No Key To This Dungeon

[Kenna Raine]

Picking up the box Kenna followed him to her quarters. She had many a different living quarters throughout her years. She was always grateful to have a bed. As she placed the box down she noticed the room to look nice and cosy. A place she may actually get a good night sleep in.

After closing her eyes and than reopening them on command she watched as he opened a box. "It's beautiful," she stated as she stared at the necklace and matching earrings in awe. Had she heard him correctly? These were for her? Lifting her hand up she gently ran a finger across the necklace. To wear something like this instead of a collar..she never thought in a million years. "Thank you," she mouthed still admiring the pieces. They were stunning and she could almost imagine herself in them.

Before she could even regain her composure he was pulling out the second matching necklace and earring set out to show her. They were equally as beautiful as the first and she couldn't help but what to try them now. She couldn't though, not now with this collar on. To get her things like this he must really see something in her.

Brushing a hand along the jewels she pictured herself wearing them in that beautiful dress attending a fancy event. She would certainly turn heads and be able to dance the night away. Taking her eyes off the jewelry she turned to her master. "Thank you, both sets are absolutely beautiful. I can't wait to get the opportunity to wear it all together." She smiled as she turned back to jewelry. Her mind had totally forgotten that she still needed a tour of the ship. Instead she was just relishing in the beautiful of her gifts.

She couldn't help but wonder why she was so lucky. There had to be other woman whom would have happily attended events with him. Woman whom were not slaves but perhaps he had his reasons.

[member="Malcom Renolds"]

 

[Malcom Renolds]

"You're welcome. And your opportunity may come sooner than you think." He said with a smile and a nod. "But that does bring something to mind. Now I believe in taking good care of my people and those that work for me. However, I do expect the best in return. You give me your all, and you won't have to worry about your needs being covered ever. Slack off and try and take advantage of my kindness...well, it wouldn't be a wise thing to do. I am very much a performance based rewarder. How well you do in my service is entirely up to you."

In truth, he hated to burst her bubble like this. But he did want to be transparently clear that things like this would continue if she completed her tasks and whatever else was asked of her well. Hopefully, she wouldn't be too thrown off by the shift in seriousness. "Now then, let's take the tour of the ship."

Coursing their way through the vessel, he showed her every inch of it. And in each room, he showed what her duties would be. He was in the middle of trying to build a team up. So while the different sleeping quarters were unoccupied, she would be requires to maintain them. However, once new crew was hired on, they would take care of their own space, equipment, and laundry. Kenna was his slave not theirs. And he wasn't about to facilitate making his hopefully up and coming crew lazy. Course, they would be allowed to buy their own slave if they really wanted one. But he doubt that would happen.

Upon arriving at his own quarters, she would see a fairly spartan room. He was a simple man who didn't need much. In one corner though was a cage with a Co-Tamp Hunting Hound pup in it. A recent acquisition that been apart of a recently successful bounty prize. "Ok now this little guy is something you won't be taking care of. He's my new hunting hound. While normally you would be tasked with his care, this breed imprints onto their owner. So he is extremely loyal and friendly with me, but aggressive to all others. So word from the wise. Don't mess with him. While I am on board, he will be in his cage. So you may enter here to take care of your tasks then. While I'm away though, if he is not with me training or working, he'll be free to roam the room. Don't enter here when I'm gone! Not if you wish to stay in one piece anyway."

"I'll actually also be storing the jewelry in here as well. Much more secure, especially once we start taking on more crew members. I don't want to risk a nosy crewmate going through your stuff because you're a slave and think he or she can take what they want. They'd be fired if not shot of course, but we might still be out the finery." Malcom had a very analytical mind. If it hadn't been obvious to that point, he usually had at least one reason for everything he did. More likely two or three. Usually this made people think him cold and distant. But while he had very logical reason for everything he did, it was also meant to be caring.

[member="Kenna Raine"]

 

[Kenna Raine]

Turning from the sparkly jewelry Kenna listened as her master spoke about his expectations of her. She nodded in understanding as he finished. She had always planned to give him her best and go above and beyond his expectations. Kenna knew there would be some trial and error as to how he may like his food cooked or bed made. She just hoped he could understood and worked with her while she got into her groove. Taking advantage of his kindness was not something she would do. It wasn't how she was even the meanest of masters had been given her all.

As he walked her through the ship Kenna took mental notes on what her duties were. The unoccupied rooms were in good shape so it would only be a matter of maintaining them. Taking care of him was easy enough as he was only one person and seemed to be rather tidy. When the crew came on she knew it would all change.

Sure she would have less rooms to care for but there would be more cooking and cleanup in common areas. Kenna wasn't a stranger of hard work it was only she worried how they may treat her. She was a slave after all and could try to take advantage of that. People she was well aware could be very cruel even if her master forbid it she doubted smugglers or whatever would care.

Once the tour was concluded Kenna found herself with a few questions. Some were ones not to ask but a few she felt were alright to. They were important to her position. "Will I be going grocery shopping with you? Is there anything specific you like eating? I wouldn't want to cook something you disliked." She highly doubted that he would let her shop alone so she wouldn't even as.




[member="Malcom Renolds"]

 

[Malcom Renolds]

Malcom pulled up a data pad that was sitting on a nearby table. It was already programmed with what stores she might need to search through to get the items she required. "Here you go. This has everything you need. Whenever we resupply, just have the goods delivered to the ship. That's what I've always done. To kriffin' lazy to go do that stuffy myself." He finished with a chuckle as he handed off the device. They ended up going over a few more minor details before he departed and left her to her duties.

Some time had gone by and more and more, Kenna was becoming a trusted assistant. Malcom continued to give her more responsibility and access to certain things. As she continually proved her worth, he began to wonder if she might be able to serve another role. That of a personal guard as well as slave. But a dangerous line of thinking this was. If he gave her combat training, would still be so trustworthy? Hell, she still had her collar on. Was it wise to give someone like that a weapon, no matter how helpful and even loyal they may have been. Wouldn't a slaves goal always be to escape? Or had he earned as much respect with her as she had with him?

It wouldn't be that day he would do anything this possibility. No, it would be weeks later before he couldn't help but come to the same thought again. The idea plagued him as he continually weighed the benefits to the risks. Finally he made a decision. Kenna's data pad pinged an incoming message. "Please come see me on the bridge, please."

[member="Kenna Raine"]

 

[Kenna Raine]

Several months had past since she had been bought by her current master. He right off the bat had been very kind to her buying her a few clothing items to get her started. He had even bought her some fancy dresses to wear. Kenna hadn't had the opportunity to wear them as of yet but she had a feeling that was coming or at least she hoped it was.

He had been the most kindness master she had ever had and the most interesting. She was used to only ever being given menial household chores no matter how well she did them or how loyal she was. She was used to being treated like property and never given the chance to do something more until him. Master Renolds rewarded her hard work with additional tasks and responsibilities. He allowed her to shine and show a little bit of who she was which she appreciated. There were even times she felt like a normal girl who worked alongside her partner whom she was loyal to. The collar though always brought her back to reality.

The relationship they had was different too and Kenna felt comfortable around him unlike any master she had before. It was ok to ask him questions or for clarification if need be. They even ate dinner together because he allowed it. Something about not wanting to eat alone which was fine with her. She liked getting the opportunity to eat at the table.

Kenna kept her datapad on her at all times just incase she was needed for a new task. She didn't want to miss a message from him and by chance make him anger especially after all he had done and was doing for her.

Sitting in one of the common room areas Kenna hummed to herself as she began to fold up the basket of laundry she had just taken out of the dryer. As she reached in to grab another item her datapad sitting next to her pinged letting her know she had a message. Clicking it she saw it simple stated to meeting him on the bridge.

Setting the clothes to the side for now, she would pick it up later, she moved to meet him on the bridge wondering what it could be that he was needing. Reaching the bridge she waited.



[member="Malcom Renolds"]

 

[Malcom Renolds]

When she entered the bridge, Malcom spun in his chair to face her. He was actually still somewhat nervous about what he was about to do. Not presently of course. If she ran, he could easily track her down. It was more so how this relationship would progress that worried him. Slaves thinking they could be free but still feeling trapped were not people to be underestimated. Although a slave she was, and a slave she would remain for quite some time, he hoped she at least did feel like one.

These thoughts were going through his mind as he stared at her quietly for a few moments trying to read any discernible tells that might give him pause for what he was about to do.. Finally, he stood up and walked on over to her. All the while, fiddling with something in his hand. Raising his hands toward her throat, he pushed a few buttons on the device he was holding.

CLICK!

The collar that had been around her neck for god only knew how long, popped open and fell away. "I don't think you need this any more." He finally said with a smile as he tossed the device away toward his chair. "Do you?"

[member="Kenna Raine"]

 

[Kenna Raine]

Despite the months they had spent together Ana was still a little on edge whenever she went to see him. He was her master after all no matter how nice he was to her. She knew her place though at times he treated her more like a partner and less like a slave.

As the collar was clicked off a hand went to her neck. How long had it been since she had gone without one? Kenna couldn't remember the last time. It was weird not having it around her neck as she had gotten quite used to it being there. She was glad it was gone though it was something to get used to.

She stayed silent for a moment before looking back up to him. "Thank you," she smiled lightly. Kenna couldn't understand why he did it but she was grateful. It showed he trusted her not to run away from him. In her mind it was a step forward to being her own person. It gave her hope for the future.

"No, I don't think I do. My neck feels different but I'll get used to it." She wasn't going to run because where would she run to? Kenna knew not where to go nor did she have any family. She was alone in the galaxy. He was kind so it was in her best interest to be loyal to him.

"Is there anything else I can do for you? Would you like a snack? I was planning to start dinner in a few hours. Burgers if your alright with that." She doubted the removal of the collar was all he want from her.

[member="Malcom Renolds"]

 

[Malcom Renolds]

He gave a soft chuckle. She was more subdued than he expected she'd be. Course, then again, it's not like her status had actually changed. Still, he was surprised. "No I don't require anything. Thank you. Also don't worry about dinner. I've made other arrangements for this evening. Speaking of which. I'd like you to pick out one of your formal dresses, and get ready. We'll be going to an upscale location this evening. Whichever dress you wish is fine."

He didn't give any further details. Instead he wished to surprise her with what was coming next. Once she had left the room, he'd put in coordinates for the ship, flip it into auto pilot, and then go get ready for himself.

Once on the surface of the planet, Malcom would be found at the loading ramp all dressed up in black and white formal wear. His form was still bulkier than one might expect. That was thanks to his soft body armor that he wore underneath. Better safe than sorry, was one of his guiding stars. He stood there patiently waiting for Kenna to join him.

[member="Kenna Raine"]

 

[Kenna Raine]

Upon hearing that he had something else planned for them and she ought to put on one of her dresses Kenna's eyes light up. He had not only taken off the collar but he was taking her out. She didn't know to wear and it honestly didn't matter to her as scurried out of the room.

Grabbing the laundry on the way to her quarters she placed it on her bed. It would have to wait as she had more pressing matters to attend to. She had to shower and get ready for whatever event her master was going to take her to.

Setting out the red dress that she had chosen Kenna jumped into the shower to quickly freshen up. Before long she had put on the red dress and was attempting to fix her hair in the refresher. It was a struggle to get the brown hair to sit the way she wished but finally after about five minutes she did. Next she put the little bit of makeup on that she had before slipping on her shoes.

The young woman knew she was taking a long time and didn't want him to wait. Luckily there was only the jewelry left. The earrings were easy to get on but the necklace was a little tougher but she did finally get it to clasp on. Taking a look at herself in the mirror she smiled and gave a little spin before rushing out her door.

"I hope you haven't been waiting too long." She smiled as she stepped up onto the ramp.



[member="Malcom Renolds"]

 

[Malcom Renolds]

Spoiler

Holy hell.....thats a lot bigger picture than i thought....

Malcom sat there propped up by the support beam for the ramp till he heard his slave approaching. At that point, he stood up straight and fixed his outfit. As her form appeared over the horizon of the ship and onto the loading ramp, his mouth cracked open slightly in wonder. Truly, he had not really thought much of Kenna beyond her increasing role on the ship. His mind flashed back to the first time he had cast his eyes upon her there at the auction house. There she was a quiet, shy, but obedient girl being poked and prodded by potential buyers all around her. He recalled the auctioneer blathering out her different skills and possible other uses to potential owners. Malcom remembered his distaste for one of the last "roles" that was said she could play.

Since then, Kenna had grown to be as important a part of his daily operations as his weapon or ship. He had grown so accustomed to her presence and well performed actions, that he hadn't noticed much of her beyond that. True, he had ideas on what he felt would be improving her overall skill set. But again, nothing really on a more personal nature outside of a trusted companion.

As she walked toward him now arrayed in all her finery, he couldn't help but be taken aback by her beauty. How could he have not truly noticed before? Well, that wasn't entirely true as he had decided to go all out for her because of what he saw. But, it almost seemed to him that he had not actually been viewing her more than as another instrument or tool. Having had a chance to get to know her, and now to see a another side of her in all her splendor he had only to be ashamed of what his own feelings toward her had been.

Malcom hoped she didn't feel treated like a slave...but, he could see how that feeling might have never really gone away with this revelation.

"I uh...no! ...Not very long anyway." He gave a half hearted chuckle to try and recover. "Well worth the wait." He finished with a warm smile and held out his arm for her to take.

[member="Kenna Raine"]

 

[Kenna Raine]

She couldn't help but smile as she moved down the ramp to where he was standing. Before reaching him she did another little twirl in her dress allowing it to move with her. Kenna had never felt nor looked like this before in her life. Even as a farm girl she had never dressed up and past masters would have never given any thoughts to giving her something like this. Kenna for the first time in her life felt beautiful and it showed in both her smile and the way she glided down the ramp to meet him. Perhaps if only for the night she could feel like a princess and not a slave.

This was a chance for her to get to know her master on a more personal level if he allowed it. She would never push him to open up to her even if she was curious. They had been spending much time together over the past few months and she barely knew him. Kenna had been tasked to keeping everything tidy and cooking which she had done. If she were to be spending her existence here with him it would be nice to know him more. She knew as a slave it wasn't her business but with all the different responsibilities she had been given Kenna felt perhaps he was different.

"You look very handsome," she smiled as she took his arm. "Where are you taking me tonight? Or is it a surprise?" Kenna questioned as she turned to look at him. The young woman had visions of a lovely meal and dancing. Well, dancing if he was up for such activities. Dancing just sounded very nice and like something one would do in such a fancy dress.

[member="Malcom Renolds"]

 

[Malcom Renolds]

"Thanks." He replied happily as he took her arm in his and headed off to their destination. "And no, not a secret. I'm taking you to one of the restaurants in the promenade area." Further details would not be very forthcoming as he'd simply say she'd have to wait and see if she inquired further.

In the end, it wouldn't take them long before they arrived. It was obviously an upscale establishment. Everyone walking in or out were all dressed in there best. The doors were opened for them as they drew near. Inside, the sounds of hundreds of conversations filtered into an indiscernible chorus of voices. The scent of many different fantastic meals filled the air.

Kenna would be able to see even from here a stage with a live band, a dancing floor in front of that, all surrounded by tables. The place was positivelybuzzing with activity. Waiters and waitresses quickly shuffling along bring food and drinks to the many patrons. Others dancing to the live music being played for them.

Malcom let her take in the moment as he spoke to the host. "Reservation for Renolds please."

"Ah yes! Mr. Renolds! Your table is already set and ready for you and your lovely companion here." Said the host enthusiastically. "Jarek here will take you now." The host finished with a respectful, but small bow and Jarek the twilek quickly stepped up and showed them to their table.

They would be sitting in a private booth toward the back of the establishment. While being a little bit out of the way and thus quieter, it still offered a good view of the stage and indeed most of the restaurant. A good place for a hunter to sit and watch. But Malcom was not on business tonight, at least not on the usual business. He was here to enjoy himself, give Kenna a chance to relax and have some, and discuss her possible future. For now though, he simply let her soak everything in.

[member="Kenna Raine"]

 

[Kenna Raine]

He could have taken her to the local diner and Kenna would have been happy. It was just nice to get out of the ship and get some fresh air. As they made their way to the destination she made a promise to herself to just enjoy herself and have a nice evening. She could be just a girl for a night, there was nothing wrong with that.

The establishment they ended up going into was beautiful. It was unlike anything that she had ever seen before. Men and woman alike dressed up in the most expensive of garments. Kenna for a second felt out of place but as she looked down to her dress for a moment any fears she had left her. She for once fit in or at least looked as if she did which was good enough.

As they were shown to their seats she could see a live band playing and than in the distance a dance floor. Kenna didn't know the first thing about dancing but that didn't matter she wanted at least one dance. Carefully scooting into the booth she couldn't help but glance around the room which the booth gave her perfect view of. Everything from the decor to the silverware was meticulous and she could tell the design well thought out. Nothing in this place was just thrown together even the napkins had a beautifully embroidered design.

Turning back to Malcolm she smiled at him staying silent for the moment as she tried to gather her thoughts. This place was stunning and to think she out of all people was here to have a good time was like a dream. "I have never been to a place like this before its beautiful and the food looks amazing. There is even dancing." Depending on how dinner went she would ask about dancing afterwards. Kenna for now wanted to focus on what she ought to get.

Picking up the menu in front of her Kenna flipped through the first couple of pages. Much of it she had never heard of before but she didn't want him to know this. "What do you think? What looks good to you?"

[member="Malcom Renolds"]

 

[Malcom Renolds]

A wide smile could be seen on Malcom's face. He was very glad to see she seemed to be enjoying herself so far, and even though the night had only begun. When she mentioned dancing however, he cast a wary eye toward the floor. "Ah yes. I keep forgetting they have that here."

Pulling up the drink menu he began to give it a once over. There was really no point, he always got the same thing. When she inquired about the food though, that choice was not as easy. Though he still had his favorites. "Hmm. Let me see...." As his eyes scanned back and forth, he continued. "I usually get one of three things here. The firaxin shark fillet, a nerf steak, or a nuna fettuccine alfredo. All are exceptionally good in my opinion. Just depends on my mood which I choose." Scanning his three preferred items for a couple more seconds, he decided. "I think I'll probably get the nerf steak today."

Folding up his menu, he passed along the drink menu. "Don't forget to look at the drinks as well. On this I won't make a recommendation though. I usually only get one drink....and don't take this the wrong way. But I don't think you could handle it. At least not right now." It was both a warning, as well as perhaps the slightest of challenges. He honestly didn't think it would go well though. So as musing as he thought it might be, it would probably be best if she stuck to something more subdued.

[member="Kenna Raine"]

 

[Kenna Raine]

The way he spoke made it seem as if he had been here before a couple times. Kenna couldn't help but wonder if it was normally alone or if he would go with a date of some sort. If she had to bet, it would be with a date as these seemed to be the place one would bring a lady that they were trying to impress. Which made her wonder why he would bring her here but the thought quickly passed. Kenna was here to have fun not question his motives.

"Umm, I think I'll try the nuna fettuccine Alfredo," she smiled with a nod as she closed the menu. It wasn't often that she made pasta for Mister Malcolm. He preferred to have meat as did she but Kenna figured this would be a little treat for herself. Grabbing the drink menu she opened it to find a wide range of different cocktails listed. The young slave had never had a cocktail nor a drink in her life so she was unfamiliar with any of the drinks. The descriptions of them made them all sound rather good.

Kenna decided it was best to take his advice and not drink what he was. She had a feeling that it was far too strong for her. She would do best for a fruity sort of drink for her first drink. The last thing she wanted was to make a fool of herself in front of him. Since she had never drank before it probably would be best to limit herself to one or two drinks. "I think I'll try the Pina Colada." She stated setting that menu down.

Before she had a chance to question him on the drink that he was getting a waiter stopped by the table. "Hello, I'm Carlos and I'll be taking care of you today. Please let me know if you have any questions or need anything. Can I get you something to drink while you look over the menu?" He smiled looking from Malcolm to Kenna waiting for an answer.

"I think we are ready to order as well." Kenna smiled taking the initiative and speaking first. Her gaze went to Malcolm for a moment for him to order. He in returned motioned for her to order first. Something about ladies..she had never been called a lady before. "I'll have the nuna fettuccine Alfredo and a Pina Colada. Thank you." Kenna stated as she finished.

The waiter turned to Malcolm. "And for you Sir?"

[member="Malcom Renolds"]

 

[Malcom Renolds]

He gave a second thought to what he was to order. And after hearing her order, he had to admit it sounded better. He had been on the fence between the two the whole time. This sealed it though. "I'll have the same thing. Except can you please bread the nuna? And I'd like a 'Reactor Core' for my drink instead. Thank you Carlos." He'd finish once Carlos began to excuse himself to get on the order.

As the man left them by themselves, Malcom smiled. "So Kenna, I wanted to talk to you about possible new roles to play in the future. With that said, you have done very well while in my service. You have been efficient, honest, and hard working. As such, I'm wanting to train you to help me on my missions. Does that sound interesting to you at all?"

He was very curious to see how she would react to such an offer. He'd be placing a lot of faith and trust in her to be loyal and kind if he gave her the skills of a warrior. Malcom also was not even sure she head the proper demeanor for such a role. But he was willing to give her a shot if she so desired it.

[member="Kenna Raine"]

 

[Kenna Raine]

As the waiter left it wasn't long until the reason he brought her here was revealed to her. It didn't surprise Kenna that he got right down to business. In her short time with him she learned that he was all business. What he was asking her was quite interesting. Thus far she had only seen glimpses of what he did and the type of missions he went on as a bounty hunter. They always did intrigue her but it had been clear until now that her duties were on the ship.

"Thank you, I take pride in all work regardless of what it is. I would be very interested in being trained to assist you on missions. I would of course still ensure the ship was kept in order." There were so many questions Kenna had for him but one at a time and she was pretty sure that he was getting to all of that. This offer gave her hope that perhaps there was life for her outside of household chores. She could assist him on missions in whatever capacity he needed. It would be nice to be able to leave the ship and get some fresh air from time to time.

Before she was able to ask any of those questions Carlos returned with their drinks before leaving again. Her drink looked delicious with a pineapple slice hanging off the side and Kenna had no doubt it tasted just as good as it looked. "What type of training would I receive? What would my duties be during missions?" She questioned before taking a sip of the pineapple coconut drink. It was really good and honestly she couldn't taste the alcohol. As great as the drink was she was more intrigued in his proposition to train her to work with him. It meant he trusted her on some level. If she was given this opportunity Kenna wouldn't let him down.

[member="Malcom Renolds"]

 

[Malcom Renolds]

He listened quietly and happily as she responded in a positive way to his offer. He remained quiet as Carlos returned with their drinks and then departed. Malcom didn't even bother to look at his drink at first. As she finished her questions though, he stayed quiet only for a short while longer. Just long enough to gather his thoughts. He wasn't exactly sure how she'd take what he was looking for. But here it went. "At first, you'll be trained in how to better take advantage of your ....feminine qualities. Essentially, there are times when targets I am looking for come to places like this and need to be lured out into the open where they can be much more easily be taken down."

He paused for a moment to try and gauge her reaction, but instead decided to simply press on. "You would also receive weapons training, hand to hand combat training, everything I know. I'd like for you to be my personal guard eventually. That is of course when you aren't performing more under cover style ops. Back on the ship, things would be business as usual. But at least this way, you'd be able to get out and about. I'd of course see to all the necessary equipment you'd be needing of course."

Finally taking a quick glance at his drink, he pulled it up and took a sip. "So what are your thoughts? Honestly. I know this could probably be a bit of a shock. I wouldn't want to be asking to much of you." Now it was time to see how much her confidence had managed to build up since he first purchased her. Would she prefer her role as a house slave? Or would she now desire something more? Something normally forbidden to people of her status in life. He could always find another merc if she said no thanks of course. But Malcom very much preferred working with those he knew.

And she had become a fairly trusted person to him. It would just be interesting to see how far she could be trusted.

[member="Kenna Raine"]

 

[Kenna Raine]

Letting the drink just sit to the side Kenna intently listened to what his plans for were for her. Never in her wildest dreams did she ever think that she would get a chance like this. The chance to be something more than just a household slave. If she wasn't mistaken it sounded as if he was training her to go on under cover missions.

The first bit was something she had never tried to do before. Kenna had seen it done before and by the looks she had gotten while walking in here felt it was something she could do. Seduce men out in the open so he could take them out.

Before answering Kenna took a sip of her drink as she continued processing all of what he said. Malcolm was putting a lot of trust in her by even offering this to her. It was a lot but she was up for the challenge. Nothing worth having was easy.

"When can we start? I have never trained in combat before so it sounds like I have a lot to learn. The sooner we do the soon I am able to assist you in running special op mission and going under cover." She stated taking another sip of her drink. Actions spoke louder than words and she would show him that she could do this. She would be a respectful, hardworking student for him. Kenna wasn't about to waste this opportunity.

"I could show you how I currently use feminine qualities as you put it. In this way you could evaluate them and let me know what to work on." It made sense in her book, he couldn't tell her how to improve unless he saw for himself. Kenna had a feeling he would agree. Lightly smiling she took another sip of her drink. Before the night was over she was getting him out on the dance floor.

[member="Malcom Renolds"]

 

[Malcom Renolds]

Malcom smirked at her last response in particular. "Very well." He said simply, picking up his drink and raising it to her before taking another sip. "We can start now if you like." She was an interesting breed he thought to himself. Time of course, as always, would be the harshest critic in revealing whether or not she had what it would take to impress him and succeed. But the fact she was so eager to try, and immediately garnered her some points.

As he looked into her eyes still gauging her quality, she'd probably realize that behind the friendly smile he usually had for was going to be a teacher that would not be lenient. Leniency and respectful kindness was or normal people or those you didn't know. Such traits could not be shown when one was teaching the ways of subterfuge, hunting, and indeed war. Those softer qualities would only yield a person incapable of handling the stress of the assignment he was now offering.

"As always, and as a fair warning, dedication, hard work, and proof of success will get you far. If I feel you are not really putting your all into this, or simply don't have what it takes, I will withdraw my offer. As allowing you to continue would be deadly to both you and I." Holding his hand out for her, he continued. "Do we have an understanding?"

Perhaps a bit overdramatic, but he wanted to impress on her his seriousness both to punish, but also reward depending on her ability to adapt. He also personally felt the handshake important. It signified in his mind, a sealed deal. Again, giving him full right (in his mind) to retaliate if ever betrayed.

[member="Kenna Raine"]