NationStates Jolt Archive

Treznor looks around with interest as the tour progresses. He notes Ceria's attitude and files it away for future consideration.

It would be rude of me to undermine Carlos' people like that. Plus, I won't have much access to her. I'll have to leave this one up to Nath.

He observes the security measures with a sharp eye.

Not a bad setup. It would require more than a little planning to break in here. Not impossible, but it'll certainly discourage your casual thief.

His mind automatically catalogues various methods he'd use to beat the system, but again shuffles it to the back. He has no plans to break into anything for the foreseeable future.

Once I get a better look at what Carlos is running here, I'll be in a better position to offer treaty terms.

Moving the group along Carlos pauses infront of a window where a group of scientists are setting up what appears to be a focusing lens and a giant battery and he smiles.

"This little room here was installed for historic and improvement reasons it's the prototype of our SBL defense system that is in operation right now...which we are planning to upgrade considerably."

Smiling he watches them continue with their set up as Ceria takes a step back and clears her throat. "We are hoping to run joint tests with the dominion's scientists to improve and enhance many of our current techs as well as share what ever information and developments we make in areas."

Frowning at her reflection Carlos shifts slightly and mutters blankly to himself "Silly dont give so much away...."

Nathicana observes it all with undisguised interest, taking special note of the interaction between Ceria and Carlos (though that, she at least has the sense to be less conspicuous about).

The security is tight, but given time, she was confident they could find ways around it. Especially in an environment already ripe for dissension and with limited access from the other side.

She peers curiously at the lens and battery array, arching a brow questioningly. "Quite the defense system you've been showing us, Carlos. You've been a busy boy."

In response to Ceria's comments, she smiles and says, "I'm certain we've many things we'll be working on in conjunction dear, just as I'm equally certain there are things we'll each be keeping more to ourselves - it is not my intent to infringe on our host's national security, after all. I very much doubt, Ceria, that Carlos would approve of you sharing all your projects with us." Here, with her back to Carlos, she gave Ceria what she hoped was a look that conveyed an interest in speaking later ... alone.

Turning back, she very gently laid a hand on Carlos's shoulder, making sure he saw it coming in the reflection. "Besides ... we have a contract."

She hoped her words put him at ease, but didn't bet on it. He wasn't stupid after all, nor was he one to let his guard down. Every bit as paranoid as she, and then some. It was just as well he wouldn't be here much himself.

Ceria eyes nathicana cautiously as she catches the look in her eyes and nods slightly motioning her understanding watching as she moves to Carlos and lays a hand on him she tilts her head to look in another window as she smirks knowingly.

the fool will get what's coming to him

Watching Ceria look away Carlos frowns slightly but looks over his shoulder at Nathicana and smiles "of course I trust you enough to not worry on those things, and after all any tech that isnt a widely kept Iraqstani secret is open for your own people to inspect....after all we are all working for the same thing here. Our own survival and defense"

Recording away nathicana's odd tone of comfort? he watches her reflection and smiles slightly. wonder if i can use that same attitude of comfort against her.......

Excellent - he didn't flinch. She went on in a casual manner, removing her hand from his shoulder and walking around the room, examining things.

"Exactly, Carlos. I think this will prove to be a very profitable agreement for us both. Who knows what we can come up with putting our minds together? And the opportunity to have an advanced scientific facility in space can truly help move along some of our medical pursuits - that sort of thing benefits everyone. I know quite a few doctors who look forward to testing their studies in a zero-g environment. More than one patent could turn out plenty of money on both sides in a joint venture."

Nodding Carlos smiles "Yes the the medical break throughs and scientific discoveries each could propel us both into a new generation of technology. I am very eager to begin working on projects again it has been far too long since I've sat down with technicians and discussed layouts and designs for anything."

Carlos' eyes gleaming with a fire of their own he watches as the technicians in the lab fire the laser at a piece of metal burning a neat hole through it and writing up a test complete.

"Shall we move along?"

"Of course," she says, "Please, lead on."

That man is trouble ... trouble, I say. And no less dangerous than I thought before. Damn straight we'll be working together closely, if only so I can try and keep my eye on you.

While having a healthy respect for the man, and his accomplishments, she didn't trust him farther than she could spit.

Nor did she trust Ceria. Anyone so willing to turn on their own countrymen and leader couldn't be trusted to hold to any bargains made in the process. She would at least be a useful tool for the moment. And when her usefullness ran out ... there were other options.

Perhaps this trip was good for her after all. It had cleared the air a bit between her and Devon, even if it brought in new complications as well. But in her dealings with Carlos and his people, she had started to remember herself a bit. And it felt ... good.

Smiling Carlos leads them past yet more research rooms being set up others completely empty pointing to them he explains "Of course your own teams will have labs all through here, these are but some we have left empty for your people to bring in what ever they need. We have an advanced engine test facility up here that has been the base foundation for our current aircraft engines.

as well as a section set aside from space vehicles and other things associated with zero gravity we are hoping to draw on the gathered knowledge of both our nations to complete those projects and further our presences within the stars." grinning slyly Carlos turns to Nathicana "Of course you m'dear already seem to have a known presence this will help to further yourself."

Chuckling Carlos stops infront of another room where a large computer is running simulations using the current Iraqstani fighter craft putting it through rigorous tests.

"Here will be the test ground for aircraft designs, spaceship designs and engine performances should you ever desire to build and research air craft this is the perfect spot to test the concept without cost or damage to personel."

"Ah, Carlos ... known presence? I'm here merely through my few associations that I've been lucky enough to gain." She brushed it off as if it were nothing, downplaying it muchly.

"I'm impressed with your facilities here," she continued on, in a much more businesslike manner. "And yes, I think our engineers could make good use of such a testing area."

She continued to look around, logging bits away, and planning meetings with said engineers, doctors, and other folk who'd be working up here. This would indeed be quite the opportunity.

Chuckling Carlos looks at Nathicana carefully "And it's associations that make people known....I'm still quite surprised that so many have taken interest in the comings and goings of my country. Truly it's good to know I'm noticed but I always ask myself what they want to get from me in retrun...."

Smirking with inner glee Carlos leads them on through the facility pointing out various rooms and various ideas they come to the other end of the facility another door another security measure. "Usually nobody gets through this door but it's here in case the techs needs something from the stroage section wich is just through here. We can turn about and take the normal route through to the agriculture dome and military hangers if you wish?"

Waiting patiently Carlos smiles.

She takes it all in, making mental inventories of what they see along the way. Reaching the doors, she nods and smiles to Carlos.

"Lead on, my dear. I'm simply enjoying seeing the facilities. I've no idea how often I'll be able to visit myself, after all."

Smiling softly Carlos nods to Ceria and they unlock the door and open it Carlos enters first and Ceria allows everyone to go through before her as Nathicana passes her she gently brushes her hand along Nathi's arm and nods when she catches her eye to indicate she'll talk with her later.

Lets see what the woman has to offer and I'll decide then if I should turn her in or work with her.

Nathicana doesn't register anything beyond brief eye contact as she recieves confirmation.

Now ... to see what else they reveal by their actions or inactions ... need to know what makes her tick.

"Ceria - you've done an excellent job here. I'm impressed," she says as they walk on. "Tell us about yourself, if you would. Anything that isn't classified, of course. Your service record? Training?" she said in a casual, conversational tone.

Smiling tightly Ceria falls in step with Nathicana and begins to talk "thank you ma'am I'm honoured that you take notice of my work.

As for about myself? not much is classified I graduated from the Iraqstani Military Acadamies with honours and the bonus of being a Quil'raya loyalist..." Ceria clears her throat and whispers "At the time I was anyway" coughing again she apologises and resumes speaking "After graduating I was putin charge of the Iraqstani Space Center launching and orientating weather sattelites, military sats and what have you. Then they promoted me to General and gave me commander of the newly structured and employed Space Navy and I served with honours in the wargames and advanced training courses and was given complete command of Iraqstani Space Defense.

Up until President Quil'Raya passed away I was one of his top military advisors and I still remain that with the Führer but at a lesser state than usual. He transfered me to this station after it was complete so that there was an active and intelligent mind behind the minor officials here.

And up until now nothing exciting has happened and well I'm quite enjoying the change in activities from standing and reading reports to touring government heads is quite...enjoyable."

Her eyes flash slightly and she smiles at Nathicana ignoring everyone but her.

Oh dear ... in a rush to get revenge, and getting sloppy before the game even truly begins. Tsk. Aye, she'll be useful ... but will need a damn sight more work before I can use her fully. This could take some time. Unless ... She let that thought drop immediately. No. Not again. Not until she saw how the other was working out, at least. A last option.

"Carlos, you've a valuable asset in this woman. I believe you've made an excellent choice in comanders here. Ceria, that is an impressive record. I'm happy to hear we haven't been too much of a trouble for you. I've had rather the enjoyable trip myself."

She said this all with a smile, and the casual demeanor of one making idle conversation, but she met Ceria's gaze at the end, nodding slightly - though it seemed to be in agreement with her last statement.

Walking along Carlos listens with half an ear to Ceria list off her accords, and what have you and turns around and smiles broadly at Nathicana.

"Indeed my dear, she is a valuable asset to Iraqstan I do not know what we would do without her." chuckling he turns back around and leads them through the store rooms into the agriculture section. Stepping through the doors Carlos smiles as row after row of food is spread out accross the entire section with people walking through each part working dutifully neither acknowledging or recognising the appearance of strangers within their realm.

"The agriculture section makes up the vast majority of supplies for the station so much in fact all we really need to ship out on supply runs are more plant material and water I'm hoping to find away to obtain water naturally up here and thus remove another cost from our bank rolls."

smiling he allows everyone to wander the section at their own free will as he excuses himself and moves to a quiet corner to talk with a technician that was signaling him over.

Dammit ... he keeps moving to where I can't hear, she grumbles to herself.

She listens to the explanations of the agriculture, and water issues, pausing now and then to ask brief questions of the technicians.

"You know, I think with the ships at my disposal that the water problem can be dramatically decreased. Certain I could transport more than enough, and with less cost than you could. Mutually beneficial, don't you think, Carlos?"

Returning from talking to the tech he casts a glance at Ceria and raises an eyebrow Questioningly as she continues to stare at him she smiles ruefully and motions for him to answer nathicana's question.

Better to let him talk than for me to

Nodding he chuckles and returns to the group "Indeed my dear dread lady that I feel would be a most acceptable alternative I of course would be willign to set up a credit line to pay for any resources my people use to compensate the extended costs."

smiling he rests a hand on the small of her back and nods in acceptance before moving off and looking towards yvonne "My dear you've been extreamly quiet....Everything ok? and you to Devon what do you think of this place?"

smiling broadly he watches them all with a cautious eye.

Nathi arches a brow only slightly at Carlos' overly familiar touch, pondering the possible implications. Last night? Too far, perhaps?

Gods, I thought the spitfire had him satiated at least for the moment. It would be ... complicated to get too closely involved here.

"The costs we can discuss when we have more information, I think."

As he turns his attention to the others, she watches from the corner of her eye, trying to guage their reactions on things thus far.

Ceria steps closer to Nathican and whispers "What was with that touch just then? he seemed rather friendly to you...I've never seen that before" looking intently at Nathicana she frowns slightly and waits for a response

Could she be setting me up? It'd be just like Carlos to sneak into bed with some other leader and win them over...hell it's how he won me over to accept this job now look at me....girl I hope your careful he's not one to take lightly or to trust......

Feeling a little paranoid Ceria continues to stare at Nathicana waiting for her response.

"Gods, woman ... have a care," she whispers back very quietly. "And to not presume to question me, my methods, or their results."

Her soft tone spoke volumes, and though her face remained impassive, her eyes tightened slightly, hardening.

Raising an eyebrow questioningly Ceria looks at Nathicana intently "Of course Dread Lady I meant no offense it's just rare to see the führer so open with people...And that lady yvonne I dont even want to know whats going on there. I'm truly sorry if your personal pleasures get in the way of business." smirking triumphantly Ceria takes a step back and resumes running through an inventory list a tech handed her.

That should keep her off foot she wants something from me she's going to have to out and say it some time soon or I go back to my old work.....I tire of games especially when they are played like this.

Looking up and at Nathicana pointedly she shrugs slightly and walks over to a station to enter some confirmation codes.

Nathicana watched her coldly, not responding.

Fool. Speaking out here for all to see, and insulting me no less? Let her simmer. She's the one so angry at Carlos at the moment. And when we have a chance to speak ... they I'll let her know just who will be answering to whom around here. Bitch. Memo to me: hurt her later.

Eyeing the cold look nathicana was giving her Ceria allowed herself a small smug smirk and finishes authorising some more food shipments and personal transfers. Walking back with a smug look about her she walks up to Carlos and puts on a friendly smile and touches his shoulder.

"My Führer perhaps we should wrap this tour up, these people are looking positively exhausted a rest for a few hours before you leave perhaps?" leaving any sort of thought open for everyone present she glances at yvonne and then carlos and smirks before turning around and looking at nathicana and walks past her shielding her hand as she passes nathicana a note. with a whispered "read that" she walks off knowing business would be done soon enough.

Nathicana deftly palms the note, seeming to pay no attention to Ceria as she walks forward, slipping it into a pocket.

"I could use with a bit of wind down time I suppose ... I'm still feeling some of the effects from last night. Do you have any rec rooms that can switch to zero-g? I wouldn't mind going through my workout before bed, and can't help but think the opportunity to try a few moves in such an environment would be a hoot."

She looks over at Devon, without her usual flirtatiousness and asks, "Still up for that sparring match?"

Will read the note back at my room. If its what I think, I'll need decent excuses to be out and about. Besides ... I -do- need to keep myself up ...

nodding absently Carlos looks at Nathicana I'm sure there is a workout area that we can turn the gravity off of for you just ask Ceria to direct you too it since she knows this station much better than I. How about you Devon and Yvonne? require some rest or a sparring match before we leave?" smiling at Yvonne he looks too Devon and arches an eyebrow.

Gives me a chance to play some more with Yvonne if she accepts.

Not waiting for an answer, she nods towards Ceria. "If you could give me directions then, I'll just go change and head down myself."

"My thanks, Carlos - and thank you again for the gracious tour. I believe my people are going to feel right at home here. You've done a marvelous job. Now, if you'll excuse me ..." she says over her shoulder, pausing to turn and nod respectfully to the group.

Nathi nods as Ceria quietly tells her the best way to reach the rec rooms, then raises her hand in a brief farewell, walking back towards her quarters with a brisk, no-nonsense walk, her heels clicking sharply against the floor.

Once there, she changes into a snug white tank top, and grey sweatpants she'd cut off for shorts. The note, as expected, directs her to stop by Ceria's room sometime during her workout period. Noting the directions, she wets down the paper in the sink, hopelessly smearing all evidence as she twists and rubs the bit of paper between her fingers. Once it is destroyed to her satisfaction, she tosses it into the trash, grabs a towel from the bathroom, tosses it over her shoulder, and pads down the hallway to the rec room barefooted.

She pushed open the door, and looked around. Empty. Various equipment was stored in lockers, with other non-mobile parts fixed to floors, ceilings and walls for both grav and zero-g workouts. She dropped down onto the mat and began a routine of stretching exercises, feeling herself relax as she cleared her mind of the plots and stresses of the past few days.

Saluting Carlos in the correct manner she direct nathi to the rec room and leaves to her own quarters upon arrival she locks the door and sits at her desk and looks at herself in the mirror. "Right girl this will be your biggest step out of the shell of the pure since....well since you moved up here. Keep your guard up and watch for a knife of any kind..."

Taking a deep breath she goes about organising her mind and knowledge for the sparring match sure to come when Nathicana arrives. Making a quick phone call to order the station to leave her alone for a few hours she closes her eyes and takes deep breaths calming herself before opening her eyes and looks at herself in the mirror smiling tightly she whispers "My dear Ceria you have the look of a leader about you...."

OOC: I apologise for my lack of participation of late. Between working two jobs and demands at home, my posting rate has gone down the tubes. Fortunately, you two have moved this along beautifully.

IC: Treznor moves along with the party quietly, making mental notes and letting Nathicana direct the questions. He observes both the answers and the body language behind them, noting in particular when the two clash.

Looks like Nath might be supporting a mutiny. I don't think she's got a prayer of succeeding; Carlos isn't a man to be overthrown easily, especially when you're on the opposite side of the solar system. At most Ceria will take control of the station, at which point he'll nuke the facility rather than let someone else keep it. Just remember, Red: he may be psychotic, but he's still canny enough to cut his losses with extreme prejudice. Probably because of his psychosis, he'll possibly shoot first and negotiate later.

I would never have taken over the Freebid Nation if Carlos had been in charge.

He gives Ceria a pitying look, as a man might give a dying woman.

At the suggestion of sparring, he perks up. "Yes, I was wondering about that. Let's see what you've got, Nath."

And if I survive it.

He hurries to his quarters to change.

Yvonne squeezes Carlos' arm and says nothing. Her eyes stare off in the distance, lost in some private thoughts she does not care to share. When Treznor leaves, she follows almost reluctantly.

ooc: Please. You're fine, boyo. We enjoy ya when you're here, and miss ya when you're gone -- AND we understand. We'll still be here when you get back, no worries. *hugs* (gads, if that alone doesn't convince folks we're not the same, I don't know what will. *amused smile*)

ic:

Breathe ... Inhale ... Exhale ... Clear your thoughts ...

She stood in the middle of the mat, eyes closed, letting the 'awareness' of her body take over. It had been interesting, re-learning how to move, how much or how little pressure could be applied to things, how to control the reflexes and the newfound strength. Much of it had been instinctive - Shodey had done a fabulous job. But there were things she'd had to work on all the same. More than one keyboard had been replaced on account of angry typing.

Nathi shook herself out, loosening up. Walking over to one of the cabinets, she took out a stick suitable for mock swordwork, and walked back out to the middle of the mat. Taking a moment to focus, she started slowly going through some forms, concentrating on her balance, footwork, and precision of movement. As she warmed up, she increased her speed and the complexity of her movements, covering the length and breadth of the mat.

Attack ... Counter ... Parry ... She went through her moves, setting herself against an imaginary oponent, and reveling at the lengths her augs would now allow her to push. Thrusting up suddenly with her legs, she threw herself backward into a tight summersault and landing lightly on the balls of her feet, makeshift sword at the ready, her breathing rapid and body damp with perspiration.

I don't do this enough anymore. Not by half.

OOC: what nathi said bucko ;) and we misses ya!!!


Watching yvonne depart with the rest Carlos suddenly feels alone and vunerable shaking off the feeling he walks with determination back through the research wing and towards his quarters absently trailing a hand along the wall.

Things have gone strangely well, keep your head cool and focus on new objective win Yvonne

Smiling inwardly Carlos closes the door to his quarters and picks up a list of requests that were delivered earlier by the tech in the agridomes. Reading over them he sees requests for the usual resources, purchases and what not signing off on them he beckons a guard over and orders him to deliver it to the science head immediately.

Laying back Carlos begins planning out how to win over a woman whom seems to of drifted into silence and show her what life is really like.

--------------------------------------------------

Ceria sits in her quarters figeting anxiously waiting for the dread lady to arrive, finnaly having enough of it she gets up and marches towards the command section intent on locating and watching what the dread lady was doing. Arriving at the command section she confiscates the security consoles and begins flicking between rec rooms, finnaly finding the one required she watches with amusement as nathicana works out.

Such a body, no wonder she can draw Carlos and this Devon in so easily. She obviously took offense when I mentioned it there's a way to keep her off guard if I ever saw one.

Smiling coldly she continues to watch nathicana and all that happens in the rec room.

Treznor is silent as he makes his way back to his quarters to change. He watches Yvonne as she enters her room, but she won't meet his eyes so he doesn't push.

Damn, she really has been a good security chief. I'll miss her.

He steps into his room and dresses in a loose-fitting exercise outfit. Then he steps back out into the corridor and without waiting for Yvonne, heads for the gymnasiums. Unfortunately, he doesn't know his way around and is forced to stop to ask for directions.

When he reaches his destination, Nathicana is already deep into her routine. He watches quietly as she steps gracefully from one phase to the next, the moment of transition almost impossible to follow.

Ye gods, she's a living death machine. Whatever else they've done to her, she's never been so strong or fast. I can't begin to compete with her.

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http://www.pwfc.org/images/gallery/smtorso3.jpg
Emperor Devon I
Empire of Treznor
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Yvonne walks quietly behind Treznor, her thoughts spinning every which way without an anchor to focus on. She hardly notices when they arrive at their quarters, and she enters her room without looking back. She hears him leave a few moments later, but doesn't follow him.

What's the matter with me? she demands of herself. He's the man who gave me my life! He took the girl I was and shaped me into the woman I am today! So why do I still feel like a little girl with a schoolyard crush?

She sighs deeply and sits on her bunk, staring sightlessly at the wall.

Now there's Carlos, with his blunt offers and sweet manner. Sometimes he seems like a callow bully, and other times he's like the father I barely knew.

She buries her face in the pillow.

I don't know what to think, or to feel!

As Nathi walks towards the lockers to put back the stick, she catches sight of Devon. Snagging the towel from where she'd left it laying, she pats herself off, walking towards him with a touch more sway to her hips than she'd originally intended.

"Glad you could make it, Dev. Need a moment to stretch?" she asks, with no sign of the flirtations or mockery from earlier in the day.

I will behave myself ... I said I'd lay off. She found it interesting that she had to stop and think occasionally before replying. Teasing and taunting him had always been second nature, after all.

Still, her eyes wander appreciatively over his frame as he stands there.

Treznor smiles and nods, bending down to remove his sandals before stepping onto the mat. He bounces on the balls of his feet, testing the gravity and noting the way it seems to pull slightly to the left according to the spin of the station. Then he begins a slow stretching routine, gradually increasing in speed as his muscles warm up and his ligaments loosen.

I do believe I'm getting old!

He steps through two basic katas before entering one final stretch, and straightens. He gestures mildly to Nathicana.

"Shall we dance?"

Watching him work out, she smiles.

Have to admit ... he looks good. Even at a distance, she thought with a grin, pondering the not so distant shower they'd shared. He'd felt good as well ... but she tried not to think about that too much. It complicated things.

At his invitation, she nods and smiles, stepping onto the mat. She pauses briefly, taking a defensive stance, then without a word launches herself at him, going for a chest strike, hoping to knock him back. She very carefully reigns in her speed and strength, inadvertently toning down more than she should.

I don't want to hurt him, she thinks even as she strikes.

Treznor notes the relative slowness of the strike, and it confuses him. However, it gives him just enough time to step aside and drag her slightly off-balance with a snatch to her sleeve before slapping the back of her knee with his foot.

"You're holding back, Red. That's not how this works, remember? If I can survive the knife you stuck into me, I think I'll live through this."

He steps back and waits patiently.

"Holding b... you smug son of a ..." she growls, shrugging off the tap.

Closing the distance, she steps in, putting her right foot between his, then sweeping out as she strikes out from the right with her left arm, up towards his face.

Treznor steps back automatically, and finds himself tangled up with her foot.

What the --

He goes over backwards, managing to avoid the strike at the expense of his upright position. He lands heavily on his back and rolls to get clear.

He nods as he gets to his feet. "Uh, yeah. Like that."

This is gonna hurt.

He settles comfortably into a low stance, then sweeps out with his left foot as he brings his right arm around to where he expects her to jump.

She jumps as he predicted, cursing slightly as she reads his intent. Twisting, she strikes out with her leg to block his shot, attempting to push through with it towards his shoulder without tapping into her reserves.

Treznor connects with Nathicana's leg and wraps his hand around it, sliding down to the ankle and pulling sharply. He makes sure his feet are planted solidly as he twists at the waist to send her to the floor where he just came from.

She goes down, but grabs his ankle firmly as he whips her past, jerking hard in an attempt to throw him off balance and forward, then trying to roll to her feet.

Treznor's eyes open wide as he feels the hand on his ankle, and suddenly his world turns upside-down just before he lands on the mat once again. He bounces with an "oof" and rolls onto his back, kicking up to return to his feet much quicker than before. He settles back into an alert stance, then steps back and relaxes slightly as Nathicana returns to hers.

"Yeah," he says breathing hard. "Like that."

Eyes glinting with amusement Ceria sits watching the play unfold in the rec room with rapt attention.

Ye gods she's fast, and him good gracious that body!

Sitting back she carefuly notes their moves, reactions and moods the entire time paying close attention to injuries if given or bruisings that could later be used for a means of subduing the aggressive and smirks. "she wont be that easy girl buck up and learn all you can." she whispers and quietens down again.

But our battle will be just as impressive I'm sure.....

----------------------------------------

Carlos gets bored and decides to go for a walk, absent mindedly wandering the housing section nodding to people lost deep inside thoughts of a woman and his security.

"Would she leave him.....would she accept you? questions you cant answer with a speech about the pure" snarling Carlos lashes out at a wall punching it again and again finishing only when blood is smeared over the wall and his fist throbs deliciously he walks again with renewed pace.

"I'll ensure she knows how I feel, how she feels and that it's good for both of us" he mutters as he storms off ignoring the people around him.

If not I'll just have to find someone to execute no big deal.....

Nathi shoots him an impish grin, rotating her shoulders and shaking loose a bit.

"Just like that?" she asks teasingly, begining to circle him with a casual cross-step, keeping herself balanced on the balls of her feet. "It's been a while since I had a sparring partner, boy. Last one was made 'o metal, up on Zero-One. Didn't like me much, as I recall ... "

"I nearly took his head off." She winks at him slyly. "So ... show me what you've got, Dev."

She puts her arms out gracefully out in front and waves him forward with her fingertips, palms upward, inviting. Her eyes glitter with the thrill of competition.

"Bring it."

Treznor shakes his head like a dog, settles back into an offensive stance. He centers himself, seeks the Void and springs forward with a flurry of strikes followed by a high kick to the temple.

Shit ... She moves forward to throw off his strikes, rapidly blocking with her hands and arms, one strike landing solidly enough that she was immediately glad of the bone-lacing Shodey had done.

The kick came in smoothly, and she leaned back, knees bent, letting it pass over her, balanced, yet in a precarious position.

Treznor winces as his fist connects with Nathicana's body, his first encounter with the bone-lacing. He follows through gamely, launching the high kick that passes through empty air. He lands on the balls of his feet and spins about in a low sweep, trying not to lose the momentum he's built up.

Christ, she's fast!

His strike sweeps her legs out from under her, and she lands with an audible 'oof', and a rather vehement curse in their native tongue.

That's it. I'll be damned if I'm going to roll over and play nice for him.

Kicking back up onto her feet with suprising speed, she moves in quickly, closing the distance with a low growl, and opting for a grappling move as opposed to a strike, still not wanting to hurt him. Much.

Treznor blinks as Nathicana regains her feet with blinding speed and attacks again, knowing that a strong offense is his only hope. Somehow, she isn't there where he expects her to be, and he finds himself grappled; a place he does not want to be. He centers himself and tries for a throw, only to be stopped cold.

Not good. This is not good at all.

She quickly entwines her arms in his, mirroring her earlier move with one leg, and stands there, their bodies pressed tightly against each other, breathing hard.

Her eyes glitter as she looks him in the eyes, saying nothing.

Without warning, she releases him, stepping back and looking away. "I think ... that's about enough of that," she says, reaching again for her towel and wiping away the perspiration from her face and neck.

Had to stop. Could have hurt him. And ... that was just too 'close' for comfort there.

Treznor nods and steps away, presenting her with a short bow to acknowledge her the winner.

"That was...remarkable. You've definitely...improved since we last tangled."

He rubs his neck briefly as a reminder of that conflict.

She gives him a wry grin, returning the bow even as she rubs her hand over her ribs in acknowledgement.

"I cheated. And you know it. Was hardly fair, and for that, I ... apologize." She drops her eyes for a moment, tilting her head down slightly, then looks back at him directly.

"You've kept yourself in fine shape, boy." Looking him over unashamedly for the moment at least, she grins broadly. "Damn fine."

You up to a bit more, or are you calling it a night?

I still need to talk to Ceria ... just as well. I'm going to end up either beating him, or ... bah.

Treznor smiles and shakes his head. "You didn't cheat, you used what you have. I never consider that cheating, no matter how you came by it. You beat me fair and square, and I consider it a natural conclusion. I respect it."

He bows again at the compliment.

"Now then, my lady. If you'll excuse me, I'll go shower and lick my wounds. Maybe next time we can try this in zero-gee. I've always wanted to try that."

She nods in agreement. "I'm sure there'll be time before we leave. Not on as tight a schedule as we would have been had we taken Carlos' ship."

"Sleep well. I'll see you in the morning."

She waits a good count after he leaves, using the time to stretch out again, and think. When she's ready, she looks around the room smiling towards where she's certain he's had cameras installed, then walks out the door.

Making certain Devon is nowhere in sight, she jogs through the halls, stopping at Ceria's door and knocking firmly.

Watching the fight progress Ceria's eyes sparkle with glee as Nathicana progressively wins over devon Bout time this woman showed more than her intent to lick that man all over she thinks with a smirk as the fight ends Ceria stands up and returns the security station to it's rightful owner.

Gotta get back to my rooms Tossing brief salutes to the people in the room she leaves and quickly makes her way back to her rooms arriving with bare minutes to spare.

the knock sounds out and jolts her out of her brief rest and she rushes to the door attempting to hide any indication she has not been in her rooms the entire time.

Opening it she smiles briefly and steps out of the way silently inviteing nathicana in.

She steps into the room like she owns the place. Well, technically, she supposed she did have some 'ownership' in it now.

"Ceria." She gives the woman a brief nod, then sits herself down in the first available chair, her eyes scanning the room.

"I take it we're safe to talk here, yes?"

closing the door behind her Ceria turns around and sits in a chair facing nathicana and smiles "Yes we are I have enough pull in the military to remove myself from the constant security measures.

Now where do we start?"

sitting back she smirks slightly and waits for Nathicana to begin

She wants me she can come right out and begin this.....

Nathi relaxes back in the chair, swinging her leg up and over her other knee.

"Do be a dear and get me some water, will you? I'm parched after that workout." She watched the woman with apparent unconcern. "So what did you think?"

Either she was watching, or she had us watched, I'm sure of it. If not ... well, that shows me she's not one to take the initiative. She waited to see the woman's reacion to that.

Smirking ruefully Ceria stands up and grabs the water she picked up on her way to her quarters and pours a glass for Nathicana and one for herself.

"What did I think of what? the fight? Rather amusing I must say I was impressed that you took a stance of attack rather than uh.....a different form of attack..." grinning suggestively she returns with the bottle of water and set Nathicana's drink in front of her.

sitting back down she sips her drink and stares nathicana straight in the eye "It was surprising to say the least you opted for violence rather than bed..the looks you give that man are easy to recognise..." clucking to herself she begins sorting through papers she left on the table and waits for any reaction.

Piss her off and keep her off guard then drive the home plate thats the rules for this game...hurt? yeah I might get hurt but hey she cant risk killing me or doing any significant damage.....

Nathicana maintains her pleasant smile, for all the world looking like not a thing phased her.

Why you arrogant bitch. How dare you speak to me like that? I'll have your heart on a platter before you can say mutiny.

"Why not let him think that I'm willing to trade favors, my dear? It just makes the job of keeping him off balance that much easier. The ploy obviously worked on you."

HA! Let her wriggle her way out of THAT one.

Blinking quickly once Ceria takes a drink to hide her surprise and to regain her composure She who betrays her country, oft loses anything she has acucmulated

Smiling sweetly Ceria looks to Nathicana "My dear, what gives you the idea I wanted anything from you? Surely it would not be so much as to give me a little more freedom on this station? I'm assuming you want something from me....." flicking her finger against the table she awaits Nathicana's response.

"Simple, girl. I wasn't the one nearly falling over myself in an effort to set up this little meeting. Now," she said firmly, putting her leg back down so both were firmly on the ground, "Do we continue to banter words, or do I leave now, and take your little note directly to Carlos? He'd be happy to let you explain yourself to him? I daresay he'd enjoy 'interrogating' you for the truth."

She paused, looking Ceria over pointedly. "You do seem well enough his type, after all. And unless I miss my guess, he's more than capable of putting you where he feels is your place."

chuckling quietly to herself Ceria looks up ruefully "But my dear dread lady which would poor paranoid Carlos look to believe? the commander whom gave up her life for this metal coffin in space? or the lady whom hints at secrets and seems intent on keeping people off guard?"

smirking Ceria leans forward and continues "Now we both know that going to Carlos will get us no where, if I get replaced it will be someone Carlos himself picks a loyalist perhaps even a loyalist extremist..... suffice to say not somebody you could even look at without Carlos hearing about it.... And I've spent time in Carlos' bed that is nothing new to me"

Sitting back again she looks Nathicana straight in the eye "The ball is in your park my dear dread lady, which way are you going to pitch?"

I should have know, the sly dog. Bed them then place them where you will.

"Enough with the games, Ceria. You wouldn't have taken the risk that you did back there if you didn't have something you wanted. Now what is it?"

She sat back, taking on a casual, relaxed air, and sipped her water slowly, eyes glittering.

Ah, Ceria ... I think you underestimate your standing with the man. If he's anything like what I believe, the very thought of treachery would have your head on the block faster than you could blink.

About time girl, I was getting impatient

Leaning forward Ceria's eyes glint with hidden glee as she licks her lips and begins to speak "What I want Dread Lady is something more exciting than this dull and boring space station to command. You give me that and everything that Carlos does up here will be known to you.

Everything I can access on my down time will be given to you. You will get yourself a nice comfy voice in the wind. Now dont begin protesting your pretty little mouth off because frankly I dont think I'd enjoy listening to that, I've no intentions of overthrowing Carlos at this moment in time the people love him and the place would crumble without him, get me off of this rotting hulk and into something with a bit more prestige and I'll gladly inform you of anything you want any time you want."

sitting back she folds her arms over her chest and stares intently at Nathicana a smug grin on her lips.

Either way she decides to betray me I'll be leaving here....Death or no Death I just want this chance.....

Nathicana schools her face to a very neutral expression.

"And just how would you guarantee me such ... freedom here, if you are somewhere else, Ceria?"

Why does she want it so badly? This is a fantastic opportunity here! Why want to throw it all aside? She's taking an awfully big risk here. But how to accomodate ... off the station?

She pondered it while waiting for Ceria to respond. Then a thought hit her.

An envoy, perhaps? We have no embassy arrangement ... Hmm.

Nodding slightly Ceria looks at nathicana pointedly "The people on this station might be loyal to the Führer, but they follow orders, I do not wish to be permantely moved from here, I enjoy the work I do.....I get tired of the lack of contact with people look around you Nathicana.

These walls grow decidedly thin after a few months of looking at them, but Carlos has decided that I'm worth more to be permenantly stuck on this hulk of egg heads and out dated military software and thus I cannot leave the sector... He has done this to both annoy me and punish me for not giving him what he wanted during his father's reign.

To lump it all together I want payback and I'll do anything to make Carlos a bit more uncomfortable in life...."

Sitting back she looks away to hide her anger and waits for nathicana to respond.

Well now ... not quite what I'd expected. But what to do about it? I suppose I will need an envoy. Someone to go back and forth between us ... perhpas this will work.

Nodding slowly, she sets her glass aside, and rises to her feet.

"I can't make any promises." She looks at Ceria hard, eyes weighing and measuring. "But ... I will see what I can manage. Carlos is no lap dog of mine, nor is he likely to bend at a mere swaying of hips or teasing inuendo. He's a dangerous man, Ceria. You're taking a huge risk talking to me like this."

Her brow furrows for a moment, but she walks over to the woman all the same, putting out her hand.

"Lets see where this road takes us."

Watching Nathicana closely Ceria blinks slowly and smiles slightly as she hears her response.

"Indeed he is neither a lap dog nor a safe man to conspire against, but I take it you wont be betraying me to him any time soon......" standing up she takes Nathicana's hand and shakes it firmly "Indeed lets see where this road takes us"

Least she wont until I no longer serve a use to her, watch yourself girl it's now a bigger game, she wont stab you in the back yet but it'll happen eventually.

She nods, clasping Ceria's hand in a tight grip, meeting her eyes without blinking.

"Done then. I'd best get back to my quarters. I've tarried long enough as it is."

And with that, she walks briskly to the door, adjusting the towel around her shoulders before loping off down the hall at an easy pace. Upon reaching her room, she hits the shower, pondering recent events as she quickly cleans up.

No idea where this is going, or how far I can trust the girl. She's far too careless not to have under close watch. Still ... a bit of freedom up here would be gratifying. Make my ops' job just that much easier.

Stepping out of the shower, she dries off, and heads for bed, stretching out under the cool sheets with a sigh of contentment.

Now to see what tomorrow brings.

Nodding and waiting until Nathicana left Ceria locks the door and strips down before heading to the shower turning the heat on to a nice comfortable near scalding she steps under and relaxes.

Betray the holy lands is a crime where no compromise can come from! The price of betrayal is death! I your Führer will not give mercy to traitors of my rule! You all have be warned. Do you swear to uphold the laws and demands of an officer of the holy empire?

Mumbling a silent "Yes my Führer!" Ceria begins to relive the inductions and oaths taken in the square of enlightenment oh so long ago. "You've done it now girl, no turning back bed you then leave you now it's time for you to turn his life into hell." laughing softly she relaxes into the shower and drifts off into oblivion.

.... After a peaceful nights rest ....

Nathicana slides out of bed the next morning, feeling refreshed and anxious to speak with Carlos.

No idea how this is going to go over, but it's worth a shot. If not, I'm afraid our dear Ceria is in for a rude awakening. Leave no loose ends, after all.

She takes a bit of time primping and preparing for the day, once more opting for a more militaristic 'uniform' of sorts for her ensemble. Her hair once more in a long braid, her clothing crisp and efficient in appearance, she leaves her quarters and makes her way down to the cafeteria, hoping for a bite to eat.

Waking from a not so restful slumber Carlos gets dressed into civillian clothes consisting of a light grey shirt and black long pants he proceeds to patch up the wounds on his hand from the wall the night before and chuckles to himself "If she wants to come over to you, she will just show her there's something for her in your lands kiddo."

Leaving his rooms he makes his way to the cafeteria feeling hungry and some what alone.

Opening the door he waves slightly to Nathican and sets about gathering food for his breakfast.

Smiling broadly, Nathi nods to Carlos as he enters, noting his hand, but tactfully saying nothing. She measures out the proper amount of cream and sugar into her coffee that she always does, stirring it in gently.

"Good morning, Carlos. I trust you slept well? Must say, I found my room quite comfortable. And the gym was fantastic." She picks up her coffee, takes a grapefruit half and a large muffin and sits down at a table, motioning him to join her when he's gotten what he needs.

Fixing himself a cup of coffee and adding a hefty dose of sugar he pries away a small piece of fruit and walks over to nathicana sitting down he smiles "Than you m'dear I'm glad you found the quarters to be up to standard and the gym yes I heard from the security detail of the rather....impressive show you and devon put on." winking slyly he focuses on his small breakfast and sips his coffe "aaah the essence of heaven this is"

"So I trust you slept soundly then my dear?"

"You heard that, did you?" She chuckles, sipping her coffee carefully. "I'm sure they overstated. Truly. And yes ... like the dead."

She took a bite of the muffin, chewing thoughtfully for a moment.

"Carlos, you realize ... we're going to need an envoy from the station. Someone who can travel back and forth when needed. After all, you and I are hardly well equipped to chase off here every time something needs adressed ..."

Nodding absently Carlos picks at his hand and frowns "I actually hand thought of that, do you have someone in mind?" looking up slightly he finishes his cup coffe and pushes the piece of fruit away settling back he smiles.

"It's a good Idea, I'd like to know who you'd recommend."

Assuming a thoughtful air, she went through the motions of thinking hard as she slowly chewed another bit of her muffin.

Mmm .. cinnamon apple goodness ..

"Well, I can't think of anyone more qualified to give us proper reports than who you've already chosen to run the place. One would think Ceria to be the obvious choice. Not only that, but having her report directly would keep any factions who might dare think to press an advantage under our thumbs. After all, direct reporting does avoid the suberfuge possible with long distances ... and it solidifies her position as well."

She set the muffin aside, sipping her coffee, and looking at him with an expresson of 'just an idea'.

Picking at his hand once more and wincing slightly he looks up and smiles warmly "As always my dear you point out that which I fail to take into account, that's a sound idea she does seem most qualified for the job.

And yes her position here....I'm sure she wont mind, I'll have notification sent to her at earliest conveniance of course."

Nodding his thanks he smiles again "Enjoying your breakfast m'dear? I can have them whip up something more to your likeing if you wish"

Either he's slipping, I'm far better than I thought, or something is odd here ... or am I just being paranoid again?

She kept her face from betraying her suprise, settling for a nod and a smile.

"I think she'd be excellent. As for all that other, I'm fine, truly. this this here is more enough - I'm not used to heavy meals this early."

Nodding absently Carlos frowns for a moment and looks up "Nathicana, whats your take on Yvonne? Something went odd yesterday and I dont know what to do......" trailing off he shrugs slightly and chuckles "as for food...well I usualy dont eat more than one meal a day so this is rare for me to eat" chuckling as he reaches out for the fruit and eats it slowly.

Get an independant opinion on Yvonne then see if you can win her over kiddo that's the order of business.

A cheerful whistling, horribly off-key, can be heard from the hallway moments before Treznor ducks into the cafeteria. He spots his comrades and waves to them before piling a hefty amount of food on his tray and filling up his mug with tea. Eventually, he makes his way over and sits down beside them.

"Good morning to you both! At least, I assume it's morning. Kind of hard to tell, since the lights stay on at the same level all the time. I trust you both slept well?" He grins and bites into his buttered toast.

"You need to eat more than that to stay sharp, Carlos," she says, going to work on her grapefruit, methodically scooping out each section in a neat, concise manner.

At the question of Yvonne, she stiffens, taken completely off guard.

"Well, I ah ... "

Devon makes his entrance, and she smiles pleasantly, suddenly glad of the interruption.

"Good morning, Devon. And yes ... quite well."

chuckling softly Carlos finishes the piece of fruit and smiles ruefully "I'm not much of an eater." turning towards Devon Carlos nods and smiles "Good morning indeed Devon, I run a simple rule up here it's morning no matter when you wake up! sleep well? Yes I did eventually I'm not overly comfortable sleeping up here" shrugging softly he sits back and lets his eyes roam around obviously looking for Yvonne, not finding her his appearance seems to shrink slightly but he forces himself back to normal and smiles brightly "I take it you slept well then?"

Nathicana grins impishly, taking the opportunity of Carlos engaging Devon in conversation to sneak a strip of bacon from his tray. She shoots him a triumphant wink, and nibbles it contentedly, glancing back at the available food, her stomach growling loudly.

She blushes, and focuses on finishing her muffin, grumbling internally.

Shodey was right - always a helluva lot more hungry after I've exerted myself. Should have gotten something last night before bed. Ah, the wonders of nanotech.

Treznor glares at Nathicana and brandishes a fork threateningly, then grins and continues with his meal. He nods happily to Carlos.

"Slept like a baby, thanks." He pauses to sip from his mug. "I expect Yvonne must have stayed up too late. I knocked on her door, but she didn't answer. I thought I'd let her sleep."

Nathi looks away slightly, a somewhat guilty expression playing over her face. She covers it by grumbling something about 'damn metabolism' and goes to help herself to some bacon, french toast and sausage. She grabs a glass of orange juice, and sits back down at the table, shooting Devon a quick look, clearly daring him to comment on her aparent appetite.

Oh, bah ... did what I thought best at the time ... she's a big girl. She tried to brush it off, munching thoughtfully on a sausage link.

"So what's the plan for today, boys? Devon, you're on 'vacation' ... anything you want to see before we wear out our welcome? Perhaps any stops on the way home?"

Pausing to swallow a mouthful of food, Treznor nods and smiles. "Actually, I wanted to talk to Carlos about renting space aboard this fine vessel. I have some thoughts on experiments my people could run for my stealth technology and fusion generators."

He waves his hand idly, oblivious to the fact that it's holding his toast. "I know, I know. I'm on vacation. But strike while the iron's hot, right?"

Nodding slightly Carlos grins ruefully "I had a suspision this would come up you know already of the charter set forth for this place yes? Of course I am assuming that our dear Dread Lady has no problem with this...."

turning to Nathicana Carlos looks with faint amusement and a question in his eyes.

Treznor shakes his head. "Sorry, I wasn't aware of it. Mind if I take a look?"

He shovels some reconstituted egg onto his spoon and eats it, pausing only momentarily to look as though he regretted it.

Nodding Carlos motions for an aide to come forward "I'll get a copy bought to you right now" ordering the aide who nods and walks off Carlos returns to his piece of fruit and pushes it aside.

"So how is Yvonne Devon? I'm worried about the poor girl." trying to feign non-caring as best as he can Carlos awaits any sort of response on the woman.

Treznor nods happily. "Thank you."

He shrugs at the mention of Yvonne. "Sleeping soundly, it seems. I knocked on her door before coming to breakfast, but she didn't answer. She could still be sulking, but I'm being optimistic and assuming she's getting some sleep. She's been under a bit of stress, lately. I think I can see my way toward giving her the day off."

Nodding Carlos smiles "She has seemed a bit..off for a while, I'd like to talk to her again if that's ok..." shrugging slightly Carlos walks off to grab another drink and piece of fruit.

Hopefully I can win that girl over...would make me feel a tad more comfortable.

Nathi's brows arch up at Devon's timing.

"Well hell, boy ... if you were interested, why didn't you get in on it yesterday? Afraid of stepping on toes, or had your usual knack for opportunity grabbing failed you? And no Carlos - no problem at all. It is your station after all."

She grins at him in a challenging manner, chin tilted up slightly as she spears a bit of her french toast and teasingly slides it off her fork between her tongue and upper teeth.

You slick son of a bitch, trying to put me at ease, keep me off my guard. We'll see, boyo ... we'll see. We've a dinner yet to attend, and I hope to have you squirming in your seat for all this.

Chewing slowly, she observes Carlos out of the corner of her eye.

Oh surely not ... smitten? Gods, man, what have you boys been drinking lately? It's an epidemic! Remind me to keep firmly away from that Scotch if softening the head is what one gets from it.

She quite firmly discounted any of the conflicting feelings she'd had of late. Not the same thing at all, of course. Silly men.

"Why not send someone to go check on the girl. Couldn't hurt. Those doors are quiet enough I doubt she'd be overly disturbed."

chuckling Carlos returns with some more fruit and a cup of juice and returns in time to catch the rest of the conversation and nods "If it is ok with the both of you I think I'll go check on her, give Devon time to read over the charter and what have you."

Looking at them both questioningly Carlos smiles and places his breakfast on the table and sits down for a few moments.

Nathicana waves him off, taking a long sip from her juice, then nodding.

"Of course, of course ... You've been an excellent host, Carlos - to all of us. I'll go over the finer points here with Devon, if he has any questions. You two can hash it out when you get back."

She quite pointedly doesn't make a fuss over him going, nor tries to hint that it might be out of character, instead taking the copy from the aide and sliding it over to Devon, her businesslike manner returning.

"As you can see here, we've agreed to ..."

Nathi continues on, going over the contract, clearly enjoying the interaction.

(will tg the document)

Nodding to both Carlos leaves his food and heads out towards the sleeping quarters and Yvonne's room, nodding to station workers as he goes he tries to quell his nervousness and stops questioning the correctness of such an action he is currently taking forcing all things to the back of his mind Carlos arrives at Yvonne's door and knocks once...waiting a few minutes he keys in the security over-ride and the door opens. Opening the door slightly Carlos whispers softly "Yvonne are you awake?" pausing he waits for a reply before going any further.

Treznor continues to eat as he peruses the document, one eyebrow quirked as he reads. "You know," he says to no one in particular. "This is a remarkably democratic document. I certainly have no qualms about bringing a team up here under these conditions."

Plus, it means that I'll always know where to find the thing.

He requests a pen from a nearby scientist and signs at the bottom, underneath Nathicana's name.

He winks at Nathicana. "Now if Der Führer can forget his new love interest long enough, we can discuss precisely what it is I hope to accomplish up here."

He sips his tea and sighs thoughtfully. "I hope this doesn't end badly, though. Yvonne is rapidly becoming a security risk. I'll hate to have to remove her."

Elsewhere...

There is no answer at Yvonne's door.

Nathicana chuckles softly, watching Devon closely as he goes over and signs.

"I thought that left rather enough wiggle room, myself. Welcome aboard, boy. I take it your folk will need a ride too? I'm sure we could negotiate something if we put our heads together."

She grins impishly at that, unable to keep the tease from her voice.

"As for Carlos ... " her tone becomes more serious. "I truly hope I haven't meddled too much." She bites her lower lip, in a sure sign of indecision, absently picking up another strip of bacon.

Treznor nods happily in agreement, boldly stealing a strip of bacon from Nathicana's plate. "Oh, yes. Quite a bit of wiggle room there. And yes," he grumbles a bit here. "I'll need a ride. We'll have to talk about that later."

His eyebrow goes back up at the suggestion of meddling.

"Nath," he says quietly. "Just what did you do?"

She quickly grabs her fork and stops just short of stabbing the end of the bacon strip with an imperious, meaningful look of 'I -let- you get away with that', then grins.

"Of course. Later," she nods. At his question she glances back at him in suprise. I -did- say that out loud, didn't I? Oh bloody hell ...

"Oh ... well ... the ah, seating arrangements on the way up and all ... " she trails off, dismissing it with an idle brush of her hand, finishing off the last sausage link as an excuse to stop talking.

Treznor winks at Nathicana, acknowledging her supremacy.

Yes, I know you let me have it. It's part of the game, after all, and we both know it.

He frowns at her explanation of "meddling," but lets it go. He decides it isn't worth arguing over.

"How many people were you planning to put on this station? It's got a lot of room, but space is still at a premium. I was thinking of no more than six for me. My interests are still...modest."

"Six teams of twenty each was the initial figures. Including trade offices, scientific groups, and maintenance. I'll be using this place for docking rights as well as research after all. Should fit in with the rest of my plans nicely."

She smiles pleasantly, enjoying the edge, yet all too aware that he'd let her slide.

"Which of course leads into your issues of transportation and the like. I look forward to the negotiations."

Dammit Carlos, grab the girl and get back here. How the hell long does it take to ... She breaks off of those thoughts, wiping the sudden flush from her face as her gaze passes over Devon out of the corner of her eye.

If not for complications that would have been a pleasant end to an already pleasant evening. I wonder if he still ... She lets her mind wander in that direction, a mischievous grin tugging at the corners of her lips as she polishes off the last of her breakfast.

Treznor grins and goes back to his own plate, digging into the eggs again. His expression a moment later suggests he'd forgotten why he put them aside in the first place.

Six teams of twenty? I wonder what she's working on so diligently. That's an awful lot of resources.

"I always look forward to another chance to...negotiate with you."

Calling out "Yvonne" again Carlos frowns and opens the door not turning on the lights he walks in and calls out softly again "Yvonne are you in here?" standing at the doorway masking light from outside Carlos tries to look into the room not wishing to disturb her....

Strange....

shrugging he turns on the light and surveys the room........

Yvonne bolts upright in bed, hugging the sheets against her body. She opens her mouth to scream, but Carlos' identity registers in her brain before it gets out.

"C-Carlos! What are you doing here? What...what time is it?"

Chuckling Carlos steps out of the doorway and smiles "It's breakfast time for one and we were all wondering about you. We were hoping you'd join us for breakfast my dear, so come on up you get dressed and ready I'll wait." grinning mischeviously Carlos looks at Yvonne pointedly eyebrows raised.

Yvonne looks around blearily for a clock, and finds a small digital display on the wall. She gasps. "Oh my gods! Why didn't anyone wake me? I don't know why I overslept! It's so unlike me!"

She starts to pull back her covers, revealing a flash of silky white skin, but remembers suddenly that she has company. "Um, sir, if you don't mind..."

She blushes fiercely.

smirking ruefully Carlos shrugs and turns to face the wall "It's not like I've not seen it before m'dear and we let you sleep in because we thought you needed it, I have been worried about you since that little episode in the hall...." shrugging Carlos studies his hand and picks at the cuts.

"That and nothing much happens up here so there's no risk of security breaches Devon and Nathicana are currently in the cafeteria eating I assume" Carlos chuckles and picks at his hand some more.

Quit being so damned nervous kiddo

Yvonne chooses not to answer, although if possible her blush becomes even brighter. She throws on the same clothes she'd worn the night before, too concerned for her modesty to worry about details.

"In the cafeteria? Thank you, I should be there now. Where's my brush? Oh, there's no time! Why did I oversleep?"

chuckling Carlos turns around and smiles "My dear take your time Devon isnt worried it was his idea to let you sleep in, please calm down and take your time to get ready I promise you we will not leave without you." Grinning mischeviously Carlos takes a seat at the table and looks pointedly at Yvonne "Now go on take your time I insist and please just Carlos as usual"

Besides I need to compose how best to win this one over to me.

Yvonne pauses halfway to the door, Carlos' words having finally penetrated her brain. She slumps visibly and walks back to sit on the bed. Then she looks up at him.

"What's happening to me? A few days ago I was on top of my game. I was precisely where I wanted to be, doing what I wanted to do and I knew what I wanted and how to get it. Today...I'm a wreck. I'm no good to anyone like this.

"Carlos, what's wrong with me?"

Frowning slightly Carlos stands up and drags the chair closer to Yvonne sitting back down he pats her on the shoulder and clears his throat. "I dont think there is anything wrong with you my dear Yvonne, Devon felt it best to allow you to sleep in given yesterday's course of events. I personaly had I not been busy with station needs would of demanded he allow you to sleep in. You had me worried a great deal." shrugging slightly Carlos looks at the floor before continuing.

"As for the other things I dont begin to pretend to know the answers but I do not think you've lost your edge, in anyway shape or form" sighing softly Carlos looks up and smiles.

She's too worried about Devon to care anything for someone else....I should give up

Yvonne reaches forward and takes Carlos' hand in hers. "Oh Carlos, dear, what we had was wonderful, it really was. And you've been so sweet and kind to me. You deserve better than how I've treated you. Everything has been happening so fast and I've behaved so badly...I wouldn't blame you if you walked out that door and never spoke to me again.

"I just...I thought I knew what I wanted, and now I realise that I don't. I just don't know what to do next. And given the way things work in the Empire..." She pauses for a while, then continues quietly. "I don't know where I'll be after this."

Squeezing her hand Carlos hides the look of disappointment on his face by looking away and chuckles "You had every right to act the way you did I'm just worried about you my dear not about anything else. What is it that you thought you wanted?" trying to ignore the implications of the last part of her comment Carlos looks up at her intently curious as to this relevation.

Yvonne shrugs helplessly. "Oh, I was caught up in romance and mystery and danger and I thought, maybe, if I proved myself, I'd be rewarded for it. But it doesn't work that way, does it? Even when I do everything right, I don't always get what I want. So then I see other possibilities, other opportunities and I get confused. I'm afraid I failed this mission, and I don't know if I'll get any second chances. Even if I do, I don't know where to start over, or how."

She tucks a stray lock of hair behind her ear and smiles sadly at Carlos. "I'm not making much sense, am I? There's so much I would tell you, but I can't. I'd love to stay, but I'm just a silly girl who thinks too much of herself. Somehow, I've got to get control over myself and get back on the job. I have a duty to do, and I haven't been doing it very well."

Nodding slightly Carlos squeezes Yvonne's hand softly and smiles "We all get caught up in those things my dear, it just comes down to how we go about getting that reward."

Carlos looks around and ensures nobody else is in the room "Take me for example, all this worship and devotion to an elf and for what? Nothing but silence from Menelmacar, my dear some times we must take gratitude in the fact that we are permitted to continue on through silence. Only it gets harder to maintain that belief as the silence continues......"

Looking at the floor Carlos sighs "A second chance? If it were possible you could have that chance in Iraqstan......." looking up he smiles and takes a deep breath.

I'm not going to win this......

Yvonne stares in wonder at Carlos. Her jaw drops, and she's speechless for several moments. Then, in a whisper, "You'd have me? After all the horrible things I've done?"

She squeezes Carlos' hand tightly, then lets go and curls up on the bed. "I don't deserve a second chance. I don't deserve the kindness you've shown me."

chuckling Carlos pats Yvonne's knee softly "My dear I'm not one to say things I dont mean you dont deserve the pain you have and I would like to see to it that you never have it again....but that choice is yours Iraqstan is open to you...as am I."

standing up Carlos looks around and sighs softly "But alas we should be heading to the cafeteria m'dear they are probably growing restless although I wish we didnt have to leave right now, but we must unfortunately" looking down at yvonne Carlos holds out his hand to help her up and smiles softly "we should make a grand enterance too, one that would make them envious of such grandness."

And I need to figure out how to get the girl out of Devon's reach before she gets hurt.

Yvonne looks down at her rumpled clothing and grins wryly. "I'm afraid I look a mess. I'm not going to look very grand." Still, she stands and takes his hand.

Then she gives him a quick kiss on the cheek.

"Thank you," she whispers.

Squeezing her hand Carlos smiles at her "Your quite welcome" he whispers as he guides her to the door. opening the door he lets her go first out and smiles as he watches her.

Once outside he becomes guide once more and they begin to make their way back to the cafeteria watching her from the corner of his eye Carlos cant help but smile as they walk through the doors back into the cafeteria waving to the others he leads Yvonne to the table and smiles as he sits down "sorry for the delay. Devon did you read over the charter?" he asks smiling idly and still watching Yvonne.

Carlos m'boy I think you might be winning

Treznor looks up as Carlos and Yvonne enter the room, eyebrow raising at Yvonne's somewhat reserved demeanor.

The question is, can I trust her with my secrets, or do I shoot her? Natch.

He grins happily at Carlos and waves the freshly signed document. "I have, and I've agreed. We just need to work out the logistics."

Nathicana glances up as well, scooting back away from Devon somewhat as the two enter.

"I believe we've another partner, Carlos. As mentioned before, with proper negotiations of course, I'll be quite happy to provide transport for your people and equipment as well, Devon."

She nods to Yvonne. "Please my dear - do go and get some breakfast. I believe everything but the eggs comes recommended."

Giving Carlos a slightly questioning look, she takes the opportunity to press her foot firmly over Devons, giving him a meaningful glance when he looks over at her.

Don't even think it, boy. This is one I'd just as soon not have on what little conscience I have.

Treznor peers at Nathicana, slightly annoyed. He reads the look she gives him and scowls.

Teach your grandmother to suck eggs, why don't you? I know my job.

Then he turns back to Carlos and waits for Yvonne to fetch her breakfast. "Everything okay in there?"

Nathicana merely cocks her brow, tilts up her chin slightly, and looks back with a challenging stare, shifting her eyes when she's damn good and ready back to Carlos, awaiting explanation and the game plan. Her slight grimmace as she drinks the last of her coffee ruins it though.

Gah ... cold.

Watching the pair with amusement Carlos smirks and nods "Everything is fine I believe, and another partner why excellent! and the logistics eh, well I think Nathicana just answered those problems for you, until my people discover this fascinating technology that Nathicana scored it might be a good idea." shrugging innocently Carlos leans back and folds his arms accross his chest chuckling "I feel like the kid with a toy who just got bested by another kid's toy" snickering he winks at Nathicana.

And until someone gets a look inside those ships or my people follow up on their own ideas I'm stuck depending on her......

"Now Carlos ... look at it this way. This station is your achievement. What little I have, I've been given by others. Now I ask you ... is that truly a one-up on my part?"

She meant it as a compliment, though she felt no shame in the least at having the upper hand on transportation.

"Now, what are the plans for the remainder of the trip?"

Chuckling softly Carlos conceeds a point and smiles "Plans? well what ever you wish to do, return home spend some time up here.....which ever pleases the lot of you pleases me. Since I am but a host I am at your service with an awareness to duty and an avoidance for quality" smirking softly he sits back and smiles

"Just say it and it will be so...." winking slightly to the three of them in turn his eyes lingering on Yvonne slightly longer than the rest Carlos waits patiently.

Treznor shrugs. "We've seen the facilities, we've signed the treaty and we've partaken of your gracious hospitality. It seems to me we're done, except for the formalities. Oh, and any zero-gee games you might want to introduce to us."

He grins. "I trust there are other leisure centers aboard the station. All work and no play..."

Nathicana looks over at Devon, repressing a sly grin.

Zero gee, is it? That's right - we never did quite get to that in the gym ... just what other 'recreational' things are you thinking of, boy?

"Well, I could go for a wind down before leaving ... if, of course, that works for the rest of you? The trip back, as you know, won't take long."

Chuckling Carlos nods "That's fine with me, we should have some zero-gee fun for you both as for other leisure activities well there's sleep, the flight simulators anyone wanna pilot a fighter craft? And this place acts as a bar most of the day so..... The choice is up to you my dear friends."

Sitting forward Carlos winks at the pair of them and grins "as for other activities well.... I'm sure you both could be inventive" smirking with glee Carlos sits back and watches with a look of innocence on his face.

I need to talk to Yvonne again damnit.....

Nathicana ponders for a minute, then rises to her feet. She extends a hand to Devon with a pleasant smile, devoid of all flirtation yet again.

Dammit, this is harder than I'd like to admit. Gotten used to teasing him again ...

"What say you and I go check out the rec rooms, shall we? Those flight sims sound fun as well. You were saying on the way up you'd like to fly after all."

Turning to Carlos she smiles as well, though with no mockery, in spite of her being a touch put out at his insinuations.

Granted ... I asked for that. Last night and all ... gah. What the hell was I thinking?

"Carlos, perhaps if you don't mind, Yvonne might like some company while she eats." She glanced over to the woman finishing gathering up her breakfast. "I'm sure she'd prefer not to eat alone, and you look like you could do with a bit more under your belt yourself. Breakfast - good for the mind, you know. Keeps you sharp." She shoots him a sly wink.

"Come grab us when you're set to go. I'm sure your security won't have any trouble keeping their eye on us."

Chuckling Carlos nods slightly "Of course hijack one of the guards outside to direct you about the place at your desire." looking at Yvonne from the corner of his eye Carlos smiles at Nathicana and whispers barely "Indeed I shal...." waving to the both of them he watches as they leave chuckling softly.

Those two are going to be trouble I'm sure of it.....

Yvonne watches the exchange between the three leaders from the corner of her eye. She watches the Dread Lady and her Emperor try not to flirt and feels her blood pressure start to rise. She angrily dishes out a hefty portion of eggs to her plate and looks away.

Why do I even care? He doesn't. Then, relaxing a little. But Carlos does.

She fills her plate slowly, and feels a curious mixture of anger and relief when Nathicana and Treznor leave the room. She turns to find Carlos approaching her.

"Oh, Carlos. Please, don't let me keep you. I'll eat and catch up with you shortly."

Looping her arm through Devon's, she walks casually down the hall. She was uncomfortably aware of how good it felt to be walking this way, remembering their little tussle the night before. Her face flushes slightly, and she tries to cover with a question.

"So, where to first, Dev? What shall we dabble in now?"

Treznor hums gently in a manner familiar to Nathicana. "Oh, I don't know. I thought I might wander and see what opportunities present themselves. What do you think?"

He randomly directs them toward the science labs.

She arches a brow at the humming, knowing all too well it means trouble of one sort or other. She takes note of the direction, and ponders.

Ah screw it. This 'behaving' is killing me.

"Have some ... experimenting in mind, Dev?" she asks, grinning wryly. "Or perhaps thinking of offering yourself up for some ... comprehensive observations? Have to say, you gave me a good show last night."

Directing Yvonne to a table he shakes his head and smiles "I've nothing to do anyway business has been done and relaxation is in order" smiling softly he shrugs and sits down absently poking at the cuts and bruises on his hand before looking back up

"Besides I want to stay here with you, I like waiting on you" shrugging again he takes a sip from a bottle of water he snagged at the food line.

that and I'd rather win you.......

Treznor winks and leads the way to the secure science department. He observes the security measures in place with some interest, then leans over to nibble at Nathicana's ear.

"Any ideas?" he murmurs.

****

Yvonne watches Carlos toy with the wounds on his hand and gently takes it to inspect the injuries. She flushes at his words and focuses instead on his hand; it seems easier to handle at the moment. She dabs her napkin in water and brushes at the sores, trying to make sure they heal cleanly.

"I can be such a mother hen at times," she says with a mild chuckle.

Chuckling Carlos watches slightly and squeezes her hand "No need to explain yourself to me my dear honestly." he states simply before staring off slightly into thin air wincing slightly as she dabs at the wounds a bit too firmly and smirks "Ouch is in order there" he mutters and winks again "Thank you for this Yvonne..."

**************

A scientists walks along idly reading his notes when he almost bumps into Devon muttering apologies he asks if they are wishing to look inside the labs again and simply shrugs They were in here with the führer so why not.. pressing his hand to the scanner the door opens and he keeps it open letting them enter at their desire.

Nathicana nods brusquely to the scientist, taking the lead from Devon and walking through the doors with him.

"Well that was easy enough ... by damn the man needs to work on these folks! Then again ... forget I said it." She chuckles, looking around again with interest.

"So tell me boy ... what's on your mind? All this nonchalance," she says, giving him a knowing grin, "I'm not buying it."

Treznor shrugs, looking around as he walks casually down the corridor with Nathicana. "Well, Carlos has an awful lot of security on this area. While he's sufficiently distracted, I thought I'd have some fun testing it and seeing what he's protecting. It looks like it failed the first test: the human element."

He winks at Nathicana. "Plus, I thought we might use this as an opportunity to challenge some of your new toys."

"Some of my ... " Her eyes open a bit more wide at that. In their native tongue, she continues on in a quieter tone.

"Yes, he's been lax there. A trap, perhaps? Besides, I thought you'd warned me against such ... measures, boy. You seemed nervous as hell about that little stunt back earthside. Or are there other 'toys' you'd like to see me use, hmm?" She grins at him slyly, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Treznor winks, licking his lips slightly. "Well, there are toys and there are toys. This is your opportunity to show off. We both know just how modest you really are, Red."

"Oh, I'd love to show off for you dear, truly I would ... but I'm not convinced you could handle it." She gives him a sly wink, leaning in to whisper at his ear, brushing against him in a teasing manner.

"All the same, that mirror array from earlier certainly seemed 'off limits' yes? Perhaps we should go see what can be seen with that toy before any other play."

She ponders internally, And perhaps Ceria will prove herself here, should we run into any problems ...

Treznor nods, grinning slyly in return. "All right, you're on. Let's see if we haven't lost our touch, then." He leans forward to kiss her chastely on the cheek, then leads the way to the lab of mirrors.

As the pair walk down the hallways of the science labs they pass a rare scientist or two the rest they spot inside labs working or setting up experiments on generic laser systems, or simulations of aircraft and engine systems.

A door sits off to the left completely devoid of any fashionable designs like the others the windows around it completely reflective of the outside not the inside to the right of the door protruding from the wall is the security interface attached to it a keypad for manual insertion of over-ride commands or passcodes.

Nathi takes note of all the new things, going for a casual, aloof expression even as her fingers twitch wanting to get a better look at things. She stays focused though, heading towards the intended door.

Once there, she examines the plate meant for scanning handprints, and the keypad next to it, tilting her head and thinking for a moment.

Well, time to see ...

Confidently, not wanting to seem in doubt, she presses her hand to the pad.

The hand panel beeps softly once and then the door slides open revealing an empty yet brightly lit computer room, complete with external video camera feeds and tracking controls.

To the side sits a power switch and a wall of switches, gauges and monitors rest beside it the entirety of the room breaths of secret project and interesting discovery...

Treznor gives a low, breathless whistle of amazement. He's not sure what impresses him more: the room or the ease with which Nathicana managed to enter.

She wouldn't already be in the system, would she? That'd be awfully quick.

He looks around furtively to check for any intrusion detection devices, then steps forward to get a better look at the contents of the room and see what he can make out from the monitoring cameras.

Nathi flashes Devon a sly, victorious grin. "What, you thought I'd let a little thing like that stop me, boy? Have faith." She of course, makes no mention of Ceria or talks or agreements. Heavens no.

She looks over the security devices, the switches, the computers ... she looks casualy for a jack, not expecting one, but hoping nonetheless.

"Well, we must start somewhere," she says, turning and switching on the main power switch. "Lets fire this up, shall we?"

as Nathi pushes the switch a soft thrumming can be felt through the room as power pulses out into the consoles, camera screens and other pieces of equipment in the room.

In the center of the room the pair can hear a beeping coming from the main console beside it lay a headset and keyboard with a camera pointed away from the station other camera views around the screen show a focused look at the large mirror assembly attached to the station itself.

On the screen below the image the words "Power Startup initiated, input power strength and percentage of power to shielding systems" Off to the side of the mirrors they see a large laser mount unfold itself and take aim at the heart of the mirror assembly. A final beep from the console shows the system is ready for use.....

Treznor blinks and scans the systems quickly to try to determine precisely what they're intended for.

"I think we just rang the doorbell."

Looking over the cameras, he shakes his head. "This has to be a weapons system. Look at the configuration of the mirrors, and the way the laser is pointing toward them. I wonder how well it's been tested?"

He turns to Nathicana and grins evilly. "Shall we try some target practice?"

"Oh hell no, boy," she says quickly, her eyes lighting up as she looks over the controls, flahsing lights, and viewscreens.

"If you think we're going to play target practice with this toy, think again. I think we'd be better served looking into just what all it can do, don't you?"

She casts around for a jack, hoping that the technology Carlos had down below might have transferred over. "If I can jack in here, after all, directly ... I can get any number of stats on it. In the meantime, a closer inspection I believe, is in order."

Looking over the monitors closely, she draws on her previous training and knowledge to make heads or tails of what she can on the system. She pauses only to shoot Devon a quick look.

"Don't touch anything," she says in a warning tone ... all delivered with a terribly mischievous grin.

Treznor assumes a hurt look, as if to say I wasn't the one who did this. But he shrugs and looks over her shoulder to inspect her progress. He points to a flashing console. "Whatcha think this does?"

She grins at him broadly over her shoulder. "Like a little kid in a candy store, aren't you?" Nathi looks over the screen, idly reaching back to stroke his thigh, not really thinking about what she's doing. It all seems so familiar ... the two of them, sneaking around, checking things out.

"Well, this screen talks about mirror attitude and alignment. This one posts absorption rates. Check the numbers there ... and there. Bloody hell, we've activated the station's defense grid!"

Nathi blinks ... puts her free hand over her mouth as she lets out a suprised gasp ... and gets the giggles.

"Oh shit."

Treznor bites his lip as Nathicana strokes his leg, his body responding the way it used to at the casual caress.

Down, boy. She's just lost in the moment. Oi.

He clears his throat quietly. "I seem to recall several warships orbiting the station. You think they noticed?"

Her giggling is too infectious, and he begins to grin and chuckle. "There's no way we're going to be able to hide this, I think. Should we skedaddle?"

She gives the controls a quick once-over, still laughing softly, then shakes her head.

"I'm not sure how to shut it down. I'm afraid if we messed too much we might set off something ... bad."

Nathi turns quickly away from the controls, right into Devon, finding herself nose to nose with him, bodies close, eyes alight with an all too familiar mischief. Her pulse races, and her hands go instinctively to his side and shoulder, gripping softly in a familiar way.

"I ah ... yeah. We should probably um ... skedaddle," she says softly, her breath warm against his skin, lips nearly touching his.

Treznor clears his throat again and grins lopsidedly. "I think that's a capital good idea." The proximity of her body sets his blood on fire, and he finds himself leaning forward toward her lips...until he lifts his head abruptly to kiss her nose.

"Shall we see if we can slip back to our rooms and feign ignorance?"

Nathi grins back at him, not knowing quite what to say. Her chest heaves slightly, her breath coming faster as he leans in ... and lets out the briefest of sighs as he kisses her nose. Relief? Disappointment? Even she isn't entirely sure. She settles for nodding in response, not trusting herself to speak just then, quickly taking his hand, and heading for the door, looking like a kid caught with her hand in the cookie jar.

Still, she can't help but giggle again, stifling it behind her hand as they slip back out of the secure room and down the hallway. "Oh Dev, I haven't had this much fun in ages."

Oi, Ceria ... help me out on this one. Gods, what was I thinking?

Watching from a hidden Camera in the control room Ceria just smirks. "Silly girl, you should be more thoughtful of the gifts you've been given." she whispers to nobody but herself as she activates the remote shutdown sequence. Inside the room the lights dim once more and the soft thrumming grinds to a stop. The Monitor turns back off and the room resumes it's empty contemplative air.

In the halls A lone scientists walks along reading research notes thoughtfully entirely too wrapped up in his work. Not watching where he's going he walks directly into the path of the pair rebounding backwards his notes go flying. Yelping in fright he falls uncermoniously on his backside and looks up shocked and mortified. "I am so sorry! do forgive me!" he whimpers as he crawls towards his scattered notes completely lost in his lack of dignity and embarrasment.

Treznor frowns at the man and draws himself up to his full and sadly unimposing height. "Great Goddess, man! By the Ears of Sirithil, don't you know who I am?" He glares at the scientist as though he fully expects lightning to smite him for his audacity.

Turning bright red the scientist looks at the floor meekly "I am sorry sir, I did not mean it. Please dont tell the Führer!" Scrambling on all fours the scientit continues to pick up his papers all the time bowing and groveling to Devon and Nathicana.

"I'm just a scientist! I live up here , I'm sorry!" he squeals from the floor his glasses falling from his face in terror.

Treznor steps forward threateningly, then stops and sniffs loudly. "You're not worth the trouble to kill. Get out of my sight before I report you to the Guard." He turns on his heel and stalks off with Nathicana in tow.

Once they're out of earshot, he lets out a long breath. "Truth? I didn't think that would work."

Nathicana keeps her face schooled to a cool stillness, letting Devon pull his threatening bit with the poor scientist.

Damn he looks good when he takes charge like that ... not something I usually get to see, granted, but ... she thinks with a private laugh.

She lets her gaze pass over the groveling man as if he's beneath her notice, going for the cold, haughty approach as she lets Devon lead her off down the hall.

Only when they're out of earshot does she break down in giggles again, moreseo at his admission and relieved sigh.

"Gods, Dev," she says, grinning impishly at him. "Siri's ears? And please, you were worried? That ... that was just classic."

Her shoulders are still shaking as she continues to try and stifle her laugh, eyes alight with mischief, as they make their way back to their quarters.

"Well, sure. Haven't you ever seen her ears? Great big sails, they are. Since Carlos is such an avid fan of hers, it just makes sense." He sets a brisk pace back toward the common areas, trying to look like he belongs right where he is. "And yes, I had a doubt at first. For all I knew I was dressing down a tin-can dictator of a department head. He could have snapped back for all I knew. I was fortunate to get a spineless egghead."

"Actually, Dev, I have met the Lady," she says, her voice taking on a cool edge to it as she looks at him askance. Still, she can only hold it for so long, being rather amused at the whole thing, and she soon breaks back down into quiet, stifled laughter.

"You did fine. Another lesson to be learned, boy - tin-can department head dictator or not, never let them see you sweat, even afterwards. Had you not admitted, I'd have never known the difference. The strength you showed there ... suited you, boy. I'm impressed."

She walked briskly beside him, lost in thought for a moment, still smiling.

"You know, as fun as all this is, we really should gather up the crew and head back. Business and all, you know. Besides, we have a ride back at any time with the shuttle. No need for the long wait. Shall we go find Carlos, or did you have other ... misdeeds on your mind?"

Treznor chuckles softly. "So have I, although I doubt she'd remember it. She's very proud of her intelligence, so I took it as a challenge and snuck into the palace staff. Damn, but her bedroom is bigger than my office block."

He shrugs and tries to hide a frown. "Yes, well, you also remind me not to be cocky. So I was prepared to knock him out if he wasn't impressed by my bluff."

He nods at her suggestion. "I think we might have overstayed our welcome. I'm ready to leave when you are."

"You snuck into ..." She blinks. "No, no ... I don't want to know too much. Plausible deniability." She grins though, obviously, the gears are turning.

"Of course," is all she says to his comment on the scientist, sensing she's perhaps trod on his toes a bit. She of course, doesn't mention this, and carries on as if she doesn't notice a thing.

"Worn out our welcome? And who's fault might that be, hmm? Certainly not mine. I'd thought to go check out some zero-gee antics before we left, but oh no - you just had to go and get us in trouble. Again."

She made no pretense at grinning broadly as she spoke, her eyes once again alight with mischief, obviously teasing him. "Grab your things, I'll snag mine, and we'll go find Carlos and Yvonne together, shall we?"

Treznor grins and lets the question lie where Nathicana dropped it. "Speaking of deniability, where have we been while the station's defenses came on line? We should probably make sure we've got our alibis ready."

That gives her pause for a moment. Recovering quickly, she merely takes his hand and nearly drags him into the room with her.

"There you go, if we must ... Carlos, and I dare say Yvonne, already think we've been enjoying ourselves more than is entirely decent. Might as well make use of that."

She looks around the room, then walks to the shower, turning it on briefly, merely wetting down the stall, using the water to casually wet her hair just a bit. Wiping droplets from her face, she walks back into the room, and busies herself with 'mussing' it a bit, ending with the bed, bending down over it and pointedly rumpling the sheets, her back to Devon.

Looking to Yvonne Carlos smiles and picks at the table. "I wish there was more time for me to show you about this place my dear, I do enjoy the company you keep." Looking up he smiles softly and looks over the cafeteria spying nobody of particular importance he walks over to the line and retrieves a fresh basked pastrie from the table and one for Yvonne. Walking back he sits down and offers her one. "A snack perhaps my dear?"

Yvonne smiles at Carlos, looking a little more at ease now that she's survived an encounter with her Emperor. "I'd love to see more. It's an astounding place, really. I hope I could...visit on my next leave. I've got plenty of time accumulated."

She shakes her head briskly at the offer of a pastry. "Gods, no. Thank you, but I could barely eat breakfast. If I eat that, I might explode!"

chuckling Carlos places the pastry to the side and munches on his thoughtfully. "I'd like that if you visited us again." Is all he says and winks at her before turning his attention to the pastry at hand and nibbling away at it.

Sighing softly he finishes the pastry and looks over at Yvonne. "I do hope you've enjoyed your trip, I'd be mortified if one of my guests had a poor time in my tender care." winkiny slyly he leans back and stretches his legs relaxing entirely.

Yvonne lays a hand on Carlos' arm, her eyes imploring. "Oh no, any problems I've had were certainly not your fault. You've been absolutely wonderful. It makes me truly hope I can come back to visit."

Patting her hand Carlos winks. "My dear remember, my country and my arms are open to you when ever you wish to come back to us. Remember that." is all he whispers as he looks into her eyes.

Yvonne grips Carlos' hand tightly as she looks into her eyes, and tears well up uncontrollably. "Damn you," she whispers. "Damn you for making me hope, for making me dream. Now of all times. Damn you." Her words are provocative but her tone is mild, almost grateful.

Gripping her hand in return Carlos smiles softly. "Damn me as much as you wish my dear, but damn my by my side. I would like it immensly to have that honour." is all he says whilst his eyes search hers for a glimmer of hope or truth.

The first sign of weakness is the first sign of decay. To hell with weakness this is something I need.

Tears fall freely from Yvonne's cheeks. "I want to, I do. I don't think I have that freedom, Carlos. I don't think it's meant to be. I wish it were, though. Oh, how I wish it were!"

Holding her hand tightly Carlos looks at her intently "Yvonne, I will do what it takes to give you the life I am offering. Even if I have to break some laws in the nation of a leader whom I call a friend." he whispers as his eyes harden into a resolve far greater than anything he's ever known.

Yvonne frowns and pulls away. She wipes at her eyes almost angrily, then stands and takes her tray to the rubbish bin. She looks at Carlos again, a calculating expression on her face, before leaving the cafeteria with a determined stride. She glances back to see if he follows, but doesn't wait before she's out the door.

Shrugging Carlos sits back and resumes nibbling on his pastry. Looking around the room he nods to the odd worker and chuckles silently. Waiting a few minutes he gets up and leaves heading to his own room to pack his things.

Walking along he idly brushes his fingertips over the walls and wonders about Yvonne. "Oh all the people, she certainly gets interesting." He whispers as he opens his door. Shutting out the world he lays back on his bed and looks at the ceiling suddenly over come by grief and worry.

What've I done?

Carlos' door opens quietly, and Yvonne slips inside after a furtive look around to make sure no one is watching. Then she freezes when she finds the tip of a sword held to her throat.

"C-Carlos?"

"Yvonne, my dear!" Carlos exclaims, relaxing and lowering the sword he had brought to bear. "If you want to avoid losing your pretty head, don't sneak into my room again."

She slumps against the wall, breathing heavily. For all her work in the military and Treznor security, this is the closest she's ever come to dying herself.

"I'm being rude," Carlos announces, and puts the sword away before ushering her to sit on his bunk. "Now come, tell me. What brought you here? The way you left the cafeteria, I thought you'd never speak to me again."

Yvonne shakes her head. "No, it wasn't that. It's just that...this is dangerous. Are you serious? Would you cross the Emperor for me? Would you risk your friendship and treaties with him over me?"

"Deadly serious," he replies instantly. His voice takes on a hard edge. "I would destroy anyone who would stand in your way. Even Devon."

She frowns again, her brow furrowing deeply. "No. I don't want that. He's only ever been good to me, and never taken advantage of me. It's not his fault I imagined he wanted more. It's just that...I'm so deep in his organisation. Nobody retires from his service, Carlos. No one. I shouldn't even tell you this, but he 'retires' his ministers with a bullet. Sometimes he pulls the trigger himself. He's utterly ruthless, and if we tell him I want to retire he'll have me killed. Oh, he'll be subtle about it. I've seen him do it before. He'll make it look like an accident. But I'll be dead.

"No, Carlos. If you're serious about taking me in, we have to do something else. I have to die."

Carlos starts in surprise. "Now wait a minute --"

"No, not for real. But Em...Devon has to believe it. He has to see a body and confirm that it belongs to me before he'll let me go. Otherwise he'll have me hunted down and killed, no matter how long it takes. I know too much about him and his methods. I could be a threat to him, if I chose, and he's not the type to leave loose ends lying around. So if you're going to avoid a war with him and keep me alive, I have to die."

sitting down on a seat Carlos looks at the floor deep in thought. "If you say it must be like that then it must be. I could supply a body and have it modified to look like you. You could possibly supply a DNA sample if needed.

I just dont know how we could have you killed." Looking up he smiles and takes her hand in his. "I will gladly do this for you dear. Gladly." he whispers looking deep into her eyes.

Yvonne shrugs. "I don't know. I can think of a few ways that I could have an accident, but it all depends on how quickly we can move. I don't want anyone hurt; we could match my death with a legitimate accident, and just switch identities. I can provide DNA, of course. Anything for a chance at a new life."

She shivers momentarily and rocks on the bunk. "I can't believe I'm talking about this. But if we're going to do it, we have to do it quickly. The longer we wait, the more the E...Devon will begin to suspect. We can't give him the time to think about it."

Sitting beside her Carlos chuckles. "Dont worry about Devon. I'll take care of that, you just make sure you can be ready to disappear. I'll see if I can arrange for you to visit and evaluate my security teams. I'm pretty sure I could arrange for a terrorist attack against me. Which results in your death and my injury."

Smiling softly Carlos rests his shoulder against hers. "Unless you can think of another way."

Nathicana finishes her efforts at making the room look 'slept in' and then some, giving the room one more critical look before turning to Devon with a wry grin.

"The most fun I never had?" she says teasingly. Moving off to the side, she finishes gathering her things, packing all into her travel bag, and tossing it over her shoulder with ease.

"Well then, lets go grab your things, then gather the others. I've got arrangements to make, a team of scientists to shuttle up here, and projects to begin."

Walking over to Devon with a grin, she slips her free arm around his waist. "Shall we? May as well keep with the 'all cozy' look if we're to make this believable."

Still, she is mildly surprised to find she didn't mind playing along.

Treznor looks around appreciatively. "This place represents an enormous investment. I'm glad we managed not to blow it up. I've got some ideas for things I want to test here, too. How much to have my people shuttled up with yours?"

He slips his arm around her waist as well, falling comfortably into old routines. Dammit, if only...

She laughs softly, walking down the hall with him to his room. "What, those few you plan on sending up? Hell, Dev, them and their equipment can't possibly take up that much room. What say for old times sake we do you a favor just give them a lift?"

Nathi grins mischievously, giving him a sidelong look. "You can repay in kind sometime with something similar, hmm? After all, you're going to need ships of your own, and knowing you, you've already got some plans in the works to get them."

She doesn't offer to help, preferring to have him ask for it. And barring that, prefers to watch him scramble to catch up. She still felt rather smug about her lead on him in what was starting to be a rather entertaining competition.

Treznor smirks. "And what, pray tell, could I possibly have that you would want? Don't you, after all, have everything?"

Except, possibly, a solid economy and mastery over your people. I know how your ministers are chafing under your rule.

He ponders for a moment. "Well, we could always work out some trade treaties. My economy is doing fabulously well, but it's always good to diversify. And you know how fond I am of Dominion wines."

Nathi shoots him a look, half glaring, half wry grin.

"Do we ever truly have all we want? I think the 'wanting' is half the drive. I dread the day I find I have it all. Where will the motivation be then?"

They reach his room, and she nods to the door. "Grab your things. We can talk trade and the like over dinner. I'll make sure to have plenty of those wines on hand," she says with a smile, though the corners of her eyes tighten at the mention of his strong economy. Smug bastard.

"I'm quite aware of your fondness, boy. I'll try not to take advantage of that too much."

Checking a clock on the wall Carlos frowns. "I think we are just about out of time this trip my dear." He whispers stareing at her. "I really do hope we can sort this out.... I'd hate to have the chance to save you and give you all you desire just to lose you." Squeezing her hand he smiles softly and looks into her eyes.

Yvonne looks at the clock and stifles a gasp. "We are out of time. Carlos, darling, you've got to go. I'll get ready here. I don't know what we're going to do, or how, but we'll have to do it quickly!"

She stands and starts packing. After a moment she stops and practically shoves Carlos toward the door. "Go on! Do whatever you have to do! But whatever you do, don't let him suspect anything!"

Stumbling out the door Carlos stops outside it dumb founded as to what to do next. Shrugging he heads to the control room to speak with Ceria to see if she can track down his run away guests.

Stepping into the room the control people salute appropriately and he returns them walking up to stand beside Ceria he chuckles. "I've seem to of missplaced some guests you havent seen or heard from them have you?" He asks looking at her from the corner of his eye.

"Indeed my führer, I saw them entering Devon's room a while ago." Looking over her shoulder Ceria smiles cooly. "I think they were about to initiate some relaxing connections." She whispers softly and shrugs. "They havent left there yet I dont think.

Nodding Carlos smirks and turns to leave. "Thank you Ceria...." he mumbles and leaves once more trying to figure out the woman who refused him long ago.

Walking down the hallways he trails his hands against the walls feeling the faint thrumming of parts moving behind them. "Such innovation and power at my fingertips.... Yet I cant even move one woman from the grasps of a friend." he whispers to nobody in particular as he stops infront of Devon's door. Knocking softly he straightens his coat and brushes at invisible dust mites.

Nathicana watches Devon gather his things and change, grinning. "Don't mind me," she says, "I'm quite entert--" She jumps slightly at the knock, a flash of worry flickering across her face before she smooths it away. Walking do the door, she casts a glance back, seeing Devon pulling on his shirt.

She opens the door as he starts buttoning up. "Y-- Carlos!" Nathicana smiles warmly. "We were just gathering our things to come look for you. All set to go?"

"Hi! I'm your local agent for Zelgado station make up and beauty features. I was wondering if you'd be intereted in sampling some of our fine products?" smirking Carlos bows slightly and looks up.

"Actually I was wondering if your ready to go? Trying to round you all up and prepare to leave and all that. Aaah the life of a leader if it isnt diplomatic niceties, hostile negotiations and diplomatic dinners it's searching for friends lost in the labrynth that is a space station. All set? Just need to stumble upon Yvonne now and we are set to go." Winking Carlos leans against the door frame idly.

She laughs, putting a hand delicately to her mouth to stifle it a bit. "Actually, I'd love to sample," she says with a grin.

In fact, I've been sampling quite a bit of the features you have, boy, and if all goes well, I hope to continue.

"Ready indeed. Just waiting for that slugabout over there." She gestures over at Devon, grinning. "We can all stop off at Yvonne's, and head down to the shuttle together."

Treznor finishes buttoning up the new shirt before he stuffs the old one into his duffel. He turns his back to the others to finish packing before he slings the luggage over his shoulder. "Okay, I'm done. Let's get going."

He leads the way to Yvonne's room, not far away. "Incidentally, I think we should stop by Gothmog City, first. I've got some unfinished business there. It'll only take a moment."

Nodding, Nathicana follows along. "Not a problem. I still need to pick up Marik at any rate. We'll get Carlos home, snag the boy, and drop you and Yvonne off in Devonton."

She stretches, waiting.

Treznor comes to Yvonne's door and knocks sharply. "Hey, Commander. We're ready to go home. You coming?"

There's a brief pause before the door opens and Yvonne steps out with her gear, eyes still red and her eyes bright. She stands ramrod straight and salutes. "Ready to go, Sir." She won't look at her Emperor directly.

Treznor rolls his eyes and gestures impatiently. "All right, enough with that. Come on, then."

He gestures for one of the others to lead the way.

Chuckling Carlos shakes his head ruefully and steps to the side to allow Yvonne to walk past. smiling softly he leads them back to Nathicana's shuttle and smiles.

"Guests before host, as the old Iraqstani custom goes." He states with a wink and bows before the others to precede him.

"Oh for chrissakes, woman ... pull yourself together, Nathi mutters under her breath in her native tongue.

She starts down the hall behind Carlos without preamble making her way back to the shuttle, keying down the security system, and heading inside.

"Make yourselves comfortable - this won't take long, as you well know."

Nathi settles into her seat, putting on the headband she uses to mask her datajack, then plugs in. She shivers slightly as she feels her senses reach out into her ship, melding, overlaying. Preflight checks are run through methodically, clearance is requested and recieved from the station, and engines are fired up.

She takes the shuttle out smoothly, her focus and control precise, as is her nature. Gaining proper distance, she inputs destination coordinates, brings up the control overlay, 'reaches' out, and flips the switch.

Jump engines ... engage.

Having taken care of that, she lets the ship do its work, waiting for the alert to come through the system for dropping back out of jump.

"And there we have it. Shan't be too long."

Treznor catches a smidgen of Nathicana's mutterings, just enough to guess what she means. He nods to himself in agreement.

This is a problem. Am I doing the right thing here? I hate loose ends. Nath knows better than anybody how they can come back to haunt you.

He sighs and taps his fingers on his duffel back, having kept it near this time. Otherwise, he spends the trip in silence, unwilling to be drawn into conversation.

Sitting with Carlos, Yvonne grips his hand tightly. Her eyes are closed and she seems to be almost praying, but it's impossible to make out what she's saying.

Feeling rather good herself, Nathi glances at Devon with no small amount of concern. She judges his mood well enough to leave him be, thinking she has an idea of what's bothering him.

So much for my little jaunt. It's been fun, Dev. I've enjoyed playing with you again. I've missed you, boy. Didn't realize how much til late. Felt almost like old times, other than we didn't end up following through on all the teasing. Truth, were it not for Jaime I'd not have minded tak--

She shakes her head slightly, clearing away such foolish thoughts. She also pointedly ignored nagging thoughts from the night she'd hauled him like a sack of potatoes back to the palace Carlos had set aside for his visit.

The alert comes through, and she brings up the control overlay, disengaging the jump engines. They come out, the breathtaking veiw of the Earth before them. She reaches over and gives Devon's shoulder a gentle pat, for no reason in particular, watching out the viewport, and monitoring systems as she begins re-entry.

All goes to plan. Requests to enter airspace and land are sent out, as well as a message to have Marik meet her at the airport. All are aknowledged, and a smooth landing is accomplished. She shuts down the system, jacking out with a little sigh of remorse.

"Well .. here we are."

Patting Yvonne's hand reassuringly Carlos looks up as the shuttle touches down and sighs softly. "I wonder what Devon needs to do here...." He mutters idly and stands up to gather his things. Looking over at Yvonne again he looks almost sad and vunerable as he realises he needs to act quickly to save the woman.

"Have to talk with Nathi and Devon right soon." Is all he whispers as he waits for the rest to arrive.

Treznor fumbles with his bag, grumbling under his breath. He makes way to let Nathicana out first before following, gesturing for Yvonne to come with them. It seems unnecessary, but he's not entirely sure about her behaviour at the moment.

On the tarmac, he sighs and looks at the three of them. "It's always hard to say goodbye to friends. I'm going to miss you, Yvonne."

He pulls a gun out from his waistband, the one he'd prepared and stashed in his duffel bag. He steps forward quickly and puts it to Yvonne's head, looking into her sad eyes one more time before he pulls the trigger.

Nathicana turns in time to see him take action ... and not fast enough to react, even with her reflexes. She spins, moves forward, and yells "DEV, NO!"

Snapping into motion Carlos reaches for Devon's arm trying to stop him his eyes showing a cold distant hurt. "Devon... No please!" is all he manages as he lurches at him.

Yvonne lets out a sob as the hammer clicks sharply. She falls to her knees even as she realises she's still alive. Treznor dodges quickly before he gets bowled over and chambers a round into the weapon. He then holds it up at Nath before she can adjust and reach him again.

Thank the gods I got a measure of her speed before.

"Yvonne," he says evenly, even as he threatens the others. "You are now dead. You'll be listed as killed in action and buried here in Iraqstan. Your family will be provided with the standard compensation package, and you'll be remembered with honour in the Empire.

"But never think I've forgotten what I've done today. I'll be watching you, very carefully. You have the power to hurt me, for a while. I have to trust you, for your sake and for Carlos. If you betray that trust, the next bullet will be real."

He lowers the gun slowly and eases the hammer forward. "Do I make myself clear?"

Falling to his knees Carlos just blinks and stares at Devon. Shakeing his head he whispers "By the godess your a bastard..... But a slippery bastard. Thank you Devon.... Thank you." Standing up he looks at Devon and nods his thanks slowly.

Walking over to Yvonne he holds his hand out to her and smiles softly. "Come let us bury you my dear....." Turning to face Devon again he smiles softly. "And I promise you that you will not regret this decision my friend." Shuddering slightly he looks at the gun and then Yvonne and shakes his head once more.

Nathicana freezes as she finds herself staring down the loaded gun. Her eyes are wide, and as the seconds tick by, it's clear she's furious. Murderously so.

All the same, she doesn't twitch, her eyes locked on Devon. She doesn't seem to breathe til he lowers the gun.

"Giocato piacevolmente, voi figlio di vacca. Potreste avvertirli
almeno," she says through clenched teeth, eyes glittering dangerously, fists clenched at her sides.

She gives Yvonne and Carlos a look, half of relief and pity, half of annoyance. "Carlos, it's been ... and interesting trip. I thank you for your hospitality. Now, if you don't mind," She flashes Marik a quick gesture as he comes running up from the car, having seen the whole thing from a distance. He nods, and quietly boards the shuttle. "I'll bid you farewell for now."

She stalks past, pointedly not looking at Devon. She pauses though, and turning says to Yvonne, "Make the most of it, girl. You and I both know how rare second chances like this are." And with that, she boards the shuttle, sits down roughly in her chair, and jacks in, not bothering to use the headband.

Hurry your ass up, Dev.

Once he arrives, she starts up the engines and takes off, sitting in stony silence. She doesn't speak til they touch down in Devonton some time later when she's had time to cool.

"I'll be seeing you soon, Devon. That little dinner we discussed? Look forward to it. Just do me a favor and not have any more of these 'surprises', hmm? I'm not sure you'd survive it." She rises, intent on seeing him off the shuttle. Kissing him briefly on both cheeks, she gives him a wry smile.

"It's been ... fun. Take care of yourself boy."

And once he's gone, she settles back in for the flight home, her mind full of all manner of thoughts, and none of them particularly comforting.

Translation: Nicely played, you son of a bitch. You could have at least warned me.

Watching the shuttle leave Carlos rests his hand on Yvonne's shoulder once more and squeezes it reassuringly. "Come my dear. Lets get you home. From here on out nothing but the best for you. I'm sorry you had to go through that and I had no idea it would happen. Forgive me all the same."

Nodding silently still in shock Yvonne takes his hand and hauls herself up and smiles weakly. "Atleast I got what I wanted.... Thank you." kissing his cheek they turn and enter the waiting limo and head home Carlos' mind full of thoughts on how best to celebrate their beginnings and how best to send Devon a thank you for allowing her to live.

Now I must look after her as if she were me. For you Yvonne the world is finnaly open to you. Power and respect far beyond that of which Devon gave you....