Iron Stars - cornelius

Cornelius Hardt sighs as the refugee camp gate opens. Medical screening has finally come back clear. Issued clothing, some food, and a key to an apartment in a city hab tower (brand new!) , it is now up to him to make his own on a new planet. The world is green, a gaian world, more than youve ever seen before.

Cornelius stretches glad to finally be able to get out of bed. Everything is new, but old habits die hard now that he has free reign he'll see what odds and ends no one wants while he checks out the area. (would they have some kind of id for citizens, or has that not happened yet?)

(everyone is issued a compad which has your stuff on it, so its not authoritarian, but yeah, it is war-time, so they do try to ensure the right people are kept out of the wrong areas)

(The UNW also seems like it's more efficient or at least hands on than the corps. Would he be able to find scrap to add to his armor, or even get to it if he did?)

(yeah there is a junkyard)

(Would it be restricted though? I guess same with food scraps and things right since it is scarce it would be more controlled? He can go to the stores though and buy things here is that something he could do on Rawhani? Weren't they slave labor?)

(They were essentially wage slaves on Rawhani, here it is far more open. so if you want to go shopping or pick through scrap you can)

When Cornelius finds the junkyard and everything is sorted at first he enjoys the selection looking at the different types of junk for a while. Eventually though it loses it's novelty. So he goes to the commercial district. (Would they sell weapons and things there? I figured this was where he bought most of of his starting equipment. The most advanced is the laser pistols and tl4 backpack I figure he had the armor from before made from salvaged scrap over a long time.)

(they would yes)

(how close would the bar be to the shops? Would he have seen it while he was walking around or would he need to ask someone?)

(there is a bar in the center of the city, its not hard to find and you can probably smell the food)

Cornelius thanks the last merchant as he leaves towards the bar he saw earlier. "I know it was this way Harvest something." As Cornelius gets closer his stomach rumbles, and he smacks his head. "Why did I let them talk me into spending the last of my last credits on rations in the middle of town?" He shrugs to himself and decides to go in anyway.

Entering the bar, there is a lively atmosphere. Several dozen patrons enjoy drinks, listen to music, and gamble on video lottery machines.

Cornelius walks to the bar trying to draw as little attention as possible, and flags down a bartender.

The bartender is a garrulous man known as The Baron , who is actually the owner of the establishment. As he passes by he places a drink down , a golden ale with a generous frothy head on it, "On the house, sorry about the wait" he says, passing by to deliver a large tray to the end of the bar

"Thank you, u... mmm." Cornelius tries to get Baron's attention for a moment, then decides he might as well finish his drink first. While he does he looks around for a patron that might need his help. Someone that seems apathetic or down despite the warm atmosphere.

Two men in the corner of the room are giving a toast, there is a third glass on the table for someone who is not there

Cornelius leaves some of his drink, then moves over to the men and joins them in their toast.

12:53 PM

"Hello friends, to what do we toast?"

"A fallen comrade, he went on a mission to Rawhani and was killed there"

Then I toast him all the more, I was from Rawhani, and was evacuated too sick to move on my own he's probably why I am alive and toasting with you now.

"Maybe. He went to steal an armored train."

I'm sure he didn't hurt my recovery, and anything against the corps is sure to have helped it.

1:29 PM

Cornelius raises his drink. "To fallen friends, though they are lost they will not be forgotten." After this he bows his head for this man and those lost during the purge after he left.

"They will not be forgotten" the two of them reply, after you, draining their entire drinks in one gulp

Cornelius smiles wiping his eyes. "It is good that you don't forget the fallen, but you can't forget yourselves either. Tell me, what do you plan on doing now that we have bonded over this shared memory of fallen friends?"

"We're military, we have to be back at the barracks in a couple of days. This was the first leave we had since it happened"

"Well if you only have a short time you should do something exciting with the rest of your leave." Cornelius leans in and lowers his voice. " Since I consider you both friends of mine I wanted to invite you for an outing. I talked to Doctor Thorn, and we can take out her sub for free. In fact we even get to take whatever gear we want from the extra she has on hand, and I heard there is a literal truck load. All we have to do is pick up some creature she left down there and it's already dead. Plus I can't imagine your commanding officer not granting you extended leave after aiding in a major research project for the colony. I was lucky to run into this and to you too. The doctor is off planet so she can't do this herself and is willing to let us supervise in her place. Imagine that a trip in a submarine and when you get back extended leave I can't imagine your commander saying no to us after that, or even if he does, He wouldn't with Dr. Thorn asking him."

(did she offer this to you in PM?)

(She said it was open since no one had done it, and it was in the group chat yes. sorry almost forgot) (edited)

(all good)

2:42 PM

(didnt want to run something and then that person is like wtf i didnt authorize this)

(No, I wouldn't promise myself stuff that I shouldn't, I didn't even know about the trucks and things. She said just to message her this time using the format in her personal chat for in character questions like about the gear I think)

(perfect)

2:52 PM

"A job eh? What's the purse on it for our efforts?"

Cornelius lowers his voice even more "Well I only mentioned the gear, and trip and probable leaves because those are things I can do or try to do myself. She did say something about being rewarded depending on how valuable the sample and how many samples we bring back, but that seemed kind of up in the air to me. If I do get paid anything I will split it with you both, but since the submarine crew is already getting paid I don't think we need to include them in this, but I'll leave that up to you."

"Seems a bit dodgy, but we wont get thrown in the drunk tank out at sea"

Cornelius smiles and claps his friend on the back. "That's the idea."

3:01 PM

"Now before we go on a venture together let me formally introduce myself I am Cornelius Hardt." (edited)

(yeah the sub belongs to the colony as mentioned in looking-for-party; they may still be looking for hexes to get charted for their mining ship. The rest covers what we discussed: use of the truck and its supplies for land missions, getting whatever is salvageable from the corpse, and 1000/rp for every sample donated to Prime Labs)

(great!)

(do you think I should post that I'm looking to join an exploration crew, or see how this mission goes first?)

(I'd like to see how this goes first)

3:11 PM

(also i think almost everhone else is in a mission of some kind anyway)

(sure, that's why I asked your opinion before posting something)

(brb I'm going to walk my dog)

(I'm back)

They both decline to introduce themselves by name but agree to join the crew. There is a flight booked for you upon acceptance of the contract that is ready to leave

(sorry about leaving without saying anything, but I was literally falling asleep in my chair trying to read anything so I took a nap.)

(No rush. It’s play by post. Life comes first always )

(Thank you, for understanding, you have all just been very kind and helpful, and I appreciate it.)

8:47 PM

Cornelius is a little surprised, but more glad that they are deciding to join the adventure. "Well let me message the doctor, and we can go examine this truckload of equipment then head out to the port."

The equipment has been set out in the central office of Ad astra, directions are posted to your compad

Cornelius will show them the compad, then smile. "Well, it seems like we should make our way to Ad astra."

(I have the list if you need it?)

(I told them about the gear, so I figured we'd go there since that's in the town also I'm not sure if we need to grab some kind of transport to get to the port.)

(Ad Astra has built a railroad network that can take you there directly from Prime)

9:51 PM

(Or, you can drive to explore some more territory on the way)

(Ok I figure I can ask you about that in character, since I'll be discussing it with the soldiers and possibly using your craft, terrain etc, but if it's about this mission should I post in your chat or mine with the @ symbol or something?)

10:00 PM

(the black lines are rail lines not roads then?)

(Yes railroads)

10:18 PM

(Yeah just @me here/dm me for ooc questions or message me in my channel to contact me)

(ok)

(quixotic I think that was the word I was looking for to describe Cornelius though probably not so much as don quixote, but I guess we'll see. Sorry for the non sequitur, I just found it and wanted to post it before I forgot again. Sorry since you've both seen this post, but I figured that I would post it here and in the mission chat)

Cornelius comes up from the engine room dirty and a bit disheveled. @lictor "I told you I'd get the engine going in time for spike kid. I'm gonna go get cleaned up since we got a little time in jump. Probably be a party at the hidden spirit when we get back." (battle over everyone spiked out to nearest system then home just wrapping up stuff a little first.)

(Once I get back how much would a shave haircut and formal clothes cost? It gives lifestyle costs but I couldn't find anything like that in the books.)

(we just handwave that kind of thing)

(ok, and how would starting a shared story go, should I wait for something or just go for it and see who responds?)

1:35 PM

(I figured on the way back with I just pal around with the UNW guys on the ship and Ricardo if that's ok @lictor )

1:39 PM

After Cornelius gets set up with a shave, haircut and gets some fancy clothes tailored He probably goes to Pops to get the equivalent of a tl4 baseball bat and sword, then the hovercycle dealership. Finally he heads to the Hidden Spirit, but before Cornelius sends a message out to anyone he would have some questions for Baron. (edited)

The Baron is the owner of the Harvest Spirits, and out of all the things he loves talking about, himself is the chief one among them.

"So everyone seems to love drinking here, I know you brew your own stuff, but is it only beer?"

1:43 PM

"I also wanted to thank you for the free drink the last time I was here."

(also do the pistol version of flop rifles cost and weigh as much as the rifles 2 or are they 1 enc like laser pistols?) (edited)

(there isnt a pistol version made yet, as in, we havent made one, and i dont have an actual stat line)

2:25 PM

"Of course. And no, we do distill from local produce, and some terran produce we have re-created through found iron seeds"

(ok I wasn't sure since it mentions it in the book, but that might be a different research)

(Only the rifle variant from what I've seen)

(It was a foot note on the flop I'll post the relevant thing in a second.)

2:52 PM

"Do you know anything about mead? I was thinking it might be interesting to try, I was going to ask the doctor about what might be close enough to a bee for honey, I figure she owes me a favor anyway."

2:56 PM

(also is the charge for a hover cycle battery 6 hours just asking so I can have a decent number of big batteries on it if so. I think there is an upgrade for a weeks worth of charge, but it might be in engines could I get that? I don't want things that aren't researched just not to mess up and get stranded with a dead bike.)

3:01 PM

(also flop rifle limits and cure figured I'd post it all so you would know and could decide on how it works in. While useful against most assailants, targets in hardshell armor are immune to flop rifle charges, as are creatures substantially larger than humans along with those with at least two System Strain points worth of cybernetic implants. Someone with Tech/Medical- 1 skill or better can also formulate a combination of standard stimulants that will render the user immune to flop rifles for up to an hour with no significant side effects. The smaller “flop pistol” has half the range and does 1d8 damage but requires only one hand to fire and has the same magazine size. Both pistols and rifles use Type A power cells.)

3:08 PM

(it is literally a tiny part of the flop rifle page 3 at the bottom of the page I think I missed it until I was combing over the flop rifle specifically to make sure I did the stats right since you can't add it in.)

(Sorry for posting the whole block I know the in character question kind of got lost in there. I just wanted to make sure you got all of the relevant information. Maybe I should have posted that in a direct message or something or just given the page refernce.) (edited)

(okay so the only in character stuff here was about mead?)

(yes so far, sorry again about the block)

"Havent seen anything like bees here. The native plants dont seem to need it, the rest we can do by hand, the orchards are small enough"

"Hmm... I'll look into it maybe on one of the settled worlds. Would you be interested in me bringing you different alcohol or cocktail recipes? The locals might know something, or drink something we don't being from here, and there has to be some good drinks in the sector just waiting for the right bar."

"If you see anything interesting on your travels I'm always interested in expanding what we offer. I've just been awarded a contract with the armed forces, their base club, they're a cultured bunch. They'd appreciate that"

"I'll look into it then, probably give things a taste test first so you don't have to step into it blind, and no one ends up getting sick, but let you decide from there. This place needs a little entertainment and culture a club would be nice, do you know any performers?"

He points to the m,usic box in the corner. "Dank crew built an ameptheater in town too, and they have their own radio station. Actual hard copies of music are rare"

"An amphitheater you said? Do yo know how big it is? Or how I might get in contact with the Dank crew? Surely there is digital or live music at least?" (edited)

"I said there was" he looks at you quizzically "their information is pretty readily available"

7:19 PM

(they hav a faction channel)

"Thank you for the information Barron two last questions how much would it be to rent the bar for an open bar party, and would you mind if I worked for you sometimes when I'm on planet ? I think it might be more interesting than waste disposal and salvage, and I might learn a thing or two."

"To rent the bar for a night? 5,000, thats about the business I do in an evening, covers me in case you dont get the turnout youre hoping for"

"Alright, that seems fair I'll give you as much notice as I can, but I might be trying to do something to celebrate the successful mission against the remnant, or the other odd mission. Now would that include food?"

"It would"

Cornelius smacks his head. "I'm an idiot here I am ready to say goodbye, even asking for favors, and I haven't introduced myself yet I'm Cornelius Hardt originally from Rawhani. Thank you for not holding my bad manners against me. I'll try to give you some notice on renting out the bar, but anyone that comes in is invited so hopefully I won't cause you too much trouble." Cornelius holds out his hand to Baron and smiles.

The baron shakes it and slides his card deftly into your palm

Cornelius looks at the card pockets it and leaves.

Cornelius, thank you again for your work for Ad Astra so far. To answer your question about bees I have never seen one on Gudrun. My cocoa plantations are indoors and pollinated by hand, and the flowers here seem to either not need pollination or are pollinated by some other local insect. Although I prefer to stick to coffee most days, Gudrun has its own etherfruit brew I highly recommend, and the ciders are quite good too. I have heard that Terezinho has some excellent drinks, and I would pay well for any moongrass seeds you can find there as well.

(would you rather me reply to you personal channel or the ad astra? I figured that I would ask since this is possibly about different missions and particulars) (edited)

(Here's fine so neko can see it too, and now that you've contacted us about a mission we can keep that chat clean)

9:10 PM

(it's more relevant here)

9:12 PM

(around this point I usually leave the rest up to neko to sort out the particulars of the mission, like pay and transportation)

(The main thing that I was worried about was time. I wasn't sure, but it seemed like Robert had already chosen a place to go, and I was thinking of signing up with him possibly since I don't have a ship of my own, and am not sure if I want to be tied to Sueng until I could pay off his deal, besides that I don't have a crew of my own.)

(Ad Astra has shuttles for that)

9:16 PM

(it's a temp job so we provide a shuttle for the duration)

(either way I should probably contact him since I talked to him about it out of game, and I don't want to leave him without a full crew especially without telling him.)

(Alright you can always come back to this mission later, just bring it up to neko when you're ready, now that the idea's on the table!)

(I thought that I would, I also have some things that I would like to settle on planet anyway first, and it seems like there was a decent amount of possible exploring to do here as well. I should send you something in character saying this right?) (edited)

9:26 PM

Doctor Thorn thank you for the information and the offer concerning the seeds on Terezinho. I am currently without ship and crew though, and thought I would make you aware of this. In addition the only offers I know of right now are either beyond my reach financially, or going to a different destination. There is also some business that I would like to wrap up before leaving the system. Saying this I am still considering your offer, I don't want to stop others from taking advantage of it though so I will not post my interest publicly until I am ready, and able to secure transportation to Terazino.

(edited)

9:33 PM

(@Solace Sinensis something like that covers what I said to you out of character not knowing about transportation etc. right?)

Ad Astra can provide transportation anywhere, anytime through our growing shuttle fleet. Your main mission will be to lower Ad Astra's trade friction on Terezinho, with the optional goals of obtaining samples of the native brews and moongrass seeds. Take your time and simply send your application to our office when you're ready to depart. Thanks, Cornelius. I look forward to working with you.

Doctor Thorn, if I did undertake your mission would I be able to give copies any recipes of unknown drinks derived from things I returned with or received from the natives to Baron? I understand if this is not feasible, but I did tell you that I talked to him first in this instance. Though perhaps it might not be a problem if they aren't directly applicable to brewing or alcoholic in nature. Your offer of transportation  is equally tempting. I will message you with a reply either way as soon as I am finished with the business mentioned in the previous message.

(edited)

Doctor Thorn, I thought that I  would send you this message separately since it is of a more personal nature. About the party I mentioned before I saw it as a chance to meet the residents of the colony under more relaxed circumstances. I thought I would ask you as you are more familiar with everyone than I am. Also though we have exchanged messages I haven't really had a chance to meet you in person either. I was wondering if this was an appropriate time and method of introduction, or if the mood was to somber after such a battle.  I will trust your more experienced judgement on the time and guest list, though I think the price is per time rented not per person so anyone should be welcome. I might try to invite the few people I have had interactions with specifically.

9:56 PM

(basically do you think a big story swap would be a good idea inviting the people that I've met, and maybe some npcs directly and an open invitation to others, I'm still not entirely sure how it works.)

Wearing his fancy clothes under a long jacket Cornelius exits the Hidden spirit and goes to start his new hovercycle. He heads to the main office of the UWN, and finds a place to park it.

There are several spaces across the street, next to the park. Vehicles aren't allowed on the block by admin, fearing car-bombs and other asymmetrical attacks. Such things have happened in recent memory.

Cornelius will try to find a close one then, and take in the park a little, but quickly cross the street to UWN admin.

UNW admin has a line to get in, as always, but youre through quickly., standing in the large lobby of the fortified complex

(I had wanted to meet with someone, I'm not sure if I'd need permission to go to different allied cities since I think the situations there were in flux a bit and not all were welcoming of UWN or humans as they maybe should be. Also I wanted to make sure I went through official channels for bounty hunter and salvage permits also bringing things from other worlds if I might bring live samples of animals and plants. I also wanted to check since I think all transmissions go through the UWN about broadcasts and new programming. Possibly tourism in general and what might be impacting it. How I can help the UWN I guess. Also if possible, I'm not sure if something has happened since the handout I read, but it seemed like they didn't recognize the confederacy of engineers since they were more nomadic than a city, but why not or what the official position is. Maybe some of these things aren't as regulated but Cornelius is used to the corps where I figure if you weren't paying to do something you were in breach of contract or the law. Sorry if I'm misusing any of the terms or misrepresenting lore, but it sounded right. Cornelius would also probably want to check if he could verify that report on Rawhani, specifically the part about Stack Town. Since it was through intelligence anyway and they would probably be the ones to give him leads on anything else, and that might get him in the door.)

(let me try to break this down haha)

(sorry so first I figured Cornelius would try to get permits for everything like salvage, collecting bounties, brining new plants and animals back from other place, interacting with new races, and possibly going to the allied Taros cities.)

(Permits are assumed to be just given, adventurers basically have special permission to do almost anything. If a permit or something extra is needed, ill tell you, rather than making you guess.

1:47 PM

(As far as tourism, is this you trying to promote tourism, or are you trying to go somrwhere?P

(Sort of both, because I thought before doing anything too grand you sort of need an audience. It seemed like there isn't much commercial travel besides chartering a pilot's personal craft. I wasn't sure how much the Taros went back and forth between the cities they seem kind of self contained. The events so far seemed like kind of a live broadcast thing to only the area rather than the entire UNW. Although I'm not sure how, or if transmission between Systems would work.)

(systems within spike 3 range have instant communication now thanks to some work the players have done, otherwise its about a 1/2 day per hex, sped up from the book rate of 1 day due to some alien tech they got working. There is commercial air traffic just not a lot, Central and its other towns are just not big enough or amenity filled enough to get a lot of tourism)

( Cornelius would try to get in contact with the organization that made the intelligence report, I wasn't sure if that was directly part of the UNW or not. That would make sense though since it seemed like part of a large network having information on the Taros cities as well. He would think maybe they knew something about the current whereabouts of the daughters of Lotus possibly or the House Draconis knights. He is interested in them because from the report they are possibly the last known to see the people in Stack City alive, also they seem interesting in their own right.)

(it was Cyrus, in person)

2:00 PM

(as far as who made the report)

(would Cornelius know that it was him from reading the report?) (edited)

(yes)

(I wanted to see if I could get permission, or talk to researcher Azog, it seemed like some interesting experiments might have been closed down when his department was shuttered. Possibly see why the confederacy of engineers was overlooked as far as a seat on the council goes, and see if the UNW has any outstanding missions or bounties, I'm not sure if that would be possible through this office, or if I would have to go through the police.)

(this is fine, whichever one of those you want to start with, we can get rolling)

(probably the engineers first)

(Sorry I missed that, maybe @Solace Sinensis before your message if it's in your personal channel if you want me to see it)

The drinks and recipes will be yours to do with as you wish, but in order to recreate them you may need some local produce, of which I would gladly take a sample if you're able to peaceably obtain one

(sorry, about that I think I sort of sent it as you were logging of or going to another conversation. @Solace Sinensis )

That sounds good to me doctor. I think I will try to start your mission as soon as possible since you, and Ad Astra helped me get my start. I just have a bit more to wrap up here, you probably know what the line is like at UWN central. Then a few questions for Mr. Adonis. I hope he isn't angry about me not recognizing him at the party, or sort of snubbing him for Billy. Well either way it shouldn't take more than the day to resolve hopefully I'll be on my way to Therezino Soon.

(Neko this was another thing I was going to inquire with you about, but since it doesn't really have to deal with the UNW I was waiting until it became more relevant so as not to divide focus like in the earlier post.)

(well, which would you rather do first? I'

3:25 PM

I am quite lost now)

( I wanted to find out about the engineers since I figured that would be more in this office, the UNW missions/bounties probably second, I'm not sure if they would be here or somewhere else. I thought I would have to leave to meet with Azog so probably do that after, then talk to cyrus, but I guess that would depend on him a bit. Finally when I was more ready to leave maybe find some people and get the specifics about the moongrass seeds from Terezinho mission.)(Sorry about the confusion that's why I was trying to bring up stuff more slowly, and in the order in which it made sense.) (edited)

(so peeling everything else away, engineers first)

(yes, sorry about that I think it got complicated since I wasn't sure if you wanted to act out me going through being sent to other departments in character, but that probably would have been quicker in the end. )(engineers yes.) (Cornelius had just gotten through the first line leading into the lobby.)

Inside, there are several information booths set up, along with a main screen, with several current employment opprotunities scrolling down the screen. The colonial news, captioned, but mute, is on another screen

Cornelius goes to an unoccupied information booth.

The panels inside light up as you sit down and the monitor registers a presence there.

Cornelius will search for any information regarding the CCE and the Unity Vote. (Sorry about that I got distracted and forgot I was trying to search for the correct names in the handouts before posting the query.)

The Cce are blacklisted. They’ve been involved in illegal salvaging, and involving themselves in the fighting in Egons after their leader was assassinated

Cornelius searches what made it illegal salvaging, as he is interested in salvaging himself. (edited)

There was an agreement made that the humans and only Vapormills would be salvaging the enemy cities as they were the only ones engaged in fighting the helldiver robots

7:50 AM

The CCE was not part of the fighting or the subsequent deal

Search to clarify CCE's involvement in deal. (So did they recognize the deal then salvage illegally anyway, or were they just sort of not given rights, and went to salvage then didn't stop when told to?)

(They were not given rights and didn’t stop when told to)

Cornelius will then try to find the last mention of Stack City before the worm attack when the citizens were still alive.

Rawhani, an affirmed hater of psionics, viewed human life as just another commodity. Despite the odds, surviving exiles founded their own tenement city near an oasis in the desert, living in defiance of their corporate masters. Flushing them out was simply put, too expensive, and thus the community was allowed to remain on the map- at least until Greenbriar began poking their nose in. The Pillar of Salt was too big to hide in orbit, and when the dropships were tracked to the stack city, the council of corporation acted, sending a peacekeeping squad to gain control of the city. Kaleb was visiting, selecting the most hurt, or most in need of nourishment to be taken back to Gudrun. Infiltrators, and finally the agitator squads themselves arrived, and after a brief skirmish, the survivors laid down their arms, taken into custody peacefully. 5,000, nearly a quarter of the city's inhabitants, returned to Gudrun, and underwent medical checks before being integrated into the population.

"So, nothing more than in the files. I guess it was a long shot anyway." Cornelius sighs, and tries to bring up open UNW bounties and missions.

The endeavor board appears, along with some smaller side jobs. Most coming from ad-Astra

Cornelius looks at the board briefly, then pulls up the personal information for Cyrus Adonis. He then takes out his compad, and starts typing a message.(Before I type the message, for the UWN it seems like the roll20 handout is more up to date, is it the same for the other factions, or do they update here more often since they can change their own endeavors?)

(a lot of them post their endeavors in channels too since discord is easier to access during the workday for a lot of us, but i really do try to keep r20 up to date)

(it seemed like it I'll check both for endeavors then.)

@Garion

Cyrus I was glad that you could make it to the mission celebration at the Harvest Spirit.  I'm not sure if you remember me mentioning talking further about that intelligence report if you had the time. I know you are busy with the recent founding of your own organization.  This will only improve any intelligence that the UWN already has. I thought I would try to catch you though before either of us went off world.  I was unable to find anything further in the UWN database, and wanted to check if you had any further details about Stack CIty, or the fate of it's residents, or possibly a lead on the whereabouts of the House of Draconis Knights, as I believe they might have been the last noted people to visit stack city. I understand if you can't give any further information than the report already does, but I had to ask, as the last time I saw my adopted son Rion Burr, was after the attack when I was sedated and evacuated by Kaleb on the Pillar of Salt. The next mention was when he returned and met the knights and went there to find a relic. The only other reference I found was your report after the worm attack the settlement devoid of life. I probably won't be able to go back and investigate any time soon, but if there's a chance someone knows something I have to pursue it when I can. Thank you for your help and understanding.  
Cornelius Hardt.

(edited)

Sadly, I can't give you any more information than that which is already given in the report. My time on Rawhani was simply a light recon mission to document the defences there. As for the Draconis Knights, I believe they are housed in Rebirth on Gudrun. I hope they can give you more answers. I also hope you find what you are looking for. Keep me informed of the situation on the ground when you do next go to Rawhani. 

-Cyrus Adonis

Cyrus, thank you for your prompt response. I will check out your lead on the Draconis Knights. I will keep you informed of anything I learn on  Rawhani. You have helped me more than you know.

-Cornelius Hardt.

10:35 AM

Cornelius looks up contact information and current home and work address for Chief Reseacher Azog. (Phil can come too if he want's to, however we end up doing the Terezinho mission, I will let you handle telling him though as I don't want to mess up inviting him.)

Cornelius downloads that information to his compad then searches for any specifics on the Draconis Knights' location in Rebirth, or a way to contact them.

There is a comm frequency but details of their compound have been left obscure

Cornwallace downloads this as well and looks up Terezhino. (The information I would get here would be the same as the handouts correct?)

(yeah)

After reading some of the relevant information Cornelius downloads the map. Figuring he can fill in the holes once on planet he looks up the train schedule to Rebirth. (The trains would be faster and more reliable than trying to hoverbike all the way there right? Could the bike be brought along in freight or something?) (edited)

1

(yeah thats exactly what Dax is doing right now actually)

(lol) Cornelius will secure himself and his bike spots on the next train to Rebirth and head out as soon as possible. (edited)

(although if Phil and Kensh are ready to go I might get a call from AdAstra to get my stuff together and get down to the docks or something before I can check it out. I'll leave that up to you.)

(phil is almost done with his mission, Kensh hasn't been on that ive seen yet today)

(I thought I saw him posting something, but it seems like he's usually in that invisible mode. Let me shoot him a dm really quick.)

 I am unsure if anyone is there to receive this message, but I had to send it. If this indeed is the House of Draconis I think you are among those last to see Stack City's residents alive. The settlement is now empty, everyone dead without a trace. Supposedly the subject of a worm attack. I am unsure if they live, or not, but I suspect the corps had a hand in this. I was hoping that however unlikely someone would receive this message and tell me where I could find you, or at least find some answers. I found a lead that your chapter was now in Rebirth. That information and this compad number are the only things I have to go on, so I'm hoping something pans out. I am unsure what else to ask besides if you will meet with me, or at least share any information you have on Stack City, it's fate, or  on my son Rion Burr. My name is Cornelius Hardt I will find those truly behind the fate of Stack City and bring them to justice. For that I hope to have your aid.

The train heads to Rebirth, coming in to the platform at the edge of town. The town is dominated by the alien cryogenics lab for which the city takes its name, and the House Draconis compound, where it has chosen to set up operations on Gudrun until such a time as Rawhani is free,

Cornelius gets his bike from the storage car looking at his compad every other second. Finally he sighs and brings up directions to the town hall. Cornelius mounts his bike and revs the engine, taking off towards the unfortunate municipal building.

The building was originally a manor home, converted into a town hall. A large expansion is being worked on, building out administration wings.

Cornelius stops his bike as close as he can, hopping off then running the rest of the way and pushing open the door.

A handful of clerks are inside, moving between different offices and carrying notes. There is one behind the information desk.

Cornelius rushes to the desk looks at the clerk. "I need you to give me an address, I know that the House of Draconis are in Rebirth, but their address is unlisted, and it is important I meet with them quickly."

"They're hard to miss, and we don;t exactly have a street plan. They're the big compound with the chapel in the middle, just down the road"

"Thank you." Cornelius leaves as quickly as he came rushing to his bike. Then heads towards the compound the clerk mentioned. (edited)

The mission to Terezinho complete, and the samples taken for Prime laboratory, Corn finds himself back on Gudrun

After he waves goodbye to Kensh, R0-Bert and the Captain. Cornelius goes to follow up on the lead he was called away from for the Terezinho mission. He boards his bike and heads off catch a train to prime, and the House Draconis Knights.

The two footmen with energized polearms at the gate are letting congregants in, as a mass to Auguana is about to begin- their goddess.

Cornelius parks his bike nearby and tries to enter with the congregants.

nearly the whole settlement is here, those who cannot fit inside standing outside. You're one of the lucky ones that makes it in.

12:01 PM

The chapel is centered around a statue of a sea goddess, carved from faux-coral, rising from the depths with a torch, to shine a light on the goodness of man

Cornelius stays for the mass since talking to anyone will have to wait until then, and it seems like it might be interesting anyway to learn about their beliefs at least if nothing else.

Auguana is depicted as a great sky goddess, House Draconis taking her from the islands around the solomon islands of old earth , to the sea of space between worlds. Her followers believe that trees and land are sacred, as they offer refuge and resources to travelers among the void sea

2:57 PM

Travelers, pilgrims, and ship crew are among her followers

(What kinds of things does the mass include? Is a knight or someone in robes or clothes with their markings leading the mass /giving a sermon? You said the building was crowded to the point of people listening from outside, so anyone that lives here for the most part worships Auguana? Also I wasn't sure if they were from Rawhani or the relics were just there. Has Cornelius heard of this goddess before? Do any of the people here for the mass look like they are from Rawhani? I wasn't sure if there would be a specific look besides hard work and desert exposure since the main settlements were corps towns and I think they were bringing in people via the slave trade with the Remnant on occasion.)

The mass is headed by an abbot in cream robes, and a crimson trim. Abbot Wescott is the spiritual leader, advisor to Senechal Draconis, and serves as chief historian of the order- one in a long line of others who have held the role. The mass is short, and the message simple, respect your fellow travelers, respect the land you live on, and above all, work hard to ensure your corner of the world is the most beautiful oasis for the weary that you can make it. (I think as far as if youve heard of before would be up to you. She wasn't worshiped on Rawhani recently, their order is very old. I feel like the corporations would probably stamp out the prioritization of anything that wasnt themselves)

(Ok, then probably just rumors and the odd worshiper maybe in his time looking for stack city, then living in it.) Cornelius' sense of worry and anger have left him by the time the Mass is concluded. The message that was given here identifies with him on a basic level, as providing for others, and making the best of his surroundings have been his goals even before he left the Saturnet Slums. Once the Mass is concluded Cornelius tries to talk to the Abbot, and meet with him in private. (I wasn't sure if he would greet the worshipers as they left, or if there would be anything after the Mass.)

3:39 PM

(I used the Italics as I was trying something to distinguish self narration or more character thought stuff, but if it's too much then I'll just leave it normal like for character action or description.)

(works for me, and yeah he just kind of chills out up by the pulpit afterward)

(Ok, I thought I would ask you since you see the most character stuff interacting with everyone, and I didn't want to be confusing as I know some people use it for any non dialogue character things they post.)

3:45 PM

Cornelius goes to the pulpit and tries to catch the Abbot's attention.

He says goodbye to the two sisters he is speaking with, and heads over to you

3:48 PM

"Hello brother. Welcome to temple. I don't think I have seen you here before"

"Hello, thank you, you are correct, this was the first Mass I have had the pleasure to attend. I wanted to say that I appreciated it and the sense of community and welcoming that you and your congregation share, even with a stranger such as myself. Before we converse further let me introduce myself. I am Cornelius Hardt. " Cornelius bows with a slight flourish. "A former refugee of Rawhani, and now aspiring adventurer.”

"I am Wescott. Loremaster and spiritual advisor for the order. Nice to meet a new congregant, always"

"I have to be honest with you, Loremaster Wescott. Though I did enjoy the Mass and would be glad to join your congregation it was just a happy coincidence rather than my reason for coming.”

"Well, what was your reason for coming"?

Cornelius takes a deep breath. “Your visit to Stack City to retrieve relics was the last mention I could find of it until a report of the death of its entire population. The peace that Cornelius felt during the mass began to desert him as he continued. I was hoping you might know something, however small a detail, that might help me discover the truth of what happened. Who was responsible or where any survivors might be, anything really." Cornelius tries to wipe his face quickly as he fails to fight back tears. He is conflicted, he doesn't want to cry in front of Wescott, but he thinks it would be rude to turn away while talking to him. "I am desperate, I feel as though I have failed those who trusted me with their lives, escaping their fate when I was brought here. I … I … I left my own son to die. ”

"Death of the entire population?" he arches an eyebrow "Stack city was evacuated after the worm attack. That's well documented in UNW data networks. We were lifted here, to Gudrun, from Stack City. There are some others that went deeper into the wastes afterwards, they were probably scooped up by the corporations again after we left, no one returning the the site later was able to find any additional survivors

6:06 PM

"If your boy is alive, and not here, I'd bet anything the corporations have him. One of them, at any rate"

Cornelius is quiet for a time trying to collect himself and process Wescott’s words. “I don’t understand, you’re saying they are alive, and were evacuated with you? I thought only your chapter was extracted then. That report said the City was devoid of life.” Cornelius’ face goes from sadness to shock. “I believe you, but then I’ve wasted all this time. I should have been finding him, and those who followed me. Instead I chose to wallow in self-pity, and convince myself everyone was dead.” Cornelius embraces Wescott briefly. “Thank you, you’ve given me hope and a purpose. Do you have any idea how I could find them, or at least know if they are here? I’m sorry to be so selfish asking things only for myself. You’ve already helped me so much with just this brief conversation. Please if there is anything I can do for you, now or in the future don’t hesitate to ask.”

(It's devoid of life NOW, post evacuation. No one has returned to the site)

7:34 PM

(the intelligence report was written afterwards)

(I see that with more context and hindsight, but there are only 2 lines about Stack City. I feel like if I could misinterpret it Cornelius might.) (edited)

7:43 PM

(Especially since he was feeling guilty leaving them behind when he was wounded. He didn't really have a choice, and it was his son who chose for him to be taken. Things like that tend not to factor in as much as they might when people jump to conclusions filled with emotion though. Plus I like the way you rped it with me. Sorry if my misreading of it messed up anything.) (edited)

(it didnt i just wanted to make sure OOC you understood what was in there)

(Yes, I do now. I think I was unsure on it at the start, but recently someone was talking about 20,000 Rawhani refugees , possibly in the unity meeting and I started to put it together, but I figured Cornelius wouldn't as much since it would be more emotional for him. So he would be less objective in the realization.)

"I would check the census computer in admin- it will list the names of citizens."

8:10 AM

"Where they might be is not listed- breach of privacy. you understand"

"Yes, it makes sense that refugees might want their identities hidden. Perhaps that is why no one came looking for me."

"Well, we don't really screen who we take in, which may change, but never know whos being swept up with the refugees

"Do you think if I could find someone higher up in Stack City's leadership, they might know something?"

"It's possible, the evacuation was rushed between the worms and the corporate team coming after"

"Well even if I have to stake out residence buildings or ask around, at least I have something to do. It might be a little longer if they are being held by the corps though. Making myself better known throughout the colony shouldn't hurt either. "

He shrugs "All good ideas"

"Well since I have an idea of what to do in that, is there anything I should know or need to do before becoming a congregant at least when you usually hold Mass?"

“Not at all. Everyone has their own definition of good neighbor and becoming an island of refuge. Just bring no harm to others if it can be avoided”

"Would you mind telling me more about your order, or the lore you keep? I'm sorry if I'm overstepping, but I have tried to learn as much as I can since the fetters of corps restriction have been taken off of me."

'Rawhani was ours once, long ago. It will be again. That is really all I can say. Much of our lore deals with the construction of our mechs

"It seems like much of your history is kept to your order. You mentioned mechs, are you all experienced in the use of piloting them or using power armor and vac suits as well?" (edited)

"We are masters of using all of those implements of war"

"Could you train me or is that reserved for those in your order?"

"The training we give is very technical and reserved for our initiates."

"How might I prove myself worthy of becoming an initiate? It seems like our beliefs and goals align. I would like to work with you to retake Rawhani, and bring justice to the corps.”

I will be having a meeting with Kaleb and the others in a weeks time. Recruitment is one of the issues being discussed. Our footprint is small right now, and rebuilding will be deliberate"

Cornelius extends his hand. “I look forward to working with you, hopefully as part of your order. Is there anything I could do to help or show my potential as an initiate?”

"If seneschal opens recruitment, if you have the necessary qualities they'll come out during training"

"Then I will see you at the next Mass. Until then I will try to find someone from my old group in the slums, or failing that someone from Stack City. "

"Best of luck Cornelius" Wescott says, bowing slightly

Cornelius returns the bow. "Thank you, I am glad to have met you Loremaster Wescott." Cornelius leaves the compound and goes to his bike. He is unsure of where to start if anyone he knows from his time living in Saturnet, or Stack City are probably unlisted. So he continues to think about it as he starts to schedule his return train then has an idea. If the doctor hired him because he was a refugee from Rawhani, perhaps she hired others. At least it was a starting point for his investigation. He would observe Ad-Astra and see if anyone familiar worked there. It might be easier to ask the doctor directly, but she had already done too much, and Cornelius was afraid of breaking down in front of her like he had talking to Loremaster Wescott. Resolved in his plan Cornelius decided to book his train, avoiding the doctor might be hard, and seem callous, but it was probably better for them both at least for now. (It looked like from the handout that the main Ad Astra production and headquarters were in Prime, I wasn't sure which is why I didn't include it in character.)

(its in prime)

After finding a train to Prime, Cornelius went to the rail station. Looking up what he could about Ad Astra and the location of it's headquarters and production facilities in prime. He tried to find a spot where he could see the people coming and going, but not be seen himself. (I'm not sure how the area would be laid out or how conspicuous he would be casing them.) (edited)

Ad-Astra has their headquarters and base of influence in Prime as a large, eight floor office building. Industry for Ad-Astra itself seems to center on this building and dozens of people enter and exit at all times of the day

Cornelius watches the comings and goings as much as he can trying to scan faces using his binoculars if he has to. (He would probably look this way before trying to get a list of employees from ad astra directly, I'm not sure if they would have one, but probably for payroll at least right, well Cornelius will probably find out eventually.)

You see a handful of familiar faces from stack city, but not who you're looking for. of those who do see, they're not people you knew well

So I was right Cornelius thinks, but maybe no one I know works here, hmm (It hasn't been long enough to see all employees right? If not Cornelius would wait longer. Also have I seen the doctor go in or come out I am trying to avoid her so it seems like a good idea to be on the lookout for her and if I do go in do it after she's left for the day.)

(shes off world)

2:53 PM

(so you won't see her)

(What time is it about ? Would there be another influx of people in or out any time soon?)

(middday, and without knowing what they're doing in there i dont see how you could know)

Cornelius thinking this was the lunch rush, and unsure when any shift change would be decides to try to drive up and enter the building.

Three guards, one near the doors, and two other behind a security desk are involved in watching those coming in and out. One of the desk guards is watching you.

(Is there a service entrance, or just one main entrance to both the labs and manufacturing?)

(one main door)

Cornelius walks up to the guard that seems to be eyeing him. "Excuse me could you please help me, I am trying to find sample processing. I recently got a sample from off world that I believe that Ad Astra had shown interest in, but am unsure where to go."

He presses a button under the desk "Head down the door that just opened to the left. Down the hall, there's another security station

6:19 PM

"Check in there, they'll take it from you"

"Thank you, one more question before I go in. Do you know where I could find an employee directory? I was brought here from Rawhani, and am trying to reunite with my son or a friend that might know where he is now, and have reason to believe they might have found work here."

"I'm sorry, that information is proprietary, for their protection"

"I assumed as much, but I had to ask, do you have an inbuilding canteen or something where I might look for them? Or maybe you or one of the other guards have seen them as you check everyone in? Would you mind if I gave you their names and descriptions, you could tell them to meet me if you would feel better doing that. I understand you are protecting the safety of this building and those that work here. Please I'm desperate and any information would help " Cornelius pleads with the guard, and though looking a bit shaken, doesn't break down as he did talking to Wescott.

"Sure, the doorman inside will take your statement. We can't let you wander around the building though. THere are too many out there who would do us harm. We can't admit just anyone walking in off the street"

"Thank you, I'll tell them then deliver the samples and scans."

Cornelius leaves the guard and goes through the door he opened looking for the doorman.

The door opens with a slight hiss, and you pass down a research hall. The windows are shuttered, and you cannot see the work taking place within. At the end of the hall before the labyrinth of further offices and labs, there is another security station

Cornelius approaches the security station looking for someone to talk to.

there are a few guards behind it, as promised

8:14 PM

Theyre all watching you approach

"Are you the doormen I was told to give them some personal information? Then deliver any samples, scans and a short debrief to this security station I believe. I don't know if the guard at the desk radioed ahead."

"He didn't but we get this all the time. The samples and scans first- then we will take your statement"

Cornelius takes off his backpack and begins to rifle through it."All right, I am coming from Terezhino, I discussed that I would give some of my samples or there derivatives to other parties such as the Baron with Doctor Thorn earlier. Unfortunately I was not able to obtain drunkpods, or any recipes during its transition into UNW. I do have some samples, and scans taken from various cyborgs, and robots using Jademane DNA, the new Fateium ore, this is just what I am calling it I am unsure if it has been designated an official name yet, some things made with it or used in their make, and some live specimens, and seeds of Moongrass." Cornelius Takes out a live moongrass plant in some Terezinhan soil, some seeds, and the various specimen containers with Samples from the cyborgs in various states of decay along with the survey and bio scanner so the scans can be transferred.

"The information will be transferred into company databanks, Ad-Astra thanks you for your service. 600,000 credits post to your account for the donations of research material

(would I be expected not to talk too much about the facility, and would Ad Astra want to know where the samples came from, though it doesn't seem like it's a secret being on the publicly available map.)

(Theyre not going to ask questions, they have no idea what deals have been struck between you and company people who can authorize such research)

"You're welcome, would it be alright if I discussed the personal matter now?" (Would they keep the scanners, or just input the information.)

(just input the information, they're not going to take your personal stuff away)

9:13 AM

"Sure, citizen. Whats on your mind?"

“Hello, my name is Cornelius Hardt. I was trying to reunite with my son Rion Burr, after we were separated. I’m not sure if he, or anyone else have asked about me, but I would like to give you my contact information in case they did. Possibly convince you to send a company wide message if possible. ”

"Excluding the doctor if it's not too much to ask she's already done me some favors, and I don't want her to feel like I am taking advantage of her."

'We have a company wide list of the missing, or those whos relatives have been found. I'll add your name to it, if he's in Prime, or in Ad-Astra employ, he'll see it next time he comes in for work"

"Thank you, hopefully I'll hear something soon. " After thanking the guards Cornelius looks around. "Do I exit the way that I came?"

"Yes please, the door guards at the front desk will see you out"

Cornelius nods and waves before leaving through the door he came in. He stops at the desk before leaving. "Thank you, that went easier than I thought it would. Have a good day" Cornelius then exits goes back to his bike, and heads back to the train station to book a train headed for Central and the Harvest Spirit to meet up with Baron.

The Baron is always busy, but makes time to sit and speak with you for a while, polishing some glasses at the edge of the bar

"Hello Baron unfortunately I wasn't able to get any recipes this time out, but I did get some moongrass plants and seeds. I'm not sure how they taste, but I thought their glow might look cool in the bar, or in a drink if you're interested. Besides that though I had something to ask you if that's all right."

"Well, they might be interesting to work with, thank you. And of course, what did you want to ask me?" He gestures for one of the barmen to take the plant into his office so he can look it over later on

Cornelius hands over the plant and seeds. "Well I know you work the bar yourself, and pretty much own every bar in the UWN. I was wondering if you knew which bar the Rawhani refugees might frequent, or maybe if you or one of your bartenders might have seen my son or one of my crew, maybe even one of them came asking for me. I recently found out they're alive, but I'm not sure if they made it here or not, or where they might be living or working if they did."

"Do you have a picture or anything? They dont really have a set place to gather, The refugee group split among the different settlements. I think it really came down to where they could find work"

Cornelius pulls out his compad. Well, the last time I took a picture he looked like this. For the others maybe scrap armor, from Rawhani, around my age give or take a few years. (I'm not sure if you wanted me to do descriptions on the less important npc's. Maybe I could look for a group image though or something?) (edited)

(this is plenty)

(Ok, I just wanted to say I added in the edit of around my age since sometimes edit's are hard to notice.)

(Oh this is what i figure Cornelius looks like after he got himself cleaned up and was going to have the party see the nights etc. I just have to figure out how to shrink the image to put it in the discord circle)

Cornelius. This is Kensh. I’m in a spot of bother in the Port. Robbery gone wrong, can’t leave on train, stations locked down. Can you get here with a bike? I can explain more when you’re here.

Seeing the trains are closed and that's the main mode of transportation Cornelius looks for planes, or space ships to rent, but that is locked down as well. Finally having a plan he messages Kensh.

"Baron something has come up, I would be grateful if you could show that picture to your people, but I need to get a friend out of trouble right now."

4:56 PM

"Um... know any good lawyers?"

“I know a couple. I’ll see what I can do”

Don’t take too long. I’ll find somewhere to lay low. Thank you Cornelius.

"Thank you Baron if you could have one of them meet me at the police station I would be even further in your debt."

"I'll see what I can do, the hour is inconvenient for some of them:

"Well I could pay a good retainer this is important, I need someone that would represent Kensh though and not have a conflict of interest or morals taking a case against the UNW. I think he tried something dumb and got in over his head. I'm going to try to get him out in one piece if I can with no more fatalities. Wish me luck Baron." (edited)

"Be well Cornelius. I'll keep an eye out for your Rawhani folk"

"Thank you Baron, that takes a weight off me at a time I need to be at my best. If you let me I promise to pay you back for all you've done for me, even if it takes some time." (edited)

5:31 PM

Cornelius leaves the bar with a wave to Baron. Then starts his bike on the lookout for police, troops or marshals on the way to the police station. The mixture of trying to be observant of traffic laws, and rush there is frustrating.

Several police cars are heading for central admin, speeding by, and another group is heading for the psychic academy, fearful that this act is the Umbra Mortalis, finally here to do whatever it is he's been instructed to do

Cornelius spends time finding a parking spot and makes sure before he enters or even walks to close he puts anything that could be considered a weapon, and even his armor in the trunk of the bike.

5:38 PM

bringing mainly gear and the medkit.

5:44 PM

Left wearing his fancy robes.

(I just want to give Marcion a chance to move his part of the investigation forward a bit. I don't want to let anyone get too far ahead just because they were here to post at the same time)

(Ok, I understand that. Would the police station be marshals as well? I thought that it was a different force.)

(police and marshals are different0

6:09 PM

(marshals are more inter-government)

(Who would be deployed for this, or would it be both and UNW soldiers too.)

(All you know is what I described)

(Ok, so the police cars are out, and that transit is locked down, right?)

(Right)

(Thank you for clarifying.)

Cornelius approaches the police station.

The station is busy, with other officers taking orders and getting ready to move out and secure other sensitive areas.

Cornelius looks for the station desk.

The station desk is just inside, three officers are behind i

11:56 AM

t

Cornelius approaches the desk,and the middle officer. "Hello my name is Cornelius Hardt. I wanted to talk to someone about the incident on the news I have some information and I thought I could help or at least wanted to try."

His expression darkens. "Alright. of course. I can take your statement"

12:04 PM

he takes a datapad from a charging cradle on the desk and begins making notes on a report

12:05 PM

"Please begin"

"Well as I said my name is Cornelius Hardt. I have worked with the person I believe is the suspect before. I thought our personal friendship might help in taking them in without further harm or death on either side. I also am in contact with them and can confirm their general location and that they have changed their appearance. I wanted to bring this information to someone who could use it but also possibly assist in taking them in alive if I could."

"They're 1800 miles away from Central right now, and the SWAT team just got there. If you have a way to get in touch with this person I urge you to get them to turn themselves in:

12:12 PM

(what do you mean by general location? they know hes in the port and its general area, but what were you going to provide)

"I told them to do that and avoid a confrontation, I'm not sure what they will do though."

12:13 PM

(the port I guess lol but they already know that, but Corneilus doesnt know they know.)

12:15 PM

"I thought if I was there in person I could talk them down if it comes to that? Since they know me but the trains were locked down so I thought coming here was my best course of action."

12:19 PM

"Do you think I should message them again to surrender themselves a swat team after them seems serious?"

"Like I said, if you have a way to reach them, I would suggest urging them to turn themselves in"

"I just wanted to check with you before taking out my compad or sending a message, I don't know what the procedure is and I know things are a bit on edge right now. I will do that now then if it's ok?"

he makes a gesture that seems to say "please proceed"

Cornelius slowly takes out his compad and messages Kensh.

1:08 PM

Cornelius puts his compad away.

1:09 PM

"I told him the situation and that he should turn himself in. I'm sorry if that backfires but I thought being honest with him would work best."

1:13 PM

Cornelius takes his compad out again. "I just thought of something I'm not sure if he'll go for it but if I could get him to give his exact location and disarm would that help with taking him alive? I don't want to ask if you think it will just get him shot, but you know the team and the one in charge better than I do."

"You're asking the wrong person. I'm not on the ground over there. I have no idea what the situation is like"

"Well I'll try anyway it couldn't hurt right?

he shrugs "Like i said, I have no idea"

Cornbelius takes out his compad again.

1:33 PM

"Well I think I've done what I can from here now we wait I guess."

will surrender if forced, won’t turn myself in.

Cornelius reads the message on his compad and his face slackens. He looks around to see if the lawyer has arrived yet.

“It appears your friend was taken peacefully. Assuming there’s no further incidents he will be met at the jail. Thank you for your help bringing this matter to a peaceful conclusion”

"You're welcome I am glad that he was taken in peacefully at least. I am somewhat unfamiliar with how trials or questioning would work here. I think his lawyer was supposed to meet me here though is there a place I could wait? While I'm here I also wanted to make an inquiry about some people. I was separated by my son since we came to the UNW at different times, but I can't find him or any mutual friends since their contact information is blocked because they are refugees from Rawhani. I don't know if you could help me."

“You’ve done your part. You won’t be permitted to sit in on the questioning or court procedures. It would be a confidentiality violation. If you give me a name I can look him up and see if he’s a citizen. One good turn deserves another”

"Of course I meant the lawyer would sit in if anyone, and his name is Kensh, I'm not sure of the Lawyers name I was in a rush to get here the Baron said he would try to set it up and a recommendation from him was good enough for me. I just meant I would wait in the lobby or somewhere if you needing anything more from me on the personal matter and to make sure the lawyer was paid."

6:19 PM

"My son's is Rion Burr if that's what you meant. I'm still a little jumbled from things I apologize."

6:19 PM

"He would be from Rawhani like myself or the others."

He presses a few keys and frowns. “No one by that name has emigrated”

(could I list off some of the groups names now? I'll probably ask in character but I want to have them ready if if you say it is ok.)

(Group names?)

(If anything I figured Cornelius would write them down to also check so you could respond all at once rather than name response 12 times that seems a little much.)

(I mean as long as you’re not planning on dropping a bunch of different factions on me)

(No this is all backstory, the scavenger crew who is now either captured or UNW citizens so don't need to swipe stuff and probably retired at least right now.)

6:50 PM

(retired meaning no longer part of the crew.)

6:51 PM

(they also might have been desert rangers in stack city in leading people across the desert during escape then gathering supplies once there to help.)

6:52 PM

(the main faction affiliation now would be employee of, and citizen of the UNW depending on where they were placed for jobs I guess.)

(Gotcha)

"Do you have something I could write with and on or I could type it into my compad or send you a message I guess I don' t know if you want me to say twelve names you'd have to type. I know that's quite a few but I'm hoping one of them made it here, and I could see why Rion and the others didn't."

“Go ahead and type them out. I’ll run them through the database”

"Thank you even if you don't find them you've been a great help."

7:13 PM

Wyatt Locke, Weldon Locke, Rhenick Avros, Burkhart Baehr, Arden Sonoda, Issac Centrich, Armand Thoran, Lenard Rosek, Gaston Zemke, Skylar Hyland, Maxwell Ducote, Keneth Dewitt

"Skylar...she's been inducted into the UNW army"

"Could you tell me where I might find her? or send her my contact information? Thank you, but was she the only one that was shown immigrated? I think the ones that didn't including my son might be in corps custody, but I'll confirm that talking to her hopefully."

"That's the only hit I have. If they're part of the UNW anywhere, they'd be in this database"

"Alright, I think I might have some people I could ask if I run into another wall. Thank you for your help. I'm not sure if you drink when you are off duty, but I'll find some way to return the favor you have done for me. Please don't hesitate to ask if you think of something I know it's your job but, thank you. I might try to look them up on my compad. Is there somewhere I should wait for the lawyer? If they come to you could you please direct them to me? Sorry if I'm a bit nervous I've rarely been on this end of one before, dealing with the corps."

'They won't be coming to you. The proceedings are between Kensh, his legal professional, and the courts now"

"Alright do I need to meet them later then, don't I need to pay them? Do you mind if I try to find specifics about Skylar before heading out? I don't want to get in the way after you were so kind. Sorry if I seem a bit odd thanking you and commenting on that. Most of my experience dealing with government and security was with the corps and they weren't as helpful or kind as you have been. "

"I can't give you any more than I've given already. The database is limited. We don't need it for investigations"

"I'm sorry I meant look them up on my compad like you suggested, but if I can't find anything maybe messaging some UNW soldiers I met at Harvest a little while ago. I just wanted to wait in case I needed directions to somewhere or something, but I didn't want to get in the way since you seemed to be busy. Do you know if the trains will be running again yet?"

'Probably not until the morning. They're going to need to keep sweeping and make sure he was acting alone"

9:51 AM

"This attack is on top of the cult uncovered in the southern hab district today, we can't be sure this isnt related"

"I know my word isn't worth much, but I don't believe it is, just a botched robbery by an overzealous mercenary. The serious nature of it is why I wanted to do what I could, plus I thought if he knew he had someone who would help him through even this he might be more likely to surrender peacefully."

"For the courts to decide now. I'll pass the word along though that you've done what you can to help. Maybe it'll carry some weight in the future"

"Thank you for that, I do hope to do what I can to help the UNW especially now that it is my home."

"I was wondering, it might be a stupid question. Do you think there is anything I could do for the families or the people hurt by this? I know someone who helped their attacker in any way is the last person they would want to see, but I thought I would at least try to do something if I could. I know any medical expenses will be covered by UNW but is there anything I could do?"

"you'd need to travel out there and talk to the families. I really couldn't tell you"

"I'll try to see what I can do there then, maybe people closer to them might know of something. Thank you again, since I'm not needed here I have several things to look into while transportation is shut down." Cornelius waves to the officers behind the desk then leaves. He heads toward the exit. It's probably better to send messages from home than at the station or in the street.

12:01 PM

Cornelius gets on his bike after leaving and drives back to his apartment. Once inside he starts to look up Skylar and the UNW armed forces on his data pad. (edited)

The only information is just some general recruiting information, but you do see they have a new base being built near Prime, under the leadership of Advisory-General Arimoto

Cornelius looks up General Arimoto as well as Lex and Ed the two UNW troops he met at harvest.

(arimoto is a PC, so you can message there if you need to ask something) Lex and Ed are both deployed west in the taros city of Egons, helping with peacekeeping efforts and reconstruction

(Would old books or movies be accessible on the UNW network?)

(not really, that stuff would have been in data cores coming later, and it never arrived due to the scream)

1:30 PM

(finding that stuff is a little emphasized but greatly needed thing)

Cornelius looks into the compound. (Is this the same one that Baron mentioned with the club?)

(no, thats Vapormills)

Cornelius looks into the marshals.

3:35 PM

After confirming they would have investigated Kensh, and who is currently in charge he looks into the Taros Fight League.

Cornelius. I’m out. My freedom was bought by the Grey Combine. I’m not sure what’s going to happen to me now, but I’d like to meet with you before I’m banned from UNW space. Tell me where’s easiest for you.

After reading Kensh's message Cornelius opens a bottle of something strong he had picked up after the party. and takes out a few glasses.

I’ll be over as soon as I can.

Theres a knock on the door of the apartment as Kensh let’s himself into the apartment. “Cornelius?”

Cornelius looks over from the table. "Welcome, do you have time for a quick drink? Who is your friend? I'll get another glass."

“Sure, I’ll drink. And that’s Raen. He’s my escort, I suppose the Greystar Combine don’t want me escaping after they’ve paid for me.”

"Well if it keeps you out of prison and from being executed could be worse I guess." Cornelius gets a third glass fills them, then gives one to Kensh."So what happened you said robbery gone wrong?"

Kensh sits and sighs. “I was stealing a recipe for the Baron. Chemically brewed beer made by this place in the Port. It was going well, got in unnoticed, until two fellas brewing the beer in a basement noticed me. A fight happened, everyone upstairs heard and came down, I took the recipe and tipped the table of brewing equipment and acid on them.”

3:11 AM

“No one was meant to die, and I definitely wasn’t meant to get arrested.”

"Acid? I guess that makes sense, that sounds bad. I'm sorry I couldn't do any more, the police were everywhere, any kind of transportation was locked down, and a bike would have taken too long. Do you have any idea what they want you for?" Cornelius squints at the armored figure before taking a drink. (edited)

“It’s fine, thank you for your help. Anything more would have gotten us both gunned down.” He looks over at Raen. “That’s a good question. Infiltration I suppose, information gathering, what the Combine does best.”

"Hopefully it will at least be interesting. While you were getting that recipe for the Baron I was running down leads on anyone I knew to see what happened to them." Cornelius a little shaken finishes his drink.

“People you knew before you came to the UNW? Any luck?”

"I met some nice people from Rawhani, the Knights of Draconis, I might even be able to pilot a Mech by the time we meet up again. Depending on if I'm let in and how the training goes."

3:34 AM

"They told me they weren't dead, but evacuated I had just misread the reports, I guess there is a reason the combine is the only real intelligence agency worth anything. Maybe if they weren't here they were in corps custody. Sounds like something my stupid son would do stay behind and get himself captured doing something stupid. Well it seems like he roped most of them into it to only one got here and she's working at that new army base. I might try to talk to her tomorrow once the trains have opened back up." (edited)

“It might be a shot in the dark, but if you can give me a list of names, or even just your sons, I’ll keep my eyes peeled. You never know what I might find or who I might come across.”

"Sure he's Rion Burr. I can send you a message with a picture and the other names later or write them down for you or something. Trying to commit twelve names to memory might be a little much to ask. Anything you can find out about them, Rawhani or a weak spot in the corps I would be grateful for. I'm sure you'll find your place over there before long. They probably didn't spring you on a whim. Something that quick must have been setup for a while. These are the people that can build a whole space station in a matter of weeks I doubt they do anything by accident."

Kensh nods and stands. “Rion Burr. Send me a message with more names and a picture. And again, thank you.” He hands Cornelius a credstick with 7,000 credits on it.

"What's this for, if anything I probably owe you after the payday I got turning in the scans and samples to Ad Astra." 600,000 credits. I mainly went to see if they could help me find anything, but that's a hell of a payday for some plants and things we found rotting down there."

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to undervalue your gesture. I appreciate you trying to pay me back, but it's unnecessary now. I can send you off right. I figure we could split it maybe in half or thirds. Whichever. If it comes to it I'll give the captain his third out of my half. Besides I wanted you to keep the bike and stuff anyway someone has to rep the Sons of Corn out there, and that way you won't forget one day we'll meet up on Rawhani and take down the corps."

Kensh pockets the credstick. “600,000 huh? I’ll take 100k of that, keep the rest for yourself or the Captain. I hope we meet again some day, and I hope you find Rion.” He reaches out to shake Cornelius’ hand.

Cornelius shakes Kensh's hand. "Thank you, I'll transfer the credits to that cred stick before you leave. It might be safer than putting directly in your account right now. I'll make sure we will. When your a combine big shot I'll probably be the one needing a favor from you, good luck whatever you end up doing out there you'll have at least one friend on this side."

Kensh finishes his drink and throws Cornelius the credstick. “Combine big shot. Not too sure about that.*

"Ah, I'm sure Rean will be working for you one day, running the place in two." Cornelius laughs takes out his compad and opens his account then transfers 100,000 to the credstick.

The light on the end of the stick glows amber, pulses twice, and finally turns green as the transfer is accepted

“Well, we’ll get going.” He turns to leave, telling Raen he needs to pop by his apartment to get his hovercycle.

Cornelius waves to them both then finishes the drink he poured for Raen after they leave.

12:07 PM

Cornelius sighs and goes to take a shower. He sets an alarm to wake him up early the next morning then quickly falls asleep.

12:09 PM

When he wakes up the next morning Cornelius reaches for his compad, both to turn off the alarm and send out a few messages.

12:16 PM

Baron I hope you are ok, I know some pretty crazy stuff ended up happening yesterday.  I was thinking and I know things would sit better with me if I tried to do something for the people that Kensh hurt whether he meant to or not their lives and those of their families will not be the same.  To this I was wondering if you had any contact with the Marshals or the port community?  Either would know who was effected,  I know they might not want to hear from us right now, but I feel like I should at least try to do something.  On a happier note.  I found someone who might be able to tell me what happened and why only one of my old crew made it off Rawhani.   Her name is Skylar Hyland and she is working under a general Arimoto.  I figured since you got a contract with them an introduction with you might carry some weight.  Sorry if I woke you up, I'm hoping to get ahead of these things so I don't lose my lead, and to best help those people.  Thank you in advance.

Thank you. I’ll keep a look out and get back to you if I hear or see anything.

Cornelius smiles at the message, and decides to work on his writing. He still will have to find an artist, but the potential stories are shaping up at least, he wishes he could say the same for the music.

Happy to bear from you Corn! You’re ideas sound good, and I’ve yet to work with Fateium, so this sounds beneficial to me as well. You said it’d still be a bit in the future, so I’ll sit tight for now and look forward to your follow up message.

(Just so you know, Billy's engineer group is already working on nulmetanium armor)

(Curse you, but he's away on a mission, and I saw Neko say Fateium I swear. This isn't over Captain Fate. Also I used that name when I gave Ad Astra the samples, or scans of samples which I think I was planning on giving to billy also.) @Regulus/Grupp

(It would have just been scans, I took all the vials. And Billy has some already. And even if everyone else starts calling it Fateium, Regulus never will

)

4

(That's ok, even if I lose the battle. The common name will stick, or I'll think up some cool names using Nulmetanium. No one uses the scientific notation forever.) (also in his comic book Captain Fate will.) @Regulus/Grupp (edited)

The next morning you see that transport is operational again, and business in Central is back to normal

Cornelius heads to the train station to catch a train to Prime. He pulls out his compad and messages Arimoto on the way.

Arimoto sends a reply. "Greetings. I will arrange for Skylar to be granted a two day leave to Prime so that you can meet. The base is still being constructed so there's not much active training anyway, but I'd prefer you meet either at the train station or in Prime. I've been advised by my legal consult that having non-military/non-contracted personnel on an active construction site is 'a suit waiting to happen'. Good luck."

If that's a problem technically I've done work for Barron, but I don't want to put words in his mouth.  Meeting off base should not be a problem though thank you.

((Just making an excuse so that if you want to hang out or go do something together it's not an extra hoop to jump thru.))

(Ok, thanks.)

With the time on the train Cornelius decides to message Marcion as well since he's the ranking Marshal on planet, and dealt with the investigation personally.

Having sent the messages Cornelius waits for his train to get to prime. (edited)

Messages sent, the train arrives at Prime around midday

Cornelius smiles as he looks around the platform for Skylar . He wonders if she's changed after joining the army.

Skylar is wearing her off duty clothing right now, taking a day of leave to meet with you. You recognize her instantly though her once long hair is short now, the standard military cut

Cornelius' face lights up on seeing her. He pushes his way over and wraps her in his arms. Cornelius is a little flushed afterword. "It's good to see you Skylar, you look great. The military life treating you well?"

“So far. Hasn’t been long enough to complain” she replies

"I'm glad. Been doing a bit of adventuring myself, Spent more time in space the last few months than the rest of my life combined."

"Not that I'm unhappy to see you, but what brings you all the way out here?"

"You're right, I was glad to find you, but as far as I could tell none of the others ever made it over. I was hoping you might know what happened to them."

“The evacuation was pretty rushed. Anyone left behind is probably in corporate custody by now”

"Well as bad as that is it's better than in a worm's gut. Lets not waste the rest of your time off though. Let me get something off the train, and we can be on our way." Cornelius walks toward the train. He returns with a bike, and wearing one of the sons of corn jackets(It is not his bike but the one commissioned for Regulus that he didn't want.) "Well what do you think? Is it too much?"

“It will come in handy for leave. Thank you”

"You're welcome, there's a jacket and some gear in the trunk if you want it. I'll let you drive, it is your bike, and you know the area better than I do. Sorry about the name, children of the corn sounded more cult or horror movie than hovercycle gang."

"where are we going, exactly? driving where?"

"I am not sure it's your leave, what would you normally do on leave?"

"This is the first leave I've had since enlistment, the whole base is being constructed from scratch"

"Ok is there anything you wanted to do or go somewhere. We can catch up anywhere. If you can't think of anything here we could go somewhere else if you don't mind the train trip. There is a club, and fight league I've been wanting to check out in Vapormills."

"I only have the day Cornelius. You'll have to do that stuff on your own. I really lost track of the old group after the evacuation. I'm sorry I can't be of more help"

"Please don't worry over it you've been enough help confirming they weren't with you. I'm happy just seeing that you're settling in ok. I thought your leave was for two days though. Either way, I'm sure you've got better things to do with the rare time off than hang out with an old man." (edited)

“Building a base from scratch. It’s taking the full attention of almost everyone”

"I can imagine. Maybe once immigration from other planets is steady you'll get more leave. Well, I want you to keep the bike and stay in touch. Not sure if you can give out your contact info being active duty, but you should be able to take mine. Don't hesitate to message me or come by if you need help or get the time. I'll try to swing by the club once it's built maybe I'll see you there?" Cornelius extends his hand to Skylar. (edited)

“I’ll see you there once it’s done”

Cornelius waves, and leaves Skylar. Muttering to himself as he goes back to the train terminal. "I should buy a personal car at this point." As he waits for the next train to Vapormills he gets out his compad. (edited)

Cornelius boards the train. During the ride to Vapormills he sketches ideas for the Captain Fate costume, and thinks about the combine, other intelligence agencies, the Lady, Ghost Regulus, and how they could fit into the comics.

Arriving at vapormills you find yourself in the grand station at the edge of town. There is a mix of humans and taros on the platform waiting to head to prime or central

Cornelius makes his way into the town. He looks around for things to visit later as he walks towards where he'll stay . (edited)

(I think it’s going to be vastly easier to tell me what you’re loooking for than for me to list off every single thing that’s here)

(I was looking for tourist and entertainment attractions. The fighting league and club eventually. If nothing else the concierge at my hotel should be able to direct me right? Also a fancy hotel?)

(Fancy hotel and my original statement stands, thats still a lot of stuff, so help me narrow it down)

Cornelius takes in the architecture, people, and general ambiance of Vapormills as he walks towards the municipal building containing Executor Dorlin's office.

The executor herself is preparing for meetings , and is unable to meet, but there are many staffers around

Cornelius will meet with one of more agreeable looking staffers then.

He sits behind a desk, putting his papers away as he sees you approach

"Hello sir, my name is Cornelius Hardt, and I was hoping that I could ask you a few questions today."

"I was trying to learn about Taros culture, and was wondering if you knew of any areas that I should visit while in Vapormills."

“What are you interested in seeing? Vapormills is a vast city. We could be here all day”

"Well, I had some specific places in mind, but I wanted to see what kinds of entertainment there was to be had in Vapormills. Is there any place that you recommend for me to go?"

"If you're looking for sport, we have football now (soccer) and there are a number of fighting bars throughout the city"

"Yes that would be of interest to me as I also wanted to learn more your fighting league. Do you think this could work for a possible shared cultural project? It seems to be important here, the Piggen might have something similar, and it would probably appeal to the Greenbriar segment of the UNW as well."

"humans have fought here before. Seung Whitaker is the all-league champion as it stands"

"Interesting have any Piggen fought in your league before? How televised are your league fights?"

"The fights are televised in Taros city states. We have never been approached by humans. Piggen have never expressed any interest in doing so"

"Would you be interested in expanding to the rest of the UNW comm network? I think there would be an audience for it."

"You'd need to talk to the league officials, not a government functionary like me. This is all a private arrangement among the fighting clubs in the city states"

"Ah I understand, I was just trying to get a feel for it I'll ask them any further questions about that then. Speaking about integrated projects I was trying to help establish a multi planet intelligence organization. Before going off planet I thought it would be necessary to include our on planet allies, so I came to you first. As far as intelligence assets or organizations what do the Taros have in place that you could tell me about?"

"I will absolutely not divulge government secrets and intelligence assets to a civilian. You should speak with Central, or petition the next unity council if you're trying to get involved in that"

"Thank you for the advice I will do that then. I was hoping to learn what I could even if only generalities before going off planet to interact with the Moon Collective or making a report to Central, but I will go through official channels first then."

8:47 AM

"Back to the cultural side of things then, I noticed Human, and Taros, but do you have many Piggen tourists or visitors?"

"Not really. They refuse to modernize. If they come here it will by by foot or by pack animal. It is a journey of weeks, and they often feel overwhelmed here"

"Interesting, well hopefully I can draw at least some of them in with the idea of the fighting league, where would I need to go to talk to the officials?"

"The league's main office is in Carinhold, but you might be able to get a line out to them from here. The Vapormills branch office is two floors down"

"Thank you, I'm not sure if you're aware, but most of human culture that the colonies had access to was lost in the scream. Where would you recommend I go if I was interested in introducing Taros music, fashion, art, food, drink etc to them, or at least experiencing them for myself?"

"You'll get a bit of everything at the silicon, Id' check there"

"Thank you, I was interested in checking that out already, I will make sure not to miss it. This has been a very informative meeting thank you for your time, and advice." Cornelius waves goodbye and goes downstairs to the league branch office.

9:14 AM

While walking downstairs Cornelius sends a quick message to Governor Whitaker, and Cyrus. (edited)

The messages sent, Cornelius heads into the office. (edited)

There is a consultant behind the desk in the austere office. Recorded fights in the past play on the several monitors around the room

"Hello, my name is Cornelius Hardt. I was interested in learning more about the Taros Fighting League."

"I was trying to find out more details about the league before I brought up the ideas of using it to get the Piggen to integrate more or expanding the televised coverage to the entire UNW rather than just the Taros city states at the next unity meeting." (edited)

"The league has several circuits with different weight classes and cybernetic builds. Almost anything is legal aside from actual weapons"

"I am currently in the talks of making a robot based league, something that might be flashier, possibly used as a way to show off units before their commercial roll out. Would the League be interested in possible exhibition matches once we are more established?"

"The attraction of the league is flesh and blood over technological prowess. It takes us back to our roots as a fighting people, not reliant on very much technology. I think accepting a partnership like this would go against what we try to stand for"

"I can understand the sentiment, but wouldn't it be that much more impressive when your fighters defeated a robot in the ring? The ultimate triumph of flesh and blood over machine. I saw it as more an occasional arranged match, as opposed to integrating into your league completely. This might also help with the inclusion of Piggen as I believe many of them hold similar beliefs. I am a little confused at the inclusion of cybernetic builds if that is the league's mindset though."

"It's not something we can easily explain to a human. This decision would need to be made by someone higher up, but I'll let you speak with them. It's worth having the idea heard"

"Thank you, I would appreciate the chance to speak with them, as I would appreciate any advice they could give me going forward with my own league. It seemed like the Taros Fighting League is more about bouts, and the fights than building individual fighters and story arcs though correct?" (The TFL is closer to the UFC or boxing than Professional wrestling right?) (edited)

(Closer to UFC)

11:23 AM

"this is a professional organization. The only stories are the ones the fighters make for themselves"

"Thank you, that's why I came, to learn about the league and the fighting tradition that you have built here. While the two leagues will have their differences, I hope they will not be insurmountable. Who should I talk to before I bring the idea to the Piggen, or the Unity council though?"

"The unity council has an open floor at the end of major discussion. I'd try to find backers there. We would need to see serious investment in the idea before we restructure the whole league"

"While I believe I have some backing already, at least in the UNW. I will take your advice and see if I can find more support there after checking with my sponsors." (edited)

11:35 AM

"On a more personal note do you know who I could see about training? I am interested in fighting in the league, but I want to be more sure of my skills first."

"As much as I hate to say it, Carinhold has the best gym for learning how to fight. They have some virtual simulators there"

"Thank you for the tip, I was told that is where the headquarters for the league is as well, maybe I can check into that once I've had the chance to gain some sponsors and run the idea of expanding the league past the higher ups in the UNW."

He makes an approving gesture, but doesn't really have anything to add

Cornelius leaves the office. (What time would it be? I am not sure if heading to the club now or trying to catch trains to Delphos would make more sense.)

(that would be about a day, or a bit more, it would be mid afternoon right now

(So I couldn't do that and make the time for meeting up with Mord? When would I need to leave to get back in time for his mission? I still have a day and a half until then right?

(we'd like to kick this off IRL by tomorrow at the absolute latest. If you want to go on the mission id say lets move into that, since the two of them are ready)

(Ok, I tried to post I was ready, but didn't see anyone post after Mord. It's seems awesome I'm ready to go for that.)

12:21 PM

(Where would I need to go to meet up with him? I might have to make a quick stop in central to get my gear first.) (edited)

(I made a mission channel)

Cornelius gets on the next train to central.

He messages Loremaster Wescott on the way back.

12:37 PM

Loremaster Wescott, I hope this message finds you well.  I am sorry to say that I might have to wait to begin my training.  I have been accepted on an important diplomatic mission for the UNW.  I will try to meet with you upon my return.  I did find one of my old friends on planet, the rest though I am unsure of.  I hope the meeting goes well.  I have an idea for how the Knights could reenter the scene, but I would rather discuss that with you in person hopefully after I have proved myself as an initiate.

Mr. Cornelius, I apologize for the wait, yesterday was a much needed day off. If you could come down to the police station sometime today 
we can discuss some options.

(edited)

Cornelius also sends a messge to Haliey as he will not be able to meet her and to report the progress on the fight league. (edited)

I would speak with Arimoto, he is more involved with the military than I am. My main focus is criminal and terrorist activity on Gudrun, though that may change later.

5:53 PM

(I feel bad, we keep playing hot potato with your pc it feels like)

(that's alright I was trying to get the domestic agencies of the Taros, UNW colonies, and Piggen scouts to work together, I figured that might be a good first step. Before showing up at the Unity meeting. I might talk to des about it he is going on the same mission as I am. @opscomm ) (edited)

( @Rodger Landon (Corn) )

Good Day Mr. Hardt, I am messaging you on basis for a meeting about certain topics that were brought up during the meeting. Perhaps we can schedule a conversation some time in the early future.

(Sorry about posting afte your I just figured I would give Cass and you a way to wrap things up in character instead of asking a bunch of ooc questions about where we would dock or which thread to jump to.) @Nekosmash

(it doesnt matter where youre docking really, you're home, adventure is over)

1

The prisoners are taken to holding, for questioning once they've been vetted and settled. The greyhounds move off, taking their dead with them. You're left on Trivedi cloud, to your own devices.

Cornelius turns to the assembled lawyers and corp sec. "Come with me, we will see about processing you a citizens and trying to rescue your families."

1:32 PM

(^as*)

The lawyers are being taken into custody, and are unable to come with you. You've advised Marcion they're available for questioning. Although they've been willing to cooperate, they are still an enemy asset.

(Who took them into custody, wouldn't I go with them, and wouldn't the corp sec need to be questioned also?)

(marshals, and no, why would you? youre not under arrest, and theyre also part of the prisoners)

(I had to give a debrief about the mission to Marcion anyway right, and I want to make sure he asks about my son and the other missing people.)

1:50 PM

(I could have told that to the marshals taking them into custody though.)

"This is a marshal matter for now. When the interrogation is to begin you'll be contacted"

Having thanked the marshala given his report, compad information and the prisoners and the Equipment to them Cornelius calls a transport back to his place at Central for him and the bikes, then a train to Rebirth to meet up with the Knights and hopefully Loremaster Wescott. (Did the chapel used to have another name in the handouts?) (edited)

(No, its part of the Rebirth buildings handout)

1

(That's what I meant, I just looked it up forgot to change it before hitting enter.)

(It never had any other name)

1

2:07 PM

Wescott is in his familiar place in the temple, polishing a statue of the goddess when you arrive. Services must have ended a while ago, but the cloying scent of lavender and sea salt hangs heavily in the air.

Cornelius approaches Wescott. "Sorry I missed services for a few days, but I have returned, and I have news about Rawhani."

"Our mission was mostly successful, plus we captured some lawyers and corpsec who worked for the council, I hope we will learn something about the missing when they are questioned. Was there any progress towards reopening recruitment?"

"Into the knights? a little. We have a few from Agaspur who have joined us."

2:23 PM

"Mechanics, mostly. no one combat trained"

"I had hoped for my own, but that's great news Hopefully the ranks will only grow."

"For your own?" he says, patiently, not looking up from cleaning the base of the statue

"Isn't that what we talked about when we first met, and you told me about the missing? I thought you were going to suggest it to Kaleb during your meeting? I apologize if I misunderstood you."

(you're talking about your friends that are missing?)

1

2:36 PM

(I need nouns haha)

(Yes, his friends and son, and potentially others. Cornelius assumes the Council or whoever would grab anyone they could rather than just them specifically. His friends and son are who he asked about so far though yes.) (edited)

(I think Lore master Wescott said something like anyone not a citizen already was probably grabbed by the corps.) (edited)

“None of your friends are here. We called in a few favors to make sureL

"Thank you for that. I only found one myself. I thought you were considering training me as a knight? Was this not the case?"

(I think I misunderstood what you wanted clarified, I meant my friends son and others were the missing not for recruitment for that I meant Cornelius. Am I wrong in thinking he said he would bring up my recruitment to kaleb at the meeting of the leaders in a week? Before I left to the NMC talks?)

(This is provably one of the things that got lost in all the exposition) “Kaleb wasn’t opposed to the idea but we have no spare mechs at the moment. The few suits we have are too precious and already have veteran pilots”

1

4:57 PM

(If you do join a faction though, that’s going to mean sticking with it for at least a while.)

(That was why I wanted to find one that fit me and the character. I think I will stay with the knights at least until Rawhani is freed, unless they give me a reason to leave. I have to pass their training first though I think that was the condition Wescott gave.) (edited)

(Yeah. Which he said you can undergo now)

1

"I still don't know how to use powered armor or even an exo-suit really, it's been a worry of mine even before the space battles, maybe I could start there." (edited)

“It’s a thought. I’ll have to have another talk with Kaleb”

"Thank you , that's all I can ask, is there anything I should do in the meantime?"

"Train your body. That is the best advice i can give a new recruit"

7:57 AM

"Even with servo muscles and fiber bundle assistance, the rigors of fighting in power armor are demanding on the body"

"Well I was planning on looking into the Taros fight league in Carinhold, the best trainers and fighters are there I'm told. I think I might have some other ideas as well. Do the knights have any feelings or knowledge about psychics, magic or cyberware?"

"We have knowledge, but none we would share with an initiate"

Cornelius nods as a smile breaks out on his face. "Another reason I hope to prove myself worthy of learning the knowledge, and maybe one day even adding to it. I'll attempt to learn what I can on my own then. I'll return when you contact me or see you at the next service." (edited)

"Do you need any help cleaning? I don't know if it is a task more appropriate for a Loremaster or an initiate, as you are cleaning statues of Auguana." (What does the Goddess look like?)

"It brings me peace. Cleaning helps me focus, and think, and it makes me feel like there's some measure of control over my surroundings." The statue is made from stone, but painted with very bright colors, to mimic it being made from coral. The top half is a beautiful maiden, who like a parody of a mermaid, lower half ends in eight squid like tentacles. runnels of water gently flow down the status, from cleverly hidden fountain taps near the eyes, collected into a blessed brass bowl of water that runs around the base of the statue

"Would it be alright if I took a scan of the statues? I wish to have an image of Aguana for myself, and I hoped use the dimensions to see if I could get ones made of real coral for you when Terazinho opens its borders to the public."

He shrugs "as long as its not going to hurt it" (it wont)

"I don't think it will. It hasn't when I have scanned things in the past, but I will be careful and make sure to give the task the reverence it deserves." Cornelius takes out his survey scanner, and methodically scans each statue making sure to capture as many of the intricacies in the stonework as he can.

Once he is finished with the scans Cornelius returns to Loremaster Wescott. "I take my leave now. I will inform you of anything I learn when we meet again." Cornelius bows. "May the sands ever blind and confuse your enemies."

Wescott says the same back, and you exit the chapel to see a message from Marcion on your compad, the prisoners processed, and ready for questioning

Cornelius smiles, finally some good news out of the blasted thing. He then heads to the station to catch a train back To central to meet up with Marcion.

(we can jump into his thread, he tagged you and we left it there until we were all ready)

1

(sure I'll wait for one of you two to start.)

(not sure what channels youre following, but here's the info resulting from the lawyer grab) 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

(Thank you, regarding that do you know if I would be listening in on the interrogation, present, or waiting to talk to Marcion afterwards, I didn't want to ask in his thread since the interrogation is still happening, and I wanted to let him do it, but try not to get me or my questions forgotten with all the important information being revealed.) @opscomm

(I thought you were there, since youd been adding to it already)

(Thank you, I just wanted to be sure. I'll wait and ask anything further once Marion is finished if he doesn't ask it.)

(if you want to ask something jump in, everyone else is)

1

Cornelius leaves the interrogation room. Waving down one of the Marshals once outside.

“Yes?” He asks, stepping over, rifle held low

"Could you tell me where I could go to speak with acting director Wind please?"

he points down the long interrogation hallway, to where the Taros woman is gettiing a dog ready for walk

Cornelius runs down the hallway to the woman and dog slowing once they notice him still catching his breath trying not to double over from the effort. "Um, excuse me huff Acting Director Wind?" huff

She says nothing, but you have her attention, you can feel her analyzing gaze upon you

Cornelius stands up straighter and tries to smile having caught his second wind. "My name is Cornelius Hardt. I think we met briefly at the Provost's charity event."

"We did. I remember, it was a short meeting"

"Yes, well I wanted to discuss some things with you, do you mind if I join you on your run?"

She shrugs, and laces up Ace. ":ets go then"

"Alright, thank you for your time. You have a good looking dog what's their name?"

"Ace. He's Marcion's but we bonded when I was sick. So what did you want to talk about?"

"Well I wanted to help coordinate things or pass on ideas for intelligence, they might be better received coming from you, and I had planned to join the next batch of Marshal cadets. So I might be delayed acting on them. I wasn't sure the regular procedure for joining, but I didn't want any special treatment, plus it might help me get back in fighting trim."

"Well, we're always looking for new deputies. Desmond will want to administer the oath"

"I will inquire with him then. As far as coordinating I thought you might have more luck with the Taros city states than I did. They would not acknowledge existence of intelligence agencies to a civilian. By the strength of the denial I'm pretty sure there is something there though."

"Well of course there is, and they were right to keep their mouths shut. We are coordinating with them already"

"That's a relief, what about the Piggen? I know they might not have an intelligence agency, but they have desert scouts, and are in a better position to monitor the helldivers."

"There are no more helldivers" she says, continuing to run

10:36 AM

"Whatever scraps are left no longer have the will to act collectively"

"Well, you are better informed than me." Cornelius laughs "One of you probably wrote the reports I read. I'll move onto things not covered there then. I was thinking of investigating the houses, or the fight league and seeing what rumors or criminal element might be around there. We don't want anyone to try and take advantage of the state of rebuilding some of the cities are in."

"You can certainly take a look, we handled the houses in egons who were not compliant. The military confiscated their assets (Dax's first mission) . You'd be better served elsewhere than Gudrun. This planet is fairly well within our grasp"

"Alright, I have a couple ideas that are in that vein. I was thinking of talking to President Kincaid about contacting the Greystar Combine. I met one of their agents, and know Kensh who works with them now."

"What about?" she stops her run

"To coordinate information, possibly improve our relationship to be one of open exchange instead purely mercantile. They are a powerful ally, and their reach is far, it would probably be a bad idea to anger them lightly."

"Its also a bad idea to trust them at all. We can;t guarantee where the information we give them ends up going, or what they're using it for"

"That is why I was hoping for a possible transparency or coordination in operations. If someone was involved with them they could potentially see how they operated, or what kind of missions they were deployed for. So far all I know of them is through Kensh and his interactions in being sent to save the children as related to us by General Quince, them building our space station, and launching operations against our mutual enemies in the Council of Corporations and the Remnant."

12:48 PM

"Maybe the President has a reason to trust them? She seemed willing to make important deals with them."

"Out of need, not out of desire" Wind growls

"Well maybe that could change? Pardon me if I'm overstepping, I thought perhaps our allies in the Red Sangha, and the NMC would be worth investigating as well, to understand them better as well as to make sure they haven't been infiltrated or turned against us. To this end I wanted to suggest sending out the lawyers possibly. Learning the laws of newly encountered groups or polities seems to be something that could be helpful if we want to operate in them." Cornelius sighs. "The last idea I am more hesitant to bring up as I believe it involves you personally. The only mention of an intelligence body besides the Combine I found easily was the Daughters of Lotus. Them leaving suddenly in service of an unknown patron could be a problem. I'm not sure if you trust them, but it seemed like looking into their location and recent actions might interest you either way."

"My reasons for looking into them are my own. The patron isn't unknown, but it is not public"

"As long as they are being looked into. I won't press you on it. Thank you for discussing this with me. I will speak to the Provost about getting trained and sworn in. Do you know any good trainers, or someone who would teach me Taros? I figure learning the languages used in the UNW and some conditioning seem like a good place to start if I can."

"I'd spend some time at the virtual trainers in Carinhold if you're trying to get a crash course. The program won't make fun of you for wrong answers at least"

3:02 PM

(it wont boost the time needed to learn it though, I'm firm on it needing a month)

"I didn't realize they had virtual trainers for things besides fighting, thank you for the information. I'll have to look into that when I go to watch the fights."

"There's a good one on tonight. I've been hoping someone takes down Rhys"

"Were you ever in the League, you seem like a capable fighter? Also do you know if it's too late to get tickets? Is scalping illegal in the UNW? I don't want to get arrested before I'm sworn in."

"It's not. I wasn't, and you should still be able to get tickets"

"Hah, thank you I'll look into the when the fight is and getting tickets. I might have to catch a train. (I wasn't sure what time it was now.) You mentioned Rhys, but do you know who the challenger is? I've been in space or off world for a while."

"Iron Duchess. A human. I'm interested to see how the two shape up since the current all-city champion is a human too"

"Is the fight league co-ed? I was told they were divided by skill, and level of cyber ware, and no weapons was the only real rule, but not much more than that."

"go see a fight for yourself. I don't really have the time to explain the nuance of Taros fighting league rules to you"

"Sorry, I'm just excited the only thing close I've seen is the odd sporting event or execution on Rawhani, besides recordings. I'll go look into it, thank you for the chat, and the run. It was nice to formally meet you and Ace."

She waves, and she and Ace move off at a full sprint, heading for the park

Cornelius moves toward the train station as he pulls out his datapad to message Desmond and buy a ticket for the fight.

THere's an express ticket for 100 credits that should have you there within half an hour of the fight

Cornelius charges the ticket for the train on reflex before trying to look into transport and directions to the arena.

(we can just say you got there, i dont think roleplaying every taxi ride is compelling storytelling hah)

1

8:19 AM

The arena is getting busy, tonight's fight is promising to be one for the history books no matter the outcome

8:20 AM

you're through the crowd before long, inside the arena, where scenes from former impressive fights are projected onto the holodome above

Cornelius looks for anyone on the Unity council or Seung among the fights being projected then makes his way in still marveling at the spectacle.

Seung's fight is in prominent display, as the first human all-city champion

8:29 AM

He fights valiantly, throwing a devastating counterpunch against a man who has one hand crackling with lighting, and another with caged fire

Cornelius seriously rethinks his intentions of entering the league himself, and wonders at the Taros' definition of weapons, but ultimately shrugs and becomes more excited to watch the fight, and maybe meet the fighters afterward.

He looks around for a ticket booth, or someone to help him with getting one of the ringside seats. Failing that someone who looks important and well dressed enough and in a group like they would have a private box.

Ringside tickets are 500 credits, and there are only a few of them left, most seem to not want to spend so much on an event with only a handful of actual ranked fights

Cornelius buys six tickets then looks around for fight fans trying to offer the tickets, and concessions in exchange for them telling him the basics about the league and the fighters involved in the matches tonight.

(I intentionally didnt say much because I dont want to invent 60000 NPC's we'll never use again)

(That's ok, I was really just worrying about the title fighters The Iron Dutchess and Rhys, and finding out whether the league had co-ed fights or not possibly how common fire hands and such are. I figured giving some random fight goers upgraded seats and free food and drink could get that much, plus then Cornelius wouldn't have to sit alone.)

You get some information from some takers. The rules on cybernetics are loose and have actually never been published anywhere, but truly outrageous weapons, or things that turn fists into actual different weapons, are generally frowned upon- the fights are intended to be painful, but non lethal, outside of accidents, of course. Fighters are free to choose their own matches, close fights draw the best crowds, if that happens to be between a male and female, no one gives it another thought.

Cornelius thanks them , orders what they want and something for himself, then turns to watch for the fighters' entrances.

An exhibition match is first, and in this rare instance weapons have been agreed to ahead of time. With safety gear, two fighters each with matched clubs and shields lay into one another

Cornelius tries to remember the safety gear for later, but is mainly caught up in watching the fight and listening to his new friends and the announcers comment on the match.

The match ends with an electric charge stunning one of the fighters, and he is swiftly disarmed. The two bats, now in hands of his attacker, perform a brutal cross-cut, knocking him out

"Well that was exciting I didn't expect to see a fight with weapons."

Cornelius keeps his eyes on the ring not wanting to miss part of the next fight.

(It's going to be Iron duchess's fight, I just need that thread to catch up)

(Should I just watch it there so you don't have to repost the play by play?)

(sure, that';s fine)

1

the arena erupts into cheers as the Iron Duchess rallies, knocking Rhys out definitatively

Cornelius still standing and cheering. "Hah, she did it, had to knock her down twice, but she did it!" Cornelius looks back at the fight. "Look she's even crying tears of joy."

the two seem to be speaking to one another on the mat but youre far too far away to hear it

Cornelius turns to the other fighting fans. "That was a good fight to watch for my first right? With the shock hands, and how it went back and forth, I think I even heard some bones break, they have doctors or cutmen for things like that right? I think that's the right term?"

No problem Cornelius!

Cornelius looks down when his compad vibrates, then reads the message. "Ha, more good news this night keeps getting better and better. Maybe I'll press my luck and try to meet the Duchess when she comes out after they check her for injuries, and she has a chance to cool down. That's usual right the champ basking in their fans adoration after the win? Do you think she would sign our ticket stubs? Maybe you guys should come with me so I don't embarrass myself."

"Maybe. we can stand outside near the exit doors and wait?" one of them suggests

"Sounds good, probably need time to get sorted before they would be ready to sign anything anyway." Cornelius follows the others to wait by the exit doors.

You wait in the cold for about ten minutes. Snow starts to fall and finally the exterior door opens. The cheers fade when a small taros woman exits the building and proceeds to head down the street. Decidedly, not the iron duchess

Cornelius hardly notices the cold having been through worse on desert nights, but is distracted with trying to catch the snow until the door opens. He squints looking at Marina a bit before turning back to the snow. (Would Marina have been shown in the holo vid fights projected on the roof earlier?)

(No. She wasn’t ever really famous)

6:42 PM

(Just a local scrapper)

6:42 PM

“Guess the duchess isn’t coming out. Ah well”

"Well it was a rough fight. I hope they're both ok, she wasn't even the one that went out on a stretcher. Maybe we could get it signed at another fight or catch her during training or something. Do you know the night life around here? I was thinking of hitting up Silicone in Vapermills, but that might be a bit far to get to this late they do seem like an awake all night crowd though."

"We won't make it there by morning, but there'spleny to do here, depending on what you want to get into"

"I'll follow your lead then, what is something exciting that you could only do in Carinhold?"

"You've pretty much seen it. We have the best fighting complexes "

"Are those open all night? Maybe it would be worth trying to see what happened to the Duchess or getting into an amateur fight? Haven't thrown a punch myself in a while, but I can still take one ... I think."

(you wouldnt know whats actually going on inside right now though)

"Ah, you're probably right, she's probably waiting for the crowd to die down. Would you mind telling me more about these other fighting complexes though?"

7:41 PM

"Maybe there is something more on the amateur level with less flaming fists?"

"Yeah if you wanna throw fists theres plenty who arent augmented"

"All right where could we go? Do you know of anywhere this is literally my first time in Carinhold."

"Right here, lets see if there are any training cages open"

Cornelius follows the others inside eager to potentially catch a glimpse of one of the fighters or their coaches on the way to the cages.

There are other fights still going on tonight. None of them are willing to talk, focused on their own exhibition matches. A free cage at the very end of the row is open, and a couple of your companions begin stretching out

Cornelius takes off and folds his suit jacket before trying to stretch out and do a little shadow boxing.

One of your companions steps into the ring, and you see a faint energy haze around his knuckles, before he thinks better of it and clicks the field off

"Thanks, I'm trying to think of this as a learning experience feel free to point out any errors in my stance."

"Lets get on with it then" he says, entering the cage, and signaling for one of your new friends to shut it behind you, once inside

Cornelius enters the cage and adopts a defensive stance.

(initiative)

(8 I remembered alert this time.)

(8 for me too but alert, so you)

(Is there anything to represent being defensive or reactive? I was thinking of trying to punch him when he tries to hit me.)

1:18 PM

(Total defense +2 Ac I think)

(I mean, you can ready your action but it wouldnt be any different than the turn order we're already in)

1:18 PM

(total defense is your whole action though)

(That's ok I'll do that so I think my AC is 12 now?)

(yes)

1:20 PM

Seeing you adopting a defensive posture, your friend moves forward, activating the slight energy field around his fist, throwing a punch. He seems to have no qualms about hitting you. (21/4)

His defensive stance not helping Cornelius drops it and tries to get in a punch which is easily avoided (4/2 do miss crit fumbles matter because it was one)

(no I don't like to use them, missing is already enough)

"Well I'm glad we aren't in a formal fight, I said I haven't thrown a punch in a while right?" Cornelius laughs. (When would doing a snap attack make sense If I wanted to do one to try to throw another quick desperate punch using my next turn action would that be possible? I know you get a -4 but going from +3 to -1 doesn't seem like it will change much.)

2:10 PM

(Sorry if doing weird combat maneuver stuff is slowing things down, but I thought I would do some of it here to get an idea how it might work for a more desperate fight.)

(I'm not going to deviate from the book for combat. We haven't before, and there is enough flexibility with the various maneuvers where I dont think we need to futz with it any further)

2:45 PM

(I'll roll for them when i get back to my phone/ a computer)

(Thanks for the clarification. I was trying to understand how the things in the book worked, and make use of them. I think I didn't understand snap attack correctly, it might be more useful in a fight with more combatants in play or if I had gone second right?)

(correct)

3:00 PM

(It only works if you have not acted yet in a round)

3:01 PM

(all you;d be doing is letting him hit you and then attacking with a worse modifier)

3:01 PM

He swings again, connecting solidly with your gut (22/2)

Cornelius not having much luck tries to push him down, but only succeds in falling prone himself when his opponent steps back the wind knocked out of him. (I know you don't give crit fumbles, but I got another one so I did it myself. Also this time I was trying to start one of the moving other characters to knock him prone but crit fumbled again so.) (edited)

he has no qualms following up the mis-maneuver,( 12/2) "Sure you want to keep going?"

Cornelius pushes himself up then stands carefully, still smiling (Fighting withdrawl stand up) "Thanks for not taking it easy on me. I'd rather take some hits from you here than get really messed up in a match or bar brawl. I have to get at least one hit on you before I give up on the fight." Cornelius' smile breaks for a second. "If you do knock me out, please don't leave me here in the cage. You can bill my account for a hotel or something. Hopefully I'll land a hit before then though."

(So we are going to keep going?)

4:40 PM

“Alright. Well, you wanted to land a hit. Let’s get it”

(Ok, I wasn't sure if he was going to hit me after I got up.)

4:42 PM

(10,2)

He staggers backwards a thin trail of blood from the side of his mouth

4:56 PM

“You bought me VIP tickets and food. I’m not going to knock you out. That’s a bad friend”

"The way things were going earlier I thought I might knock myself out. Are you alright? looks like I got in a lucky hit."

"You ready to get a drink at a fancy hotel bar now we've knocked each other around a bit?"

“Sure. Let’s do that.” He wipes the blood away

"I'll let you guys pick as thanks for keeping me company and the training, don't worry I'm buying." (I didn't ask before since it wasn't important, but I assume most of the people are Taros right?)

(Exclusively )

9:23 PM

“No no. You’ve done enough tonight. Let us do something back so we don’t feel guilty”

"All right, I'll try not to take advantage of your generosity. Are you just fans, or do you have any interest in fighting yourselves, you gave me a few good punches at least." Cornelius puts his suit jacket back on an follows the rest as he talks with them.

'Eh I tried a long time ago, I jut couldn't take a punch"

"Better to find out early. At least you can enjoy watching, less punches that way. Do any of you ever bet on the fights?"

"Not really, don't have that kind of money to lose"

"I don't think I'm quite used to it myself. One of the benefits of the 'adventuring lifestyle' I guess. The missions can be a bit dangerous though. Good pay, but high turnover. Just makes enjoying downtime more important. Let's get those drinks." Cornelius smiles then playfully jabs his new friend's shoulder.

“By turnover you mean dying. I get it.”

"Well I haven't had anyone die under my command, but a few on missions with me, and some friends besides. I guess it was bound to happen working in hot zones during war though. What do you all do to make ends meet, or when you're not watching fights?"

“Factory work mostly. A few of us farm. That’s almost like factory work with extra steps

"Do you enjoy the work? If you're looking for a change of pace or an interesting side job I might have an idea how we could help each other."

“Offer first. Old boss is always a dick until you meet the new one”

"Well I was in talks to start a fight league of my own, and I thought people familiar with the scene could help me setting it up. There will probably be a few differences from the Taros league. I thought starting small to prove the concept then scaling up would be easier than trying to do everything at once." (edited)

“You formalize the rules and I think you’d find plenty of interested parties

"It's a work in progress. The important thing is to keep the matches interesting."

9:41 PM

“I was thinking of expanding on the use of personalities for fighters like the Iron Duchess or punching up their civilian identities. Maybe having alternate ways to win so the combatants wouldn't have to beat each other bloody every fight.”

“Like I said. Get me a proposal. I don’t know what I’m agreeing to right now”

9:42 PM

He wastes no time pushing all of you into the first bar you come to

Cornelius lets himself get pushed inside. "Sure, just trying to give you an idea, I'll hammer out the details. The other proposal might make more sense after a few drinks... How do you feel about gravbikes?"

“Changing topics are we?” He laughs and tries to keep up. “I own one actually. Kind of a junker but I gets me around

"Interesting, how would you and your friends feel about joining a little social club? I've been offering membership to those I consider friends. You don't have to do much just meet up every so often and help out if it's needed by a fellow member or the community. I have some jackets back home or could pay to get one made up. I was thinking of looking into Taros fashion for fight league costumes anyway. I could spring for a bike or repairs if anyone wants or needs it. I might surprise members with other little gifts or get togethers occasionally."

“What kind of help? Is it risky?”

"So far no, I thought of it more of a neighborhood watch if anything. Maybe once I get more established myself we might have a club or ship."

“Fighting evildoers and whatnot?”

"I guess that could be in order, I like your attitude."

(He doesn’t know what the responsibilities are. He wants an actual like code or what he’s supposed to do)

6:49 AM

(Put something out there. Theory crafting just leaves dead ideas behind)

Cornelius rubs his chin and takes a sip of his drink. "Yes, I like that fighting evildoers as we are able. Protecting those unable to protect themselves, and helping to uplift those in need."

6:58 AM

"And doing it in style, having fun and looking good are important. If you don't make doing the right thing an attractive option evil triumphs. Brining levity while we help people in these times surrounded by dangers will raise the morale of the average UNW citizen. There are too many evil fearmongers like the Remnant, The Still lady and the TFL and Malak, trying to scare and divide us!"

7:04 AM

"When circumstances become so dire the common people must take a stand and strive for something better, and we will be there to help and inspire them!"

Cornelius looks around and realizes he's standing, and more than just the other five are looking at him. "Sorry about that. I just hate it when people try to bully their way to power. I want to do something about it if I can. Maybe I can't stop it all, but I could help keep the UNW, or at least Gundrun safe."

“Well, I’m in. Whatever that means”

"That's good to hear. I just thought groups made of locals would best know how to help through being an example, good works like community service , mentoring, and maybe keep people safe and from feeling desperate and falling in with bad elements like the Taros First League or the Still lady cult."

“It’s a good thought. The four of us are in”

" I appreciate it, I hope the good we do will convince others to join us and do the same."

(So add 4 more to your count. I know you have a goal to get a certain number)

(I think that puts it to 7/12.)

“I was thinking about the rules for the arena. It should be kept as simple as possible. No use of unapproved weapons, armor, gear, powers or cyber ware. To this end, all interested in participating will be subjected to medical examinations and scans by experts in various fields before and after a match. No outside assistance. No trying to kill or maim your opponent. If someone is using an assumed identity no unauthorized revealing of it. No unauthorized fighting. No fighting with non-combatants including staff, fans or other civilians. No continuing to fight after the result of a match has been decided. When you appear as a fighting personality especially for public appearances, you must remain consistent with the character.” “As far as the rules for winning, pinning the opponent for a count of 3. Knocking your opponent out of the arena, or keeping them from the ring for 10 seconds. Knocking out or getting your opponent to submit.” “For exhibition matches, most of the rules would be the same. While I don’t imagine someone will try to win by pinning a robot, or Mammoth it would make the match even more spectacular so I see no reason not to leave that potential win condition in. The ring rules would only apply when one is used.” “Though the rules may change from match to match to with the variance of competitors and arenas, as long as both sides are informed, I don’t think it will be a problem.” “As to your parts or jobs. I thought trainers or talent and location scouts, possibly fan and community interaction since you’d all have some experience there. I was told some of the smaller fights got their starts in bars, I have someone I could ask about that.” “There might be some changes once I speak to Stonetusk and the Piggen, President Kincaid, Barron, some lawyers, or Psike Tv, but I’ve been given a good amount of wiggle room, so it’s mainly finding what works.”

(Alright. I can work with this. Thanks for finally getting something down. We don’t need to get into the specifics of approved gear right now but this is concrete enough for some plans)

1

7:30 AM

(This is exactly the kind of thing I wanted you to do man. Worked out great)

( thanks I wasn't sure if I needed a mechanical role chart like with the soccer, doing rules like this wasn't too hard. I'm just glad you got through the block.)

"Well now that business and the long speeches are out of the way, we can get back to drinking! Are there any local brews I should try?"

They go into a long list of things you absolutely need to have or your life won’t be complete. You lose comprehension after a few hours

Cornelius agrees, trying to drink everything suggested, but only making a small dent in the list."You guys are the best, I love you guys. We're gonna try everything. We should open our own restaurant ship." The last thing Cornelius remembers clearly is laughing at the name Cornucopia.

You wake up the following morning in a hotel room, your friends are various states of drunkenly dozing around you. (You can name them if you like. They’re henchmen now)

(So 4 of them all together, I know one has that zap mesh and a glass jaw tried to be a fighter now works in a factory, and a beat up hovercycle. At least one or two women, and they work in factories or on farms? I think at one point you talked about the culture or at least naming conventions of Taros in Vapormills, and Carinhold (I think you said Russian and English?) what is it again? also is that stuff correct?)

(I mean, its in the writeup, so I'd say its correct)

(Could you tell me where it is please? I didn't see it under Gundrun.)

(It isn't its on the actual writeup for Taros under rules and books channel)

(Thanks I knew I saw it somewhere. It says the russo slavic part, for Vapormills and Golgis but the others are a cosmopolitan blend. I'll post the names once I come up with them.)

(I'll add them to the big NPC handout once you do)

(Abel Kovacks (one that Corn sparred with) Sabrina Desroches Beatriz Protz Markus Barbarossa (Do those seem good?))

(Works for me)

Nekosmash 4/29/2019 9:48 AM

(Ninja, I got so caught up in naming them I didn't notice the waking up bit lol.) Cornelius looks around the hotel room for a coffee pot or phone, then tries to get up without waking anyone.

After brewing a pot of coffee he looks to see if the Iron Duchess has a social media presence or ties to a specific gym.

She has a growing social media presence. Many are not eager to embrace her, some seeing her has another element of unwelcome human influence. For others, she has just not won enough big fights to gain the following many others have

Cornelius checks the time when the last post was posted. Then looks for a similar presence for Rhys.

The pages for Rhys seem to have been pulled down during the night. There are mentions to the page, and comments, but the links are broken

12:30 PM

(think like on facebook whne someone deletes their profile, the links dont go anywhere anymore)

Cornelius looks for mentions of affiliates or a trainer for Rhyss, then makes sure to subscribe to the Duchess' feed so if a post is made he will be notified. He then looks into breweries, tailors, a print shop, hover cycle dealers, cheap real estate, permits needed to open a bar/fight ring, scheduling a meeting with President Kincaid, and transport to the space capital while waiting for the others to wake up or a post on the Duchess' social media. (edited)

(which of those ten things would you like to do first)

(Looking into mentions of people associated with Rhys. Sorry I know it was all smashed together.)

Rhys had a coaching staff but their pages have likewise been pulled down

12:54 PM

it looks to have all been done overnight, people were interacting with the pages up to and during the fight, even shortly after the conclusion.

Cornelius looks for footage of her old fights or the fight last night to see if he can see a trainer there.

The coaching staff is not well pictured, as they were not the focus of the bouts

Cornelius tries to find out about the Duchess' training staff. Hoping for them to be more open about their team in trying to promote her.

Mentions of the fight last night are not mentioned by the staff pages, though many, many posts from fans are there. They have not officially commented.

Next into scheduling an appointment to meet with President Kincaid.

Her office would like to know the reason for the meeting.

To discuss the progress of Unity Council and UNW endeavors, and potential grants of citizenship.

(what exactly are you trying to find out)

(I wanted to vouch for the lawyers, learn how to contact the combine, and what the president's stance on them is. I figured I could give an update on the community service and fight ring thing, I haven't talked to the Piggen yet, but I didn't want to make the lawyers wait, since they're stuck in prison. I might have to until Marcion and co. get back after checking their intel, but I thought I would try.)

The president's office reviews your concerns and directs you to speak to Franz instead, as they're in custody on Gudrun.

1:28 PM

There is a notice attached that unauthorized contact with the combine is a criminal offense

Cornelius frowns at his datapad. "I'll make sure to bring it up with Franz." He says to himself with a sigh. Cornelius then checks if the hotel has room service. Goes and sticks his head outside to check the room number, and orders breakfast for everyone either from the hotel or a nearby restaurant. (edited)

(I know you and Kensh have something going, and that private communication is okay, I don't want to stop crossplay, but officially, and this has been repeated a bunch, the UNW does not trust Greystar. THey've purchased information from Greystar before when there was no alternatives or when it was critically needed, but Greystar has their own agenda, and the UNW is not sure who else is being helped. Anything disclosed to them is considered compromised, since they can't be sure where it is going afterwards) (edited)

(That's ok, it was one reason why I was trying to keep contact with Kensh in character, and get permission before trying to do anything with the Combine. Looking into them seems like something that would have to be with higher level government since their whole thing is having spies everywhere, and we know we have some kind of mole. Plus only talking to Kensh in character makes it easier to rp.)

(you can talk to Kensh in character anytime you want)

1:46 PM

(that is different than contacting the combine in an official capacity) (edited)

(Oh, Ok I wasn't sure if the messages would be censored or something going into a suspect polity and being sent to a known fugitive murder, combine agent etc. That seems like it would just be extra work on your part to redact things though lol. Also I wanted to see about working with them in an official capacity, we can't really find out their motives if we keep them at arm's length forever.)

1:51 PM

(That might be another thing that has to wait until I'm sworn in as a marshal or whatever the process will be though.)

(For sake of game ease, and because its not that big of a deal you and Kensh can talk as often as you want to. Communicating in an official capacity is what you were warned against)

1:55 PM

(I can't really give you hard and fast guidelines, just like in real life. Use your best judgement is as much as I can give you)

(Ok, I will do that. I'll probably wait to message Kensh until I've made more progress with the sons and the bar. I just thought I would wait to leave until everyone woke up since even if I have to go back to central I can do some things there like outfit them.)

2:08 PM

(I thought I could check into those things while they slept. Getting drunk with people then waking them up when they're sleeping it off didn't seem like a good way to endear myself to them.)

They begin waking up, about the time your request to meet with the president is declined. "Why the sour face?" Abel asks

"Just dealing with some red tape."

2:14 PM

"So, you still on board? I don't want you guys to regret leaving your jobs or Carinhold down the line."

"Still on board" he says, rubbing his temples

2:15 PM

"You seem like you know what you're doing"

"Thanks, well if we're going to be kick butt bounty hunting altruists we've gotta get you guys outfitted right? Do you know anyone here? If not I'll set you up with the people I know in Central while I talk to the Governor."

2:23 PM

"We might be on the road a bit I'll give you guys a chance to pack and get your bike while I look into things here. Before you go though do you know anything about Rhys or her support team all of their web pages got pulled down, and the Duchess hasn't posted anything since before the fight seems a little weird."

Cornelius, this is Kensh. It’s been a while, how’ve you been? I looked up the names you gave me on Greystars system and got one result. Issac Centrich was an agent, killed two years ago on a mission to investigate the Still Lady’s cult. No news about your son unfortunately.

Cornelius checks his compad expecting a ping from one of the Duchess' accounts, but is surprised when he sees Kensh's message and starts typing a reply right away.

I hope the search goes well for you, I’ll keep my eyes open for any more mention of the names you gave. The children were rescued safely, and I’m looking to make more moves against the Remnant. Glad to hear about the Sons expanding, I still wear the jacket I got from you. I’ll try to stay in touch.

Cornelius puts his compad away smiling. "Well the good news keeps coming, that was an old friend. Let me go through the plan with you, see what you think." (edited)

8:45 PM

I was going to talk to the Central governor about some people stuck in immigration, and we could see who would join us there, then make our way to Delphos and talk to Stonetusk and the Piggen for a few final recruits. Once the Son's numbers are up some we can see which areas need our help the most get everyone outfitted and get to work maybe check some bounties. I'm not sure where you want to get your equipment or cycles, but we'll be going through all of the different markets and I have a little bit of extra personal equipment, so it shouldn't be a problem."

“I’d rather get something you’re familiar with. We should go to central where your connections are”

"Sure, that suits me, I know a couple salesmen that will be happy to see me. Maybe I'll talk to the big names this time get some custom stuff made. Plus I can introduce you guys to the Baron. Have you been to Central before?"

None of them have

"Well you're in for a treat, and that's part of why I'm doing this, I imagine a lot of people haven't been to Central and the Green briar settlements or Delphos or come to the Taros city states if they don't live or work there. Oh and we can check into that new club in prime I think it's finished, maybe I can introduce you to Skylar. She's kind of in the Sons that's later though. First I'll get you set up with bikes, jackets and some basic equipment at least, the custom gear might take longer, but you can get fitted when we pass through."

"Sorry, I keep getting ahead of myself. First we need to catch the train to central."

Cornelius books tickets for himself and the Taros to central.

THe trip across continent takes a day. you arrive early in the evening to a busy station in central

Cornelius messages ahead to Franzs' office. (Would this count as a downtime day for learning Taros?)

(yeah_

(3/30 I think then, I'll change it on char sheet when I get a chance.)

7:11 AM

(Is it ok if the Taros are teaching me? I thought it would make sense now that were traveling together.)

(I dont think it matters, the amount of progress is not changed for it though)

(That's ok it's just for rp bonding with my new Taros buddies. Maybe Corn's pronunciation is slightly better. lol.)

Franz's office is ready to meet when you get into town.

Cornelius turns to Sabrina."So how did it work for you all? Were you sworn in when the Unity Council was formed?"

"What do you mean?"

"Well I was sworn in as a UNW citizen when I was brought here from Rawhani. Cornelius shows them his citozen Id on his compad. "I was just wondering if it was similar for you."

"We were just given them. It was our planet first"

"Oh, I was just curious. I know the city states were there first." "I'm going to go in now, maybe you all can look for bounties or jobs you think we should do while I talk to Governor Franz."

Cornelius enters the office, and checks in for his appointment with Governor Franz after pointing the Taros towards the info consoles and helpdesk.

The guards let you inside after a brief frisk for weapons, and youre set down in front of his desk, formerly kincaids

Cornelius waits for Franz, looking around the office a little.

Franz gestures for you to sit, and pushes some of the endless stacks of papers aside. "Hello Mr. Hardt. I've read a bit about you. I've got a bunch of meetings today so lets cut to it shall we? What can I do for you?"

"Alright I'll be direct then. I wanted to vouch for the lawyers and their escort recently taken into custody on Rawhani. I hoped they could be released, and allowed to practice law. I was also hoping to be allowed to make contact with the Greystar Combine, I understand if that will have to wait until I'm officially sworn in as a Marshal and Provost O' Shea, and Director Delgato have returned. I thought I would tell you so far progress on the integration project is going well so far. I have recruited some Taros, and plan to visit the Piggen after making recruitment attempts here."

"There will be no official contact with the Combine. I see you've been warned by the office of the president against this as well. It makes no difference who your employer is. You're all bound by UNW policy. As far as your lawyers. We're waiting now to see if their intelligence is valid, and actionable. If we have word from the intelligence agency that operations have been successful, and the lawyers were correct, we can re-visit the issue. For now, they're to remain in custody"

"Interacting with the Piggen and recruiting people from various areas is ok, correct? I did bring it up with President Kincaid at a Unity Meeting."

"Yes. Many other groups have done just that"

12:22 PM

(I mean, this puts me in a huge bind, because i either openly contradict myself or i exclude someone from participating in the larger game)

12:22 PM

(This has 0 relevance as far as needing to be resolved right now)

(Sorry I thought the personal correspondence was ok. I didn't realize I was doing it secretly.)

12:24 PM

(Can I just have not mentioned it? I don't want to throw a wrench in the works unnecessarily.)

(yeah we can nix it)

12:25 PM

"Unless you had any further business I think that was everything on your meeting request"

"Yes, thank you for meeting with me. I hope to continue working together to further the goals of the UNW, and help others as you have helped me." (edited)

12:42 PM

Cornelius leaves Franz's office and meets up with the Taros. "Did you find anything? We can go get you guys some equipment now."

"We did. Marshal work actually. There's a bounty out on a Taros serial killed named Oilheart"

"Sounds serious, what do you know about them?"

"He trapped seven Taros in barrels of caustic solution, poured oil on top, and burned them alive. He fled to the southlands as authoritries started closing in, and they lost the trail. A few taros look to be getting involved too

"That's horrible, I think we should work with the others hunting him. Even if we don't personally get the bounty, bringing him to justice is more important. We should still get outfitted first, having bikes armor and some kind of weapons against such a vicious person seems like a good idea." (edited)

"Whatever you think we need to have. We'll learn to use it"

"Good, please tell me if a particular subject, or style of fighting interests you. Knowing how to use different equipment is good, but if you are interested in something specific we can work with that too. We will all take non lethal weapons and restraints in addition to whatever you choose plus the bikes for everyone."

2:55 PM

"Do you have any way to contact the others hunting him?, think they have gear already?"

"We're going to meet on the platform tomorrow and all deploy together. It's up to them to provide for themselves" Abel says

"Well, let's head out." (I don't know if you wanted to rp the equipment stuff since I haven't met pops before, and I wasn't sure if anyone important was manning the Trivedi shop.) (edited)

(if you want to meet martin for the bikes you can idk what difference it makes how you get them, but thats up to you. PEople do it both ways, if you want to make a list we can do that too)

(I'll probably just make a list and get off the rack stuff for now, I can do the fitting stuff later once I've had a chance to visit the Piggen, and scientists etc. I will post an itemized list. Would they like any specific equipment, and the heavy machine gun and Rocket launcher I got from the perimeter base were just regular tl3 not tl4 right?)

(Everything is TL 4....

3:18 PM

(unless otherwise stated)

1

(I might have asked this, but are there stats for handcuffs? or zipties?)

(You have and there isn't as far as I know)

(Sorry, Do the Taros besides abel have any cyberware?)

5 shear rifle 3000 1 sniper rifle 400 4 laser pistols 800 4 flop rifles 2000 4 stun batons 320 Combat field uniforms and Icarus harnesses 9000x 4 36000 2 Medium advanced weapon 120 1 small advanced weapon 40 1 Large advanced weapon 80 Commserver 1000 4 Compads 400 24 power cell type a 240 12 Lazarus Patches 360 4 Tl4 Backpacks 200 4 Hovercycles 5000 (Battery Reserve 5000 Cargo space 0 Smugglers hold 1000 Extra passanger 5000 Total Bike cost 11000 x4 = 44000) 4 tl4 binocs 800 2 Storage unit 1000 10 shots lift 500 2 Pressure tent 200 150 days rations 750 5 Navcomp 1500 4 Survival Kit 240 5 Climbing Harness 250 Total cost 94200

4:45 PM

(If you give me the strengths of the characters I can do their specific loadouts.)

(They all have a 14 dex for being taros. They all have punch, stab, and shoot 0)

4:47 PM

(All other skills are -1. All stats but dex 0. Hp is max for a lvl 1 taros fighter so 6)

4:47 PM

(And no on cyberware)

(so is that a 10 on strength for encumbrance I think the exact number matters.)

(Yes)

1

(do npcs get a combat bonus, or are they +1 for dex based and +0 for other?)

(Just a +1 ab for now)

1

(are black slabs illegal or otherwise unavailable in the UNW?)

(Yes black market hacking tools are still illegal)

4:58 PM

(If you choose to buck that it’s up to you)

(Would it be a thing that required a mission or contact at least though? Also would buying a tl4 binocular as a night vision scope for the sniper rifle work?)

(It depends what you do and yes

(Ok I will hold off on the illegal slab, and add a binocular for that so the total goes up to 94400 credits.)

5:07 PM

(are the icarus harness and the combat field uniform bought and accounted for encumbrance individually, or do I just need to buy the icarus harness?)

(They’re separate. The harness doesn’t give you combat armor)

1

(30 credits for 60 rounds I almost forgot to buy ammo for the sniper rifle.)

(Ok, it was a lot of math, but I did it between them and me I think we're carrying everything we'll need, also I'm bringing the tl4 rope and a meta tool in lieu of handcuffs. since you can cut and re melt it to different sizes I thought it would be a workable replacement I will post the loadouts after this.)

6:27 PM

Abel/Markus (Stun) Readied Compad 0 Flop rifle 2 Stun baton 1 Icarus harness 1 Combat field uniform 1 Toatal readied enc 5 Stowed Shear rifle 2 Laser pistol 1 6 type a power cells 2 Nav comp 1 Climbing Harness 1 Binoculars 1 3 Lazarus patches 1 Survival kit 1 Total 10 Sabrina (sniper) Readied Compad 0 Icarus harness 1 Combat field uniform 1 Sniper rifle 2 Sniper ammo 60 1 Total 5 Stowed 6 type a power cells 2 Nav comp 1 Climbing Harness 1 Survival kit 1 3 Lazarus patches 1 Flop rifle 2 Stun baton 1 Laser pistol 1 Total 10 Beatriz (Spotter) Readied Compad 0 Icarus harness 1 Combat field uniform 1 Binoculars 1 Shear rifle 2 Total 5 Stowed 3 type a power cells 1 Survival kit 1 Nav comp 1 Climbing Harness 1 Com server 3 Stun baton 1 Flop Rifle 2 Total 10 (edited)

6:28 PM

(forgot to include 0 enc tl4 backpacks)

(alright, ready to proceed?)

Nekosmash 4/30/2019 7:16 PM

(Yes.)

7:19 PM

Cornelius smiles looking over the others with their new gear.

"Oilheart doesn't stand a chance."

(would it be possible to get hibernation drugs?)

(No.

1

"Maybe we should stay at the cloud? That way we'll be ready for the meet."

"Or did you mean the train platform?"

"I meant the space platform. We're deploying via lifter"

7:05 AM

(I'm waiting for the other PC to get ready)

1

@Seung Whitaker (Severus/Marina) is waiting on the platform, when Cornelius and the Sons of Corn make their way aboard, those with grav bikes walking them on their 'hover' setting.

(We all have grav bikes now I think. I made theirs identical to mine so I wouldn't miss something in the upgrades. Plus I have the list of the gear. Is Marina the only person meeting us on the platform?) (edited)

(yes)

"Hello, I guess you're the one meeting us. My name is Cornelius Hardt, and these are my compatriots the Sons of Corn, Abel, Sabrina, Beatriz, and Markus. Did you want to charter a ship or Gravflyer or two so we could cover a little more ground? We have grav bikes, but it might be a bit of a ride covering the southlands at 100 kilometers per hour."

“I don’t have money for that unless you’re footing the bill. I joined up to catch the bastard out there so I’ll just ride with one of yours I’m not worried about comfort. Just as long as we get him.”

"I can foot the bill, do you need anything as far as equipment? If we're working together I don't want you going in unprepared."

11:12 AM

"I even have an extra bike you could borrow if you want. It doesn't have an extended battery like ours, but it's a little faster, and stealthier."

“I have enough gear, and I suppose I could attempt to use the bike. I don’t have much luck with vehicles as of late. Do you have any clues to where he is so we’re not just driving in circles?”

"I just heard the southlands." Cornelius looks to Sabrina. "It might be worth investigating any settlements or failed ones that way. It's pretty wild down there from what I've read, he's probably in a cave, or somewhere he can hide from the authorities and wild life. Besides that I'm not too sure. Maybe we should ask the authorities that were chasing him before this?"

“That’s up to you go ask. If they’re looking to have someone else find them I doubt they have any idea.” (edited)

"I'm fine working off of my survival skills. There can only be so many bolt holes down there, we don't want to wait too long with a serial killer. I'll see about chartering those grav flyers though."

11:29 AM

"Sabrina, can you and Markus go get that extra bike from the garage please?" Cornelius gives them his address where the recon cycle is, then looks around for someone to help him with chartering the Grav flyers.

(I wasn't sure what are those places marked with the blue squares on the map?)

(nothing that is relevant to the game anymore)

12:06 PM

(just can't get rid of them)

(Is chartering the vehicles something we need to rp, or would we be able to get that easily enough? Also how much would they cost to hire by the day or week?)

(there aren;'t any available. Part of why he wasn't caught is they dont have the resources to divert to the hunt)

Cornelius brings up the general map of the southlands, and the information posted in the bounty while he waits for the cycle to be brought. He tries to narrow down possible places Oilheart could be living by access to edible plants and water, safety from animals and the elements, and proximity to his last known location, or the direction he was thought to have gone. Last he looks for any failed outposts or settlements known to be in the southlands.

The only known settlement was the abandoned encampment Abigail Harcrow and her band of outcasts inhabited. They no longer reside there.

Cornelius tries to find as specific a location for the camp as possible to measure the distance from their current location, and from where Oilheart was last seen in the City States.

1:10 PM

(Is that the camp south of Rebirth on the map?)

(It says abandoned camp on the map)

(Ok, I think I'm looking at the right one, what is the scale of the map supposed to be it's about 7 hexes from Rebirth how far is that in Kilometers?)

(1 hex is 200km)

(So about 14 hours of travel at max speed for the bikes? 11.2 for the recon cycle maybe 18 hrs assuming 50 mph, so probably 2 days with breaks, and accounting for terrain and me having the highest pilot at a 0 I think. Would recharging the recon cycle be a problem? it doesn't have the 240 hours of charge like the others it's only 6 hours at a time, would it just be easier to have Marina or one of the others ride as a passenger or would it be possible to just buy a bunch of B batteries? I thought it said you needed to do something specific to change or recharge them?)

(the lander can bring you right into any starting hex you want. I don't know what you're measuring beyond that. )

1:27 PM

(as far as recharging you can buy more cells, usually in the built areas itself it doesnt matter because theres power infrastructure around

1:27 PM

(I don't know what you're trying to tell me with the passengers thing)

(Sorry, I was going by distance to Rebirth. I'll just add some B batteries I already have a toolkit. I was just wondering if using the extra seat I got as a fitting on the bikes would have been easier, but if I can just change out the battery it shouldn't be too much of a problem coming back or driving around as long as whoever drives it stays close. All of the bikes are the same as the fittings I have written down on the sheet with a cargo space, smugglers compartment, extra seat so they can have a passenger, and the extended battery. The Recon cycle has different fittings though.)

1:35 PM

"We should be able to make it back and look around if the lander drops us off at the Abandoned Harcrow camp."

(15 type B cells for 1500 seems like enough.)

1:47 PM

(Sorry if I'm bogging stuff down, I just didn't want to offer a bike then leave Marina stranded in the jungle, or seem like I was trying to fudge something for my own benefit.)

(youre fine, that is a fair price)

1

“Sounds fine with me.”

Cornelius addresses the Sons, and Marina "We should stay close, or in pairs. Beatriz has a com server (300 km range) we can use so it will be harder for Oilheart to listen into our comms. You all have a Navcomp and survival kit in case you do get split up or lost. Each of those contains a distress beacon that transmits for 50 kilometers, and information about what to expect in the woods and gear to help you survive there until you're found. As far as capture we all have stun weapons, and I brought some easy-weld rope, and a meta tool. That said if you are unable to capture alive, I'd rather you come back than him." Cornelius turns to Marina. "If you'd like to borrow my nav comp and survival kit for the mission, I'll be sticking pretty close to the other Sons, and read up on the area myself anyway. You probably won't be too far off with that battery needing changing every 6 hours, but I don't want to restrict you."

“I’ll be fine. I don’t need anything from you. I’ll make sure to stick close to the rest.”

"I didn't mean to impose, but thought I would offer. I'm sure your capable of determining what gear you need. Did any of you hear about Oilheart before looking into the bounty?"

None of your companions have. A light turns from red to green announcing the lander is ready for hoarding

7:01 PM

Boarding

Marina walks up to the lander boarding it.

Cornelius makes sure the bikes are loaded and secured tipping the porter 100 credits then boards.

The pilot is standing in the crew deck. "Heading right down to that abandoned campsite then? Flight plan wasn't clear. trying to figure out my approach"

"How stealthy is the lander will a few hundred kilometers keep us from being seen?"

He shrugs "Not stealthy. It's a cargo lander. It's not supposed to be"

"Will they be able to see us enter the atmosphere, or detect us with scanners from that far away?"

"If your cargo bay opens in flight, and our friend was ok staying with the lander for a little while. I thought we could open the Cargo bay look down at the drop site, then jump down while the Lander made a more obvious landing at the camp site , to try and catch them by surprise? We'll be fine we have Icarus Harnesses and Sabrina has a sniper rifle we could try to spot them with."

"You're just assuming he's out there at that camp. You realize there is plenty of planet to just expect him to be there because it's the first thing you saw on the map that wasn't blank. If anything we might as well start there but, maybe we should start near open ground and nearer to the cities. I doubt he took the rail all the way to your human cities. That is unless they have free food on trains for serial killers now." (edited)

"Well it seems like a good place to eliminate since it would potentially have shelter, and water. If you think we should check closer to the central body of water or the one near Carinhold, or deeper into the southlands we could do that. Did you bring any rations? or camping supplies?"

"Then let's check it out, but after I think we should check closer to the Taros cities."

"Ok, if we don't find him searching here and the area around we will double back to Rebirth, then take the train to Atrovia, or Carinhold and move southward from there after a resupply. With the six of us we have enough rations for about 25 days, and two pressure tents. If we're careful to make sure we leave enough food to get us back to Rebirth we should be ok. Do you think it's worth trying to drop in? If not we can just land close and hope he bunkers up instead of running off or that we can track and out pace him."

"If we do return to the city states I thought it might be worth inquiring about the location any potential oil, or flammable chemical deposits in the southlands. Since he seems to like burning people, we should also be careful of incendiary traps. How does that plan sound to you?"

"If anything I would think we should just land outside and separate to look for him. Otherwise I think it might work Human."

Cornelius sighs. "Your right, I guess we'll save the jumping for when we have a bit more experience. Spotting through the cargo bay if possible, or scanning if the captain will permit me could still be a good idea. Once we clear the campsite we can split into smaller groups. Though I'm reluctant to leave my friends alone with a killer on the loose, I'll trust them to judge their own competency. I think I have a plan for efficiently covering grids. I thought I'd give you a chance to suggest something or hold off until we check the camp. I know I have a tendency to run off at the mouth which is only exacerbated when I meet someone new or am trying to think through a plan. Speaking of which I don't think I ever got your name."

"My name is Orya Human, and you can do your plans all you want. I just want to find this man."

"I want the same, good to meet you Orya. How about we land at the camp, secure it then decide what to do from there?"

"Let's go then."

"You heard the plan captain, to the camp!"

The lander wobbles as the couplers separate, and it drops through the atmosphere. It is loud, and not stealthy. Atmospheric friction begins to burn at the outside, rocking the craft gently. Sabrina gets very ill, but rallies. Below, the dilapidated camp once used by the outcasts of Abigail Harcrow come into view. The fog machines causing the spectral ochre colored fog are running, somehow.

"That smoke doesn't look good, but it probably means someone is down there. Orya do you have a vac suit?"

“It’s just fog. It’s odd to see it hang like that but I don’t see a reason to fear it. Unless of course you don’t watch your back.”

"Well just the same be careful it could be a trap, and possibly flammable or caustic it's Oilheart. Captain is there anywhere we can land outside the fog but still inside or close to the base? I don't want you or us to land in a trap if we can avoid it."

"Base is clear of it, You can rope down, we'll have to winch the bikes down one by one though"

Cornelius turns to Sabrina. "Are you feeling up to covering our descent and unloading the bikes?"

"Lets get on with it" she nods

"If you're taking the Recon Bike Orya you should be able to see through the fog, will you be ok on point?"

“I suppose I can take the front again I’ve never rode one of these.”

Cornelius nods "We'll take it slow, maybe we can turn whatever is making that fog off before we leave the base." He then goes to make sure the others ropes are secure then tries to look over the base with his binoculars while waiting for his turn to descend. (edited)

One by one, everyone disembarks, into the middle of the camp. Rusting thin sheet metal buildings, ten in total, and a very large building with sturdier materials make up the camp, surrounded by a wooden palisade wall. Corrugated metal panels have been pressed into the mud to make crude walkways

Cornelius looks around to see if any of the buildings shows signs of recent use.

(notice wis)

(8)

The main building, the more reinforced of them, looks to have been inhabited recently. A few of the windows are boarded up, and the door's chains have been broken

"We should probably look at the main building first, but keep your head on a swivel." Cornelius approaches the building for the main door and checks it for trip wires or some kind of fire trap,

There are a string of cans tied into chimes, meant to rattle if the door is opened more than the hairs width it is open

“Looks like someone may live here after all. Probally would be best we try to find another entrance unless you can cut that.”

Cornelius takes the metatool out of his pack. Then responds in a hushed tone. "Maybe I could with this or I have a tool kit in the bike. We should also go around to cover the back in case I make noise taking down the chimes." (edited)

"Abel take Markus and make sure he doesn't jump out a window or something." Cornelius gives them some time to get into position then tries to take down the cans quietly. (Int/fix?)

(yes)

(8)

The chimes , a few of them enough to squeeze through at least, are cut, caught and dragged outside before they hit the floot

2:09 PM

floor

"Switch to flop rifles and stun batons, they'll probably be easier to use indoors anyway." Cornelius squeezes in through the door after waiting for Sabrina and Beatriz to change weapons.

Cornelius looks around for Oilheart or things he might have left behind like trophies or a journal to make sure it's him that is at the site.

A message arrives from Arimoto. "Welcome to the Marshals - You may not see me around so much but in any case we can always use more hands. Remember to report any significant discoveries to the intelligence branch, knowing is half the battle."

(Would the message still go through if we have our compads tied to a private server? I want to respond to it appropriately.)

(FIIK, Arimoto is as good with confidential information as the average US politician so IC and OOC I couldn't tell you.)

1

(You can reply to it. Stop worrying about the minor stuff. I’ll tell you if there’s a complication)

1

Cornelius quickly looks at his compad. Word gets out fast he thinks before typing a quick response and putting it away then returning to the search

(should I roll something like a notice, or a lead to help direct the other's search?)

(I’m not answering because I’m working. I’ll be back soon)

1

The bottom floor of the hall is empty but for a wooden seat on a raised platform left behind. A winding metal staircase behind it goes to a second floor

7:17 PM

The building is quiet, the only sound is the wind

"That's odd from the outside this building looked lived in, we should investigate the second floor then check the other buildings." Cornelius calls the other group on his compad. "How are things looking out there you see anyone moving around?" (edited)

“Nothing so far”

"Ok, keep the entrances covered and stay safe." Cornelius looks around and notices Orya didn't follow. Be careful with your shots Orya's out there too, and we still don't have conformation this is Oilheart. We don't want to assault some old hermit or something. Ok, we're going up to the second floor." Cornelius nervously listens for something besides the wind as he ascends the metal staircase.

(Now lets get that notice check)

(11)

There is a thin wire at the top of the stairs, that catches the light just enough to notice it

Cornelius looks past it to see if there is a trap beyond. (Like it's a distraction trip wire with a pressure plate for when you step over. I know that might be a little much but he's paranoid. Plus it is what he would do.) Then looking for anything that might be connected to the wire or if there is anything beyond worth disarming it for. (edited)

A claymore mine is lodged just beyond the doorframe, hard to spot on the way up without following the wire

Cornelius tells Sabrina and Beatriz to go back down the stairs and take cover. He then examines the mine and trip wire to determine if he can safely disarm them with his current knowledge and tools.

the device can be stepped over, now that you know where the tripwire is, but its unclear if it will disarm or detonate if the wire is cut

Cornelius steps over it after looking around again. Should be safer to disarm from the other side he thinks. Then he examines the door.

The doorfame is not anything special, just a normal doorframe, leading up to the second level of this building. The upstairs itself looks to have been divided into a number of small personal bedrooms. It has a strange resemblance to a ships quarters

10:51 AM

One of the deck plates is stamped Loaves and Fishes , the name of the original colony ship that broke apart in orbit.

Cornelius looks for something like a diary or computer. Being careful of tripwires or any kind of traps that would hurt him, start a fire or destroy evidence. Even to the kind of thing like a firetrap in a false bottomed drawer or when a drawer is opened incorrectly. (I figure it makes sense since most of his spycraft skills would be from experience or movies and pulp stuff he's read at this point?)

10:57 AM

(Essentially evidence that this is Oilheart or captives, possibly interesting stuff about the ship or people here before?) (edited)

The camp was inhabited previously, and its been known those living here had moved on. There are no computers or personal effects from them left behind. you do find evidence of a cooking fire in the read bedroom, where the roof is somewhat peeled back and opened to the sky. There is a rough sleeping rug made from lope hide, and some discarded ration containers stacked as neatly as possible in the corner. There is some evidence in the firepit that they were gradually being burned

Cornelius examines what's left of the rations expecting the worst.

(lets get a heal/int)

(5 I'm not sure if using the scanner matters.)

The bones are humanoid like, but so worn by age, and...teeth marks? that it is hard to tell what exactly they might have been for sure

"Probably sentient, I'll add it to the list of this man's crimes." Cornelius whispers to his scanner as it records copies of the scene making sure to get a good shot of the ship's name plate, and the humanoid remains. Cornelius sighs and moves back to the door. "I'm going to attempt to disarm this mine trap, hopefully if something goes wrong Orya and the Sons, or one of you will be able to bring Oilheart in." Then makes a calls the Suns. "I'm going to disarm this mine I don't want you or anyone stumbling on this base to get hit by it, make sure you're clear, if things do go well help Orya bring in Oilheart, and continue our mission of mentoring people and cleaning up the UNW, to that end I give you access to my accounts, home and equipment." He sends the video message to the Marshals and his lawyer. Then after waiting for a response from the Suns goes to disarm the mine. @Selnath @Chris Fury (Desmond) @lictor @opscomm

11:31 AM

(Sorry if that was a little much, also from the side the bearings won't shoot out of if he can.)

outside, your second team sees a shadowy blur running across the open camp space

11:47 AM

"He's over here! get out here quick!"

"Everyone engage carefully! I'm coming, but don't wait for me we need to catch this cannibal. Watch out for fire or following him into a trap we know that's how he operates." Cornelius carefully steps over the tripwire then goes down the stairs to meet up with the rest, and help catch and secure Oilheart.

Outside, Oilheart sees three grav bikes moving in from the east, their riders all holding crackling stun rifles. Another group of 4, on foot, emerge from the north, from the main building. They are likewise armed with stun weapons. Both groups are 60m from him (edited)

Oilheart jogs away the group on foot. “How dare you come after me!” He yells. “You’ll never get me!”

(we can consider this initiative i suppose, i should have done that first, we can roll it now)

(7 for Cornelius I wasn't sure how the Sons initiative would work.)

(they go when you go)

1

(3)

(sons first, then Oilheart)

(I think 60m is in range of flop rifles right? Just roll d20 +1 4 times?)

(+2, for dex and AB. but yes, four times)

2:22 PM

(forgot they're taros, so they have a 14 in it anyway)

(2, I thought they had 0 skill in. all combat and 14 Dex for +1 ) (edited)

(0 shoot, but they have a +1 attack bonus, and 14 dex for a +1 there too)

1

(Do you know the damage for flop rifles? im on my phone right now.)

(2d6)

(Thanks 13,6 13,7 19,6 and 3, 10 poor Markus rolled a 1)

(Yeah the 19 downs him.)

(I guess that's why Beatriz is the spotter. lol)

Oilheart takes the flop shot hard falling to the ground body rigid face being buried into the ground.

(there is stabilization automatically at 0, since its non lethal, but Oilheart is knocked out)

(Yeah took it as the stun locking muscles so just basically falling to the ground unable to move before passing out.)

The other sons look to corn for what to do next

Cornelius still catching his breath motions the Suns forward to the prone Oilheart and the bike team. "Phew good job everyone, didn't even give me a chance to get a shot off. Now lets get them secured quickly there could be victims needing medical attention. Abel, Markus, did you see where he came from we should check there for living victims and accomplices first once we've coordinated with the bike team. Speaking of coordinating anyone seen Orya, did she ever key into the com server? " (edited)

"she didn't. but he came out of the building over there" and one of the barracks closest to the main keep is pointed out

"Well damn, she could be hurt in there. You four check it out. I'll meet with the bike team then follow, and be careful. You have lazarus patches but there could be traps or more cannibals if you see something you can't disarm surround the buildings and shoot anyone that doesnt surrender immiadetly. I'd rather go home with no deaths today, I hope she's ok." Cornelius scrambles to get the rope out and cut. Fusing it once Oilheart is bound. Then preparing to welcome the coming Taros. "I hope they are more friendly than you were." He says smiling at the unconscious Oilheart. (edited)

They sweep the area, finding no evidence of Orya, or other victims

Cornelius waves down the Taros on the bikes while trying to drag the bound Oilheart back to the camp. (edited)

(should I roll an exert?)

(No he’s not able to resist being knocked out and all)

7:49 AM

The bikes head over to your location, engines idling when they arrive

7:54 AM

(You brought the only group here. I thought they were the other half of your team. Olya was the only person you had to meet

(I think I got confused since there were 4 on foot and 3 on bikes, including me the Sons is only 5 total right? not counting Cass, Kensh, and Skylar as they aren't here.)

(I missed that entirely. Oh well)

1

"Help me secure Oilheart to Abel's bike then I can ride back with Sabrina to pickup mine and the one we were lending Orya. I didn't want to do this so soon, but maybe we should just call the Marshals to take us out by air, maybe look around for Orya on the way back? I wish she'd taken one of the survival kits. What do you all think?"

“Let’s get our quarry home first. That’s what we came to do. Air extraction seems best”

"I'm glad you agree, let me call up HQ." Cornelius calls up dispatch for a grav flyer to be sent.

"Dispatch, this is Marshal Hardt. I'm currently at the abandoned Harcrow base with my team and prisoner Oilheart. We need extraction and prisoner transport, anti personnel device found at location, please advise." (edited)

“Leave the device. Lifter service is inbound with central police. Twenty minutes”

6:26 PM

The reply is curt, laced with static from orbit

"Thank you dispatch, we also had a ride along wander off on us, Orya a Taros, her information might be on the bounty hunter registry, but she kept to herself despite my natural charm. We'll be taking the prisoner in so I thought I would pass it on." (edited)

Cornelius takes out his data pad and sends a message to deputy/acting director Wind.

Hello Acting Director Wind, I just wanted to say thank you for the information about the fight and suggestion to talk to Desmond.  I  should be bringing in my first official bounty as a Marshal soon.  As he is Oilheart a Taros Serial killer, I wondered if I could coordinate with Taros intelligence on this one?  We've had a couple recent high profile escapes from our prison, and it seems like they might want to take a crack at him and have a hand in helping put him away after killing and eating at least 7 Taros alive, I don't know if you saw the scene video I sent.

The messages are not answered. (Vapor mills no longer has its own intelligence service. None of the cities do anymore. It’s all Cis now )

7:42 PM

The lifter comes in twenty minutes later as promised with a handful more police aboard who take custody of the prisoner. “This ones wanted back west especially. Got something special planned for them”

"I'll be glad to turn over custody, those filed teeth were freaking me out especially after what I found at the scene. I'll give you a copy of the scene tape, the area is covered with a claymore right now. I wouldn't bring it up for myself, but my team basically took him down without my help, do you know who I talk to about the body receipt and bounty on this monster? I don't want to be unable to reward their hard work."

“It will be sent to you upon prisoner processing.” One of the officers hands you a laminated paper ticket showing you brought in the bounty as a backup. After docking with the platform you’re all permitted to disembark before the lander heads back down to carinhold with its prisoner aboard

8:12 PM

(Back to own thread marina. 6xp, 10,000 credits for everyone)

Cornelius and the Suns head back and store their bikes and equipment in the garage. "Well you might have to wait on your bounty, what do you think of heading to Vapormills and checking out that club to celebrate catching that monster? Maybe get some cyberware while we're there I've heard they have good docs and am interested in a few less invasive procedures that might help us out, and maybe matching Phosphor tattoos if we get drunk enough."

“We got a nice payday already. May as well have some fun with it”

Cornelius smiles and pumps his fist. "Then lets catch a train, I was thinking of getting a private car at this point, Feel like I've spent more days there than in spike." He laughs as he finds himself checking the train schedules.

10:04 PM

Before the trip he sends out some com messages.

Greetings Xu’ganara.  Professor X?, sorry if I am unsure of your title.  I hope that you are well.  I wanted to ask if I could learn from you, as I believe you are the only person I know of in the UNW with such an abundance of knowledge including both psychic and magical.  I understand if you are hesitant not knowing me, or reluctant to waste your time teaching me while you are trying accomplish the goals that Robert presented at the unity meeting.  I couldn't miss the opportunity to learn from someone with so many answers.  I hope we will work together and help each other in the future.  Sincerely,  Marshal Cornelius Hardt.

(edited)

Baron, I hope you are ok,  I haven't had much time to stop in at the spirit as I would like, but I'll bring more customers when I do.  I've been trying different Taros alcohols, all pretty good, I haven't visited any breweries yet.  I'm going to that club in Vapormills I mentioned maybe I'll find something to bring back there.  I will try to meet with you sometime soon, I wanted to talk about plans for a restaurant/bar ship.  Maybe with the new shipyards it could be a reality.  I look forward to working with you more in the future.  

Your  Friend,  Marshal Cornelius Hardt.

P.S. Did you ever make anything with that Moongrass, I think a glowing blue drink would sell pretty well in the Taros market.  

P.P.S. What would I need to do to get a drink named after myself, or learn how you brew things?  Don't worry this won't be a repeat of the Kensh docks tragedy.   I will prove that to you if nothing else.  I'll swing by the harvest either right before or right after I go to Delphos.

12:00 AM

Hey Skylar are you ok? I meant to check on you earlier, I know a lot of soldiers were deployed to fight the bugs, I heard the bar was finished. 

Your Friend,  Marshall Cornelius Hardt. 

P.S. If you're ok and we meet up, I'll explain me being a Marshal and my new friends.

12:02 AM

Hey, Alex, Ed, you guys still in Egons?  I meant to check up on you earlier, I thought since you were in the same unit I would message you both.  I heard about the fighting with the bugs. Hope you're ok.  

Your Friend,  Marshall Cornelius Hardt

The messages sent, and extra bike stowed Cornelius boards a train with the Sons to Vapormills and Silicone. (It takes a day to get there from Central right?) (edited)

(About That Yeah. The mag rails are being laid so it will be faster soon)

Cornelius, sadly not much is known about the Red Sangha your best bet is asking Franz. I've fought with them but never talked to them at great length all I know is we helped their planet but they are mercenaries. They like to be paid. As for the Daughters, I couldn't tell you anything you don't already know.

@Garion

Thank you for responding and telling me what you do know, I just recently met with Franz and am reluctant to bother him again so soon. Maybe I could find one of the pilots who took food to their planet?  Do you know of anyone who pilots big bulk trading vessels and deal with food trading, or would I be better off talking to Herb and the Dank Crew, I was planning on talking to them soon in person, I think com messages get lost in their systems sometimes if you know what I mean.

"Maybe we shouldn't get on the train right away, we should visit Herb and the Dank crew first, I wanted to ask him some questions about the food that was sent to Red Sangha, he probably can give me some pointers about growing food for the restaurant ship, and about growing um plants in space."Knowing who he'll be making 'contact' with, Cornelius looks into if the Marshals do random drug tests.

HEY CORN, IT'S KIND OF A BAD TIME TO VISIT STONETUSK, LET ME LOOK INTO A COUPLE THINGS FIRST. NOTHING FOR YOU TO WORRY ABOUT, JUST SOME PIGGEN BUSINESS. 
GRUPP THE SHAMAN

@Regulus/Grupp Ok, I have a few things I can do first, just message if you need help, it's kind of my job now.

Cornelius. I’ll inquire about any operations within the UNW, but I can’t promise much. And I’ve never heard of the Red Sangha or the Daughters of the Lotus, sorry. If you think people are suspecting you’re a mole, be careful and keep your head down. I can’t imagine the Marshals would be too pleased to know that you’re communicating with me. Maybe they won’t care, I don’t know. I’ll be in touch as soon as I can. Stay safe.

(So what are we actually doing corn. I kinda lost it in all the message replies

(Heading to the Dank crew compound, is that in central?) (edited)

(No it’s in the desert. The short rail line by prime

(Upon reflection I'll go with original plan.) Cornelius and the Sons board the train to Vapormills, he asks about the Taros warrior history, myths, and any old battle traditions or important words or symbols he might use in his woad phosphor tatoo. (Taros 4/30?)

(4/30)

7:48 PM

The train arrives in Vapormills that evening and the platform is busy. A number of humans and taros are waiting to re board heading out to prime and central

"We should try to find somewhere nice to stay, but close to the club so we don't have to walk too far. I'm not doubting well all end up leaving with rich patrons, but it's nice to have your own place sometimes."

"Anything you guys want to do besides find a ritzy hotel before we head to Silicone?"

"Well I've been led to believe we can find everything else once were there anyway."

(multiple posts isnt going to make me get to the thread faster) The groups is fine with going to silicone first. They were able to rest on the train and are tired of sitting around

(I know, sorry about that I don't mean to rush you, just trying to chop up what I say or add to it. Sometimes I'm not sure if I should edit posts since it's caused it not to be marked for you before I think.)

8:22 AM

Cornelius and the Sons head to Silicone.

The club is getting busy, and attracting larger than ever crowds with the unification of the planet. It is an expensive playground for the rich and sometimes famous

Cornelius looks around trying to check out which areas are VIP and who seems in charge of them.

(if this is going to springboard into getting capital to develop some of your side projects, I need rules first. Not 'i want to do this, figure it out.' I need actual rules. or at least some concrete concepts )

(Do you mean mechanical rules, or something else? As far as that though I thought just make contacts if anything, I didn't want my first impression to be asking for a handout, were here to have fun and meet interesting people. I can give you the idea for the restaurant shipnow if you want, I thought I would save that until I met with Baron though I didn't want to be bombarding you with how I thought my ideas would work as much if it didn't make sense to in game?)

(You mentioned tryting to get the fighting league or gladiators going, so if we were going to get into that, i wanted to have rules first so your contacts know what they're agreeing to/ or not. If you're not planning on doing that yet we can proceed)

8:50 AM

(I just didnt want you to spend all that time roleplaying and then we had nothing)

(Ok, for that I was thinking when a pc or important npc is involved the rules, special events/appearances for the specific fight/match would be agreed upon beforehand. With an emphasis on making a show of it being at least as of not more important than winning. Then the fight would unfold. I was unsure if I needed to make a mechanical table with unique stats like with soccer to determine how back stage drama or matches between npcs would go, possibly to keep track of people's place in the story, their persona, popularity and things like that? I wasn't sure if you already had mechacs in place to determine product popularity. For the comics I thought it would be simpler in that I would get an issue made then need a printer to mass produce it then it could fall under far trading? Im not sure how popularity would factor in or be determined.)

(For the restaurant ship, I wasn't sure if far trading made sense to represent it besides maybe buying supplies, and even then I'm not sure if the scale would line up, and thought maybe it would be more like a holding, but the fac creds produced would stay as regular credits, just I could do more rp things to effect it?)

(Oh the Zoo, I know that would involve the live capture of animals, and I think I found a way to do it already covered in the rules with the Banshee Vox light mech weapon, but it requires a light mech so that one might take a little while to make functional besides the animals that could be caught in other ways. I was eventually going to talk to Robert about that since he seemed to show an interest I think? I think that's most of the things that might need more definition, if I missed something please tell me.) (edited)

(I've got to thnk about all of these, ill get back to you)

10:47 AM

There isn't really a VIP section in the club, admission is expensive if you are not a notable individual, your companions spending a fair bit of bounty money to get in, though they dont seem to mind, just for the opportunity to take some pictures and enjoy a night inside

(Sure, I didn't imagine you'd just give blanket approval, and I value your input.

) Cornelius looks for the cool kids table then, any notable celebs, or artsy types. (Fashion or otherwise as he's looking for someone to do costumes/outfits, and an artist or art teacher for the comics.) (edited)

(connect/wis)

(oof 5 with a plus 3 double ones, I guess Cornelius is the old guy at the club oh man.lol) (edited)

Cornelius is definitely the old man in the club. It's hard to tell who an 'artsy' type would be, as everyone in the club has cutting edge clothing and is making daring fashion choices in both dress and actual cyberware augmentations

Cornelius decides to switch tracks a bit, and look for someone older or who also seems to be an onlooker waiting to be approached, apart from the mingling rich kids. Someone that will have something in common with him by their age or isolation.

(I wasn't going to keep looking for different groups to get new roles, but I thought this might make sense since it's almost the exact opposite of what I was looking for the first time?)

Silicone is a young person's bar, you're probably the oldest person here, but there are a few conversations happening in lounge areas, where the demeanors of those present seems to be a bit more professional and apart from the partying

Cornelius walks by under the guise of finding an empty lounge area for himself and the sons while listening in for a conversation to join.(I don't think they are with him, it's just the excuse he might use if someone asks.) (edited)

Most of the conversations are pretty mundane, just day to day life, and without having context for names, just catching up on family matters. One group is talking about the fight between Iron Duchess and Rhys last week

Cornelius approaches that group, and waits for an appropriate lull before piping up. "Excuse me, but I heard you talking about the Duchess, Rhys fight. Did something seem different to you about the way Rhyss was fighting after she got up? It was the first league fight I watched in person, so im not sure if that or the popping is common in fights involving cyberware."

“It’s common. Fight was pretty good. Worth the ticket. You could feel the emotion”

"I agree, I think I saw the Duchess crying when she held her hands up. Do you know when their next fights will be? I didn't see much on the Duchess' fansite, and Rhyss' was down last time I checked."

Good to hear from you, Corn. Saboteur cannibal serial killers are par for the course, good thing he was a pyromaniac to make it interesting, eh? Good to know you're fighting the good fight still, sounds like you're earning that badge. 
Can't say I know this club, but if it has anything to drink and the pleasure of your company then the Greyhounds will be there to exhaust supplies of both. We can discuss tattoos in person then, I've already got a few ideas that would look great on you, no fucking mistake! Just say the word and we'll be there.
--- Captain Cass McIlroy

ADDENDUM: I would advise against taking the Captain's opinions on any form of decoration, she has a unique mindset in regards to such things.
--- Wire

Cornelius checks his compad looking away from the conversation. Then tries badly to hide a smile when he reads the message. "Sorry, pressing business allow me to step away for a second please." He nods at the Taros in the lounge then actually does try to find an empty lounge of his own while he types a response. (edited)

There are a few booths and ocne you sit down in one, a couple of the other sons begin making their way over, but you have a few moments to write a reply

Happy with his reply, Cornelius turns to the Sons in the lounge. "How did you do? I found some more fight fans, and the greyhounds might be coming, but maybe I feel too old for this scene. Maybe that cyber ware or some drinks will help, what do you think about ordering bottle service?"

They shurg, none of them with a strong opinion either way. The emotion of the drop, and capture, is catching up with everyone

"Well let's do it then, it's something I've always wanted to experience." Cornelius tries to flag down a waitress.

One comes over "Evening everyone, what can I get for you?'

"Yes, I was wondering if we could get some bottle service please?" Cornelius looks at the waitress hopefully. "Some friends might be joining us later."

"its 500 credits for the night. Think you can manage that? "

"Yes, I think so, thank you for your help, please take this for yourself." Cornelius gives the waitress two 500 credit chips. "My name is Cornelius Hardt, If you could direct my friends over here when they come, and maybe tell me a little bit about any celebrities, notable artists or fashion designers here tonight I would appreciate it. Thank you for your time, I know it's busy tonight."

"I've got tables to keep timely service on, but there's a designer here tonight, the woman in the blue dress with the sides cut out, shes got the neon rib work

"Thank you, for the information. I understand, I'm sure your usual patrons tip better than I could. My friends should be able to find the lounges on their own." Cornelius looks around for the woman with the glowing ribs.

She's not hard to find, her hair is a shocking shade of summer sky blue, to match her rib lights, though she does something with her hands to make them strobe for a moment, to the bedazzlement of onlookers

Cornelius approaches her. "I love your look, the flashing blue and open cut dress are striking, and the embodiment of flash without being overdone. I simply couldn't live with myself if I didn't make introductions. I am Cornelius Hardt and I must know the name of such a fashion genius."

"My name? that changes as often as my clothes, but it is nice to meet you"

"Yes, our meeting is most auspicious." Cornelius looks at the other people around her table. "How many of them wear designs of yours?"

(basically think a parody of the 'blue sweater' speech from devil wears prada, because meryl does it better than i ever could) "..so as you can see, really, everyone in here is wearing one of my designs in some way or another"

"I don't doubt your influence, but I'm sure the looks you design yourself surpass those merely inspired by them."

"Imitation is the best form, as you humans say" she smiles. "So is this leading somewhere Mr. Hardt?"

"If you will indulge me a little further, I assure you I'm coming to a point. Even in Vapormills you must be aware of the fight league in some capacity."

"I've been to a few of the bouts" she admits

"The passion and skill of the fighters is impressive, but I think it could be so much more with a little more showmanship, and style. I think the same could be said of many of the groups acting in the UNW. To this end I would like to ask you if you would help to design the looks of my expanding troupe of adventurers, possibly the fighters in my own league one day. The right outfit can completely change a first impression, and that can mean life or death in my line of work. I can tell by your designs, and what you've said that you know this, and have great amount of passion and talent. You can't inspire anyone to great deeds if all your look inspires is a yawn."

"My work is costly, as you can guess. What are you willing to offer?"

10:25 AM

"And for how much initial work?"

"I'm not as rich as the great houses of Vapormills, I won't try to convince you of that. Even though I have only been an adventurer for several months, I have met high level dignitaries and generals, and been mentioned in the news several times in regard to important events. If you would work with me and my team on our look, including some possibly necessary cyberware. I would give you every credit I have, this is important to me, and I don't want to under value your time or effort. That is nearly 400,000 credits, I apologize for the underwhelming amount, but hope you will look past it."

'I make costumes. Not computers, but I can make a dozen outfits for that amount:

"There are only 8 of us right now, though 2 might be unavailable to work with directly. I only meant that you seemed to complement your cyber ware with your designs, not that you would perform the surgery yourself, but perhaps you have a doctor or artist that you trust? I was thinking of using phosphor tatoos, and armor that can look like different outfits perhaps when more protection was needed ? The programable and thus variable yet functional nature of both intrigued me with it's potential for different designs. You probably know more about them than I do."

"So you're not interested in my services for garments then? this is a bid negotiation, if you're hiring me, we can discuss details later"

"I am interested, I just wanted to make sure it would be ok to replicate some of your designs, or get your input with that as well since going to dangerous places sometimes requires more protection than even the most finely crafted outfit alone can provide. I hope together we can improve the aesthetics of the UNW."

(you lost me, so you want her to make military gear? )

(She would still make costumes and do designs and consulting. I was trying to think of the best way to wear them in combat situations, since regular clothes aren't so protective. Maybe she could work with an engineer? I thought it would be ok since I planned to have some masterwork armor and weapons made for the sons? Having her help design them seemed like an interesting idea.)

(shes not a forge person, shes a seamstress. I mean she can make them look cool but shes not going tog ive you masterwork

(I only mentioned the master craft part since to do that you gave to get things built from scratch. So they could be built to her cool looking designs?)

(guess so)

(Sorry, I didn't mean to make it overly complicated, just that or replicating her designs with armor like dax had seemed like the easiest way to do it, and I wasn't sure how to say that in character in a way that made sense to you and her.)

Cornelius takes out his data pad bringing up a rough sketch of the woad idea for the phosphor tattoo. "What do you think? I would appreciate any criticism you could give me."

"I know very little about human culture, but I can see why someone would like it. The colors and lines are bold"

"Thank you, I thought I would show you my general idea to make sure it wouldn't conflict with your design."

She shrugs. “Well when do I start”

"When you have the time, I didn't want to run you out of the club, but I think you'll agree our current outfits are in need of a change." Cornelius brings up pictures of the bright yellow c.f.u.with icarus harness and the current jacket design.

She wrinkles her nose in distaste “They do. A pedestrian effort but I can be of assistance”

"I was forced to buy them off the rack, it was closer to the start of my adventures."

"Well, enjoy the rest of your party. Here is my information. I;ll be ready to work upon receipt of payment"

"Thank you I hope you enjoy your time off as well. I will transfer the funds when possible. Though I might try to gather the 12 first, or at least get their measurements to pass onto you so you can begin." Hmm I should probably get through paying for the partying and what I promised the Suns, maybe line up some more work before I spend all of those credits on the costumes. Well that's a problem for after vapormills. Something will probably turn up. Corn thinks before going back to the lounges to invite the Taros discussing the fight to his table for drinks.

(Did you have any aims for the rest of partying, or should we cut to the following morning)

(I cant think of anything else. I'm ok with skipping.)

Cornelius opens his eyes groggily after another long night of 'quality testing' Taros alcohols. He sits up quickly checking himself for tatoos or blue crayon marks remembering his drunken joke to Cass, and Wire's warning.

You find yourself free of actual tattoos but you do have a 3D rendering of your design imposed on a scan of your body (like a blueprint)

"Hmm that should be useful." Cornelius begins his morning routine of making coffee and ordering breakfast for everyone. Then checks the Taros net for cyberdocs, and any high paying jobs around the Taros city states.

There are plenty of doctors around, depending on what you’re looking for

Cornelius narrows the search to focus on ones who are also skilled Phoros tatoo artists.

Surgeons don’t implant those but several shops appear instead

Cornelius looks between the shops to find one that will work on humans, and has experience with full body art.

You find one that fits all the criteria you’re looking for

Cornelius then sends them a message with the designs, and the symbols for of the various groups he has encountered or heard of friendly and hostile, like the marshals knights, Sons etc.

Hello my name is Cornelius Hardt, and I was looking for an artist to program these  designs and install a full body a phosphor tattoo.  You seemed like the best so I thought I would start with you, does that seem like something your shop could do?  If so I'd like to discuss price and book an appointment.

A sharp whistle can be heard from outside, followed shortly by a familiar voice stating. "Now this is what I call fancy!" Cass strolls into the room flanked by a few familiar faces from her team, each of them holding a glass of something highly alcoholic. Upon spotting Cornelius, the captain grins and makes a beeline for him. A heavy hand is slapped on the man's shoudler. "There he is! You're looking good, Corn."

"Thanks, not looking to bad yourself Captain. Must be something in these Taros drinks, they are supposed to live longer. You have great timing as usual I just pot a pot of coffee on and ordered breakfast." Cornelius taps at his data pad, then holds it up. "I even got a 3d version of the tattoo designs, if you're interested. Met a fashion designer yesterday with glowing blue ribs. Oh and the ones sleeping over there are the new recruits."

"You've come to the right place, my friend. My eye for design is up there with my naming sense!" She winks happily as Wire and one of the other Greyhounds visibly grimace.

"That's what I was hoping for, but remember it should be intimidating as well as aesthetic."

The shop contacted has several openings available today

Cornelius sets the appointment for the first available time. "I'm going to go get my phosphor tatoo, does any of you want to get one or any other cyberware?"

(I think rather than make me decide that giant laundry list of stuff if you want to equip them with things let’s get a list going so I can yay/nay stuff

(is there a recovery period ? I was thinking of some of the inpatient no strain stuff form polychrome. Let me look up th specifics.)

(Theres a recovery period. The polychrome book is more specialized)

9:25 PM

(And That planet is actually in the discovered part of the game. Depending on what you want it may not be available here. That’s why is she make me a list

1

(while I'm looking it up are there any other books with cyber ware things in them?)

(Just those teo$

9:29 PM

(Two

(I was thinking the Integral biostatus Monitor, Integral commlink, and Phosphor Tatoos if they wanted them. I was trying to avoid imposing major surgeries on my friends, and I wasn't sure if the panic button implant would be too much. Does strain work the same for npcs?)

(It works the same.

(Would those be available? I know the integral commlink is a limited version of the ghost link tranceiver, but it should work since we have our own commlink server. Abel's permanent strain is at 1 already for the mesh right?)

(Yes. And everything but the panic button is available )

(The book says if available it's usually ten times cost so 10,000 for the monitor, 5000 for the comms, and 1000 for the tatoos for 17,000 a person x5 for 85,000 total? there is some other cool stuff but that seemed like enough for now.)

(That’s right)

"Ok, everyone I'm going to scan you to send your measurements so the costume work can begin if that's alright, as there is only six of us I'll transfer half of the money (200,000) and give her a call, hopefuly that will be ok." Cornelius transfers the funds, and scans then calls the designer.

“Yes?” She answers on the third ring

"Good morning, this is Cornelius Hardt we met at Silicone yesterday? I was just calling to tell you I transfered the funds and sent you measurments for the first six costumes. I hope that is allright. I know we talked about 12 then, but I havent recruited the last members yet." (edited)

“Six is enough to get going. Very well.

4:54 PM

“What did you have in mind? You were not very clear when asked last night”

"Inspiring? It would be best if they were easy to move, fight or ride a grav bike in. The look we were going for before was of ancient earth biker gangs, but maybe we could change that or at least update it. Possibly something that would still include the Sons of Corn emblem or highlight the tattoo version?"

(Did you have art or do I just need to come up with something later. Concrete Details are what I’m trying to get out of you.

(I could find some or you could come up with them but I didn't have anything specific in mind already so whichever you would rather do.)

(I think with the amount you spent it should come from you)

(Ok, I'll try to find some fitting pictures.)

7:26 AM

(I might want you to approve them though I like the way you played the fashion designer.)

(Works for me!)

(Oh, and Cass should get to pick her own picture.)

(What do you think of the things on these two pages, I liked the idea of an outfit that's made up of a bunch of little parts, or that translucent sort of obscures the skin underneath but the light or even color of the tattoos would show through like these. https://www.georgettemagazine.com/magazine/iris-van-herpen-fall-2017-couture http://www.liberty4fashion.com/blog/iris-van-herpen-haute-couture-ss17 they don't really say biker though for the most part, but one is almost if you tried to turn pocket sand into an outfit great desert camo. lol)

Iris van Herpen Fall 2017 Couture

by Romy Alfino

Sci-Fi

Iris Van Herpen Haute Couture SS17 give you a welcome to a Brave New World

8:08 AM

(That or maybe like a tron concept almost where the outfit would be that white, but the light would show through it highlighted against the costume. I have to find a good picture of that though.)

(Something like this that's sort of both concepts, and would make a contrasted complimenting light effect would be cool too.)

8:26 AM

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/492299802993056132/ (here is the whole page the led clothes were too cool not to post.)

Perdre la tête by Paysage du temps | Illuminated designs in 2019 ...

Perdre la tête by Paysage du temps

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/24910604159017305/ (That kind of lighted suit or jumpsuit where the patterns or lights sort of blend into the tattoos could be pretty cool too.)

Lighted Suits by Visual Drugstore

With the success and popularity of TRON, I just had to feature these two really cool projects from Visual Drugstore. Artist and VJ Mar-K.os is the

(So out of this stuff that’s cool not to post I need an actual answer. So the blue one is what you want? With a corn logo in it?)

(Did they all need too be the same? I couldn't find a picture with the glowing tattoos and the outfit, but for Cornelius' look I thought the wode would look like the blue when lit up, but with different symbols. His outfit would be more like white formal wear that could light up, let me find the picture for that I think I saw some. I don't remember of I saved it.)

(we've already gone way further down the rabbit hole than this needed to go. it will look how you want, i just shouldnt pick how it does)

1

4:57 PM

"I think I can manage that" she says after a few moments of reviewing the specs

(Ok I'll find it and use it if it comes up again lol, but rabbit holes are fun. Thanks for letting me fall down this one)

5:21 PM

"I'm sure you design will look better than even what I can imagine. I wonder, if it goes well maybe we can convince UNW factions like the Marshal's to let you update their uniforms? I'll run it by the Provost."

(I know that probably wouldn't fly with Marcion or Des, but Corn can dream.)

(Big oof, Des is dead you do know that right?)

(yeah, that's what the sob was for.)

5:47 PM

"Well I look forward to seeing your finished designs, and I hope you have a great and productive day."

She repeats the same and the call disconnects

Cornelius looks down at his pinging datapad, and reads Cyrus' message. "What do you all think about going to the briefing later? We could do some good there and help with fighting the remnant, maybe reduce civilian casualties?"

“Id rather fight there than here. “ one says

"All right we'll go to briefing then. It's always nice to visit the space capital."

(with the out of time nature of stuff I wasn't sure if the cyber ware would be installed/recovered yet.)

(It will be)

1

(how big are the platforms, if we were doing things apart from the others, would I need my own com server or would the 300 km 36 compads probably be enough to cover us and the npcs that go with us? Or is that something I should bring up in the briefing and/or mission coordination tomorrow?)

(You’ll have comms provided by your friendly fleet being in the area. The mission coordination is done we just have to give the other time zones time to sign up for a phase

8:17 PM

(A smaller group planned the actual mission out so we would stay on task

1

(Sure, I'll find out the mission specific details during our briefing tomorrow. I can do any gear changes then.)

(There’s no briefing beyond what’s been done in the channel so far. The plans been laid out. There are no amendments to it )

(I think briefing was the wrong word, I forgot we don't know that much about the specifics of the Stations so they won't be telling us: enter through vent b go 100 yards to the control room or something that specific. I just wanted to make sure I wasn't missing something so I didn't deviate from the plan. The plan was to board them and take control of the guns with as little civilian casualties as possible, I think? Loadout should be ok, I'll just change out the climbing harness for low light goggles.)

8:46 PM

(Sorry, I'm probably worrying too much. The last big mission went ok.)

(It went fine. Smoothly )

1

(Would I have time to do or start anything or would the time between the club and Cruesa be spent mainly recovering, and if so could I apply it for learning Taros or would that be too taxing?)

(You’d be asleep recovering from invasive surgery. Not really able to learn though you’d pick up a few days on the way to battle)

(Ok, I'll add that when you post the mission threads, I don't want to mess up the travel time adding it. Or get in the habit of adding it before it happens. It's kind of cool using mainly the monthly news reports as markers of time, it really brings the drunken lush rp to life lol.) (edited)

(It's five days for the jump right?)

(between all legs of it yes)

1

(9/30 Taros)

@Haverworth

6:31 PM

Svenka pulls Corn and Tania aside, clearly agitated at the events of the day. Ensuring they are out of earshot of anyone else “What the hell happened back there? We were being sent in to secure the station with minimal casualties, only to have a death squad pacify the damn place?” She is seething with a deep, barely contained rage she is trying to control while whispering

Cornelius looks around for mercs before responding in a hushed tone. "I'm not sure, I heard about them in the news, but the blankness of them still surprised me. As much as it doesn't make sense I don't think the mercs are to blame they seem like zombies. Following orders to the letter. Whoever gave them their marching orders killed those here. Getting mad at them won't serve us much though, and we still have the final assault ahead. You can be sure I'll look into it, I know Cyrus said casualties were inevitable and no quarter, but I dont think even he wanted this. I have to think he didn't if that makes sense?" (edited)

“I sincerely hope so - the entire point of coming in like this was to avoid this kind of bloodshed. I have seen how you fight and will willingly continue to follow you.” Svenka’s emotions shift from anger to sadness, which she quickly covers up “Let’s get to what is next.”

"Thank you, for saying that. I admit after that surprise I'm a little shaken, hopefully we can mitigate casualties or give better orders in the cities, that is too grand a scale for a repeat."

“Do what you can, but we are clearly not in charge.”

"I'm still hoping the ones that are remain reasonable. Cyrus has been a friend and ally in the past giving me leads in finding my son. The Remnant tried to kill Cyrus under the guise of surrender before, they are capable of horrible things. I want to give him the benefit of the doubt and approach this diplomatically. I don't want to get in a pissing match with anyone. I'd just lose and maybe get us or at least me kicked off the mission where we couldn't even try to help." (edited)

(Don’t forget that same false surrender killed an entire red sangha team accompanying Cyrus)

7:46 PM

(Including one of their abbots)

(I didn't know that Thanks.)

(Tania is going waiting to find out what her inspection of the station reveals before she responds)

"What would you think about trying to get us a more long range/technical and medical support role? Between our skillsets and lack of mech or powered armor maybe we could be of more help that way? Just a suggestion, but I wanted to ask your opinion before bringing it up to those planning the second stage of attacking the cities." (edited)

"I think Cal's team in the smallest city would fit with that the best." (Neko can we change our loadouts to include sniper rifles and sniper equipment like binoculars before signing up if that's a thing people want to do?)

8:08 AM

(Please don't feel pressured to join a specific team or keep going if you don't want to, I just thought it would be a way for us to stick together, and to keep out of the direct line of fire. You both seem pretty cool I don't want you to get killed by the Remnant if I can avoid it.)

The ships locker fitting on several vessels would let you change your loadout you just have to pay for the gear

8:29 AM

Rather than force one of you to pay for the whole fitting again

1

“I don’t pretend to understand war. I’ve never seen real combat until this mission. I am not one to leave a job half-finished, but I would prefer to not be face to face with the fighting if I can avoid it - I am certainly happy to provide more ranged support.”

10:59 AM

(I do need to level up twice, so I’ll work on that today - aside from points in “shoot” is there anything else I should focus on to be decent in combat?)

"I won't try to pretend I'm familiar enough with things for even the scale of this one attack, but if you'll trust me I'll do what I can to keep you two alive. I haven't encountered Cal much, but he seems like a good sort from what I've heard."

11:09 AM

(I don't want to tell you how to level yourself up, plus you might want to apply foci or skills for things beyond this encounter, and I'm not sure what Tania has. Those conditionals being out there for this mission sneak would probably be good. Having hp is nice the only way to get that though is constitution plusses or die hard focus lvl 1 that I know of . I'm not sure what you wanted to focus it looks like you're doing stuff with drones so fix is probably good. Something you might not have thought of is boosting any stats you have if some are on the threshold of giving a plus or losing a minus? Strength is the only one I think that gives anything outside of that in encumbrance. You didn't shoot so bad though and your natural Taros dexterity helps you there. Other stuff like cyberware is situational and not an option here I think. there are the gunslinger, and other combat foci, but like I said don't just get them if you don't want combat to be your focus later you only have so many and leveling gets slower.)

@Haverworth @Svenka [Tig/M’Ranni] (if you're interested in joining Cal don't forget to react to the mission there, that's how they count the numbers.)

"I wouldn't leave you to go by yourselves. And in any case, I want to make sure that the Civilians are kept out of it this time around. What's the point of freeing them from one butcher just to follow another? I think we can agree that non-uniformed and unarmed personnel are not to be fired upon?"

"With the way we're outnumbered, I don't think we could waste the bullets even if we wanted to. I agree with you though avoiding civilian casualties is a priority, so we should be careful. I've heard horror stories about the Remnant higher ups killing their own civilians or captured ones to avoid them being freed or becoming UNW citizens."

"We will have to be wary of traps, don't let civilians approach you and don't approach them either. Just have them go and cower and wait for the fighting to be over. That's for the best."

"That makes sense, and I'll try to remember it. Sometimes it's hard if the trap is someone wounded who I might help, that's gotten me into trouble before, like with charging the engineers." Cornelius tries not to lose track of Tania's hands after bringing that up. (edited)

Tania smirks "Relax I'm not going to hit you again" *She pauses as she makes direct eye contact with Cornelius as a glint flashes past her eyes, "unless you do something so reckless again"

Cornelius laughs still tracking her hands and shrugs. "No promises, and you were the one, charging the heavy machine gun, luckily we took out the gunner before he could do more than hear my clever taunting."

"I assumed you two would take cover. I was the one with the explosives you know."

"We did, but their shots went through the cover we could find. So I went prone and thought I would try to warn you. You were there for the rest."

Cornelius fumbles with his early deployed chute trying to stop the spinning and take stock. Ultimately cutting it and hoping his harness will slow his fall. Though it does eventually come on the slightly reduced speed just lets him see how bad off he is. With a sigh he starts his internal compad recording and fishes through his gear for a scanner to do the same. “Well I don’t think this is going to end well for me so I’d better get started to cover everyone. I Cornelius Hardt, being of sound body and mind and all that. Well it’s your problem to figure out the legality now I guess. “Firstly I offer to anyone who wants it, but especially Svenka and Tania, membership to the Sons of Corn and all rights entailed therein. Though I do charge you with taking up our mission of furthering charity, unity, opposing evil where it is found, and inclusion of all groups and races should you accept, as I’m pressed for time inquire further with Abel Kovacks.” “I leave my credits, lodging and equipment excepting what is mentioned specifically, all designs of tattoos and costumes to the current and hopefully future sons to use as they see fit to accomplish our goals.” “To my friend and the first Son besides myself Kensh I leave the outfit being made for me. I never was able to get your measurements. To Cass captain of the Greyhounds and member of the Sons of Corn I will return your bike, I hope you like the new paintjob I also leave you my jacket, greyhound patch firmly and proudly attached, I’m glad it survives me, you should also have an outfit being designed.

9:51 PM

To my new friend Svenka I give my bike, and a jacket and custom outfit if you choose. To the Marshals I hope you’ll prosper, and see an ally in the small group I’ve formed. I hope the Rawhani missions go well. The best I could figure the missing refugees might be scattered about or kept prisoner in Saturnet. To all the big wigs I don’t think I can offer you much else besides thanking you for taking the chance on me. To Miss Clements I give the rights to all of the ideas she is interested in and the rest to anyone who cares to accomplish them. The one exception being the sadly unfinished Captain Fate comic #1 that I leave to ghost Regulus, I hope you enjoy it, but leave it’s Fate in your capable hands. Also for Peter Sparkers there should be a custom jacket somewhere. To Grupp, you’ve probably shifted by now but I used the first scan I took of you to get a jacket made. Robert I will miss your friendship, and your hugs. Finally President Kincaid, I’m sorry we could never meet in person, but I thank you for accepting me into your great nation. With that I think I’m finished. Hopefully this will reach those for whom it’s intended once your missions are complete.” “Well one last thing, never did get to show these off, guess now’s a good time as any.” Cornelius gives a long exhale then takes his helmet off to reveal bright glowing blue tattoos looking like celtic battle symbols covering his face. His smile changes to a look of shock then the video cuts to his eye camera for a second before the feed goes out.

7

10

9:51 PM

@everyone

Svenka sees the incoming message light up within her helmet and, against her better judgement, views it. Tears well up in her eyes that she tries to choke back. She watches it in it’s entirety while making her way down the streets to approach the garrison. She switches off her radio and records a message. “God damn war. I didn’t get much of a chance to know Cornelius, but I guess it is true when they say you know a lot of a man when you need to trust them with your life. To be honest, when I first saw Cornelius arrive with his entourage, I thought he was a cocky kid.” She gives a grim smile “In reality he was a brave man. I don’t know a lot about the Sons of Corn, but I would be happy to work with them or as a part of them if they are anything like he was.” She struggles to hold back tears “I... I hope that you find peace, Cornelius. If I don’t make it... Oh shit, need to go. Goodbye, friend.”