Play The Odds?

[7yearsbad]

Characters: (Ace)7yearsbad and...whoever
What: Ace is the go-to guy if you need a favor or a little good luck. He doesn't come cheap, but the results are worth it. Ask him. He's not likely to say "no".
Location: Fortuna's
Date: Now
Rating: PG-PG13?
Status: Ongoing | Open

When he's not dealing behind one of the gambling tables, Ace can usually be found perched on a bar stool waiting to play some rather different odds. He's always open for business, and he rarely says "no". Yes, his prices are steep, but they're worth every penny. Want that cute girl to finally look at you? Done. Looking to increase your chances at a promotion? Sure. Win a couple of rounds of roulette? Nothing could be easier. He's not a miracle-worker, but he can make your life easier- so long as you're willing to do the same for him.

So what can he do for you?

Comments

[hauntedone]

"Hey Ace." a man with a wisecracking grin and a motorcycle jacket sat down on the next barstool. "I am Runner from RPS, but friends call me Haunt. I have a package for you, if you can work some of your magic mojo for me."

[7yearsbad]

"Haunt," Ace extends a hand and an amiable smile. "Pleased to meet you. And what would this package contain? I'll be more than happy to help in any way I can, but it's got to be an even trade."

Don't you believe him for a minute.

[hauntedone]

"A working music box salvaged from the junkyard. I don't recognize all the materials used, but it is in magnificent condition. Valuable to anyone, but if you ever need something from that collector Ben Better, you could likely get a full tailored suit and have enough credit left over to keep it sharp for life."

" . . . and now you know I am setting you up for something big. Sometimes I get into some pretty nasty fights, I want a little extra nudge of luck the next time my life is in danger."

[7yearsbad]

Ace nodded thoughtfully. "That might do. I'd like to see it first. I trust your judgement, of course, but one does like to make sure before such an investment."

"As to the fighting, well, you hardly need my help," he said with a grin. "Although I hear Johnny's found a new favorite who's tough to beat. I'll be backing you, of course, should you care to challenge him. Brawler, I think they call him."

[hauntedone]

Haunt delicately lifted a box out of his coat. He unwrapped it and opened a plain if well built cedar box. In that box was another layer of cloth. There inside the wrapping was an ornate music box carved of a light green material [jade] "There she is. I hate to part with her, but if it saves my ass, it will be a trade well spent. As to the fight, I'll think about it. I don't normally like fighting in front of a crowd. It tells too many people how I fight, but I heard about this guy. I have to meet him anyway."

[7yearsbad]

Carefully, Ace lifted the little box out of its thick wrappings and inspected it. Being careful to hold it over the counter, he turned the small key only once and lifted the lid. A brightly tuned melody drifted out. While it only lasted a few seconds, the tune was sweet and had a way of lingering in the ear even after it had faded. Closing the lid, he replaced the little box in its protective case.

"Yes, I think this will do. Very well. One music box for the odds in your favor the next time you find your life on the line."

Spitting into his palm, he held out his hand to shake on it.

[hauntedone]

Haunt's expression was suddenly grim as he stared at the open hand. "Shit . . . tell me you don't need skin to skin to make this work, do you?"

[7yearsbad]

"Sorry, my personal method," Ace apologized, producing an handkerchief and wiping his palm. "No, it's not necessary. But there's no backing out once you're committed."

[hauntedone]

"Yeah I have a touch power and frankly I may show it to you if I need another stroke of luck down the line, but I am not there yet. As far as this deal consider it sealed." he said raising a glass.

[7yearsbad]

Ace nodded. "Fair enough."

Lifting his own drink, he clinked it against Haunt's. "Done."

[hauntedone]

"I have another small arrangement in mind. If you need anything delivered from time to time, I will take smaller strokes of luck, also I will send customers your way, if you send some mine."

[7yearsbad]

"I'll do that," Ace said with a nod, and made a mental not to stock up on Band-Aids.