021

A week later …

Duncan: *He poked his head into the living room Mac sat in!* Hey Mac. The captain wanted me to check on you. How are you feeling?

Duncan: *He grinned!* You know she means well. Do you want something to eat or drink? *He asked as he walked inside, followed closely by Tiny.*

Cassius: Yeah, I can see Aaron’s face when we start chucking grenades at him. *Cassius, oddly enough, had not been his usually bothersome self. He was still pretty tired and stiff… but that didn’t stop him from giving everyone long meaningful glares and occasionally calling them assholes.*

Brennen: Still pretty hard to believe that we just get Aaron out and we’ll be all back together. *He snickered.* It’s almost scary.

Dion: …which means we better get him a pipe and some tobacco to make up for it. *Dion cast a grin at Brennen.* Who do you think he’s going to hit first?

Brennen: I dunno. It’d be our luck that his hand still moves at light speed. *He grinned back at Dion.*

Cassius: You’re about to have a numb arm again, sister. *Growled Cassius. But that ended quickly when he pointed across the street.* That’s Holland’s place. He’s always got some good stuff. …A little on the illegal side, but ain’t nothing better when you’re dealing with a space witch.

Brennen: Now, now, kids, let’s play nice. *He said with a grin.* Haha. Last time I checked there weren’t any cops for miles around to spy on our illegal activities. *He leaned forward and covered his mouth as if sharing a secret.*

Brennen: Nah. She just chased them all away from her territory, which seems to be everywhere nowadays. They don’t get involved because she killed the last cops who did.

Dion: And I pity the poor fools that do try and deal with her. Morgan’s no joke, even for us. *Dion lead the way across the street and to the shop. Inside was just like any other junk and weapons place!*

Brennen: *He chuckled softly!* Guess we have Mac to thank for that.

Cassius: *Cassius was waiting at the counter, about to ring that damned bell for Holland when he turned around with another glare!* After we told him NOT to. Don’t forget that.

DING! Someone came out from the back, but it was Mr. Holland! He eyed them all curiously before clearing his throat to get their attention. “What can I do for ya?”

*wasn’t

Cassius: *He glared at the guy… After a moment, Cassius shrugged his shoulder.* We need one of Holland’s… specials. Where is the old man?

Brennen: *He grinned.* Maybe we taught him too well. *He remarked, glancing at Dion.*

“He’s out on vacation. Come on in the back and I’ll see what we’ve got.” replied the guy, eying them all curiously. He turned around to lead the way in to the back room.

Brennen: He can kick ass just fine when he has a mind to. His luck just stinks from time to time.

Cassius: Quit talking about that sister stealer and come on. *Snorted Cassius, following the guy in the back.*

Dion: *Dion was coughing back a laugh as he followed too. The went down a hallway before reaching a pretty huge store room in the back. Here there were lots of crates, barrels, boxes. Most of them were opened so you could see inside.* This isn’t bad. Nice pick, Cassie.

Brennen: *He stuck his tongue out at Bronwen and shot a glare at Dion before he followed them!*

The guy motioned a hand around. “Everything is ready to be closed up and loaded. I’ll let you make your selections and return in a moment.” He left the room, closing the door behind him!

Cassius: Alright. Bronwen wants big shiny explosives. So who has a more practical shopping list. *He snatched a timer bomb out of Bronwen’s hands when she picked one up.*

Dion: Armor would be nice. Like hell I’m going to get shot again and have Madam Hessing firing darts at me. *Dion knelt down next to a crate in the back to dig through it’s contents.*

Hiiiiiiisss~! The air vents came on. The heating system most likly, as it was pumping in some war air in to the back room. It smelled faintly of burned bachenstrudels, but it was hardly worth noticing.

Brennen: We could have the galaxy’s entire supply of explosives and it wouldn’t be enough, Brownie. Maybe light and smoke grenades to give us some cover. *He started searching in another crate.*

After a few moments the heat went off. Not long afterwards the guy returned. “I hope everything looks square. If you don’t mind, what will you be needing these supplies for?”

Dion: Yeah, I don’t want her to worry. *That dealer returned, and Dion shrugged his shoulders.* We’re going on a rescue mission. So we’re going to need the best you’ve got.

Brennen: *Was the air getting warmer? He wiped the sweat off his brow with the back of his hand.* Yeah, a rescue mission where I don’t end up wearing a bra and a thong to please my cross-dressing brother.

Cassius: Well excuse me if I LIKE wearing women’s clothing sometimes. It’s hella kinky.

Brennen: Reminds me of the time Heather suggested we try something new. My thighs were chafed for a week after that, thanks to that thong. But at least she didn’t stick me in a box or something. *He shuddered.* I hate small spaces.

The guy raised a curious eyebrow as he stopped next to Bronwen, offering her up another gun to take a look at. “Luckily a good gun will take care of most your fears.”

Dion: For mine, I’m sure. I was afraid I might hit poor Madam Hessing when she came at me with that medkit… Everytime I think about nurses and doctors, I end up with nightmares.

Cassius: Fucking shit, Bronwen! I didn’t try to drown you! I was teaching you how to swim. It’s not my damned fault you’re a wussy girl. Now if you want a REAL fear, that little demon Duncan keeps cuddling with could swallow any one of us whole while we’re sleeping! You’d be eaten alive by acid!

Brennen: At least you guys don’t have nightmares about bugs crawling all over you, trying to eat you alive. *He muttered under his breath, rubbing his arms as he said that.*

Cassius: …Bugs, Brennen? Really? You can squash ’em. try squashing that ill-named furball and see what happens.

Dion: The same man that likes dressing in drag. *Dion said with a laugh!* I think we got off the subject. Did we decide what we’re taking?

Brennen: That’s because they’re so many of them! They get everywhere!

Cassius: *Cassius snorted!* Aye. We’re going to need the laser cannon, grenades, your stupid baby armor, and spare ammunition charges.

The guy nodded with a grin! “I’ll get your cargo list ready right away and have it sent to your ship.” and scooted out.

Brennen: Phew. Good, we’re finally done. I was beginning to wonder if we’d be here forever.

Cassius: If I heard one more word about MacBeth… *He pointed a threatening finger at Bronwen!* I might just drown you for real!

Brennen: Quit it already, Cassius. *He warned.*

Dion: *Dion gave a warning frown at Cassius.* Let’s get going then. We shouldn’t be lingering around here for too long.

Speaking of Tiny, it had decided Mac’s chest would make a comfortable and warm bed as the first mate reclined on the seat!

Cassius: *grumbling, Cassius was following too. Only to stop in the front for a moment to sign the papers and pay for their purchase…*

Duncan: *He was checking the ship’s systems, engines, sensors, etc. Everything seemed fine and dandy!*

Duncan: *He looked up and waved!* Hey, Captain! Welcome back!

Tiny lifted its head and looked at Bronwen! Then it yawned and put its head back down to take its nap!

Brennen: *He poked his head inside!* Seen anyone like what?

Brennen: *He grinned!* Did it ever. Here, it was, a classy brothel. And then this vision of loveliness decided to come by and check on how we were liking things.

Brennen: *He blinked, as if suddenly realizing where he was! He grinned sheepishly!* Uh, I guess?

Dion: Didn’t happen that way for Ma and Fa. *Said Dion, bringing in one of the guns for MacBeth to take a look at.* Fa said he ran in to her a dozen times while he was chasing after other women.

Brennen: *He downed his drink!* Okay. So … what are we talking about again? *His mind was awfully distracted!*

Brennen: *He blinked!* ‘Course not … *He frowned a bit as he stared into his mug. Strange … He never got drunk this early … Ah well. Maybe they were making tougher stuff nowadays!*

Cassius: Shit, can we stop talking about women? For once I want to concentrate on booze and killing people.

Duncan: *He had had to leave Tiny behind with Mac but the captain had said it’d be good for him to get out! He was enjoying these crispy chips and the hot dip that came with them!*

Dion: *Dion was just as distracted… but Cassius not wanting to talk about women did make him raise his eyebrow!* …Why have you been asking all of these questions, Brownie?

Brennen: *He blinked and stared at Cassius!* Cassie and Aaron … stick to one woman? That would be the day. *He lifted his empty mug at the passing waitress!* Refill!

Cassius: *Cassius snorted!* You start acting like Morgan, I’ll be more than happy to shoot you between the eyes and put you out of our misery. *He sure didn’t deny Brennen’s comment. One woman! HA!*

Duncan: *MUNCH! MUNCH! These things were delicious!*

Speaking of Morgan, a few of her goons pushed their way into the same bar they were at and grabbed themselves a table!

Dion: …Are you jealous, Brownie? You know we’re not just going to run off and forget you once we’re married. And I highly doubt Duncan or MacBeth will either. *Why was it so easy to imagine himself marrying Ceri?*

Duncan: *He blinked at the talk of him and marriage! It wasn’t quite so easy for him to picture being wed! Tying the knot … The old ball and chain … He gulped!*

Cassius: *Cassius cleared his throat, nudging Dion as he tilted his head towards the riff-raff across the bar.* We might want to pick a new place. Unless you’re up for a good fight.

The goons were getting pretty loud and acting like jerks! Behind the goons, a blonde-haired woman in a black uniform complete with skirt and boots went to the bar. She had a few words with the owner, slipped him something, and then left. When she turned and brushed past the Shadowstar table, she didn’t even glance up but she looked so familiar … But there was no way that could be Ceri?!

Brennen: May I remind you that we need every ounce of strength …? We can’t be wasting it on goons. *He replied.*

Dion: *Dion watched Bronwen leave with a frown.* I think Bronwen is upset about something. She’s acting a litt- *He stopped suddenly, giving a blink! Impossible. Dion looked at his beer. But she…* I’ve got to go. *He was up and out of his chair quick!*

Cassius: …Yeah Bronwen is acting weird. *Cassius responded… but franky didn’t care where Dion was off too. He had a beer to drink!* Right, right. Save the ass beatings for later. Not that ~I~ am the asshole that through out his back just falling over.

Duncan: *He blinked! This was proving to be one strange night! First the captain acts strange and then Dion leaves real quick!* Uh … I think I’ll go back with the captain. *He said as he stood and followed after her.*

Brennen: Haha. Very funny. *He muttered and downed his refill! He put his mug down and went to pay the owner! He overheard the owner telling a worker that the woman who had just left had paid for Morgan’s men, their drinks and any damage they might do!*

It was easy to spot the woman! She wasn’t in any hurry as she stood right outside the bar for a moment to straighten her clothes and headed for the ship bay! The black uniform was plain to see now! It was a uniform worn by someone working for Morgan!

Dion: *Ceri wouldn’t be in a place like this. But there was just something about the way she walked. Dion kept on following, at a safe distance. He was going to figure this one out real quick.*

The woman moved through the crowd and didn’t take a real long look at the place around her which meant she knew where she was going! She did glance from side to side as if keeping an eye out for something! She walked through the thick crowd of people and into the ship bay! The ship she was headed for was a carrier, a large ship Morgan used to carry slaves and prisoners!

Dion: *Dion slid out of sight when he needed to, and wasn’t surprised when they arrived at one of Morgan’s ships. This definetly could not be Ceri. That was enough proof for him, he was turning around to head back!*

“Look what we got here,” someone announced! “Looks like someone trying to follow Miss Conway!” another guy said! And then they clobbered him a good one!

Duncan: *He walked into the ship and looked around! There was no sign of the captain or Mac but they had to be here somewhere! He did find Tiny curled up on the seat!* Hey, Tiny. How’s it going?

Dion: Shi- *THUNK! He was out good!*

“Greeoww! Greeoww!” growled Tiny after it had lifted its head and stretched!

The men were snickering as they leaned over him. “What do we do with ‘im?” one guy asked. “We throw ‘im in. Boss will know what to do with ‘im.” Someone grabbed his ankles. Someone else grabbed his arms. “Holy shit, do you think this is one o’ ’em?” asked the first. “Those Shadowstar bastards?” asked the second. “Miss Conway will know,” he replied when his pal nodded. Then they hauled him into the ship.

Brennen: Have fun, Cassius. *He said as he waved and walked past. He was going back to the ship to find out why Bronwen was acting so crazy!*

Cassius: *Cassius saluted Brennen with his glass! He was still debating starting a fight!*

Duncan: *With Tiny in his arms, he started looking for Mac and the captain! He heard voices in the kitchen but when he saw it was the captain and Mac, he sneaked away!*

Dion: *Dion woke up somewhere… he really didn’t want to be! He was cursing under his breath as he sat up and rubbed his head. …Damnit, he didn’t have a com link on him either. This was great.*

Someone passing by stopped by his cell! He sneered down at him! “We’ll get to you in a minute, buddy. Just you wait.” Then he was chuckling to himself as he threw something at Dion through the bars! It was a card marked “Shadowstar?”

Duncan: *He rubbed Tiny’s head!* I don’t think I should get into that one. *He told Tiny.* Hey, you can look for gatorbats while you’re up.

“Greeoww! Greeoww!” Tiny growled, stretching when Duncan put it down on the floor! It sniffed the floor and started moving toward the cargo bay.

Dion: *Nice, they gave you I.D. Cards? Where was a pen when you needed one. Dion got to his feet to peer out from the bars! This ship shouldn’t be TOO hard to escape.*

Brennen: *He was just getting into the ship when a streak of white flew past him!* Whoa. *He looked up to see Duncan coming toward him!* … Tiny?

Duncan: *He grinned and nodded.* Yeah, I asked it to go looking for gatorbats. Captain hates those. Oh, Captain and Mac are in the kitchen if you want them. *He said before he trotted off!*

It wasn’t long before Dion heard voices! An armed man came by and opened the cell! He had the gun aimed securely at Dion’s chest! It looked like he was about to shoot him when … “Stand down and leave us,” someone from behind the guard ordered. The guard glanced over his shoulder. “But–!” he started. “Stand down and leave us,” the voice repeated sternly. “If I have any problems with this one, I will call.” “Yes, ma’am,” the guard sighed. He gave Dion a dark glare before he marched off. That left Dion with the woman from earlier who stepped into the cell and promptly locked it behind her! She had a small computer in her hand. “You must be the Shadowstar who was …” She looked up and stared at him hard. “Following me …” Her next words were a whisper!

Ceri: … Dion …?

Dion: *Dion was preparing for one of those uncomfortable interrogations. They tended to come with a good fight and some shocksticks… What he didn’t expect was Ceri’s voice, nor to have her standing right there in front of him on the other side of those bars! The surprise on his face quickly turned to a frown.* …You work for Morgan?

Brennen: *He gave Duncan a quick salute and watched him disappear! He smiled a bit. Leave it up to Duncan to go and think of something to keep him and Tiny occupied!*

Ceri: *She hugged the computer to her chest and looked ashamed!* … It isn’t what you think. *She glanced around and stepped closer.* But … You’re a Shadowstar …? *She squinted at him.* The Wolf …

Duncan: *Leave it up to Tiny to sniff those things out! It had a real good nose as it led the way into the dark corners of the cargo bay! But to be on the safe side, he stayed out in the hall and let Tiny handle things on its own!*

Dion: That’s going to take a lot of explaining. *Dion said curtly. He was mad. REALLY mad. It wasn’t like he hadn’t had a secret too.. But MORGAN?* I’m Dion Shadowstar, yeah. I think you can guess who my brothers and sister are.

Ceri: *She shouldn’t be telling him what she was about to! She really shouldn’t and yet … Even to Dion, it was clear her heart was breaking! She swallowed hard!* I’m working for Morgan to get evidence on her. *She finally answered.* My family thinks I’m a businesswoman for some company far away. I’m really … I’m really an undercover police detective. *She pressed a few buttons in her computer where a compartment opened. She handed him something. It was a genuine police badge.*

Dion: *…That was the last thing Dion had ever expected to hear out of her! He wasn’t sure if he was relieved, elated, angry or… just plain worried! He handed the badge back to her quick.* Do you have any idea just how dangerous what you’re doing is? If anyone finds out, you will be lucky if they just kill you on the spot!

Ceri: *She quickly slipped the badge back into the computer. She glanced away from his face.* I know. *When she spoke next, her voice was firmer, more confident.* But that’s why I’m getting you out of here. Hand me the card they gave you.

Dion: *He held out the card for her to take, but grabbed her arm.* Ceri. You’ve got to leave here with me.

Ceri: *She looked up at him.* There’s no way I can leave with you without arousing suspicion. And I need to act fast before someone tells her they captured you.

Dion: I mean leave this nonsense all together. It’s not safe snooping around like this. …I don’t want to see you get hurt.

Ceri: *She swallowed!* I’m sorry, Dion … *She stepped away, still holding the card and turned to the door! If only so she didn’t see the look on Dion’s face!* Guard!

The guard quickly returned! “Yes, ma’am!”

Ceri: *She held up the card and threw it at him!* A Shadowstar?! Just because someone looks like one doesn’t mean he is! You’re wasting our boss’ time bringing me strays you find in the street!

The guard blinked! “But ma’am! The men who brought him said–!”

Ceri: I don’t care. Kick him out and if you bother me one more time with a mistake, Morgan will have your head! *And then she stalked out!*

The guard growled and glared at Dion! This was a bunch of croc! But orders were orders! He opened the cell and grabbed Dion by the collar of his shirt! “Come on then!” He marched him out of the ship and then threw him out! “And stay out, you bum!” he growled before disappearing inside!

Dion: *Dion almost turned around and tried marching back after Ceri, but…. In his head he was cursing up a storm! He stomped back to their own ship. Mad as hell!*

Duncan: *He was pacing the hall, listening to sounds of Tiny and gatorbats! He was beginning to regret not telling Tiny to not damage anything!*

Brennen: *He was in his room, lying down and taking a nap! He figured he might as well take his own advice!*

Cassius: *Cassius was finally stumbling his way back when he nearly ran in to Dion on the way up the ramp!* Heeey, little brother. What has you lookin’ pissier than a bitch in heat?

Dion: I found out where Ceri works. *He stomped inside past Cassius… looking for Brennen! If you need to rant, you talk to Brennen.* BREE. *He kicked the man’s bed!*

Cassius: Say what now…? *Whatever it was, it was juicy gossip. Espcially since nothing ever pissed of Dion. Cassius followed to see what the big deal was.* What’s the matter now? She a hooker too? Man… you guys have some fucked up taste…

Brennen: *Zzz … Heather … Zzz… Chocolate cake … Zzzz … BREE. And then a jolt that made his entire body rock! He sat up!* Ow! I’m up, I’m up! *He rubbed his head and squinted!* Dion! Cassius! What the hell is wrong with you two … *His voice trailed off when he saw the look on Dion’s face.* Dion, stay. Cassius, get the fuck out.

Cassius: Hell No! I want to hear this shit! Hey – wait, damnit, DION. *There wasn’t any time to argue, Cassius was shoved out of the room fairly violently and the door slammed in his face.* …. Fuckers.

Brennen: *He sat on the edge of his bed and ran his fingers through his hair.* Okay, D. Spill.

Dion: *Dion leaned an arm against the door as he rubbed his face.* Ceri works for Morgan. Don’t – *He held up a hand!* Not for real. She’s an undercover cop, Bree. They have a women working undercover.

Brennen: *He was speechless! He rubbed his chin and took a deep breath.* A cop. I’ll be damned. *He was thoughtful for a moment.* But that makes the most sense … How the hell did you find out where she worked?

Dion: I thought I saw her at the bar… so I followed. I…er. *He coughed.* Got myself captured. She came to check on the prisoner, and you can guess how that went… She had me thrown out.

Brennen: *He blinked!* You WHAT?! *He sighed, rubbed his temple!* Okay, so, focusing on what’s important … Now that you know what Ceri does, what are you going to do about it?

Dion: Make her stop. I think we can hijack that ship and then we’ll kidnap her. *Dion looked completely serious.*

Brennen: *He burst out laughing when he heard that! He stood and clapped Dion on the shoulder!* Haha … You know for a moment, I thought you were … *He looked at Dion’s face and stopped laughing! He blinked.* Shit, you’re dead serious about this. Dion, we can’t just go hijack a ship and kidnap a woman. We still have to get Aaron out of there and you have no idea of knowing if Ceri found whatever the hell she was looking for.

Dion: If she finds what she’s after, she’s going to get herself killed in the process. I seriously think we could hop over there and grab her. *…He sighed and dropped his head.* All right… maybe not. Damnit… I wish I had known. We’re going to be halfway across the galaxy. If something happens to her…

Brennen: *He sighed.* She is a grown woman … I’ll tell you what. Let’s ask Cassius to put something together for her. A comm link or something. Something she can at least use in case she’s in trouble.

Dion: I guess that is all I can do for now. …IF I let her leave next time I see her.

Brennen: *He patted Dion on the shoulder.* It’d work out. *He poked his head outside.* Cassius! I need you to do something.

Cassius: *Of course Cassius was still there. He was trying to listen in, but fuck if this wasn’t a good ship.* NOW you let Cassius in? I see how it is.

Brennen: We need a special comm link, one strong enough to reach across the galaxy. Can you make one?

Cassius: Yeah. What’s it for? *He eyed Brennen and Dion.* For Ceri? …. IS she a hooker?

Brennen: *He was giving that “Cassius, you’re getting out of line” look!* All you need to know is that we need one as soon as possible.

Cassius: *He snorted.* Whatever. You both owe me some sweetass booze, though. *Scratching his head, he stomped off for his room to grab some of his tools!*

Dion: We’ll have to stop by the Hessings’ again. *He said once Cassius was out of sight.* I think she’ll go there herself so we can talk.

Brennen: *He studied Dion.* You sure about this …? About everything? Like your commitment to her?

Brennen: *He looked doubtful.* I don’t know, D. It sounds like a long shot for her to be at the Hessings place.

Duncan: *He decided this was probably a good time to check on Tiny! He went over to the door of the cargo bay and slowly opened it!* … Tiny?

Dion: Maybe so… But I figure if she’s not there, at least Ma Hessing can figure something out. Brownie gets all worked up about weird things, but she’s not usually wrong…

Brennen: *He grinned a bit.* Yeah, like the time she said Old Woman Pathburg was a conniving witch. Then it turned out she really did kill her husband for all that money.

Tiny was sitting right there in front of the door, licking its paw! Its stomach wasn’t bulging but it seemed content!

Duncan: I sure hope you ate gatorbats and vermin and nothing the captain would make a fuss over. *He remarked, eying Tiny.*

Dion: Although a Toru princess I find hard to believe. That’d make Duncan a prince. *He cast an amused grin!*

Brennen: *He laughed and patted Dion on the shoulder!* Thinking of the one Fa almost ran off with?

Dion: Tried to run off with. Ma said he was trying to pick her up in the bar and he got shot down so hard his butt was sizzling for a week.

Brennen: *He grinned!* If Duncan’s mother turns out to be one, then boy will we have our hands full. *He ruffled Dion’s hair.* Why don’t you go get a drink or take a nap or something? Get out. It’d do you some good.

Dion: *His HAIR! Dion cast Brennen a light frown as he brushed his hair back in to place.* I guess I could use a nap. …Figure out what I’ll do about Ceri before we go after Aaron. *What he’ll “do” meaning how he plans to kidnap her and get her off Morgan’s ships. Didn’t Bronwen say she had some crazy basket…? *

Cassius: *And that is when Cassius walked in to the kitchen still tinkering with that device, and stopped. Scowling. They were sitting and smirking… inappropriately! … Wait, everytime he gets pissed off they do something evil. Maybe a bit of reverse psychology! Yeah! …So Cassius walked on by and IGNORED what they were doing!* Is there any of those Bogger meat sticks, or did the demon eat them all?

Brennen: *He gave him a sideways glance! He was up to something! He was going to impart some words of advice, some pearls of wisdom but … this was Dion and he’d had enough experience dealing with the opposite gender!* Man, you really are serious about this one. I’m off for some cake! *And then he was headed for the kitchen!*

Cassius: Fuck if I know. Some comlink thing for Brennen and Dion. Likly for whatever big secret about Ceri neither of the fuckers want to tell me. *Cassius disappeared behind the counter, rummaging around. Occasionally he’d take a peek to see what they were doing.*

Brennen: *He poked his head into the kitchen a few minutes later!* Do we have anymore of Madame Hessings’ pies or cakes?

Brennen: *He frowned.* Man, no respect. Sorry. Not for me to say. *He remarked as he started rummaging through the food, too!*

Cassius: *Cassius bitback his comment about her looking more like an unpaid whore!* Sounds to me like there’s a whole spying on Ceri thing… Dion find out the pretty little chit isn’t so awesome? *He found those Bogger meat sticks and leaned against the counter as he chewed.*

Brennen: *He lifted his head to level Cassius with a glare.* What won’t be so awesome is my standing up to beat the shit out of you, Cassius.

Cassius: *Cassius lift his hands in silent compliance. So it was pretty big if Brennen was all up and defensive of Dion’s new girlfriend. Whatever. He could do without thinking about her or that hippo sister!* Whatever, whatever. Just concerned for the well being of my younger siblings and all. You know… ones hooking up when they ought not to be. *He pointed a thumb over his shoulder at Bronwen and MacBeth!*

Cassius: *COUGH! Cassius choked on the piece he was chewing, banging on his chest as he started coughing! … God damnit…!*

Cassius: … *COUGH! Swallow! Cassius got himself a glass of water and cleared his throat.* Ahem… woo.. Ha. ha. Got me good that time. You guys… such a great team!

Brennen: *Meanwhile he was disappointed to see that there were no more desserts!* No respect. *He sighed.* Ah well. I guess I’ll go back to sleep then and dream about Madame Hessings’ wonderful sweets.

Cassius: …You’re both making me sick. *Cassius muttered around his glass of water… he better head this off!* I know… ~I’ll~ make dinner! So you two can just sit there and do whatever the fuck you’re doing.

Cassius: *He was reaching for some pots and pans, grumbling about Tiny when he caught that. There was a loud CLATTER as he dropped one.* …You’re going to sing again?

Cassius: *All night huh… He’s faced worse challenges than this! There was a loud CHOP as Cassius cut in to a hunk of meat with a cleaver… A cleaver he was imagining himself lodging in to MacBeth’s brain!* I’d like to hear something romantic myself. What, with all those lovey dovey bullshit going around.

Cassius: *CHOPCHOPchop.. chop… chop… Cassius made quite the disgusted face as his chopping slowed. What the fuck was that shit? He didn’t teach him any GIRLY songs like that! He cast a frown at them. The shit? Was she falling for that crap? Stupid sister…!* What a … nice… song… *That last word growled out!*

Cassius: *Cassius was making faces, mimicing the both of them… But so far his restraint was holding out! He was going to turn this around! …somehow.*

Cassius: *Now.. Cassius was pretty sure that last song was bullshitting, but this one, he very nearly threw that cleaver across the room! Wait… POISON! Ha ha! He should poison dinner! …No, that’s too much… Maybe he’ll break MacBeth’s legs and stuff Bronwen in that damned basket.* … Heh, heh, heh…. *Now Cassius was grinning quick wickedly!*

Cassius: *SHINK! Fuck..! He almost caught his whole hand that time! Fucking Bronwen! DO IT! Double dare! Do it and watch him fling fifty knives across the room! …Wait. Now, Cassius. That’s what they want. Fling a knife and MacBeth will get all uppity about saving his ‘captain!’ SNORT!* Ha, ha… Like to see your try and get a kiss on him. Turns tail and runs from the hottest women in the galaxy.

Cassius: *She did WHAT? Cassius was lifting up that cleaver and nearly threw it! …but he caught his own hand and forced it down. They were bullshitting him! Clever sonsofbitches! CHOPCHOPCHOPCHOP.* Aye, right woman makes a difference, doesn’t it! *CHOPCHOP!*

Cassius: *The brat isn’t going to do it, she’s a damned pru-CLANG! Cassius dropped his cleaver… and his jaw! For once shocked in dumbfounded staring!*

Cassius: *…Cassius was pushing up his sleeves as he picked that cleaver back up. …And set it on the counter. If looks alone could kill, the whole ship would be dead! He was so mad, he couldn’t even scream the millions of really large cursewords he had going through his head! …Oh no, he was going to COOK THE HELL out of dinner! And then…. DEATH.*

Cassius: Excuse me if having a couple of morons making out in the kitchen is ruining my g’damned concentration! *He snarled… But he reminded himself that his awesome plan was foolproof! Brennen was napping, Dion was missing… and MacBeth couldn’t chase him down! He smirked around.* It’s almost ready. Maybe you should get Duncan, Brownie.

Duncan: *He was scratching Tiny’s stomach as it lay on its back in his lap! They were on the bridge, just keeping an eye on everything!*

Brennen: *He was lying in bed in his room, writing a letter back to Heather! One of the letters he’d found in that package of hers lay beside his head on the pillow! He couldn’t wait to see her again!*

Cassius: *That was the staw that broke the camels back. …Cassius turned off the heat, dusted off his hands… And charged around the counter like an angry bull! He made sure to clamp a hand over her mouth before she went cursing at him and was hauling her out of the room kicking and growling like a little beast!* You ASKED for it! Let’s see where I’m going to stash you while I break off your boyfriends toes and feed them to him!

Cassius: *DAMN. Suspicious sonofabitch. ..wait a second… Cassius made sure to swing Bronwen around and use her as a shield!* This is brother-sister business, you just wait your turn! I wasn’t going to stash her in a damned box if that’s what you’re about. Learned that lesson last time. *Cassius said with a smirk.*

Cassius: …You have to be kidding. Are we summoning the furball? *Cassius almost looked worried… They always pulled out this crazy shit on him!*

Cassius: … You’re bullshitting me. Cassius said with a snort! The man was injured and he wasn’t going to hurt his stupidass bigmouthed captain. Cassius hoisted her up again… to back up in to the kitchen! He could barricade him out for days! They had all the food in there!*

“Greeowwww!!” came that familiar growl from behind Cassius!

Cassius: *Shit! He was summoning up the little demon! Cassius turned around quick with Bronwen still as a shield! Tiny wasn’t going to eat her too!* …I wasn’t DOING anything, fur for brains!

Tiny had shifted from its smaller form to its larger form and now sat on the floor, regarding Cassius with that “Oh, please” look on its face!

Duncan: *He ran and skidded to a stop in front of the kitchen!* There you are, Tiny! I was wondering where you– *He blinked and pointed.* Cassius, what are you doing with the captain?

Cassius: …Hell no! Your fucking mate and ball of furry evil intimidated me the last few times, THIS time Cassius gets his revenge! *…Quick! Something for revenge, just so he can at least have SOME satisfaction!* … Cutting her hair! *He whipped out one of those knives from his belt!*

Cassius: YES. Let’s see you find a bald captain attrac-SHIT! *Cassius dropped her quick, stumbling out of the way of gunfire! She popped a hole in his shoe!* G’damnit, woman! Put that gun away!

When Shadowstar shot at Cassius’ foot, Tiny went from large form to small and launched itself at Cassius’ face, claws flashing out to rake across his face!

Cassius: *DUCK! DODGE! CURSE! First he was dodging shots, now he was dodging tiny! Cassius weaved around everyone and was off like a rocket for his room!*

Brennen: *He came running out, passing by Cassius and stopped in front of the kitchen! He had to catch his breath!* Okay. Now what the hell happened?

Brennen: *He lowered his head and sighed!* He never learns …

Nearly a week later, they arrived at the Hessing farm!

Duncan: *He stepped out and stretched with Tiny on his shoulders!* Man, it’s good to be out and about. Right, Tiny?

“Greeoww! Greeowww!” the little furball replied, sitting on one of his shoulders!

Dion: *Dion was the ship in a heartbeat, a mission on his mind! If he played his cards right, he wouldn’t have to give Ceri the comlink!*

Dion: *off the ship!

Ma Hessing: *She looked up as Dion burst through the back door! She was making some tea!* Oh, Dion. Welcome. Would you like some tea or coffee?

Dion: Er… No, I am fine, thank you. Have you seen Ceri lately?

Brennen: *He walked out behind them, hands clasped behind his head!* Maybe now Mac can learn some of Madame Hessing’s recipes!

Cassius: *Cassius was playing it smart. He stayed on the damned ship. Let’s see Betty try and catch him here!*

Ceri: … Dion … *She was standing in the doorway that led further into the house like a deer caught in the headlights.* I’m sorry, Ma Hessing. I–I have to leave. *Then she was turning and running back the way she’d come!*

Dion: *…Wise to his game plan! Dion took off after her, with a great deal of speed! He was in top form by now thanks to good care and decent food!*

Ma Hessing: *She blinked.* Ceri? *She watched Dion bolt after her and sighed softly, shaking her head. Then she turned to find Duncan on the back porch!* Hey there, sweetie. Come on in. You too, Tiny.

Ceri: *She was headed off of the Hessing property! But she figured she’d be safe hiding behind the small old barn the Hessings no longer used. She closed her eyes and wet her lips. When she opened them, she didn’t see or hear Dion. She took a step away from the barn, ready to bolt for her mother’s home–even if it was a couple of miles away.*

Duncan: *He smiled and kisses his mother on the cheek.* Hello, Ma. Coffee and tea. Do you have company over?

Ma Hessing: Ceri was here a moment ago but she ran off. Dion after her. But Betty is still here. *She reached up to scratch Tiny between the ears.*

Dion: *The woman was fast…! It was good he had his strength back! He reached the barn and didn’t see any movement. She had to be hiding. Dion ducked low to the ground, tip toeing quietly around the side for an ambush!*

Brennen: *He looked down at his belly and patted it!* It’s not fat! It’s muscle!

Ceri: *She turned around but didn’t see Dion. Her heart was beating so fast, she had to put a hand over it! But it wasn’t long before she had to run her fingers through her hair to brush it back and clasp her hands together against her chest like she always did when she was nervous! She was so busy keeping an eye and an ear out for Dion, she didn’t even realize she was walking backwards toward him!*

Betty: Here, Ma Hessing. *She walked in, carrying a large basket of eggs! All of them were big but some were pure white, others were dark purple with yellow spots, a few were dark green with white stripes!* I got the eggs just like you wanted.

Dion: *Sneak, sneak… He flexed his fingers before he pounce! Dion lift her up quick to throw over his shoulder!* I don’t think you’ve had a tour of our ship yet, Ceri! I was thinking Bronwen needs a lady around and since you need to get out of Morgan’s employment anyway…

Ma Hessing: Ah, thank you, Betty. *She took the eggs from Betty to place on the counter!* Pa’s chickens can be so sensitive sometimes. Must be old age.

Ceri: DION! *She shrieked, struggling to get off his shoulder! If she could only get a firm hold on something, she would stand a better chance of getting free!* Dion, put me down! What do you think you’re doing?!

Brennen: *He sighed softly.* You’d think a guy could get a little more slack after having to go without treats for so long. *He muttered under his breath as he followed them to the Hessings’ home.*

Dion: *Dion made sure to give a wiiiide birth of anything she could grab!* Saving your life is what I’m doing. Not even a Shadowstar is fool enough to try long term undercover work under Morgan’s command. …And since you won’t listen to reason, then I’m going to handle it.

Ceri: *She liked to think of herself as a patient person but in this case, her patience was wearing thin!* Dion, kidnapping me won’t solve anything! … Don’t make me arrest you! *She might not have her badge or her cuffs on her at the moment but she’d be damned if she let that stop her!*

Betty: Anytime, ma’am. *She noticed Duncan.* ‘Morning, Duncan. Just get in?

Duncan: ‘Morning Betty. *He nodded.* Yep. Me and the captain and all. I don’t know how long we’re staying though.

Betty: *She grinned!* Mm … Is that right …? *She leaned toward him!* And what about that delicious

Betty: *Cassius? Is he here, too?

Dion: …Now, I don’t want to sound like I’m challenging your authority as an officer or anything, but I’d like to see you [i]try[/i] and arrest me. *Dion said with all confidence. He might not fight with her, but that doesn’t mean she’d catch him either!*

Dion: …Now, I don’t want to sound like I’m challenging your authority as an officer or anything, but I’d like to see you try and arrest me. *Dion said with all confidence. He might not fight with her, but that doesn’t mean she’d catch him either*

Ceri: Put me down and I’ll show you. *She said, still struggling! Although somewhere in the back of her mind, she had to admit he had a pretty strong grip!*

Ma Hessing: *She was pouring the coffee and the tea for Betty and Duncan. She looked up.* Mac, Bronwen, Brennen, good morning. Tea or coffee?

Dion: Not a chance, love. I put you down, you start running, and then I’d have to chase you all over again. No- I think we’re right to the ship and I’m… going to tie you to a chair or something until we takeoff.

Betty: *Her face broke into a wide grin!* Oh, he is! How wonderful! *She looked ready to squeal in delight when Bronwen offered to lend her her keycard! She clapped her hands together.* I would be much obliged if you did.

Ceri: *She huffed! … Wait, did he just call her ‘love’? Blushing! She had to stop blushing! Focus, Ceri!* Dion, this investigation is important! I’ve worked too long and too hard for this to slip by! I nearly have all the evidence I need.

Dion: *…With a heavy sigh, Dion finally stopped stomping for the ship and set her down. …He had a firm grip on her arms though, just in case.* I understand. I really do. But if you get caught, you’re dead. No prisons, no long years of torment. Just dead. …I want the opportunity to know you, Ceri. I won’t let you before I get that chance.

Betty: If Ceri returns, tell her, not to wait for me. *She said as she took the card.* Thank you! I can’t wait to say hello to my Cassie-Poo! *And then she was suddenly out the door, moving faster than someone her size should be able to move! She used the keycard to get into the ship and then glanced around! Hm … Third door. Second corridor. *She was giddy enough to start calling out for him but stopped herself! She was going to give him one hell of a wake up call! She tiptoed to his room and chanced a look inside!*

Ceri: *He had her arms but she didn’t want to have to hurt him.* Dion, I’m a cop. I put my life on the line so that innocent people won’t suffer. *She shook her head and closed her eyes.* I should never have told you about my being undercover …

Ma Hessing: *She poured Bronwen some coffee.* Scones? Crumb cake? *She offered!*

Brennen: *He’d found himself a seat and smiled.* I’ll take a scone, thank you, Madame Hessing. What flavor is it? *But he was already nibbling on it!*

Cassius: *Cassius was sound asleep with his pullow stuffed over his head, and a little machine next to the bed good and smashed. Apparently he found the noisemaker. He was snoring away!*

Betty: *She started to giggle before she put a hand over her mouth. She tiptoed oh so quietly next to the bed.* Oh, Cassie-Poo … *She whispered into his ear. She could barely contain herself!*

Dion: No, you should have told me sooner. If Morgan or any of her goons find out you let a Shadowstar loose.. There’s.. there’s not even words to describe how shitty that would be! *He was raising his voice, and he had to take in a deep breath.* I’m not going to be able to talk you out of it am I. You really are a Knight.

Ma Hessing: *She smiled.* White chocolate and rumberry scones. There are plenty so eat up.

Cassius: *Snoooooore… grumble.* don wan none… go’way… *Snoooorre*

Ceri: *She smiled a bit.* That’s … what we Knights do. *She cupped his face and closed her eyes.* What are the chances of me meeting up with such a great guy like you? A Shadowstar, no less. *She swallowed. She wasn’t going to cry. She wasn’t going to cry.*

Brennen: *He blinked!* Yikes! *He pulled his fingers out of Tiny’s mouth and checked to make sure they were all there! He breathed a sigh of relief when he found them all accounted for!*

Dion: Ceri… *Amazong how you can meet someone and it just changes… everything! He pulled her forward and kissed her forehead.* I’ve got something for you. A comlink incase there is trouble. It’ll call me…

Tiny wore a smug grin on its face as it finished off that scone! That would teach humans to pick up the same scone!

Ceri: *She opened her eyes and blinked up at him … then she shook her head, stepped back.* I–I can’t. If they find that on me, they’ll track you down. I can’t put you or your family in danger. *But that was so sweet of him! So thoughtful! But she had to stay firm on this!*

Betty: *She started to giggle again and then stopped herself as she tiptoed to the door and locked it. How convenient that it locked from the inside! Then she slipped under the covers and groped him!* Rise and shine, sleeping beauty!

Brennen: *He raised an eyebrow at Tiny.* Very funny. *He snatched a scone and turned away from Tiny to eat it in piece. He occassionally stole glances over his shoulder at the adorable furball sitting on the table.*

Dion: *Dion just pulled her back!* …You can either take the comlink, or you’re going to be living in my room tied to a chair and with Tiny as a guard. …and I have five people that’d help me do it.

Cassius: *snoore grumble…* Hrrmm.. hey, baby… *He reached out to grab… one hell of a huge boobie! Cassius’ loud bellowing could be heard for miles!*

Tiny sat up and its ears twitched!

Ceri: *She looked up at his face. He was serious! On the other hand … it would feel so much better if she knew someone was there for her. Even if it was selfish and stupid. She sighed.* Alright. I’ll take the comlink.

Dion: *With a sigh of relief, he released on of her arms to dig in his pocket and pull out the comlink. …He had even gone the extra step of talking Cassius in to making it look subtle. Like a jacket broach! He placed it in her hand.* It’ll work both ways. … So next time I get myself captured, you can give me another rescue. *He cast her a wry grin.*

Ceri: *She curled her fingers around the comm link and pressed it against her chest. Then she tilted her head up to kiss that grin of his!* Thank you, Dion. I guess this means you’ll be going for awhile. To rescue your brother.

Dion: *Sheepishly and with a blush he nodded!* I suppose it means you’ll know exactly what kind of ruckess we’ll be getting in to. He’s on the other side of the Galaxy, we might be gone longer than usual…

Ceri: *She smiled a bit.* Just take care of yourself. And remember … you promised me you wouldn’t get shot again. *It was nice talking to someone like this. Maybe she’d been spending too much time keeping to herself and shutting people away.*

Dion: *That brought a wide grin from him.* A Shadowstar keeps his promises. I found a nice bit of armor that shoulder handle any more oncoming gunfire. *Now… he gave in to temptation and pulled her in to his arms to rest his chin on her head.*

Ceri: *Oh no, she was blushing again! He always made her blush! But she slipped her arms around him and rested her head on his chest.*