Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Shattered, and Rebuilt

*Inara is sitting on the floor in the main room of her living quarters in front of a low table working on a device contained in a briefcase. While it appears she's not wearing anything, the location of the table and the equipment are protecting her 'modesty'. She doesn't look up as she starts talking to the camera drone.*

Well, I made a mistake. Not a little one either, I'm talking about the kind of mistake that could have destroyed me. Fortunately, someone pointed it out to me and I was able to keep it from going too far.

*Inara reaches over to a datapad sitting on the table next to her and hits a button, her image is replaced for a short time, instead showing the woman she had previously been torturing in a comfortable bed.*

She was released from my custody after three and a half days. She was well on her way to the brink of insanity, my work was going better than expected. But, revelations were made and she was released...

*Inara's features darken slightly, and she jumps as the device sparks brightly.*

Only to be captured and put into the care of someone... less nice than me. They notified me of their intentions, telling me they had hoped I would detain her longer, but since I was forcing their hand... She was to be used as a guinea pig for some rather twisted experiments, her mind erased and her body used for something.

*Inara chuckles as she continues to fiddle with the wiring.*

For the briefest moment, I considered leaving her to that fate... but, I knew I couldn't do that. Not only would that have been 'not nice', but I had agreed to a contract that said I would not kill her. My actions of releasing her was well on the way of doing just that, and I couldn't allow my actions to be the ones responsible for such things. So, I did what I do best, I negotiated for her release; and now, she's for all intents and purposes, my slave.

*A triumphant grin crosses her face as she puts another panel into place.*

At first, she was highly opposed to the idea. At least, until I told her to alternative. I saved her from, not only, being used as a test subject for someone with far too much interest in archaic Sansha technology, but also from the direct wrath of one of the Directorate. Kimochi wanted her dead, no questions asked, kill her and make sure she can never cause problems again. Well, now she's mine, and I'm going to be held responsible for any actions she might take against the Family.

Which is why she's under lock and key. I'm waiting until the storm subsides, and working with her to come to an understanding about her future. It's difficult, I wanted to do horrible things to her, I still hate her with an unholy passion, but I won't have her blood on my hands.

Maybe I can rebuild something from the pieces I created.

*She sets the soldering gun off to the side in its cradle and gently lowers a piece into place. With a satisfied grin she picks up a small screwdriver and tightens things up.*

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Gifts

*Inara is seen standing outside a hangar storage room with the number 25 is stenciled into the door wearing her standard business/flight suit. Next to the door an intricate control panel for various interfaces.*

I was given a gift yesterday... information. Very valuable information... The location of the person responsible for the death of someone that means a great deal to me.

Ten Kameiras and two dozen other security personnel later... *She reaches to the console, and a picture of a mostly empty storage area with a cot and open shower are set up flashes on one of the screens. On the floor is a body curled up clutching a book asleep.* I have what I wanted, and she doesn't have her suicide implants to get her out this time.

*Inara yawns and stretches widely.*

All this work... I think it's a good night to call in early.

*As the feed closes a data burst is recorded.*

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Miracles and Curses

*Inara is seen sitting cross-legged in the main room of her living quarters with a few candles for light as she meditates.*

The irony of asking for a second chance, then being unsure what to do with it once you had it... It's not lost on me.

*Several minutes pass as she sits there in silence.*

I was approached by a woman that doesn't exist, that has no ties to anything, yet claims to have a connection with the Cartel. She told me she could get Reppy back to me, I didn't know what to do; How was I supposed to just accept that offer without question, especially knowing I didn't deserve a second chance... after what I did. But, I couldn't walk away without trying.

*Inara goes silent again for a period, not moving or opening her eyes.*

I didn't expect her to do what she did... kidnap Reppy under the pretense of returning her to her family in the Kingdom. She didn't tell me what she was planning, and I sure as hell would never have approved this scenario. That bitch killed Reppy and had the stolen soft scan reactivated and delivered to my Hangar Array in Goinard.

*She takes a deep breath, centering herself before continuing.*

I had my 'contact' locked away in a closed section of storage... nothing that would break our contract, I never laid a finger on her. I just wanted her available if I ever did decide to break our negotiated dealings; this was a special case, and the thoughts were tempting. But, suicide implants were something I wasn't planning on, and she destroyed that clone without regard.

Then... then Reppy woke up. It was like the last few days had never happened to her, like she'd just taken a long nap and I'd been living a nightmare. Unfortunately, I knew better... I tried to go with being vague, only telling her what I had to. *sigh* I couldn't do it, I couldn't bring myself to leave out the truth to her; she means too much to me to have her stay near me because of a lie.

*Yet again, Inara gets quiet for some time meditating.*

So, I did the only logical thing I could. I told her, sat her down and told her for the first time that I was scared. I held on to her for dear life, afraid she was going to disappear from my grasp... but she didn't, she told me to forget it, she couldn't remember it and she couldn't think of any reason she should leave.

I told her she was too good to me, but she just giggled and kissed my worries away.

*Inara starts reaching around putting the candles out one by one with her fingers.*

Maybe... maybe this time the miracle will last.

Sunday, June 14, 2009

Reset

*The lights are off and the only thing visible is the faint flickering of stars through a wide window with the black silhouette standing gazing out. It's impossible to distinguish any features of the person due to the darkness, not even the starlight is able to bring definition. When she does speak, her voice is in hushed tones, almost as if loud noise will break the cover of darkness she's standing in.*

One week ago today I received word that someone near to me was having problems; they canceled a contract, wouldn't respond to comms, was even drinking... Out of concern, I chanced InterBus transit and made my way to Motsu to visit her. I was surprised to find that her guards wouldn't even allow me to pass, they'd never even paused my entry before then.

Fortunately, my patience won out, and I was granted access to the Sentinel... What I found was disturbing, to say the least. A typically strong woman crippled by a virus in her interface systems, one that normally wouldn't have been a problem, a trivial thing she should have handled on her own. *a deep sigh is heard from the ink black profile* But, her mind was reeling from a blow I was partially responsible for, all but forcing her to find someone to open up to, someone to try and befriend... then the person she chose pulled the proverbial rug out from under her feet. I nearly destroyed someone I care about trying to help them.

*A sad laugh echoes in the darkness*

Maybe that's the theme of my life... destroying things, whether I mean to or not. My life on Saisio, my ties with the State, millions of lives working under Ms. Door, Jall'ns blood family, *sigh* the list goes on.

Of course, I try to clear my head by going out to the Gate and meet a few new faces... one of them gets me drinking. How he did it, I don't completely remember, but I do remember someone mentioning Koro, that bastard, and then having King remind me I'm better than letting my temper control me...

*Silence reigns for several minutes as the dark spot in the field of stars remains still.*

And now, I can't sleep. Not because I'm worried, no need to worry about what is inevitable, right? Reppy is asleep in the other room, and I broke her... I didn't want to, I did everything I could without lying to her to protect her. But it was me that ended up hurting her. *Her voice is starting to get a hitch to it.* Because I had to find out whether I'm human or not, whether I was capable of feeling the kind of love she had for me, I broke her.

*The shadowy shape moves around, it's hard to be sure, but it appears she's leaning against the window facing the void.*

It all started when I told him... I asked him to help me, again. And of course he said he'd help, but he kept asking questions; questions he didn't want the answers to, but he asked anyways. *Her voice is starting to raise and she takes a moment to breathe, starting only when her volume is back in control.* He grabbed me and held me... told me to 'let it out, dear'. I was fine, then he had to make me cry, give me permission to be weak.

I must have wore myself out, cause the next thing I know I'm hearing Reppy raising her voice, but I couldn't make out exactly what she said... there was more soft talking as I tried to figure out how I'd gotten into my own bed. Then, all hell broke loose, I heard a gunshot and was out of bed to see Vince threatening Reppy and a slave on the ground with a hole in his leg. For the first time in my life that I can recall, I froze. I was watching the man that I had fallen in love with threatening the life of the person that means the most to me aside from Jall'n.

What was I supposed to do? I always worked to protect and provide for me and mine, and it's always been simple; but when I have to protect them from me and mine... *A soft sob can be heard, but it is quickly stifled* My best wasn't good enough, I failed on so many fronts, how can I be sure I'm capable of doing what I've been doing anymore?

*Her voice regains focus as she returns to the 'story' as it were.* Reppy shot him, with the gun I gave her; it was just a fleshwound... but she shot him. And I almost took his head. Somehow, duirng the yelling match that seems all jumbled in my head now, he got whatever it was he wanted to hear; I managed to convince him to leave. I hated him so much right then, I had him against a wall, my free hand was wrapped around the handle of my wakizashi and I could have gutted him right there, wiped his memories of the night. But, instead I answered one of his questions he asked earlier, one he didn't want the answer to, and I took a kiss from him, stole it like GHSC... and it felt great.

Then, I finally get him off my ship so I can go back to Reppy. She's still curled up on our bed, she looked so fragile I held her and did my best to comfort her... but, she started asking questions, being persistent so I couldn't avoid hurting her. I told her more of the truth than she could take yet, and I watched it break her and there was nothing I could do. I watched my failure in her eyes, and I couldn't take it... I cried again, it was the first time she'd ever seen tears in my eyes, I think it scared her; but, I knew she was leaving, I don't know that I can ever fix the damage I did to her, and I know I'm not going to get the chance. When she wakes up, there will be a letter waiting on her, and she won't have to settle for giving her love to a... creature like me who can't return the same feelings.

*The stars start to shift and a station of Gallente design, but with CONCORD markings appears. The glow illuminating the room slightly, showing Inara with her head leaning against the window, her back to the camera.*

He told me he loved me too... not in those words exactly, but he said it. But we're not allowed to love each other, I don't even want to feel this. I hate him, and I don't... I'm a monster, and he says I'm not... I try to protect people, and I break them instead...

*She steps off to the side, back into the darkness. The drone records one last thing, barely a whisper before deactivating.*

Reset.

Saturday, June 6, 2009

Happenstance

*Inara is seen, yet again sitting on the long couch under the armor plate window in her main living quarters wearing her over-sized, dark blue, plush robe. She's sipping on a glass of water looking off screen with a content smile before turning to the camera drone and speaking in soft tones.*

Sometimes I wonder if things like this are because of me, or those I surround myself with... *She waves her hand in the direction she was looking a moment ago causing the drone to swivel and face the door to a lavish bedroom, the door is seen open showing a large bed with two dark haired forms laying on it, apparently still asleep, before returning to Inara.* I got a message as I got back from the gym, asking if she could visit... Apparently Reppy invited her over after their 'close-call' the other day when I was sleeping in. She apparently was in a hurry to get here... *Inara pauses in concentration for a moment* 1 minute and 20 seconds faster than it should have taken her if she was walking at her normal speed; and just fast enough to arrive as I was walking out of the shower.

We discussed typical things, work, pleasure, clothing, food... we even had dinner, Ternos was at his prime today. Talk returned to clothing, and unfortunately, Kimochi's skirt wasn't what many would call modest or appropriate for the low table and mats my dining room configuration was set for... one thing led to another, Reppy was massaging her shoulders, hints of what could happen were everywhere, then... it did.

*Inara smiles as she reminisces a bit, drinking her water with a content sigh.*

We were fairly tame... but, it was definitely an experience I wouldn't mind repeating. *Her face sobers slightly* I just need to speak with Vince before he gets the wrong idea, I made a promise to him and I want him to know that I kept it. I never pursued her, but true to the warning I gave him, I couldn't turn her away when she came to us. Besides, even if Kimochi hadn't been flashing her latex thong at me all through dinner... Reppy seemed more than excited about her joining us, and I always find it difficult to tell that girl no.

*Inara's eyes flash back off screen quickly as she holds her breath. A few moments pass before she lets it out with a sigh.*

I thought Reppy was waking up, and her curiosity would mean she'd want to see this. And since I haven't told her about the promise I made to Vince... it'd bring about a lot more questions about me than I'm willing to give her answers for at this point. Some day I should figure out what I want rather than continuing to play my part as protector of me and mine... but I don't know I could do that without knowing there was something or someone in place I trusted to fill my role in my absence.

*Inara yawns and stretches her arms above her head.*

I think I'm going to go curl up between those two, and catch up on my rest... I have a feeling Kimochi is a morning person.

Thursday, June 4, 2009

A spot of sunshine

*Inara is seen in her stationside office, large window behind her overlooking the CONCORD labeled Hangar array with many of her ships visible through the clear armor plate. Her flight suit is still crisp and Inara seems content with her cup of steaming liquid for a moment*

I did something I haven't done in a while last night, I went out with the sole intent of spoiling myself. Things only got better from there, especially when Kimochi said this set was on her.

In all honesty, the prices of the clothes for both me and Reppy would have been inconsequential, but the gesture is much appreciated. It's been a while since anyone has bought me a gift *Inara's face brightens a little more as she takes another drink* and I think I could get used to it. I'm always the one watching, protecting, and providing for me and mine... perhaps it's pride that has kept me from ever appearing to need anything.

*Inara stands and goes to stare out over the Gallente designed Hangar Array, bringing her glass with her. The camera drone follows to keep the same distance as before.*

Not sure what happened, whether it was Vince's gentle persuasion or whether it was the evening she spent with Kimochi and me... but Reppy came home with me last night again. After threatening to leave because of something that can't happen. I figured she was going to the Sentinal to spend time with her new friend, but when she said she just needed to get away from the situation... I panicked slightly.

She says she loves me, and her mind doesn't think she's lying... her biological responses tell me she was being as honest as she always is with me. Not sure whether that's a good thing or not yet; I still don't know how to define love, let alone return those feelings to someone. I hope she's strong enough to live like that; *A dry short laugh escapes her before taking a drink* I've advised other people to leave for less.

If I take the two explanations of love I asked for so far as being true... *she turns back towards the camera drone with a bit of seriousness* I'm in for a rough ride.

*Retaking her seat she allows a smile to return to her face, and without hesitation she changes the subject back to something more pleasant.*

I am looking forward to seeing Sebastien's work, after seeing what he's done with Kimochi's wardrobe... The evening dress is simply stunning, and I can't say that I've ever worn that much red. Not to mention, I can't wait to see Reppy in that delightful little green number; I'm sure it will turn more than a few heads.

Found out something interesting last night; apparently Kimochi thinks Reppy looks as delicious as I do. I have been leery of sending anyone after director information, for fear of misunderstandings and accusations of espionage... but my curiosity is peaked now. Unfortunately, I can't pursue personally... but I did warn him that I couldn't be asked to turn her away.

Speaking of Vince, I wonder what all he talked with Reppy about. I was unprepared when she met me in the 'Hook, and I didn't have a recording pin handy. Apparently, he can be taken at his word to some extent, which is good... I think.

Never had anyone aside from Vaden I needed to turn to, but with him acting like a coward refusing to find a new "destination" for his life, I can't even reliably turn there. I'm... *Inara pauses as she searches for the right word* cautious about using Vince as a support, but who else knows that side of me? Who else can I turn to though, and know they won't use my moments of weakness to control me? *Her voice starts to trail off as she finishes that thought, staring at her cup*

Perhaps... I think today I'm going to go curl back up with Reppy. Call today done.

*With a satisfied nod, she finishes her cup, leaving it on the desk before killing the feed.*