Iron Stars - chimeran-conflict-staging

Brizeno, a planet that has often seen foreign ships in its sky once again finds itself in the shadow of another mighty fleet of war, but this time the ships are friendlier, and the landing ships bring not an army of invasion, but a labor force, bringing the necessary supplies and soldiers into space for the coming fight. The solar sailed NMC ships pull up alongside the battered but still mighty Void Wardens battleship, Ragnarock, a hero of the last engagement they fought side by side. The Elysium Protectorate, Communist Brotherhood of Stellar States, and the United Nations of Worlds all enter the system in a slow trickle over the following hours, ships slowly making their way in using varying spike routes so spies watching departing ships would not see the vast fleet all moving at once. The planet below is a staging ground, where the various soldiers and sailors of the fleet will be assembling, getting together to talk, share information, and otherwise form the bonds of brotherhood that will carry them into the coming fight. SCAF forces are pre-deployed, rumored to already be holding the southern cordon of the invasion, though soon their forces will pivot to assist Cooperative and Warden fleets. Finally, a Greystar cruiser arrives in Brizeno space, carrying a pair of agents to supplement operations needing extra support.

7

Daira lands on Brizeno with the Small Healing Flame. The Paragons small medical ship. She wears the black uniform of the Paragon's own Black Phoenix (not the Taros elite troop Black Phalanx), and is unarmed. A green bandage around her upper arm also distinguishes her as a member of the armed forces of the Protectorate. The Paragons that leave the ship, for some last walks on a planet before the armed conflict, or for other reasons, all show determination on their face. They will act in their goddess' image, and all are eager to return control of the lost worlds, back to their former leaders. Daira strolls over a small market with booths sparsely scattered over the place. And as she sees what they have to offer, she keeps an eye out for other incoming ships, or the various illustrious people of the different polities, that likely will come together here before there was no turning back.

Three CBSS mech operators stumble out of a nearby hastily-erected bar in a drunken stupor. One leans over the side to heave out their lunch. "Повезет в следующий раз!" "Better luck next time!" Ivan says with a horrendous accent and finishing off a bottle of The People's Vodka. "I told you, I can't be beat! Bring the sandwiches to my ship or I'll send my goons after you as soon as they wake up from their whiskey-nap." He and his fellow freeloaders - veteran soldiers with a variety of social inadequacies, deficiencies, and vices - was the complete opposite of the Paragon's contingent. Where the Paragons were prim and proper, one only had to look around the corner to find the Protectorate Militia and their leader burning ants with magnifying glasses while depleting the locals of all of their processed foods and shelf-stable snacks. They lived like there wasn't a war to ever be had anywhere. "DAI!" Ivan calls out, immediately recognizing his favorite Paragon. Ivan's armor still has welds in place from the giant viper that bit him in front of her. He puts his hands on his hips in mock disapproval and disbelief, all with a stupid, shit-eating grin. "Did the Paragons send one of our most remarkable initiates to hunt Chimerans? Did Cass- I mean, Khan Artema, Regent Herald and the Speaker of the Elysian Cloud, send you here? She did - tell me I'm right. Look, I don't need someone to watch my back here, I can walk and chew at the same time. I am not five years old or something. So, out with it, she sent you, right? To protect me and keep me safe?" Ivan winks.

7

Moff stepped off the shuttle onto Brizeno with small group of noctuan envoys, sent along for their offworld experience and potential use in clinicals: lab work was lab work after all, but the main pillars of the Tecmessa colony scientific division could not be spared. A few eye-catching stalls and they'd ended up separated from the rest of their group, but a bellowing shout leads them to a different set of somewhat familiar faces. The priestess and the crass mech man from the snakes. They must know something about what's going on. They click their jaws, a version of clearing the throat and interject, "Excuse me?" just as the brick wall of a human finishes babbling about his... ex-babysitter?

"Ivan! Soon to be brother in law! Cass didn't sent me, I will still watch out for you. You know I almost did not fail my field medic exam. That is good enough in times like these, where field medics are needed." And as she shouts back she realizes that a Noctua not far from her seemed to have reacted to them. Was she too loud? Whatever it was, she needed to be nice or else Priesthood could still be reject. She turns to the Noctua. Trying hard to remember if she had seen this one before, or not. It was hard to tell them apart. "Oh, hello, sorry for the shouting. Uhm, do we know each other, you seem to be Protectorate personnel right?"

"Future brother-in-law? We're not engaged... Right?" Ivan mutters to himself, shaking off the conversational riposte that so deftly took Ivan off of his comedic stride. Ivan approaches Moff as well, his gaze inquisitive as he thinks of all of the Noctuan faces he met on Tecmessa. "I think I've seen you around before. Yeah, definitely the betting type, I think. Maybe you're interested in a ration wager? Don't listen to anything she has to say about me - it's all lies and slander." He points at Dai.

Parsnips tucks his armor's helmet under his arm as he approaches. Two guards in CBSS FCUs follow, one taller and well put together in a crisply ironed and starched uniform, the other looking like he recently woke up with a raging hangover, digitally enhanced tattoos lewdly dancing up and down his arms. "Ivan, right? It's been awhile. I see you managed to best some of our fresh recruits in a drinking contest. If you ever want to try advancing out of little league, let me know."

Moff tilts their head to the pair in front of them. "I know you, Priestess, though I do not think you are familiar with me. I am Moff, of the Tecmessa Xamaynak, and on behalf of the colony I thank both of you again for your aid." They turn to Ivan specifically and say with a lilt of innocence, "I fear you're incorrect, Ivan, was it? Though even if I were, would your babysitter approve? And I am not even sure if you can consume noctua rations." They click their jaws. As Parsnips as arrives, Moff realizes that the gathering could turn rowdy, quickly. They turn back to Dai. "Priestess, I have gotten separated from my compatriots. I was sent as Field Research Support for biologicals. Would you happen to know where I might need to go?"

Daira shakes her head at Parsnips idea. "Drinking contests. That is. That doesn't show greatness. But with us Paragons here, Ognyena will still protect you all." She then turns to Moff. "Moff! Moff? Moff. I guess I read something about you in Priestess Soovi's reports. She might not be the one who prays the loudest, but she is awesome at organizing stuff. That is why I must have remembered your name. And I am not his babysitter." She points at Ivan. "He is just the reason that I have to learn how to lead an Arteman wedding. As for your unit, uh. A biologist? Is there some unit to protect you guys?"

"Sorry, didn't mean to interrupt. I'm Parsnips, by the way. Glad to meet all of you. Looking forward to working together for a good cause." He pauses for a moment. "Oh! sorry! where are my manners! Let me introduce my crew" Parsnips gestures toward his detail. "The competent looking one is Lennox. The other one is Case."

"Hello Parsnips. I am Daira. Just a regular novice of the Paragons."

"Hello Parsnips, Lennox, Case. A biologist of the botanical leanings, pious priestess. To address, I have worked under Soovi's direction recently, and I haven't the faintest idea of guards. We were meant to be briefed later." Moff's antennae wobble in their uncertainty. "But, as stated, I have gotten separated."

Rodger descended from the NMC sailing ship cutting a large figure in a clean but combat worn assault suit. Carrying weapons numerous and seemingly unused the most prominent of which being a sleek black laslock complete with monofilament bayonet and a large magnetic saw that looked like it would be more at home in a lumber camp than in the arms of a soldier. His stature and level of equipment were slightly offset by the sheepish manner of his approach. He waved lightly opening the opaque visor after the fact his young face only reinforcing the odd juxtaposition of fresh and battle worn. He gave a short salute to the group. "Sergeant Rodger Landon of the NMC armed forces. It's good to be gathered together again, though perhaps an unfortunate circumstance."

A tall and broad shouldered man makes his way out of the nearest hastily constructed bar with a mean look on his face. The human wore a sheathed sword at his hip and no other visible weapons. His hair hang down to his shoulder, just reaching the shoulders of a well worn grey cloak. While he bore an insignia of the UNW, it was apparent by his garb that he was more likely a mercenary under contract than traditional military. He gave a small nod to the others as he leaned against the nearest support and crossed his arm. Like most organized conflict, the worst part was the waiting, but there were worse things than getting paid to 'hurry up and wait'.

Groshim lands with the small Greystar delegation, one of the first out of the ship he immediately sets to work. The Wiry Ashen One rushed through the camp gathering up parts and making quick repairs and modifications, ensuring that everything is as in order as it is possible to be. At first this is only on Greystar's own ships but as he notices small tasks that need doing on the surrounding vessels he freely offers his services and sets to work among the engineers, moving with a anxious energy that is clearly visible to anyone looking. As he works he eventually ends up bumping into the group that formed. Looking up from the part in his hands he notices the people and quickly straitens as he sees all of the assorted insignias and accolades that are worn by the multiple figures as well as the obvious bonds that already exist between them. Holding out a grease covered hand he introduces himself in a fast voice. "Agent Groshim. Representing Greystar. Assume all Agents of own Polities? Look forwards to working with." (edited)

Yalone Cassidy had hitched a ride on one of the many supply ships destined to land here along with everyone else. The 'Tre sauntered out of the vessel with a certain rustic charm only Yalone could produce. Curious eyes took his vision all over the place, but if anyone where to look at him they'd notice he was wearing a poncho that extended and draped over his left shoulder and side leaving his right side exposed. A belt buckle that read NMC in giant letters was likely his way of showing who he stood for. Lastly on his exposed him rested a standard issue laser pistol. Standing at 6' tall, the 'Tre was a collage of different muddy down purples, blues, and greens with some added on mud brown for good effect. Yalone approached and tipped a wide brimmed hat towards the kind folks here. " 'ello there folks. Name's Yalone Cassidy. I'd say it's a fine day to meet ya'll, but we've had better.", he says with a half chuckle.

Daira looks puzzled at Moff. "I, we could go looking, but I fear that with that many people and ships approaching, that will be a tough challenge to overcome. Later, in space, it might be easier for you to reach them via com and relocate. I will be joining the crew of the Typhon Carrier, so you could come with me, and either stay until it is time to get to the ground, or relocate before we leave Brizeno. You worked with Soovi, so it is an honor for me to help you." She nods to all the new faces who arrived during the last minutes and is the first to shake Groshim's grease covered hands, as her Paragon diplomatic training told her. And some grease on her hand might help with the fire meditation that she will do later. "Violence and death on the horizon make for a difficult time indeed. But with so many Paragons here as well, Ognyena and her Prophet will look down on us all. And if you follow the flame in your hearts, you will come out of it, victorious and unharmed." She looks around at the booths. "Is there anything to eat one should try? And did anyone see a booth with scented candles?"

Chaotic indeed. "Greetings Sir Roger, Agent Groshim, Yalone. I am Moff." Their second name comes as a click and a trill, more of a soundeffect than galactic common. "The Chimeric expansion must be stopped. We... They... already tried the diplomatic approach and Uloth suffered for it." The surrounding air tints with a scent of bitter, burnt plastics and charred carapace. They sigh and wave the air to disperse it. Moffs hand reaches up to run through their mane and nods at Dai's offer of help. "There were some particularly tasty candles over there, around the corner at the blue tent. They use natural herbs."

Daira can't stifle a grin. "Tasty you say? Well. We can take a look together if you don't want to go lost again. Or you stay here and I get you on my way back. But one can never have enough scented candles!"

Moff looks back at the wirey Groshim surrounded by well armed warriors and responds, "If you would like the company. But if you aren't going to eat them then what will you do?" They inquire, as the pair start their little foray into the market.

A tall, lithe woman slips quietly in to the room. Her outline seems a little out of focus, and she has an almost permanent scowl on her face. She nods at everyone, "Konya.", then flits over to stand behind Parsnips, Lennox and Case.

Moff Cvk-Tarilli (Lemming)

Moff looks back at the wirey Groshim surrounded by well armed warriors and responds, "If you would like the company. But if you aren't going to eat them then what will you do?" They inquire, as the pair start their little foray into the market.

"An affinity to fire comes with being a Paragon and believer of Ognyena and her Prophet. Did you know that Prophet Daitrij received the gift to create heat and fire by our goddess herself? That at least is consensus among the Paragons. Oh and having a nice scent is like a plus for also having a flame. Meditating in front of the candle, trying to listen to the sounds of the flame, and then also being able to smell something wonderful. That is awesome." She waves to Konya as she arrives but then leaves with Moff to hunt the best smelling, and tasting, candles they can find.

"You know, everyone thinks I eat crayons, yet here's this Noctua that's clearly eaten a candle and nobody bats an eye." Ivan puts an arm around Parsnips. "Here's a deal, tough-talker - you can get your boys over there a post-hangover present by taking on the sandwich debt they accrued to me. Double or nothing, your choice of drink. Deal is open to anyone else, you're guaranteed to be drunk under the table or your sandwiches and rations back."

"Oh, we talkin' candles? I LOVE a good candle. I used to get this one that smelled like happy childhood memories. Obviously not the most tragic loss from the scream, but damn I miss it." Parsnips gives Ivan's arm a friendly pat as it lands on his shoulder. "I think you got yourself a deal, there, friend. How about we do this in style? I've got a few bottles of The Chairman's Reserve back on our ship. I can practically already taste those sandwiches."

"Haha, sucker!" Ivan thinks, his manufactured liver within his Terminus shell ready to roll. (Tidbit for you mind-readers out there that may or may not want to save Parsnips from owing one man in the Protectorate whole cargo holds of food!) "Wait, we're talking about Chairman's Reserve bottles of alcohol, right? Is there a Chairman's line of candles? ...Are they edible?" Ivan asks as they begin their walk away.

5

Rodger looked between the two groups quirking an eyebrew almost regretting putting down the opaque barrier that took away the need for expressions. "Eating candles and drinking lamp oil? Is the state of rations that bad? No wonder your go to bet is sandwiches."

"Know Geon who enjoys mineral and gemstone consumption. Comparatively candle consumption appears less unusual. Believe most species have unusual foods. Believe humans for instance favor curdled animal lactate correct? Believe called cheese? Sometimes eaten with mould?" Groshim gives a shudder as he considers eating something like that.

Konya perks up at the mention of cheese. She looks around the room hopefully, but goes back to her usual surly self when she sees none. Wish Styx was here. Bet he'd have brought cheese. (edited)

Parsnips turns and smiles at Konya. He's clearly thinking the same thing.

Yalone took in this fool hearty conversation with amusement as his wrinkled bald skin/head form in waves with the raising of eyebrows at all the walks of life here currently. Looking around he spotted the unusually outfitted NMC Sergeant Rodger and made his way to him, “ ‘ello their sir. I take it we’re cut from the same cloth.” Yalone says this pointing from his bet buckle to what formal marking Rodger has that represent the NMC. “I’d like to introduce myself, Yalone Cassidy at your service.”, the ‘Tre would tip his hat towards the much younger being.

Nekosmash started a thread. 6/3/2022 11:33 AM [Open Thread]

Rodger held out an armored hand to Yalone. "I guess we are, and we'll likely be working together soon. Have you ever boarded a ship before? Uve heard some of these folks are regulars at it, even have big suits and groups just for the task. I figure if this goes well maybe I'll be able to tag along do something similar for the nmc."

Hárrstjarna steps out into the staging area looking around seemingly a little lost perhaps as he scans the cliches and groups of people standing around chatting.

Yalone would take their hand in his and give him a hearty shake. “I ain’t ever heard of nuthin’ like that but truth be told I wasn’t nothin’ ‘important’ ‘bout more than a week ago. Whatever happens tho just know I’ll have your back when it comes down to a fight.”, the ‘Tre spoke with a heavy southern accent eluding to his rustic up bringing.

Hárrstjjarna finally spots another Greystar Agent and swiftly makes his way over to them, though trying not to appear lost as he actually thought he was.

Deleted User

"An affinity to fire comes with being a Paragon and believer of Ognyena and her Prophet. Did you know that Prophet Daitrij received the gift to create heat and fire by our goddess herself? That at least is consensus among the Paragons. Oh and having a nice scent is like a plus for also having a flame. Meditating in front of the candle, trying to listen to the sounds of the flame, and then also being able to smell something wonderful. That is awesome." She waves to Konya as she arrives but then leaves with Moff to hunt the best smelling, and tasting, candles they can find.

Daira is eventually led to a side stall with a sky blue awning and piles of bee's wax candles ranging in shape from birthday cake sticks to hulking pillars meant for midnight altars. Various herbs can be seen as flecks in the wax. Moff purchases a dozen spindley birthday candles, which are handed over in an unlabeled brown paper bag.

Nekosmash started a thread. 6/3/2022 1:14 PM [Open Thread]

Nearby, a trio of VW troopers sit on various hardshell equipment containers. They’re playing a game of chance with dice and trying to keep their trash talking to reasonable levels. It looks like they’ve been here since the VW contingent arrived and are waiting for orders.

After seeing how many candles Moff bought, Daira feels good to do so as well. Her bag gets filled with various fist sized scented candles, in different colors and and with different scents. And she buys one particularly wide candle with vanilla scent. With her heavy bag she turns to Moff. "Thanks for showing me this shop. I'll need some of them for the spike drive to our destination. To calm myself." She makes a step forward and touches Moff's chest with her hand. "Whatever may happen. Trust on the flame that burns brightly in your heart. Get guidance from it. Let Ognyena lead you through it. So that your flame burns bright and you will end up unharmed."

Nekosmash started a thread. 6/3/2022 2:09 PM [Open Thread]

Groshim smiles as the fellow Greystar recruit approaches, raising a hand in greeting. "How finding way around? Busy place."

Disembarking from a nmc trade ship is a rather mundane brunette with a laser pistol holstered to her hip and. wearing a leather jacket with the nmc logo on the back. She puts on a pair of rather bulky headphones and finds herself a spot to sit in the meeting area.

Nekosmash started a thread. 6/3/2022 2:34 PM [Open Thread]

Moff Cvk-Tarilli (Lemming)

Daira is eventually led to a side stall with a sky blue awning and piles of bee's wax candles ranging in shape from birthday cake sticks to hulking pillars meant for midnight altars. Various herbs can be seen as flecks in the wax. Moff purchases a dozen spindley birthday candles, which are handed over in an unlabeled brown paper bag.

Near the stall you can see a young man, around 30, with a mop of unruly blonde hair on top of his head and the insignia of the UNW on his shoulder. He is well armed, with a shear rifle on his back and a mag pistol in its holster. In a man-purse sort of thing you see w well worn journal, battle scarred, and for those who can sense it, arcane energies emanating from it. He is at another stall, looking at and comparing different types of exotic coffees and asking the vendor about his different blends

Unsure how to respond to Daira's deluge of faith, Moff simple responds with "And you, priestess." They feel an irony as a being of darkness and cool moonlight, but the words are meant as comfort. They turn and see the paper journal in the man's bag, and stare.

Groshim/Bivitas

Groshim smiles as the fellow Greystar recruit approaches, raising a hand in greeting. "How finding way around? Busy place."

"That it most certainly is, a lot busier than I might be used to, but, ill manage, Hárrstjarna."He replied as he held his hand out as he added an introduction.

Max walks up to the group, his Greystar uniform showing a crispness that suggests infrequent use. "Agent Groshim, It took me a while, but I found someone who'll get us those parts you were asking for." He sees Hárrstjarna and offers his hand. "I didn't expect a new agent to be assigned to this mission, but I'm glad to have you. I'm Max. Max Davenport."

"Hárrstjarna, I didn't expect this assignment either, but, none the less I am here and eager." He replied, offering his hand in return.

"Well that's the important part. I look forward to working with you."

"As I do you my friend." He added with a smile though looking around for a moment before returning his attention back to the other two Agents. "Do either of you know our Eta?"

"I'm not sure when we're leaving. In fact I don't think the fleet we're going with has been finalized yet. Unfortunately we could only spare the one ship."

"Kinda makes me wish I could earn my wings a bit faster, have my own ship to bring instead just myself." He said amusingly, casting his head a bit as he looked down at his uniform.

(NMC is planning on hitting the system where those Greystar smugglers were captured, if you want to throw in over there, I think they could use it, especially with the NMC having the fewest active people)

(Sounds good to me.)

((Alrighty then, sounds good to me as well. Should I make a departing post?))

(If you'd like, I'll kikck the mission threads off tomorrow, just working on a few details with faction leaders before I get this all going. )

((Sounds good to me, I'll make sure to be all rested and ready))

Hárrstjarna

"Kinda makes me wish I could earn my wings a bit faster, have my own ship to bring instead just myself." He said amusingly, casting his head a bit as he looked down at his uniform.

"I'm sure you'll have something to fly soon enough."

Alexander Munroe | Rusty (Max D)

"I'm sure you'll have something to fly soon enough."

"That is the dream." He said with a chuckle.

Rodger approached, brightening up when he heard the agents talking about earning their wings. "Who knows maybe we'll take something worth practicing on at the shipyard. There's nothing so thrilling and off putting as piloting a new vehicle. It's hard to go from ground forces or even marines to being behind the sticks or the captain's chair. It'll be good to work alongside each other again if a intergalactic simulation counts anyway, but I'm getting ahead of myself. Sergeant Rodger Landon, a pleasure to meet you."

"Hárrstjarna, hopefully for now a pilots chair would suit, captains chair down the road sounds nice, but,buy, wager I'd still itch for the sticks. Pleasure is all mine."

Groshim pats the new agent on the shoulder reassuringly. "Certain will receive own craft soon enough. Any ideas what wanted inside?" Turning to the NMC agent Groshim smiles and nods in greeting. "Agent Groshim. Pleasure meeting. Believe flying amongst yourselves soon. Look forwards to fighting together."

"Not in the slightest Agent ... Groshim, was just told to report here." (edited)

"More details soon. For now relax. Food, drink, anything else species finds relaxing."

He blinked a few times, though looking around expecting to see a table of refreshments. "Sooner I hope."

The Lamplighter Foundation station the Paivatar enters the system. The station in now an Arx class station and may now look much larger than the last time some here have previously seen it. Having arrived a little later Grim skips heading to the surface, but announces the arrival and awaits for the rest of the ships to begin travel to their objective.

Seeing Hárrstjarna looking around Groshim thinks for a moment. "Noticed impromptu Geon mess hall on route. Could visit? Not sure how much food compatible but likely interesting regardless."

"Definitely interesting..."

"The closest thing I think most of us could likely eat is rock candy. I imagine splitting a geode with your mouth must be neat though. Speaking of geons, do you know if Obsidia will be joining us?"

"I don't believe so. You know how it is, never enough agents to handle everything."

A free merchant still sporting a new paint job not yet completely stripped down by the hazardous environment of space makes its way to join many of the others to refuel and ready itself for the next jump from Brizeno. The crew are professional wearing their Greystar uniforms and carrying out their tasks with minimal interruption before trading a small bars of Acastus Chocolate in return for specialties from elsewhere in the galaxy. The passengers themselves are two in number. A woman looking to be in her early thirties, hair drawn up in a tight bun and wearing the typical Greystar uniform with the addition of a pain relief and compression sleeve from the elbow up on her left side leads the way off the ship's walkway. She's followed closely by a thin man wearing glistening black ceramic plated armor and a ballcap with the symbol of the Acastus Fungalhounds soccer team, his head on a swivel and a slightly limp evident. The woman makes her way over to the coffee stand Proceus is examining and shoots him a glance "What would you suggest?" She asks Proc offhandedly while looking over

Proceus smiles at the new arrival. “I’m not exactly the person to ask, but in my opinion, I think this pretzel-infused coffee looks pretty good. I don’t think I’ve had the pleasure to meet you. I’m Proceus Pompeus, resident wandering merc. Nice to meet’cha”

Credits are transferred and the hallowed pretzel infused coffee is attained "Micaela Finnegan," she extends a hand "out of curiosity how are you both a wandering Merc and the resident Merc at the same time?" She asks with a hint of amusement.

Proceus shakes the outstretched hand, then chuckles at the quip “Because I’m here now, but won’t be soon.” Then, to the vendor “I think I’ll also go with the pretzel coffee blend.” After acquiring the beans, he stuffs them away in a pouch for later brewing and enjoyment

Her mouth twitches for a moment, her first response to him strangled quickly and quietly "I reckon we're all shipping out soon. Anyone I should stop by and meet while I have the opportunity to?"

Shit. I shouldn’t have said that. Proceus registers the reaction with pain, knowing he caused her pain. “You’re the first person I’ve met. I haven’t really gotten around to mingling yet”

"Get out of here! The universes best and brightest and you haven't rubbed elbows with them. I imagine one or two of them is even rich or famous. And sure to be a riot. Let me at least introduce you to some of the Greystar pack and you can do the same for me and the boys in blue?" A little sarcasm accompanies best and brightest but the rest of what she says seems to be genuine

“Sounds good! Just warning you though, I may not be impressed with your guy’s best and brightest. We’re pretty smart in the UNW, present company excluded”

"Noted. I'll only introduce you to the very shiniest and undoubtedly superior members of Greystar, though if I'm being honest I've never met any of the ones here in person. I think that's Groshim over there" Micaela says pointing towards a wiry ashen one with another Greystar agent. "He's pretty great. If you're going to be fighting Chimeran ships he's got a bounty going with some of us. You might be able to squeeze in on that. Groshim wait up!" Micaela suddenly raises her voice and picks up the pace to combine the two groups

Proceus follows her while speedwalking, nervous to be meeting the shiniest and most superior members of Greystar, even though he was already friends with 2 planetary governors.

Groshim jumps at the sudden voice as it rings out over the bustling gathering. He relaxes slightly as he sees the familiar insignia. "Agent Michaela correct? Good meeting personally. Here for smuggler rescue? Who companion?"

Proceus extends a hand. “Hi! I’m Proceus, a bit of a merc for the UNW. It’s good to meet you. Micaela’s told me about a chimeran ship bounty?”

Micaela pipes in "Well mainly I wanted you to meet Groshim but I did mention that to lure you in."

4:35 PM

"and yes Groshim. Hopefully I can bring them home. Or at least what's left of them."

Groshim reaches forwards and takes the offered hand, trying to get as little engine grease on your hand as possible while doing so. "Pleasure meeting. Bounty intended to reward Greystar agent. But Michaela vouching enough to extend same to yourself. Details, 20k credits for confirmed destruction for frigate or above. Only valid for first 25 to claim. Funds limited." (edited)

(if we want to move into mission threads we can. We're going to be on ships in the assembling fleets at our various system edges. No one has advanced on their respective objectives or landed on planets yet, nor do we know if the enemy has ships in the void, so don't just decide we're landed or doing stuff on the ground yet. Getting there might be a whole thing)

(Hey Neko. I'm going to handle all the admin work tonight on downtime and gear readiness etc... Do you want to roll me up into the mission thread for the LDX black hole since the smugglers are located there?)

(May as well join it since you're all working toward the same thing)

The 'Tre would spot the other NMC member from across the way and saunter his way over to her. The thud of dirt to hard rubber sounded off with each footfall. "Well howdy there miss, the name's Yalone Cassidy. I reckon if we's gonna be workin' together real soon, it'd be best know yer name." (Look above in the thread for a description of what Yalone looks like)

Micaela slaps the side of her thigh "Ooh I almost forgot. A gift from Proceus here, he swears by the pretzel infused coffee around here." And Micaela profers the coffee bag to Groshim "if you're not a fan just pass it on."

“Swear is a bit of a strong word” Says Proc with a face of amusement.”After admiring the wide selection of beans, I chose this one for personal consumption. I haven’t tried it yet. Maybe the vendor has a press we can quickly brew some? I don’t want to ship out without my morning cup of joe” (edited)

Hárrstjarna nods his head to the new faces as the approach, though patiently waiting to introduce himself while they start chatting. (edited)

Dr. Alaric Moorfield

The 'Tre would spot the other NMC member from across the way and saunter his way over to her. The thud of dirt to hard rubber sounded off with each footfall. "Well howdy there miss, the name's Yalone Cassidy. I reckon if we's gonna be workin' together real soon, it'd be best know yer name." (Look above in the thread for a description of what Yalone looks like)

She pulled down her headphones and looked up at the man. “ My names Annie do you know how long we will be waiting here?”

Dasvan

She pulled down her headphones and looked up at the man. “ My names Annie do you know how long we will be waiting here?”

“Can’t be too much longer now…”, Yalone says looking around for a bit. (Looks like we should head to our thread!)

Dr. Alaric Moorfield

“Can’t be too much longer now…”, Yalone says looking around for a bit. (Looks like we should head to our thread!)

“ we better board the ship than. Don’t want to get stuck with some shit seats for the fight.”

(Not particularly interested in ship battle but Moff is there, technically, so there's some fill in until Moff gets on the ground.) Moff followed Daira onto the Typhon Carrier and a quick check revealed that they'd been meant to embark on the Lamp Lighter's Station with the other noctua, but there wasn't much consequence to being on the wrong ship. The Paragon crew was a professional sort of kind, but quite busy with the impending confrontation. Left to their own devices, the reality of the circumstances, combined with the unfamiliar vessel, strange smells, brighter lights, and disjointed memories created a panic inducing onslaught which led to Moff stuffing themself into the most comforting feeling place they could find; a locker.

1

(Going forward as combats end or missions move, I will relay what's happening for the invasion as a whole here)

9

5

Nekosmash started a thread. 6/9/2022 2:57 PM [Open Thread]

Nekosmash started a thread. 6/10/2022 1:38 PM [Open Thread]

Nekosmash started a thread. 6/16/2022 8:29 PM [Open Thread]

Nekosmash started a thread. 6/16/2022 8:31 PM [Open Thread]

Nekosmash started a thread. 6/23/2022 1:20 PM [Open Thread]

Intelligence Report

In November 2669, New Moon Cooperative informers revealed that the human population on Puradha's surface has been forced to live and work inside three arcologies on the surface of the planet, while the Chimeran overlords have relative freedom and space on the planet proper since the air mix has been tailored for them.
 
The humans are in miserable conditions, forced to process raw materials mined by prisoners in frontier resource camps into the finished consumer goods and food products the Chimerans burn through at a rapid rate.
 
A previously unknown House is in charge of this world, and it seems that the bulk of the security forces on this planet belong to them. Their Exemplar is also known to be on planet and rumored to never leave.

https://www.worldanvil.com/w/iron-stars-nekosmash/a/puradha-location (edited)

Puradha

(Which planet is that?)

(oh sorry, updated post, it was Puradha)

(there is no friendly fleet in Puradha's system is there? Sounds like a prime target for a covert insertion and a bit of Exemplar hunting)

(no one is there yet, but yeah it could be good and would help cut them off from some food supplies. We have an NMC unit going into the neighboring planet Hertes and try to soften it up from the ground, so if another group hit Puradha and got its leader, going in to mop up space defenses could be easier)

(we will also trying to make a big play by getting some informers on Uloth, not sure how likely that is for success but any info before jumping in cold would be ideal. Fingers crossed)

(VW may have a ship they could commit to a covert action there if no one has anything free. It’s already in theater)

(Silent star can probably deploy my contingent to the surface. just need to be conscious about the atmosphere. I would assume atmofilters would be sufficient?)

1

(That is the msot logical conclusion we can make with the info on hand)

(will sustainment be an issue? Sort of tempted to try and design some outposts but I don't think I'll have the tonnage to transport it. Also don't know if it's better to have the whole battalion down there or just a hit squad or 2)

(I don't think you'd be able to make a whole outpost on an enemy world. I really would rather keep this player based, since there is a lot going on already)

### Incoming Report ###
From: UNW Operations, GCG-8905
To: ISF & GSC Contingents
Re: Status Update

Listening Post at GCG-8905 has been captured as well as an experimental ship the Chimerans were working on. Information dump of the Listening Post is in progress. We will be ready to leave the system within the day and will be en route to the Chimeran core worlds.

General notice to all persons. There is evidence of at least one active Mosk uprising currently ongoing within the Chimeran Ascendancy. Be on the lookout for local resistance pockets and assist when able.

Reza Collins

(edited)

Nekosmash started a thread. 7/25/2022 11:33 AM [Open Thread]

Nekosmash started a thread. 8/8/2022 6:56 AM [Open Thread]

### Encrypted Communication ###
From: NMC Fleet Command, LXD195021
To: ISF War Fleet
Re: Chimeran Assets Uncovered

The NMC has managed to embed several intelligence assets on the planets of Hertes and Uloth. No word on operations on Hertes has returned as of yet, but we have managed to uncover several assets on Uloth including a resistance group known as the Nobodies. Based on information gathered, it seems that this resistance group might be confined to Uloth and that other movements might be independent of one another, confirmation on this is still required. It is unknown how impactful this resistance movement is, however the Chimerans I questioned seem to view it as insignificant. Additional information learned includes Chimeran assets, listed below:

- Elite Skirmishers
- Guerrilla Populace 
- Informers
- Cyberninjas

Following boarding operations our planetary invasion force is 16,800 troops strong with reinforcements available on Brizeno should they be needed. Our fleet shall remain in LXD until additional support is required or a window for planetary invasion opens.

**Stationed Fleet**
NMS Eclipse - Fleet Cruiser
Bomber x8 - Fighter
Fighter x4 - Fighter
NMS Escort 2 - Heavy Frigate
NMS Escort 3 - Heavy Frigate
NMS Rodger Young - Troop Transport (16,800 troops)

Iracus Varanu

### Encrypted Communication ###
From: NMC Fleet Command, LXD195021
To: ISF War Fleet
Re: Possible Chimeran Alliance

Additional intelligence has been discovered regarding current ship assets available to the Chimeran's and has been provided below. Additionally, there is reason to believe that the Rachk may enter the fight before long and may even be on their way for all we know.

---
It is confirmed that all three capital ships are out of the fight. 

The remaining Chimeran vessels are light displacement ships  relegated to planetary defense duties and platform support. It looks as though a contract was signed with the Rachk Warshard for additional naval reinforcements but the price and quantity of help could not be agreed upon. 

In total the remaining ships are no more then 30 spread across Chimeran worlds with nothing heavier in displacement than a heavy frigate. 

No information is listed for Uloth itself.
---

I was unable to gather additional details about this possible alliance between the Rachk and the Chimerans. However, I would urge everyone to keep a close eye out for any possible Rachk scouts in the area or possible flanking attempts. With the Chimeran's space capabilities crumbling, they will likely grow desperate and may request major support by the Rachk at whatever the cost might be. 

In light of this news, the NMC will be requesting additional fleet support to be sent from Jagrati which should arrive in the next two months.

Iracus Varanu

*New Arrivals to Brizeno Y6M2*
NMS Courageous along with 2x Aplomando Bomber stashed in its fighter bays
NMC Aegis 1, 2
NMS Benefactor

(edited)

3

#Incoming Message#
From: CBSS Revolutionary Operations
To: Combined ISF and Greystar War Fleet

We'll keep this message short. Attar has been liberated. The Chimeran defenses have fallen. Infastructure is being transferred to resistance fighters. Will report more when the smoke clears.