her she could hear Harlow chuckle and then the others fell in behind her. Along the way Booker and Hikari took up residence the crew quarters while the militiamen stacked up in the cargo bay.
When they reached the cockpit there were still a couple engineers standing by the console trying to figure out how to start the ship. Harlow sat down in the copilot chair and rubbed the dash gently and seductively. “Boys you need to learn how to touch a lady. She needs the touch of a lover not a teenage boy groping around.” Harlow said, leaning in close to the console her lips mere inches away before she pulled back and turned to the engineers, “But a lady never likes to be gawked out and never kisses and tells. Out.” She stood and ushered them out shutting the door behind them leaving only Michael, Lillian, Ashira and her in the cockpit. She plopped back down into the copilot chair.
“What the hell was that?” Lillian asked, the moment the door shut as she looked to Ashira.
“Was my accent bad again?” Ashira said, dropping down in the navigator chair a downhearted look on her face.
“Bad? Hell no that was amazing. Why the hell didn't you use that when he arrived? A hundred times better than whatever the hell you tried to use before.” Harlow said.
“I didn't want to sound posh. We are trying to blend in not draw attention to ourselves. Which I have to admit we suck at.” Ashira said.
“You didn't want to sound posh? Just by the fact that you use the word posh means you are posh. Princess you couldn't not be posh, it doesn't matter if you believe in nurture versus nature you are screwed either way. You are posh.”
Ushima
01-21-2022, 07:41 PM
The militia captain bowed. "Thank you." Ashira walked off after refusing to give her name. So the captain looked to him. "And what about you lad? Can we at least get your name? Would like to know who to pin a medal on after this."
Call it vanity, wanting recognition for his work, but Michael answered. "Lieutenant Michael Coran sir." The two men shook hands.
"Coran?" The captain raised an eyebrow. "Any relation to the Planetary Defense Admiral Coran?"
"That'd be my pops." Michael answered with a gentle nod.
Scratching his beard the captain smiled. "No shit. Hey Watkins! Come 'ere!" Another militia man about as old as the captain approached. "Remember your C.O. back in the Navy days that you tell those stories about at the bar? Captain Coran?" The man, Watkins, nodded, gaze shifting over Michael. "Meet his baby boy."
Watkins broke out into a grin. "Well ain't this somethin'? Small galaxy. Tell me how's your pops doing?"
"Doing good sir. Back home. Probably eating dinner with ma about now." Michael shifted, grasping his wounded side. "How long did you serve with my father?"
"Four years, back in my service days. Good man. Never lead us astray. If we get through this I'll tell you some stories your pops probably wouldn't want you to hear." The two chuckled before both militia men left to finish their preparations.
"Admiral Jared Coran. Hero of the Kresta Blockade. Cold-blooded Cynthia. Savior of Lost Causes." Michael turned to see Booker staring at him, arms crossed and smirk on his face. "You have quite the pedigree there Devil."
"Big shoes to fill." Michael moved past Booker, patting his shoulder as he passed. "You and Hikari hunker down in the crew quarters. The beds double as escape pods." Booker nodded and went over to Hikari, taking the girl inside the ship. Michael did a walk around of the ship before entering through the back cargo hold. Men were taking their positions, checking their gear and weapons. Most had combat rifles (https://halo.wiki.gallery/images/thumb/b/b8/HINF_VK78Commando_Crop.png/1200px-HINF_VK78Commando_Crop.png). Two had shotguns (https://halo.wiki.gallery/images/thumb/5/55/HReach-M45TacticalShotgunProfile.png/1200px-HReach-M45TacticalShotgunProfile.png). One even had a rocket launcher (https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/titanfall/images/7/7d/ArcherHeavyRocket.png/revision/latest?cb=20140417165218). Clearly an incase of emergencies weapon. Inside the crew cabin he closed the door behind them.
"What a weirdo." An engineer muttered as he passed by them on their way to the cargo hold. He shot them a strange look back over his shoulder but pressed on. No explanation was needed, he guessed Harlow was being her weird self. But at least the flight deck was clear of onlookers now.
The door hissed open and Michael limped inside. No one paid him attention as he took his seat, they were discussing Ashira's performance. Which admittedly to him was pretty on point. "Feeling ok there champ?" Harlow asked him as he pressed buttons for the startup sequence.
"I'm good." An obvious lie as all three women saw him walk in holding his side, which still hurt. Pain was fading but not fast enough. His fingers hovered over the engine start button. But he didn't press it. Instead he turned on the intercoms for the ship. Leaning forward he rested his elbows on his knees. His hands came together, his right over his closed left fist. Michael lowered his head, resting his forehead against his hands. "I am right hand of the King, I am the hammer, the instrument of His will, the mail about His fist, the tip of His spear, the edge of His sword, the shield on His arm, the flight of His arrows. For his honor we go forth to protect those who cannot." Michael sucked in a breath. "Our blades hunger!" An echo came from the back of the ship as well as through the comms as the men in the back replied to Michael's cry.
"What was that?" Lillian asked.
"Just something some of us do." Michael replied, hitting the starter and the launch thrusters burst to life. The ship rocked as it slowly started rising. "We have lift. Everyone strap in." Hitting more buttons on the screen Michael input the coordinates for the tower. "And a half mile out. Ok we're set. Drop these boys off. Reunite our other guests with the band and then next stop upper atmosphere. Savy?"
"Depends. Can you do that without getting injured again?" Harlow joked. Michael flipped her his middle finger. "I don't know what that means but if you do Momma will kiss it better."
"Please don't distract the pilot." Lillian scolded.
"Its alright." Michael turned around to look at the three. "I am a bit of a momma's boy." He winked before facing forward again.
It got a laugh out of Harlow. "You're learning! I've trained you well my apprentice."
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