Iron Stars - ferrous

@Ferrous Bullier (We had a past Geon player with us in the UNW named Silvanodi , who was in contact with a tribe of Geon on Gudrun's surface, but went missing /ghosted the game, before the quest line could be completed, any desire in picking up the trail? )

(That sounds great!)

Ferrous awakens from his small apartment on Central, the capital city of Gudrun, to a message that the United Nations of Worlds is recruiting individuals willing to resume the hunt for a lost Geon tribe rumored to be living in the mountains of this temperate planet. Geon are rare within the UNW, mostly coming from worlds ravaged by The Scream or the destructive forces that have emerged since then. Refugees have been welcomed here and most Geon have found easy homes in the mining and manufacturing industry. The basement apartment is dark and cool, a perfect environment for a Geon, but it seems like forces are at work here, and you are singled out for something greater than a life of drudgery behind a machine.

Ferrous's feet hit the floor with a dull thud. He had been waiting for an opportunity like this and had put out word to contacts from his military days. Looks like it finally paid off. He wonders what this tribe might be like, what it would even feel like to be part of a tribe, having been a loner refugee himself. He wasn't much for socializing with other clanless refugees either. His craggy fingers fumble with the compad, typing a response: This is Ferrous Bullier responding to the call for those willing to partake in a hunt for a Geon tribe. Please provide a time and location to report for the expedition.

The expedition is meeting tonight outside the capital building. An administrator from the UNW government will be here, and it seems transport is going to be provided overland. Little is known of the lands west and north of the capital, and a secondary goal will be to document what is out there. It seems that there will be others assigned to this as well, and you should be meeting them tonight.

Well, better get my shit together. FIrst job in weeks he thought. Ferrous grabs his laser pistol and lingers for a moment as he holds it in front of his eyes, time to see if we've still got it old friend and holsters it. Ferrous grabs his pack and materials, reviews the coordinates for the meetup before replying: Affirmative. He grumbles as he exits his apartment, realizing he'll need to take public transport. The public is so loud. Hopefully my expedition-mates will have more self-control. He had worked in teams before without issue, but it was far from his favorite. Ferrous makes a final resigned grunt before heading to the nearest station, his excitement for adventure growing with each plodding footstep.

There are a number of Trivedi cabs working to get people around the city when busses and trains are not an option. One is booked for you to get to the admin building and you can see that two humans and a Taros that looks to be some kind of administrator are waiting. A large grav explorer is parked in front of the building, and looks to be the trransport for the expedition.

(a grav explorer is some sort of hovercraft all terrain vehicle?)

Ferrous heaves his considerable bulk out of the taxi. Better than a train I suppose he thinks. (sorry my brain skipped over the part where transport was provided lol). He nods to the two humans in acknowledgment before addressing the Taros, who he clocked to be the administrator mentioned in the communique. "My name is Ferrous Bullier, are you my contact for the lost Geon tribe expedition? Thanks for the lift"

(Yes, think of it like an RV)

2:08 PM

"I am, you're the last to arrive it seems, so if you're all ready I'll give you what we know about the situation, and the leads Silvanodi left before we lost contact with him"

"Straight to business then? I suppose introductions can be made later." though I like to know who I'm working with he thought. "Catch me up to speed".

(If we see npcs a few times I’ll name them. Generally if they’re temporary help I just leave it go so I don’t have a legion of half fleshed out npcs to track)

4:01 PM

“It’s imperative we make contact as soon as we can. We do not know the specifics of the loss of communications and if this tribe is hostile the alert needs to be raised. “

(That makes total sense)

4:07 PM

"Right then, let's get a move on. Where was last contact with Silvanodi? And who's driving?" as he asked the last question he looked around at the humans with an inquisitive smirk, an attempt at joviality.

"The mountains to the west, that follow the spine of the world and cut the temperate areas off with the desert , we think the tribe may be out there, north of the cities that the Taros administer. Silvanoid resupplied at Vapormills before heading north, making a final message that he was on the trail and expected contact within the next day or so, and then we heard nothing else. He was out there on his own, so no other personnel were lost. It's entirely possible he might just be living with them, but he also might be a captive, or dead, and I think we owe it to him, and to the safety of the UNW as a whole to see what happened. To that end, this small team is all we can send. A military detachment will not only be noticed, but might send the wrong message"

I hope they aren't aggressive he wasn't wont to share it with strangers, or really anyone at all, but he had always felt a piece missing without a tribe to call his own. would be nice to learn from them. "Let's not assume the worst of Silvanoid's fate, but we should prepare for it. It would be prudent to start our investigation in Vapormills, resupply ourselves and ask around." I'm likely the next Geon they'll have seen since he passed through, unlikely he was easily forgotten Ferrous looked at each human in turn to see if they objected, before finally addressing the Taros. "Any final details, or are we prepared to embark?"

"I was going to suggest the course of action you just recommended, so it seems we are of one mind. If you do not have questions for me, we are set to proceed"

(Ferrous would know how long a journey it would be from the Capital to Vapormills, correct? Not sure how y'all handle travel)

(It would be a few days. We have some unexplored country close to Silvanoid's last position we can discover together but I'd planned to breeze over most of the intervening hexes until we get to vapormills,a nd then from there a bit north

(Does land travel work similarly to space travel, in that skills can be trained? If so, for the travel time, Ferrous will investigate the engine and grav systems when stops are made and insist on driving time in order to familiarize himself with TL4 operation and maneuvering systems to train Pilot for X days / 90)

(Sometimes it can but not usually, since on most worlds there are encounters and other things to discover )

5:24 PM

Loading onto the explorer it is an overnight trip, driving across the settled countryside from Central to Prime, a city administered by Ad Astra trading company , a UNW faction. The city hosts many Ashen One and other alien races. Several thousand humans live here as well but you do not see any Geon in the streets. As darkness begins to fall your explorer pulls into a parking space off the side of the main strip heading through the center of town, and the crew decides to spend the night in perhaps more comfortable digs than the inside of your exploration vehicle. Ad Astra operates several comfortable hostels for UNW operatives out on special missions as their CEO very much is and was one himself. The city is clean and neon lights , video advertisements , and a stream of the current Iron stars soccer league game all war for attention. The city’s team, The Prime Numbers, are playing tonight against the CBSS red scare, and are winning

(Excellent team names hahahaha)

Ferrous grabs his travel sack and exits the explorer, his feet clacking on the pavement loudly. He wants a drink and to sit somewhere that isn't rattling and lacking in personal space. "I'm going to find a drink and then a hostel room, in that order" he grumbles to the others. He turns down the main strip, facing the bright lights of Prime. His rough shadow halts as he does Aw crap, who knows how long I'm stuck with these guys, better play nice. He turns not quite the 180 degrees needed to face his traveling companions. In a rote and rocky tone, Ferrous extends a half hearted invite "You're welcome to join me in whatever bar we first locate..." His pistol jostles at his side as he nervously plays with it, a comforting tic from his days in combat. On some level it reminds him he can protect himself.

Ground Control is a bar that you see at the end of the block and it’s the first one you find. It looks to be hunting or lodge themed and whatever passes for the local rural folk seem to not mind traveling into the city to attend.

these are my kind of folks. Ferrous sees a warm sign Ground Control. A little quieter than the loud, vibrant signs that abound in Prime. He enters and seats himself at the bar, nodding at the bartender for a drink. (is it acceptable in public to be wearing weapons? Ferrous would likely know that, having been raised on a UNW world)

(a concealed sidearm or blade wouldnt be an issue but in a civilized area like this, rocking combat armor and assault rifles would be seen how it would look irl , probably not good if your'e not in the wilderness)

A calmness came over Ferrous as he quietly sipped and watched the soccer game on a corner screen. He scans the crowd, keeping an eye out for those raucous and troublesome types a bar will inevitably attract. He makes note of exit routes and closest doorways, another habit he found it tough to kick after retiring from military life. Better paranoid than a pile of pebbles was how he always justified it to himself, and given that he was still in one piece, it hadn't failed him yet. (does he notice anyone in the bar that seems to be a focal point for the locals? High roller or local hot shot, etc)

There is an interesting card game going on at one of the tables, and it seems ot have the attention of the people not engrossed in the game. Money is being exchanged and the amounts, though small, are more than what a day laborer would generally be playing with.

(traveling through Monday so my responses will be inconsistent)

(no worries)

Though gambling had never been his vice though I have many he often admits to himself, Ferrous was drawn to observe by the rapt attention of lookers-on. He pushes his way closer to the table to get a good view and detail on the players and their wagers.

The wages are high, 3 to 5 times what a wage worker could comfortably bet, and it looks like the game is some sort of variant of poker, a game passed down from Terra over generations and hundreds of years. There is a crowd gathering at the sums on display here, and the people look the part of bumpkins and laborers well enough . (edited)

The door opens again behind you, as a utan, @Kodo enters the bar, with three other UNW explorers.

Lamarck takes off his glasses and looks around the bar. As he scans the room his eyes eventually land on the Geon standing by the bar. The slight crease of worry around his eyes is replaced with wonder as he openly gawks at a living stone. He turns to one of the explorers with him and without a hint of subtlely points at Ferrous and says "Is that them? You said he was a living rock but I thought you just meant he was a big guy! Not an actual rock! And he's alive you say? Can I talk to him?" Lamarck looks around the room and realizes he's making a scene. He slides over and tries to stand next to Ferrous, pretending to watch the game but really trying to look closer at him.

Ferrous is a Geon, and looks to be observing some sort of high stakes poker game going on at one of the tables. You make an observation that the amount of money going between hands is more than a day laborer would be able to spend on habits like this.

If anyone else is watching I'd like to ask them, why the stakes are so high and who these people are that they can throw around this kind of money.

The people in the crowd aren't quite sure. You don't hear the same answer more than once, making nothing they say more credible than rumor- baseless rumor at that.

"Hmmm based on the lack of consistent information and the gathering itself I'm going to guess this isn't a normal occurrence." On the hunch this isn't a normal occurrence do I see anything "odd" around the room? Bodyguards, weapons, maybe even escorts. anything I think would be typically associated with rich people (going completely off stereotypes)

Jostled by the abrupt utan and mildly irritated at being ogled, Ferrous follows him around the room with his eyes as he asks questions of the crowd. what a loud... Being. Clearly out of his element. No sense of presence he reaches a craggy arm out and nudges Lamarck gruffly on his (presumably hairy) shoulder. "A bit away from home, huh stranger? Best to keep your questions quiet if you want to stick around"

Lamarck turns suprised to have been touched. "Oh I'm terribly sorry for bumping into you" He completes his turn and realizes Ferrous is addressing him "Ah! Ummm yes? Wait, how did you know that? I've never been here before, I've never been on this planet for that matter, so far I've been to three different planets... I guess four now if you count this planet and of course you have to count the planet where I came from... wait what about questions? I'm not to ask questions?" His eyes crease with worry, and he begins to glance around the crowd. "Is that cultural? Have I committed a taboo? What do I do quick, please help me, I did not intend to offend! I've only shot a gun once before and I've never been in a fight! Wait you can fight! You look like you can fight at least. Can you fight?" He takes off his glasses and begins cleaning them with his shirt while still looking around the room, he finally stops and meets your eyes. "This is terribly embarrasing, I'm Lamarck and I must ask you to help me navigate this, are you Ferrous?"

Listening at first with amusement at the frantic Lamarck, Ferrous's eyes quickly narrowed at the mention of his name. who is this guy? Is the helplessness an act? And who the hell gave him my name Ferrous pulled back his coat so that not all could see, but made an obvious nod to his now visible pistol so that Lamarck would notice. His voice now less friendly and rumbling deeply "Why would you know my name and happen upon me in this bar on your 4th ever planet?" taking a mocking tone when recalling Lamarck's own personal detail about his travels. "I suppose I can fight, so tell me who are you and how do you know my name?"

Lamarcks eyes grow somehow larger, until they are the size of roughly a dinner plate. He stammers "Buh, well ummm, but you see, when, they you know them, the UNW" His eyes grow still at his presumed gaffe and he whispers "ᵗʰᵉ ᵁᴺᵂ....." He looks down at the pistol and gulps drly. "You see the UNW mentioned you were here as an operative and I thought I might get the lay of the land...." He looks around the bar, sweat is visible even under his furry furrowed brow "They told me your name, said you knew how to do things, thats all I know Mr. Ferrous sir! I'm just here as a... collector? I'm here to look into animals thats all, I just want to find the animals for the doc thats all."

Ferrous relaxes and re-conceales his weapon, apparently satisfied with both the fear and story seeming authentic. lamarck seems friendly enough, and he's UNW "I only say to keep quiet because when there's such money around and no explanation, folks don't like digging". Ferrous guides him away from the crowd "what can you contribute to my expedition? Clearly not combat skills... Talented allies are rare and I could use one"

There are no obvious bodyguards in the room from what you can tell, and if anyone is packing a weapon it is limited to a concealable sidearm- as this is a city and strolling down the road with a combat rifle would get you stopped quickly by law enforcement.

"To be fair, when we were shooting I did manage to hit one of them, at least I think it was my shot that hit them, it all happened very quickly you see and I found out my rifle had a burst setting, which makes alot of sense of course more shots means more chances to hit... but your assessment is correct I am not a fighter. Mainly my assignment is to track down different types of life, so survival tracking and I guess more recently the ability to heal things. Thats why I was looking for your Mr. Ferrous, I'd heard you are a fighter and given... how did you put it? Ah yes, this is only my fourth planet. And I've been in a dangerous situation on 3 of the 4 it seemed smart to find someone like yourself." He stops to take off his glasses, polishing them over and over even though they don't appear to be dirty. "On the topic of danger, what was your expedition? Something to do with this gathering?"

"no, this is just a stop over. I think we can work together." his glowing eyes twinkling a bit brighter than usual, hinting at his masked delight at finding a tracker . wildlife. Hidden tribe. Skills can't be that different "I'll do my best to keep you safe from the considerable dangers of less civilized areas" tapping his hip where the pistol rests "and you can help me with your tracking abilities. Though I'm not looking for wildlife. There was lost contact with a previous operative who was investigating an unmet Geon tribe rumored to be near Vapormills. I was considered a candidate to join the expedition for" Ferrous gestures at himself and taps his fingers against an arm making a dull clink "what should be obvious reasons. There ought to be some wildlife out there for you to investigate, if you can help me find them and make contact" "Hopefully they're peaceful" Ferrous chuckles with a touch of mischief, believing his last statement will send a small scare through the fidgety Lamarck. "let's find a hostel and rest up, if you plan to ride along with us when we leave tomorrow." Ferrous claps Lamarck on the back and heads for an exit on the hunt for a hostel.

Upon being clapped on the back, Lamarck smiles widely and scrambles out the door after Ferrous. "Yes yes excellent excellent I'm happy to be of service, to your expedition! And this place, Vapormills? It's where? Because I needed to go someplace north but seeing as you've already done me a favor, I'm more than happy to repay it. And maybe afterwards you could come with me up to talk to this group to the north, some muscle could go a long way. Yes, but we have to shake on it that's what we do when we make agreements. And back there you were implying danger yes? Should I bring my rifle? I think I will just in case. Oh this is exciting!" He rambles on and on about the expedition and the chance to find a new people, how scary that bar filled with rich people was and occasionally circles back to needing to find the faction to the north. He would continue pressing on a handshake but continues to the hostel oblivious to anything around him.

As you both exit the bar there is a raucous shout from inside and a man is thrown out through the doors almost directly behind you. Someone walks out into the street and fires two rounds into his chest, and a hand of five aces are thrown down over the body.

Lamarck turns to Ferrous, "I can help that guy but you need to cover me are you in?"(Is the shooter still outside?)

(Yeah. Making sure the cheater is dead.)

(Are other people out there watching/ is there a crowd? I assume this is out on a crowded city street)

(Is the shooter the only one with a weapon drawn or did others come out to assist/watch?)

6:11 PM

(oh lol same question)

(great minds and all =D)

(There’s a crowd forming. The shooter is the only one with their weapon drawn and nobody seems to think this is a problem)

9:16 AM

(Local police might when they eventually respond but this crowd isn’t surprised by the display)

braver than he puts off, ready to jump in and help some gambler he's never met muses Ferrous internally. "This is why I told you to keep quiet asking questions in a place like this..." Ferrous said almost out of the side of his mouth. "If you insist on helping him, then I've got your back, but this is just one man in a city of many. Perishing for the sake of a cheating stranger doesn't exactly top my list for ways to kick it". His words belie his readiness for action, as his hand hovers near where Lamarck well knows the pistol is located. As he rounds subtly to face the shooter and shootee, his knees bend slightly, as a compressed spring would itch to be released. go back. In. Side ferrous urges the shooter mentally, though he has no aptitude for psychic ability.

"Wait, I've got a better idea. Here take my creds and get that guy to let you buy into the game." He shoves his (insert device that holds credits here) into Ferrous' hand, "Just do your best to get the shooter inside fast, play a few hands, try not to lose all my money and maybe we can get some information in there and gain someone who owes us a favor all in one move, 2 stones one bird as they say" Lamarck stands ready to move, counting seconds under his breath.

"It's actually 2 birds, on.... Nevermind" one really big stone chuckled Ferrous to himself. He nods, affirming his part in the plan and taking (credit wallet). With a more relaxed posture, Ferrous places himself between the shooter and his victim. "well, I had been considering playing a few hands, and the stars seem to have aligned. It seems a spot has just opened up", a nod to his rear, "for someone with the money to play" he waves Lamarck's wallet. If I play this off with nonchalance he may be more likely to leave the situation He takes a cautious step forward cause this guy's a fucking psycho with arms outstretched in a non-threatening manner, hoping his considerable mass would naturally guide the shooter back the way he came. He gesticulates toward the entrance, flashing a smile "shall we grab a fresh drink before we hit the table?"

Lamarck stands ready to treat the man as soon as the shooter is inside.

Satisfied with his work, the shooter runs off, not stupid enough to remain directly next to a crime scene that he was an active part in,. He begins moving down the street at a decent rate of speed- while everyone else sort of just gathers around the body. The other gamblers are likewise making themselves scarce-scattering but with less urgency as they did not kill anyone.

9:54 AM

The man is dead, two shots center mass destroying his vital organs.

"He's gone, I'd wager he didnt even live long enough to hit the ground. And it looks like the game is over as well."Lamarck announces to the crowd. He backs away from the body, and walks back over to Ferrous. "Well I appreciate the willingness to help, I'm not sure what we could have done better. And points to you on the advice, they don't mess around in there. Although judging by the cards someone was willing to try. Unless you want to get invovled further with the police, I guess we can move on from here?" (edited)

Ferrous drops his arms don't know what else I should've expected, and turns back to Lamarck, extending his wallet. "Dangerous of you to try and help the man, but brave. I have no need to discuss details with cops, let's get gone." Just want a stupid beer and people go getting themselves blown away at my feet "To answer your question from before, Vapormills is west of here." he says with a dull tone, knowing it might put out Lamarck on his excitement. "but if you help me on my mission, I have no reason not to return the favor with this northern Faction business" he extends his hand with the warmest genuine smile he can muster, which is roughly equivalent in tepidness to a bowl of oatmeal a child has refused to eat all morning in a tantrum.

Lamarck takes his hand and shakes firmly, the smile on his face seems forced as he glances back at the crowd. "Excellent, well I guess we can leave all this behind us. Nothing we can do for him now. You'd mentioned a place to stay? Do you need any supplies for the trip? It might be worth stopping somewhere before tomorrow."

(Neko will my current survival kit be viable here/ can I go buy one that is viable here?)

(Did supplies provided by the UNW for this expedition be sufficient/were there supplies provided?)

(We're supplied for the expedition. You're both newer players so we couldn't adventure if you're paying for all that stuff)

(I'm good to go then!)

(We can just pass the night then if we're making some distance from the crime scene, sounds like we're tracking down the lost Geon tribe first, and Ferrous will possibly be some muscle for getting those animals released from Dank Crew later?)

(That sounds correct to me!)

(Excellent nutshelling)

By morning everyone has had enough excitement and from Prime, they're ready to push west to Vapormills. From there you might b e spending another night before shuttling north on Silvanodi's tail.

9:41 AM

Vapormills, being a purely Taros city is an exciting prospect, and the team is eager to be off from this rough and tumble town.

Lamarck speaks loud enough for anyone nearby to answer but looks to Ferrous. "So. I probably should have asked before I said yes to this but do we know anything about these people? Do we think they'll be friendly?"

Ferrous is stripping and cleaning his pistol (can you field strip a laser pistol?) to pass time until the others gather their belongings and are ready to depart. "like I said before, hopefully they're peaceful. Someone did go missing in a search for them..." pausing just long enough to tease Lamarck "but the wilderness can be dangerous. You must know that, hunting down wildlife". Ferrous chuckles "I'm a nice enough Geon, and I'm not terribly violent" accentuating his last word by forcefully putting the last piece of his pistol together with a click and checking its sight. He yells aloud to the remainder of the party "we ready to go yet!?"

The clicking of the gun, makes Lamarcks eyes go a bit wider. "No... You haven't seemed violent to me so far. And I don't think its fair to call a whole race one thing or another, I mean not too long ago the Utan were a.... simpler? people living in the trees and now here I am on a different planet watching a geo-based life form clean his laser pistol. You know I used to collect animal samples, we would catch small birds and take a swab of them to test for diesease spread. And now I'm here, do they even have birds here? But yes, I'm aware of the dangers of the wild. Speaking of guns, do I need to clean this?" He pulls out a rifle that looks brand new. As he fully pulls the rifle out He looks around to see if the rest of the party is ready to move (I'm good to go! Unless I actually need to clean this thing...) (edited)

(yep I'm ready to roll out)

(I don't see why you couldn't. There's no mechanical advantage for doing so or penalty if you don't, but it;s probably something happening off screen during a character's day ) (edited)

The vehicle is boarded, and the crew makes way for a new member among your group. To the west there is a long trip to Vapormills, where you will spend a final night before heading north. The daylight hours pass quickly. You follow the rail line for most of the trip since the land has been cleared and there is a road next to it, before as sunset comes you see the city of Vapormills on the horizon. In addition to the Taros branch of the Psychic Academy, Vapormills is the first city that aided the pre UNW humans on this world in making it a safe place to live. The land is prosperous and industrial and you see that the city boasts a vibrant night life of its own -and is far more civilized than that of what might be seen in Prime. You are welcomed into the city and proceed down the main drag, with a reservation for you at Silicon, one of the more expensive clubs and hotels in the city where other UNW notables sometimes go.

Lamarck turns to the group, "Are we sure this is the right place? These accomodations are... Well beyond anything I've ever seen. They make the professors house look like a shack. And he had the nicest place in town mind you." Lamarck takes his glasses off rubs them and puts them back on blinking at the main drag in awe. "Do we know of anyone else in town? I'd love to stop by the academy but maybe that's best saved for after we finish this expedition."

Ferrous shares Lamarck's wonderment at the accommodations. "I... Was not aware". guess working proper jobs comes with benefits. "I lack contacts, but is it possible you have a friend of a friend at the University? You studious types all seem to get along. That may be an excellent starting point for our hunt." Ferrous grumbles a bit and shifts himself uncomfortably "the person that went missing on the initial search for this tribe was also Geon... I know I kept that quiet but it could help us in town. We" he circles his body with a wide gesture, indicating his rocky appearance "aren't exactly common in these parts, so they would likely be hard forgotten by locals" Ferrous straightens up "so should we hunt down the university?"

2:39 AM

He has an internal realization "wait are you psychic?" he says with a moderately suspicious tone.

https://www.worldanvil.com/w/iron-stars-nekosmash/a/vapormills-academy-article (this is all we really know aobut the Vapormills branch. Players haven't been here much )

Vapormills Academy

"Unfortunately I don't have any contacts at the university, I don't really have alot of contacts in general... 4th planet remember?" He smiles at his own joke. "But I agree, we can ask the people at the university as a starting point about rumors of this missing Geon. But I understand not wanting to advertise it around, but I agree it is notable. As for being psychic." He puts his thumb and forefinger next to each other. "Maybe a little bit? Just a biopsionic, I can heal things by touching them." He pokes Ferrous. "But I'm still new to it, just enough training to not mess myself up but after healing that man on Chloe I think I'm starting to get better, it might be nice to talk to someone who knows what they are doing. Don't worry I can't read your mind or anything like that." (edited)

(You'd have been through a week of psychic training to prevent yourself from torching every time you used your powers, which would have happened in your recent past before becoming a PC, so you'd have a rough idea of what you are, and where your abilities come from)

(Good to know! I'll edit the above real quick)

(Without that week of training from a metapsion, you have unlimited effort, but every single use of any power gives you a point of torch, which will either eventually kill you or drive you insane)

Ferrous snorts to acknowledge Lamarck's joke. smartass he thought, but not in a derogatory manner. Ferrous was actually starting to come around on his fidgety companion. "well don't... Uh.. Try to read my mind" speaking haltingly, much different than his usual self assured mannerisms. OOGA BOOGA he yelled in his mind to see if Lamarck reacted, in an attempt to scare him should he be poking around. He began to fidget absentmindedly with the pistol hanging at his side, again returning to his comforting tic. After waiting a few beats and seeing no reaction to his scare attempt (I assume Lamarck was being honest about mind reading), Ferrous starts up again, more similar to his normal pattern of speech. "Well, let's go check out this university then, see what these brainiacs know" He hesitates with his first step as he remembers shit.... psychic University

10:11 AM

(ready to go to the Uni. So I know Geon are about a head or so shorter than humans on average, how tall/large is Lamarck?)

(I'm ready to go too, and I looked for average heights but didn't see anything on worldanvil. I'll say he's a tall Utan. Neko what's the average for an Utan? )

(modern day gorilla)

10:41 AM

(in game terms, we're all about medium humanoid)

(okay so we're probably just about the same height, just both stockier than the average human)

(indeed)

10:48 AM

()We've got notes on the academy above, and the floorplan. )

10:50 AM

Entering the academy you see someone at the desk, and one other person within the small building. The Taros are new to the world of Psionic powers, and this academy is not so much for teaching but intended more as a residence for the Taros psychics electing to return to their home city and serve. Of those who travel enough through spike space to develop powers, pass through the academy and learn to use them without torching, only a few enter full time psionic service, and even fewer would choose to live somwhere other than home.

Lamarck takes a moment to look around, and maybe even tries to to sense the other psionics around him. He walks up to the person at the desk and waves. "Hello and good day to you. My friend and I he gestures to Ferrous were interested in stopping in and asking a few questions if thats possible? You see we don't really have any contacts in town but we've been tasked to look into some rumors. My personal alterior motive is I'm fairly new to being psionic and was wondering if you have anyone who has some experience who could give me some tips, I've just started to really develop my abilities and some insight would be appreciated." He tries his best to smile politely.

Ferrous eyes grow wide at Lamarck's open nature and honesty with a complete stranger in a city he's never visited before. He almost glares at Lamarck from behind. I don't think he even knows the phrase play it close to the chest! He recovers himself and raises his hand "Hi." He clears his throat and steps even with Lamarck, looking around furtively as if searching for hidden psionics "Hi" he repeats more confidently, "Is there anyone that has been staying long term? Perhaps they were around >rough length of time ago Silvanodi went missing< ago? I'd like to talk to them if they're around now" (edited)

(For the record Lamarck is proud of himself for playing it cool and not letting them know we are looking for the lost tribe)

“Yes I see you on the student roster. This is your first visit to an academy since your initial training. Have you been struggling with the use of your abilities ?” She asks, her answers indicate she’s reading off some notes left on the profile by previous instructors , combined with whatever passed for a care plan with the scraps of psionic knowledge left behind now

He looks up thinking for a moment before looking back. "I don't think so, I mean they work better than they did before? Is that normal? I figured I would just ask to see if there was any continuing education. But in essence I'm mainly curious but no problems"

9:27 PM

(I'm running around alot this week so unless we do something crazy I'm on board with whatever Ferrous wants to do, no need to wait for me)

(mechanically spending time at an academy doesn't give free psi points or anything, if that's what you mean)

(Mainly roleplay, he's just a curious nerd, maybe someone local to talk to about rumors, that's all I'm thinking of)

(we could circle back to that, between the two of you we've got two big missions in front of us)

12:35 PM

"You are both members and of course welcome to stay should you need a place to do so. We will inform the headmaster that you have checked in and b een by"

(Ferrous is a member of a psionic university? or are they referring to being a member of something else?)

Ferrous hesitates at the thought of staying with a group of psionics, then remembers they have reservations at the Silicon. "Uh... A very generous offer but we have accommodations elsewhere. If you could also let the headmaster know I'm looking for anyone affiliated with the university that was around in the timeframe I mentioned? I... We appreciate your helpfulness". He nods toward Lamarck, affirming he speaks for the duo. "we will swing by tomorrow to see if the headmaster's in and if he'd be willing to meet". He grabs Lamarck's shoulder and turns them both around to face the exit with a last polite nod (edited)

(don't we have a reservation at the silicon? And yeah perfectly happy to handle talking about the academy stuff later, just wanted to express the interest)

(oh yeah I totally forgot about that, gonna edit my post to be contiguous with that, Ferrous would def take that option over psionic uni)

The Silicon is a large building made of lights, neon, and stone to create a luxury hotel. All types of business is done here and it is the nicest place any of you have ever stayed in before. Valets out front move expensive cars into parking spots , and otherwise the business of a night life is beginning to come alive as the setting sun goes to sleep.

The odd pair stand out amongst the largely Taros patrons in Silicon. (vapor mills is a Taros city, correct?) Their stocky and respectively rugged and hairy forms contrasting the pale, lithe forms. certainly a step up from a basement apartment, but way too many prying eyes. Ferrous confirms their reservation, "Alright I've got us checked in. Looks like there might be a nice bar attached here we can get a drink w'thout getting shot at like last time" he grunts at his own joke. "meet you back here in an hour". Lamarck nods and runs off to his room mumbling excitedly, something about new cultures and studying night life. (Lamarck, since you're busy this week, unless you object I'll include little rp tidbits here or there. Nothing major or character changing obviously)

(Let’s do it up)

Ferrous Bullier

(it'll be like I never left based on what you've wrote so far

)

Ferrous lumbers into the bar at Silicon, with Lamarck close behind. "don't have to be as careful here, not so much shooting to be had as in Prime underbelly." he grumbles to his companion. "maybe we can find someone who's seen a Geon around here before." if the UNW put us up here, likely Silvanodi was also given the same treatment. Ferrous begins to scan the room closely, looking for standouts among the lavish revelry. (does Ferrous notice anyone watching them around the room, since we are an odd pair) (edited)

(I think you'd have some casual interest, but Gudrun is a pretty cosmopolitan place so seeing Utans and Geon is not unheard of)

They sit at the bar, Ferrous's stool sinking a bit lower under his dense frame. He signals down the bartender "two whiskeys..." (same sorts of alcohol in this universe right?) he cocks his head at his exuberant companion, rethinking the order . let's see how it treats him he smiles at Lamarck " 's on me". Returning his attention to the bartender Ferrous probes "any interesting rumors about the surrounding un-settled lands? I imagine you hear all sorts in your line o work" (edited)

(made frmo different stuff but overall the same, yes)

7:48 AM

"Little things here and there. Vapormills is a lot safer than it used to be. Something about a Geon tribe up north though, guess the people who went lookin for 'em vanished"

(I'm back on a normal schedule!)

5:34 PM

Lamarck sniffs at his drink, and makes a face. He looks to Ferrous and smiles. "Thanks, never really had the money in the past for something like this." He holds his cup up in a cheers motion and tries his best to to keep his composure as he takes a sip." He coughs and tries to casually turn to the barkeep. "So people just up and vanished?" He manages to wheeze out. "And it was recent?"

"Within the last few months. Explorers go out , haven't come back. not sure what to think about it really"

Ferrous smirks wryly at Lamarck. sounds like Silvanodi wasn't the only one who got disappeared... Not a great omen "any locals ever go missing? Or just these explorers?". A dull clink echoes from the glass as he takes a sip. He takes a casual look around the room, keeping himself appraised of any weird goings on.

"Just explorers. Vapormills is a safe place, there is a bit of crime, what city doesn't have its problems? "

"yeah... Safe" unless you leave the city limits apparently. He turns away, letting the barkeep return to his patrons. To Lamarck he makes a disgruntled sound "big help he was. Sounds like a dead end until we go ourselves 'n find out what's making these explorers vanish". Ferrous knocks back the remainder of his whiskey and returns the glass to the counter forcefully. "Unless you've got other ideas, or want to check in with the headmaster tomorrow, I think our next move is to head north and not disappear"

Lamarck makes a show of swirling around his glass as he thinks. He turns to the bartender. "It seems safe to me, at least in comparison to Prime, saw a man shot dead right in front of me. Granted he cheated at a card game but is that really worth a life?" He shakes his head and looks down into his glass. "No survivors then? No trace or anything? Is it possible they arent coming back for a reason? A whole lost tribe sounds like something my mom would tell me to get me to behave. It doesn't add up. Maybe they don't want to be found." After listening to the bartender he turns to Ferrous "I wish we knew more, normally when I go out into the field I at least have an idea of the area. But I guess we just gotta go for it. Who knows maybe we'll find something amazing!" (Depends on if the barkeep knows anything else but assuming he doesn't I'm good to go)

(We already have two quest hooks we're working on, I'm trying not to throw more out right now, and he's told you everything he knows about the vanishings- there's not much to be learned this far from where it actually happened)

(lol yeah I'm good on quests just wanted to make sure we weren't missing something here before we move on! I'm with Ferrous let's go try not to get vanished)

(yeah I was just probing for info on where they might've been last seen or anything so we don't run in blind. If that's it then I'm ready to hit the sack and wander into the wilderness)

(D10, either of you can roll it, we've actually not really explored north of the city at all in this direction)

!roll 1d10

Ferrous Bullier Roll: [9] Result: 9

By morning, the vehicle is fueled, topped off on supplies and is otherwise ready to depart north on the trail of the other exploration groups, and the lost Geon tribe. It was thought they inhabit the mountains far north of the city, estimated to be at least a day's ride from here without stopping. Previous exploration data never came back , and after crossing the open plain for two hours you come to the wreck of another ATV much like yours- nothing more than a blackened, previously burned metal box.

what the fuck Ferrous's groan is exceptionally audible, even over the vehicle creaking as it is relieved of his weight while he steps down to the surface. He draws his pistol into one copper colored hand as a precaution. ATVs don't just spontaneously combust. Before he approaches the wreck he looks about suspiciously for signs of movement, footsteps, or the panicked movement of a being escaping a burning vehicle. "You got that rifle ready!?" he calls to Lamarck without removing his attention from his scan. "Cover me as I move in. Let me know if you see movement. Copy!? " he waits motionless, watching the surrounding area closely. He fights a (biological Geon equivalent of adrenaline) rush to maintain his composure.

Lamarck lets out a small whimper at being called out and steps out behind Ferrous giving him more than a few steps of lead as he follows behind. He has his rifle out but mainly hugs it as he looks around. He nods silently at Ferrous' command to cover him. His glasses fog slightly with the sweat quickly gathering on his brow. He looks around trying to look at anything but the ship looking for footsteps or tracks of who/what did this. He finally manages to croak out "Co-co-copy" as he realizes Ferrous is waiting for his response. wish I had that whiskey thing now (edited)

Ferrous notices his companion's halting speech. nervous at abrasiveness... No-one to protect... Must only have that courage when he can perform in his strengths. "take cover behind the vehicle, I'll move in. Unlikely the perpetrators are still around, no smoke evident, this isn't a recent accident." Ferrous looks back at Lamarck to receive a nod of understanding and measure how wide his eyes are before returning to the wreck, pistol ready, stepping steadily foot by foot.

Lamarck nods back, but a small nod. "I doubt... they stayed around I agree with that." His eyes move from Ferrous' quickly around the site one last time. He moves his gun into his arms and moves toward the side of the vehicle. He makes eye contract with Ferrous and gives a more certain nod. "Let me know when to move up and dont hesitate to run if things get hairy, good luck my friend"

(Sneak/dex, both of you)

(this is my first skill check in the SWN system so I want to double check my understanding. Ferrous has 13 dex, so 0 modifier, but has - 1 sneak. So I'm rolling 2d6-1. Is my math correct?)

(correct sir)

!roll 2d6-1 !sneak/dex

Ferrous Bullier Roll: [3, 2] Result: 4 Reason: sneak/dex

(rock man does rock things)

!roll 2d6-2 !sneak/dex

Lamarck Roll: [4, 1] Result: 3 Reason: sneak/dex

(we should probably sneak everywhere from now on =D)

(just call us the sneak brothers)

Your investigation is not quiet as you pick through the remains of the damaged vehicle. Scraps of blackened metal are everywhere, and you find a broken compad lying in a nearby bush covered in mud

Debris flies left and right as Ferrous throws aside unhelpful black scraps. Their flights end all the same, with a thud and a fanfare of dirt. "useless, useless, useless, useless, useless!" Ferrous punctuates each toss with increasing frustration. One errant piece makes a rustling sound as it lands unceremoniously in a nearby bush. that's a different sound. Ferrous locates the bush a short distance away. More debris lays around it, caked in mud. The sun glints off of a glassy surface, barely escaping the brown muck. Ferrous reaches down, and feels out a square piece of debris, with beveled edges. Using a few leaves from the bush to wipe it down, he reveals the screen of a compad. does it work? This could tell us all about who was in this wreck He looks for blinking lights or a sign of life to the device. "You can come out! Don't see anyone yet. I found something though." He stomps out to meet Lamarck halfway to their own intact vehicle. "take a look at this compad, I wager you're better at this tech stuff than a retired grunt"

Lamarck takes the dirty compad and looks at it closely. His brow furrows. "I'm not sure I'd say better but I'd rather have you keeping an eye out with your gun then the opposite. I saw Iumi use one of these, it looked easy enough!" He starts tapping away at the pad, grunts and sighs mixed in as the compad is slowly worked through. (edited)

Ferrous turns around to keep an eye out while Lamarck fiddles with the device. In the silence he asks "who is A-yoo-me-yooz? Someone you used to work with?" He waits a beat... "did they die?"

Without looking up and just after the compad beeps out an error he responds "Shes another UNW member, snake person. You'll probably meet her at some point. And yes she's still alive, all in one piece last time I checked at least"

Ferrous nods appreciatively "would hate for you to lose a comrade-in-arms"

Lamarck sighs at yet another error. "I really wish someone could give me a hand with this thing" He waves the compad in the air, and a small part clicks as the dirt moves out. "Ah a detchable part! That explains that!" He begins pushing buttons once again with renewed vigor.

"Don't lose any pieces, we'd have to replace them with spare parts later." Ferrous eyes Lamarck's tapping with interest. He contemplates for a moment before speaking again. "if this was broken in the crash, any survivors would have been cut off and couldn't call for aid. Our best bet is to find any recordings they may have made before the accident, we might be able to stitch together what happened"

The pad looks to be dead. There is enough of the screen left where you'll be able to read something if it is given some charge.

Lamarck rummages around for a suitable power cord, after a few tries he finds one that he thinks will work and plugs it in. (I also have some type A power cells if that makes more sense?) He pulls out his own compad, and starts flipping though the settings hoping to find a way to transfer data from the damaged pad to the other. (if at all possible, not sure how exactly these things work!)

(Yes we would need to use a Type A power cell for this)

(I have them under other right now, so I don't have them on me. Don't know if our vehicle has any spares otherwise we might not have the power. If we have some spares I'll plug it in otherwise I'll let Ferrous know we gotta find some juice)

(other could be in the vehicle right now)

1:51 PM

(just not on your person)

Lamarck heads back to the vehicle broken compad in hand. He digs through some extra bags he brought and pulls out a never used type A power supply. As he plugs it in he turns back to Ferrous. "Always be prepared! Number one rule of survival!" He walks back over to Ferrous so he can see if the power cell has any effect. (edited)

Ferrous hides a smile at the jubilance Lamarck is displaying despite their generally lackluster surroundings. He unholsters his pistol and waves it in the air "I'm prepared alright!". He replaces his sidearm as Lamarck returns from the vehicle fiddling with the compad and some wires. "so what have we got here? Can you get it working?" his excitement at finding their first tangible lead is evident in his posture as he almost envelopes Lamarck in his shadow, leering over his shoulder.

(program/int, either one of you )

!roll 2d6+1 !program/int

Lamarck Roll: [6, 5] Result: 12 Reason: program/int

(We have bypassed the encryption, you can ask the database any questions you wish)

"ba- ha!" Lamarck suddenly shouts as he finally manages to get into the compad. "It was so easy once I realized the system! I don't know why I didn't just start there in retrospect. Ferrous I'm in! The first thing I'll look for is what the latest activity on the compad is. Can you think of anything else?" (I guess literally sort by most recent and we'll start with that)

The last message was a photo sent to a number without a contact name given to it. It shows two human explorers jokingly sharing a comically large hot dog together in Vapormills, to the onlooking of a few disgusted locals at witnessing the antics. You see nothing in the photo to suggest this bit of goofing off would get this kind of a resolution.

"hey! You did iiiiiiittt..." his speech trails with his excitement upon viewing the picture. "uh..." he contemplates for a minute who messes about like a tourist before venturing out to unexplored lands. Amateurish. Ferrous tries to start again "so... Hmmmm... Alright what about the next message? Can you get that one?" he twists his face inquisitively at Lamarck.

"Sure..." He looks from the pad to the wreckage back to the pad and gulps dryly. "I'm sure they're just somewhere else right now." He looks for the date/time sent and sighs. He beings flicking through the messages hoping to see something of interest. If nothing else pops up he'll move to a calendar to see if that has any information. "Ferrous, do you want to send a message to that number? They might care to know what might have happened to their friends..."

(Date and time would be today's since it works now, the calendar does not have any info on it)

(sorry I was unclear I meant for the message. Like a sent time/date to see at least get a timeline of how long this wreck has been here.) Lamarck flicks through the calendar. "Empty, looks like they weren't the planning type. I think our best bet might be to send something to that number and see what they know about our hot dog loving friends fates. " (Unless there's any documents/applications that look promising. Also I guess is there a recent calls?) (edited)

(Oh got it, that would be a week ago from this day in time) (edited)

contacting unknowns is questionable.... "it seems like our only option.. But why didn't it have a contact name? Suspicious that it was withheld." Ferrous scratches his head loudly. "perhaps these explorers had something to hide" (edited)

4:29 AM

"let's check out the listed contacts, might tell us who they were working for or where they were headed"

This team was another group of explorers on the trail of Silvanodi, though their contact was a man known as The Baron, owner of a very successful bar closer to Central, and a well known patron of new adventurers. You sense no ill will from the messages between him and the exploration team- it seemed like he was doing what he always does, trying to direct people to smaller issues that may have fallen below higher government notice.

"Maybe we should at least contact this Baron fella. He'd be interested in what happened to this vehicle and maybe he'll have some information. Why don't you call him up while I keep looking through this compad to make sure there's nothing else, maybe afterwards we can look for tracks but I doubt anything will be here after a week" (if Ferrous doesn't have a compad Lamarck will gesture towards his which he had pulled out during the decryption)

Ferrous grunts in agreement, and heads to retrieve his compad from their own intact truck. He walks back to Lamarck "alright, what's the contact info?" (compads can be used as a video calling device right? Otherwise I can rewrite this as a text message) He enters the info and calls the number. Loud muzak emanates from the compad. Ferrous hastily scrambles to turn the volume down, mumbling something about relaxing and can't figure out how to change the settings. If he could blush, his deep orange exterior would be closer to a ruby. (out of town on mini-vaca till mon. Limited responses maybe in morning or at night. I can go along with whatever Lamarck tends to plan)

The baron answers the phone and you can hear the sounds of the busy bar around him. “Hello. I don’t recognize you two. Did I give you a job?” He asks, looking at the phone intently

A long moment passes as Ferrous stares at the phone. The combination of volume and the barons appearance seem to have him tongue tied. Lamarck leans over Ferrous' shoulder awkwardly pushing his face onto the screen as the stunned Ferrous stares agape. "Uhhh. Hello! Yes! I mean no you didn't give us a job. We've never met before, but we found your number on a compad we found. I'm Lamarck and this is my teammate Ferrous." He takes off his glasses to see the screen better and realizes that Ferrous must be socially anxious over video chat. He pushes himself back onto screen as Ferrous stands still as a stone. "We're here a bit north of Vapormills and unfortunately we found a wreck of a vehicle. In the wreckage we found a compad that had your contact information in it. Unfortunately there isn't a clear sign of the passengers of the vehicle." He waits another beat and elbows Ferrous. Ferrous finally responds and manages to croak out in a gravelly voice. "Sorry to be the bearer of bad news but they're probably dead." Lamarck's jaw drops and he pushes Ferrous out of the screen. "We don't know that though! No need to be so blunt! But yes there aren't many good signs here. But the golden lining on this is that we might be out here for similar reasons to your previous crew." Ferrous begins cleaning his gun off screen, giving Lamarck a shrug suggesting he's not sorry he was honest.

Off screen, Ferrous can be heard in the background calling in Lamarck's direction "show'im the wreck already!". After he speaks, the sound of flying wreckage being thrown about haphazardly resumes.

Lamarck tries his best to show the wreck, by turning the whole decive around, giving a cockeyed view of the wreck, he tries to scan the compad around to give a better view but moves too quickly resulting in a blurred image of soot, metal, dirt, and a flash of orange (Ferrous). He turns the camera back to himself, smiling to himself as what he assumes was a very smooth experience. He abruptly frowns again as he remembers the whole situation. "Yes it looks very bad, Ferrous is still looking through things but we wanted to contact you as soon as possible to let you know what may have happened. What were they doing out here by the way?"

“I see. I was talking them to scout the area around Vapormills. We patrol routinely for any stray underhill , bandits and so on. I’d also tasked this group with keeping an eye out for some missing UNW explorers. They found something , but not what I was hoping they’d find. “

Ferrous seems to have recovered himself and his ability to speak. "Well if you want us to help figure out what happened and deal with whoever did it, you should share with the whole class what it is they found". He emits a small cough at the end of his sentence, clearing his throat. He adopts a grimace and a barely more diplomatic tone "we want to help"

Lamarck turns to Ferrous "We aren't in a class right now? In fact we might be in danger! Classrooms are places of safety and learning." He turns back to the screen shaking his head. "But my friend is right we do want to help, we're also looking for the UNW explorers and of course your explorers as well. Any information you would be willing to share would be helpful. My rude friend is rather handy with a gun and seems to care despite his rocky exterior."

"I'd tell you if I knew but you just showed me very convincing proof that they are dead and this mission has not been completed. We wouldn't be having this discussion if wither of us knew what did it, don't you think?" The Baron says dryly, not enjoying being implicated in something he has no part in.

Lamarck cocks his head in confusion at the Baron's response. After a long moment his face shifts into one of horror as he realizes why the Baron was being dry. "Mr.Baron sir Baron sir Im terribly sorry we" he turns back and glares at Ferrous "Did not mean to imply anything on your part we were just hoping you had additional information to help us deal with this as neatly as possible!" He looks back to Ferrous and uses his eyes to gesture to the screen, frowning. (Did we find bodies in the wreckage?/ Can we take time after this to look for them?)

Ferrous rolls his eyes. "I... Did not mean any ill will" he clears his throat again, "but you said they had found something, but it wasn't the thing you were hoping for. I simply thought if you shared that bit of information they found, it could lead us to resolve the circumstances of their... Demise". Ferrous finishes and looks at Lamarck. He fakes a sarcastic smile, and performatively extends his arms with palms up as if to say "happy now?", so as to make it clear he does not like coddling others' tempers.

(We didn't find any but we didn't look for much once we found the phone)

10:59 AM

"The vehicle was burned, someone, or something did this. They had contact with something they weren't intending to find, but I have no idea what it might be. I suppose this is where you come in. I will add their payout to your own if you can try to figure out what did this"

Lamarck rolls his eyes at Ferrous but mouth's "Thank you" before turning back to the screen. "It seems like who or whatever they ran into means bussiness, and they don't take kindly to strangers snooping around. If you manage to find anything out about who might have the capability to do this, we (he emphasizes this heavily) would very much appreciate it. You seem like a well connected fellow so if anyone has a chance its you. We'll look through and around the wreck a bit more for any more information, did the crew have a specific final destination or were they just generally scouting? Also how many members should we hope to find?"

"There were four of them on this expedition, and they did not log a final destination with me, we only discussed what their duties should be, and that I would render payment once they sent their patrol maps and report"

"We'll do what we can to complete their work and discover what happened to them. In the meantime, if you hear of any rumors about this region, we'd appreciate a call. Any pebble of information could put the puzzle together." Ferrous nods brusquely at the Baron. (Ending the call unless Lamarck has another question to put to the Baron). After the call ends, Ferrous lets out a sigh of relief. kinda stuck up, who names themselves Baron. At least he's willing to pay, that's something we can agree on Turning to Lamarck, Ferrous proposes their next course of action. "I'll keep digging around the wreckage. See if I can find any clues about what caused the fire, or if there are any remains. How about you keep running through the compad, they probably kept a journal or scouting notes in there somewhere right?" (Are there any impact marks or laser scouring that would indicate weapons fire on the vehicle?)

(there would have been if the wreck was more intact but the fire destroyed the physical evidence unfortunately)

"Good thinking, he mentioned they were to map the area so I'll start looking for that. " He starts looking at the pad then turns back to Ferrous. "You don't think that guy is really a Baron do you? I didn't think humans used those kind of titles anymore but it is a big galaxy out there." (I'm good to hang up and start checking this pad)

(Ferrous, that good with you? )

(Yeah)

The call disconnects, and you're left with just yourselves, your own exploration vehicle, and the ruins of the destroyed one.

"yeah I doubt he actually has any fancy human title. He might have pull with the community though since he seems to hire these freelancers to do general community improvement work, so he could be useful. Plus he promised to pay us these guys' fee too" Ferrous returns to his excavating, grunting as he picks through sooty debris, heading for what could previously have been described as the interior of the vehicle. (does the vehicle remain sufficiently intact insofar as there is an interior? Since it's a similar explorer's vehicle, looking for bones or less damaged items where the fire may have had more trouble reaching)

"Can we just call ourselves what ever we want? Can I just tell people I'm a lord? That seems ridiculous! What's the point of the title then? I am glad we've made contact though despite his.... Sense of grandeur? I'll look through this pad a bit more but if we don't find something soon we might want to move on." He looks around warily, they could be watching us now" (I'll search the pad looking for any notes they would have taken regarding the scouring they've done unless he feels like there's not much else on this pad then I'll search for tracks away from the crash)

(there is just the metal skeleton of the vehicle left over, nothing else)

8:00 AM

(so there wouldn't be notes or anything else, we've exhausted what there is here to find)

(That's what I kinda thought, I'm good to move on. I assume we're following a road/trail north so let's keep moving on that. Maybe Ferrous can drive and Lamarck can keep watch)

(sure, D10 someone!)

!roll 1d10

Lamarck Roll: [5] Result: 5

Moving further north away from the crash site you enter a dense woodland where the trees are very close together. The explorer clears some of the gaps by only a meter on each side or so, but manages to press on through. You find tire tracks heading west after driving through this area for about an hour. The wheels look to have bene fat, and rubber, meant for the wet mud of the woods especially- and not so much for places where there is a road or improved surface. There are no known settlements or other points of interest west of this area.

Navigating the narrow wood with all the precision he can care to muster for a vehicle that he's not responsible for, and certainly getting a few scrapes on the paint in the process, Ferrous listens for information from Lamarck as they increase their distance from Vapormills. When Lamarck points out some westward bearing tracks, he bellows "WEST IT IS! Hold on to your shirt!" and wrenches the anti-grav system in that direction (edited)

Lamarck comes close to losing his balance as he heaves to the side. (I assume he's somewhat hanging out of the explorer to get a look at these tracks)His glasses come off his face but after some bobbling he manages to catch them. He shouts "Careful! My glasses! I can't see without them! Well I technically can still see without them but I still don't want to lose them." He slides into the passenger seat next to Ferrous "Those tracks don't look like normal wheels, I think they're meant for backwoods driving like this. Someone is not only out here but was prepared to be out here. The question I have is that the UNW folks or the attackers? Either way we're on the trail of something." (I assume since I can see them the tracks are at least somewhat fresh since they're in the mud and are still present?)

(Correct)

(Nice) Lamarck points foward "Onward! and try to follow the tracks, they look fairly recent"

"Tracks! Got it!" Ferrous nods. "Tracks could be more independent explorers or the attackers. I doubt it would be from UNW sanctioned expedition, they likely would've been kitted with an anti-grav like us" He continues through the woods, staying as near the muddy tracks as natural obstacles would let him.

(are we following in the vehicle, or on foot? )

(vehicle, with Lamarck keeping a closer watch for clues since I'm driving)

(sounds good let's vehicle until we can't or something changes. We have no clue how far these tracks go so if we walk we might end up walking forever)

(pilot/dex )

!roll 2d6-1 !pilot/dex

Ferrous Bullier Roll: [6, 2] Result: 7 Reason: pilot/dex

You follow the tracks carefully and begin moving toward a clearing. You can see some kind of wooden structures have been built into the trees here reminding you of houses and storerooms

"If we see the buildings I assume they've seen us, or at least heard us. Do we wanna try to sneak forward or just ride up and see what happens? I'm leaning towards leaving the vehicle for now, we saw what happened to the last one." He scratches his head. "These buildings don't look like they would house people with that much firepower. But I don't know. Any thoughts? Do we just try to talk to them?" He looks to Ferrous, clearly worried about the situation.

he's right. Tree houses don't indicate a tech level that would normally do such catastrophic damage to an ATV "I agree, let's approach on foot", Ferrous points to an area a hundred meters or so away from the tracks they followed. "I'll stash the truck a bit off the beaten path, we want to come off as non-threatening". Returning from hiding their transport, Ferrous splashes through the mud. He licks a bit off his arm, "mmm very concentrated in minerals. Good for a Geon fallen on hard times". "like you said, they may be aware of our presence already, so sneaking might imply negative intentions on our part. I think we approach openly, with me in front in case these are the Geon tribe". Ferrous thinks for a minute on past encounters with Lamarck and decides he needs to clarify. "oh, hey, by approach openly, I mean so they see us coming. I do not mean 'tell them our exact expedition and who hired us'". He gives a suspicious eye and chuckles, "but they'll be friendly im suuuuure! Hahahaha", slapping Lamarck's shoulder, passing him in the muck, and checking for his firearm one last time as they trudge in the direction of the structures.

You see that that a rope ladder is unfurled from one of the closest tree houses , and two humanoid figures begin climbing down. They are slight, and pointed of ear, letting you know they are Taros, and not human. Neither of them are armed with anything they are not concealing, and quickly begin to jog over to your position upon making their way to the ground.

As Ferrous passes Lamarck he retorts "I don't tell everyone everything! Wait do I tell everyone everything? The professor always told me honesty is the best schema!" Lamarck follows Ferrous toward the approaching individuals. As they get closer Lamarck waves a hand to them in greeting and hoping to start things off on a friendly foot. "Alright Ferrous, you do the talking this time mr. Rockstar."

"Not a pr..." Ferrous realizes what he said and throws a sharp look over his shoulder. Ferrous likewise raises a hand in greeting, while simultaneously holding one out to the side to stop Lamarck behind him, allowing the thin figures to approach at their comfort. "Hello!" his voice rattles through the leaves. "My name is Ferrous" he bends his right arm, almost butleresque, indicating himself with the side of his hand. "This is my partner Lamarck", turning his body to indicate the hairy figure behind him. "We mean no harm to you or your people, what are your names?"

"We are Lud and Lite, and we live here with some of our fifty closest friends and neighbors. Thanks for not bringing weapons into our camp and waiting here man, we appreciate the consideration"

1:31 PM

You get the idea they're a little bit spaced out on..something, but they don't seem to be a threat.

Lamarck grins to himself as he tries to imagine the Geon's face. "Excellent! Happy to have met you both. Ferrous here" he claps his stoney shoulder "Is very considerate, always prefers talking things out. Don't you pal?" (As Ferrous talks can I get a better look at how many of these tree houses there are? They said around 50 people so I'd be expecting a fair number of them. )

(Think the Ewok village from return of the jedi, for scale. Two or three big buildings with about ten side huts or so)

(Perfect, that makes 100 percent sense!)

(lol okay good that's what I was imagining anyway)

(It left off with Lamarck kind of tapping you in , the locals are just kind of chillin , wanting to know what you want)

Ferrous delays his response, taking in the eccentricities of Lud and Lite. Lamarck's comments snap him back to reality, and he grumbles at the accusation that he prefers talking I do not prefer talking, he should know that by now... Oh. the joke dawns on him fucker. "Uh... yes. We would hate to disrespect the safety of your camp. We are explorers, reaching out to small factions, such as yours, in previously unexplored territories. Lamarck here is an expert in the study of cultures, he would be overjoyed if you allowed us to join you for a few hours, and I would appreciate any local geographic knowledge you would be willing to share to continue our peaceful expedition"

"We can answer some questions if you want man, but it's probably not a good idea to get closer to the treehouses for now, everyone's still a little jumpy"

jumpy? This is jumpy? Ferrous internally rolls his eyes. "You don't seem altogether too concerned" maaan thinking the last bit sarcastically. "What happened that has everyone so... Uneasy? We might be able to investigate, put your collective minds at ease perhaps". He puts his arm around Lamarck "we're problem solvers"

Lamarck seems surprised by Ferrous actions and immediately takes his glasses off and begins polishing them. "Uh, yes, yep, we are those. Problems. Problem solvers! Yes what can we help you with, we are explorers? And I'm a" He looks side eyed at Ferrous. "An expert of culture?" He can't help but raise his intonation at the end of that. He puts his glasses back on and smiles a too broad smile. "But yes, we are here to help put your troubles at ease my friends!"

"Heard some fighting closeby, We don't normally hear guns out here man, and when we got there, a vehicle was on fire. We didn't see anyone with it, but armed men creeping around the woods really has my chakras blocked my dude"

"Chakras? Ive never heard of that, is it a medical condition? I may be of some assistance but I'm not familiar with that ailment. Was anyone from the crash alive? They may need assistance as well!" Lamarck looks to Ferrous. Frowning slightly at the mention of armed men creeping around the woods.

"Don't know man, no bodies when we got there, just fire and stuff cooking off. All those chemicals in the air and the ground. I feel bad for the plants there, you know dude?"

"Yes... the plants there certainly won't do well, between the chemicals and the vehicle disturbing the site. Not to mention the effect of the fire. A natural fire can be a wonderful thing for a forest but what those people did was not natural. I've heard of instances where some seeds actualy won't fully germinate until a fire comes through so that they have a better chance of growing through the canopy, that combined with the resourse subsidy of the burned trees makes for excellent" Lamarck catches himself, and takes off his glasses. He then perks up. "I think we need to go talk to those people, they need to stop... destroying the forest like that. Do you have any idea where they are which way they went? I'd hate for them to disturb the ecosystem anymore then they have. If they were willing to destroy that area I shudder to think of what they might be doing if they're based somewhere deep in the forest. They need a good explaing about how important each and every animal and plant is. They seem to be disturbing the natural order. Don't you think so?" As he delivers the last line, he puts on his glasses and looks over his frames at Lud and Lite for effect, barely suppresing a smile. (edited)

“They east my man. Not far. Big smoke plume every night. They burn all kinds of bad stuff. You think you could get them to stop?”

(What time of day is it? It'd nice to have the smoke to guide us directly there, but do we wanna show up at night?)

(It’s mid afternoon right now)

(sorry for my lateness, got sidetracked) Almost sneering with his smirk, Ferrous responds to the woodland folk, "yes, I do think we can get them to stop." flashing his eyes at Lamarck and tapping his hidden holster subtley. "gotta protect the natural order and all the trees and florals, like he said. Just one more question from me guys. We came across some large tire tracks near your camp, do you know what created those? Was it the dangerous group?" a more serious look falls upon his face, attempting to indicate suspicion to Lamarck still need to solve that mystery of why the tracks led to this camp of hippies

“We went out to see what was going on. Got a couple of trucks here man but we almost never use em. Pollutes the mother planet and all”

Lamarck looks around the camp for any clear place a truck could be stored and shrugs to himself. "You're probably right about the planet. I agree with my friend I feel confident we can talk some sense into them." He looks at Ferrous' holster. "Can you tell us anything else you know about them or their location? Otherwise I think we'll just need a moment to confer about the best approach before we head over there."

"Uh, had guns man, laser rifles I think. Only ever seen four of them at one time, not sure if there are more that just aren't allowed to play outside , ya know? " he laughs. "Also, they're not Taros"

Lamarck sucks his cheek at the mention of the guns. I shouldn't be surprised really but chuckles at the joke. "Maybe they're in time out? " He laughs at his own joke. "Piggen? Human?" He glances at Ferrous. "Geon?" He raises and eyebrow at the last. Wouldn't that be a fun little wrinkle in this

"They're human, at least we think so. Hard to tell, but theyre humanoid. Moreso than the Piggen. I don't know what a Geon is man"

"A geon is... another race." He turns to Ferrous and winks I CAN BE SUBTLE "Ready to go save mother.. Gudrun?"

Ferrous winks back at Lamarck, not entirely sure what he was agreeing with, but figuring it would make Lamarck a little giddy if he did. In a growl Ferrous affirms, "Yeah, I'm ready. Let's go deal with these punks" and abruptly heel turns to get back to their truck. In the small of his back he can feel Lamarck's eyes glaring. After only a few steps, Ferrous rounds to face the strange Taros and his companion just as abruptly as his initial turn. Clearly forcing a smile he haltingly thanks them for their time and information. He awkwardly waves and turns again, genuinely satisfied with his diplomacy as he trundles through the woods.

Lamarck smiles back to Lud and Lite. "We appreciate your time and information, I think he's just excited to go give those meanies a good talking to. " He nods and waves as he takes off on all four after Ferrous. "If I didn't know any better I'd think you were a diplomat! So do we wanna try to paw it so we don't draw attention with the vehicle. They said it wasn't far. Also maybe we shoudl come up with some kind of plan? That seems your area of expertise. Sneak up at night? Ambush them? You sure you're good with that gun? We will be outgunned. Four versus two... and thats assuming I manage to actually hit something."

"Maybe I ought to give that a shot for real one day" he said with a rumbling chuckle, responding to Lamarck's comments on his Diplomacy. would for sure pay better. Probably not as much fun though. "I reckon you're right, a frontal assault would be fun for nobody. At least not in this situation. If they're running about causing havoc during the day, it's possible they leave just a single guard or no guards at camp." he pauses to concentrate on climbing over a particularly gnarled stump. He makes a light heaving sound as he lands a short hop heavily on the other side of it. "What if we investigate their camp during the day, possibly sabotage a few things, take out a loner, should my thinking be correct. We can take turns observing them tonight? What do you think? Maybe they'll be as friendly as the hippy twins and all this planning is for nothing AHAHAHAHA". Ferrous seemed to find this final statement particularly funny as he couldn't continue the conversation for the toll his laughter took on his breathing.

Lamarck smiles to himself and rolls his eyes as Ferrous entertains himself once Ferrous recovers Lamarck replies. "That all sounds reasonable to me, I don't really want to fight if we don't have to but from everything we've heard and seen these people are dangerous. Ideally we can just find their camp with them separated then move from there. If we're lucky I can pick up some tracks soon." (As we move can I look for tracks/signs of this group?)

(survive/wis)

!roll 2d6+2 !survive/wis

Lamarck Roll: [2, 1] Result: 5 Reason: survive/wis

You're unable to find more tracks, but as evening gets close your wanderings through the increasingly darkened forest come do an end when you see the promised firey glow from the distant horizon. It sounds like some sort of celebration is taking place based on the size of the fire and the faint music you can hear.

Lamarck gets close to Ferrous and whispers "a short distance away my tushy. It took us all day to get here! Looks like our plan of getting here when no one is home is out. But the music at least provides us some cover, I'll be honest I didn't expect a party."

(caught up, just want to see how you approach)

tushy? Ferrous gives a wide eyed glance. "uh... Yeah party was not what I expected either. Weird thing to do after a quadruple homicide, right?" He drops to a knee and squints to try and make out some more detail about the camp. (can I make out how many vehicles and/or huts there are? Does it look like a temporary camp or a permanent settlement?)

Lamarck sighs and digs out a pair of binoculars, handing them to Ferrous. "I mean a party is customary after winning a battle but not after cold blooded murder. They certainly aren't trying to be sneaky, which means they either feel powerful enough to have no consequences or justified in their attack. Neither is great for us" (I'll standby and I guess prepare to take action based on what Ferrous sees)

From the woodline you can see two large trucks here, each of them mounted with a railgun in the bed. They look like heavy raiding vehicles and you can see about twenty humans here, all of them looking like rough frontiersmen. The structures are semi-permanent, huts made from fallen logs and reinforced with mortar made from mud and pine needles.

Lamarck sinks down into their hiding spot, his whisper barely audible. "We aren't just outnumbered but we're outgunned. We'd need a strike team of shooters like you to make this a fair fight. But at least we know how they managed to take out the transport. Still doesn't answer why unless they're just good old fashioned raiders. Should we call the Baron? Call the army? These guys could probably attack the town if they wanted to, don't know who's around that could quickly deal with those." With each sentence he sinks lower into the ground, never looking away from the scene before him. (I assume everyone is partying? No obvious prisoners out in the open?)

(No obvious prisoners in the open, it looks like they're partying and just generally doing what criminal types do after a decent haul)

Had he a brow, Ferrous's would certainly have been furrowed. This size of force and level of firepower was unexpected. While he thinks, he takes frequent glances back through the binoculars as if there was some missing piece to the puzzle that he could find by looking at the same bonfire and same whooping, inebriated and mostly bearded raiders. He rolls over and sits with his back against a tree, leaving the deep impression of a knee in the soft mud as he lifts it from a kneeling position. "Why are they raiding random explorers? Can't be enough to sustain themselves and provide for shelter, food, water, even if they scavenged their victims and traded scraps. That Baron may know more than he's let on. He did say they patrol for bandits, your first instinct might be right." Ferrous face becomes less cross as his mind outraces his mouth, the half baked formulation of a plan processing in his head. "If they patrol for bandits, what? They just leave them when they find them? He probably has some muscle he keeps on retainer to get rid of these threats. He might even have had encounters with this group before!", stopping abruptly as he remembers that they want to not be discovered. In a quieter voice he finishes " let's pull back a bit, give him a call". bet he was being withholding. Sonuva bitch puttin us at risk when we're doin him a favor Ferrous moves to a crouch and motions to Lamarck that they should put some distance between them and the revelers so the call isn't made within earshot.

The raiders do not seem to have heard you, and their celebration continues. Celebratory gunfire echoes into the air, and there is another round of cheering as someone must have done something funny or important within the ranks of the feast.

Before becoming fully enveloped in the forest he takes one look back at the raiders. Trying to etch the scene into his mind. (Any symbols or other identifiers on their clothes/vehicles? Something to indicate a group identity).Lamarck follows close behind Ferrous, anxious to get away from the band of raiders Once they finally have some distance he lets out a deep breath. "I don't think I've ever held my breath for that long. We're lucky they were having a party any other night and they likely would have heard us. I don't understand, that group isn't just bandits robbing travelers, guns like that don't just fall into your lap. The Baron clearly suspected something but it's no surprise that first group died, it was a suicide mission. Blast it we might've been the same way if we hadn't showed up at party time. And what were they celebrating? I'd imagine we'd find another wreck along the road. But it doesn't add up, we need to call the Baron and then maybe the police too." Lamarck pulls out his compad and prepares to dial the Baron. He looks at Ferrous. "Do we trust this guy? Was this just a trap or does he not know how bad the threat is? I think he's just unaware but I'm not as sure as before" The compad begins dialing.

(no symbols, they're not that organized, and they're a small enough group that they know whos' in it and who isnt )

2:02 PM

The Baron picks up after a moment, in the middle of busy dinner service at the bar. He holds up a hand for a moment to excuse himself, and unmutes once he is sitting in his office where he is not forced to shout over the background noise of people drinking and gambling. "Hello! I am surprised to hear from the both of you so soon. How are things going out there?"

Lamarck leans too close into the camera, giving a closeup view of his right cheekbone. "Hello, unfortunately we have bad news. We found the group but we aren't equipped to deal with them. They have at least two trucks with mounted railguns and easily two dozen men if not more. These guys look like they're spoiling for a fight out here." As he reports this he watches the barons face closely for any indication that he might have known about this. After assessing he continues (assuming that he doesn't see any clear indications the Baron is unsurprised) "To be honest this doesn't make a lot of sense to us, this group is too big and well equipped to just be ambushing the occasional shuttle. There's a group of hippies not far from there that seems to been left alone. It really doesn't make any sense"

The baron does not seem to have any knowledge of this. "Well lets not forget you're hundreds of kilometers from the nearest major city. Gudrun is a massive planet, and there is a lot out on its surface we don't know about. THat is one of the reasons why people like you are hired to be out there. I do have some army contacts, though I can't say if they'd move in to arrest everyone there, or would just bomb the camp to hell. You’re the boots on the ground right now. What’s your recommendation to solve this with the fewest lives lost for our side. " (edited)

"I'd rather the camp not be bombed to oblivion. There might be valuable information in that camp. And they wouldn't be difficult to ambush given their loud revelry, its just 2 on a few dozen is poor odds" . Ferrous glances at Lamarck before saying the next part, knowing it might unsettle him. "We would be willing to join with whatever strike force might be sent if that would help convince your contacts to send an arresting group rather than a cluster of explosives."

There is some waiting while he has you on hold before a location three kilometers south of you is high lighted on a map of the region. A UNW special operations team will meet you there and you’ll be part of the group leading them in since you’ve been in the region for a bit and have a rough idea of the area and the conditions

Lamarck shuffles nervously as it becomes clear what's about to happen. "Maybe we take turns being leader, like I'll lead us to close to the baddies and you can take your turn when we get to the baddies? Also pretty impressive he can get a spec ops team into the area that fast. Do you have any idea how we go about attacking this group? If we're lucky they'll all be passed out by the time we get there." Lamarck begins making his way towards the rendezvous point intending to discuss plans as they move.

In the sky, high above in orbit, a single point of light departs the orbiting Trivedi Cloud space station as the SF team is on its way. Anywhere in the world in twenty minutes or less, a slogan thought to be just military-industrial propaganda, until now. Heading to the clearing, you hear the dull hum of approaching aircraft engines.

Lamarck squints into the darkness hoping to spot the aircraft before it's on top of them, he steps back as the hum of the engines grows louder. "I think we need to take out the rail guns quickly, even before they realize we're there if possible. Maybe we try to surround them and demand surrender? They don't seem the type to just roll over and give up but you probably have more experience than I do with this kinda thing. I wish we could have identified a leader, that might've made ending this whole thing quickly a lot easier." Lamarck fiddles with his glasses as the hum becomes a dull roar.

A black, angular grav flyer sets down in a clearing and ten soldiers wearing low light goggles and light armor emerge. Any reflective service has been filed off, or smeared with boot black to keep the night sky from catching it and making a glint. They move away from the flanks of the aircraft, some carrying gearbags, others moving into an overwatch so those still on board can disembark safely, and before the ground even has a chance to warm under the vectored thrust of the ship's grav plates, it begins rising again into the night sky, like some dark bird of prey. The team gathers in the wake of their ride's departure.

"hehe seems you've figured out the plan" giving another classic Ferrous shoulder clspping as they make their way toward the soldiers. He discusses with Lamarck. "Yeah hitting the rail guns fast is... A great idea...", his speech begins to falter as he clearly becomes uncomfortable with what he's going to say "uh... You're a" he clears his throat and a few pebbles clatter to the ground, and he speaks very quickly in a low tone to avoid listeners on "youreabetterstrategistthanyougiveyourselfcreditfor" (you're a better strategist than you give yourself credit for). Then loudly, "ANYWAY! I think it might be all or nothing with these guys. Taking a leader might just rile them up further. Strike hard and fast on their railguns, then hold up the rest while they're in a drunken shock." They near the team that was sent damn this Baron knows some folks, and Ferrous gets a better look at their gear. He engages whoever seems to be giving orders and explains what they had observed and the plan that he had discussed with Lamarck. (edited)

"Alright, we're going to need fast air to hit that railgun as soon as possible, from there, we can mop up the rest of them. I need one of you with steady hands for this, all the cover and brush in the way, it's going to be a difficult shot, and if they've got ECM in their camp we can't just send a cruise missile to take care of it. We're going to have to laser those vehicles for the gunship. "

Lamarck clearly suffers whiplash with how fast his head snaps. He's still stunned by what may have been a compliment from Ferrous when the squad leader says someone needs to laser the railguns. He holds up his hands as they shake (Talladega nights style) "Um. Uh. Well. Thanks. Laser? Gunship? Hands." He stares at the space between Ferrous and the squad leader for a moment, mouth hanging open. He clears his throat. "Yes obviously we laser the... Railguns. Ferrous I think that's a job for you." He holds up his binoculars. "And I will help spot for you! To laser the railguns" (Is that possible/useful? I'm thinking spotter sniper style. He does the actual shooting and I can help him stay on target by watching and advising.)

(someone is going to paint the vehicle with a marking laser, so the air launched missiles know where to home in. The other person can still spot and hold things steady, or perform sniping type attacks on any exposed soldiers, if we wish)

(Cool, I'd say Ferrous does the actual painting but its up to you Ferrous. You have a way better chance of sniping someone (I assume at least) but we dont wanna have the air support miss)

(His role would more or less be keeping the laser steady)

(mechanically what skill would the laser pointer use? If it's shoot probably Ferrous if it's not skilled Lamarck should do it so Ferrous can actually deal damage)

(It would be shoot more than likely )

(cool beans then I vote Ferrous paints)

The bulky laser designator is passed over to Ferrous, for his steady hand and mighty strength. "Very good. Show us the way, we'll move to surround them, and as soon as the air hits, we'll move in and neutralize the rest"

He grunts a few times adjusting the designator's weight on his shoulder. "y. Ye.. Yeah just over here" Ferrous points and leads the way, traveling at a pace best described as a brusque plod. The kind of walk one does when carrying something 20 lbs heavier than they ought to but does it anyway because it only needs to be transported a short distance. After about a minute Ferrous grumbles under his breath to Lamarck "you uh... Damn this is a longer trip back than it was the first time". They eventually make it to the area where they had been checking on the camp. Ferrous rests the designator on the ground a moment as he and Lamarck point out the trucks with rail guns, and other details about the camp. When they finish, Ferrous smirks widely as he dusts off his hands, much like a gymnast before an event. "Four planets but first one o' these I bet you ever seen" as he lofts the weapon onto his shoulder. "Let's see how it handles". With one final check with the strike force leader that his team was ready to go ferrous kneels, and aims for a rail gun saying more excitedly than one should when aiming a weapon "here. We. Go."

To those of you with low light goggles on there is a steady green laser tagging the vehicle and over the radio you hear that the air crew has spotted it. With a call of missile off the rail, you see the glowing comet of the incoming anti vehicle warhead before a mushrooming explosion in the middle of their camp breaks the calm of the night. The soldiers begin moving, looking to secure the camp and as many of the bandits as they can

Lamarck is frozen to his location, eyes wide in terror. "IS THAT WHAT PAINT MEANS? THAT SHIP BLEW IT UP! I THOUGHT WE WERE GONNA SPRAY PAINT ON IT!" He pulls his gun up and follows the nearest soldier to a firing position.

THrough the fire and smoke you can see surviving bandits backlit by the wall of rolling heat that used to be their vehicles- and their escape from the killbox. One soldier in three looks to be advancing with a flop rifle. Prisoners will be taken, but the UNW doesn't seem to be intent on taking all of them. You can see the shadows of three bandits at the edge of the fight, 100m away, trying to duck into the woods to get away from the fight.

Lamarck shouts and points at the three bandits. "Ferrous! Those ones are getting away!" He also tries to get the attention of the soldier he's near hoping between the three of them they can stop the escape. He pulls up his rifle and gulps dryly. Last time I was defending myself but this time I'm the aggessor, but these guys also wiped out that group of explorers, good guys don't hide in the woods with rail guns right He furrows his brow with resolve and trys to take aim.

(you may fire when ready, same with Ferrous)

Lamarck Roll: [6, 6] Result: 15 Reason: Burst Rifle shot

(Make sure im on point here, +0 for shoot skill, +1 from AB, +2 from shooting as burst?)

(D20+attack bonus + dex mod+ shoot level)

!roll 1d20+3 !Burst Shot

Lamarck Roll: [13] Result: 16 Reason: Burst Shot

(Sorry its a +2 my dex mod is -1, let me reroll, sorry for spam!)

9:21 PM

!roll 1d20+2 !BurstShot

Lamarck Roll: [18] Result: 20 Reason: BurstShot

(hits!)

!roll 1d10 !pewpewdmg

Lamarck Roll: [4] Result: 4 Reason: pewpewdmg

!roll 1d20+2 !pistolshotsorryimlate

Ferrous Bullier Roll: [7] Result: 9 Reason: pistolshotsorryimlate

(my pistol says +2, but then underneath it it says "advanced small weapons +1". Is that +1 for damage rolls or an additional +1 for attack rolls?)

(energy weapons get an additional +1 to hit)

(okay so 10 to hit)

(no that was me answering your question, I think that's where the other +!1 came from, i'll have to investigate, but 9 or 10, either shot misses, I'll move the scene up)

One of the runners is knocked over by Lamarck's shot, though Ferrous misses his own target. Seeing the runners, one of the UNW special forces gets a flop shot off, striking the third before he can get into the cover of the bushes. For their part, the raiders know they are outmatched here, and look to be moving into the woods. (double move for them, not returning fire- back to Lamarck)

(my math for the shot is +2 pistol +1 energy weapon +0 dex +0 shoot so a rolled 7 +3)

(I'll double check the sheet and should have an answer for you by the time Lamark goes)

Lamarck grits his teeth I didn't think I'd actually hit him with that He runs toward the treeline trying to track where the runners should be. He moves quicker than you'd expect when he actually tries easily weaving through the trees and general chaos. As he runs he cries out to the runners "Stop running and we won't hurt you! Keep running and I'll shoot you even better!" (If he doesn't hear a response he'd like to take a shot again. Preferably at the one who hasn't been hit of our three. Utan's get a bunch of movement stuff if thats going to matter yet, 20 base movemet and not slowed by terrain) (edited)

(We'd close to 20m from them, and you'd still be able to shoot. They're not going to stop running though.

Lamarck holds his rifle up again and sighs. I should aim for their legs but I don't think I'm a good enough shot for that He aims for the center of mass frowning as the burst of shots blooms from his rifle. The shot goes wide as he realizes he pulled the trigger while thinking about adjusting his aim rather than actually adjusting his aim. (edited)

11:48 AM

!roll 1d20+2 !BurstShot

Lamarck Roll: [2] Result: 4 Reason: BurstShot

The shot misses, as the bandits continue to run. (Ferrous up)

Ferrous makes chase behind his more agile ally. no use using words he raises his pistol again, aiming at his initial target with squinted eyes !1d20+3 !laserpistol

1:57 PM

!roll 1d20+3 !oopslaserpistol

Ferrous Bullier Roll: [17] Result: 20 Reason: oopslaserpistol

(Hits. Just need damage)

!roll 1d6 !got'em

Ferrous Bullier Roll: [6] Result: 6 Reason: got'em

The second of the raiders pitches over, shot through the side. The flop rifle from the spec ops soldier near you drops the final of the knot that was trying to run. THe noose tightens, and the remaining bandits toward the center of camp begin to surrender, leaving half their number dead, and all of their vehicles destroyed.

12:06 PM

(3xp, 5000 credits)

Lamarck let's out a loud woop as the tide of battle shifts and it becomes clear to even him the fight is over. The elation on his face quickly drops as he looks at the smoldering ruins of the camp. The dead and dying around him. He calls out "Does anyone need healing? And I mean anyone, the battle is over there's no need for anymore hostility." He turns towards the individuals who surrended "cooperate with us and I can save some of your friends, and telling us what we need to know will make your day in court easier. Everyone who dies here will be laid at your feet." (Looking to run around and heal anyone I can, if possible I'd prioritize the bandit I shot, UNW forces, then any other bandits. But people in critical need get first, ya know like a triage kinda thing).

(Yep, makes sense, they'd set up a casualty collection point away from the camp a bit for both sides anyway, they want to take them into custody)

3:24 PM

The bandit is wounded, and you manage to stabilize him, though you're warned against making him too healthy, as he might resist or try to run.

(Yeah just looking to use level 0 biopsionic to stabalize people, will use level 1 on any UNW people, after that I'll move to interrogate survivors with Ferrous assuming he is doing that. Also should I level now or just wait until this is all resolved) (edited)

(Go ahead and level now. We are at an interlude of things )

(I think I'm good/close to good so we can keep Rollin)

(I want to convert to the spreadsheet before I level up, and I'll likely have questions since it's my first leveling. I'm okay continuing story unleveled until I find time to get it done, if that's not a problem)

8:31 PM

(don't wanna hold things up cause I'm a procrastinator)

(sounds good, just note you have a level up)

8:16 AM

By morning, the camp is a smoking ruin and the prisoners are set on their knees outside the returned assault shuttle that brought the spec ops here. Interrogation is being planned for eachof them to figure out why they were here and what they were doing, and trials will surely follow as they're squarely implicated in at least two murders.

Lamarck stands next to Ferrous, he yawns loudly as the high of the battle begins to fade. "Wow, that escalated quickly. Feels like just a few hours ago we were sitting in a bar and now.... This" He gestures at the remains of the camp. "We did good here, we didn't come any closer to accomplishing our mission but this has gotta be some good karma right?" He flashes a toothy smile to his Geon friend. "Should we grab our ride and maybe rest up before we head on. Grab some ammo. I think we've done our part here.... Actually should we ask one of these guys? They've been out here longer than us. Maybe they might have an inkling? Or we go tell our treehouse friends the neighbors have been. " He takes of his glasses dramatically "Rocked

️"

(hahahaha Take a re-roll token for that. We can keep going here, as I don't think Ferrous is in the space battle)

Ferrous stares blankly at Lamarck after his final remark, attempting not to bely his bemusement. damn that was good. He picks up the laser painter and holds it in front of himself performatively. "yeah that's what painting is, and I am a maestro", clearly feeling boastful after blowing a truck to kingdom come and pinging a runner with his pistol. "I should get one of these myself..." his voice trails wistfully for a moment before returning to the grisly scene in contrast with his upbeat disposition. Ferrous takes stock of all that Lamarck actually said. Incredulously he spouts "Are we just gonna leave interrogation to these guys?! I'll have you know, that's how I got my surname. They have information on the disappeared explorers, certainly!" He takes a few solemn steps towards Lamarck, making clear he wants his companion to take this to heart. "please, can we interrogate these jags" A step "we risked so much" A step "we can't just" A step "leave it behind" A step "you and me" A final amplified step, nearly nose to nose with Lamarck now. He clenches and shakes an underhand fist enthusiastically, much like one would if in celebration. "WE" placing emphasis on the pronoun, "can bring this to a close". He repeats louder "WE" grabbing his shoulder with a solid stony grip "will solve this mystery". Ferrous's intense eyes meet Lamarck's glass less gaze from but a few inches away, urging him not to run back to the vehicle and leave this behind.

Lamarck sputters "I... I mean we... Well... Professional... You make good points... Ah... Ahem." He takes a moment to collect himself under Ferrous' stoney stare. He backs away slightly but keeps trying his best to maintain eye contact even as his eyes flit away then back. "Yes, you're right. This was our job, and we should see it through." He gestures in the direction of the prisoners. "Let's see how you got that name." He walks towards the group of bandits. "Who here is in charge? Or at least who is in charge of those not feeding the plants yet." He tries to stand up straight, his best impression of Ferrous he can muster as he looks each prisoner in the eye. His glasses shake ever so slightly in his hand but he does his best to stifle this by holding the glasses Into his side.

The prisoner at the very end of the line has been singled out as the next person in charge, and is unceremoniously pushed out of formation with his fellow prisoners to face plant into the mud in front of you. (edited)

Lamarck glances slowly down the line, taking one last look at each prisoner before he gets to leader. He tchs his tongue and shakes his head. "That'll have to do then." He waits for the man to lift his face out of the mud then drags him away from the group, as he leaves he calls back "Better figure out whose next in charge while I'm gone, I don't want to wait when I'm done here." (Just wanna drag him somewhere a bit secluded, at least out of eyeshot and earshot of his compatriots. Ferrous I'll let you do the next part since that seesm more up your skillset) (edited)

The marines continue getting everything from the camp sorted out, and make you promise not to lose this one before turning a blind eye to whatever it is you plan to do out in the brush.

Ferrous looks a bit stunned at how well his speech seemed to work, especially given that Lamarck seemed to be implying the prisoner was about to be killed. He quickly recovers as he prepares for the interrogation. Once the trio have moved a safe distance from the camp, Ferrous kicks the back of the prisoners knees causing him to collapse onto the forest floor. He grabs him by the restraints and pulls him up again. "I'm supposed to be retired" he breathes the words right into his face. "Historically I don't enjoy these conversations, but when the dirtbag demands it, I'm willin' to oblige". He pushes him face first against a tree. "SO why don't you oblige me, or, you'll find yourself between a rock", Ferrous's palm menacingly grasps his head and pushes it firmly against the bark, "and a hard place." He turns the bandit about and kneels to bring himself even to the form sitting against the tree. "Let's start easy: did your group ambush a pair of explorers in the past couple days? And do you know anything about tribes or other groups living out here in the wilderness? don't even have to be anyone livin' in the woods! I'm flexible"

"We did ambush them, yes. Wanted the vehicle, must have hit something inside, went up like a fireball"

(I'm just watching, sorry if that wasn't clear, Lamarck doesn't wanna do this kinda thing)

Lamarck stares at Ferrous' hand tightens into a fist, he hurries forward and puts himself between the two. Looking straight into Ferrous' eyes he whispers "we can do dangerous police, peaceful police. You be dangerous." He turns and kneels down to the bandit. "Thank you for telling the truth, were you just stealing for creds or did you have some other intent? If you help us we can make note of your cooperation, as the current leader I wouldnt be surprised if the court wants to make an example of you. A good word could easily be years. A few good words, well years do add up quickly" He tries to act cool and examine his fingernails as he waits for a response but his glasses slip off his face and onto the ground. (edited)

“We wanted the credits and the vehicle , but we didn’t get either. City life hasn’t suited us” he says, and looks to be telling the truth, their operation not looking to be any more nefarious than banditry , and the previous explorers being in the wrong place at the wrong time. (edited)

"Excellent, now that we've established you can tell the truth we can have a further discussion. What can you tell us about groups in the surrounding area? You didn't have these woods to yourself did you? Or did you kill everyone nearby too?" (I'm looking for them to confirm/deny about the hippies and use that as a gauge of if I can trust them. Fishing for info about the lost tribe too.)

Ferrous seems to have regained his composure after losing himself in his anger at the wanton violence of the bandits. He leans against the tree, staring down at his captive, emitting a consistent low growl. "Go on, tell him what he wants to know..." trailing off threateningly and rubbing a shower of bark from his hand down onto the bandit's head

"Some nature folks over the ridge, not sure where exactly we are right now, but they're in the woods too. Haven't really been over that way too much after meeting them, there were other things going on in camp"

"That's not what we asked!" punching the tree firmly (I realize he was answering the correct question, Ferrous is trying to disorient him and establish he's a bit unstable), showering dirt and leaves anew onto the captive. He nudges Lamarck out of the way, acknowledging he doesn't really want to be involved here. "Answer me the right way this time! have you ever seen anyone that looks like me around out here? Rocky exterior? Isolationist?" He bends at the knees, in a catcher like pose on his toes "last chance to tell me what I want, or we go deeper in the woods..." he nods at Lamarck "without. Him" (edited)

“Once. Almost didn’t believe it. About a hundred kilometers north of here by the mountains “

9:39 PM

“Thought for sure I had too much trance or ate something that didn’t agree with me. Guess I didn’t “

Lamarck watches at first trying to pretend to be worried about the bandit then actually becoming worried. At the mention of the location he sits up straight and takes his glasses off, looking surprised then smiling as he watches for Ferrous reaction.

"right" Ferrous gives the bandit a powerful right hook, knocking him out. He turns to Lamarck, "you up for a little mountain getaway? Bunch of Geon can't be worse than this guy right? Hehe it's not like they're avoiding outsiders for a reason". A dark smirk returns to Ferrous's face as he teases his nervous partner. The reddish geon positions himself next to the unconscious bandit and bends down, letting out a soft grunt as he hefts the dead weight onto his shoulders. "We'll put this sucker back with the others then be on our way. Did you want to let the uh..." he motions as if smoking an invisible joint "hippies know we cleared things up on our way out, or not? I know you've got a soft spot"

(We've got their comm frequency if you want to text their settlement, if that helps make it less of a time-cost decision)

Lamarck gasps 'Oh my..." As the stoney fist avalanches into the bandits jaw. At the mention of soft spot he jerks back to reality. "I don't have a soft spot! One of us had to be nice! But yes I'll text them while you bring that one back to the flock' ''' Hello members of tree house place. This is Lamarck, we met yesterday. Unfortunately things do not go well with the rowdy bunch of individuals but they are now in custody. Apologies for the disturbance to you and the forest but they should no longer be a nuisance. I will endeavor to return and get more information about the forest but important work keeps me from visiting. Thank you for you help. Lamarck, UNW Explorer ''' "Let's rock and roll" (edited)

(I appreciate that the implication of your joke is that, you are a roll. And ferrous notes it.) "alright you've shared your feelings, let's move on" he jokes at Lamarck. Ferrous begins walking back to the soldiers' camp. "we return him and then get in our truck and go north. You agree?" (unless something happens or Lamarck has something, willing to ffwd dropping off bandit and grabbing truck to drive north)

(D10 as we head north

D10

10:50 AM

(fuck I'm an idiot) !roll 1d10 (Is dice maiden broken again or am I a seriously massive idiot, the attempted dice roll in this post is unedited) (edited)

!roll 1d10 !sorryforsomanypingsneko

Ferrous Bullier Roll: [10] Result: 10 Reason: sorryforsomanypingsneko

(It was broken earlier in the week but the post for the roller has to be its own thing. The bot isn’t sensitive enough to pick it out from other wording or from edits )

9:12 AM

Heading north you come to the region just before where the geon were sighted and it comes to a rolling region of stone covered hills and tall pine like trees. The warnings about the trees on Gudrun begin appearing on your monitor

(https://www.worldanvil.com/w/iron-stars-nekosmash/a/spore-trees-article these guys?)

Spore Trees

(yep!)

(a couple questions, first Utan's can negate one environmental affect at dms disgression these seem pretty nasty but gotta swing to hit the ball. Second do Geons breath the same way? Like are they... Wet inside? And finally do we have atmofilters in the truck? Which will negate my other two questions!)

(there are filters in the truck. I think this is a pretty virulent condition, so we wouldn't be able to quite negate it, and I think in the same way moss clings to rock, this would probably bother a Geon too)

Lamarck takes of his glasses and squints at the warning. "Trees... Spores... Lungs? Moisture?!" He jumps to the door and quickly closes the window. "Ferrous close your window the spores mess up your lungs! Wait... Do you have lungs? Do you have moisture? How does non-carbon based life work? Wait are you carbon based? Or silicon? I read a thing once about silicon based life, it has a similar structure to carbon you know, it's actually interesting they say the elements work out that way. You see alot of an element is based in it's valence electron structure... Wait the window close it! I'll grab some atmofilters just... Hold your breath?" (Cool beans, now very curious about Geon biology/geology)

Ferrous has no hesitation at self protection and begins slamming windows left and right. (by virulent condition, can the truck protect us with its standard filters or are we feeling impacts within?)

(the truck will protect you, but in the likely event you'll need to dismount in the really rugged country ahead at some point, you'll have to don filters)

"I wonder how they survive with spores in the air? Could they have adapted to the inhospitable environment?" directing the science question at Lamarck. "I don't see how they could alter their bodies... It doesn't seem feasible to maintain a supply of individual filters either." Ferrous contemplates for a few minutes (literally) in complete silence, shaking his head vigorously whenever it appeared Lamarck might begin to speak. He gasps loudly as if he had received revelation from a higher power. " I think we press on. They may live on the opposite side of these trees, or there may be a protected enclave with a suitable environment". After shutting down Lamarck before he now sits expectantly, awaiting input from his more scientifically inclined partner. (is it like trees as far as the eye can see, or a collection of trees but the edgr is visible)

Lamarck's eyes light up at the question. "Truthfully I don't know, but I do have guesses! Maybe the trees don't go all the way up the mountain? Maybe they have a special organ that filters the spores? Perhaps an enzyme that destroys the spore in the windpipe before it reaches the lungs? Maybe even they have excess moisture in their bodies to compensate! But either way we should be safe with these, I went to a swamp on a dying planet and it blocked out the gases of a dying planet so I think I can stop spores!"

The filters are uncomfortable and the eye pieces mist a bit with the humidity of warm breath on cold glass, but for the moment they seem to be holding and you are able to fill your lungs with as much of the local air as you need to keep going.

"Hopefully these hold up as we move into the forest, but for now we can probably just stay in the truck. I assume these will keep working, but if the pollens get thicker we should be brainful of the filters." Lamarck hops back into the truck satisfied the filters will be sufficient for now. (I'm good to keep driving until we get closer to the mountains)

(One more d10)

!roll 1d10 !going places

Lamarck Roll: [3] Result: 3 Reason: going places

Heading north the ground becomes rugged and you’re forced to park after a few kilometers of heavy upland driving through the thick forest. You begin looking through the vehicle screens to see what is around you when you pan over to a tumble ruin of stones stacked like a Carin, but far more precise in nature. This is the last place the series of previous explorers were seen, and from here on their trail goes cold.

"Hey Ferrous, I don't want to sound... Insensitive but is that a you know... A rock people thing? Stacking rocks up? A Geon thing I mean. You are made of rock but... Not a rock person. A Geon." He tries to smile as he stammers. "That sounded bad, but you know what I meant. Sorry. Ahem. Does that rock formation have any meaning to you? And not because you're a rock... Geon. It does not have any meaning to me as an individual who happens to be Utan." He sinks back in his chair avoiding eye contact with his rock person friend. (edited)

rock person thing, what the hell does he mean rock person th... Ferrous cuts his own thought short as he spots the faux cairn. Having not spent much time in traditional Geon company, he had no idea if that was normal, or ritualistic or heathen. Lamarck doesn't know that though "rock people! What do you mean rooock people?! Rock and stone!! " the words come out with maximum incredulity. He begins to stand from his seat and move as with purpose toward Lamarck. He halts himself quickly and waits to enjoy the embarrassed Utan's reaction. Ferrous reseats himself, and the truck settles from all the shifting of Ferrous's considerable mass. "It's alright, but maybe you stick to Geon in the future." a playful malice glints in his eye. "That being what it is, I have no idea. Grew up in the city mostly away from Geon society. We should be careful from here out though, cause someone had to stack them". He stands and reaches for mask filters, handing one to Lamarck. "And us rock folk sure have an affinity for..." as he straps the mask onto his face "rocks." He taps his mask with the barrel end of his pistol, indicating Lamarck should don his as well. "safety first"

(did you want to investigate the Carin? )

(yeah let's go ahead) After gesturing to Lamarck, Ferrous hops down to the gravelly path with a crunch and heads carefully towards the cairn.

Watching Ferrous hop out of the car Lamarck hastily dons his mask and hops out of the truck. "Isn't a major tenet of gun safety not to point the gun at... You know what nevermind. Let's take a look at this structured mineral structure?" The mask strains under what you can tell is his overlarge smile." (Investigation time)

This reminds you of a burial site. There is writing here, something Ferrous feels like he has a half remembered connection to. It is angular, but somehow also elegant, and the words are blurry, almost as though you are seeing them through clear water and slowly solidify. This is the resting place of a hero, and explorer, someone who was not part of the tribe, but was a respected individual to those in it. (edited)

(just to clarify is this thing knocked over or does it seem to be in it's proper form right now?)

(It has for sure taken the elements for a while but no one has deliberately come and kicked anything over)

Lamarck realizes that this is a solem place, his smile drops as he watches Ferrous examine the writing. "Do you recognize any of it? It feels, important this is somewhere special. I wonder why its all the way out here..."

(it def looks like a grave site of somekind)

Lamarck leans down next to Ferrous, who is engrossed in trying to decipher the writing. He squints at the writing then looks back up. "I think you've got a better shot than I do at figuring that out. I'm going to look around for any clues. If you get stuck let me know." Lamarck stands up and looks around the gravesite for any other text or symbols. Failing that he looks for a path from the gravesite, an indication this place is visited.

There is a loose stamped area of pathing going up the meandering rocks around you, into the foothills to your east.

Lamarck taps Ferrous on the shoulder. "Look theres a footpath! That must mean someones gotta be closeby, at least often enough that the ground gets beaten down. Any luck on that writing? If you don't figure it out soon, we might just wanna head up there and ask them to read it! Maybe you should go first, they might not be used to... individuals with fur?"

Something swirls in Ferrous's eyes as he sees the writing on the rock formation. He becomes disconnected from the world, his concentration split between his own mind and his surroundings. He struggles to lock into the writing, like a dust speck in the eye that darts away once you focus on it. A vague shadowy figure sweeps around him, occasionally echoing unintelligible murmurs. Thoughts come to him seemingly at random this is a place of honor He is aware of his near fugue state, but observes himself as spectator why here speak to me He urges the writing to come together with coherencr explain yourself A tap shocks him awake, falling on his ass, drawing his pistol as the shadow comes into focus. Lamarck appears before him, his murmurs becoming intelligent discourse "... with fur?" He scrambles to his feet, trying to recover his dignity. what the absolute FUCK was that "uh yeah, a.. a path." he coughs and resets himself, shaking his head to clear the metaphysical as well as the physical. "yeah, yeah I'll lead." his pistol is reholstered as he makes a steady heading towards the trodden path. He continues to look for signs of recent activity, but makes a conscious effort to avoid the rock formation and keep its writings out of his gaze. (edited)

(Notice/wis)

!roll 3d6k2 +1 !lookinatpath

Ferrous Bullier Roll: [6, 6, 1] Result: 13 Reason: lookinatpath

There are prints here. They are deep and it looks like something with a very heavy tread has come this way recently. Ferrous can see there are three distinct sets of prints here, and they look much like his own.

Lamarck watches Ferrous lead on shaking off something. He grimaces to himself but ultimately decides to follow, as they start walking Lamarck eventually notices that tracks and Ferrous' footsteps match. This might get heavy for him, I can't imagine not knowing anyone like you. I have my whole family... who has he had? His gun?

The pace slows as Ferrous takes stock of their surroundings. His foot lifts slowly, and is deliberately lowered next to a deep print in the surface. The rocky figure leans back in a way to give a better view to anyone behind, leaving his foot in place he indicates to Lamarck. " d'zat look similar to you?" His pulse quickens as he knows the answer to his own question. It is rhetorical, but he needs confirmation, his eyes can't be trusted not after the writing near the cairn. His face does not betray his apprehension, Lamarck cannot know how affected he was by his recent experience. I've seen worse in battle than a few words and his brow furrows as he becomes emboldened with his displacement from the disorienting visions.

Lamarck leans foward, taking off his glasses to examine the tracks. "They look... very similar. Do you think we might be getting close? He takes a bit longer to examine the older track trying to get some idea as to the age. As he studies the track and without looking up. "This must be excting right? Finally getting to meet someone that looks like you?" He's long done with the track but continues to study it intently while waiting.

This is beginning to feel like something of home for Ferrous, a nagging ghost of familiarity growing in power with each passing second.

Their trek continues, but Ferrous becomes increasingly wary. Had he been here before? rarely left the city since I left the service... And certainly wasn't here Thoughts intrude on his own, returning from the episode at the gravesite why here He presses onward, unwilling to show Lamarck something is affecting him. welcome... His vision blurs momentarily, and he stumbles. Regaining his balance, he believes he is hiding his symptoms, but he may as well be exiting a grungy dive after a long night. A drunken waltz carries him forward, 2 steps forward, 1 step left, 1 step back, 2 hops this time, hands on his knees as he takes a breather. His steps become labored and intentional. left foot... Let's... stomp An attempt to steady himself and then right foot... he waves his companion along "let's..." stomp He stutters, struggles to form words, but his utterances are nonsense "ch... cha cha" he looks at Lamarck's now shadowy figure as if expecting a coherent response to his fully formed remarks. As they near the end of the path, Ferrous must surrender to this imperious force of familiarity, and collapses to the ground. (edited)

As Ferrous falls, there is a rumbling in the ground and seven Geon who look much like him emerge from their tunnels, armed with crude looking rifles and crossbows, all leveled in your direction.

Time slows down as adrenaline surges through his body, watching Ferrous fall as the other Geon rise. I have to check him quickly but without getting us both killed, here we go He slides to the right, getting next to Ferrous on the ground. He quickly crosses his hands and puts them on Ferrous' back, trying to use his limited ability to heal whatever is wrong with Ferrous (Psychich Succor, just to make sure hes not dead) As soon as he feels the tingling in his fingers end he hops back twice for good measure. He holds up his hands. "Help us! Help him at least! Don't cha know he needs help!"

(Just gonna see what Ferrous does)

The rumbling and yelling and overall chaos is enough to waken Ferrous just beyond comatose. He makes out the now familiar hazy shadow of his companion, but as his head swivels 7 new shadows have now appeared. nothing good... has... ever come of that... He returns his gaze to the lonesome figure and laboriously crawls in his direction In a piss poor attempt to warn the Utan of new trouble he manages to utter "look.... Look Look... O....... Oooo... Look" and loosely waves one hand behind him as the other is used to inch along the ground

"Our healer may be able to help them" one of the Geon says to Lamarck, "And you'll have to come with us, without your weapons"

Lamarck looks between the struggling Ferrous and the Geons. "Of course, please just try to help him. He seemed fine a few minutes ago." Lamarck moves slowly but with purpose as he removes his rifle and places it on the ground in front of him. He also removes a small knife he had hidden in his boot and tosses it gently next to the rifle. He backs a pace away and keeps his hands up ready to follow further orders. His eyes continue to flit between Ferrous and the group. "Please... I'll do whatever you want just hurry."

(If you're complying I can write a bgger scene here as we get into the city and whatnot)

(As long as I perceive they're helping/ trying to help Ferrous I'm complying fully)

(They are concerned for a fellow geon certainly. Ferrous I'm not sure what you were going for here, if I'm stepping on your toes let me know, and I can roll this back, I don't want to do a bunch of exposition on you)

(exposit me. I think we're roughly on the same page. Started doing the visions to create an explanation for why I was sitting there while Lamarck explored, then I just kept with it)

The city below the mountain has a name. Lamarck tried several times to speak it but the words don’t seem to come. There are thousands of homes dig into the caves here and this is an extensive network of caverns underneath the spine of the world mountain range on Gudrun. The Geon are secretive and quiet , only having the rudiments of technology consisted too of the line in the Victorian age of old earth. They have the black powder and coal fire machines without the wigs and powders to go with it. It looks like some kind of shamans lodge is your destination rather than a hospital, Jade and obsidian fetishes have been strung from thick rope and jingle outside the hut as Ferrous is brought inside. Lamarck is asked to remain outside and given an escort for the moment to keep an eye on him as the rescue force takes a collective breath out.

6:43 AM

Overhead the bioluminescent fungus coats the ceiling of the chamber, creating light.

Lamarck sits outside the hut, taking in the spectacle before him. In a way it reminds him of home, a simpler place in a way without the whirrs, buzz and glow of technology. But the lack of technology doesn't mean lack of innovation. He takes in the majesty of an underground kingdom before turning to his guard? Attendant? He wasn't sure. "Thank you for helping my friend. This place is astounding. If I may ask how many live here? It's huge! How did I not know about this place?"

The world flutters into existence as Ferrous's eyes blink open, regaining consciousness. A Geon adorned in jewels and figurines carved of glinting stones is muttering and seems to be issuing orders to another handful of Geon hustling around the eerily illuminated interior. When not bustling about, the others would stand reverently behind the apparent leader's shoulders, awaiting their next instruction. don't seem to be ill intentioned, for now Then his reality really begins to come together in his mind. w... Where the fuck "AM I?" His body catches up to his brain and he exclaims the end of his thought. The bejeweled Geon's eyes widen as he acknowledges Ferrous is awake, but continues their muttering. He bolts upright, taking in the oddly decorated tent in which he was imprisoned? Treated? Brainwashed? Who knows what they're doing to me Instinct and years of cynical caution force him to reach for his nonexistent holster. He pats his hip to confirm his disappointment. The fire of a forge lights behind his eyes. taking a person weapon less, how dare they "where have you brought me?! What are you doing to me? STOP THAT MUTTERING". His fiery resolute gaze is met with a mixture of surprised and concerned looks in equal measure. something is still missing... * He looks around again, trying to find his missing partner. "Where's my pistol too?" Another few moments of silence frustrate him further and he slams his rocky fists into the makeshift stretcher on which he sits. "My weeeeaaapooon" he exaggerates his words, unsure if they understand. As he goes to stand, he remembers one final detail, and turns back to the leader. "oh yeah, have you seen a... Furryish... Uh apey looking guy? Might be wearing glasses? Asking questions about customs?" Ferrous shrugs *he's probably alright

Lamarck sits outside, talking quietly with the Geon, prying for answers he may or may not get. When he begins to hear shuffling inside . Only a few words can be heard. "AM I?..... STOP THAT MUTTERING..... MY Weeeeeeaaappon..." Lamarck shakes his head, someone is feeling better He thanks the geon for the company and pokes his head inside. "Feeling better? Thank you again for saving my friend, what do you think was wroing with him? And your city is amazing! Please tell us more if you would!" (edited)

They have seen you, and for now you;re all being held in the home of the tribal shaman while some decision is made what to do with you. The Geon here do not seem exceptionally forthcoming with information at the moment.

Lamarck sits with Ferrous. "What happened to you? Also did you get a look at this place? It's huge!" He leans a little closer and whispers "Not the friendliest, at least not to me. Maybe they'll take a shine to you. Either way I don't think they know what to do with us."

It looks as though the shaman has remained behind with two guards while the rest of the team has gone off to summon whoever must be summoned.

Lamarck directs his attention to the shaman. "I don't mean to be rude, and we really do appreciate the help... But we've been sent on a diplomatic mission of sorts to find.... This place. I recognize that may members of the surface world are not... Good individuals but if you give us a chance we are part of the United Nations of Worlds and our goal is to bring peace and equality to all worlds and peoples... Including yours" (edited)

"Oh, yer here! Have you seen my pistol? They might be lookers, but they don't have the gift of gab like I have." Ferrous turns to glare at the shaman leader "unless it's utter NONSENSE". As gentle as a creature of his density can muster, Ferrous hops off the stretcher. The tent shakes briefly in response. "No I haven't looked outside yet, just woke up with these guys running around muttering." Ferrous becomes visibly uncomfortable, stammering a bit and speaking in a low tone. "and you... Are alive. That's... We're both alive, so... Yes" he didn't notice a thing Swiftly changing the subject as he makes a prompt heel turn, speaking to the other Geon in the tent at large. "Like he said, we're from the United Nations of Worlds. We have come here in peace, and in search of explorers lost before us. You all seem friendly enough, I'm sure as diplomats of the UNW we can extend an offer to bring you into the fold. Resources, protection, so on." Again silence. I've heard of stone faced but this is ridiculous "then... Thanks for the hospitality, we're going to get on our way and have a look around" He grabs Lamarck's shoulder and guides him brusquely towards the tent opening.

Lamarck protests as he is dragged along. "Uhhh.... Ummm. Well I don't think. You see I don't know this but .. well I don't think they.... Want us to... Go.... Like I mean... They want us to stay here, at least for now...soo maybe we should stay here?"

"You cannot leave" the shaman says "We have questions, and you will answer them. Then, we will determine your fate. There have been others before you, and none have measured up"

An abrupt halt kicks up a cloud from the rocky floor underneath their feet. "none have measured up? Is that what you did to whoever's grave is sitting out front?" Ferrous takes a sure step forward, his confidence evident in his stride, but yet to be seen if it is deserved in this situation. "Yer the only Geon tribe, or group or clan, whatever, that I've met before. And I would like to learn more of my own heritage, but I can't get on board with killin folks cause you don't like how they talk." He gestures animatedly at Lamarck "you don't see me smashing on ol' glasses here when he starts talkin nerdy." He proceeds, ignoring any protests Lamarck may exhibit. "why couldn't you just let folks go? They don't have to stay in your supposedly big mountain city that you won't even let me take a look at" the words are expelled from his mouth faster than Ferrous can properly control them. The combination of anger and the adrenaline from meeting a society of Geon were rushing to his head. "And what's with that writing? Why do I recognize it, but I can't read it? Do you know what's wrong with me? Why did I... Take a... Uh. voluntary nap... upon reaching your lands?" his volume elevates while his speech quickens. He again involuntarily feels for his pistol, a fruitless search that pushes him further. "So ask your questions already, measure us! We won't so easily become another gravesite to lure in the curious!" He breathes heavily, raggedy, panting after his brash remarks. Ferrous might have gone on but he began to tire, and had just woken, and missed the comfort of his holstered pistol.

"The only Geon tribe on Gudrun, you're correct. You're one of us, and you're home, but we have survived this long because we have remained hidden. Integrating with the world means inheriting its problems, too, and we have done that once before long in our ancient past. "

one of them... Psh... Ferrous relaxes a bit. "This may be the home of my ancestors, but it is not my home. Despite our diplomatic intent, I'm beginning to fear you may not let us return to the world above. Its definitely not his home" pointing at Lamarck. "So, like I said, ask your questions. But if I don't like them, I assure you we will be leaving regardless of your opinion"

Lamarck's eyes bulge during the back and forth. His fur gives way to beads of sweat as he listens to the exchange. Occasionally he opens his mouth to speak but Ferrous has scorched past his objections so that he's left jawing. As Ferrous finishes his statement and points at Lamarck he finally 'gets his tongue back from the cat'. "Ahem yes what my colleague is trying to say is that well ummm. Well you see overall he's really right but then umm ah well actually. I certainly am not from here." He sighs. Takes of his glasses and cleans them. Looking through them with one eye at a distance. He finally puts them back on and let's out an even larger sigh. "Not how I would have worded it. But yes, ask us the questions but know I... No. We have important work to do and cannot and will not be detained here. "

"The world above, where do you both come from, and what do you do there? What is your role in those societies? " he begins, asking a general question first.

Lamarck quickly starts, cutting Ferrous off. "My name is Lamarck. I come from Terezinho, where my family is now and where my people, the Utan originated. I've been sent out on a mission to collect samples of all different kinds of life. So I guess... I'd say I'm part researcher but I also get sent to a lot of places that are far away which means I end up being an explorer as well. At least I will be, I'm fairly new to all of this honestly. I work under the United Nations of Worlds, the UNW for short. They help me with my work and in turn I help them with their goal of helping rebuild worlds after the scream. Feels odd to just lay out my entire life like that but that's probably a fair summary. The UNW helped raise my people up and for that I owe them a great debt."

He nods, waiting to see how Ferrous has accounted for his time away from what is being called his home.

"Don't remember much before the Scream. Always figured my family had no need for me. Made a life in the Center. Learned a tidbit here or there from a rare encounter with other Geon on the streets. Picked up the name Ferrous somewhere along the way." he clears his throat before continuing. "Don't know if it was more that I wanted or I needed a 'clan' of my own, figured I could find it in the ranks of the UNW military, they'd take anyone pretty much. That plan didn't exactly work out, but I fought plenty a battles against the fleshshapers, guess fates decided I deserved to come out the other side, but not sure I agree with them. Now I spend my time taking oddjobs and investigative work around the Center. UNW came callin' for someone with my skillset and... genes... To look for a missing Geon explorer. Seemed like a nice vacation from hunting stolen hoverbikes and turning away thugs asking for muscle. " (edited)

11:11 AM

(I'm realizing my lore knowledge is limited, would there have been enough in world time to grow up in Center?) (edited)

(5 years at least since Post Scream)

11:35 AM

(you might not remember what you did before but there's been enough time for you to have a life now)

(cool, made some small edits)

"A soldier, yes that does fit your bearing. Well done, and well said. You fought the shapers, we heard a bit about them from others who had come here. You honor the clan with your defense of those who could not defend themselves. I must ask you something else then, what do you know of a Geon called Silvanodi? "

Lamarck shrugs. "An old friend of yours Ferrous? I think he was an old UNW agent, before my time" (Would anything in his thread be ic knowledge? I've skimmed it)

(Yeah we'd know the high points from UNW briefs of his missions before he went missing)

Lamarck puts a finger to his chin. "I think I remember reading about him somewhere. He saved a great sea beast from needless harm. And then again saved some scouts. The reports indicate he was last seen somewhere around here..." Lamarck trails off on the last thought, maybe for the first time feeling the prick of fear since they had entered this place.

"Indeed , he came here with another, and they threatened to "expose" us to the UNW, and the rest of the galaxy. The picture they painted is that our minerals and wealth could be used to fuel the war machine of the UNW, and others. And we will not have this for our people"

Lamarck frowns, his brow deepens as he takes in the situation. "I see, and I now have a better understanding of your precautions. I'm not sure what I can say to convince you otherwise but our goal is not to pillage your people's heritage. Our aim was simply to make contact and begin a dialogue between our two groups." He looks nervously towards Ferrous but swallows dryly before he makes makes eye contact with the shaman "We've found that time and time again cooperation leads to more for everyone. Your minerals and wealth are yours to do with what you will. We will not take them from you, in fact we will defend this planet and you from those that would take them from you.... I implore you to look beyond your mountain. For it is not so large compared to this planet. And this planet is just one small piece of this galaxy. You can stay down here and I hope we can protect you from everything evil out there. But I won't lie to you after... Things changed... We need more good people to help us. I've seen Ferrous. If he is any representation of your ilk we could use you, not for your minerals but for the.... Hearts? That beat inside you. Like it or not you're a part of this galaxy, and we need every bit of good we can get, at least I believe I see good here." Lamarck realizes he's sweating and rubs his forehead. He takes of his glasses and begins to wipe those off. "Respectfully sir..." He adds a clear afterthought after Getting carried away.

(talk/cha. at +2)

(4)

"I believe that you believe that, but our experience interacting in our ancient past has shown us differently." The shaman says, and there is a knock at the door. "Ah, at last. The elders will see you now. I will accompany you of course as I also have a seat on that esteemed council. "

Ferrous smirks before they are led out. He knows Lamarck is more diplomatic, plus seeing a little sweat on his brow never darkened Ferrous's day. Coarsely, he breaks his silence. "Well I don't know what they thought they were doing comin' down here and demanding this or that from you but that's not how the UNW operates. You regard my defense of the defenseless so honorably, I'm only one grunt with poor interpersonal skills." a little laugh at his own joke, as he is prone to do. Towards Lamarck, but clearly wanting his remarks absorbed by the room, he resumes "let's go meet the rest of these elders, maybe they can be convinced of the good their people can do in this galaxy." As they exit he leans toward the shaman one last time "so about my pistol, could I get that returned... Or...? It's kind of important to me"

'Should you be released, it will be given to you upon your exit from the cave system. We also have some personal effects of the departed previous team. You should understand..." the elder says, taking a long moment to breathe. "They threatened us, they wanted us only as we related to a war machine in the wider universe. We could not have our people and our sacred mines used this way"

Lamarck bites his lips and addresses the shaman. "We can discuss the past when we are done with the present. " He turns to Ferrous " I am sorry about your gun, I know it's important to you, we'll get it back in it's holster soon, we just gotta convince a hold society to go against their whole history real quick!" He allows himself to be ushered to the council, smiling to himself at the absurdity of the situation.

Two geon elders, a large crystal with glowing eyes ,and the medicine man type geon form the tribal council and guards seat you somewhat roughly on two stone stools before them, possibly carved just for the occasion. You see no evidence anyone had ever been in this chamber before. The room is warm due to the close proximity to the geothermal heat.

Only two of them? I would've thought at least three, how do they break ties? What a strange system of governance Lamarck takes the room in and after realizing this is all the attendees he bows to elders. "Thank you for taking the time to meet with us, we hope that our discussion here can benefit all denizens of this planet. I am Lamarck, and my friend here is Ferrous. We come representing the United Nations of Worlds, I was... Disappointed to hear about how your last meeting went and hope I can rectify their wrongs. " He awkwardly bows again, causing his glasses to fall onto the floor. The clatter fills the room and a tink of breaking glass causes Lamarck's eyes to widen. He begins trying to recover the pieces on the ground.

"Well received Lamarck , and your friend, does he speak and have a name?"

"He does, Ferrous is his name. He's distraught over being separated from his weapon. He is a mighty warrior and it is a part of him. What can we do for you?"

"We would like to know what you have planned, now that you have found us "

"Our plan was to have a discussion with you, we would like you to make contact with the outside world if possible but we understand now why you have hesitated. But our intention is not to take your mountain home for ourselves or the riches of the mountain itself. We want to help your people, and in turn maybe your people will help us. There is much to be gained from collaboration. My own people were brought onto this galactic stage by the UNW, we had nothing to offer them at that time. We were by all definitions primitives but they helped us step forward. I now seek to pay that favor forward by helping your people take a bold step onto the same stage. Of course at a pace and under terms that are comfortable for your people. I believe one day your people will help others as I seek to help you today. That is the mission of the UNW"

"What was uplift like for your people, and did everyone in society think it was a good thing once it was done? You said there are few of you among the stars"

Lamarck pauses. The pause turns into a long silence. He stares at a spot on the floor for a while before he finally takes a deep breath. "I won't lie to you. The transition was a tumultuous time for our people. You see before the uplift we didn't have what you would call language. We could communicate at a base level and we felt a full range of emotions but looking back on it now we were simply put.. simple. That all changed very quickly as the uplift started. " Lamarck gestures around the room and points out into city. "Imagine thrusting yourselves forward in evolution. I'm not sure how long the Geon have been around but I imagine all of this happening within days. We gained intelligence rapidly. All of the sudden we realized basic things. For starters we were naked. Things like fire were discovered in the same day and suddenly the nests we had happily lived in for our entire lives became a pile of leaves on the ground. We understood the concept of shelter, housing, jobs, currency, economics, morality. Generations of evolution in a single generation. For some it was an enlightenment, so much to learn and see and do. A truly unmatched Renaissance of culture and technology. He stops. And takes of his glasses, examine the cracks in them. For others with this knowledge came the knowledge of pain, betrayal, greed, jealousy. Crime! Cheating, dishonesty. All those elements of society that make lives harder. All at once." He holds up the cracked glasses, and twists them so the crack catches the light. (edited)

10:38 AM

"In our clarity we saw the cracks, the flaws, and division. But worse then all that we were forced to confront death in a societal level. Not everyone could handle it. Some had to find ways to cope with the pain, others simply became numb. Others reverted to a lower stage of development in order to save their psyches from being cracked wide open. I won't lie to you, there were hard times and there are hard times still ahead. To this day some Utan's wield this new intelligence in order to argue for a return to how we used to be. They point to wars and destruction and say intelligent life is a blight upon the galaxy. If we all simply stayed in our nests happy and content everyone would be better off. But..." He turns the glasses to a part of the lens that is unbroken and peers through it at each of the Geons in the room. "There is good that has come of this. Diseases that we didn't even realize we're killing us wiped out in a matter of days. Advances in medicine and philosophy saving lives and untold numbers from torment. From short brutal lives, infants smothered at their first breaths, or young lives cut short by a simple cut and infection. Advances in equality for members who are less powerful. No longer dominantion by the strong. I am not strong, I lived back then only by the mercy... No the apathy of those stronger than me. But now I can help others, I can draw on strength that is deeper and different than that of my muscles." He puts the cracked glasses on and smiles. "There are flaws I won't lie to you and there are problems but if we all work together and try we can make things better. It will be scary but progress is always scary, but just like the UNW was there to help my people, they will be here to help yours. And you can go out and make this galaxy a little kinder too." (edited)

10:40 AM

(Sorry for playing philospher for the day!)

"Few changes are perfect, fewer still benefit everyone, but you make it sound as though this has been a good thing for many of you. Our story is a bit different, we did once interact with the others on this world. Would you believe we once interacted with the Helldivers? Relations were good for a time. They were desert dwellers and had a taste for the metals of the world spine mountains in which we live and in return we would inherit some of their technologies. Little at first, trinkets really, almost exclusively weapons and other gadgets to enhance our warmaking prowess. It was still not on the level of what they were using. Eventually, tensions with their neighbors the Piggen ran high and we were offered a choice. Evidently, the Helldivers believed we were a client of theirs and got the "generous" offer of service, or be destroyed. We of course would not participate in an act of genocide. It is an affront to all cultures, rock, stone, or muscle and fur such as yourself and instead we saw tribe after tribe wiped out to the robotic advance. We fought them to a draw, and all that remained of us fled into this mountain where we have been hiding from the world ever since. We became legend, then myth, and the world forgot about us, which was exactly as we had wanted. Something happened six years ago now almost, some sort of restlessness was kindled in our people. Some began to leave, some forgot themselves, and their place within the tribe. Others left. We knew the world would find us again, but we know little of the one we are emerging into, and we will not see ourselves used as a tool for massacre by some other culture. There are too few of us to survive a purge now. It will be the end of us here"

(sorry, was on vacation and didn't have time to put together a cohesive IC post) Ferrous stirs and emits a low groan after this speech. He bends barely at the waist, eyeing the crystal with eyes suspiciously, and avoiding meeting the shaman elder's gaze. "Perhaps it is this feeling of restlessness in others of the tribe that I felt, bringing me to serve in the ranks of the UNW. Could this mean I was destined to return and bring my worlds together? One forgotten and one adopted. You fear extermination! I stand here of my own free, iron will, unexterminated. Alongside a hairy, yet undeniable example of the potential of uplifting. We met hardly a week ago, but through the example of the values of the United Nations, we work towards common goals with selfless commitment." He moves behind Lamarck and grasps his shoulders. "what motive of self interest could he have, entering unknown land with an unknown Geon of unknown character? The UNW has changed, the world above has changed by your own admittance. You may be asked to serve in wars to benefit the greater good, but only those who feel the calling of a guardian need to step forward. Resources may be requested, but aid and technology will be returned in equal measure. " He steps forward again, presenting himself to the elders, sweeping his arms to indicate his own body "let my appearance serve as your omen to return to the world above and show the galaxy that the Geon belong among the stars alongside the UNW" He turns his shoulders to look at Lamarck, shrugging to indicate he's not sure what he's doing.

(no worries I knew you were gone, just took the opportunity to monologue!) Lamarck smiles at Ferrous, not the usual toothy grin, yet pride shines in his eyes all the same. "Well said my friend, I knew under that rocky exterior beat a heart of good" He turns to the elders. "I think I understand some measure of your pain. As you said our stories are different but they are the same stories told throughout the galaxy. A people facing tumultuous times. Sometimes it takes... Strong willed?" He grins toothily at Ferrous. "Individuals to move us forward, you are no fools. A time of change is coming. Let us face it as one unified world. Fur and rock and flesh and stone, side by side as equals. We will not force you but we ask"

3:06 PM

(you sly dog, you got me monologuing)

"A trusting relationship takes time, but you both stand here in front of this council honest about the good and the bad of the world outside. These caves will not hide us forever, and the cracks are beginning to show. If we will return to the world, we will do so with our own momentum, and with some power to set the terms. We will meet with a UNW delegation ,and we will see where this leads"

Lamarck let's out a whoop. "Of course, I wouldn't have it any other way. In fact I'd suggest for now we meet at a neutral ground before you give away your location. But I commend your bravery. And we will both do whatever we can to help make this transition good for everyone. In fact we would be willing to take any starting requests you have now back to the UNW. " He reaches a hand out to the council members.

The shakes are returned at first with hesitancy and then with enthusiasm. For now a possible groundwork has been laid.

7:14 AM

(3xp, 5000 credits each)

"May we stay a few days and get a better sense of how we can best help you? I can make arrangements for a delegation as well" (Not looking for anything mechanical here just trying to start them off on the best foot possible, feels weird to just leave immeditatly after this big decison. Also Ferrous we get paid by UNW now so you can add another 25k credits for this month y5M12)

(up to you guys, this could turn into a mission for them if we want, or we can do other things, I know this has been more or less all we've done)

(Let's go do the dank crew stuff first, I think that was our final mission of our agreed upon list. We can check back in with these guys afterwards and make sure everything is going smoothly? If Ferrous feels strongly about helping them first I would be fine with that too.)

(let's get dank with it. Ferrous would feel strongly that he needs to hold up his half of the deal)

(for sure, they'd probably want to call the tribe together to talk without observers being here too, probably a bad optic if the potential new boss is watching you have a meeting about them being the new boss)

(that makes a lot of sense to me! I'm ready to boogie then)

Your mission accomplished and the correct people informed you are able to confirm Silvanodi was killed by the tribe for threatening to expose them against their interests. His death is an unfortunate misunderstanding, but given its nature as a tribal matter you doubt that there will ever be any official UNW stance on the matter aside from a pension for any left behind relatives. It is a short journey back to the rail line now that you know the route, where a train will take you north to the desert. The route directly into the Dank compound has been discontinued, but it will at least bring you through the mountains .

Lamarck looks up at the blazing sun, already feeling the heat of the day. "Maybe those Geon had the right idea staying underground, this sun is brutal! I can't believe it all worked out in the end, I thought they were gonna kill us for a minute there. Poor Silvandoni." Lamarck pulls up a map. "It looks like the train will get us close but we'll need to walk the rest of the way, unless we can get a vehicle. Thanks again for coming along, I know you're anxious about your tribe but I think you're right a few days without us there will help them better prepare." He makes his way from the vehicle to the train, waving for Ferrous to come along. (Do we need to grab tickets?)

(no, you're polity agents so you just go where you need)

11:04 AM

(No one is going to question you or wants to be the one who's name comes up when you're asked why government business was impeded)

(Sweet, I'm good to head up then. Ferrous any objections?)

Ferrous gently pats his pistol. "hmmm?" he brings his attention back to the real world. "Oh yeah let's hop aboard. This group we're joining up with are friends of yours? Seeking out rare specimens or something? I'll be honest I wasn't really listening before." (let's hit it)

Lamarck sighs, holding his broken glasses out before shrugging and putting them back into his bag. "Not exactly, In fact I've only heard of them. They apparently had a zoo at one point but have since fallen out of influence. I was hoping we could go up there and grab the animals so they don't have to worry about them anymore. Its for Gurk's moon zoo. I honestly don't know very much about them. Hence you and your best friend there" He points to the pistol. "Coming along, just in case"

(we have about a day of travel north if we need to heal or prepare anything)

(I'm okay, assuming my survival kit still works in the deserts, Ferrous it may be worth buying some new stuff even if it takes an extra day. But I'm good personally!)

8:05 PM

(yes it does, its based on planet)

8:05 PM

(So we're still on Gudrun)

(Just wanted to check since I know Gudrun is gigantic, thanks!)

(Ferrous,you need or want to pick up anything before we go?)

(I think I'm good)

Lamarck gets on there train and beckons Ferrous up. "Come on we could use some good food. Have you ever had a banana? I bet they will have some on the train! Wait... Do you eat... Food?" He seats himself in a booth, and begins the journey across the planet.

(Sounds good! this never lit up for me )

1:43 PM

Heading north, the train ride is uneventful. The departure point between north to Dank Crew, and west to Delphos , the city of the Piggen approaches and the train slows as both of you are summoned to the front. You'll be able to exist here and walk the last ten or so kilometers to their compound yourself.

As they exit the train Lamarck looks up, shielding his eyes from the sun. He mutters as he looks back down. "Why is it so hot here? Where are the trees?" He takes a moment to orient himself and points in the direction of the compound. "The Dank Crew compound should be out there, why make a facility for growing plants in the desert?"

Lamarck sighs heavily and starts walking. He keeps an ear out for any vehicles passing by. The distance isn't too far but he's eager to catch a ride in the heat. "Come on Ferrous, it's not that far all things considered!"

The desert around you seems barren and it becomes apparent that Dank Crew wants it this way. You see evidence of Spineback tracks in the loose sand in the area, and the water you have brought with you begins to diminish ,but you can walk the distance in a day, even in the heat. By mid day, you have crossed half the distance and find a small oasis ahead of a reflecting pool and a few leafy palm like tree.s

Trudging through the sand puts Ferrous in a bad mood. Each step requires easily twice the effort, especially for his dense form slinging sand every which way. "Yeah I eat. Never had a banana though. If I wasn't so thirsty I could eat some sand." A while longer in agitated silence and he answers Lamarck's next question. "I'm not a farmer, what the hell do I know about growing plants? Don't they need light too? Plenty of that to go around" he sweeps his arm aggressively at the sky as the heat is unrelenting. Upon spotting the oasis, Ferrous's mood brightens minutely. "Is that it? Is this their place? Plants and shit right? That's what these guys do." He had long been used to the urban life and climate controlled habitats the city offered. As a soldier he had spent many hours in less than friendly environments, but he had put in his time. He liked shade and access to water. His pace quickens as he looks forward to cooling his carapace under trees and in water.

Lamarck furrows his brow, looking up and down at the map and the oasis. "No, that can't be right. We haven't been walking long enough. We aren't exactly making great time with your..." He glances at Ferrous' half sunken foot and thinks better of it. "A break is exactly what we need! You know, I used to wear these little foot things in the snow, spreads out your weight and makes you not so sink. Maybe we can take some fiber from a tree and make you a pair. Although given your weight they may need... Sorry, thinking out loud. Let's go cool off" They head towards the Oasis. As they get close Lamarck pauses again. " You can... Eat sand? And you've never had a banana?" He looks up at the sky. "I'm really far from home"

The oasis is small but it looks to be real, though you suspect seeded by Dank Crew since it likely would not have sprouted here on its own.

8:23 AM

You are unsure if it is monitored or not, but for the moment the shade and water are welcome, and it appears as though animals have spent large amounts of time drinking here as well.

"I should come back here, a watering hole like this is sure to have lots of animals. I wonder if that's why they set it up?" He takes a moment and kneels next to the oasis refilling his canteen and splashing water on his face. He looks around for any animals but assumes their presence would scare most of them off.

His canteen refilled and not seeing any wildlife around he beckons for Ferrous to follow. "If we hurry we won't get caught out in the midday sun... Can you get sunburned?" (edited)

(we can get a surive/wis for the animals, this never lit up for me)

Kodo

used /roll

Lamarck Request: [2d6+2] Roll: [5, 1] Result: 8 Reason: survive/wis

(can I get burned? Am I still carbon based?)

Ferrous Bullier

used /roll

Ferrous Bullier Request: [2d6-1] Roll: [6, 5] Result: 10 Reason: Survive/wis

(You cannot get burned, no, and there is evidence of a large herd of Spineback in the area)

9:08 AM

https://www.worldanvil.com/w/iron-stars-nekosmash/a/spineback-article

Spineback

9:08 AM

(We know little about them, as you can see)

"Ferrous these tracks you found, I think they're Spinebacks. I'm not entirely sure but the prints look like what I've seen in a book! If we had the equipment I'd say we should hunt them down but for now I'll just document their movements here, the footsteps and guess at the number" (I'm good to move past them for now, we don't have the capability to deal with them I assume but its good to know they frequent this Oasis!)

(Yeah, some nice info for us later if we decide we want to learn more about them. The Piggen have used them for some purposes but not so much anymore with them having technology)

Lamarck records all the information he can and prepares to move toward the dank crew compound.

Ferrous scoffs "oh I've got the equipment!" and points at his holster smugly, knowing it will get a reaction out of Lamarck. He pretends to be joking but if he got the go ahead Ferrous would attempt it. "you got all your notes?" he peeks at Lamarck's notebook full of scribbles. "Which way to these Danks? Why don't they just live here, seems nice" he shrugs his shoulders and awaits Lamarck to pull out the map and lead the way. (edited)

Lamarck waves his hands wildly. "No no no no don't shoot them! They're wonderful creatures that need to be protected not shot at! We'll come back with some proper equipment and be able to track them down and capture them peacefully." He pulls out his map and points "This way to their compound, keep that gun handy I have no idea what to expect from these people" (edited)

It will be evening by time you make your way to the compound from what you can tell, and it looks like they will not notice you. You can see the distant lights of the twelve building outpost. Four of them look to be the special grow towers, one is evidently habitation, and one is a workshop of some kind. You're unsure what the remainder of the facility might be as you begin observing them from your small dark hideaway atop the surrounding dunes

Lamarck passes the binoculars to Ferrous. "I was told they would have a zoo of sorts, maybe it's entirely indoors because of the heat? I guess we just go knock? Hopefully they aren't hostile, the living quarters are probably our best bet. Unless we wanna sneak around?"

(We can assume most of the stuff is inside, yeah, given he's got such a mastery of the taros grow tech

Lamarck looks over the compound, only able to see the areas illuminated by the various lights. "I think we just knock, this is a pretty big operation. When we were friendly with the tree ones they were kind to us back. Maybe if we ask nicely they will be nice back? I won't lie I would like to see what they are growing, and ask them why."

"Its your deal, you call the shots!" Ferrous rises and trundles down from their observation location. Because he knows no other way, his knocks resound like a bell tolling on a clear summer's eve. Resounding loudly out into the endless deser, in all likelihood, the spinebacks at the oasis knew that he had come calling as his rocky lump of a fist clanged against what looked to be a metallic door four or five times. He gives Lamarck a thumbs up.

"buh, buh wait. We well need. To we gotta you see. Ah!" He runs up to the door and stands behind Ferrous, shifting uncomfortably. "We don't have a plan, what are we gonna say????" He paws at his face feeling for glasses that aren't there.

There is a sound from inside as the shutter begins to open. "Who are you. What do you want?" the door guard says from the other side. You can smell the smoke of burning narcotics from within, even from where you stand.

Ferrous freezes at the door, then turns and looks at Lamarck. Lamarck starts stops then begins to babble. "Ah yes umm. Well terribly sorry to visit you so late but you see we're from the uhhh the well the G... Z... A? Gudrun.... zoo...ological? Ahhhh.. assembly? The Gudrun Zoological Assembly? We sent you several letters and you never responded so we've been forced to come visit in person. We are told you have a zoo on the... " He looks around at the farm. "Campus?"

"We do. What is your business with it" the doorman says, doing his best to maintain his footing though you can see his eyes are yellow and irritated.

Lamarck sniffs in deeply and the situation dawns on him. "We were sent to just inspect the zoo, but it seems like you may be busy. If you just point us in the direction of it we can leave you be"

"We can't let you wander without an escort. Stay here, I'll try to get the boss out of bed" The door peep-hole slams back into position and you can hear the hatch being fixed into place from the other side. You're not sure what other observation systems you might be showing up on right now.

"They seem like real gems" Ferrous notes in a low tone. "It's the middle of the day, what's he doing in bed? Better not have to wait long..." the ground shudders as he seats himself heavily and leans against the siding on the building. He sits in silence for a while, observing Lamarck's nervous ticks to pass the time. wonder when I should knock again

After a few moments go by, it certainly seems as though you're being blown off in favor of the party inside.

Ferrous groans with no subtlety whatsoever. "You wanna knock again? Or you wanna go check out the place ourselves?" then under his breath he mumbles "rude ass... Doing them a favor..."

Lamarck looks between the compound and the door. "We should probably knock but I've heard doing the same thing and expecting different results is... Not good? I can't remember what the professor said. Regardless. Let's take a look around, if they see us we can say we're lost and the guy at the door said to look for the boss.

(sneak/dex from each of you)

Kodo

used /roll

Lamarck Request: [2d6-1] Roll: [6, 1] Result: 6

Ferrous Bullier

used /roll

Ferrous Bullier Request: [2d6 - 1] Roll: [6, 4] Result: 9

Nekosmash

used /roll

Nekosmash Request: [2d6-1] Roll: [5, 4] Result: 8

It doesn't seem like anyone here is watching the controls for the cameras and the other security systems. For now, you can move about the complex undetected if you do not draw much attention to yourselves.

Lamarck looks between the buildings. He looks for signage or indications a building could house animals, otherwise he would start peeking in windows to see if he can see something interesting.

There are no signs here but the smells of animal dung lead back toward the northern side of the complex. You hear something in one of the buildings roar its displeasure at being caged.

Lamarck perks up as he hears the roar. "That would seem to indicate a zoo to me, or at least one member of it. None to happy as well." He waves Ferrous to follow him, opting to go around to the back of the building with the roar hoping to avoid watching eyes. As he arrvies he looks for an entrance to the building hoping for a back door.

There is a back door where feed products and other things are brought in. It’s an extra large door reinforced with bars, but it has not been locked

Lamarck tries his best to slip through the large door, hoping this backdoor is less liikely to be watched closely. He heads inside the building and begins looking for type and number of animals present as well as their condtion if possible.

You can see six spinebacks here, all of them are looking malnourished and two of them have some kind of skin parasite where their scales are falling off.

Lamarck's brow furrows at the sight of the spinebacks, even in this dim light he can see the animals are not being kept in proper conditions. He turns to Ferrous. "This isn't good, none of these animals are being properly cared for. We need to get them out of here as soon as possible. I'm half tempted to break open the cages and let them out now. They'd have a better shot." (Can I take pictures with my compad?)

(Yes you can! I've always thought of them as functionally similar to a modern smartphone)

Lamarck takes pictures documenting the health of each animal to the best of his ability. He also checks for locking mechanisms to their pens, still toying with the idea of letting the creatures loose. He looks out the backdoor he came through trying to identify an escape path.

The doors are locked with three thick bolts from the outside. The spinebacks cannot get out themselves from their side of the enclosure, but the bolts could be easily removed by animal tenders

Lamarck makes a mental note of the bolts but decides that animals may not be healthy enough to be simply let out. He begins moving through the rest of the building looking for more evidence. Once he feels satisfied he's exhausted the search he wants to check out their growing area. Assuming he doesn't suspect animals in any other buildings (no smells/sounds kinda thing)

(Yeah we knew they had spinebacks but the other stuff we know thatl ives in the desert is even bigger than this, or even more hostile than this)

(Okay sounds good, as fun as it would be to let them go saving the animals is more important!)

The grow tower is locked by a large door with a biometric keypad forming the lock to get in. Just on the other side through the thick windows you can see the cleanroom and the gear that is used to get into the actual grow habitats themselves.

Lamarck shrugs to himself as he tries the locked door. "That makes sense, lock up the valuable stuff. Doesn't say much for their feelings on their animals...." He turns back to Ferrous. "So do we wanna keep looking around or just wait until morning when we can have a more... Sober conversation?"

There is shouting and yelling upstairs, and what sounds like people cheering. The party doesn't seem like it is ending anytime soon.

"these are big suckers... I don't know how we get them out without them knowing" He listens to the raucous sounds of the party. "okay maybe we could" He takes a final glance around at the grow house. The info from their investigation amalgamates into an idea. "Lamarck do you know why they have these spinebacks? They're not pets, they aren't being cared for well, they don't have them well secured... Why acquire and keep them?"

Lamarck glares in the direction of the building. His fist balls up and only releases at Ferrous question. "Huh? Oh. Huh. Ummm. I assumed they were trophy animals but... You're right they're stuck back here in a cage. " His brow furrows from anger into confusion. "What are they doing here? I heard it was a zoo but a zoo with only one type of animal kept in the back? Sounds like smuggling or something. Let's keep looking around. I want to find every creature this place has. We're all leaving here tonight." (edited)

(there are three other buildings that look like this, but they've all been quieter in terms of animal noises)

Lamarck looks to the next building over. He squints into the darkness. "Something is rotten in the state of Gudrun.... Let's figure out what's going on here and save these animals. He makes his way to the next building, looking for animals but at this point he really wants an excuse to shut this place down. (If I were to call the military/police how long would it take them to get to here? ) Edit:(can I heal/try to heal them with my biopsionic? Cause if I can we can just spring everyone) (edited)

(You can heal them with an effort each, unless you are at the point where you no longer need to spend effort on healing. The spineback can each take a strain or two)

8:51 AM

(the authorities would need about half an hour, but all we really have on these guys is the animals arent being kept in great condition, no evidence of higher crimes)

(Awesome, I don't need to spend effort anymore. And yeah being mean to animals isn't a crime. Thanks!) Lamarck looks around for food to distract the animals, so he can reach a hand into the pen without getting hurt.

Ferrous puts a hand on Lamarck's shoulder. "Might be safer to let me do the distracting." he loudly bashes his hands together to literally remind him what he's made of. "What's your plan? I'm not so good with animals but I can hold my own against these sickly beasts"

"Be careful! They may be sick but they're still pretty big! I just need to lay a hand on them and it should heal them." With Ferrous banging around Lamarck sets up his compad to record what's happening. He attempts to heal the distracted animals focusing on the two worst off ones.

(its a crime but it would be like, a visit by the unw farm board or something, not the police)

10:29 AM

The spinebacks look to calm down once they realize your touch is healing, helping even, and they become quite docile and even friendly toward you, one of them giving an appreciative lick as the energy fixes the many problems they have within.

Lamarck giggles at the rough tongue as the force of the tongue pushes him back. He's reminded of a cat he got during his uplift, Mr.Googi, assigned to him as part of an experiment to see how species undergoing uplift interacted with other species that were on a similar level to their original intelligence level. A memory of discovering his MES powers healing Mr.Googi's broken paw followed. "These guys are as friendly as a cat! I'd bet we could herd these cats out of here and into a shuttle. We just need a shuttle!" (edited)

(even one is too big for a shuttle, weight wise)

(hmmm, could Gurks ship pick the lot of them up? Or at least a one? Or can I ask if there are any ships for hire that could carry this tonnage?)

(Gurks could but its on Terezinho right now supporting his covert op)

(That makes sense to me, gotta swing to hit the ball) Ferrous gives Lamarck a look, taking in the size of the creature. "Okay, maybe a shuttle won't quite work... Gurk is out of town too. Let's just get them out of here and see if they take off or follow us. We can track them down later, they'll probably end up by that Oasis we saw earlier." He grabs a wrench from a nearby drum and prepares to knock the bolts out of place freeing the animals. (edited)

(nothing would stop you, and the bolts aren't especially complicated, just too complicated for animals and things without actual hands)

(was just giving Ferrous a chance to stop me but yolo!) Lamarck takes a deep breath, nods for Ferrous to open the back door. Tap Tap tap The bolts slide out and clang to the ground. The gate slowly begins to creak open.

There is a clank as the gate begins opening, and the Spinebacks begin to take their first ponderous steps outside their enclosure.

Lamarck tries to lead the animals to the open door. Moving calmly with purpose, trying to get the animals to copy his movement. He lightly clicks his tongue in what he hopes is the universal sign for come here good boy

They understand in their own simple way, and seeing freedom the first one takes a cautious step outside. You have enough time to hear it give a triumphant roar at its freedom as it runs from the barn and into the desert sands.

Lamarck smiles to himself even as he ducks out of the doorway nearly getting trampled as the animals taste freedom for the first time. "We gotta get out of here. They can't be that blind to miss a whole herd!" He doesn't move yet, waiting for every animal to make it out of the barn at this point waving them out towards the leader of the pack. (edited)

(by time the tower folks notice anything is wrong their animals will be gone)

3:49 PM

One of the Spineback stops and lowers its head, almost as if offering you a ride.

(Ahhh!!!!) Lamarck gently moves toward the spineback. He sees the clear lowering of the head and his heart thumps out of his chest in his chest. He gingerly begins to climb on board smiling like an idiot. 'What would the professor say about this???' "Atta boy... Girl? Atta being!" He pats on the spineback on its head, trying to scratch behind it's ears like he did with his cat. He eventually grabs two spikes that seem large enough to provide a grip. "Alright, just like in the movies! Giddyup!"

THere is a whomp as you are propelled forward on the back of the spineback, and the pack begins to stampede off into the desert, braying and calling to one another now that they are free. You can feel their excitement and happiness to once again be back in the open air, and just as predicted they begin heading to the oasis to drink deeply of the water there before continuing their journey.

Lamarck grabs on as tight as he can letting the Spinebacks take him with them. He looks back at the compound as it fades into the distance "I really hope there weren't more animals in there, but these ones are at least free." He hangs on until the oasis, feeling the air through his fur and listening to the excited calls of the finally freed animals.

(3xp 5000 credits )

As the animals gather around the oasis, greedily lapping up the water. Lamarck takes the time to pat his mount fondly on the head and dismount. He takes a moment to watch the animals, looking for further injuries. "Ferrous, unless one of them is hurt I don't think I can put them in a cage. I know they were for the zoo but after seeing this I don't have the heart to put them in another cage. I think they deserve this.'

Ferrous follows Lamarck's lead, not being experienced in animal husbandry (or Geon husbandry to boot). As he sees Lamarck grasp spines and get whisked away, Ferrous clumsily clambers onto a nearby spineback, and hopes for the best as the creature follows the herd to the oasis. As he dismounts, Ferrous misjudges his weight placement and tumbles into a patch of tall grassy plants, crushing them under his weight. "I don't really have a..." not remembering the creatures name he waves at one nearby grinding large leaves in its maw "... one of them in this race. But what will you tell the folks to whom you promised these creatures? If they have dealings with foul groups like that one often, they might not be the type to take kindly to you not following through." He becomes visibly uncomfortable "just uh... Wouldn't want the um ... Creatures to get rounded up... Roughly. The creatures. I'm sure you'll be fine.... Just worried about the... creatures" intimating his concern for his counterpart with all the subtlety of their recently escaped herd.

Lamarck in middle of an examination of a Spineback perks up. "Huh?" He plucks a bit of the dried scale off a Spineback, satisfied that it's healing nicely. He scratches the back of his head, realizing the situation. "Ah, uh ah. No it's not like that. Gurk who runs the zoo is a decent fellow. He wouldn't be mad at all. I was trying to do this as... A favor? To him." He straightens up and looks around at the herd smiling. "Plus. I think he would agree that this was a good outcome. The... Creatures" he puts emphasis on the word and looks to Ferrous with a small smile. "The creatures.. will be fine. I know they would be nice to have but... It's okay. I appreciate your concern for the creatures." He walks over and lightly punches Ferrous. "Never took you for the hippie type. Those folks in the woods must have rubbed off on you. Come on help me check these last few. I'll show you what to look for you big softie." He checks for any animals not healing well, trying to explain to Ferrous what he knows of animal health.

(I think the next logical move would be to follow this up and disrupt Dank Crew operations so they don't have the ability to go round up the creatures you freed. Striking while the iron is hot, as it were)

(Agreed at the minimum, from what I've read it seems like they are kinda a corporation that has done a fair amount of illegal things? Are they currently under investigation/indicted by UNW? Trying to figure out how much latitude I have here in the law I guess)

(they tried to skirt around that by disavowing Herb and Malcum, their founders, even throwing up some of the money to the bounty board, but we actually have no IC info on if this was just like a political move of theirs or how the new top level folks actually feel about the outfit and its activities)

(gotcha, so they may be trying to cover stuff up. Or at a minimum keeping the animals in poor health.) Lamarck pats a spineback on the back, satisfied that it will be healthy enough to survive in the wild. He turns to Ferrous "I guess technically at this point our bargain is done. But if you're game I think I could use your help again." He points in the direction of the compound. "We gotta take them down. There's nothing stopping them from catching these guys again. And you're right they weren't keeping them for show. We need to figure out what was going on in there and figure out how to make it stop." He turns back to look at the spineback . "What did they want with you big guy?" He pats it on the back. "Let's go back, and watch from a distance. Get an idea of what they're doing when it's not party time."

(I don't think they'd be hunting through the dunes just yet, so we can return to our previous position and watch the cmopound to see what they do)

(Sounds good to me, let's do that) "Come on Ferrous, that ridge we used earlier seems like a good point to start from. Maybe seeing their initial reactions will give us some idea of what they were doing"

(notice/wis)

"Take them down you say?" he eagerly pulls his pistol from its steadfast place on his hip. He gazes at the animals he had just help save. "let's go" /roll 2d6+1 !notice

Ferrous Bullier

used /roll

Ferrous Bullier Request: [2d6+1] Roll: [4, 3] Result: 8 Reason: notice

Kodo

used /roll

Lamarck Request: [2d6+2] Roll: [4, 2] Result: 8 Reason: Notice

As morning comes the first of the animal handlers exit the tower. They appear intoxicated for a moment before each sloppily injects themselves with some sort of amber colored stimm, and suddenly it looks as though they've recovered their wits. The absence of animal sounds is noticed after a few moments, and they begin to run back toward the Dank Crew tower at the center of the compound, no doubt to inform someone else.

"what the heck is that injection thing? Have you ever seen that? They seem alarmed by the lack of animals. Hopefully everyone leaves to look for them and we can take a look around?" He passes the binoculars to Ferrous. Watching the small figures scurry about the compound.

It looks like some kind of alert at the missing animals has been raised. They don't seem to think anyone was responsible for it, yet, but they do know that things are not quite right.

(I can't think of anything to do but wait until the fuss dies down. Either that or follow any teams they send out and try to sabotage them? Or maybe just offer to buy the equipment they use to catch them?)

(either of those options are good honestly, and either change the situation tremendously. We can attempt either)

(Let's give Ferrous a chance to weigh in. I'm leaning toward follow a team out at this point. I have a new ability I'd like to try!)

(sure thing, lets see what he's got to say and we'll push from there)

(Ferrous , up to you how you want to proceed. I know this is the tail end of the bounty you were working on ,we're almost there)

Ferrous grabs the binoculars and surveys the situation. "They'll be on high alert inside the compound. Any security we were able to avoid the first time will surely be active." He observes for a few moments longer as they become a bit more organized into small groups. "We could probably ambush a couple that leave the compound if they go looking for the spinebacks or for us. Easier than taking on the whole lot of them." His eyes get lost in an idea we could steal their clothes... Sneak into the base maybe he looks at Lamarck judging his stature. *he's a little short for a trooper, isn't he? * " What if we disguised ourselves as a couple that leave the compound and snuck in?"

Lamarck thinks for a long moment, adjusting his glasses as he does so. "I can't think of a better idea. They seem pretty stoned and messed up in there, they might not notice its us, or that we look a lot different from the people who left"

"Alright let's move down" Ferrous begins to slide down the mountain to prepare for any fight. "so how do we save them? You're the animal expert" Ferrous has his gun at the ready but is wary where to point it

"They don't look like they've been wild for long. We knock these two idiots out, take their unforms, pull the gate latches, and we just have to trust our animal friends here will see to themselves. We can track them down later when the job is done" the Utan says making his way down the sand toward the distant and distracted Dank Crew thugs

(I know it's been a while here and life has been super crazy for you. If you're not able to keep going we can archive this until you're able or wanting to swing back. No hard feelings. I know at best this is an obligation, just lemmek now)

(yeah probably best to archive for a while. I don't want to waste your time either worried about an inactive thread)

(It’s not a waste just noticed it has been a while so I wanted to check in)

(appreciate you bb)