Iron Stars - cass

With the ship full of cargo and and a planet on the verge of hostilities, @Funk and her men withdraw to the ship- now fully repaired. It’s a short spike jump of one day back to Gudrun, where the information gathered during the expedition is voraciously collected for analysis

6:35 AM

(6xp, 10,000 credits)

"Alright ladies, enjoy some R+R. I'm going to see someone about something."

6:50 AM

(Is there room at the cyberclinic?)

(Sure is! There’s the colony hospital, Charles’s factory, and herbs compound) (edited)

Cass sees her squad off with a wink and saunters towards Charles' self-improvement facility, eager to browse their wares.

7:00 AM

( I guess all the really cool stuff is out of my price range for now, but it might be worth checking things out)

(Talk to Charles see if you can’t work something out too)

(Can do. Until then, Cass is raring for some action.)

8:06 AM

First things first though, it's time to debrief her commander.

Samuel kellevan has retained leadership of the colonial armed forces and makes his office in the barracks complex. It’s been more heavily fortified in the time you’ve been gone with a thick metal flat fence and an actual guard post

Cass enters and snaps off a salute, standing to attention out of habit as much as respect. She delivers a brief, precise report of the past week or so, up to the moment of the worm's demise, then awaits orders. "It was quite the fight, sir."

“And you brought everyone back alive. That’s the most important thing...Captain” He slides a small wooden box across the table, where two brass captain stars lie. They are highly polished.

8:21 AM

“It’s about time we make things official”

Cass frowns. "This is... a fairly swift promotion, sir. I've barely served Greenbriar a month." She scratches the back of her head. "I mean it's not unwelcome, of course, but... Are you sure?"

“I am. You’ve led two high risk missions with very few losses and you’re one of the very few serving now with prior professional experience. I need someone who knows what they’re doing to lead. In time there will be a proper officer corps but I am sure about this” (edited)

She snaps back to attention and salutes. "Thank you sir, I won't let you down."

“I know you won’t. See about getting some rest and then you’re free to plot future operations from there. Kincaid says you’re doing good work.”

9:22 AM

“She’s been in touch with those Remnant forces you met. We may be in for some trouble”

She raises an eyebrow. "Sir?"

“They don’t like the fact that we are harboring psychics and allowing them to roam free. They have made....some veiled threats, but it doesn’t sound like they know exactly where our planet is yet”

"And what about the reverse? What do we know about their forces, sir?"

“They’re scattered. Spike capable ships, a few of them capital class, but they’re stretched thin. They’re focused on rebuilding the empire and are wearing themselves out being galactic police. Conscription of some of our men was something they wanted. We shut that down immediately

She smiles at that. "Still, that's a fleet we wouldn't want to meet, scattered or not. Did they make any other demands?"

“Not so far but I don’t think that’ll be the last of it. This was a test I’m fairly sure”

Cass thinks on this for a moment. "What's our current strength? Volunteers too if it came to it." (edited)

“200 formally under arms including combat engineering and the supply company. Twice that in volunteers if it came to it”

"How's our fleet?"

“One underpowered cruiser. The frigate is alright. We do have the pillar of salt up there to but if fighting comes we may need it as an evacuation ship

6:22 PM

“The Lawrence can probably handle a couple small ships on its own too but I’d rather not rely on it”

Your compad beeps, a message from the lab, stating that the plant that wounded you back on the space station might cause some unforeseen health risks. Val and Melora would like to see you at your earliest convenience

(You can follow that up in awakening channel so melora sees it)

Now free of the virus, Cass and her recon squad gather outside the lab

'Thank fuck that's over' thinks the soldier. Time to find a stiff drink and a new mission!

The harvest spirits is roasting some lope outside and even though it’s far away you can smell it

Then my target is acquired.

The Baron is cleaning a few glasses sitting out as you and your squad enter. @Chris Fury (Desmond) , and Franz are finishing their beverages

@Chris Fury (Desmond) asks Franz, "How many missions do you run? You're always busy."

Cass clocks the others in the bar, nodding in greeting if they look at her as she enters but otherwise settling herself in without disrupting any conversations.

“There’s several going on at once. And more all the time as we find new things out in the void. Over there, that’s Cass. She’s as tough as they come. Led scouting parties off world a few times now and has the rank to back it up”

The captain's ears perk up and she calls over to the two with a devious grin. "And what might you be talking about, eh?"

“How captains stars look so good on your lapels” Franz winks. “This is marshal o shea, he helped turn that crisis with the trance drug on its head”

"Oho. It's a pleasure to put a face to the name!" She thrusts her hand out happily.

Desmond shakes her hand. "Same here! Congratulations on your promotion Captain!"

She shrugs. "Seemed a little sudden to me, but I'm happy to do my part for the people who saved me. Speaking of which, you up to anything interesting? Seems like we're still on shore leave until this vaccine business is all sorted, so I got time to kill and nothing else."

"I am interested in having a few drinks!" says Desmond. "We just uncovered an independent group of freelance operatives called the 'Daughters of the Lotus' which seem to have some stealth tech. One could be right near us at this moment and we wouldn't know!"

Cass frowns. "Full body stealth? I don't even remember that from before all this went down."

"It doesn't do so well if you get a lucky shot off," said Desmond making a finger guns at an invisible target. "She actually caught fire and I had to drag her into the showers. Luckily she came out fine and will cooperate with Franz and his team."

This seems to amuse the woman, who lets out a short laugh. "Ha! Nothing's a match for a hail of magfire, eh? Sounds like they're less hostile if they're cooperating then?"

"Oh, I'm no space soldier like you," Desmond says. "I'm just a cop. I followed some clues and ended up noticing a shadow where there was so substance and took a shot with my laser pistol."

4:18 PM

"It set her suit on fire. If you'd been there I doubt there would have been anything left."

She just grins at this, not denying it, before finishing her drink. "Another?"

"One more, I've got to catch a flight," Desmond says. "It will be on me."

The Baron brings back two more frothy mugs of cider

"So Franz," Desmond asks. "What do you see in the future for @Funk and I?"

5:15 PM

"Is the there going to be more military action and investigations?"

“We will be moving against the Remnant soon and I’m sure they’re not done with us. We are making some connections with the other worlds around us too. If they need help you’ll be sent out. I am sure they will with this many ships seen already. It’s going to be a long fight but I know we can win”

"Fucking right we will."

"I have no doubt about that," Desmond says. He smiles and puts his hat on which covers up his scars again. "I've got a flight to catch. @Funk Keep becoming the legend, @Nekosmash Franz keep the world running, its story is still being told. I'm going to keep chasing shadows and mining mysteries."

5:28 PM

Desmond walks to the door, his limp a little less than usual.

Franz stays behind, knowingly. Outside two cybernetic looking humanoids are waiting each clothed in armored black body gloves. “It’s time to go Marshal o Shea”

(I'll go back to Desmond. Great meeting you!)

(Same o/)

5:30 PM

"Nice bloke, eh?"

“He is. Played the hand he was dealt. There’s honor in that” Franz says, slamming down another drink. So I heard you’re all virus free now”

"So they tell me. Can't say I feel any different, but I trust that doc. Saved a couple of my boys." She knocks her own drink back and sighs. "So what's new here?"

“If I show you something you promise to keep it under wraps?”

"Hey I'm nothing if subtle, right?"

Franz moves so your shoulders adjoin and block the compad screen from those behind you. A massive flying wing shaped ship spins slowly on the screen.

12:53 PM

“the Remnant have this. It’s out there. And once they find us it’s coming”

Cass whistles an impressed tone. "The size of that hull... battleship?"

“Larger. Super massive at least.”

1:19 PM

“It might be bigger still”

"Christ. What do we know about it then, other than it's a huge bastard?"

“Some kind of particle cannon on the front no doubt. Beyond that not sure”

The captain thinks deeply for a few seconds, then nods. "So... do we know where this thing is?"

“Sil is working on looking into the future to find out. As of right now we have no idea”

"Huh. Well, when we know more make sure you let me know. I want in on this."

"He's planning to board it once more is known. It might be some weeks out, maybe even more. When we get a team together we will make sure you're on it"

"Damn right." She finishes her drink and sighs. "Guess I'll go see the top brass, find something to do until then. Never was good at R+R."

“I’ll talk to you then Cass. Good hunting”

It's not long before the captain arrives at HQ, straitening her clothing and presenting herself as best she can out of sheer habit.

"Good morning Captain" says samuel Kellevan, standing away from his desk to look out a window in his office. The door closes on smooth hinges behind you. "How are you feeling?"

"Rested, sir. I'm ready for action."

"Well with remnant forces in the area, we need to step up our scouting, and patrols. It might also make sense to re-trace the expedition's steps, and follow the path we arrived on to see what happened in the systems we left behind. There's also the deep void, between systems, that we know nothng about"

8:12 AM

Cass studies the starmap for a few moments, but a lot of the sector is closely known to her. "The stars are all still there at least, then. I'll go where ordered, sir."

"We're looking at grid 0603 as a possible deep space refueling station, for when we push deeper into the sector, the combine tells us that there used to be a station for that purpose there, stashed by a sub-rebel faction during the war, but pirates have taken over. thoughts?"

She grins. "Thinking that maybe this warrants personal investigation, sir. Pirates, you say?"

"At least one warband, possibly more

9:14 AM

"I've been given some schematics by an organization that we are....helping....taking this refueling port allows us access to it, on the condition their ships can as well. I'll send them to your compad"

9:14 AM

(ignore the law enforcement outpost stuff, i couldnt crop it out without removing other important labels)

"Interesting layout. How long before a ship's ready for departure?"

"Shuttle has just been scrubbed down from that whole disease thing, it'll be ready for you and a detachment whenever you're set to depart.

9:19 AM

"Once its clear, you'll have to occupy it for a day or two before we can get some engineers and reinforcements out to you.

"Shouldn't be a problem, sir. I'll schedule launch for tomorrow at 0600." She salutes. "Thank you, sir."

"Until then captain. I'll be there to see you off. If you need anything I'd suggest getting the supplies together now"

"I was planning on visiting the armoury after I left. I'll be back with good news, sir."

"Be safe out there Captain, dismissed:

The armory is a short walk from kellevans office and a parched looking supply clerk looks up from a datapad, sensing your approach

A pilot, @HelenP has just finished procuring her gear

Cass nods at her as she approaches, still smiling at the prosepctive mission handed to her. "Another new face. Military?"

The slim young woman, neither tall nor short, quickly finishes with something at her wrist, as her clear brown eyes -- a precise match for her short cut hair -- flick over Cass measuringly. Her posture might pass for military, but is easy and fluid. "Sometimes. Depends on who needs to get somewhere fast." Other than that wrist item, though, her only gear seems to be the simple jumpsuit she wears, and the folded up bundle on the counter. She nods as she picks it up. "Name's 'Speed', or 'Spedennelly' if you're wordy. I'm doing a chartered shuttle run that's due to leave 'port in a few hours, but I'm looking for jobs later. Pilot, driver, whatever you need, and I'm handy with repairs." (edited)

"Theres a posting open to take those three psychics rescued to the academy opening, think you two can keep an eye on them while we finish getting the shuttle prepared?"

Speed turns back to the clerk. "What? Not just the bad sensor?" She sighs. "Replacing a fuel coupling can't be rushed -- not unless we want to become pretty fireworks." "Do you know where a Captain Cassandra Mcilroy is? Her troops can't board yet.", she calls over her shoulder as she picks up the bundle, goes into a side room, shuts the door, and soon emerges without it. "And who do I talk to about that babysitting job?" (edited)

"I can tell you where Cass McIlroy is, Speed." She nods to the stripes on her uniform.

Speed blinks once at the stripes, then throws her head back in a laugh. "That saves time finding you! Pleasure t'meet you. Anything you need from me before that shuttle gets patched together?" (edited)

Cass shrugs. "You ever shot anyone before?"

Speed nods.

"Ha! Then you'll do fine. I don't make a rule of throwing naval personnel onto the frontlines but it's always nice to know your pilot can handle herself." She extends a hand. "Pleasure to meet you, Speed. Cass McIlroy."

Speed shakes hands, adding, "Just so you know, it's only if someone insists. I don't have any pistols now, though. Need to earn some creds first."

"I'm sure we can find you a sidearm. Shouldn't matter anyway, but I like to know my people are safe."

“Shuttle will be ready In the morn” the quartermaster says. “Hospitals eesspecting ya for escort shartly”

"Sounds like you'd better crack on. I'll see you tomorrow at 0600."

(where's cass headed/what did she need from the armory?)

(Nothing much really, just an armoured vaccsuit)

(They’ve got that!)

(Not anymore they haven't)

(now I know who to hide behind in combat, lol!)

Speed heads for the hospital, and signs out the vehicle she's to use. It seems fine, but she still takes times to check it over thoroughly, and to give it a once-over with a polish cloth. Then she goes looking for her passengers.

The three psychics are easy to spot. They still carry some visible wounds though all can walk under their own power. One of them, a tanned gentleman with a shaven head and beady mole like eyes waves as the vehicle approaches

Speed is slow, gently easing the vehicle in close to the trio. She hops out and introduces herself as she opens doors, offers a arm, stows the few items they have, etc. -- taking care not to jostle their injuries.

They look at the sights and chat excitedly among themselves. There is more greenery in a small park on this world than they’ve seen in their whole life before now

Speed takes her time, doing a little rubbernecking herself, curious about this colony.

The colony is organized well thanks to an early implemented urban development plan. The factories are to the east, habs to the south and west, and the large fields of sustenance crops to the north. Admin is in the center of it all, along with the lab. It’s a short drive and the streets are largely wide open due to the lack of other cars. Throngs of people are flocking down to the academy

2:47 PM

(We can go to psi academy as you pull up)

Having let the captain know the shuttle's ready, Speed waits near the boarding ramp at 0530 hours.

Cass arrives at 0540 and smiles at the pilot, fully equipped in armour and lugging her huge heavy cannon over her shoulder. "Right on time, Speed. Ready to rumble?"

@Funk Seung sends a message to Cass. "Hello I was hoping to speak to you about joining the mission and how big your group was."

(An extremely good question, we've just been calling them "the squad," of malleable size. @Nekosmash How many serve under Cass anyway?)

(9. Usual squad is 10. You’re replacing the normally assigned squad sergeant)

@Seung Whitaker (Severus/Marina) "10 including myself, more than enough to get a job done."

"I see. I can fit you on the mission if you'd like to go. You'd be on the main ship along with the most of us."

(when we did the platform mission at the lava world you only took three up to the bridge with you since the elevator was small. On planet they killed one, and there was no combat after since you and the remnant there parlayed, when you went back to the lava planet you left some of your squad behind to make room for the other PC's

"Morning, Captain, men. Ship's fully checked out and ready." Speed pauses as Cass takes the message, then asks, "Is that Seung Whitaker? He stopped by, and thought you'd be on his flight tomorrow. Some kind of mixup." (edited)

Speed warns Captain Cass, then starts the departure sequence. As the door hisses closed, and she settles into her contoured seat, she looks down at the brace of revolvers at her waist with satisfaction. Just before this job, she'd lost everything but what she'd been wearing, and even some of that had been damaged. She'd used up her last credits getting it repaired here, partly thanks to the Greenbriar supply clerk giving her a slight break on the cost. That same man, though, had been rather literal about Captain Cass' requisition for a pistol, unwilling to add any extras to the cost; but the revolvers, Lazarus patch, and packful of rations cost nearly the same as the usual laser pistol, so he'd finally let it pass. With luck, she'd only need to pay for the food later, and return the rest to him, then finally replace her usual gear using her pay from this dual mission. The engine roar rapidly grows then levels off as the shuttle, Sundagger, neatly pivots and drifts towards the mission site.

"We'll be meeting up with Seung once we drill out in the sector. This is now a joint operation before we move to support Task Force Phoenix." She grins menacingly. "Plenty of action ahead, Speed."

While the cruiser is being boarded, @Funk and @Philipwn encounter the crew from the first free merchant to dock. After a moment of sizing one another up, and some choice words from Cass, the crew decides to try to leg it back to their vessel (figured it would be easier to see in here)

(Makes sense, aye)

3:45 AM

Cass gives the signal to open fire. "Drop them, but accept any surrender!"

(Initiative)

(10)

(8 for crew. Saul needed still, idk if he wants to use his go first power or not)

(I can wait, it's cool)

(yep, using the power for sure, and shooting their head guy. Let me turn on my computer and I'll roll it.)

(Sounds great! So we have Saul, Cass and company, and then if they’re still alive the Merchant crew)

(20 to-hit for 18 damage)

There’s a flash and smoke starts billowing from the captains back and collar. The refraction field enmeshed in his coat blows out, catching the garment on fire

8:17 AM

(Cass and friends)

Cass takes no chances, putting the captain down for good ((24, 16 damage)) then calling out for the others to cease the fleeing and surrender peacefully. "Your lives are surely worth more than a magslug in the back, eh?"

“She killed the old man! Get er boys!” The crew reacts violently to their captain being shot in front of them.

9:07 AM

Their carbines fire at Cass

9:08 AM

And all miss. “Boys! Boys! we need help out here!” Further shouts of alarm are heard in the merchant ship (edited)

Cass shrugs and watches her squad send a hail of mag fire towards the fleeing crew. ((11, 22, 11, 13 -- 10, 9, 14, 14))

Two pirates are struck. Theyre wounded but still in the fight. (Saul is up)

(let's shoot at one of the injured guys.)

9:48 AM

(24 to-hit, 18 damage)

The merchant crewman goes down. He doesn’t move or struggle. (Cass herself is up)

The station shudders as a beam of energy from the unknown ship makes contact with the hull plating, burning it slightly. The other merchant ships are beginning to pull back (Not the docked one)

Cass sighs as she unleashes another stream of plasma towards the men. ((25, 16 damage))

10:50 AM

"More company. I'll try and head them off, you want me to leave my boys here with you Saul?"

Another pirate is cut down (2 left in the Hall)

Saul up

(sorry was at bagpipe concert, didn't realize it was my turn. 28 to-hit for 18 damage on a remaining pirate.)

The final pirate is killed with a well placed carbine shot. The airlock to the free merchant is undefended for the moment

(that sounds amazing)

(Yeah, bagpipes are always good. It wasn't the best I've been to, but I'm quite spoiled between having been to actual Scotland and the fact that the Ohio Scottish Games in my area are the largest in the world outside Scotland (and some years bigger than any in Scotland.))

Inside the ship, there is muffled bangs and shouts as more merchants debate with themselves and each other on staying or fleeing

A motley gang of merchant security and merchant crew round the corner, trying to get to the airlock controls near the docking ring so they can pull off without decompression

(Sorry if you were waiting on me, I thought this was happening with Saul?)

(I don't think so? Since it said inside the ship I thought that must be somewhere else. I think I'm in the station.)

(You and Saul are standing at the docking port of the station looking into the merchant ship. (edited)

3:21 PM

(You hear pirates inside and a small gang of them has come into the hatchway you can see to try to disconnect their ship)

3:21 PM

(I’m sorry I should have been more clear)

(It's cool! Just wanted to make sure)

3:31 PM

Cass shouts out in an authoritive and threatening voice as possible in the hull of the merchant. "THROW DOWN YOUR WEAPONS AND SURREDNER, OR YOU WILL BE PACIFIED FORCEFULLY. LEAVE THIS STATION AND YOUR SHIP SHALL BE BLOWN OUT THE SKY. THIS STATION IS UNDER OUR CONTROL, DON'T WASTE YOUR LIVES, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN,"

The strange heavy corvette goes up in a massive explosion close to the jump point. The space battle is in full swing. They appear hesitant

The fireheaded woman knows from experience that their hesitation is a prelude to surrender; well, half of the time. Her voice softens only a fraction. "You got long lives ahead of you if you walk out here and submit yourselves to us. You already know you'd be dead by now if we meant you to be." She winks to her sergeant. "We ain't here to kill people that don't want to die. Not us from Greenbriar."

This group of ratings surrenders, eight in total, though there is more shouting inside the ship

Cass orders a sweep. "Put down any resistance, but take it easy on the survivors. These boys ain't warriors like you lot are gonna be, eh." (edited)

“Head armsman’ll be mad. You killed his brother there”

"Aye? My drill sergeant back in boot had a saying, went something like 'talk shit get hit.' You draw a bead on a Greyhound and you die. The galaxy might have changed but that ain't ever gonna." She grins menacingly at the man. "Where is he?"

“Probably on the bridge ma’am” the young merchanteer replies scaredly

She moves her face closer to him. "He likely to be armed? Try some dumb shit that might see him dead?"

He merchantman sighs. “Probably”

"If you want a definite answer to that question, I can get it for you." Saul states while tapping his right temple.

"Fucking Minds take the fun outta everything."

Saul smiles "I'm only offering to take the fun out of it. The decision is yours."

She shakes her head with a smile. "I never take a risk I don't have to, despite what you may have heard. What are we looking at, Saul?"

"How do you plan to approach him?"

"Well I was planning on walking to the bridge and shooting the fucker, truth be. This ain't the first shi pI've stormed, and certainly not one already locked down."

Saul will Oracle he and Cass approaching the man with weapons drawn, looking for signs of hostility or surrender.

In your vision, the armsmen open fire, overwhelmed with rage at the death of their beloved captain

(how many?)

(senior armsmen, six heavy troopers, the bridge security detail

"You see anything?"

"Six hostiles. Heavy equipment."

"Surrendering?"

"Hostiles. Not surrendering."

She nods, pats her pockets, nods once more and heads off to the bridge. Once arrived, she annouces clearly. "Members of the bridge, I know you are upset about recetn events, but there is no need to sacrifice yourselves over this. We would prefer a peaceful end to this, beleive me. I shall give you 10 seconds to throw your weapons into this hallway, which I shall take as your surrender. Otherwise, I shall assume you wish to die this day, and I shall personally make sure that your wish is granted. 9 seconds now."

One weapon is thrown into the hallway. There is a single gunshot, and the sound of a body hitting the floor from behind the door

8:34 PM

Then, silence

"Fucking Savages." Cass muters to herself as she primes her armoured vaccsuit, then a grenade.

8:38 PM

"Might want to hold onto something Saul, there's a chance this could pop the ceroglass." After a few more seconds the grenade is lobbed around the corner into the room, half a second before it is primed to explode.

(roll damage, three failed the save, two pass, and the sergeant passes)

(It’s 2d6)

(Sorry, I just woke up. And it's a pitiful 3)

(You’re good. I had the book in front of me so I figured I’d make it easy)

8:07 AM

The grenade bounces around the corner and there is an explosion. The airbursting weapon sends shrapnel across the bridge causing light wounds to the security team.

8:07 AM

(Let’s do initiative)

(8)

(automatically first)

(crew even if they tie will go last. Saul up. There’s a metal sliding door that is closed right now between you and the bridge team)

(wait, how did we throw the grenade in, then?)

(It slides open when stuff comes near it)

9:25 AM

(Like an automatic door) (edited)

(Ah, gotcha. I'll be home in a few minutes, I can roll then. Sorry for the delay.)

(No rush! I’m rotting at my desk for mandatory attendance Saturday all day)

Saul twists out of cover, getting just close enough to the door to prompt it open before firing a shot (12 to-hit for 10 damage, 3 damage in the likely event that misses), and then turns back behind cover, reloading his carbine (Gunslinger).

(They’ll take the shock damage). Cass is next

Cass takes a few shots around the corner at the man she assumed killed his ally. (12, 17 damage. I'll use my warrior skill if it misses)

(You’ll have to use it but it’ll cause 17)

10:28 AM

(Is your squad with you or are they handling the surrenders?)

(They're holding the other shi piirc)

(Alright. I thought so too but it’s good to be sure)

11:49 AM

Bridge defense is up.

11:51 AM

(17 damage on Cass. One shot was a crit. 3 on Saul) The pirates split their fire between both of you as the door slides open. A hail of solid rounds bursts into the hallway, denting deck plates, sparking off walls and blowing out control panels.

(Saul up)_

(I had to unplug my computer to move all its cords off the ground because we're expecting a hell of a storm tonight and might flood. You'll need to roll for me, please, but Saul will do exactly as he did last time, but use a burst.)

(sure! and smart thinking. Where you at saul? if its anything like how its been raining here i might be fucked for dnd tonight)

(northern Ohio, but apparently I was wrong and the storm is supposed to get here tomorrow morning, not tonight.)

(We mnust have just had it then, heading your way, its pretty steady rain. yesterday was downright evil though)

(22 hhit, 11 damage)

One of the pirates is winged by the shot, wounded, but not dead

4:46 PM

(cass)

Cass spits a mouthful of blood onto the floor of the bridge as she charges in, taking out the offender with a mag spike to the chest. (29, 18 damage)

(So you've moved into the room?"

5:05 PM

One merchant security officer is cut down by the spike, dead before he hits the ground

(Indeed)

The pirates are up next.

6:21 PM

Three shots at Cass. Two at Saul

6:23 PM

(3 damage to cass, 16 to saul, i just went right to left across the rolls there)

6:24 PM

The bridge crew is putting all their anger into their shots, continuing to send hails of solid rounds into the room

(How many are left alive?)

(5 now)

(Oh shoot, it's my turn isn't it? Rinse and repeat, fire a burst at a guy. Let me know if I get below 20hp or so.)

(12 to hit 3 shock damage). Cass is next

(nah, these guys hit hard, I'll give myself a re-roll on that.)

The soldier is shot through the head, his body collapsing on that of his fellow

9:24 PM

There are four left. Splitting fire

9:26 PM

Cass is next

The captain's face is a mask of determination and amusement as she throws another slug towards resistance before ducking behind a nav console for cover. (16, 21 damage) "I don't want to put you all down but swear to fuck I'll do it! Surrender now or take the next shot!"

(Another merchant is down). With over half the squad dead, they surrender

"Why do they always do things the hard way?"

9:55 AM

@Seung Whitaker (Severus/Marina) "Alright, we're clear. Threat's been pacified."

They throw their weapons into the center of the space between you, as gently as they can

The space battle has likewise concluded with a free merchant and cruiser coming in to join the growing fleet

12:28 PM

Sil radios asking about wounds or casualties

(3xp, 10,000 credits for both of you)

(Thanks)

(@Nekosmash I'll do this here to try and mitigate clusterfucking) The skirmish is over, and after securing the station and seeing to any injuries her men have, Captain McIlroy sees an opportunity. After surveying the spoils of battle, she asks her second-in-command Lieutenant Vime to gather the more agreeable prisoners in one place, where Cass addresses them with her usual enthusiasm. "Right then. I've always preferred action over words, so I'm not going to stand here wasting anyone's time. The charcoal grey corvette we commandeered, how many of you lot served on her?"

About a dozen hands go up

"Right. What's her story? And don't piss me around."

“She’s peculiar. Lots of quirks. Lots of maintaining to keep her going. Everyone’s cross trained and a bit of an expert by now though”

Cass gets a message from kelbore at the factory that the salvaged corvette, raise from the sea of gudrun and refitted, is ready

She sends a message back thanking him for his work. "Yeah I bet, but what I wanted to know was why the hell she's here at a pirate station? Or, to make things as plain as day, why the fuck you shouldn't be spaced in the next half an hour?"

“We can serve on her again, if it means our lives. You wouldn’t have given us a chance to surrender just to kill us anyway”

Cass grins at the man. "Is that so? Where I was trained, you end up with two types of people in your squad. The loyal, and the dead. I don't need to be worrying about my back when we're charging headlong into fire. Age old tale, but truer than ever right now. So I'll ask you again, and this time I'll get an answer. What were you doing docking at a pirate station?"

“Captain was looking to take on some food and fuel so we could jump to a new sector. Didn’t want to get caught in the middle of the war we saw was brewing. Looks like it happened anyway”

(Do I buy that?)

(It’s consistent with what their captain said too and he’s cooperated with you guys unquestioningly in that second battle you just fought. He lured that one free merchant in)

"What's your name?"

“Dewitt ma’am. Newton Dewitt”

"Alright then, Newton. In lieu of your performance in that last skirmish I'm willing to take your you at your word. Our team back home has retooled your vessel and placed it under my command, and my first act as her captain is to put her back in your hands. You work for me now, which means you work for Greenbriar, with everything that comes with that. Tell your people they can join us or fuck off, it's all the same to me. Word of warning though; I get even a hint that some of you are plotting revenge or mutiny or whatever the fuck, I'll kill you myself." She smiles widely, but her eyes betray the honesty of her intent. "You're loyal or your dead. Never forget it."

“Im not sure if I should thank you or shit my pants”. He seems to shrink from you a bit

There’s a judder as gravity tethers connect to the platform, dragging into spike space, Home to Gudrun where the new ship is waiting

There is a crunch of metal on metal as the boarding tubes punch though the thin skinned transports. There are shouts of alarm carried through the metal from the other ship.

5:07 AM

The greyhounds have formed up near the three entrances, ready for action

"I want that bridge taken before their engineers even get near the engine room. Move!"

The armored tube doors open and the troopers move through. The inside of the enemy ship is dark, power cut with the last weapon impact. The emergency lights have not even come on yet. The hallway branches left and right

Cass send half her squad left, then takes the right herself with the others.

The left squad rounds the corner toward the bridge and begins doing sweeps. To the right is the engineering section and the blast doors here have been shut automatically with the loss of power. There is a node where a passkey can be entered

Cass slams her hand against the wall in excited frustration, orders her team to try getting through the door then comms her bridge. "What's the status on their engine room? How long do we have?"

“We hit them pretty good and they can’t light engines with us attached to them anyway. The hull breach where the boarding tubes shear off will tear the ship apart.”

1:40 PM

(Im picturing the tubes since they’re big enough for a person to walk through as these hollow big ass metal spears, so there’s going to be some big holes left behind if they pull away from you)

(Right)

“I can try to hack it. God knows what else I’ll fry” the squad technician says looking at the port.

2:25 PM

“I don’t know what kind of failsafe they’ll have in place”

She frowns. "How long to cut through?"

“Fifteen with power tools.”

4:42 PM

(which you have on the ship)

"Best not risk the electronics. Get this door down, they're not going anywhere." (edited)

The technician nods, and a few moments later appears with tools. He begins cutting. Ten minutes go by and the door cutout is nearly complete. "The moment this thing comes down, if there's anyone on the other side with a gun this whole space is going to fill with bullshit pretty quick. "

She grins. "Bullshit is why we're here, soldier. On my mark."

The tools wind down and he kicks the chopped up frame inward before diving out of the way. A hail of laser fire impacts the wall behind where he was standing a second ago.

Cass takes a deep breath. "OK, LISTEN UP! YOU'VE BEEN BOARDED AND LOCKED DOWN BY A FORCE SUPERIOR IN NUMBER AND, ER... FORCE. I'M OFFERING YOU A CHANCE TO SURRENDER BEFORE WE COME IN THERE AND KILL EVERY LAST ONE OF YOU!" She pauses for a moment. "Nobody else has to die today, but that's on you right now."

There’s some deliberation on the other side. “Alright. We talked it over. We’re coming out”

"If I see anything even resembling a weapon, every one of you will regret it. I don't particularly want to slaughter you all but I got no trouble doing it."

The handful of survivors exit the engine room, weapons disconnected from power and handed to your men grip first

"Good." She orders her squad to secure the prisoners, then moves to the bridge to see how things are going.

The disabling shot and the boarding tubes have locked the ship in place. Most of the controls are unresponsive.

10:07 AM

The ship is not fitted with any weapons and the captains lifeboat has already been fired.

"Lock it down and seal any breaches. I'll phone it in." Cass messages Sil and the others involved in the raid. "We've taken control here, got a number of the crew secured. They didn't put up much of a fight."

They begin scattering among the ship to carry out orders, reporting in when their sections are clear. The ship is yours

There is a shaky voice on comms. “Ma’am....you should...you should get down to the hold”. The trooper sounds on the verge of tears

"I'll check it out now..."

The hold is awash in blood and the stink of weapon propellant as you make your way down. There are a handful of wounded being tended by your squad members, working under the guidance of the team medic. “They started shooting when the engines were taken out. All we managed to get out of one of the least hurt.”

7:51 AM

Bodies are everywhere, packed in tight they were cut down with almost industrial precision

"You mean they killed their own?"

“They killed the slaves so we wouldn’t free them”

Cass send this one to @Masacio and the others. "Just who the hell were these guys anyway? They seem pretty vindictive."

“Well, they did shoot first when we met them on that lava planet too”

8:54 AM

The troopers near you all pause for a few seconds as they remember their comrade, killed by a sniper before you had a chance to parley

"We were armed and advancing on their position, these poor sods were caged. I fought Tenebrians before the fall and can't say I ever saw them butcher their slaves as part of a last stand." She wrinkles her nose at the stench of gore as she impassively looks over the scene. "Maybe I got lucky, or maybe these remnants have more screws loose than I thought."

One of the troopers dons an atmofilter and seems to relax a little. “What a mess. We will treat who we can. Bring them aboard for treatment. Maybe vent the bay once we get the survivors out?”

She flashes a halfhearted smile. "We wouldn't want our new ship smelling of death now, eh? Make it happen, then head back to the Greyhound. We're on standby awaiting new orders."

A situation report shows Malak and shriven boarding the stricken torpedo boat. The battle in space is effectively won.

Sil sends a message from the ground alerting you to some additional hotspots (he tagged so I’m sure it popped up)

(No rush mate)

(They’re dealing with Remnant artillery right now, no ones been to the slave camp yet. Lacrosse and the other southern city have been silent thus far as well)

The greyhound ship heads back toward Gudrun with the rest of the fleet in tow. The greyhound fleet has expanded already and the hold is full of cargo

The Greyhounds have been busy over the last few months, working behind the scenes to ensure situations on new UNW worlds are handled quietly, and professionally. Miriam , Aslief, Terezinho, and Gudrun are all calm for the most part. The New Moon cooperative to the northeast, extending a hand in possible friendship is a welcome development. The Remnant still exists to the west, though diminished in power and prestige. The Fleshshapers have moved as far as Elkano in the north, but have been prevented from going further south by continued Remnant raids and harassment. A splinter faction within the group would like to see UNW ships there as well.

The fire-haired captain of the Greyhound leans back in her chair in the ship's common area, heavy boots planted on the hyroplast table in front of her and arms held back behind her head. These are the times they fight for, she knows; the peaceful downtime, the return from a job well done, after the killing has made everything safer for those away from the frontlines. Yes, these are times to be truly thankful for... but by Christ were they boring. A loud yawn bounces off the walls. "Anyone have anything to report? Any sudden attack from erstwhile unseen forces? A fucking mouse in the hold that needs trapping? Sergeant, report."

"I ate the mouse already" he smiles. "All kinds of gristle, you wouldn't have liked it." "Well, I've got a list of assets uncovered by Central that belong to our foes. Some orbital defenses on Asta, some corporate assets on Rawhani. Or we could sniff around and try to find our own targets"

"Corporate assets, sergeant?" She furrows her brow and stares at the ship's ceiling, moving a well-shewed pencil about her mouth. "I know I give off the impression of a boardroom executive, it's my calm and collected nature that does that, but are you quite sure the brass signed that to us intentionally?"

"Its the Rawhani council of corporations. Hardly a friend"

10:41 AM

"We have the corporate security barracks of Saturnetworks, the Industrial Base in Fortune Sports, or the Lawyers of Nova Heavy Industries. That last group is a tricky one. They're a vocal pro remnant minority within the only corp on planet that had interest in true friendship"

Cass spits the pencil into the air then catches it in her mouth again. "Define vocal. And minority."

"Oh the lawyers? Well, they feel the Remnant is a better source of trade, especially since the Remnant doesnt truck with psychics. Kind of the reason they fell we're in this pickle. Nova Heavy at large has been pretty friendly with us though. Especially since you helped them with their sandworm issue"

"Now that was a good day's work. These lawyers need disappearing, or are we looking at a good old-fashioned public message here?"

He taps his stylus on the data pad a few times "We get to decide. It just needs to be effective"

11:06 AM

"If you'd tolerate an opinion, if we want them to continue being at least warm to the idea of allying with us in the long term, we should try to not make too violent a display"

"Sergeant, please. I'm no stranger to diplomacy." Cass spits the pencil into the air again and it bounces point first off he forehead, causing her to sit up suddenly. "Fucking BASTARD!." She clears her throat as she jumps to her feet. "I think everyone's had enough R&R out in the black. Time for some shore leave. Set a course for Nova Heavy; we'll solve another one of their little problems for them, tactfully and diplomatically, then we'll see what they might do for us."

"Alright, refueling, and then we'll be off" The greyhound turns for Gudrun, docking at the Trivedi Cloud orbital platform, the massive arx station built with plans recovered from Rawhani once. There are a number of shuttlecraft in orbit, and you see the UNW free merchant preparing to make spike out, as you enter the system. The new capital is nearly completed, and so begins the process of moving

Captain Cass strides down the docking bridge onto the station and grins, her team following suit with various degrees of excitement. One of them suggests a tactical operation at a small station bar, which is met with laughter and general consent, and indeed what better place to recuperate and wait for any Greenbriar personnel that may be joining them on their journey to Rawhani. An hour later, The Greyhounds have all but commandeered the building. "Sergeant, any word from Central?"

"Well, when we've made tactical evacuation with the alcohol, we're free to go. The posting went out on UNW nets."

Cornelius enters making his way to the bar to order a few rounds, then brings them over to the group putting them down on the table smiling as he takes his first drink. "Hello my name is Candrius Hardt, I heard there was a strategy meeting I had to catch up on?" (edited)

The rowdy group of large, battle-scared men and women look to their Captain as the newcomer approaches, who finishes a drink and stands to greet the man. She offers a firm handshake with a mischievous smile, dressed in the operationally casual way that only the military elite can. "Captain Cass Mcilroy, though see you call me Cass. Sergeant Longhill tells me you've got some issues with the Rawhani?"

"Not the workers just the corps, Saturnet in particular. I was brought over with some wounded after an attack on Stack City. My son and most of my old crew stayed behind. I was only able to find one who successfully immigrated, and was worried the others were being held captive."

"Aye, that sounds like a reason enough to go and have a look around. You know much about Nova Heavy?"

"Only what I heard from people in stack city or UNW documents. I could give you what I read in the last intelligence report. They are neutral, the navy is deployed near there, they have about 12 mechs, still rebuilding their city. We might have to check with Central before roughing them up since they haven't shot at us yet? Anything more specific you would have to talk to someone that's been there more recently maybe Billy? I think he mentioned something about it when I brought up I lived there once?" (edited)

12:35 PM

"Or Cyrus was the one who made the report, but I don't know if he'd have anything to add."

Cass' grin widens at mention of needing permission to open hostilities. "Don't worry yourself about, friend. We're aiming for a certain faction within the corp, not the corp itself. Anyway, the Greyhounds have something of a free pass when it comes to problem solving. All part of the job. How are you in a fight? Handle yourself?"

Cornelius grimaces a bit at the question. "Well, I probably won't die on you, and I know a little bit of everything, but I'm no expert. I am pretty good at not being surprised, knowing when a fight is aboout to go off, and talking it back down. I have also led men in a fight wnd through those desserts before. That said im not in the shape I used to be qnd overly physical fights feats take their toll."(sorry about the block I think it addresses most skills and foci though. Auto stabilize from die hard, 1st level alert, 0 on all combat, 2 lead 1 survival -1 exert) (edited)

Cornelius takes out hus stun baton twirling it before setting it to spark. "I also have my own equipment including stun weapons and a hovercycle. Was thinking of hunting bounties, but should work on corps lackeys too."

"Hah! That's what I like to see." She claps him on the shoulder. "Not that the Greyhounds are in the business of letting people die under their protection, but it's always nice to know the fella behind you can hold his own. Anyway, take a load off and I'll introduce you to the squad."

Cornelius smiles , and puts his baton back in the holster then takes a seat across from Cass among the soldiers. (edited)

Of the few dozen men and women present, the standout member of the Greyhounds include Sergeant "Wire" Longhill, a tall, thin man with nanoframe eyeglasses who is 'our eyes and ears, and a memory like a fucking databank;' Sergeant "Needle" Lozetta, a shorter, deadpan woman with long grey hair, 'the crackest shot this side of Old Earth, and a sense of humour as sharp as her eyesight;' and her second-in-command Lieutenant "Sol" Sokolov, a dark-skinned, heavy set man who seems to embody the word 'stoic.' "See, Wire is because he's a lanky bastard, but he also works the comms, right? And Needle, because she can thread a fucking needle from across the other side of the planet with that rifle, but also because her tongue's so sharp. That one I came up with, pretty good right? And Sol is... well, Sol is just Sol. Nothing fancy, no need. These lot are like brothers and sisters to me, but Sol's more like a father, you know? Solid as a fucking rock." She takes a deep breath, then seems to realise where she is. "Ah fuck it, I'm rambling again. Should probably make the next one the last. How about you, Cornelius Hardt? You earned a name for yourself?" (edited)

"I have given a few, probably none as good as yours. Your squad seems skilled, and close knit."Cornelius looks around taking in the soldiers then addressing them all. "It is my pleasure to meet you all, and to join you on this mission." Turning back to Cass Cornelius continues. "Please don't worry about rambling on my account, I'm eager to learn what i can, and in case you hasnt noticed prone to a bit of rambling myself."Cornelius laughs at his own joke a little before ge srarts talking again. "I don't think I've earned a name yet, though some people have called me Corn. Please feel free to think of something, I look forward to it."

The time before the mission passes happily, and soon Cornelius is escorted onto the Greyhound's specialist vessel, creatively named the Greyhound. She's a sleek, well-armed and armoured corvette refitted for the squad's specialist purposes at the time of their official formation, comfortably housing the 38 members of the team with a few bunks to spare; one of which will now be Cornelius' place of rest for the next few days. "We'll put you in with the lads near the starboard turrets, quiet as a mouse in there."

"Thank you, that should be fine. Does the greyhound have room for my hover cycle, I have been using it as storage for my extra equipment?" (edited)

"Aye, there's a bit of space in storage if you don't mind it being tucked away."

"That's fine, as long as I can get at my gear before we land."

"Of course. Can even offer you a locker in the armoury if you'd prefer."

"I think I will take you up on that." Cornelius moves the gear he expects to use, and anything needed for the trip to the locker, and his bunk. Leaving the heavier ordinance in the bike as it's packed away in the hold. (edited)

There is a loud buzz outside the hangar as launch clearance is given. Engineers and deck personnel are grabbing tools and getting to their special shelter housings so the compression won't blow them into space

"I think we're set."

The integrity field keeping space out vanishes for long enough- and the greyhound clears the dock, to open space

9:26 AM

(Spike 3, gives you a straight shot to Rawhani)

9:27 AM

A day passes in travel, before emerging. An expanding debris cloud from an orbital battle here is busy being cleaned by recycling shuttles, all making trips to and from a strange looking factory ship. All are marked with Rigers Board of Engineers. You see they'

9:27 AM

are keeping clear of ground to space defenses

Cornelius strokes his beard watching the ships flying back and forth for a while. "So that's what he's up to out here, looks more like scavenging than an experiment, unless he's trying to put that Titan back together from the pieces or something. I wonder if it will work, either way must have the corps down there wetting themselves."

"And if they aren't they soon will be. The ones on the wrong side of us anyway. Our remit is to touch down, find these remnant allies and knock six shades of shite out of them." She winks at Cornelius. "Diplomatically like, of course. Nova would be a big asset, can't let these manipulative little bastards get in the way of that."

Cornelius' smile turns into a self satisfied grin. "Of course, we wouldn't want to risk their assets, then what would be left once we got rid of them? If they're not against us now, they might be when they learn what entails fair business practice, and treatment of citizens under the UNW. " Cornelius laughs then. "I think I can try to reserve judgement if they seem cooperative though. I have a little bit of diplomatic experience under my belt, I just got back from a diplomatic mission to the New Moon Cooperative."

(Aggressive Negotiations)

Nova heavy industries broadcasts a path as you get close that will take you around the hostile orbital defenses and into their compound

"Vessel, this is nova heavy ground control, we have a path through the breaker guns marked for you"

Cass nods to her pilot to bring them in, and the bridge staff respond to the hails.

The path between guns is narrow in some areas, but after a tense hour descent approach, you land inside the test track and factory cluster that is Nova Heavy. A patrol echelon of light mechs passes by outside the walls

"Just like before the fall, eh?"

"I don't know, I think the pre fall stuff was better. Either way don't let them try to bamboozle you, we've got diplomatic butts to kick."

Several men and woman in business suits, flanked by Nova security troopers wait a respectful distance from the ramp. Weapons are shouldered, or worn loose on chest straps, not ready for immediate use

The Greyhounds welcoming contingent escort Cass and Cornelius, not allowing the Nova posturing to outclass their own. Cass stares down the man sent to greet them for a few seconds, then smiles and offers her hand. "We meet again. Good to see you're still around."

"Same for you. We'd asked a few times of previous delegations. I'm going to make this short, they're almost here. Lawyers from the central committee are coming. They got wind of our activity here and our...maybe not enthusiastic, but, tacit, at least support for you. They're coming to deliver legal paperwork that is going to hamper our ability to trade, and to accept our own guests. Breach is a cause for war, if what we've been threatened is translated into the paperwork"

"What numbers are you expecting by way of security?"

"Corporate security team, at least 20, I'd double it for good measure"

(who?)

(The guys from central, the splinter group)

(they're the same. The central corporation comittee is sending its lawyers to nova heavy to deliver basically an ultimatum, theyre being accompanied by faction security, essentially you;re disrupting two faction assets attacking a friendly one. They wanted you to disrupt this meeting somehow without implicating nova heavy, be it a wasteland ambush, kidnapping, cutting a deal, you've got latitude to get it done)

(Right, I just thought they had splintered physically already)

10:21 AM

(I misread the situation)

10:22 AM

"I doubt they'd be happy to see us there, but that can be used to out advantage. How do you want to play this?" She aims this question at Cornelius as much as anyone else (edited)

"Well, do you know how they found out? If there is someone leaking information to them that could change the plan some."

"We had a visitor from your planet collection last month. Jamillica Thorn, Do you know her? Well, apparently she was at Saturnetworks, and some other companies before coming here, different story each time, but they got suspicious. Got some prints from a glass in a bar I guess. Some security officers there, along with two techs all recognized her face, but gave us different names. Well, the central council keeps a database on skilled labor and they knew she was one of our employees once.

10:37 AM

"Her coming here after doing whatever else she did to upset them put a crosshair on our back"

10:37 AM

(as was explained about a dozen times during that mission, but here we are)

"Skilled laborer database eh. How would you prefer the situation handled?"

"We're on thin ice with the central committee already, and we're nowhere near strong enough to act on our own, not against five other cities. However it's done, we need to have some plausible deniability"

"Wouldn't you be implicated if they were attacked or just dissapeared? Is there an outside force that could take the blame? Besides us, as that would seem to implicate you as well."

"I'd rather not get into how we will handle that. The less you know the safer it is for you"

"Sure, plausible deniability, I understand. Can you tell us where they are coming from?"

"southeast. It's hard to see from down here but from the air there's a loose road in from the coast . It's a long drive, but air travel is difficult now:

"Perhaps we should make the plan of approach in private so you can have deniability when asked about it as well?"

"I think that would be best. You're welcome to rest your ship inside the testing area here for as long as you need" Looking around, Cass notices several of the buildings have been rebuilt since their battle with queen shirker and her brood of worms. Their bones and other pieces have been incorporated into several structures

"I love what you've done with the place. Do you mind if we scope out the southeast entrance a little more?"

"By all means. We will let you plan in peace"

Cass signals her team to move out towards the direction of the lawyer's expected arrival, and they fan out to survey. She then winks happily at Cornelius. "Don't know about you, but I'd be happier on the frontlines so to speak. How do you feel about going undercover and getting up close and personal?"

"I could do that, I even brought a suit."

"That strangely doesn't surprise me. How about you sit down on this meeting as an 'external advisor' for Nova, I'll be nearby as your 'escort.' We can at least hear what these guys have to say before we decide whether to vaporise them or not."

"Sounds good to me. If you brought an extra weapon you could toss me if needed, I would appreciate it."

She grins her mischievous grin once more. "I don't think that will be a problem. The Greyhound's armouries are yours to plunder."

"Do joint corp security use lasers on ops like this in your experience?"

(I checked my character sheet and remembered that Cass lugs a customised heavy laser cannon around)

7:56 AM

"More accurate, less chance of throughfire. The corpsec weapon of choice, aye."

Cornelius looks down at Cass' laser cannon. "I was thinking of trying to kick up sand if things go wrong but that might hurt us too, do the greyhounds usually use lasers like you?"(particulate like sand mucks up laser accuracy a little right?)

(It does, but in sterile boardrooms that shouldn't be an issue)

(it can, thats why most of the colonial army uses solid shot rifles, but Cass is right here)

"We use whatever gets the job done. I like to let a little personal preference come to the fore where weapons are involved." She notices his glance at the cannon. "Oh, don't worry yourself. I forget I'm carrying it sometimes. I'll be so lowkey you'll barely know I'm there!" (edited)

"So are we going to meet them here?"

8:15 AM

(I misunderstood where the meeting would take place at first, so am trying to fix it in character?)

(I think it's happening here as in this building, but not literally here. We're just outside a starport landing bay if I'm following it right, we'll be moving to a boardroom or something?)

(Ah ok I thought we were at the desert entrance like they would have to come in through here.)

(youre outside their starship area, you have full latitude to handle this however you want, so if you want to have a meeting first and see what theyre actually doing, we can attack it that way)

(so would it be realistic to fill my pockets, or some sample containers or something with sand?)

(I would only ever apply a penalty if it was a sandstorm or something, just normal blowing sand or small volumes isnt going to scatter the beam enough)

8:29 AM

(ten points for trying to pocket sand someone though)

(thanks. Maybe I'll try get pocket sandstorm researched. One last thing to try, could I use my survey scanner to try and see if a sandstorm would be happening around here any time soon?)

(it would have been seen brewing from orbit, the weather is clear)

1

8:35 AM

(thats why they're traveling in the first place)

Cornelius squats down running the sand through his hand before standing up again. "It's good to be home, this will probably happen in some stuffy board room rather than in the open sand though right? Forty corp sec wouldn't all shove their way in there though would they? Seems a little excessive once they are already inside, even for the corps." (edited)

"Aggressive negotiations, maybe?"

"Maybe we should check the room before hand then."

"Aye, just give me a moment to put on something less conspicuously military and I'll be with you."

"I'll head back with you, I have to change into my suit after all." (Sorry for never really giving a character description when we met. I'll try to do one when he re emerges in the suit.) (edited)

(swipe to doing that then? or did we have more to do here)

2

Cass and Cornelius grab what they think appropriate clothing and equipment for the occasion should be. "They;re about five minutes out" one of the scouts reports

1:17 PM

"30 guards, looks like a staff car with 5 lawyers in it. There

1:17 PM

is a helicopter shadowing the convoy too"

"Looks like we made our costume change just in time, maybe we can still get a peek at the meeting room ." Cornelius is now wearing a finely tailored suit instead of the Icarus Harness built onto a yellow combat field uniform he was before. He looks about 50 , a little tanned from the sun, but in decent shape. His hair and beard are neatly trimmed and a combination of white and grey. His posture takes full advantage of his 6'2" height. His usual smile has turned to a disaffected scowl as he tries to take on the roll of a consultant. (edited)

Cass’ mid-length hair has been pulled back in a tight ponytail, and she wears black; black suit, soft black boots, black fingerless gloves, and opaque black tecshades that hide her gaze. She is the very essence of corpsec, until she opens her mouth. “How about this then, eh? No-one will suspect a fucking thing!”

"Looks good, let's go diplomat circles around these guys." This time it's Cornelius that winks and smiles before reassuming his corp face as he heads to the meet.

"Damn straight." Cass and two other Greyhounds fall into a bodyguard formation around Cornelius as she sends messages to the rest of the team; Wire has been granted guest access to the Nova mainframe and shall maintain a watch over the meet from outside. If anything happens inside, those of the team less inclined to subtlty are ready to move in. Happy that all bases are covered, all there is to do now is wait for their guests to arrive.

The helicopter keeps a respectful distance from the vehicles, at the edge of your vision. The vehicles enter the main gate of Nova Heavy, walked in by two light mechs.

7:00 PM

The corporate security troopers get out, and finally one nods, satisfied the area is clear, before opening the door of the staff car. Five lawyers emerge, each in fine business suits of their own

Cass stands by in the universal pose of one discreetly telling you they are watching you intently.

The guards form up around their charges, and the lawyers begin making their way over to you "Good morning. You represent Nova Heavy?"

(Has Nova Heavy sent anyone besides us?)

( I assumed they had)

(yeah but i didnt want to talk to myself if one of you wanted to take the leaD)

7:45 AM

(it felt 'stepping on toesy)

2

1

"Yes, I was informed you were trying to deliver papers that might further limit their already rare off world trade, and offered my services."

"I see. We can get into the formalities inside. Are we ready to begin?"

"If there isn't anything else I believe so."

They fall into step, being led to the conference room by the Nova Heavy employee, and you

(What is the layout of the meeting room, also who comes in besides the lawyers, the nova heavy employee, myself, Cass and the greyhounds with her dressed like corpsec detail?)

The meeting room is a standard corporate meeting room, a long central table, with a chair for the three of you, five on the other side for the lawyers. Their corporate security is posted outside, and three accompany them within.

Cornelius takes the middle seat of the three, then waits for the others to arrange themselves and begin.

The others enter the room, and begin sitting down. An aide comes and delivers some papers to each of them, and they nod

Cornelius waits, looking to others and their aid. Expecting to be briefed or given similar papers. (I wasn't sure if I should post, then went to my friend's birthday. Sorry I didn't say something earlier.) (edited)

Your expectations are met with disappointment. The papers seem to be for their eyes only. One of the central committee lawyers speaks. “The purpose of this visit is to deliver notice that nova heavy is no longer to trade with or host any kind of delegation not approved by the central committee. Especially the UNW

"What of the other corporations? Have they made similar agreements?"

“Nova heavy is the only one in defiance of it”

"Were these stipulations regarding outside parties always the case or only once you were pushed by circumstance into an alliance with the Remnant?"

“The Remnant have been reliable partners. We have information, a lot of information, that the UNW is behind much of the black ops attacks we have been facing. “

6:27 AM

“That’s not a trade relationship we wish to continue”

"How difficult would it be to arrange a meeting with this governing central body? The party I represent has information and a proposal I believe could be more fruitful than the misinformation the Remnant might be feeding you, and the ability to trade with someone capable of reaching multiple polity markets and giving a degree of separation and thus protection might appeal to your interests. When was the last time your goods were bought for outside trade by the Remnant?"

"Where did you say you were from? You're speaking as though you're not from here"

"I said as much when we met. I am not trying to obscure that fact. I represent an outside trade interest who wanted to maintain mutually profitable trade with the corperations, since you represent them all and were specifically bringing up outside trade here, I thought a meeting between us only made sense."

'The central body is not meeting outsiders directly. It is too dangerous"

"That is unfortunate, how long would it take you to send them a proposal and relevant information, or have you been empowered to make such a decision on their behalf as proxies?"

"We're empowered"

"I believe that gives us some area to work within then. What current polities do you know of or have trade relations with besides the UNW and Empire Remnant?"

"Youre asking quite a bit, and not giving much in return. Who is this common trade interest you represent?"

"As a dealer in information I am unsure if it is unwise to reveal their identity to you at this time, hopefully if this negotiation goes well it will not be an issue. I can tell you some things about your supposed allies, and suspected enemies, or possible trade markets, I am not sure which interests you more. Please ask, and I will give you answers as I am able, or perhaps a small scale credit transaction would put you more at ease? I have only been authorized for so much as a proxy myself, I trust that you understand."

the first lawyer sits back in her chair, a knowing smile on her face "We cannot authorize a deal when we do not know who we are negotiating with. Surely you understand. We are plagued by shadow operations among one another, and from the outside. Supposed allies you say? If this turns into an anti-Remnant rant, we'll caution you to stop there and save your breath. We don't support what they do, but they are a good customer"

"I understand that, but perhaps you can appreciate how that would leave me even more exposed. If you truly feel we can't move forward without that I will reveal it. As far as the remnant I was more going to update you on their war effort, it looks a little bleak for them at the moment and I would not want to leave a possible trade partner on the end of a losing war, making decisions without the off world knowledge required. I was unsure what they had told you, as I have known them to give faulty information, use blackmail and even kidnap non combatants for leverage in making deals when it has suited their interests before, another reason I was wary to reveal too much about myself or my employer. Since you have proved reasonable so far though I am hoping the main leverage they have against you is your being stuck on planet."

"Its leverage of a sort, we cannot export our own products. As we said, however, their crimes are meaningless to us, as long as they pay cash" (edited)

"At least on this we agree, that is one reason I was wondering when the last time you traded with them was. My sources said that they had been hard hit losing several of their larger ships, and even a shipyard recently while the UNW's fleet and planet reach only grows. Such a depletion and dedication to a losing war it seems like they will have little left to dedicate to moving or buying your products, and would be unable to keep it safe if they were buying it to trade."

"What can you give me in return for that information?"

"What would you like? I could give you further information possibly on our trade partners as they are one of yours, unless you would be more partial to credits, or perhaps I could persuade you to share it as a move toward a beneficial trade relationship going forwards?"

"You're again, asking much, for nothing in return. We have no guarantees from you. What do you think the information is worth?"

"Would you feel better if I revealed something more? Hopefully you see that I am in a similar position, and once we get past this problem of who divulges their information first it will facilitate more profitable discussions."

"You know we've organized under a central committee, that our trade relationship with the Remnant is fresh enough to still be considered active, and that we have knowledge of the inner workings of Nova Heavy. I feel we've acted in good faith thus far."

"Very well, I admit I might have you at a disadvantage, but intelligence is my business, and I might need to tell you some things you don't already know in explaining myself and my employer. Does the name Greystar mean anything to you?"

"We owe them a great deal of pain once we find them"

"Then they have interacted with you as well. It seems I might have underestimated their reach as well as the possible merits of a partnership between us. Might I ask what they have done to earn such ire from you? You seem reasonable enough to me."

"Industrial espionage. Theft of plans, destruction of resources. Attacks on company personnel"

"That is serious, I will have to be even more guarded around them in the future. I'm surprised you found out about their involvement from what I was led to believe their actions were usually of the most covert nature, and avoiding unnecessary harm."

"The two operatives we crucified a year ago had plenty to say"

"I'd be careful to trust the words of dying men, but I'll take your warning none the less. Talking about what I assume was a public execution at least eventually makes me think of an idea I'd had. Perhaps it would be more appropriate later, but I thought it best to mention it while still fresh. I saw some of the Arenas that you have on the way down. They are impressive, are they still used for sport or just execution? I might have a way they could be used for both, and possibly turn a profit if you are interested. What do you know of gladiatorial arenas?" (edited)

"They are public meeting places, and the bodies arent interred there.

11:54 AM

"We use them for sport, when the population is complaint enough to merit it"

"Well part of what I am planning once I get the logistics in place is a traveling Gladiatorial troop. Some very wealthy clients have shown interest and it allows me to get into places that might not welcome me otherwise. Why not take the opportunity to do a little trading or talking if a profit can be made is my opinion. I hope that now that I have been more honest with you on my position and aims we can move forward in making a deal and sharing information. If I have been unclear or unsatisfactory in my explanation, please ask any questions which you feel necessary." (edited)

This seems to give them enough for now. "A secret for a secret, very good. Now its your turn"

12:01 PM

(you can ask something now)

"Thank you for indulging me. I will stick with my original question as I believe that it is always good to know as much as possible about the Major Powers as they usually are the most influential as far as security, and flow of credits. I would like to know more about your relations with the Remnant, and if acting as a proxy to these and other powers who might represent a danger to yourself if interacted with directly, possibly on a larger scale on a long term basis would appeal to you, and if you are interested in my other proposal, as it seems you have arenas built and a healthy supply of possible combatants and wild life trained to various degrees."

(Okay so youre asking how do they feel about their trade arrangement?)

(yes sorry if that was unclear. How they feel about the level of current trade, and if trading with the big powers through me instead of directly as they could reach more markets, and not have to host them on planet risking sabotage or attack would be agreeable to them. Also feeling them out about the arena a little.) (edited)

"The trade agreement with the Remnant is fair. Going through an intermediary would cost us more in fees, no doubt you're seeking to make your own cut"

1:56 PM

(basically adding friction to the deal for no reason)

"Ah, if they have not directly acted against you that makes sense, and yes for transportation I would usually like to make a cut. Have they been able to trade with you recently though? I was worried with hostilities the supply lines might have been interrupted, and wanted to offer my help there."

"Not this month yet, but they were here last month, near the beginning. There isn't in the central committee's mind cause for concern yet"

"I shall move on then. Do you know anything about the NMC? They are a recent discovery of mine, but I believe open to trade, and possibly interested in what you have to offer."

"We have not contacted them, nor had contact from them. Could you show us on a star map where they are?"

"I could give you an idea, but piloting is not my greatest skill and the ink is still drying on our trade relationship. They control most of the North East sector, and seemed to be in a bit of a war themselves. I would be reluctant to give you any more of the the specifics about contacts as you could just trade with them yourself, and cut out the intermediary in that case."

“It sounds like they’re passing through UNW territory anyway . Not something we can really follow”

"Well, I have to earn the percentage of profit somehow, going to places you can't seems a good way. On that note, should I try to sell to the UNW, and Combine or avoid them at least as far as your products? I know you have had bad dealings with them before, but that's what you would be paying me for, and their credits still spend. I will leave that up to you as I have other markets if you would rather avoid them. They are very close though, and active in this sector." (edited)

"We would rather avoid them. Those launching black-operation attacks on us aren't welcome here"

“I will not sell your products to them if that is your wish. It simply seems like a lost market if I travel through their ports anyway.”

“Anything we sell you ends up back here, in the hands of their shadow ops”

7:14 AM

“We aren’t so blind to greed that it’s a sale we will make anyway”

"Ah, I understand. I will move on from your current products then. Would you be agreeable with me selling entertainment things from here to there like music, or books, recordings of sporting events and things of that nature? Things like that were of specific interest to the NMC, but the UNW also seemed a bit starved for culture and couldn't use that to attack you."

“What specifically?”

"I wasn't sure what you had specifically it was just an idea, but you must have some prints of paintings or out of fashion clothes, or music. Almost anything from old Earth would probably move pretty quickly also. Items that wouldn't be of too much value to you having them in abundance, but might fetch a decent price in those niche markets. If nothing comes to mind we can continue with something else, and possibly revisit the topic at a later time."

Two of the other corporate guards in the room have their fingers to earpieces suddenly

4:00 PM

"We need to hurry this up" one says to the lawyers "Right" one continues "The purpose of this visit is to deliver these papers formally forbidding nova heavy from trading, outside of central corporation permission, which they are now, even if its with you"

"Correct, which is why I was trying to secure trade permission. So that I wouldn't be forcefully ejected and similar trade could continue and possibly be extended to the other corporations without violating any agreements. I apologize if that point became obscured."

"You've said much without saying anything at all, such as what flag your ship flies, home port, markets, what goods you could bring in return. We need this information, and quickly, if youd like this to continue"

5:00 PM

"Someone else posing as a trader was just abducted outside Fortune Sports. To be honest, this feels like a shadow op we have stumbled into" The two corporate guards begin to go for their weapons

"I am risking much of my personal fortune in this, and I am scared that these greater powers, you included will crush me in the crossfire. Maybe trying to hide under the guise of a power larger than myself was a mistake, for misleading you in that way I apologize. I admit I am more a nomad not really calling any port my home, though I have some ties to several as seemed prudent for my own ease of movement and protection. I thought trying to be a neutral party interested only in trade and profit would be a sort of protection, but everyone seems to be polarized in their alliances and politics."

"Without knowing where these goods are going we cannot agree to anything at this time" One of them hands the Nova Heavy representative the papers. "Sign, please" One of the guards raises his weapon, pointing it at the representative, for 'encouragement'

Cornelius bows his head in deference and defeat. "I am sorry if trying to needlessly insert myself into these proceedings only served to waste your time and worsen relations. Is there anything I could do to salvage this meeting now or in the future? Perhaps I could offer you something from my personal belongings on the ship? Maybe bring something from later trades I hate to leave things on this sour note."

"This is an internal corporate matter."

6:51 PM

"now sign"

6:51 PM

The representative looks to be hesitating

Cornelius nods, then looks questioningly to Cass then the corp sec goon holding the gun on the Nova rep preparing to follow her lead sitting on the edge of his chair. (As far as the people in the room it was 5 lawyers and 3 corp sec one of whom has their gun on the Nova rep. On our side the Nova rep, Cornelius, Cass, and 2 Greyhounds, I wasn't sure which 2 it was, is that correct?) (edited)

(right, just wanna give cass some time to catch up and decide to act, or not)

(That was my plan as well I just wanted to check, and wasn't sure if a thumbs up here would get that across.)

(I am returned. I wonder how smart murdering these guys is, but I understand that they are something of a splinter group in the first place. Perhaps we could give momentum to ending them)

(Nova Heavy is splintering, murdering the central committee lawyers would certainly stop the process here, which is what you wanted)

(Plus their escort is the bulk of their security force I think. I thought the plan was to capture the lawyer vips? Well whichever. I guess that's what laz patches are for.)

During this time, Cass has given the signal to the waiting Greyhound team to go into action, a dozen of them assaulting the lawyer's transports and subduing their guards whilst the rest of them move to breach the meeting room. Cass herself speaks up as the Nova pen is about to touch paper, the two men besides her subtly shifting their weight and readying to attack. "If I might interrupt here. There's one thing we haven't discussed."

(I'm just going to do some opposed rolls out there for how well it goes)

8:05 AM

"What would that be?"

Moments before the door to the room is broken down by the assaulting Greyhounds, word had likely reached the earpieces of their security that their vehicles are under attack. Cass smiles as she sees them react, then goes for her weapon at the same time as he comrades. "Giving us a reason to spare your lives, first of all."

"If we return without this done our lives are forfeit anyway"

8:27 AM

"If you cant take us with you, it would be kinder to us and our families to kill us" Their resolve is broken (they bombed their morale check)

(Are the corp sec on their side surrendering/standing down as well?)

"Nobody's dying just yet." She glares at the corpsec staff to drop their weapons.

one of them turns his weapon arm over to show he's been mag locked to the trigger guard of his weapon, he actually Can't drop it

"I knew the corps were nasty, but I didn't realize it went up to your level as well. Will anything bad happen if you drop out the mag or battery without firing?"

"I don't know. I've never tried. Can we go outside?"

"Soon. Have your higher-ups got any way of monitoring you? Implanted GPS or similar?"

"The vehicles, and that helicopter. They've by now realized something is wrong, or will soon"

"If you've failed they have too right? Do you think they would be as eager to get out from under the corps as you?"

"It's a drone. I don't think it cares"

"Oh, what about the mechs? Or other corp sec then?"

(the mechs belong to Nova heavy)

(Sorry I thought they had an escort of 2 mechs also, those must have been the nova ones. Should I edit that then?) (edited)

"The mechs are Nova's forces. They were just escorting us in"

"Ah, well what about the other corp sec then? Surely between all of us we can take out one drone before it gets away? " Cornelius looks to Cass after asking this question.

She nods. "Piece of piss if we can locate it. Shouldn't be too hard to with the QECM, unless there's a jockey operating it close by."

"Don't have that. Have to do it the old fashioned way"

She nods again and messages Wire to be on the lookout for a drone within range outside of Nova's control.

"Boss we're going to have to chase this thing in the ship, its bugging out hard"

"What does Nova say about that? Are we cleared to pursue this thing?"

"Go, end this"

"Right you are, then."

"Will Nova be ok securing these guys? I want to believe that everyone is this dissatisfied with the status quo, but I don't want anything stupid to happen while the drone gets chased down."

'We;ve got them until you get back and other arrangements can be made"

Cornelius turns to Cass before standing. "Well, looks like we're ready to wrangle a drone. I'll try not to slow you down." (edited)

The Nova Heavy guards and the Greyhounds not needed move in to take the corp lawyers into custody.

3:08 PM

Outside, the greyhounds have prevailed, for a loss of 3 of their own, against a much larger corporate force. One of the transport vehicles is still burning.

(Would a lazarus patch help any of them?)

(no, they're NPC's, at 0 they're down)

Cornelius looks at the casualties on both sides and the battle site then sighs. "I'm sorry the negotiations didn't go better. Thank you for pulling me out of the fire in there. I appreciate the sacrifice you all made today."

Cass nods as they move towards the ship and a brisk pace, though she's less talkative than she has been up to this point. Whether the focus on the task at hand or concern for her lost squad members, Cornelius hasn't known her quite long enough to tell, but the captain's usual air of rambunctiousness has given way to a more oppresive intensity. "Everyone knows the risks when you sign on here." A few moments pass in silence again. "They'll be sent off properly when we return, you can be sure of that."

The greyhound began powering up moments ago when the attack began, and its engines are at full burn, ready for you both to follow the drone

(Tempted to shout FOLLOW THAT DRONE, but that would be unprofessional)

Both of you boarded, the ship takes off, in hot pursuit.

6:25 AM

“Do we catch it or shoot it down?” The pilot asks

"Catch it if we can."

"Are we going to try to get it in the cargo hold? Should I try to help down there? I think Wire would be better than me on any kind of ecm attack."

( I don't know if the greyhound has a tractor beam or something. And didn't get a chance to check the admin sheet before heading out.)

(It doesn't, which was why I wasn't sure if we could secure it. Maybe we could knock it out the air and recover it without destroying it?)

(Maybe we could ecm it down its a drone right? So if you interrupt the signal it will maybe stop and hover or start falling? Either way I hoped I could help since once I change into my armor I won't be at risk of falling to my death even if I mess up really bad and fall out the cargo bay. We are kind of assuming it isn't set to blow or have weapons though.)

(you dont know either of those things corn)

(Not for certain, but it seemed potentially helpful to suggest? The only electrical weapons I know about are the stun ones, and I don't think the flop rifle effects robots after Kensh's attempts on Terezinho right?)

(correct)

(It might be too early in the chase to tell, but are we catching up to the drone?)

(I was waiting for you guys to figure out your actual plan of action before I move the story ahead so i know what im writing)

8:47 AM

(youre in a starship though, so you are faster)

(So we are still making our way to the bridge?)

(read my above post. I dont know. we've been talking in OOC, no actual plan presented yet. I dont know what im writing)

(Cass wanted to catch the drone without destroying if possible, and I suggested catching it in the cargo bay or interfering with it electronically, that was in character. I was trying to get a feel for where we would be, and let Cass tell me the plan from there. We are still in corp clothes. Is that an accurate description of events?) (edited)

(yes)

2

"If we can outrun it, we should be able to hit it somewhere where it won't be totally destroyed. Whether we can haul it in before it hits the ground is another matter."

"What kind of weapons does the greyhound have?"

"More than enough to punch a hole straight though an average warship. I might be a little overgunned for this kind of delicate work."

"Maybe taking some pot shots from an open cargo hold would work better? If you don't have any ship lasers, it seems like the easiest way of disabling it before trying to grab it anyway, at least that I can think of."

The vessel begins catching up. "Two minutes! It's got a nice head start on us!" the crew chief calls into the bay

Cass is glad Needle is on board. She gives her the nod, and the sniper begins moving towards the rear access of the ship. Several others secure in place whilst allowing her freedom to adjust her aim just as the large hatch whirs open.

Cornelius scrambles to secure himself when the hatch is opened.

The hatch opens as you're pulled alongside the drone. It's heavy bodied frame is chopping the air with as much force as the distant operator can get out of the engine

"Make it count!"

(is just he shooting or is everyone)

(Cornelius didn't have a gun so he is not shooting.)

"Got a bead!"Needle says, firing. The drone is struck, but not downed. Black smoke pours out of the engine facing this side of your ship

"Alright, that should slow it down enough! Bring it in, lads!"

Two long metal hooks are thrown from the hold, tangling the helicopter. The motor blows out at the strain and it hangs limp below the greyhound d

Cornelius looks over to see if the greyhounds who threw the hooks need help hauling up the drone.

They’re struggling with the Weight. One of them releases the rope, his hands burning

6:05 PM

The others are thrown violently at the sudden shift

Cornelius jumps to help the ones still holding the rope. "Come on, get more hooks on, and someone secure that rope."

Cass takes the other one and joins him in the struggle.

The group of you gives a mighty heave and the drone scrapes across the metal decking of the greyhound

6:25 PM

It’s engine is fouled, and computer systems are damaged

Cornelius wipes his brow and sighs when the drone is inside the ship. "Sorry about that Cass, I didn't mean to bark orders like that. I know the Greyhounds is your outfit. I'm just glad no one fell out the back of the ship."

"Orders? I just heard common sense." She slaps him on the back as the cargo bay doors close, then helps up the prone woman who took the shot. Cass nods to Cornelius as the woman shoulders the long rifle with no discernable expression. "What did I tell you, eh? Like threading a needle. Now give us a hand getting this thing secured."

Cornelius smiles. "I think I can help with that, though you might have to do most of the heavy lifting."

thin smoke leaks from the broken front section, but its clear its not transmitting anything anymore

Cornelius runs to get a tool kit, and med kit from his bike. Then approaches the drone to get a better look.

( i think it might be easier to just answer you based on what youre looking for specifically)

(first an obvious bomb or live wires, the fans moving suddenly or something else that could make moving or storing the drone dangerous.) (edited)

(Surely an evil corporation that places no value on human life would do something like put a bomb in their highly sensitive information drone)

There is a very detailed observation suite inside, nothing strikes you as bomb-like

Feeling a little better knowing the drone probably won't explode Cornelius begins to take scans of it to see how he might access information stored in the observation suite, or if it was just being transmitted back to the operator.

it was just being transmitted back to the operator

Cornelius tries to interface with the drone on his datapad to see if he can get any idea of where the drone was transmitting to. "Cass we might need Wire to find out more, but I'm going to try to see what I can get from the drone as far as location of the operator now that I've determined it's safe. Also we should probably help that greyhound that burned their hands on the rope if they haven't made their way to medbay already."

(program/int for tracing the operator)

(10)

The operator is located hundreds of kilometers away, deep inside Fortune Sports

9:29 AM

There seems to be a lot of military activity there right now

"Well we know the operator is in Fortune sports. Apparently they're engaged in military action. Maybe that will keep them distracted, or would be worth looking into? We also have those prisoners at nova to consider though. What do you think Cass? I'll follow your lead, you've been right so far."

"You don't need to worry about the prisoners, they'll be safe and secure until we decide otherwise." She scratches her chin. "What say we investigate who exactly they're fighting over there? Might be we kill two birds with one heavy bombardment."

"Maybe we could even grab some things they have sitting around while they are otherwise occupied? Looting the corporations or at least hostile ones if we get the chance seems like a good idea to me."

"Is that what we're doing then?" the pilot asks "I need a heading"

"Top her out, solider. We're going live."

Cornelius gets some of the Greyhounds in the cargo bay to help him to stow and secure the drone in the cargo hold. (Did that greyhound who hurt their hands ever get to the medbay? If not Cornelius then tries to treat their injuries.)

(they're in medbay)

1

10:48 AM

The craft banks left sharply, as it changes course for fortune sports

10:48 AM

"There's no way they're not going to detect us"

Cornelius tries to interface with the drone again to check if it has any useful information on coms channels, safe approach, or possibly it's intended flight path for return to Fortune Sports.

(that's going to be another program check, as you attempt to access a more secure part of its database)

(12)

There is nothing aboard about a path that avoids the anti-air guns. From what can be read on the defense reports taken months ago, that would be deliberate. Anything not transponding a friendly code would be fired upon"

Cornelius tries to see what codes the drone was broadcasting. "I'm going to try to pull some codes off of the drone, but maybe you could try to get something more usable useable from Nova?"

"Maybe the prisoners would give us something to show they're on our side, or to help us get their families?"

Cass nods and patches a beam back to Nova HQ, asking if the compliant lawyers feel like talking.

The lawyers are being taken into custody, none have detailed security information, it is not their function

This is Provost Desmond O'Shea we are having a Marshal Appreciation Celebration and Psionic Academy Fundraiser, with all the the donations going to the Regulus Fund- a charity that helps struggling psychics like those who fled the Remnant, Fleshshapers or those dealing with the Still Lady. We will have it at the Harvest Spirits. This is your invitation!

"Darn, their compartmentalization and paranoia are working against us. Well, I guess we will see how tough those air defenses really are. They are supposed to be less substantial as opposed to their land forces where they have 40 ground vehicles and trenches. At least according to the last intelligence report."

"Do you want to suit up before we make contact, Corn? Things usually get turbulent when we arrive."

"That's a good idea, what kind of gear do you think I'll need? You know what the greyhounds might need and this kind of operation better than I do." (I don't know how many specialists you have is there any role I should try to fill like a medic or some other kind of support role or something, or gear I should specifically bring?)

"I was thinking armour first of all. We have time to kit you out in the armoury, anything else is just a bonus." (We have most things covered, but if you want to usurl an NPC's role I highly doubt they'll complain)

"If you don't think I'll need anything specific I can just grab anything I need from my bike and the locker. Do you think lasers, stun, or heavy weapons would be best?"

There are some laughs, and Cass grins. "Open conflict situation? Do you even need to ask?"

Cornelius laughs too. "I guess. I haven't been in many large formal conflicts or active military zones before. This will be the... " Cornelius looks up counting to himself for a second. "third time, and that's only if you count the space battle over Alciblades. I'd never even worn a combat field uniform before I joined the UNW. Don't let my age fool you I'm still pretty green on this front."

Another hearty slap on the back is Cass' first response, and the general feel around the ship is one of anticipation and preparation even despite the light-hearted facade; Cornelius gets the impression that the vast majority of the men and women here have seen the frontlines more than thrice. The Captain starts heading towards the armoury, nodding in its direction to have the older man follow. "What size are you, I wonder? Extra large?"

Cornelius squints a little. "That seems right." Cornelius follows Cass a little slowly, but smiling despite himself.

(The ships got a locker fitting so you can requisition gear from it

(I wasn't sure if Cass had something specific in mind which is why I was trying to seem curiously interested. Since I have decent gear of my own with an icarus harness for armor, and a decent cache of weapons, and equipment. Although my harness is bright yellow.)

(You'll blend in with the fire better)

1

(The salesmen told me it would be harder to see in the daylight. They are the same ones who sold me rations before my sub journey though.)

Cornelius goes to the locker Cass let him use earlier and pulls out the yellow icarus harness and his other gear. "Will this be ok? do you have an armory on the ship? I didn't think about using a mag weapon or anti vehicle laser like you, that might help if they mainly use vehicles, right? I do have a rocket launcher if you think that would work better?"

"You'll be fine with that, aye. Didn't peg you for the heavy ordinance sort."

"I know enough to get myself into trouble. Have you gone up against fortune before? I just didn't want to bring something that would bounce off their armor."

"Good thinking, but I have a feeling what we'll be seeing is of the heavily armoured variety of targets."

"I was thinking of bringing my binoculars, maybe I could help spot for Needle when I'm not shooting myself?"

“We’ll be in their airspace in a few minutes! Whatever we are doing back there let’s tie it off!”

Cass nods in affirmation to Cornelius, happy to see the man knows his onions before responding to the radio. "Look alive, people! Once we've identified the targets we move fast and we move hard! You know the drill!"

(So the plan is hot landing to try to grab whatever you can?)

(I think we were trying to grab the operator, or maybe see what they were fighting too, but I wasn't sure about that part.)

(Yeah we want some basic recon to see what exactly is going on here)

1

A thick column of black smoke rises from the city, and you can see that the central corporate tower is aflame. "City batteries are tracking"

"Get me my intel, sergeant, I need it two minutes ago!"

"City nets are encrypted. All I got were two names, Malak, and Thorn, repeated over and over. They weren't trying to hide their identity"

7:12 AM

"Sounds like they killed everyone in the tower. That was all I got"

Cornelius eyes go wide at the names. "Thorn, is there another Thorn you know about? You've been on the military side of things longer than me. The only one I know of is the Doctor? I think Malak is that escaped prisoner, how did he get here so fast? And why would they be working together? I hope this doesn't have anything to do with those Jademane scans I gave Ad Astra."

"Batteries still tracking, orders ma'am?"

"Only one Thorn I know of that would be associating with someone called Malak. Set her down, we're going in. Get as far forward as we can, hopefully we can take advantage of this confusion. Once we're spotted, give 'em hell." (edited)

(There's going to be some dueling with ground defenses then, so who's at what battle station in the ship, it'll just be for a few rounds as you close in)

(Cass will take Gunnery)

(Engineering I guess? I'm not sure what I could help with.)

(NPC's will do whatever youre not)

(Do you have Program? You could go comms and fuck with anything attacking us)

8:59 AM

(Sensor Ghost is really helpful too)

(Skill 0 though so it doesn't do anything)

(its better than not trained at all)

9:04 AM

(lets get initiative, cass we can use yours, ill roll for the two ground batteries)

(10)

(6 for batteries)

9:40 AM

(cass first) Two surface to space plasma guns are turning their barrels toward the Greyhound, their crews rapidly charging the focusing coils

9:41 AM

Their positions are hard to miss, the heat readouts on sensors making them impossible to mask

Cass orders the fire returned in full, splitting the weapons between the two turrets. (Fractal Impact Charges 29(9 damage), 26(4 damage), Plasma Beams 17(9 damage), 24(8 damage)) (edited)

The emplacements are hardened, meant to resist orbital bombardment, to a degree )so actual damage being done, not just annihilating them like normal space weapon to ground fire(

10:04 AM

The two turrets are both heavily damaged, the majority of their crews dead or injured, but enough cling on to get a round off, (Corn up)

Cornelius looks over his station before crackung his fingers. "I'm going to try to get a little more out of these engines so hold on." (Boost engines)

(Sorry it took a bit to load, I'm on my phone, and on the road with my dad. it's 2d6+1 shooting for an 8 to raise ship speed by 2 until next turn (11))

(translates into harder to hit from the ground) The batteries, tracking as best they can, return fire, as you close in on the city.

(19/8, AP 10, second shot misses)

(is that worth taking a crisis? I don't know the go so I'll let Cass decide)

(your corvette will still have a good amount of health left without, but its up to her)

(I'm so sorry, I got called out almost as soon as I posted)

(Oh you’re good. It’s by post. Ligenjappens)

7:09 PM

(Life happens)

"Ligenjappens." nekosmash, 2019

(My phone hates me)

(8 damage is ostensibly superficial, we'll facetank this imo)

“Batteries ready captain!” The gunners mate calls )back to yu(

7:17 PM

(You, Cass)

"Is that the best they have?!" (Split fire once more, 12(11 damage), 31(11 damage) on one, 26(4 damage), 28(10 damage) on the other)

The two batteries go up as the greyhound passes over them.

7:28 PM

“We will have ground attention before long”

"Nicely done, Corn! We're closing now!" (edited)

"Thanks, picked up that little trick getting our engines running again over Alciblades."

On the ground, two small jeep looking vehicles are racing out from near the central corporate tower, to try to block the landing zone

(Can we turn the ship weapons on them?)

(yes)

Cass gives the order, and the Greyhound ordnance is trained on the approaching vehicles (26 (8), 31 (8), 13 (12), 25 (6))

The vehicles and their crew are thrown aside as burning wrecks as the Greyhound comes in to land

10:09 AM

you hear alarms beginning to sound, corporate security already on high alert

10:09 AM

(I'll tell you what;s around in a second)

10:11 AM

The ship seems to have set down near a public transit hub, an office block, a bar, a pocket park, and a medical clinic

“Keep up that kind of fancy shooting and we won’t have anything left to loot.” Cornelius laughs.

There has not been a Fortune Sports response to the incursion yet, but with available data, you'll have time to check a building or two before the pressure forces a withdrawal

(would the one with the drone operator be too far in?)

(yes)

"They said someone pretending to be a merchant was picked up outside fortune sports do we know anything about that? Perhaps we could extract them?"

The Greyhounds are already piling out of the Greyhound, in a far more efficient manner than this sentence would imply. "We're here to grab what we can that's valuable, and I'd say they would fit the bill nicely. Keep 'em peeled for this merchant, people!"

Cornelius smiles and looks around following the grayhouds off of the ship. He lags behind a little struggling under the weight of stun gear added to his pack at the last minute.

(so we have 5 buildings here, time to search a couple, whats the first one?)

Cornelius takes out his binoculars and looks at the closest building. (edited)

Cass moves alongside him, the usual laser cannon slung over he shoulder.

(theyre all about equaldistant, just need to pick one)

12:16 PM

(youve landed in a small square type area

12:21 PM

The ship seems to have set down near a public transit hub, an office block, a bar, a pocket park, and a medical clinic

1

Cornelius takes the binoculars away from his eyes and turns to Cass. "I was thinking the transit hub might be locked down, but they might bring the prisoner through there? I'm not sure what we could get from a park. The medical clinic might have something but looting a hospital while people are getting attacked doesn't seem safe or right. Which I guess leaves the offices and bar. That's just my two cents, what do you think Cass you're the one leading this operation?"

"Nah, you have the right of it; we'll hit the hub first and see what we can find."

"Maybe if we're lucky we can even find a travel plan for the prisoner escort transport."

"And some more information on what the hell Thorn was doing here." Cass gives the signal and the two dozen Greyhounds advance swiftly in formation towards the large terminal building. (edited)

Cornelius opens his mouth to say something, then just nods and tries to fall into formation as best he can.

Snap fire from surrounding buildings is answered with just enough in return to keep corporate heads down. Two of them breach the transport hub. Inside, a huddle of terrified civilians scatters and cowers to one of the corners. Dozens of bikes are connected to racks, along with a few ground trucks for those needing big cargo moved.

(When you say them you mean the people shooting at corp sec not corp sec, judging by civillian reaction right?)

((Corp sec is firing at you, taking potshots. They greyhounds are doing the same back. Corpsec isn’t making a serious push at you yet)

1

Cornelius breaks formation moving closer to Cass on seeing the civilians. "What do you want to do regarding the civilians? I'd like to avoid any potential casualties from crossfire, I don't think that will be a priority for corp sec though."

"We're not in the business of gratuitous killing or collateral damage... well, not entirely. My team knows better than to fire on civvies either way." She ducks down as a round of mag fire wizzes past her head. "Just get to the building, we'll formulate something when we're out of this!"

(You’re inside ur already. I told you what’s in there haha)

8:01 AM

It)

1

Cornelius tries to appear as non threatening as possible making sure to avoid brandishing his mag rifle or pointing it in the civilian's direction while he looks around for an office or someone who looks like they work there among the civilians.

Cass has the team spread out and begin Operation Have a Look Around.

There are two among the crowd in transportation safety vests. Aside from the bikes and trucks there’s a shuttered central office kiosk that looks locked down

Cornelius waves the workers over "You two in the vests, come over here please. I just want to ask you some questions so I can get you all out of here safely and quickly."

They awkwardly leave the huddle, eyeing the weapons you’re all carrying

Cornelius waits for them to be out of earshot of the other civilians before talking to them. "What do you know about the situation outside?"

"Leave! just leave us alone!"

2:27 PM

they cant seem to look away from your starship outside. "Take whatever you want and just go! there's no need to kill everyone for it!"

Cornelius speaks slowly and carefully chooses his words not wanting to scare the workers more."We didn't come to kill anyone, we are here to help. If you answer my questions we will get you to safety and be on our way. Did anyone dangerous come through here recently? Why did you assume we were here to kill you?"

“Four people outside. Armored. Killing everyone with grenades”

"Do you know which way they left? I don't want to leave you alone here if they're still close or have them hit us by surprise if we try to get you to safety in the trucks."

“Their ships are gone! Leave us alone!”

" If you are honest with me I won't have to ask more questions, and we will leave. Perhaps I can even compensate you and your friend for your trouble. Was a prisoner set to be moved using your trucks? Possibly you saw corp sec come through here with a foreign Merchant? Just because the ships lifted off doesn't mean they left the planet. We think they are following this person. Finally do you have the keys for those offices and trucks? We want to leave but need a vehicle to do it in, preferably a reliable one so we can get far away, and not have to come back."

“Keys are in the office, we didn’t see anything else!” (Also What prisoner are you talking about)

(The trader they said they picked up outside fortune sports in the meeting.)

(That was judge. That ship has sailed)

4:31 PM

A couple of the civilians are crying. Looking on nervously as the greyhounds pick through the building. Two of them are getting a portable ram set up to tackle the office door

(I thought so, but Corn and Cass wouldn't know that right? and if it was an off world trader we don't want to leave their ship for fortune sports if malak and the doctor didn't take it.)

)there’s no ship here but yours as stated several times jow(

1

4:32 PM

Now

"Thank you for your answers, we just need to get into the office and we'll be on our way shortly, it might be a little loud, but that is just the door. Covering your ears might help."

Cass sidles up to Cornelius as the Greyhounds knock down doors in the near distance. "Makes you wonder what their normal lives are like, eh? Maybe they like being ruled over in their desk jobs or something. Can't say that's a life for me."

Cornelius sighs and shakes his head. "If its anything like Saturnet, they're probably just kept complacent with fear of failure, anything different and catching blame or a beating for putting a toe out of line already. Even when things are bad it was hard to convince people to try for better for fear of torture, exile or worse, Reeducation or death. Either way we will have our work cut out for us freeing Rawhani and deprogramming it's citizens."

"Aye, but we will eventually. You don't recognise any of this lot then?"

Cornelius looks over the group before shaking his head. "Can't say I do, but with the Corp Cities keeping apart and the turnover rate of workers and slum dwellers, plus the fact I got most of those I knew to Stack City, not knowing anyone here doesn't surprise me too much."

They finally breach the door and there are two gunshots from within m

7:23 AM

One of the greyhounds is dragged away from the door, wounded but you can see they’ll live

7:23 AM

The rest storm in to subdue the shooter

"Shit, they didn't tell us someone was in there." Cornelius takes a quick look at the civilians to see how they're dealing with hearing the shots.

They continue cowering

Cornelius heads to the office.

Cass moves with him to the door, then shouts inside. "WE'RE NOT HERE TO HURT NOBODY THAT'S NOT LOOKING FOR IT. OUR MAN'S GONNA LIVE, AND THAT'S MORE THAN I CAN SAY FOR THE NEXT PERSON IN THERE THAT PULLS A TRIGGER. DO WE UNDERSTAND EACH OTHER?"

The two corpsec inside are both dead, one actually dead, one dying. Even with medical attention its already too late

(That was easy)

7:52 AM

(The power of a good shout)

1

Cornelius takes out his medkit anyway hoping he can keep him alive long enough to question. He moves very carefully and deliberately. "I just want to help I have a medkit, maybe I can give you some stims for the pain would that be ok?"

He coughs blood down the front of his tunic, and expires

"Well I guess he can't stop us from getting the keys now." Cornelius looks over the two corp sec to see the state of their uniforms, and gear specifically compads or some type of communication equipment.

they are wearing short range radios, as they're in their own city. keys are hanging up on the key rack

8:30 AM

outside, the gunbattle near the greyhound battle rises in intensity

Cornelius takes one radio, makes sure it's on but not open and hands one to Cass then grabs as many of the keys as he can. "Well they can't chase us if they can't open the trucks, and maybe we can listen in on them. Do you think we still have time to hit that bar? or should we just get out of here?"

"Sounds like we can do one more building. Go now, I'll back up where I can."

Cornelius fishes in his pockets and hands some of the keys to Cass. "Ok, Every group should have at least one truck maybe more in case something goes wrong. Do you mind if I take some greyhounds with me to help with loading, and so I don't end up trying to fight off a Corp Sec unit single handed? Also do you want to rendezvous at the bar or the ship?" (edited)

She barks some orders and several armed soldier fall in alongside Cornelius, ready to escort him. "Meet back at the ship when you're done. Might be hot, so take care."

"You be careful too, I'll see you back at the ship." Cornelius turns to the Greyhounds and starts going over the plan to enter the bar, and finding drivers in the group for the other trucks going with him.

Cass nods and moves towards the thickest of the combat.

(I didn't know how you wanted to break it up, but thought you could do the fight stuff with Cass first since I've been doing most of the talking to the civilians. Shouting that guy to death was pretty awesome though.)

(It's all good, I need to duck out for a few hours now anyway)

1

Cornelius tries to adopt a more upright military posture before addressing the greyhounds. "Do any of you have experience driving?, Or have any stun weapons with you? "

they laugh at the stun weapons question, six of them are ground vehicle trained, twice the number of drivers as trucks

Cornelius remains serious pointedly not laughing. "Well it's a good thing I thought to bring some with me. We want to avoid civilian casualties if at all possible as we plan on coming back and even having these people help us fight the corps possibly. Enough damage to the reputation of off world entities and the UNW specifically has been done already." (I figured I'd post the plan in parts since it seemed kind of long in one big block.)

"The plan is we take two trucks a driver and two of you come with me, with the other driver and two greyhounds in the second truck following behind. As far as finding the truck the two best drivers among you and I will evaluate vehicles while the 4 of you not driving will cover them. We leave as soon as possible to take advantage of Lt. Mcilroy's engagement while we make our way to the bar then the ship."

11:30 AM

"Regarding the bar I know we were looking for loot, but information of a potential dissatisfied element or even resistance and how to contact them could be just as valuable. I will go in alone without armor or weapons for this reason to evaluate. Hopefully the corps like suit will stop them from just shooting when the door is opened. The drivers will stay ready to go with one man from each team on the lookout for incoming obstacles. I will leave the short wave radio with you so that you can be aware of incoming corp sec. Two of you will be ready to drag me out and into one of the trucks I have a medkit, and a stun baton, and flop rifle for the extraction team interacting with potentially scared or hostile civilians. If possible we will try to use binoculars to see the state of the bar from range before approach, any questions?"

they begin assemb;ling, getting ready to leave, the trucks start without any trouble, well kept

12:11 PM

(something like that)

During Transit Cornelius hands out the radio, stun weapons, binoculars and medkit to the greyhounds on his truck. Then he takes off his armor back pack and weapons leaving him wearing the suit. "There is a toolkit in there if we need it, feel free to make use of my equipment at your discretion. If you hear something from the other greyhounds or on the radio and we need to leave send me a compad message or failing that a signal I will leave to you since Ill be inside and unaware of the situation." (Sorry about that I had to switch to my phone after internet went down.)

The two trucks pull up outside the bar, the greyhounds remaining aboard, hunkered down.

Cornelius hops off the truck trying to straighten the suit as much as possible. He pauses a moment listening for noise from inside the bar before going in.

Not hearing anything out of place he makes his way inside.

Several more workers are hunched inside, cowering away from the windows. There are two corpsec in here but they have no weapons on them

Cornelius looks for someone in charge or a bartender.

There is a bartender, behind the bar, shielding two of the wait staff with his body

Cornelius slowly walks over to the bar keeping his hands visible a look of concern on his face. "Is anyone injured? We were sent to help with the attack, but it looks like everyone was gone by the time we got here."

He does not turn around and compromise his protective position. He also does not answer, just holding the two wait staff tighter

"Sorry I didnt mean to frighten you just hoping to make sure everyone was okay and stays safe." Cornelius slowly backs away and moves toward the two corp sec officers.

they both look on angrily, in their body armor. Their rifles are next to the door, you between them.

Cornelius backs away towards the rifles and door talking as he moves to pick up the rifles by the middle carrying them more like clubs than rifles so it is obvious he isn't going to fire on them. Cornelius keeps his tone and manner even but projects so even the employees behind the bar can hear him as he doesn't want to push the already scared people, but maybe give them an out. "You know what, I will just leave, I see I'm not needed here you seem safe enough. If You're not feeling safe for whatever reason you can join me and my escort outside. You two disarmed corp sec officers stay here to keep the place safe. To make sure no one gets hurt for any reason I will leave your rifles outside where you can get them once we've left."

“Anything in there worth takin?” One of cass’ men yells

5:16 PM

(You guys can steal the vehicles if nothing else)

(Not sure we have the space)

Without looking back at the bar but speaking loudly enough so both the soldiers and peiple in the bar can hear Cornelius responds. "No, they were almost all civillians and low level security in there taking their personal belongings, vehicles or the source of their livelihood is not why we are here. I told them if any of them felt unsafe they could come with us for protection, we will wait a few minutes in case someone decides to join us, then be on our way." Cornelius winks and blinks like a crazy person motioning back to the bar with his eyes hoping the soldiers get the hint that they're watching and listening in as he moves closer to the trucks still carrying the rifles.

(I’m willing to wave it for this so you get some benefit for having gone)

6:14 PM

Nobody stirs or leaves the buildings. This is the second time outsiders in space ships have attacked their city today, and nobody knows who’s who.

Cornelius looks around at the vehicles in front of the bar,

The two military trucks you’re occupying idle outside. There are a handful of motorcycles and hover bikes outside as well, along with a corporate staff car

Cornelius looks for interesting symbols logos, or upgrades on the hover bikes and corporate car.

Gunfire is intense from a street over. “We have tanks coming! We gotta go!” The forward post yells There’s too much going on to accurately inventory everything but the fortune sports logo is on every vehicle

Cornelius waves the trucks on. "Go go go, Secure the ship site best you can. Use the trucks to block the tank path if you have to. Don't wait for me, I'll catch up, or catch a ride when the others pass through." Cornelius puts the guns on the back seat of the hover cycle closest to him gets on it then takes out his datapad out and tries to start it. (edited)

(internet kicked back on)

(I assumed that was how you would hotwire a hover cycle.)

The soldiers are absolutely not going anywhere near the tank. That’s a great way to die with the vehicle and they tell you that in no uncertain terms. One of them mumbled something about “clueless fuckery getting us all killed”. “Cass! Boss! We gotta to right now!” The comms officer says. “Reinforcements from other corporates are coming!”

Cornelius shakes his head as he stops trying to start the cycle grabs the guns and books it toward the trucks getting in the passenger side. "Go just get to the ship." (edited)

One of the soldiers sees you monkeying with a hover bike and kicks the side of it, breaking the safety bolt. It starts, and he runs back to the truck. The first one is already halfway up the greyhounds ramp

Cornelius goes back to the bike after leaving the guns in the truck, hops on and flies as fast as he can towards the ship. (edited)

All of you make it aboard and the ramp and exterior doors begin closing. Small arms fire deflects off the hull

Corneilus parks the new bike next to his old one then asks two of the greyhounds to secure it down while he takes his gear back to the armory and puts his armor back on.

Once he's done changing Cornelius rushes to the bridge and talks to the greyhound on comms. "Hear anything more from Cass or about the tanks yet?"

"Tanks are advancing, slowly. Cass should be coming back with the perimeter picket any moment now"

"Good, are we ready to take off when she gets here? Anything else we need to do before hand?"

"Soon as she's aboard we're leaving. we already pushed our luck with this run"

"You could say that again, I'll feel better once we're on our way back home with the prisoners. At least we have a little idea of what we'll be up against turning the citizens. Poor brainwashed bastards, hopefully it isn't this bad in the cities that weren't attacked." (edited)

(the lawyers you mean?)

(yes and the 3 corp sec, I don't know if there were any other survivors.)

(no one from here has come forward to come with you, i just wanted to make sure we were on the sasme page with that,b ut yeah, the others are captives, and there were no other survivors. Everyone left outside was gunned down)

(Scorched Earth policy)

(I think we are I was just giving them the option.)

Cass returns to the lander, with her men, everything before them reduced to ruins. (6xp, 15,000 credits) The greyhound heads back to Nova Heavy, to gather their prisoners, and plan what comes next

Cass drops the laser cannon to the decking with a loud thump, then lets out a long breath as she looks at the trucks filling her cargo bay. "Interesting choice, Corn. Not quite what I was expecting from a bar."

Cornelius shrugs."Well when everyone is either cowering or trying to murder you with your eyes your options are a little limited, but at least we got some loot." Cornelius pulls out a couple of the sets of truck keys. "These probably won't do us any good here, but maybe it'll mess with them for a little bit. Who knows maybe there will be something interesting in the bike? I didn't really have a chance to do more than look it over tanks behind us and all."

"Hey, I didn't want to sound disappointed. It's a decent haul, that much is true."

8:51 AM

"Any opinions on our lawyer friends?"

"They seemed quick to switch sides, and mentioned their families being used as leverage, I hope this means that we might have better luck turning people even from the council. We should get someone to look into the family angle if we can. Proving we could get people out and keep their family safe from retribution seems like a good way to start painting a better picture of the UNW."

9:03 AM

"Do you have any opinion on them yet?"

"If they're willing to come quietly I don't see any reason to leave them. They sounded like they were dead if they stayed here anyway after their meeting went south. I say we take 'em."

"That makes sense to me. Were you planning on interrogating them further?"

"Not personally, never had the patience for it. But I'm sure the guys in Central will want a word or two."

"I'll see who takes custody of them when we get back then, I wanted to see if any of the lawyers knew something about my son or the rest of the missing from Stack City, but I think I'm too close to the issue to do an effective examination."

After a beat Cornelius pipes up again to break the silence. "Well what do you say we examine our spoils now that there is time?" Cornelius looks down at the bike examining it more closely. Eventually taking out his survey scanner to look for hidden compartments or anything else he can find. (edited)

1

"Well looks like maybe it worked out that I was rushed, this bike is Milspec, should be pretty fun to ride, only seats one though. You think the Marshals will take us in for not having a permit?" Cornelius looks worried for a second, then starts chuckling.

"They'd have to catch you on it first!"

"I think I might need a few more lessons, before I try to outrun the marshals even with the boosted engine. Maybe we'll be ready in time for the race though just needs a new paintjob to wash off that stock Corp feel."

10:32 AM

"Does you keeping the trucks and rifles, and me the bike seem fair to you?"

Cass shrugs. "It's all being passed on when we get back. Requisitioned as needed, of course, but you can see how cluttered it is in here. Maybe I should look into expanding."

"Maybe you could get a free merchant for hauling, or board and take an enemy ship? That's what I hope to do, cheaper that way, and I don't have to worry about designing it. Thought I might look for some slave trader ship eventually. Two birds with one stone, and a good reason not to just shoot them down."

(If you decide to sell your lot. Cass, I can give you the total profit)

(If I wanted to keep the bike would I need to pay Cass and the UNW? I'm ok with that, I don't want to cheat her or take something that needs a permit without asking.)

(I'd keep the bike)

1

(Youre both trying to claim the bike? and you wont need a permit for this. I will tell you if you dont have enough face for one, but this is not big enough to need to spend any)

(I'll let Cass take it.) (edited)

(I'm just trying to clarify)

1

(No I mean I don't want the bike, you stole it, you keep it) (edited)

1:17 PM

(Sorry if that wasn't clear)

Cornelius looks at Cass with mock surprise. "I might have glanced over it, but were you interested on keeping the bike? How good are you at riding? Maybe you could teach me a thing or two." (Are you sure it's always cool to have more people who ride bikes, I might just paint it and give it back at this pount, I've given people bikes before lol.)

She shrugs. "I don't know, I've pissed around on them before but I'm no expert." (edited)

"Well I get it repainted then hold it for you incase you change your mind. That reminds me of something, I was planning on saving it for later, but now is as good a time as any." Cornelius continues talking as he goes over to his bike pops the trunk and starts rooting through it. "I don't think you came to my celebration party, about what size are you, if you don't mind me asking..."On second thought let me just bring out the whole box." (edited)

Greyhound soldiers head out of the ship upon landing at Nova Heavy, to take prisoners on-board and handle any loose ends. The vehicle wrecks have already been hauled away to be crushed, and recycled.

Cornelius pokes his head out of the trunk. "Maybe I should wait until we're in jump, or once we get back to Gundrun?Should we go help with taking custody of the prisoners?" (edited)

"Size?" Cass seems genuinely at a loss for the first time since Cornelius met her.

"Maybe it would be easier just to show you." Cornelius pulls out box from the trunk. It is filled with various styles, sizes cuts, and color of leather jacket, from one looking like it would fit a Large Piggen with 4 arms, to a child sized one that looks like it was made for a spider? The only thing really in common between them is the logo on their back, the front left pocket and patched onto the shoulders it matches the one on Cornelius' bike and Combat field uniform.

6:56 PM

Cornelius makes a face as if bracing for a punch. "So what do you think, I had a bunch of them left over after the party, and thought I could let you and the Greyhounds each have one if you wanted it or get one made if you can't find one that fits or that you like. I'll understand if you think it's too silly or something."

The prisoners are loaded upon landing at Nova Heavy "Back to Gudrun ma'am?|

Cass takes the jacket and tries it on, flexing her arms and making herself comfortable in it for a few moments before pausing and looking over her shoulder at the logo. She fixes Cornelius with a look, then laughs heartily. "What is this, a gang? I like it!" She shows off the jacket to the other team members, who react with varying degrees of interest, then gives an order to one of the grunts that Cornelius doesn't quite catch. The younger man disappears for a while, then returns and nods to his Captain. Cass clears her throat and puts on a mocking authoritative voice. "Cornelius 'Corn' Hardt, for your generous welcoming of us into the gang with the tackiest logo I've ever seen, and don't think that ain't a compliment, and for nicking not just two fucking great military vehicles, but a personal gravbike for yourself, under a tank offensive no less, I hereby bestow upon you the sacred crest of our own fine unit. Wear it with pride, my friend. And welcome to the Greyhounds." There is a jovial, mocking cheering as a small military patch is handed to Corn with exaggerated ceremony.

4:33 AM

The ship taking off again can’t even be heard over the cheers, but it is felt. A group of chained prisoners is led past the crew bay to the brig

5:26 AM

(6xp, 10,000 credits)

Cornelius takes the patch. He looks at it then Cass with wide teary eyes and a smile so big it barely fits on his face. He stands up straighter and gives Cass a snappy salute. "I will Captain."

"We got out of there just in time" the ship bosun heads back into the bay to advise you. "They scrambled some serious air. "

"Will they engage?"

"We'll be gone before they can catch up. It's some cutting edge stuff though. they've had help recently"

"Do they look like Remnant design?"

He shrugs. He's never been in battle against the direct Remnant home fleet before to see any of their fighters.

"Thank you for bringing that to our attention, it seems like something that should be reported in the debrief with intelligence."

The Greyhound rattles, as it exits atmosphere, and begins the 2 day jump home, finally arriving in Gudrun system space., cargo aboard.

(So does the message from judge or video of his execution come in first when we get to system?(also 2/30 days Taros?))

(yes)

8:45 AM

(to both)

Cornelius hears his compad ding, and goes to check it when he does the video plays. He shakes his head and sighs before checking the message. Cornelius quickly puts compad away before he gets worse news or throws it against the wall. "Well, damn." (edited)

"How about that, huh?"

"Let me see who we report to now. Cornelius fishes the compad out tapping through reports and information. "Looks like Marcion and the marshals. A good man for the job, I wish it were under better circumstances." "Should I send them a message to be ready to receive and question the prisoners?"

Cornelius smacks his head. We forgot to warn the engineers, if those flyers are low orbit capable they could endanger the salvage mission ." He frantically begins typing a message to Billy and the engineers.

(cass has no interest in interrogating, lets move back into own channels, if we want to continue that)

1

"I can escort the prisoners if you get your Bosun to write down a description of that atmo flyer. I can probably find someone to deliver the bike for me. Cornelius holds out his hand. It's been a pleasure serving under you. Don't hesitate to ask if I'd be of help on a future mission."

"The ship feeds would have stored everything we saw, don't worry about that. I'll see it gets passed on wher eit's needed." Cass graps his hand then pulls the main into a powerful hug. "You're alright, Corn. You ever need some firepower for something delicate, you know where I am. Well, you won't, but... you know what I mean. Your enemies are my targets, eh?"

"The same for you and any of the Greyhounds Cass. Thank you for bringing me along." Cornelius goes to get his things together before being dropped at the cloud.

(Cheers mate, sorry for being so sporadic with my posting the last week or two,)

(You're fine it was really fun.)

“Well. That was something. Least we got some loot out of it”

"Aye, that we did. What say we take a break and see to funeral proceedings before figuring out how to hit these bastards back harder." The question was phrased as a statement, and the sergeant knew it.

“Yeah. Let’s take a break”. He seems relieved

(For reference, since the mission got a little confusing, here's what your mission to Rawhani revealed, in terms of information)Force: Space Defenses- more detailed information is on the report cyrus gathered. Ground defenses- more detailed information is on the report cyrus gathered. No fleet. New knowledge about undersea central committee base, protected by subs w/ anti sat missiles. Wealth:

Major production center -1 per corp city on surface
Post-tech industrial base- 1 in Neptune Microsystems, 1 in Saturnetworks
1 military vehicle hangar, hidden in mountains near Fortune Sports, only central committee knows about it, protected by most elite forces. Possibly staging point for countering a land invasion. Cunning-

Smugglers- possibly Dr. Thorn, other small tramp merchants doing small trades, enough credits to keep companies, going, barely. Panopticon Matrix- Makes Central committee aware of almost every single activity happening in their cities. Inside HQ itself, but it has nodes hidden in various wasteland blacksites. HEAVILY protected by automated defense

Undersea base hhuh

intel is working some additional data down

12:55 PM

but yes

((I'll be ready to join the posse again in a few days, I got a load of work dumped on me a few days ago))

3:37 PM

((But some more money to go with it it seems))

((All good. Glad to hear from you)))

Good evening Captain Mcilroy.  I hope this message finds you and the Greyhounds well.  I wanted to thank you again for letting me be a part of your mission, and your unit even if only honorarily.  I was going to that club in Vapormills, and wanted to give you and the Greyhounds an open invitation, I'll probably end up at the military club in Prime eventually if that's more your style I'll tell you when I go there.  Besides that I was thinking of getting a Phosphor Tatoo, and had an idea to get symbols of significance or protection of the different cultures the UNW has encountered.  Sort of like a glowing blue high tech version of the woad like ancient Celtic warriors used to paint on themselves before going into battle.  I wondered if you knew of any cool symbols I could use.  I hope to hear from you either way.   

Your Friend Marshal Cornelius Hardt 


P.S. I can't believe I almost forgot to mention it.  I joined the Marshals, and caught a pyromaniac saboteur cannibal serial killer.  Also got 4 new people for the sons at the Iron Duchess fight.  Eight of us now, we'll be a force for good before you know it. I think you'd like them.

You might not know it, but  this will be the second time you'll save me from a desperate situation Captain.  I think I'm twice the senior of anyone in this club,  and woefully underdressed.  I found one conversation, but it was about fights, and I've only seen the one.  I think I asked too many of the wrong questions again.  Hopefully the other Sons are making a better go of it than me, this is supposed to be a celebration.  

Eagerly awaiting rescue,  Cornelius Hardt  

P.S. I swear if you save me this time you can draw the tattoo yourself with a blue crayon, hopefully you're too nice to hold me to that, but I'm desperate.

News from both Acastus and cruesa comes in showing that the UNW has triumphed over its enemies in both places, though one came at the expense of your dear friend Mr.Hardt. That said, there is no shortage of rebels or pirates who will need to be dealt with