(SE) when it lands

JACK

It sits on the tip of Jack's tongue, that urge to tell Sunjata to stop being so on edge, because the smuggler is paranoid enough for the both of them. What's more, he's much better at it, given the magic he's equipped with. But the words stay caged behind his teeth where they belong, and Jack turns his attention briefly to Haulani and the buildings that spread beyond. "Well, that changes now. Even if your neck biter has got the place covered, extra hands are worth their weight in gold," he mutters. "If we don't hear nothin' from this guy after a season, I'll take 'em down. But they stay for now."

He shoots a glance Sunjata's way. "And that means, if you please Governor, that the very same neck biter would do well to keep his hands to himself." He knows Jata knows what it means, and so he leaves it at that. No more gunning for me on my own fucking ship, Nate.

"You're damned right you will." It's enough of a yes that he thinks the Flood will understand, and they both change course for the Hanged Man, only to be interrupted by a streak of ragged black trotting along the boardwalk to them. "Oh, for fuck's sake-- no."

Jack's words are unheeded by the fluffy black cat who springs elegantly up and onto his shoulders, big yellow eyes appraising Sunjata with curiosity. "Governor," she says, clear as a bell.