Iron Stars - granite

Granite rises from the ground, after many days of tunneling out. The collapse was complete and he only survived because of his angular and hardened form. The crystals of his outer layer reflect dimly as he takes in the gentle moonlight of the scene around him. Fresh air, wind, the quiet gurgling of a nearby stream, the call of animals that hunt and are hunted as night goes on. This is the world he has emerged in, similar and yet so different from what existed underground and until now was all he had ever known. There is a sharp smell on the wind. Smoke, burning wood, and something heartier still- though only the fainest hint of it

3

2

2

After a moment of awe struck stillness, a sense of panic brings Granite back to reality. Where are they? Did they make it out? His eyes dart back and forth hurriedly looking for signs of any survivors breaking the surface of the soft earth beneath him.

The surface is quiet save for where you emerged. You seem to be the only one who has tunneler out of the cave in recently and digging into the ground only churns up the rest of your possessions.

4:51 PM

There aren’t any bodies here

Fearing the worst Granite waits a few minutes overcome by emotion. Small liquid crystals fall from his eyes only to harden into teardrop shapes before they hit the earth. A deep sigh and his instinct take over. ”Shelter, food, and answers...” He gathers up his meager supplies and after gaining his bearings heads over towards the smell of fire and smoke. “What is going on?” His voice sounding like small crystals clinking together.

There are three hunters who nearly have strokes as you emerge from the woods. It takes them a moment to gain their composure but they’re less surprised to see a geon than you’d think. “Welcome geon. Enjoy our fire. Haven’t seen one like you before “

Granite’s laser rifle quickly moves to shooting position. His crystal eyes focusing on the closest hunter until he notices the details of the scene. In confusion he lowers his rifle. “Who are you. I did not know anyone lived on the surface, and there are so many of you? What are you doing here?” He lowers his rifle sensing the general calm energy of the group. (edited)

"We're camping for the night from hunting, and there are lots of humans on the surface. You'er welcome to have a seat and join us. You seem like a Geon with lots of questions"

Granite slowly lowers himself on a near by rock, rifle laid across his lap. With a free hand he grabs a few pebbles from the ground and inspects them before sampling them. Eck serface rocks “You said you haven’t seen any Geons like me... have you seen any Geons tonight?”

"Tonight? no. But there is a large settlement of ones that are less....shiny..not far from here"

Finding a bit of hope, Granite sits up at the mention of others Geons. Maybe they have some idea about what happened... “Could you point me to this settlement? How far away is it.” He says standing abruptly and searching the dark horizon to see if he can see the settlement from here.

"If we tell you are you going to go racing off into the woods like a crazy rock man?

12:56 PM

"Or are you going to wait until morning like a sensible person?"

Feeling the strain of the day weighting heavily on his dense rocky form. Granite sighs and sits down once more. This time with a loud thud. Tunneling up from the lower crust had taken a lot out of him and at this moment he felt it. In no condition to face this new world by himself he began to relax soaking up the heat from the fire. “I’ll rest a while at least... if I must...” He sets his rifle down beside him, shrugs off his pack of supplies and stares into the flames allowing the natural pulse of the fire light to be copied by the dim pulse of his crystals.

"Hungry Geon? not sure if anything we have will suit you, but you seem tired"

“No, just tired at the moment...” A rush of exhaustion cascades through the young Geon causing the crystals on his body to dim further. Sleep unexpectedly takes him. His glowing eyes grow dark and the pulse of his crystal light becomes almost imperceptible as he nods off. The warms of the fire reminding him of his home and his family.

Morning comes and the hunters are packing up their camp. They've left you some supplies in a sack but haven't wanted to risk disturbing you, unsure how you'd reach to being awoken.

2:46 PM

Included in this bundle of supplies is the map to the Geon settlement, about 5km away based on the scale they've included with it

The lights of Granites crystals slowly brighten as he stretches. Not having slept in such soft ground before, he is noticeably sore. While gathering up the supplies Granite clears his throat. “Thank you... You’ve both been very kind. “ Gathering up the last of the supplies, Granite forces himself to let out two small crystal tears and hands them to the two hunters. With a wave he begins his journey towards the Geon settlement.

From a distance after walking for about an hour you are observing from the cover of some trees. The settlement has a mix of human and more sedimentary rock appearing geon all working and living together. The settlement has external buildings around a cave entry, and you can see walls are in the process of being planned and built

Granite watches from the trees for a few moments before he ventures out of cover towards the settlement. Rifle slung on his back, hands free and trying to look as peaceful as possible unsure how these new faces would react. “Hello? I come in peace.” He says as he get close enough to these new creatures.

"Hail! Geon!" a sentry calls out from atop a tower, hastily constructed probably only days before. | "What is your business here?"

“I’ve just survived a cave in, and was hoping to find my family.” Unsure of how these people treat his kind he lifts both hand in the air as a sign of surrender.

"Easy , Geon are friends here, you've been watching from the trees long enough and have seen us working together. Get inside, before some animal from the woods or the lake decides they want try to nibble on some rocks for dinner"

Shocked that he wasn’t as careful as he thought, Granite walks inside the settlement looking for someone who is in charge, or may know of the seismic activity last night and the wear outs of his kin.

The guard's eyes flash yellow, unblinking and like nothing you've seen before , and he gives a short nod as you get close enough to see him. A sedimentary Geon with a large hat, boisterous rainbow feather in it, seems to have the respect of the inhabitants here and as he emerges from the cave. Several of them are already queuing up to meet with him on various manners it seems

(Was the guard Geon?) Looking from side to side and finding the nearest geon. “Excuse me, who is that rock over there?”

(Human, but had panspectral optics, which was how he could see you)

4:30 PM

"Marble, the stonespeaker and chief of this settlement. Oh wow! you're a geon too!"

Granite give the passerby a rocky smerk and heads over to Marble. Patiently waiting his turn to talk to the feathered hated geon.

(You’re a different type than they are so although you’re a geon they probably haven’t seen one exactly like you before)

(Sorry I meant the geon with a feather hat. I picked a weird way to say it though.)

Marble sees you in the crowd and dismisses the others for a moment. "Hey! You're a geon too! Not like the others, or like me. Whats your name friend?" He is enthusiastic, almost child like in his wonder, but the hat, and scars of battle, and the respect of his tribe clearly mean he;s got skills to be leading this settlement.

"Granite" he replies simply. "Last night there was a cave in, and i got separated from my tribe. Would know anything about it, or have seen any other Geon's like myself?"

"Like you? no, not so shiny and hard , or sparkly. Can tell you're a geon though. The planet knows you are one of its own. Where was your tribe living?"

"Down close to the mantle... so far down, that I didn't know other Geons existed..."

"Well, we do. And I'm glad you do too. You're the only one who made it out then?"

7:41 PM

"We can maybe get some aircraft to check the area, see if anyone else has turned up"

“Could I join them, the expedition I mean... You know how much the family means to us geons...” he says with pleading in his voice liquid crystal tears welling in his eyes. (edited)

“We will go together. My personal plane has a scanning thing in it. I will bring a smart human with us to help too”

"Thank you..."

The craft is wheeled out of a hangar that had been made of wood and the microlight flyer is unveiled. The tarp is removed and it’s wings unfold and are drilled into position once it’s wheeled out of the town gates. A sleepy looking human is pulled from their bunk and looks to be the radio and scanner operator marble had in mind.

6:56 AM

It takes about half an hour to get the vehicle prepared and finally it’s doors open, allowing all three of you to get in. The radio operator sits behind the pilots , facing away, while the twoof you sit next to one another in front

Granite clutches to the craft with both hands. Having rarely come to the surface, much less fly, the young geon mutters a quite prayer under his breath. “How often do you do this type of traveling Marble?”

“Only a few times. I have to talk to the humans in the other living places far away from here. I can be there and be home in time for rock soup with this. The humans are ugly looking but they make nice things” Marble says, unknowing or uncaring about the radio operators opinion of the statement

Granite eyes the human then turns his attention to the window. “All my life, I’ve lived in a cave surrounded my molten rocks... and all this was up here, just waiting...”

“I am sure we would think the same thing if the people up here went down to where your family lived” (Notice /wis)

(10)

You notice a brief warm flash from the ground, like a glint of a warm colored material within a dense grove of trees

“There marble, what is that? It almost felt like lava.”

The plane descends as close to the treetops as Marble dares to take it. There are three figures down there and you see the warm flash of light again

“There is something down there, but I can cannot quite make it out. Can we land?”

There is a small clearing about 200m east of the area you're looking at where a rough landing can be performed. Marble tells everyone to buckle up as the small wheels lower, preparing to land. The propeller whines, as the thicker air close to the ground begins to make it whistle. The cabin is cramped and you're all thrown around a bit, as the uneven ground is unkind to the landing gears. One of the struts snaps as the plane comes to a halt, tilting toward the pilot compartment. Marble sighs. "Me and you will go look at the sparkle you saw. Navigator will fix this"

Granite nods an affirmative and jumps out of the craft excited to be on land again. After a few moments of appreciation he stands up and readies his rifle, nodding to marble to signal that he’s ready.

Marble has no weapon on him and begins heading into the woods. Whatever you saw is evidently ambulatory and coming this way, you can hear brush cracking and sticks breaking under thick footfalls but it’s still a decent way off

Unsure of whats going on, Granite runs after Marble, his rifle ready. "Wait" He loudly whispers, "There is no telling what that is..."

"What do you think it is?" Marble says, keeping low and listening. "The steps...they sound familiar"\

Crouching down beside Marble, Granite whispers, "I've never been this far up before...so who knows what it could be. But if it sounds familiar its a good chance that its one of us..."

Ahead, you and marble wait, as two members of your tribe looking weak, wounded, and disoriented stomp through the trees, collapsing as they come into the clearing,.

Granite rushes to their sides immediately checking for wounds and their identities. “Marble we’ve found them, and they are hurt!!”

They're clan mates, but not immediate family in the traditional sense. The two of them have come alone, and are on their literal last legs.

“What happened to you?” He says holding one of the injured Geons.

"Cave in. Got lost. where...Where are we?"

3:44 PM

They're in bad shape, and are having trouble pulling words or thoughts together. You sense what you got is probably as good as you're going to get without some medical attention

"You're on the surface now, we've got you." Granite looks the two over and then looks to Marble. Think we can carry them to you flying machine?"

Marble thinks for a moment. "I can do them one better. Give me your hand. You're going to feela little bit of a pull, or a drain. It will not kill you, but I can siphon some of our energy into them"

Granite quickly holds out his hand towards Marble.

You feel a draining sensation, as promised. Each of the wounded Geon looks to be doing a bit better as some of their more serious wounds close up, and some of their vitality returns. Everyone is left feeling a bit drained, though no longer in need of urgent medical attention.

"You surface dwellers are sure full of surprises..."

1:30 PM

(To the two injured) "Do you think you can walk a little, our transport is not far off. We can rest more there for a little bit."

They'll be able to make it there with the infusion of health they've been given, and some rest at the transport should do them the rest of the way. They are silent, but fall in behind you, and marble. (3xp, 5000 credits)

Level Up Level: 2 Focus: Psychic Training Old HP: X HP Roll: X New HP: 15 New Skills: Punch, Fix, 1 point for EK and took Static Thrusters lvl 1

Returning to the site of the plane, the human tech has completed the repairs. He seems relieved to be getting out of here and back to the settlement, though the cabin will be very cramped.

(Speaking to the two geons) “I understand that you’ve been through a lot today. We’ll get you safe and rested soon and then we can talk about what happened, but do you know if there is anyone else out here?”

“Don’t think so. Didn’t expect to see anyone else. Some kind of cave in or earthquake. Not sure why now”

Granite nods and quietly get everyone into the craft ready for takeoff as he contemplates the possible loss of his friends and family.

Marble is able to get the craft back to the settlement once everyone is aboard and he promises they’ll make flights over the area for several days to make sure no one else surfaced, and to quickly provide aid if they do

“You’ve done so much for us thank you. Is there a place I can get my friends settled and maybe even start to earn a little food and a place to stay?”

"Of course. All Geon, and all people on this world are friends, and partners. You're welcome to stay as long as you like" Marble says, as the microflyer is disassembled and brought into the settlement

"Thank you again." Granite nods and turns to attend to the injured geons. A heavy weight lifted from his shoulders. If three of his clan could make it out alive then surly others did as well. Hopefully in this new place, this land above, maybe he can build a new life for his people and discover what caused the cave in to begin with. After his introspection, Granite heads towards his injured charges and looks to find a place to stay and some much needed medical help.

There are many comfortable places to rest within the cave system where the other geon also seem to prefer living. It’s much closer to the surface and this is also something you’re calmed about. A medic is able to treat all of you and by morning you’ll no doubt be feeling good as new- though your companions will need a few extra days of observation as they braved the wilderness for some time beyond what you were forced to

The following morning Marble is making his rounds , looking for volunteers with some issues the small settlement there is dealing with

“Hello Marble, did I over hear correctly that you were looking for volunteers?”

"I am looking for volunteers. I have a few things around the surrounding area that need to be handled. You thnk youre up for heading underground again to investigate a cave? We lost contact with the last group I sent that way"

“Sounds serious... but if there is any way I can help, you can count on me.” (edited)

“I’d like to send you and your two fellows out to that cave to see what happened and to map it if the team is still able”

“Consider it done then. “ Granite stands and begins packing his things and getting ready to depart eager to be put to work and earn his keep.

A land vehicle belonging to the rescue team should still be parked outside. Marble is able to get a signal from it still , and to ensure you get there timely he is willing to fly you and your two fellow igneous geon to assist in the task

Still a little unsure of flying, Granite focuses on the task at hand. Waiting till the craft lands to discuss the mission further.

The abandoned exploration vehicle is parked 30m from the sinkhole edge, and has power on still. It's running lights and the pressure system to keep the inside comfortable are still functioning, and from the outside you can see the equipment lockers have been used. Five ropes and pitons have been set up to lead down into the sinkhole cave, along with still running glowbugs. From the air, and from the outside of the explorer on landing, it seems as though this area had attention recently- though there are no signs of the explorers.

(Is it just me and the other two igneous geons?)

(To document what's going on here and try to follow up on the original team, yes)

2:54 PM

(You can drive their vehicle back to the settlement when this is over, so Marble and the plane don't need to stick around)

"Looks like they might still be down there..." Granite says looking down the sinkhole where the climbing ropes lead. "Flying though the air is still something I'm getting used to, so you'll have to forgive me, but what were your names again?" (Also do they have any weapons or anything on them?)

The armory on the explorer still looks to be intact, as the group had their own , and it looks like you can all equip yourselves from it before heading down

"Labradorite and Amethyst..." Speaking to the two Igneons. "Anything in that locker useful for us underground? Maybe some lights or med packs?" (I would think they would carry similar laser rifles as myself and stock up on any medical equipment, cave dive gear, and the rifles.) "Looks like we might be able to get down there using these ropes." (Any sign of movement in the area such as a creature coming out of the hole, or extra foot prints?)

There are a three doses of healing powder, and a laser rifle with a spare Type A cell for each of you, along with a helmet and light. Otherwise the cave divers have taken everything else. There is no signs of anything going into the hole but the explorers, and no sign of anything coming out of it

“We can repel with their ropes I suppose. Be ready for anything you two.” Granite grabs hold of the rope and begins repelling into the sinkhole helmet and light on. Healing powders and batteries dispersed among the three of them.

The descent is 300m into the ground which for you and your kin had you feeling more at home than on the surface. Coils of rope and a circle of dim glowbugs await at the bottom. They’re dim. It’s been at least a day since someone has been around to slot new power cells into them, if something has happened you are not far behind the original team. Boot prints in the dust head north into a large chamber ahead that is filled with crystalline mushrooms

Cautiously Granite and crew set foot on the bottom of the sink hole. Quietly taking in the surroundings, Granite readies his rifle and motions the others to do the same as he begins to follow the boot prints north.

(coming in from the south) The area ahead is magenta tinged, with strong discordant shadows and reflections cast on the walls as your headlamps pass over the rock formations. Your senses, used to being underground, seem to be adapting back to the dark environment without much trouble, either. Strange growths you have never seen before cover the surfaces of some of the crystals, as well as the ground itself. you can see faint boot prints heading north, and some disfigurement of the lower crystaline faces of growths near you, as it looks like someone went at them with tools to try to collect some samples, or some raw materials they could pocket for trade later- you can't be sure which.

Granite cautiously follows the foot prints North using hand signals to communicate that the group keep a sharp eye and move as quietly as possible.

(Notice/wis)

(8)

Something moves silently over the crushed stone in the darkness ahead. It sounds ponderous , and like it is trying to be quiet. (edited)

Granite freezes still, a bead of crystalline sweat dripping and then solidifying as it falls to the ground. Hand up to motion the others to stop as he inches closer to the movement. Gun up, finger on the trigger.

The approaching shadow is human sized and backlit by the glowbugs in the chamber ahead. Its stride is broken up and irregular

Glancing at Labradorite and Amethyst, Granite nods and sprints forwards hoping that this is just an member of the map team. But with his gun still ready and the electricity in his crystal gems beginning to crackle crackle with the excitement.

A bleeding Utan shambles into the pool of light from your headlamps. Crystal spines have been embedded in his back, six of them are stuck. He has two other holes that were exit wounds

2:13 PM

He topples head first onto the ground, stomach kicking up dust

Granite rushes forwards to try and catch the utan. “He’s hurt! Come quick!” Getting to the Utan’s side he quickly looks him over before looking up down the tunnel looking for anything Thant might follow. (He he still breathing?)

(He is still breathing, but badly hurt)

12:37 PM

Whatever did this to him, it is not following close behind. The tunnel is empty in both directions.

Amethyst watch our backs. I’m gonna try and stable him before we move him too much. Granite directs his attention to the injured. “Can you tell me what did this to you?” While listening for a reply Granite begins to administer first aid to the best of his abilities.

(heal/int)

(8)

The Utah groans as the medicine begins working. Your skill has saved their life and you now frantically try to get them from stable to lucid to figure out what happened here. Others stand by to help , gently pulling the projectiles out

“What happened to you?” Granite utters in a calm tone. “You look banged up pretty bad.”

He coughs and takes a long drink of water from a canteen on his hip that somehow did not break when he fell. "Crystal Crawler. Big. Ate two of team" he says between large mouthfuls

A bit of worry crosses Granite's face as he looks up at his companions. "Sounds like we are gonna have a big fight on our hands..." "When did you last see the creature?"

"Two chambers back...not sure how long...how long i was out"

“Do you think you think you can make it back to the surface? We have a craft waiting for us?”

The medicine. Seems like it’s taking hold. With a few minutes of rest it seems like he will at least be able to climb the rope out to the exploration vehicle where yoj know there are other medical supplies and a safe place to rest on board.

Seeing the Utan begin to recover Granite lifts him to his feet. Head to the surface, we’ll move further a head.” Granite nods to the other two geons and readies his rifle, resuming the careful walk further into the cave system.

There is a slow trickle ahead, and you catch the shadow of something moving on the ceiling as you enter the next chamber, before it vanishes into a crack , sending a few loose stones out behind it as it travels away from the newcomers and sources of light. Granite gets a fragmentary glimpse of it.

3

2

All color fades from Granites glowing crystals for a brief moment. He looks over at his companions with a sense that this might be the last time they see each other. After a resolute nod he forces the internal electricity to surge. If this is the end... Granite quickly scans for a hiding place that might give him some vantage point to shoot at the cave creature.

The crawler has vanished into the ceiling and doesn’t seem to be coming back, at least not this way. A few more falling rocks signal it moving through the ceiling tunnels but it does not strike. It is no longer here

Granite cautiously gets up and motions for the others two to be ready and advance further into the caverns. Even if that thing caused the tremors, we still need to look for the other researchers

The next room is more of the sub terrain crystal mushrooms, though the water in this room, located in a small reflecting pool to the west, seems to have become some sort of repository of low grade acid. You can hear is slowly hissing and bubbling as it works at the rock around it. At the edge of the pool, something sharp and ivory seems to be sticking out of the pool's edge.

Motioning to Labradorite and Amethyst to watch the ceiling and the area behind Granite cautiously approaches the sharp ivory object.

It is bone. Human bone. It seems whoever was here, fell into the pool or were tossed back into it later. They have a tattered NMC exploration uniform on, another one of the first wave

With a grimace, Granite turns back to the others. “Found the remains of another researcher... sigh Let’s look around and see if we can find anything else before that thing comes back. “

(notice/wis)

(8)

There is a compad half buried in a mound of what looks to be moist rock but it is spongy and webbed to the touch. The power still works and the screen is scratched but not smashed

Picking it up Granite looks through the info on the pad hoping to find what might have happened down here.

The pad opens and it shows that this cavern has a large volume of mineral wealth in it. It’s enough to keep the geon settlement rich and supplied for decades. The first team believes the crawler has probably always been here but over time it’s tunneling weakened the ground and the sinkhole opened. They’ve got evidence that there’s only one, and they were able to wound it

If that thing really is wounded, this may not be impossible. Granite put the pad in with his gear and returns to the other two geons. "Looks like this place could be a gold mine for us, we just have to hunt down a wounded terrifying... death dealing... horrible cave... spider... If you both are ok with that...."

They’re eager to get revenge for the first expedition and to@make sure no one else gets hurt. They heft their rifles with determination , ready to hunt this down with you. It seems to eat, meat especially, along with rock. The crawler above had a very large and well stocked kitchen from what you remember

"Stay alert, maybe if we head back to the research vehicle we can fins some supplies for a trap." Carefully, Granite makes his way back to the ropes. Rife raised and ready, eyes scanning the ceiling for traces of the beast.

Having recently fed, and attempted to feed, it seems calm for now but it will return. The light may also be keeping it back as it streams in from the open sinkhole. The ropes let you climb the long distance back up to the surface, where it is now late in the afternoon. Darkness will be coming soon, and the Utan you rescued is applying a medpak to himself, sitting propped up against the large wheel of the exploration vehicle.

Granite and crew approach the Utahn. “Looks like you’re on the mend. Think you’ll be fit to travel soon? With that monster hiding it may be best to head back to the settlement and get reinforcements before we try to hunt it down...”

He nods. "Your mission ,to find us? or to kill it?"

2:20 PM

He is struggling with Mandate English, a bit

“Just to find you, but with all the resources down there, Marbles may be intrigued and send a group back to secure the caverns.”

He seems to be the only survivor and your mission has achieved the minimum level of success. Returning home with a survivor and very expensive expedition vehicle will see you are rewarded

Leaving Amethyst to drive the research vehicle back to the settlement, granite leads the rest of the crew back to the plane to return to the settlement.

(3xp, 5000 credits )

3:45 PM

(I don’t want to saddle you with finishing this if you want to do something else. I think that intro arc is fine how we did it)

Granite returns to the settlement, and news of an expedition being planned to the unknown lands north and east of NMC space is being prepared. One ship, named the Boundless is being captained by a Levi Mccain, a renowned NMC hero, and he is looking for skilled help to round out the crew of his vessel for what might be a dangerous journeyu

The Boundless gangway touches down and the first person to step out of the ship isn't Levi, but several children pour out instead. The youngest of them don't even look to be 10 years old yet. They rush down excitedly to get their cabin fever out and greet the people living in the settlement. A moment later, a tall and sturdy dark-skinned man who's getting long in his years with greying hair steps out in traveling garb covered by a long waterproof overcoat. He sees the geon settlement and big smile crosses his face. He makes his way to the ground to seek out his favorite geon, Marble.

Amidst a small crowd of humans you see a plume of rainbow feathers. The humans, armed with various building supplies, head off toward a partially constructed building a short ways away and reveal the comically large captain's hat atop the squat stone figure of Marble. He pulls a geode from a pouch slung at his waste and takes a bite, sighing in appreciation at the delicious crystals before you catch his eye and he turns to you with a wide grin, flecks of stone spraying from his mouth as he speaks, "Levi!! How's my favorite old grump doing?"

He chuckles mirthfully and approaches. "Well there's too many kids on my lawn, but what's an old man to do? Haha..." He settles down and cuts right to the heart of matters. "Marble, friend. I'm here for a favor. I'm beginning an expedition to the North and East of the capital. Too much unknown out there. I'm here for recruits, if you've got any. Yourself, too, if you'd like to come along for the ride. You're more than welcome to come. What do you think?"

Marble looks up excitedly for a moment before sighing dejectedly, "I can't go, there's too much going on around here and somehow I'm in charge of it all! But hey! There's another geon around, one from a different clan! His name's Granite, he just got back from doing something important, I don't really remember what, but I bet he'd like to go with you! I don't think he's been to space yet! Oh man, space is so great! Though spike is a bit boring after the first few times..."

"Well, if you vouch for him, I'll take anyone willing and able along with me. The kids are doing fine, truly. They've come a long way... though sometimes I wish I'd dropped Jakoby off in a black hole somewhere. Be that as it may, I need some more real crew. I can't rely on these kids for everything. Where is this Granite? I'd like to meet him."

"Oh! Did Jakoby like the slingshot gift I sent him? He'll make a great warrior once he grows a bit! ... Maybe! Anyway, Granite should be around town here somewhere! Look for the geon that looks a bit different from my clanspeople!"

"Yes, yes, he uh... Hold on a," Levi looks away distractedly while Marble is still speaking. "Is that a... JAKOBY! Get off that nice crystal looking thing! That is no way to treat a!..." Quieter, he asks, "Wait, is that a Geon?"

"Well, whadaya know! That's Granite! Told ya he looked different right? Hey Granite, it's me! Marble!" He whips off his prodigious hat and waves it at the other Geon.

Granite, absolutely shell shocked at the child’s action, gently removes the youngling from his person. “I had heard there was extra work... I had no reason to expect that I’d be employed as a jungle gym.” A slow grin moves across his face and a chunking rock filled laugh rushes out of his mouth. “Is this where I sign up then Marble?”

Marble smiles at Granite and winks at Jakoby, "I'm pretty sure Levi wouldn't mind you entertaining the little manling there on the trip! But yeah, this here's Levi, he's pretty great!"

"Levi McClain. Pleasure to meet you. Call me Levi. And yes, this is where you sign up. I'm going north on an expedition and I need more... experienced crew. It's mostly kids with me right now, and I've found the Geon to be steadfast folk. What do you think?"

"Sounds exciting to me. I seem to have developed a taste for open air..." Granite sets down the child and heads over to Levi stretching out his had to shack with the elderly man.

Levi returns the handshake while raising a stern eyebrow to the mischievous young Jakoby. "We're going to talk about this later, young mister. Keep it up and you'll be on dishes duty for a month." He looks back to Granite. "I apologize for his behavior. He's hardly house-broken at this point and has a habit of, well, you saw. Anyways. It sounds like you're on board! Welcome to Boundless!" He gestures behind him to the docked Galleass-class Corvette. "She's the finest ship I've ever been blessed enough to call my own. Are there more like you? More Geon itching for adventure off-world? I have room, I assure you." (edited)

10:48 PM

(For reference, if necessary.) https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/714839691161239582/740588729126748280/unknown.png

“I have a friend or two that might help. I can fetch them before we depart.”

"That sounds perfect. It should round out the skill set and it's always helpful to have more hands. I will be taking off late tomorrow; the kids need some time planetside or the Boundless becomes the Restless. I will see you then. It was nice to meet you, Granite."

Granite nods on respect and runs off to fetch his things and his now adventure tested friends Amethyst and Labradorite. (I don’t have anything I needed to do before we leave so I’m fine if we wanna skip a head to departure day)

(I'm following, there was some pretty steady RP going on so i didnt want to interrupt anything)

(Sorry I've been out and under the weather. I think we're both ready to board and get on out of here.) (First stop: Santama Miti. It looks like it doesn't have a WA entry so I assume it's unexplored.)

(Yes nobody has been there. I’ll get a scouting report up)

https://www.worldanvil.com/w/iron-stars-nekosmash/a/santama-miti-location

Santama Miti

1

9:09 PM

(two days of downtime on the way there , as well)

Levi spends his time on the trip to Santama Miti much as he usually does, playing referee for a crew comprised mainly of kids under the age of 15. When he can, he spends time getting acquainted with his new Geon companions as well. Upon arrival to the system, he lets out a low whistle through his teeth as he looks over the initial scans. "Very interesting. Very. Here, look here, Granite. It says they're classified broadly as a Tech Level 3 system. That gets me thinking. Either they had space travel and lost it in the Scream, or these people might be descendants of travelers from generations ago. Maybe even a colony seed ship that was sent out here and landed to jump start the planet. We can't tell from here, but we might want to be careful as we get closer. They might be perfectly happy with what they've got and don't want us 'aliens' interfering. Best to be respectful, you know." "Let's bring it in towards that planet, and run scans to see if they're broadcasting anything up to space as we approach. We ought to use official channels, if we can."

Granite spends his time trying to determine how such small and soft creatures like the children can man such a ship. Between playing with the children and asking a large amount of questions from the captain, He believes he may never fully understand the fleshy creatures. “Tech 3? Seed colony? sigh… I’m not sure what I expected when I signed up for this mission captain, but I’m starting to think my people have spent too much time with their heads in the dirt. After a moment of reflection he continues. “I guess it would be wise to take the respectful and soft approach.”

There are numerous small villages scattered around the green spaces here where an introduction might be made. The planet otherwise seems like the climate is challenging and is just as capable of killing as angry locals

7:16 AM

(I'll draw up a map now that ive got my computer going again)

2

(Here you are Kings)

"Only a few real looking settlements down there. Must be tough living here in the cold. Cornatopia looks a good a place as any. Let's try to reach out on a broadband wave and see if they pick anything up down there." Levi points to one of the ship's comm stations. "Why don't you sit over there and give that a try, Granite? Just talk into that mic and be friendly."

A little nervous, Granite moves over to the comm. “Whats the name of our ship again?” cough Ashamed of his forgetfulness Granite presses the the comm button. “Greetings, this is Granite of the NMC. We are visiting your planet on a peaceful exploration mission. If you can, please respond…” (edited)

There is a crackle on the line as something tries to connect, and fails

“Captain? Do you think we can get a little closer, maybe that will help their signal.” (edited)

"Yes, let's get closer. Maybe see if we can dial in that frequency a bit better, too. Whoever they are, they have something capable of reaching out."

The connection seems to stabilize a bit once low orbit is reached but it is still fuzzy. Someone is speaking down there, but its impossible to clean the signal enough to accurately hear what they're saying.

"Is there any way to pin down where it's coming from?" He asks the crew. "If we can find that, let's land there. Otherwise I'd be in favor of heading for that main settlement, Cornatopia."

Granite nods in agreement. And transmits the message again adding…. “…We are having trouble reading you, can you boost your signal?”

There is still nothing happening on the ground .THey've seemed to have exhausted their options. The signal is coming from Cornatopia

"Sounds like the only way we're getting through is in person. That's my preferred method, anyways. I like meeting the people, shaking hands, getting a feel for the place. Alright, folks. Let's get Boundless landed and parked at Cornatopia, nice and non-threatening-like."

“You’re probably right captain. Let’s go down to the surface and see who we can make contact with. We should probably have one of the children monitor the com just in case. “

Levi makes the arrangements to get the ship landed at a suitable location near Cornatopia.

There is a large field that looks fallow about 2 kilomiters from the city and landing there does not seem like it will flatten any crops or ruin anything

Once the Boundless sets down, Levi instructs his kids to stay put until he gives them an all clear, and heads down to the gangway to exit the vessel, meeting Granite along the way. "How are you feeling? You ready to meet the locals?" Without waiting for an answer, Levi opens the hatch to expose them to the world below, and whatever awaits them.

Granite nods and follows suite sparing a quick glance to his companions Amethyst and Labradorite. “We shouldn’t belong…” he says over his shoulder as he exits the craft fully expecting this rock to be just like any other.

A few farmers are beginning to gather coming over from other parts of the fields. Their pitchforks and scythes are in slack hands, no use against a starship or the explorers with children coming out of it. Not an invasion then, which has them more at ease

Granite awkwardly steps in front of the growing crowd and tries to smile. “Ah… Hello everyone, we are peaceful explorers from a neighboring system… How are you… all…?”

“What’s yer name rocky?” One of them asks through a mouth of rotten peg like teeth

(Sounds like we got ourselves a wise guy.) Levi looks on approvingly at Granite. "You're doing fine! Off to a good start," he says quietly and urges him to continue.

“I am Granite, and the crew of the Boundless and I are here to find out how you came to be one this planet, as well as if you might want to join us in reclaiming this forgotten part of the galaxy. “

These farmers are less then adequate to give a history of their people aside from generations of them have been living here it seems. "Might wanna talk to the guvmen, in the city there. Probally already comng ou here way you came down n all, big ol comet and yewwwwww!" The others all take up the cry of excitement

3

Silently hoping the governing body comes both quickly and unarmed, granite replies to the farmer. “I guess we can wait for them to come this way…” Not sure to what to expect Granite seems reluctant to lose sight of the ship and his crew should the government or the locals prove to be hostile.

A rooster tail of dust on the horizon announces the approach of some kind of ground vehicle. It’s not much more modern than the tractors and farming tools you see In the fields here but it looks official. The explorer pulls off to the side of the road. Three soldiers emerge along with someone who looks like a constable or sheriff

"Ah, here we are, Granite. This looks promising." Levi puts on his most friendly and disarming smile while the unnamed authority figure makes his way over. "You've done well so far, and I can help here with this next part. I'm right with you."

Granite nods with growing respect for the captain. “Hello, I assume you’re in charge here?” Granite says to the approaching authority.

"I am the constable to this region of outside-wall. Nice to meet you, what are your names? "

"Ah, Constable. I'm Levi McClain of the New Moon Cooperative, and this here is Granite. Quite nice to meet you. Sure is cold down here in your neck of the 'verse. Must be hardy folk to make a living out here."

"Indeed there is. We've been on this world for generations, ever since the first days of human expansion out into the wider universe. Like those first settlers, we continue tilling the land and foraging the forests, ranching creatures and pulling minerals from the ground. Life here is perfect, and beautiful"

"Sounds like it is. I take it that you don't see many boats like mine around here, do you?"

“Nothing like yours. Not in a very long time. Five years at least”

"I see, I see... Now, forgive me if this is a bit forward. Do you or those among you have any desire to return to the stars? I don't know much about your beautiful planet yet, but I didn't see any sort of space infrastructure. That leads me to believe maybe you're landlocked here. I am, by no means, trying to change anything about your way of life. If you are happy as you are, then I wish you the very best here. There's a lot to be said for peace and an honest day's work. I could use more simple days myself... But, I thought I would ask. If you have any desire, we can connect you with the New Moon Cooperative. Be it for trade or for transport, we could find some way to make this a mutually beneficial arrangement."

“I think you boys better come with me!” He says loudly before making a gesture indicating that you should follow him, away from prying ears

(Did you just assume a rock's gender? triggered) "You kids be good, and we'll be back before too long. Eddy is in charge until we get back." Levi gives Granite a nod and gestures to the constable and begins to follow.

Granite warily follows suit after a long worried look at the ship. we shouldn’t be in too much trouble…

Heading into his vehicle, the engine turns over and he begins backing up from the site where you've come down. "Alright fellas, I'm gonna lay it to you nice and level. People inside the city, they don't want what you want. They're in power so long as we remain on this frost-ball. You offerin to get people out of here and out of under their thumb. They're not gonna like it"

”this may be more complicated than we thought…” Sitting uncontrollably in the vehicle granite drops and pretense of “the soft approach” “And what side do you fall on?” Granite says as he takes note of the forces in the vehicle with him.

"I serve the people, not the people elected to lead them. I want what's best"

"So maybe your pitch can start with me. What do you think is good about the COoperative, and space?

"Well," Levi starts, then clears his throat. "Granite here didn't even know the Cooperative existed until quite recently, so I suppose that leaves me. And maybe I should start with this, instead. We aren't here on your planet as official ambassadors of the Cooperative, nor is our goal to snatch you up and declare this a colony for the crown. Granite and I are simply explorers affiliated with the Cooperative. If there were no intelligent life down here on this planet, we still would have stopped and explored and cataloged our findings. Finding you all making a living down here on this planet is a pleasant surprise." "So... About the Cooperative. They're not perfect; none of us are. But in all my years of experience within and without the Cooperative, I can say they are doing their best and they're doing right by me. This past year has been one of major regrowth. You may not be familiar with the Fleshshaper scourge, but they hit the Cooperative the heaviest of all. They only knew one thing: Consume. They ate entire worlds and turned them into more war machines. We are now properly on the track to recovering. Aligning this world with the Cooperative would benefit both parties on the whole, but as you said, those in charge would fight against losing their authority."

"You might not be here to make a colony today, or perhaps not even soon, but surely the Cooperative is going to want something in exchange for bringing us to space. I am just a simple sheriff but I understand getting to space is a big operation and lots of smart people need to be involved in something like that. I am having trouble taking you on good faith that it is just something you are going to give with no expectation of a matching pay-back. There's always debt and debtors"

"I can assure you whatever arrangement is made would not ask something of you that you're unable to provide. The Cooperative are not warmongers bent on galactic domination. You have a choice. If you don't make a deal, the Cooperative won't knock down your castle and take it. You are free to live as you please."

“As the captain said, I am new to the Cooperative, but they do seem honorable…”

“If the decision was mine I’d have you boys here as soon as you could come. Worried about the town alderman though. He’s not gonna like the change. Becomes a lot less important with you guys in the mix”

"Well, I'm not here to start a riot or interfere where I don't belong. I'll do whatever you think is best for you and your people. I'd prefer to keep the peace."

“That’s all I am asking too. I’d be happy to bring you in to see the alderman but I can’t guarantee his reaction being something that makes sense. I don’t want to bring you boys into trouble you’re not ready for”

"I believe we can handle ourselves if need be, but I can't stand against an entire armed regiment, if that's what we're up against. I can speak with your alderman. I have to trust in his good nature not to assault strangers simply for talking. I'll be forthright and true, as I hope you see I've been with you. Is that enough? What do you advise?"

"He would not assault you just for talking, that much is true, but depending on what you say it might be taken as sedition, not just talking"

7:44 AM

"Which may land you into the fighting against an armed regiment, that you're trying to avoid"

Levi sighs and stays silent for a moment, lost in thought. "Granite? I understand you're not an expert on interplanetary politics, but I want to hear from you. What do you feel about this?"

“If the people of this planet need help… we should offer it… but I fear doing so would start a war. Maybe there is some way we could negotiate a treaty that would make the alderman feel like it was his idea .”

"You might have some luck with that. You won't find out until you speak with him and by then it will be too late if the meeting does not go as planned"

Granite looks over towards Levi. "These people deserve to know there is more out there... but I'm not willing to risk our crew to do it. If its unlikely that the Alderman will listen to us easily, maybe it would be better to wait until and Official NMC representative can be sent to treat with the Alderman."

"Ah, but with the narrow and costly victory against the Etxaurren Empire and the Phemno Mining Guild, I doubt that sending an ambassador is a top priority for them. We're here now, for better or worse. Maybe if we can provide some token of goodwill... Help out in some way that they can't help themselves." (edited)

“Maybe… What if we drop some supplies and data pads from the ship? Then the people can make their own decisions. It may start a civil war, but it would accomplish our goals of helping people and giving them the choice of what to do next without us getting hurt.”

Levi smiles fondly. "That's a nice thought, but I'm not sure it will solve any problems for them. Civil war isn't exactly a consequence I'm willing to risk either. I was thinking of something more 'hands-on' if you know what I mean." He turns back to the constable. "How about this. Is there some way we can provide a benefit to you and yours? Are there any local troubles that are within our power to assist?"

"You boys know anything about irrigation? Big set of problems with that of late"

“My kind has great experience with digging, but little with agriculture. We could provide muscle, but little else I’m afraid. Captain?”

(seen, didnt want to cut levi off)

(Yeah sorry. Vacation times have been busier than I anticipated.) "I have some small experience from a past life, but I won't claim to be an expert. We have manpower and a willingness to help though. Can you be more specific with the issues? Or show us?"

“Well, some of the local council. They’ve diverted water from the irrigation lake to fill their own reserve ponds near their residences. Basically making us work harder to water our crops so their view is kept up and property values stay high. A couple folks from off world the security cams wouldn’t be able to ID , who just so happen to blow up their flow diverting gates so the water fills up the irrigation channels here instead? You’d be heroes to the common man

"Sounds like that would deepen the schism between the common folk and those up on their hill... But I can't ignore the irresponsible ill-gotten vanity of their water-stealing. Stealing water ruins lives, plain and simple. I'm on board to get my hands dirty, but I can't speak for all of us." The honorable Reverend Levi looks to Granite.

With a pulse of anger the energy stored in Granites crystals flashes briefly. “So they harm those they should protect for their own vanity?…” After a few breathes and silent moments Granite simply nods. The electrical charges in his crystalline body slowing to their normal heartbeat like rhythm. “It will be done…”

The vehicle abruptly changes direction. "I can bring you to the mouth of the river before they start to wonder where I've gone. You'll have to climb yourselves from there, and destroy the flood gates on the way up. I shouldn't expect they'd be that difficult to destroy if you manage to make the climb. Their inaccessibility is the real defense"

Granite looks over at Levi and nods, the electrical current in his crystals pulsing strong with determination.

"So we won't need any explosives? I certainly didn't bring any with me off the ship, but I have a well stocked armory... If you think they can be taken down without blowing it up, then we're ready." (Is it possible I have my Void Warden SamaelTech staff with me? I didn't specifically say I brought it with me. As a Vowed, I'd still be fine unarmed if having the staff doesn't make sense.) (edited)

(you have the staff, and will not need explosives)

(Then I think we're ready for insertion)

(Would I have my rifle on me then?)

(any gear you want from the ship you can get before he drives you up there)

(Then I've got my normal backpack and SamaelTech staff)

Everyone is packed and prepared. Driving up into the low mountain range is a quiet ride. You pass thick alpine forests and follow the run-off channels from the river. Birds circle lazily overhead, tracking the progress of the vehicle and people inside who will feed them. The animals here seem to have no fear of people. After a half hour drive, you're brought as high up the mountain as the Constable is able to bring you. "Alright. Well, a half day's climb should take you to this afternoon, and the first of the five flood gates you need to smash. Then you can just follow the river down. THey might send something, or someone, out once the second one breaks -they'll know its not just a malfunction then"

“If they send some one to stop us… I won’t be willing to pull my punches if it comes down to us or them. Are you alright with that constable?”

"Do what needs to be done. They will have made their choice trying to stop you"

"Well then, let's get to hiking. I will avoid bloodshed, if it's possible. I'm here to help, first and foremost. Killing folk rarely makes things better. Bible says a thing or two about murder, but it's a little fuzzy about broken bones and knocking people out." Levi climbs out of the vehicle and thanks the Constable, ready to be on his way up the hill. When it seems they're set, he strikes out in the direction the Constable gave.

Granite follows with little word, but his crystals pulse softly with determination.

You both move into the woods following the rough road moving northward. Several animal bones are scattered along the path, along with the discarded casings from shotguns

Levi walks along through the forest with his priceless artifact staff becoming an undignified walking stick to help him traverse the way forward. "You see these, Granite?" He gestures at the wasteful remains of hunting. "These people are out here hunting for no other reason than to have a bit of sport killing defenseless animals... It makes me sick. They even left behind their shells to defile the place! If you're going to hunt, you use the whole animal so it has a purpose. Killing it just to leave rotting in the forest is..." Levi exhales forcefully through his nose. "Lord, give me strength."

Granite follows along taking in the scenery. Being still unaccustomed to seeing green plants and blue sky he’s almost captivated by the sight. “The more I hear about these supposed leaders, the more I dislike them. A leader is supposed to look after their clan, not push them to despair. I don’t know if that law man would be any better, but at least we can know that these leaders are not good for these people…” (edited)

Rounding the first pass leading up the mountain you can see many X's sprayed on the trees and what looks to be equipment for clearing forest. This forest is remote, and distant from civilization and a note has been nailed to one of the trees stating that for the crimes of the locals foraging in this forest without permissions of the landed elite, the forest will be removed to ensure no one can use it without authorization

Pulsing with anger Granite rips down the note from the tree and crumples it before throwing it down to the ground. “Captain, do you think we could disable the logging equipment?” Nothing to give us away, but something that would halt the forest clearing?” (Does there seem to be anyone around working, or are the machines abandoned?)

(It looks like the machines have been placed here for later use, but no one is here with them now)

Levi gives a smirk. "I don't think it would be too hard to crawl underneath and dislodge a few things... Wouldn't be visible damage until you start looking for why it won't start. I think that could be a very worthwhile use of our time. Let's try it." Levi begins making his way towards the equipment to see if he can subtly disable it.

A missing spark plug here, some wires that are snipped there, it is possible to quietly disable most of this equipment at least for a time, but the forest will eventually fall if it is simply tampered with

Moving through the machines Granite sets to subtly disabling the logging equipment. Cutting wires, removing some bolts and even removing some power supplies all in hopes that the equipment will break mid use for maximum damage. (edited)

(fix/int)

(5)

Some of the tools are broken but not many. Some are one piece and too thick to smash on your own

After spending some time working on the machines Granite returns to Levi with a sense of satisfaction. “We should probably hurry. That took longer then I’d hoped, but hopefully it was helpful…”

It seems for now, this is the best that can be done and you continue your climb, moving down the trail and through denser woods where even the nobles have not yet hunted. You can hear the sounds of animals here, and more importantly the sound of flowing water. The first of the locks is close by, through the dense wilds off the road.

10:25 AM

The terrain will become steeper and climbing will be necessary later, it seems

“If we are getting close to the water, maybe we should talk plans before we get too much closer, Captain.”

"Plans, I agree with. Until I've seen this thing, however... I'm not sure I can plan for much until I've laid eyes on it. My general idea was to just come in quiet like we've been doing and find its weak spot when we're on it. If we run into people, we ought to decide if they're a threat or not before we just take them out. Shoot first and ask questions later has landed me in some tough spots before..."

Granite nods. “Right. Slow and steady. Geons can be great sprinters, but are lost over great distances. So it would be best to avoid big trouble.”

(I see the Gimli quote in there

) "Well there's no avoiding it... Let's get to climbing and see what we're up against."

With a nod of determination Granite begins the quiet climb to their destination, the first of the dams.

The woods thicken as does the sound of rushing water. You can see the first of the flood gates channeling water from its intended path down a dry river bed to some sort of large pipe system that sends the water to the noble estates instead.

Levi spends a minute quietly observing from a hidden stand in the woods, looking for any signs of trouble around the gates. If the coast looks clear, he signals to Granite to move up with him straight to the flood gates themselves.

Granite follows with great focus and determination.

(Need anymore info?)

(No just tryting to figure out what i wanted to do next)

12:27 PM

There does not seem to be anyone around at this lowest of the gates. You can hear the sounds of rushing water though it prevents you from hearing anything, even yourselves talking to one another as you close the last 40m

Granite motions to the captain that he will keep look out while the captain sets the charges. (While he’s moving into position I’d like to climb a tree or something to gain some elevation for sniper shots and look out.)

(It's my recollection that we didn't grab charges because we were told we didn't need them. So we'll have to do this the 'ol manual way. Little bit of spit and elbow grease.)

(that is correct, wasnt needed, they'd just smash)

8:02 AM

Granite takes advantage of his elevated position to get a good look at the surrounding forest. Right now it is quiet, but it might get busy once the overseers elsewhere realize something is wrong with their drainage system

"Leaving the old man to do the hard stuff, I see..." Levi chuckles before heading to the gate. He uses his precious artifact staff for the very dignified work of righteous vandalism; he smashes, pries, and leverages the surrounding terrain to help him break through the blockage.

The wood and metal gate and the simple electronic radio controls keeping it open and closed are nothing compared to the might of your artifact staff and fervor at doing the right thing. After several moments of smashing the integrity of the dam is worn away enough and the force of the water behind it does the rest. Large pieces are carried away as the current begins to rise, now split between both channels

(There were more of these, right?)

(Yeah, 2 more, higher up and more guarded/important to diverting the water)

Pleased with the immediate results, Levi trails back to Granite and calls up to him over the sound of rushing water. "I'd suggest getting out of here, and quickly! Let's find the next one before we're caught here!"

Granite nods sliding down from his perch. “Remind me to not pick a fight with you…”. Briskly granite moves towards the next gate.

The mountainside is steep and the constable mentioned a climb would be needed following the river's path to the remaining two locks. Moss and mist begin to blanket the area as you get close to the cliff base. Flags showing the lines maintaining workers use to climb are visible on the mountainside, highlighted in reflective yellow fabric. A large heavy duty chest marked MAINTAINING sits at the foot of the cliff, with a simple key lock on it

"Hey, you see that? I wonder what they're keeping in that," pointing at the chest. He idly looks at the cliff face while scratching his scruffy chin. "Oh. I bet it's their climbing equipment. Like the safety harnesses and other bits you need to scale that. What do you say we find a way into this lock, huh? If there's a safer way up this cliff face, I'm all for it." Levi moves up and removes his backpack while he inspects the lock more closely.

(Would be a sneak/dex to pick , or it could be smashed)

(That's a big ol' 5.) Levi digs through his pack for some kind of makeshift lockpicking tools or anything to help him get in non-destructively. After coming back with utensils from his mess kit and failing to find anything that actually fit the lock, he rattles the whole chest in frustration. "I've got nothing, Granite. I think we'll just have to smash this to get in. I was hoping not to, but we have to get the job done somehow."

(seen, jkust didnt want to cut granite off, since he might have some ideas)

Granite looks around for a sizable rock to smash the lock. After finding a sizable candidate of decent composition he nods at the captain to stand back as he unleashes he’s geon furry.

8:11 PM

(Sorry guys, busy days)

(It's ok, you just turned 30, which means you start moving a bit slower and it's all downhill from here.)

(Hey, you’re next.

)

(Sshhh

)

There is a metallic ping as the locking ring shatters. The chest is opened easily revealing climbing equipment, axes, and survival backpacks with atmofilters and a spare bottle of air if needed. The mountain is tall and the air must be thin near the top.

“Have you used any of this stuff before Captain? I’m not too familiar with some of these…” Hoping the captain will help him gear up for the climb Granite takes a few minutes to don the equipment and prepaid for the assent.

"Yes, but never on someone with your sort of... anatomy. We'll see if we can get these to fit you well enough." Hoping the harnesses can be adjusted suitably, he helps Granite get settled before gearing himself up for the climb.

After several minutes of attacking the harness granite is ready to climb, if a little uncomfortable. Having some experience climbing though granite looks for his first hand holds and begins to climb with little fuss.

A low hum on the horizon and a dust cloud signals some sort of ground vehicle has arrived. You can hear dogs barking, and the shouts of the pack handler as his animals see to have picked up some kind of scent. You worked quickly, and you should be moving further away by time they catch up to you. (exert/str, for both of you, and we'll be off)

(Got that old man strength. 10)

(Ouch…6)

The both of you begin your climb, with Levi leading the way. From below you can hear the sounds of dogs coming close but it seems like the trackers are a bit slowed themselves, and as they begin yapping at the base of the cliffside, you are already within the rock and vegetation above, and are firmly out of sight. They know someone is up there who shouldn't be, and can guess your plan, but it will take some time for them to find an alternate way up. The climb continues as the dogs peel off,and after another half hour you can hear the sound of rushing water. Hauling yourselves over a cliffside to stand on flat rock, you see a large holding pool collecting water frm a small mountain waterfall here, blocked in by another one of the gates

“We better stick together on this one… doesn’t seem like those dogs will be too far behind and we might have to get out of here quickly…”

"Agreed. We'll make short work of this together, then disappear and hopefully lose them... Though they may know where we're headed next and cut us off. Either way, let's get to it." Levi unhooks himself from the climbing gear and jogs ahead with Granite to dismantle the small dam.

This gate is made of the same materials, meant to hold water and the weight of it back, but not meant to handle repeated blows from rocks, staves, and tools. Cracks widen, water surges through, and the release of pressure does the rest, carrying the broken pieces down the mountain- and diverting even more water back toward the farmlands.

“We better not push out luck. If we head to the next dam we’ll surely have to get rough with some of the locals…”

"If we get there and it looks too hot, we may have to revisit our strategy... I don't want to get myself into something I can't get back out of again. Our anonymity is our friend, here. Let's just worry about getting there first." With that said, Levi gathers his things and heads off toward the last gate.

Granite follows while keeping a keen eye out for their pursuers.

The final lock is set above you near the peak where the first of the snow melt forms the flowing river that leads down slope. You can see three figures and a dog, bundled for the conditions , 50m of you. The wind kicks up snow and they don’t seem to have seen you yet

“What do you think Captain. I think we could take them, but if this takes too long, we might be in a bit of trouble…”

"I don't like it, personally... They've got the numbers advantage and the high ground. We'd have to do something to even the odds, I think. But as you said, we're pressed for time. Have any brilliant ideas?"

(seen, ended in a question, dont want to cut anything off)

“Not any ideas that won’t hurt any one… These guards are just doing a job, and since we didn’t want to start a civil war, it would probably be best if we left now.”

"No...." Levi exhales loudly through his nose. "That won't do. We came all this way to do this, we're going to do it right." He hefts his SamaelTech staff and grips it tighter. "We need to take care of them quickly AND quietly or we'll just let the whole valley know we're here. But, BUT... We don't make lethal blows. I'm going to trip them and give them a nasty headache while I knock them out, but they will wake up. You're right, they're just doing a job." He looks up at the guards and back to Granite. "Are you coming with me?"

Granite nods with determination. “Then let’s do this together.” The crystals making up Granite’s body begin to glow, the electrical current within them beginning to crackle cause Ing small tendrils of electricity to escape the conductive rock. (Commuting effort to use static thrusters. Movement spd increased by 10m and can jump my full movement in any direction, which ends the effect of I’m not mistaken.)

(1 Effort is used to maintain Static Thrusters for the extra move speed, an additional Effort is spent on top of that to do the leap. If you deactivate the maintained technique, you get the Effort back.)

1

(initiative, they're not instantly hostile but this helps me keep track of who is doing what when)

(3)

(5 for them)

1:04 PM

The militia spots you, and the dog handler sends his hound racing forward 20m (30m from you now) to try to drag one of you down. The others hold their fire for the moment, as neither of you appear armed yourselves and their first instinct is not to just kill random trespassers

(I think out of the two of you Levi has the higher dex, but i know hes traveling this week , just noting it for when there is time)

(Sorry for being the worst. I'll be better daddy, I promise.) "Gah! And just like that, this is over before it even started...." Levi looks around at his surroundings, weighing his limited options. Run in and get gunned down... Knock the dog out and we still get gunned down... Run and hide, the dog finds us, and then we're gunned down... Surrender... well, maybe... "I... I'm sorry Granite. I think we have to give up here. I didn't bring a gun and they're going to put holes in us before we even get halfway there. I'll try to talk them down and we can strike when we have the element of surprise." Levi looks at his partner for approval, ready to raise his hands in surrender if it's agreed.

“We did just blow up two dams that the elite were using to subjugate the populace…. And these rulers don’t seem to be the forgive and forget type… we should probably make a run for it.”

"Running only makes us look guilty... and they might just shoot us before we make it to cover." He looks around again while the dog bounds closer and closer. "I... I'm sorry; we have to live." In resignation, Levi throws his hands in the air as a sign of surrender and calls out. "Don't shoot! This is a mistake!" (Assuming another round has probably passed with all the talking time.)

Granite grumbles, unwilling to leave the captain behind he sighs and does the same. “I hope you know what you’re doing Captain…. This could still get ugly before it’s all over.”

"Hands where we can see them! we dont want to kill you but we will if you give us no choice!" one calls back to you. The dog handler blows a whistle and the hound veers off, running back to its owners at the signal

"I hope I do too," he says quietly, mostly to himself. Levi complies with the command, but appears to stumble and catch himself on his "walking stick." Hunched over, one arm is wrapped around the staff that's dug into the ground for support, the other held high in surrender.

"What are you doing out here? Did you have something to do with the sabotage? You ran from us on the lower peaks!"

"Sabotage?... Run? We've been lost out here for days! This has to be a misunderstanding! We've been climbing to try to get a better vantage point to find our way back, that's all! Please!"

"How come you're wearing climbing gear from the forest patrol?"

10:20 AM

He stiffens his grip a little but doesnt seem to be in a hurry to draw the weapon

Granite glances between the guards and Levi. ”…simple travelers …. This could work….” “We borrowed it. I hope that was ok. We can pay for the gear if needed…”

"As I said, sir, we've been trying to get a better vantage point of the valley to figure out where we are... we're just trying to get home."

'Then why did you run and not ask us for help?"

"To be fair... We had just broken into your climbing equipment and stolen it to ascend the mountain. I didn't want to wait around and find out what you do with thieves. When we saw men with guns... Well, you can see how we'd be frightened. We were desperate."

"That...makes sense. You're going to have to come with us down the mountain. We might have some more questions for you"

(If they get within melee range with their guard down, I intend to start a fight. We're not going anywhere with them lol.)

(They’re planning on detaining you so if it looks like you’re cooperating until you get that close I don’t think they’d shoot

(Initiative? Or will I just get a free shot as they get close?)

(You’ll get a surprise round )

(Holy nat20 batman) The old man Levi keeps up his ruse as the men come closer to detain him, leaning heavily on his staff for "support." With a quick look over at Granite, he signals "Now!" with raised eyebrows and a terse nod of the head. Levi jumps the closest guard to close the distance and lashes out with his staff, intending to lock him up and knock him off-balance to prevent immediate retaliation. (37/23 non-lethal if possible) Using his momentum and old man strength, he gives a mighty shove with the leverage of the staff and throws the first guard at the second one. (Committing Vowed Effort to use Hurling Throw. He has to pass a physical save or be thrown 10 feet and knocked prone.)

(Not sure if you want Granite's turn before or after resolving my action)

The unsuspecting guard is thrown , cartwheeling across the sky at the sudden reversal of momentum. (Yeah granite would also get the surprise round. He can take that now)

(Is the guard still up? I smacked him good)

(He is 10m away from you and prone, and unconscious, was just waiting to see what granite does)

(WWN class being weird and using feet instead of meters. I guess it would be a roughly 3m throw.)

(He’s down either way or however the distance. Just need granites move)

As one guard goes flying Granite looks to the next closest guard. ”Yeah getting captured didn’t seem fun anyways…” The air around Granite begins to crackle as he moves with lightning speed up to the nearest guard and moves to punch. (3/3)

9:09 AM

(Natural 1...boo)

The guards are stunned at the sudden reversal. One moment they had been preparing to detain suspects and now find themselves in the middle of a swirling melee. (initiative, since that was our surprise round) Two guards and their trusty tracking hound prepare to retaliate and attempt to fulfill their noble-given remit

(That's a fat 2)

(7)

(Granite, guards, Levi)

After missing with his first punch granite jumps onto the guard trying to wrestle his gun out of his hands and disarm him.

(okay so for a disarm, we need a weapon attack, and if it hits there is an exert/str check that the guard will oppose with a check of his own)

(Just a straight weapon attack no modifiers?)

(A normal weapon attack with the relevant mods)

^

(13 to hit and 15 for the check)

The gun goes cartwheeling away out of everyone's grasp. With one guard down, another disarmed and the third in melee where his rifle is useless , he and the dog try to pile into the fight to help their comrades. The dog is unable to chomp down with enough force to break armor or the skin beneath. (last guard has to spend his main action to club up his rifle so it can be used as a melee weapon, so LEvi is up)

Levi steps up closer to the last guard and thumps him hard in the stomach while wrapping a leg around to trip him and send him straight down to the ground, knocking the wind out of him. (Natural 2

+17 to hit though

️ ) (19/15)

1

He is thrown and knocked unconscious and without handlers the dog breaks away from the scuffle and races off into the woods

(So there's a disarmed but still conscious guard up, right?)

11:37 AM

(If so, that means Granite is up again unless I'm mistaken)

(Yes, granite is up)

(Am I on top of the disarmed for?)

(We disarmed him. If we wanted to knock him down we would need another exert /str, which would be your main action. Forcing enemy movement and disarming someone are two different moves , both needing main actions to complete)

(ah i see)

2:15 PM

Granite lifts his hands in a non threatening position and address the last guard. "We don't want to hurt you human... just let us go and you wont be hurt."

He nods, looking out at the handy dispatchment of his comrades. He does not speak

“Captain, any chance that ship of yours could come pick us up from here?” Granite spares a quick glance to the captain and then again to the guard. Slowly moving to position himself between the guard and the fallen gun. “Don’t try any thing too crazy…” he remarks to the guard, hands still in a non threatening position.

Levi is still in fight mode when Granite speaks. He scans the surroundings for more danger before relaxing slightly to bring his attention back to the people in front of him. He relaxes his grip and posture on the staff and sets it in the ground as a walking stick once more. "Now, there's two ways this could go. You help us with our goal and things go smoothly for everyone. The second option involves a nap and a headache for you. How do you want to do this?"

"I won't betray the Lords. They'll take everything from me, and my family" he says, sitting upright but he still has not risen to its feet

Levi lets out a long sigh. "Have it your way." With no further ceremony, he knocks the wind out of the guard and whacks him on the head to give him an unwanted nap. (I could roll if needed, but I figured there's not much chance for failure here.)

(Wasn't going to ask for one, you're good)

The electrical whir around Granite dissipates and he lowers his hands. A little stunned he turns to the captain. “Well, that went better than expected, time to blow up a dam and run?”

"I think it's past time for that, let's finish this." Levi begins the final ascent and relays a message back to his ship to prep for take off.

Crew,

I'm attaching our coordinates. Our window is limited here and we need you to extract us as soon as you are able. Please provide an ETA when you can.

The crew returns an estimate of fifteen minutes- needing to enter the atmosphere and then streak down to your position. They'll be able to get you out before an effective response is rallied from the manor homes below. The dam you were sent to break is nearby, easy to find through the light woods based on the sounds of rushing water and the spray of cold droplets in the air.

"Sounds like just enough time to blow this last objective. You ready?"

"Let's go, then. Before anyone else catches wind of what we're doing." Levi wastes no time and strikes out to ascend the final leg of their journey.

With resistance quelled and your ship on the way the final tidal lock is easy to find and dispatch. Several quick blows break aside the locking@mechanism and the force of the rushing water is freed. Down below, farmers will get the first water that hasn’t fallen as rain or been stolen from other sources in years.

9:27 AM

The ship appears on the horizon burning it’s engines hot to get to your position. The ramp is already lowering as it levels off and begins to come in for landing

“Time to go Captain! I guess we’ll have to just radio the Sherif. I imagine going back to yawn won’t end well.

Levi waits until they've both boarded again before responding. Once the hatch shuts, it's time to make a decision. "We could just leave, yes. But I'm trying to imagine the consequences of what we just did. You know those nobles are going to be looking for someone to blame. They're going to see it as an act of vandalism and quickly seek to correct the situation. They'll likely just undo what we did with no lesson learned, and the common folk will suffer for it. I think we need to make a stand for those who cannot stand for themselves. I believe that maybe we should stay with the town until the nobles come down and we have a 'chat' with them regarding their behavior. Otherwise, I fear we may have just stuck a band-aid on a situation that needs surgery. What do you think?"

Granite shrugs looking obviously conflicted as he waivers back and forth be fore answering. “I think that is a just and noble action… but I thought we didn’t want to start a civil war. We cannot win this conflict for them. If we don’t tread carefully we will get caught up in this cave in with no way out…”

(Caught up, just didnt want to interrupt this)

"We do have one major advantage... we carry the bigger stick. We have a ship with space-grade weaponry that nothing on this planet can match. Not only that, we are representing the New Moon Cooperative here. While this isn't a Cooperative world that we can impose its authority on, there is a criminal injustice being done here to the population. We won't stand for it, and if they don't comply, then they'll be replaced."

“A grin slowly emerges on Granite face as he finally understands the full scope of the captains plans. “I’ve gained a new level of respect for you captain.” With a smerk granite quickly gathers his gear and readies himself for what will surly be a tense fight against a leadership that will soon be loosing their subjects.

Levi directs the ship back to the town and lands nearby, ready to go pay the people another visit and warn them of what might be coming. He gathers his gaggle of younglings and exits with them down the gangway.

Granite walls out with the crew fully armed and ready for action. A grin plastered on his face as he can almost taste the justice in the air. ”Today… Tyrants will be toppled. Hope will be restored. And all will be made right.”

The locals are gathering , minus the Constable who is likely swamped in paperwork and all kinds of other concerns right now. There are about fifty here now, scattered between a few family units.

As the ship lands Granite nods to the captain and disembarks. Seeing the states of the crowed, he raises his metallic voice so that everyone can hear. “Citizens! We have reason to believe that your government will be headed this way shortly with military force. Can someone get the constable? I recommend that you go home or even flee the city until the Constable and I can defuse the situation. If we are unsuccessful, there may be violence. If you wish to fight for your freedom, you do so at your own risk, but with our help. Now is your time to rise up against the unjust and fight for a better life!”

By now rumors of what has happened up in the mountainside are beginnng to circulate here, the Constable passed through on his way down and was adroit in ensuring people heard about what you were doing. an elderly man in the group has a radio at home, and hobbles off to call the Constable, but to their credit, you can see everyone else looks willing to fight. Those without firearms use scythes and pitchforks in place of rifles or the family hunting shotgun

Levi, looking a bit unsettled by the impending violence, decides to speak up. "Now, listen here! We don't want to start a fight. Our goal is not to murder those living on the hill. If we can settle this peacefully, we will. We'll arbitrate an agreement for everyone to live by. You're right to be angry, of course. Stealing water is inhumane! Lord knows you've been done a great disservice. But... I will not stand by and let violence be the first answer. I intend to straighten this out without so much as a shot. As me and mine were the party responsible for breaking their property, we will meet them and turn their ire towards us and not you," he says while gesturing to the crowd. "If they're unwilling to accept our terms... well. We'll just see what happens next. You are right to be prepared; they may shoot first and ask questions later. But until that time comes, I expect all of you to stay your weapons and remain calm. Understood?"

The crowd is less blustery, but understands you're the one who created and solved the past situation. They'll wait to see what happens, either an agreement, or violence from those who live on the hill before anything else happens here.

Granite surveys the crowd, both proud that the people are taking responsibility, but also hoping blood doesn't have to be drawn. He sits patiently for word of the approaching enemy.

Two large busses of degrading repair come down from the homes on the hill. Theyre loaded with men and most of them are armed. A skirmish line forms 20m away as a pair of figures close to the bus address the crowd with a bullhorn. “This is an unlawful assembly! Disperse at once and return to your homes !”

Granite steps to the front of the crowd, his rifle lowered and hand raised in parley.

12:05 PM

"We wish to speak and talk terms, you have our word that no one will be harmed. We just want to talk."

"This is an unlawful assembly!" the order repeats. "Disperse now or you will be fired upon! This is an unlawful act!"

(I know I didn't work this out beforehand, but how far away is the ship? Is it possible they could fire up the engines and it would be loud enough to "make a point" to them? Like Levi would radio back to crew to make some noise. Also, what's the numbers of us vs them? Are we vastly outmanned/outgunned here?)

(You outnumber them 3 to 1 but they massively outgun you, and you could get the ship to do that and it would be heard if you want to see how they take it)

"What's your plan?" Levi yells out to them. "To gun down the entire population? Are you going to pick up their plows once they're gone and till the soil yourself? Let us talk like civilized folk before you do something everyone will regret! Stand DOWN!"

The weapons held by the security troopers rise to level. You’re not sure if they have lethal or non lethal rounds loaded , it’s impossible to tell. “This is an unlawful assembly! Disperse at once or we will fire!” The guard sergeant repeats. He keeps looking at the two more noble looking figures who accompanied them down here and neither seems to be voicing objection with the situation

Levi discreetly signals back to the ship on comms, "Fire it up. We need a show." "You read your Bible? 'Do not forsake the assembling of yourselves' is what mine says!" The reverend looks at the guns trained on them and switches tactics. "If brute force is all you understand, let me put it this way! I stand with the collective might of the New Moon Cooperative behind me! If you fire so much as a single shot, this world will quake with the thunder of our fleet! STAND DOWN, NOW!"" (And now would be a lovely time for the rumble of starship engines for emphasis.)

2

1

There is a thunder and flare of ship engines and the security line takes a few steps back. Their discipline begins to falter and there are breaks in the shield wall that once would have kept the locals out. Abandoning guns, they begin picking up rocks or balling their fists. Years of pent up anger surges from them, and the locals rush the gun line just as the security troopers drop their weapons and turn tail back to the busses. You can tell almost none of them will make it to the safety within.

Lightning crackles through the air as Granite rushes with supernatural speed to the front of the angry settlers. His voice crackling with energy and booming like thunder. “Wait! Arms held out between the fleeing soldiers and their pursuers. “We’ve already won! There is no need to kill your fellow brothers and sisters!”

The closest to you seem to pull short, their blows never falling, though you feel others in the horde circling around where those in the back are still eager to come to grips with those who have oppressed them for so long

(As soon as the commotion starts, Levi would try to hurry towards the two "noble looking figures" if it's possible to reach them before they scurry away or get mobbed. If it's not possible to reach them, I'd at least like to keep a visual on them to see where they went.)

(they were pretty much right in front of the vehicles and would have scurried back inside right away, even with sunblade/vowed arts i think the distance is too big, unless you decide to go inside each bus and drag them out)

Levi ignores the mob, for the most part. He keeps eyes on the important-looking figures as they try to make their escape. He begins moving to the busses when it's clear that that's their destination. He darts inside to confront them before they get a chance to drive away.

They’re the only two on the bus and look shocked you’ve been able to get through the crowd

(And I'm the worst ever, I know. Left it hanging for a week.) (An 18 in STR can get you through anything) Levi stands tall with a straight back and looks down on the nobles. "Are you ready to talk? I am. Let's talk." "I tried, and I mean I really tried to give you a chance to resolve this peacefully. It's obvious that you don't take me seriously, so hear me now: Water is a necessity. Your dams and floodgates stole water from the people here and threatened their very existence. That is unacceptable. What do you have to say for yourself?"

Neither of them have much to say about it thar doesn't sound like blabbering and the poor excuses of weak men. They know they are culpable. They know there is no true excuse for what they've done, and they know their words pale at the task of trying to change your opinion of them.

"That's about what I expected. Pathetic. I bet the two of you put together have never had a hard day's work in your entire life." Levi sighs and looks outside as he ponders what to do. A thought strikes him. "If I were a betting man, I'd put money on you two being pretty low on the totem pole if you had to come down here yourselves. You're just doing what you're told. Middle managers. Sad little kings of a sad little hill. You aren't the guys I want to talk to. I need to have a chat with the real authority. Are you going to help me with that?"

They do not seem to think they have much choice in this situation and agree to help, but need to know what you want to connect you with the right people .

Granite sees His captain duck into one of the government vehicles. Guessing her has a plan, Granite continues to try to soothe the crowd, hopefully preventing a massacre.

"Good lads. Come with me." Levi turns to step back out of the bus and stops on the bottom step. "For your own protection, I'd advise you stay close to me. I won't harm you, but I can't guarantee that for anyone else. You make a run for it and I'll let them have you. Come, quickly now." Levi steps out of the bus and surveys the crowd once again. (How are things looking with our mob right now? Did they just completely wreck all of the guards? Are they still doing violence?)

(They’ve got the guards subdued but violence has stopped. Nobody is dead but a few guards are probably going to be if they don’t get help soon)

"HEY!" Levi bellows to the crowd. "Listen up! The threat is gone for now and there's no need to hurt anyone else!" He spends a moment to let that sink in while he makes eye contact with several individuals. "Look at them." He points to the injured guards. "They need our help now or they'll bleed out where they lay. Keep in mind that these fellows here are just doing a job and making their way in the universe just like you. If we let them die by our own hands then we're no better than the merciless man on the hill." He pauses once again until he sees his words reach them. "Now, I'm going to take these folks here," referring to the two nobles behind him, "and we're going to straighten some things out. You'll see me again soon! Now, hop to it!" Levi heads over to Granite with his nobles in tow. "Well then, that could've gone better. But I'm glad to say it could have gone much worse too. What do you say we find the Constable and see about dragging these sorry sops up to the estates for a chat?"

1

Granite wipes his crystalline sweat and worries from his brow and smiles. “It looks like we’ve avoided a massacre for now captain. Let’s hope our fortune continues and “talking” is all that we have to do on the hill.” Granite begins giving order to the men around him to help injured, confiscate the guards weapons and imprison those who are able to walk. He also asks a runner to find the constable.

You can hear the battered car engine on its way over about fifteen minutes after the runner left. The constable, two of his deputies, and more importantly, their weapons are all arriving on scene and they are somewhat unsure of what they're stepping into now that they see the site of the skirmish.

Levi gives the Constable a deep nod as he arrives. "Welcome, Constable. Sorry for the mess here... Things got a bit 'complicated' once they found the broken dams. They sought to come down and get revenge on the folks here, and I wasn't going to stand by and let that happen. I've tried to stop the bloodshed where I could, but there are lingering grudges that some folks took out on the guards. Got some injured that need mending, but I have another concern right now. I want to head up and talk to the powers here. Would you have any advice on how I should proceed? I'm sure they're quite upset their pretty water features have gone, but I intend to make them understand they can't be stealing water from the honest folks down here. I managed to get a few of their own already." He points to the captured nobles with him.

"I think you're in about as deep as its possible to be. You don't set yourself up for a problem like this if you're a good humanitarian leader like they pretend to be. I think now if we take the guards here hostage, they're going to be feeling pretty weak and unsure. Anything you can package to them as " they're getting something out of the agreement" is probably going to carry you further than just "you have to listen to me because" .

“Got a way to contact Mables or someone in the NMC? Maybe they could negotiate their joining in the NMC or maybe a trade deal. That with their men unharmed might go a long way….”

"I've got a funny feeling that they won't take too kindly to joining the Collective at the moment, on account of us coming in and shaking up the place like we have. But... I suppose it's not entirely up to them, now is it? Maybe the common folk here might like to join and find a way off of this icy rock. Plus, there's a vastly greater number of them than those in 'power.' So maybe you're on to something to consider. Marble wouldn't be much help, though. He's pretty busy on Groa. We would need to bring our proposition before the Collective public assembly next month." Turning his attention back to the Constable, "I appreciate your insight. We do need to bring something to the table to make this a palatable deal for them. I'm afraid that keeping hostages could backfire on us somehow, though I'm not exactly sure how yet." He stops to scratch the growth on his chin. "We're playing a tricky chess game here and I don't like not knowing where the pieces may land. I want to lay eyes on my opponents directly before we decide how to play this. How do we get up there? Driving in feels too risky but I'm not sure we can find a friendly place to land the Boundless, though I'd love to have it with me just in case things start to sour. It doubles as a very intimidating stick to wield at them as well as our means of escape."

"If we don't want to drive there's always another climb, or roping in from your ship with ropes or some kind of gravity chute. Getting back up though..." he thinks for a long moment, scratching his head

"Well, we might have to figure that one out on the fly. I do quite like the idea of 'dropping in' though. Let's go with that." Levi nods his head to the Constable. "Thanks again." "Well, we've got a plan. Or at least the beginnings of one. Let's load up and head out!" He nudges the nobles with his fancy walking stick and makes for the Boundless, preparing to fly up with his hostages.

The hostages are transferred aboard and you can see fire is set to the two busses as you and Granite take to the air with your prisoners. The people are venting their frustration and the Constable seems to think it’s better this way than this being done to people. The Boundless begins approaching the hill where the major homes are located

"Let's keep the hostages aboard while we go down to take care of business. I don't know how this is going to shake out yet, and they're just our leverage. Don't want them turning into a liability." Levi has the Boundless fly in closer than what would be considered normal to make sure his presence is known while he suits up his grav chute in the ship's locker to prepare for a jump. "You're in luck here, Granite. After running with Marble for a time, I decided to have a few things in my armory retrofitted to be more suitable for a Geon frame. This one here should fit you just fine."

(Seen, was left for them to answer so I didn't want to step in)

Granite let’s put a nervous chuckle. “So we just fall, and Marbles has done this before?” He glances over the side of the ship a small bead of crystal sweat tumbling from his forehead over board. A few min of careful negotiation to get the harness over his crystalline exterior and Granite is ready, if a little reluctant for the jump.

The ramp lowers and you and the manor house below you. You can see swirling snow and the lights on inside and many people look to be here

There is a shout of alarm as you land amid what looks to be some kind of elite social gathering. THere are no doubt guards around but you do not see any immediately among the guests- they were unprepared for this kind of trouble.

Levi lands squarely on his feet and unlatches the harness. He speaks loud enough for the crowd to hear him. "Pardon me! Just thought I'd drop in. I regret that I have to bring business to your leisurely affair, but this couldn't wait."

The party comes to an abrupt halt as the celebrants and their security struggle to make sense of what is happening here. No one has given orders for you to be taken, yet, but the status quo is only going to hold for a few seconds

"I've got something of yours. I believe they were sent down the hill to 'deal with the peasants.' Well, we didn't want them so you can have them back!" Levi signals back to the ship and has their captive nobles brought into view. "We need to talk about water. More specifically, your vanity projects that are stealing people's lives as you stop them from getting the water they need to live!"

"This world is our birthright!" one calls from the crowd. "We can use it however we see fit!"

"That was not the correct answer. Come on over here and talk to me face to face! Who am I dealing with here? Faceless nameless nobodies?"

“I am Baron Corvus” says a large man ambling out of the crowd. His cane has been drawn and you can see that the underside of it is a blade “And you won’t tell me how to run my planet or my people”

"I am Reverend Levi McClain representing the New Moon Cooperative, and I will do as I please. Would you care to explain the inhumane criminal negligence of those under your rule? Or are you here to come to blows, old man to old man?" (edited)

"I do not need to explain anything to you, this world belongs to us, it is our birthright and our legal privilege under the Cooperative's articles"

8:19 AM

There are other murmurs of assent within the crowd, and a few others look to be moving forward out of the pack toward the confrontation.

Levi changes demeanor instantly and bursts out laughing. "Oh!... Oh, my. I'm sorry, this seems to have been a big misunderstanding." His laughter dies down as he steps in closer to clap a hand on the Baron's shoulder. (Unless you don't think he'd let me in that close. I've got a plan either way.)

(he is not going to let you get that close, his bodyguard would step forward as well to block your path)

(Operation Friendly Hug is cancelled then. Could I redirect the hand to the bodyguard's shoulder? Just trying to look/act chummy.)

(I could see him like, intercepting it, if that makes sense)

(Operation Bad Idea is a go.) Levi ambles up towards the Baron and his friendly hand lands on the shoulder of the guard who stepped up to get into the way. "Oh, my apologies. I was just going to give your nobles back. I don't want them; no hard feelings." He points back up to the ship with his free hand and while he's directing attention away, covertly puts an immense amount of force on the bodyguard's pressure point to bring him down. (Commiting Vowed Effort for Veiled Strike)

Commit Effort for the scene as an On Turn action before touching an unresisting or unsuspecting target. Inflict normal unarmed attack damage, but it appears to be no more than a touch or innocent gesture to onlookers. The victim is unaware of the harm unless they make a successful Physical save to notice. Targets reduced to zero hit points by this can either be killed or fall unconscious at your discretion.

(Not a good time for a garbage damage roll...) (22/7) (If it's enough to bring him down, it'll be non-lethal damage. If not, he'll need to make the save to notice I did anything.) In the midst of this, Levi gives the signal to have the captive nobles jettisoned from the hovering ship. Prepared for this outcome, their own grav chutes engage to allow a safe landing.

(woiuld those parachuting nobles have been told to do anything upon hitting the ground? or are you just releasing them ? )

(They're being released. I didn't really think through how this whole plan would play out so I'm flying by the seat of my pants.)

1

The bodyguard goes flying. The guards in the room and those nobles with gumption to fight against you begin to move forward , blades drawn.

7:42 PM

(Initiative. We are looking at six opponents for now, about 10m away each on average )

(Sorry I'm a little confused. I guess I didn't realize we were indoors. And how did the guard go flying if I was just putting pressure on his shoulder? I feel like I missed something.)

(I guess I misread the technique. Hard to remember how things were when months go by and the scene just hangs )

(the bodyguard would still register pain, even if he hasn't been flying, he did pass his save, I think the paradropping folks, even if they're the nobles own, would be enough to convince them of your less than wholesome ((to them)) intent. Not sure how else to progress this or what other disconnects there might be. We blew out their skylights iirc)

(So the situation is, as I understand it: 1) The guard I covertly attacked passed his save and he registers that I did something to him, but he's still standing and probably upset with me. 2) My saying "I don't want your nobles, you can have them back" followed by the nobles dropping in safely has somehow convinced them that I mean them harm. 3) All of this is happening indoors in a big area that we have broken skylights out of to drop through. If this is all accurate then I can respond accordingly.)

(This only bit of confusion from my end is point 2. I know the situation is tense so I can understand the escalation if it has gotten to violence now, but I just want to clear it up before I start throwing all the number stones around if this is how it's going down.)

(1 correct 2. Your demands and basically confessing to blowing up the dams or at least hinting you know who’s involved. Also, you’ve got their people. They don’t care if they’re safe. You’ve damaged their honor misplaced as that sentiment may be 3. Correct about the scene )

(I definitely should have had a plan before coming in here lol.

Are we doing initiative now and starting a fight or are we still talking?)

(They’re going to begin fighting in about six seconds, so we basically have a free round if we want to do anything before getting stuck in)

Levi takes a cautious step backward away from the angry bodyguard and sees the others stepping out of the crowd for imminent violence. He looks the baron square in the eyes as he speaks. "Now. Think long and hard about what you're fixing to do. Did you think I came down here without a contingency plan? That I wasn't prepared for things to go sideways? You don't even know what's waiting in THAT," he points up to the waiting ship for emphasis. "You want to risk me calling in the cavalry? Go ahead. Make my day." He firms his grip on the SamaelTech staff, muscles tensing.

1

8:29 PM

(Initiative 9 for Levi and 2 for Granite if it cones to that.)

"What do you want Reverend?" The baron asks. The situation is still tense but for the moment the armed individuals in the crowd are holding back, waiting for a command rather than acting on their own.

"I want a few things. First off, I want everyone in here to walk away with their lives intact tonight. I'm not here to cause bloodshed. Next, I want to formally return the nobles that you sent down the hill. They're yours. Take 'em. Lastly, I want to clear up this business with the Cooperative's Articles you're claiming. If it's true, then you should have no issue with letting me take copies back to the Cooperative. There seems to have been a misunderstanding regarding that. If you're not willing to work with me now... well, then it could get interesting in here. Is that clear?" (edited)

The Baron snaps a finger and his lawgiver begins working his way through a crowd that seems unwilling to make it easy for him to pass. The poor man is elderly, burdened down by many books and data pads on a sealed floater ruck he is dragging behind him. He pants heavily trying to bring the items over to you.

7:22 AM

You get the sense he might have been ordered to gather this when reports of disturbances at the bottom of the hill circulated back up here.

Levi nods his head on thanks. "Well if that's all, then I believe I'll let you get back to your party here. You'll be hearing from me again, once this business is all cleared up. Farewell, Baron Corvus." (If they're not going to try any funny business, I'm going to take the floaty sled and walk out the door.)

(They won't try anything now, they think their case is just and want the king to get it , so that wouold be a weird conflict for them to change their minds again)

(Well if there's no other complicating factors, I'm going to join back up with the crew on board the Boundless and head back to Jagrati. I'm not sure if this is something I should try to look into while I'm in downtime on the trip or if it needs to be brought before professionals back home to decipher the legalese. Also I don't know if this is something worth bringing before the NMC Public Assembly or if I should resolve it how I see fit.)

(The timing on this is definitely weird with you guys being so far behind in time when you were playing last and then not being here for an extended period of time while the game was still going. Ultimately I think whatever King D decided , king max and operation noble sweep would have overturned anyway , still making these guys in the wrong )

(So the situation as I see it is: 1. Entitled dickheads in charge that were willing to steal water from the common folk and starve them for their own vanity projects. 2. The aforementioned dickheads use martial law to keep the population in line despite horrid living conditions. 3. They believe it's their right to be dickheads because the NMC supposedly put them in charge on this icy hellhole. 4. Without player intervention they're just going to do it again. 5. We're now at least 6 game months behind here from everyone else. Levi would love to step in and intervene to stand up for the common man but I get that it may not make much sense from a time sync perspective. I'd love to tie up this loose end if it's possible but I'm also spinning up my new character soon so I get if it just needs to be over. I'll defer to you for this one because I'm not sure how to proceed.)

(my thought would be by time the NMC pencil pushers realize they have no claim and all tht back and forth happens, six months would probably pass and Levi would be given permission to intervene there how he sees fit)

Levi mulls over the situation on his trip back to Jagrati, where he says his farewells to his Geon companions. He delivers his pallet of documents to the administrative offices of the Cooperative with assurances that they'll get back to him 'as soon as they can.' Yeah, right... whatever that means. Days turn into weeks and weeks into months as Levi busies himself with various odd outings. He mostly just tries to keep his ragtag bunch of adolescents from doing anything too out-of-hand while he sits discontent with the loose end he left behind. More than that, he feels a gnawing worry that grows on him while he prays the Lord keep the commoners safe from the retribution of their leaders. Father, You are the good shepherd. You watch over your flock and rebuke the devourer for our sakes, so that he will not destroy the fruit of our ground. I pray You watch over your Word to perform it. For You are the same yesterday, today, and forever. In Your mighty name I pray, Amen. When the day finally comes and the message arrives, it come in as an underwhelming whimper with no fanfare. Six months of waiting culminated into a brief and almost dismissive note that the authority of the Santama Miti nobles is revoked and void. Permission is granted to resolve the situation with reasonable discretion. Now all that remains is what he will do with this information. I don't think these entitled fools are going to bow for anything less than overwhelming force... Unless... Capturing the Baron and stripping him of land and title will be enough of an example to quiet the others. I'll have a better chance with that than taking over the whole planet with a fleet of starships and troops I don't posess. I think... I think I have a way forward.

9:47 AM

(Would there be anyone available in the NMC right now who would like to join up and storm the castle? I've got some ideas on how to do it solo but I wouldn't mind teaming up to tackle this. I'm imagining it could get pretty risky.)

9:54 AM

(Looking back through the thread, I can't find anywhere that XP has been given out since we've been on Santama Miti and we've been through several scenes there by now. The initial landing/briefing with commoners followed by the trek up the mountain to destroy dams. We fought some guards and then came down the mountain to protect the town from the angry retribution of the nobles/military. Last bit was crashing their party and getting the documents and escaping before it escalated into violence. I'm not really concerned about XP for Levi since he's kind of been on the back burner, but I am curious what it would've been worth so far.)

(hey bud, I was a little preoccupied answering your other questions and waiting to see if we had an agreement on how this block of time was going to pass/ if there was anything important we should hit in the meantime, so my thoughts hadn't yet been given over to XP since we had some other things to take care of first. To that end I'm still not sure if I am supposed to be setting up a castle crashing adventure, or if you actually don't want to do Levi anymore, or what. I'm trying to keep up with the moving goal posts as best I can. Since we're here, I'd say 6 seems reasonable, and as you said, its a moot point anyway since we're doing a new character)

(6 is quite reasonable. With your clarification from PMs, I'll chill out a little bit and see if any NMC friends want to come along for this next bit.)