Iron Stars - korrin

Comrade Korrin Felix is summoned from a training simulator with a knock on the metal hatch outside the main practice set up on base. It is raining a dirty, smoggy rain outside in St. Vincent, located in the center of the planet Pelsagon. There will be rivers of filthy water pouring off the surrounding mountainsides before long, and someone makes a comment about feeling sorry for the "fucking idiots in gamma company" out on a mountain survival exercise right now

8:56 PM

someone else says something about finding a better place to stick their entrenching tools

Felix emerges from the simulator, wiping sweat from his brow; heat sinks must not have been deemed a necessary use of resources when constructing the chambers. He still wears his combat armour despite training in a sim, a quirk picked up from the dark times immediately after the Scream. He looks up at the person disturbing his training and smiles. "What can I do for you, comrade?" (edited)

2:07 AM

(What rank would be reasonable, or would rank be more nebulous given his and his team's purpose and size?)

(If you’re leading a squad it wouldn’t be higher than sergeant, though you probably don’t salute and are not saluted by your lessers in the field so you’re not given away as an nco)

(Sounds good)

(I saw it. Work started again. I’m deemed essential so I’ve been there for a good chunk of the day)

(yeah sorry I massively misjudged the time it had been, do what you need to do)

"The chairman has requested you. Something about an assignment, you're needed as soon as youre cleaned up and in your dress uniform"

Felix claps the man on the shoulder, continuing to smile. "Tell him I'll be there as soon as possible. I think I need a quick shower before I meet our leader!" He nods at soldiers familiar to him as he makes his way to the shower block. Once he's clean and suited up in his dress uniform, he makes his way to the Chairmans office, excited and curious to see what assignment will be given to him.

The chairman’s office is a complex and elegant melange of dark wooden paneling, cooper busts of past pelsagon and now cbss leadership , and marble columns. It was once the throne room of the former king but was changed promptly after the successful communist rebellion some decades ago. Chairman Yuri Oktobreskyea is one of the last of such brave soldiers who had fought in that revolution. Older now even with long lost now rejuvenation treatments, he is still a mix of rapidly aging man and slowly obsolecing machine

9:55 PM

He gestures for you to sit down and shuts the record player on his desk off

9:56 PM

“Comrade Felix. Please. Sit. I have need of you and your..special skills”

Felix takes a seat, in awe at being in the same room as this revolutionary hero. Though the years have not been kind to him, it is clear to Felix that the Chairman is still an imposing figure. "I serve the CBSS, Chairman. What is it you need done?"

“Our communist brothers on Al-Thynniyan cry out for aid. The people are being trod upon by their wasteful and decadent government. Our department of state has been in contact with these brave revolutionary heroes and we have promised to send help. “

5:56 AM

“We can not support a long campaign or a mass landing of soldiers , you and a small team, with limited material support from home can lead the great tide of equality that will bring the planet into the true way of social organization”

"I would be honoured to help liberate our fellows on Al-Thynniyan. I swear to you that I will do all I can to break the chains that bind the workers of that world so that they may join us in our brotherhood. How do you intend to get us on world?"

“A shuttle is more than sufficient for you and your supplies. They’re not very advanced. You should be able to get in undetected with some care

6:56 PM

“We believe they possess some things our growing union needs, namely factories and possibly a large ship on the surface. The rebels have promised us access to these materials if we bring the matter to a swift end”

"I can see the need for a quick resolution. We live in a dangerous galaxy, and our people need all the material support that they can get. When do I ship off?"

“Tonight. Pick your team. You’ve got a second in command and three others. You’ll have 5,000 credits for local needs once you’re there”

Felix nods. "I'll have a list of names for you within the next few hours." He stands up and puts his fist over his heart. "Solidarity, Chairman." He waits to be dismissed before taking his leave. Sitting down in front of a viewscreen wired up to the currently rudimentary computational system on the barracks, Korrin gets to work reviewing the files of the various soldiers he has in mind for the various team roles. His 2IC is an easy choice; Corporal Yuri Rex, a large imposing man that Felix has served with on multiple missions with a loud laugh and a bone-crushing punch. The others take longer, as he tries to build a small team capable of handling any eventuality. He settles on Lance Corporal Sayed Ali as the team medic, Private June Roberts as the tech expert and Private Yuki Imada as the teams engineering specialist based on their records and skillsets. He writes up the list and has it sent to the Chairman's administrators for processing.

6:17 AM

Sgt Korrin Felix - Team Leader
Cpl Yuri Rex - 2IC
LCpl Sayed Ali - Medic
Pvt June Roberts - Tech Specialist
Pvt Yuki Imada - Engineering Specialist

(edited)

6:18 AM

(Please pin that for reference)

Nekosmash pinned a message to this channel. 3/27/2020 6:22 AM

By the end of the day you get everyone you’re asking for, and they’ll be meeting you in orbit at midnight standard time to head out.

6:38 PM

Arms and armor will be made available before departing

(You can requisition 1,000 credits of extra gear for yourself or the team. Just some generalist stuff you think you might need)

8:21 PM

(The shuttle doesn’t have a locker

Korrin spends the rest of the time available to him going over the equipment needed for the operation, mindful of the limited resources of the CBSS military. He presents his list to the quartermaster with only three hours before midnight, and goes to the mess hall to enjoy one last warm meal before shipping off.

Armour:
5 x Combat Field Uniform

Weapons:
4 x Combat Rifle
1 x Sniper Rifle
5 x Mag Pistol

Equipment:
500 rounds of ammunition
10 x Type A Power Cells 100cr
1 x Metatool 200cr
1 x Medkit 100cr
1 x Toolkit TL4 300cr
1 x Binoculars TL4 200cr
2 x Rope, 20 metres, TL3 8cr
1 x Survival Kit 60cr
3 x Thermal Flare 15cr
2 x Glowbug 10cr

(edited)

8:25 PM

(Let me know if the mag pistols are too much)

(They’d have mag pistols over laser pistols. It’s easier to make magnets than lasers for them right now)

(Then this is final)

The gear is brought aboard in a long arms locker and a second box full of the regular supplies. A pilot makes his way to the forward compartment with a nod , and the ship shakes as it begins cycling up

(I nearly wrote 'Robert'

)

As Felix takes his place in the shuttle, he introduces himself to his new team. "As I'm sure you would have been told, I'm Sergeant Felix, but given the nature of our mission I don't see rank as something worth saying out loud constantly, so Felix is fine. Maybe I'll even let you call me Kor at the end of all this. This brute here," he says, gesturing to Yuri, "is our 2IC, Corporal Rex. I'll let the rest of you introduce yourselves to each other, we have a journey of a few days in this tin can so I'm sure we will know each other intimately by the time we arrive. Our mission is to support the local people's resistance in launching a successful uprising against the bourgeoise rulers of Al-Thynniyan, with the long term goal of bringing them into the CBSS. We are lightly armed and won't be supported by our comrades back home, so this is going to be hard, but I have faith in all of you. My goal is to see as few casualties as possible, but be prepared for anything, we are going in blind here." Korrin leans back in his seat, looking at his troops. "I have no interest in leading anyone into this mess that doesn't want to be here. If you want to back out, now's the time. I won't hold it against you, and I am sure we can source a replacement quickly, so speak up if you want out."

(I gotta paint something up on inkarnate for the actual planet but I think the opening stages we can do verbally. I’m gonna draw this morning once chores are done )

(Im going to bed soon anyway so youve got ages)

Al-Thynniyan

1:25 PM

(1 day of downtime too) None of the soldiers back down and they settle in for the long journey to the neighboring world. The citizens of Frostford have cried out for aid and the CBSS plans to assist in the best way they can

4:40 PM

Arriving on planet instructions are directionally beamed to your ship to land at the radio array, as discretely As possible, before the communication shuts off.

Korrin enters the pilots cabin, and communicates his desire to land by the radio array, coming in low across the ocean from the north. As the shuttle enters the atmosphere, Korrin remains, staring out across the frozen landscape as the pilot manoeuvres the craft as stealthily as possible.

(They do not detect the shuttle)

2:55 PM

The passive scanning of the two rival towns is patchy and the pilot is able to bring the ship in to land at the array. Aside from a frosted over utility truck, the area seems like it has been evacuated. The towers are now silent as well

2:55 PM

There are no signs of damage

2:55 PM

Or fighting

Korrin helps his team haul their gear out of the shuttle and inside the nearest building, away from the ever-present frost. He gives a quick salute to the pilot, thanking him for the safe landing, before watching as the shuttle soars off into the white sky. As it vanishes into the clouds, he turns back to his team. "We'll likely be on this world for a while, so there's no issue in us spending the night here to make sure we weren't tracked while we were coming in. If we get attacked, I'd rather have a defensible position like this than get caught out in the snowfields. Imada, I want you to have a look at that truck, see if you can get it running, the less time we spend in the elements the better. The rest of you, make camp in the building with our gear, and start a watch roster. We're in enemy territory, so your armour and weapons stay with you tonight. Roberts, you take the sniper, you've got watch up on the roof until the sun sets. Any questions or concerns?"

They break and begins following orders. The truck engine turns over almost instantly and it looks as through some supplies for the weather were left in the bed for you. “This was intentional” Imara says, jogging back over as the truck engine warms up. “Broadcast that loud on unsecured towers like these though ...bet the whole planet heard “

Korrin mulls over Imada's words for a moment, considering the new information. "You're right, Yuki. Let's load up the truck and get out of here. Hopefully there's somewhere nearby where we can hunker down for the night without being noticed. Do a once over of the vehicle while I gather the others, we leave in ten." Korrin returns to his squad, explaining the change in plans, then helps them lug the gear into the bed of the truck. "Imada, Ali and I ride in the front, Imada drives. Rex and Roberts stay in the back with the gear. We'll head south and see if we can make it to that forest before nightfall, hopefully the trees there will give us some cover. I don't want enemy flyers catching us out in the open. Let's move!"

the threat of annihilation from a low flying jet has everyone moving quickly to stow their gear and abandon their positions without complaint. As darkness begins to fall the truck sets out , and from the south you see two sets of blinking lights very far away in the sky. “Looks like that’s the response. They won’t see us , by time they get here we will be in the woods and we can bunker down for the night. “

"Perfect. Drive a short way in and we can shelter in a thicket for the night. We can take stock of our position and make a move in the morning."

The lights were over the area a handful of times as you secret yourself in the forest and the engine shuts off. The planes find nothing to bomb and after a few passes head back to their launch point at sword break.

7:18 PM

Their engines are loud, telling you they’re about equivalent to the late model atmofighters in use on Pelsagon.

7:19 PM

The venerable Mig-32, now entering its block 210 upgrade, has saved your life more than once

Looks like tech superiority is out of the question here. The Chairman was wise to only send a small team, any larger group would be too easily torn apart during a landing. Korrin helps the others set up camp, though they elect to stay in the back of the truck so that they can move quickly if enemies approach, not needing to pack up shelters and supplies. When the sun begins to rise, they have a quick breakfast of freeze dried rations before securing everything and moving East in their vehicle, hoping to make a straight run towards Frostford. Felix orders his troops to keep an eye out for mountain paths and hostile patrols while he studies the available maps, trying to discern the best course of action.

The team hears wolves during the night, but the sound of the engine, and then the aircraft seems to have kept them from wanting to try anything against you during your rest. The drive east is quick, the game path barely enough room for the car, but fairly straight, until you come to a wooden bridge that crosses a fast moving icy river. it looks heavily reinforced, now almost entirely from wood, with the occasional metal plate screwed into the base.

Felix ponders the bridge for a moment, his brow furrowed. "The truck is too important an asset right now to leave behind. All of you dismount, carry your personal gear and cross the bridge on foot. I'll wait until you've all crossed then drive the truck across, hopefully a bit lighter with only one of us in it."

The crew does as told and one by one they make their way across the rickety bridge. It groans slightly as the truck begins moving on to it , the wide rubber tires making the trademark sound of a wet athletic shoe on a polished floor. There is a crunch as it begins to bite. (Pilot/dex)

(10)

The truck makes its way across the bridge with your expert handling behind the wheel

7:39 AM

Ahead, the icy ramparts of Frostford stand vigil over the bridge and you see a single red flare pierce the horizon. The gate opens as five men with cheap rifles and cold weather gear make their way out

Korrin slows the vehicle to a stop in the snow, then exits. He regroups with his team by the truck. Whispering, he advises them to stay calm, and only pull their mag-pistols if he did or they were being shot at. As the armed men get closer, Felix turns back to face them. He stares at the soldiers expectantly, as if bored by them. "What can we do for you?"

“You CBSS?” The lead asks, voice muffled by several scarves and goggles

"And if we are?" Korrin affects a nonchalant posture, but he is ready to spring into action at a moment's notice.

He opens his coat and takes out a clear bottle of an equally clear spirit. He sloshes the contents around, gesturing you to come have a drink

The sergeant smiles. "Then yes, yes we are." He walks forward to clasp arms with the spirits bearer eagerly.

The gate closes behind you once everyone is inside. A small village bas been build@up around what looks to be a size able cave network running into and below the mountains. A tracked drilling machine the size of a grav tank is parked outside the main cave branch and three men are busy chiseling frozen mud and ice from its tracks

6:27 AM

The village is warm, and you see a few outlet pipes for geothermal heating

"Comrade, what a beautiful machine! What do you plan to do with that, then?" Korrin takes off his gloves and shows them in a pocket, letting his frozen hands thaw in the warm air.

"Ah, we use it to explore the tunnels below. There is so much beneath our feet. It feels like someone has been here before us"

Korrin nods, impressed. "This tunnel system, how far does it extend? Is the current government aware of it and can they monitor movement through It? This may be a great boon to the uprising we hope to forment with you."

“It is a labyrinth down there. It doesn’t seem like they can easily track us but it’s hard to know where you’re going down there either. There’s things in the dark. Scurrying creatures. And predators”

"Damn, there's no point risking lives needlessly down there then. Perhaps taking that land should take place when this is all over." Korrin looks up at his new companions. "I'm sorry, comrades, I've always been told I spend so much time looking ahead I can't see what's right in front of me. Tell me about yourselves, and your world, and pass me some of that drink while you're at it!"

“We have lived here for about a year now. The ice flow from the mountains provides water and we get geothermal heat from below. There are ruins in the caves that we have tried to explore. The technology is strange and not quite designed for us but it’s been made to work when possible.

7:03 AM

“The remnant had a camp across the lake where you landed. We conquered them and they live among us now as communist brothers and sisters”

"You have done marvellous work. Making an enemy your comrade is the greatest victory of all! How many of you are there, and how many are on this world?"

“200 here. We aren’t sure how many are in the cities. Tens of thousands at least. The revolution will make comrades of them all”

"Then let us begin preparations. We must figure out the best way to utilise our limited forces, and there is no time to waste! Do you have a war room, operations centre, something like that?"

You're taken further into the small village, where a large hatch in the ground has been cleared of snow, and has now popped open. A small ladder, with lights strung on the hatch lid, lead down into a large room below the snow. You can smell the ozone from electronics, and see the heat ripple coming out of the ground.

Familiar with structures and equipment built for function over any semblance of form, Korrin feels right at home surrounded by the poorly shielded electronics, and ignores the sweat now dripping off his brow as he descends. "I'd like a sitrep on how you've been faring, if you're happy to share. Then we can spend a while coming up with ideas together. I do have experience in this sort of work, but you know this world and it's people better than I ever could. Our combined experience should give us the necessary edge we need to win!"

"THere's 200 of us here now, only half of us are of fighting age and have the skill to do it. We have a defensible position here, with the mountains keeping us protected, and the river on the other side. We have a small outpost at the crashed ship on the other side of the mountains as well, its point defense guns are the only things working, and its keeping their aircraft from coming up here and just wiping us out. We lose that, we lose this city too, and the movement dies with us. We need to find some way to keep them fighting around their own territory, so they stop the sorties against us, and against the ship"

7:47 AM

"There's another settlement nearby it, they seem to worship the ship, or at least venerate it highly...they've ignored our overtures, but you come from space, they might listen to you:

"And if they do, our numbers are going to double , or more. Someone mentioned something about trying to get the ship guns working again, it sounded like it might be possible"

"It sounds like we need to head towards this ship as soon as possible. What's the easiest way to get to this outpost of yours? Thanks for the truck, by the way. It kept us alive."

“There’s a tunnel we have dug through the mountains. It’s not improved ,but it will fit the truck. Thing is though, the other cities probably know about it by now” (edited)

"Getting to the ship and organising it's defence is our first priority. The truck should still be loaded, my team should be ready to move within minutes. We can deal with any trouble as it comes. Will you be sending anyone with us?"

“A contingent to match yours. Fair is fair. I don’t think we can send out the same quality of weapons and armor though. I would expect a fight either near the tunnel or through it”

"Do you have a workshop here? If we modify the truck you gave us, maybe adding some armour to the thing, it might be able to pierce through whatever ambush is lying in weight for us. My comrades and I are capable fighters, and we have advanced weaponry. As long as we can survive the initial burst of fire I like our chances against any small armed group we come across."

He thinks for a moment. “There’s some mining equipment in the cave, and we have been able to get some metal out of the tunnel network down there. We won’t be ready to move until tonight but if we work together we should be able to get something on the truck done to make it safer”

8:07 AM

“Can’t do anything about the windshield though. That worries me. I don’t know how to reinforce it”

"Let's begin work on armouring the truck. I'm not happy about the windshield either, but I'm at a loss as to how to fix that. I'm afraid engineering isn't one of my strengths, comrade. Do you have any heavy weapons here? Perhaps we could make up for our spotty defence with a turret mount. We can lay down a field of fire while whoever is in danger can move to a better position."

"We have a heavy machine gun, and a railgun, either would fit but i dont think we have a way to mount both"

"Mount the railgun. I've always preferred them. We don't need both, I don't want to drain your armoury. Thanks again for the hospitality here, I'm looking forward to working with you and your people." (edited)

The night passes as the armor plates are forged and attached to the vehicle. The truck is slow, and heavy, now sitting close to the ground, but it should survive small arms fire

Let's hope we don't need to make any sharp turns. "Right, let's load her back up and get ready to move out. Weapons with you and ready to fire at all times, we don't know when we'll be attacked. Keep your eyes sharp, and if you're at the windshield when the shooting starts just get to cover, don't worry about driving, this thing is more of a mobile fort than a vehicle at this point."

The crew and your strike team take their positions in the vehicle. After some goodbyes from the townsfolk the truck fort moves out and onto the ice highway heading through the mountains. “Took is the better part of a year to dig the tunnel and then reinforce it enough to feel safe driving through it. Now the eastern cities want to capitalize on it and keep it for industries only. You can see why we called. This planet is small and there is already little on the surface”

The truck rumbles along the ice road, passing through winding mountain paths, before overlooking the tunnel mouth below. There are some gas lights strung up at the opening, and down the inside of it from what you can tell

(Sorry man might be a couple of days before I can post, got a massive assignment due tonight then I move house)

(No problem I just didn’t give you anything to work with in the last post )

"Looks like there's been some kind of activity up there. Best be on alert. Start moving the truck forward slowly, and have everyone on alert, ready to fire, and behind of much as the metal plating as they can be. Yuri, get up in the turret." Korrin readies his own rifle as they near the tunnel mouth.

headlights begin winding down the mountain road behind you. "We have the only truck in the village...we need to get moving now" The truck moves down the pass, and is about to enter the tunnel mouth when a half-tracked truck full of soldiers, and with a similar machine gun on a roof turret swerves in behind you (initiative)

(3)

The half track opens a second spotlight, illuminating the back of you truck, the first burst of its heavy machine gun kicking up snow and splinters of ice, but not hitting

"Everyone get into position! Take cover and prepare to fire! Yuri, take out that half-track!" As their own armoured truck draws to a halt, turning to the left slightly to allow better angles of fire for it's occupants, Korrins team take up their firing positions. Yuri, Korrins enormous 2IC, brings the railgun to bear on the enemy vehicle, firing as soon as he has it aimed properly. (7 to hit, clocking that as an easy miss) (I'm assuming that for the first round it's only reasonable to shoot the mounted railgun)

(It’ll be easier to hit next time!) The enemy truck does not stop its advance, closing to within 50m of you, it’s cannon still chattering (2 damage gets through the armor) Sparks fly from@the back hatch and one of the brake lights is shattered

Seeing his troops readying their weapons, Korrin braces his own against a small opening in the trucks armour and yells an order to fire between the thunderous rattling of rounds hitting the truck. Sergeant Felix and his squad open fire on the rapidly approaching enemy. (15/22 for the railgun, Crit/10 for the sniper rifle and CRIT/10 14/3 for the combat rifles. Korrin shoots 10m to the left of the truck.)

2

The headlight on the drivers side, windscreen, and some of the armored cab of the car are peppered by the heavy fire, your shots mostly hitting now- the passenger in the front slumps over onto the dashboard, head blown through. Enemy soldiers, three right now, begin jumping out of the back of the truck, one of them carries a rocket tube. The shot corkscrews the way most rocket propelled grenades do, and it explodes in the snow several meters in front of your truck

7:53 AM

the heavy machine gun mounted on the enemy truck likewise cannot find your range with the lights out, no longer able to illuminate you, and forced to fire at your muzzle flashes

7:53 AM

(i got a 5 and then a 7, even with a bonus, I suck)

(good shootin cowboy)

"Keep firing! We've nearly got the bastards!" Korrin doesn't need to look to see that his troops are following his order as rounds streak through the air.

4:19 AM

(Miss from the railgun and sniper, 15/13 and 17/11 from the NPC combat rifles, 22/6 from Korrins own rifle)

The enemy vehicle begins to back up, trying to screen the soldiers behind it, though they're clearly backing off. The soldiers try to get behind what is left of its armor, and the truck begins the long process of turning around "We've got them beat boss, do we push it?"

"Leave it. I'm hoping to convert some of those soldiers to our own side eventually. We don't want to slaughter them now. If they want to retreat, let them. Keep them supressed until they're gone, then we can take stock and keep moving."

There is a burst of gunfire meant to keep them low, and off balance, but as your truck pulls away it is clear that they are in no shape to follow you, and you make your way into the brightly lit tunnel. "Lets hope that's the last of them. We got lucky"

At the end of the tunnel, another truck is waiting, though this one has friendlier looking men standing near it. "Thats our contact. and just in time. I'd have hated for them to fall into a trap or be hurt in a pursuit. Let's go say hello"

"Sounds like a plan to me, friend. I've had enough of getting shot at for one day." Korrin smiles amiably. "Lead the way!"

9:25 PM

(Still hammering through uni work, will hopefully be back to normal post frequency soon)

(all good) A large man in a parka too small for him, and showing at least some recent burning, stands with a group of six men. They are leaner, and more on edge. "We heard the gunfire, Comrades, everything go alright out there? is anyone hit?"

"By some miracle we made it through there unharmed. It almost seemed like those bastards couldn't even shoot. If all of the enemy is like that, we'll have the planet taken within the week!" Laughing, Korrin proffers a hand to the man in the tight clothing. "Sergeant Korrin of the CBSS. We're here to help you in your struggle. It's an honour to meet you."

"An honor for you to come. We weren't sure anyone was listening, or could make it here. It's been some three years now" he says, wearily. "but we can talk about that another time. We're here to try to do something about the current government of this planet, and about the unfair labor practices they're pushing on us. It's time for workers rights, and for a change"

"I'm sorry we came so late. Our own worlds only just made it back to the stars, after that damn Scream. Soon the workers of Al-Thynniyan will be liberated from their chains, I swear upon my life. We have no intention of leaving until victory over the capitalist class has been secured, and people may enjoy all the fruits of their labour. Until then, my friend, we have a war to win. Take me to the ship."

The two trucks fall into a loose formation down the crushed stone road before turning off down a narrow logging path. Cresting a hill, the mighty form of the half buried Agamemnon’s Chariot presents itself like its own mountain. This one is made of steel and raised not by tectonic forces but human expertise. A handful of lights inside twinkle on, and small clutches of buildings cling to its armored sides like barnacles

"That's incredible!" Korrin seems to be thinking out loud more than anything. "We need to get that thing operational as soon as possible. What a weapon!" As plans roll through his mind, the Sergeant reclines in his seat, waiting to reach the downed craft before ranting about his ideas at his companions.

(3xp, 5000 credits )

8:28 PM

A trio of figures wait near one of the Ramps , it is currently lowered and the security measures around it look difficult to get through. Scrap fortifications and tank traps litter the road along with prepared fighting positions. Two knocked out tanks rest in the roadway impeded by obstacles

Level 2

4SP total
1SP to raise INT by 1 to 14.
2SP to raise Lead to 1.
1SP to raise Heal to 0.

Taking the Authority focus, raising Lead to 2.

HP raised to 15.

(edited)

"Let's not scare our new allies. Stop the truck here, I'll go talk to them myself. Yuri, stay in the turret, but don't fire unless I've given the order or I'm being attacked." Korrin leaves his passenger seat, and walks out towards the trio, arms raised slightly with palms forward. "Hello!"

“Welcome friends from the stars. Have we started the revolution?”

"The revolution is underway, comrades! We've come to support you in your struggle. I'm impressed that you've managed to take control of this ship, given what you've been up against. Please, friend, take me there, and tell me your peoples story." Korrin pauses, and looks back at the truck. "I take it you won't have an issue with my soldiers joining us?" (edited)

"None, we asked for this, please, please, come join us, get a warm meal"

Korrin motions for his squad to join him, then amiably strolls towards the shit with his new companion.

~~(Can't take any skill to Level 2 until you're character level 3, just btw)~~ I've been corrected, carry on. (edited)

(you can through foci i thought)

8:45 AM

(Taking a skill through a foci pick is a special case, and can improve the character's skill level above what is normally allowed for the character's level. Korrin has leveled up correctly)

8:46 AM

"We fled the cities, working conditions were harsh and always have been on this giant ice ball. the ship crashed three years ago, and the two cities tore themselves apart to try to get to it first. War broke out, but no one ever got close to the wreck. We are mostly deserters, or people who were able to flee the cities. It's hard to find a place to go where the ground is warm enough to plant or where heat can be leached"

(Eat it Dax)

8:51 AM

(I learned that rule on the day I joined this game)

(I did, thanks

️ )

5

"This is definitely a harsh world, I've seen that much. I can't imagine how resourceful you'd need to be to live out here. The CBSS has a lot to learn from you." Korrin takes his beret off for a moment, feeling the chill of the air through his hair. "By taking this wreck, you're halfway to taking this world. The guns on a ship like that could destroy armies, and there should be at least one armoury buried within it's hull. If the ship came from before the Scream, it might have weaponry that vastly outclasses what the cities are using. If you're up for it, we can mount an expedition as soon as we get there."

"We've tried to get inside, but there are security measures in everything but the first two decks, where I think most people would have lived. "

"Let's have a look at the entrance to the third deck, then. I'd like to get a feel for what's in there before making a decision to go in, unless you have any ideas for a better use of my squads time?"

"This is the issue we were hoping you could come to help us with. If you're capable of going inside, We would welcome the help"

"Then consider it done. I won't stop trying until we make it through, you have my word."

(need anything before we jump into it?)

(Nah let's go ham)

7:00 PM

(I added some goals btw)

The armored bulkhead leading deeper into the ship is protected by three factory workers inside with well made carbines. You can see yellow stripes on their solid shot magazines marking the loadout inside as HIGH EXPLOSIVE

7:49 PM

they nod respectfully, seeing your armor and emblem

Korrin nods in greeting. "Have you tried breaking in there yet? Got any idea what we can expect in there?"

"automated defenses, leftovers from the ship security system. Some of them are armored, focus on them first, they take quite a bit of punishment before they go down"

"Thanks." The Sergeant turns to his troops. "Mag pistols out, we have to assume it'll get tight in these corridors. Yuri, take point, the rest of us will follow in staggered files. You're all free to engage on sight unless specifically ordered otherwise, but try to keep the ship structure undamaged if you can." He pulls his own mag pistol out and checks the rounds, before lowering it to a casual, readied position. "Let's move out."

(for reference , entering at 1)

2

7:34 AM

The ramp opens into a T shaped entryway, that branches off ahead, and to the west and east, though the bulkheads are all currently closed. None of them look locked, but they'll need to be opened manually with flywheels mounted next to each of the doors

"Let's move into that right side bulkhead. We'll go through the ship methodically, I don't want to leave any defences at our backs. Anyone who isn't opening it up, keep lookout."

1:28 AM

(Bulkhead at top of T junction on image)

Nekosmash pinned a message to this channel. 4/30/2020 7:18 AM

the flywheel opens into the storage bay. Dry storage packed into sealed rooms sits on the left and right of you. THe doors are shut and integrity meters on the walls show the stores have never lost their 'clean' status, nor been opened. Whatever cargo is inside should still be there. Ahead , the mess hall, galley, and cold storage are linked together , through a more traditional swinging door. It moves slightly, as though something has passed through it to lurk in the crew mess just recently

Korrin, using silent hand signals, instructs his team to prepare for a fight, and has them take up breaching positions around the door. Once in position, Yuri busts the swinging door open and they move in quickly with weapons raised.

(Initiative)

(7)

A pair of security drones, little more than antigrav discs with underslung laser rifles rise up from behind the bar, 10m away

(oh my bad, i suck, you're up first)

(Nah its cool it turned out that whole "Im free now" thing was a lie and uni has been breaking my back but Ill make a post in the next couple of hours once Ive done some work)

(Sounds good buddy)

Seeing the drones rise, Korrin gives the order. "Fire!" (Korrin: 15/12 Team: 15/6 12/12)

One of the drones has already had enough, and is jerked back twice by the quick bursts. It topples over, knocking down boxes on a rack behind it that it collides with, burying its sparking form in decaying cardboard. the second one moves to adjust fire, the bulkhead doors providing enough cover, and its laser does little more than singe a burn spot on the doorframe

Further orders aren't necessary; they all know what to do. The firing continues, small metal spikes being hurled at the drone. (Korrin: 10/6 Team: 21/11 13/12 17/13)

The drone is impaled to the galley back wall, tile cracking as the mag spike digs deep, through the drone and into the wall itself. It sputters and its grav plate gives out, sagging like a landed squid

"Roberts, go check out those drones, make sure that that's all the trouble they're going to make. Everyone else, fan out, and look around the room. Be cautious, we don't know if this whole ship has been trapped to hell yet, and I don't want to lose anyone finding out."

Roberts fires another mag round into each of them, ensuring they wont rise up to threaten anyone else. "Looks like a normal galley. Food's still good though, Might want to tell them topside so they can get this handed out. They didn't look so good out there, and winter is coming"

2

1

"Yuri, go back to the entrance, tell them they can start sending in teams to get this food stored somewhere safer. Once you're back, we'll try the next bulkhead in the T-junction." (rooms 3-6, coming from the T-junction bulkhead)

The dry storage rooms are open, and there are goods stacked inside. In the galley kitchen, several knives have been stuck to the wall. A body of one of the former crewmen is held up by them, though without most of its flesh, the skeleton sags on the giant knives holding it up.

8:59 PM

The uniform is tattered, former Tenebrian Empire Navy

"Poor bastards." Korrin slicks back his hair. "Makes you wonder what did that to him. Stay sharp, I'd say there's more fighting to come." Korrin moves over to the corpse, letting it down from its perched position to come to rest on the ground. He scans the body quickly for any keys, ID cards or other forms of opening locked doors.

There is a compad that has somehow escaped being damaged , lying on the floor under the body. The type A cell inside is dead but looks to be able to slot out without trouble

Korrin swaps out the cell with one of his spares, and begins operating the compad, trying to find it's secrets.

The pad lights up and the map of the ship interior appears. Security systems are highlighted and the access codes for the secure doors are likewise now loading. The first mate is the body here on the wall, judging by the uniform and ID on the pad

Korrin has his team add the door codes to their own compads, looking around warily at the ship as he waits for them to finish copying the data. He marks the locations of the supplies on his compad, then has his squad stand armed and at the ready while opens the door to cold storage.

Two more bodies are on the floor in cold storage, one is clutching a rifle that is of a non-standard pattern. The other has the scraps of a cook uniform on, the heat resistant gloves the only part of the entire corpse that still resembles how they ended up in this condition. both have bullet wounds in the back of the head

"What happened to this ship?" Korrin looks at Yuri, who shrugs, clearly more interested in staying alert for danger. Korrin examines the bullet wounds for a moment, before investigating the rifle.

The rifle is a light cutter rifle in pattern, a pre-scream energy weapon that would have been issued to the assistants of heavy weapon teams

Seeing no sense in letting the weapon go to waste, Korrin grabs it and stows it away. "Right squad, let's go tackle that last bulkhead." He leads them back to the T-junction to continue the sweep of the ship.

(so you can go north or south from here)

(South)

Heading south, you his the engineering and security section of the ship. The spike drive is barely functional, enough to provide nuke snuffing capacity to the 50km local area, jury rigged to run, but not powerful enough to get the ship ever to function as a ship again. The ship eschewed traditional armor and instead opted for fitting of a once powerful set of shields. The sensitive equipment there has fried, but enough exists to give you an idea of how they would report and deploy for battle. Finally the security station is also in your immediate area and the doors look to have been at one point blasted open with some kind of breaching charge

9:13 AM

two more bodies are outside, clearly showing evidence of being killed in an attempted forced entry

"We could turn this place into a fortress, assuming we don't find a way to get it back into the sky. The Revolution on this world is looking more practical the more we explore this place." Korrin leads his team to the breached passageway, keeping an eye out for still active defences.

The weapons inside have been turned to slag or otherwise shot to pieces. Another three bodies in ship informs are inside. A long monoblade knife sticks from the ribs of the central figure, where once a heart would have been. It’s clear they died in the struggle to take the room and the remaining weapons must have been carried away, though two lockers look to have remained closed, jammed shut by deformed metal doors

Korrin directs his squad to attempt to force the sealed lockers, while he himself inspects the corpse of the soldier with the monoblade knife embedded in his ribs, trying to glean information as to what happened on this warship.

“Looks like a mutiny. Or some kind of internal struggle”

10:06 PM

Your second volunteers that information as the lockers wrench open with a sickening twist. An anti tank rocket launcher sits woven into crash straps in the first. The second has a body tumbling out of it and breaking apart into loose bones on contact with the floor, along with an intact datapad

As Yuri grabs the rocket launcher, loudly stating that he might need it later, Korrin investigates the datapad, rubbing his moustache absent mindedly.

There was a mutiny onboard. Black Sun revolutionaries among the crew overwhelmed the engineering room, bringing the engines to a dead stop in outer system space. Orbit caught the vessel, and as the riots spread, and the armory was attacked, the Tenebrian captain made a choice, to detonate certain parts of engineering. Lacking propulsion, the ship came to crash on the planet in its current rocky grave, the impact killing anyone not killed by the riots.

7:48 AM

The spike drive was in a secure housing, useless for interstellar flight now, but the nuke snuffer component is still working, projecting a 50km bubble of protection from the nuclear weapons the Capitalist city states almost certainly have

(Is there any more of the ship to explore?)

7:54 AM

(The bottom bit of this level right?)

(we just didnt go into 13, and the 'upper deck' is just exterior access on the roof, so i didnt include it)

"They killed themselves. Idiots." Korrin nods to his squad, and they move off with him to search the last major room.

in 13, there is more evidence of fighting, and more importantly the body of the ships captain. A pad has fallen next to him, with access codes for the bridge, and his ring provides authorization to power it up. Though it will never sail the stars again, or even right its position in this watery grave, its weapons and armor will create a communist bastion that will be truly difficult to assail

7:59 AM

(6xp, 10,000 credits)

LEVEL 3

Notice to 0
Sneak to 0
Fix to 0
Bank 1 SP

Health increased to 19

4

10:30 PM

As his squad relaxes, finally sure there are no immediate dangers left in the ship, Korrin walks back out the entrance to survey the land around the crashed behemoth. If we fortify our position here, we'll have a base to work out of that the capitalists can't easily assail. We'll need to set up AA if they haven't already, but between that and the snuffers I'd say this ship will be protected enough for us to start fomenting uprisings in enemy cities without worrying about losing our base of operations. Korrin considers the cold world, the star it orbits, the galaxy the star dances through on a timescale unimaginable to him, and smiles. I'm glad I got given the chance to do some good in this universe. He sees Yuri hauling the rocket launcher out of the entrance, and walks off to help, satisfied. I'll let everyone rest tonight, they've done well, but tomorrow, we begin making moves.

10:32 PM

(Would like to investigate South Warren, it's closest to the ship and seems like a natural choice)

South Warren is one of the two oppressive cities on the planet, and the group of freedom fighters keeping camp around the ship have information here. There are several neighborhood workers groups that have formed, but have done nothing, as any kind of movement right now would be disorganized and easily crushed. The city walls are in disrepair after a VBIED attack from inside, and the fallen wall sections have made a breach that the garrison is having trouble patrolling (edited)

Difficult, but workable. "How hard would it be for me and my squad to get in there?" Korrin itches around his eyepatch for a moment, building a question. "If we went in, what kind of security are we facing and how much of our gear can we get in with us?"

"Getting in will be easy, its the moving around once you're inside, and where you're planning to stow your gear while you're off coordinating things. I doubt there are enough arms with you now to properly mobilize the people in an uprising."

"Sounds to me like we'll need some kind of hidden safehouse in the city. Do you have any connections to these workers groups, or are there any abandoned industrial areas we can inhabit? Once we have somewhere to work out of, we can start contacting sympathetic groups and building a city wide network. There's no point even considering giving anyone weapons until we have the people on our side and ready to go."

"There's a yard where they used to keep automobiles, factory that made them went out of business, whole lot full of them with no engines in them. Just scrap metal. The locals and the homeless pick through it sometimes. Factory might have some squatters in it. We either get them to join us or we make sure they dont leave and warn anyone. Distasteful, but the revolution never ends"

"Then that's where we head. If there's anyone there, we handle it. I don't want to kill someone down on their luck but the needs of the revolution come first. We can moralise once the planet's been liberated." Korrin remembers the state of the truck he drove here in, armoured haphazardly in a rush job. "Our vehicle is going to stand out. Got anything that can get us there less noticeably?"

"We're going to get close, and hide it. We go in on foot, and we'll sneak what we can out into the wastes to fix it until it looks more normal. Best we can do for right now"

9:08 AM

"Easier to avoid checkpoints in the city on foot anyway"

"Fair enough, sounds like a plan to me. We'll head out as soon as possible. Will we have any way to stay in touch with you, or is that something we'll have to figure out once we're in there?"

"With the ship working now, and in our command, we should be able to keep your radios going. I cant guarantee we won't be overheard, or kept from being seen, but if you need us, we're here"

"Good to know, comrades. We'll leave when it's nearly dark, so we can get through the walls at night."

(If you want to top any gear off or anything the armory has stuff in it)

Korrin, never one to turn down the offer of extra gear when on a long deployment, makes a list of what he feels the squad needs most to pass to the quartermaster.

5 medium advanced weapons (monoblade axes)
As many demo charges as can be spared
5 sets of local winter clothing (including a large coat)
5 climbing harnesses
1 grapnel launcher
Some spare parts
Some non-perishable food

7:57 AM

(Will drive off after that)

2 demo charges are all that have survived this long in the armory 6 spare parts are available There are enough rations to@keep you fed for the deployment , and within the city you can likely get food aid from sympathetic groups within

8:02 AM

Search lights pan across the rough ground before the city walls and the breach is easy to see. The truck comes to a halt as close as the driver dares before its engine shuts off for the foreseeable future. A tumble of fallen rock 500m away rises out of the dusky light like a miniature mountain. At the top of it you can see two pinprick flames of cigarettes being smoked. Likely by a pair of guardsmen

Korrin gathers his squad into a huddle behind the truck. Their breath is just visible in the dark, freezing night's air, and he notices some of his comrades shivering, despite their winter gear. "We're going to have to take those guards out. We can't assume there is just two up there, so we're all going to have to sneak up there and use our shiny new axes on them before they can make a noise. Make sure all your gear is strapped down tight, we need to move silently through the rubble."

8:13 AM

Korrin checks his own gear, then begins making his way up the rubble, staying low and following natural paths in the rubble, watching the tiny red lights up ahead.

(Lets get a sneak dex, and if it’s good enough we can use that for the execution roll too, I’m trying not to spam checks on you)

(8)

Twin axe blades catch the moonlight in perfect pale crescents, before descending into unprotected heads and necks. The two soldiers fall, secondary blows finishing their mortally wounded bodies off, and putting them out of their misery. A dilapidated warehouse district is just beyond , on the other side of the rubble pile (edited)

"Leave the bodies, they're going to notice they've gone missing anyway. We'll head down into those warehouses and get some cover, then look for that abandoned factory."

The abandoned factory is nearby, and easy to see as its one of the few with no smoke coming from its smoke vents. The lights are off inside and some of the windows are broken. THe fence surrounding the property is bent or broken open in a few areas

"Let's go in quiet, weapons away. If we find anyone, we scare them off, pretend we're locals. Look for a secure, out of the way spot to make camp."

7:19 AM

(If there is anyone, I'll use Authority 1 on them to make them leave)

Approaching the factory, it seems there is a small drum fire out front, where three homeless individuals are now warming themselves around the trash blaze

Korrin puffs himself up and walks towards the people by the fire. "Friends, I'm afraid I'm going to have to ask you to move somewhere else. I've got to prepare this place for some reconstruction work, and we can't have anyone on site while we do it, dangerous work and all that. I've got some food we can share with you to make up for it, and we can help you move your things somewhere else, but you'll have to leave I'm afraid."

10:48 PM

Korrin feels discomfort at essentially forcing some homeless people out of their refuge, but consoles himself in the knowledge that he's working towards their liberation.

THey can hardly argue with the promise of food and help moving. It takes half an hour of slinking through alleys and back streets, to get them set up into a different warehouse, a half kilometer away. They are fine there, and it is one of the nicer of the derelict buildings if such a thing exists in this section of town

Korrin nods at them as he turns to leave. "Thanks for working with us there, lads. I'll come round in a few nights to check in on you, make sure the move went alright. I might even have some work for you, if things go well." He waves amiably before making his way back to the factory to set up their new base of operations.

The second floor is wide and the ceiling tall enough to give you plenty of space to move around. Outside there is muffled gunfire a few streets over and the barking of dogs. The occasional siren or searchlight also illuminates city buildings at random

"Sounds like we've come at a good time. Get our gear stored away, and set up a perimeter. Try and set up some noise traps, cans on strings and the like. I'll write up a watch rota, we can get some sleep, then we try and make contact with workers groups tomorrow."

Cans and scrap are string out around interior doorways, and outside, trash and debris is stacked up against gaps in the fence. Street access is the only thing left unblocked as the sudden barricade would be easily seen. The work occurs in watch shifts, and is done slowly with deliberate hands during the night. By morning, the fastness is as secured as it can be for the moment.

At sunrise, Korrin and his squad go through their gear, determining what can be carried discretely while wearing local clothing. Korrin decides that it's only worth taking the mag pistols, compads, a medkit and the metatool, as they can all safely go under the thick winter jackets or in a backpack. Korrin lays out the admittedly vague plan to his squad. "Yuri, big man, stay here. I know, it's not what you want to do now we're actually here, but we need someone to guard our base and you're just too big to blend in. We'll get you something nice out there, I promise. The rest of us, we're going to walk around the industrial part of the city, get a vibe for the place and see if we can find any groups worth exposing ourselves to. Gear up, we move out in five. Local civvies only." (edited)

The group gets into as close to local dress as they can muster, with their concealed equipment handled below. Outside, the first people up and responsible for work begin heading out into the streets, and they begin to fill up. A trolley car goes by, chugging down the street slowly unbalanced with riders and graffiti covering the sides

Nearly every storefront along the street has at least one broken window, and lines form outside some of them as the city begins waking up, and the shop owners decide to open. The small electronics components and grocery store seem to be the most frequented and have the longest lines. those in line are in ratty dress, most of them have at least one patch on an overcoat or boot.

Korrin turns to his companions. "Follow me, and stay relaxed. Just act natural." Whether he winks or blinks after saying that is unknowable, given the eyepatch. He meanders over to join the end of the line, and looks around, trying to pick up on the energy of the city as he waits.

The city is dour and its people dutiful. A level of control exists here along with a subliminal tension as people move off to work. A propaganda drone floats overhead, with several different corporate sponsors extolling the people to work harder, and congratulating them on record profits, though the city seems to have benefitted very little from this incredible amount of money. (edited)

7:37 AM

Most of the workers no longer even look up as the drone floats overhead

Korrin shudders, uncomfortable with the feel of the city. He continues to wait in line.

Those at the front of the line are walking away with plastic bags, full of smaller possessions. IBOX 15 is being advertised in the window on flashy screens. "If you don't have one, youre a bitch!" is the latest headline, and evidently here there are no rules about what you can do to push a product. Overhearing people in line, you hear them chat excitedly about draining their life savings or putting themselves into serious debt with their employers or other creditors to get their hands on whatever this device might be

3

Having seen what he needs, Korrin leaves the line, motioning for his squad to follow him, and continues walking the city. He looks for any signs of posters or graffiti promoting leftist causes, though his hopes for the city are starting to dwindle somewhat.

There are three officers with a power washer scrubbing off what was once a shadow drawing of a fist. FUCK IBOX is faded underneath , already having been passed over by the high pressure water several times

8:15 AM

It seems it’s repeated a few times down the adjoining street

Korrin wanders down the adjoining street, trying to act as casually as he can, though the presence of police has reminded him of his currently precarious situation in the city.

(Lets get a notice/wis)

(12)

Inside the third house on the left of the street you see that the gate into the yard has been left ajar and the side door has also been thrown open. Several personal items have been thrown into the yard and you hear the muffled sounds of someone fighting or pleading inside

Korrin motions for go squad to follow him to the house. "Wait outside for my signal and stay quiet, I don't want all of us to rush in at once, but I may need backup." As his troops take cover by a wall and ready their mag pistols, Korrin enters the side door warily.

Two bodies are near the door, shot dead in what looks to be the apartment kitchen. Both are male, one is old enough to be the other's father. A woman, and another younger boy have been forced onto their knees in the family room of the home, and two civic defense officers stand in the room as well. One has a pistol to the back of their heads, while the other is looking through furniture and drawers for something. He uses a knife to cut open a couch cover, stabbing deep into the fabric and sending down feathers everywhere.

Korrin doesn't hesitate. He shouts for backup as he pulls out his mag-pistol and fires at the man holding the gun to the hostages.

11:29 AM

(Your call on whether the other 3 get an attack this round)

(They did not hear you come in with their passive notice)

11:30 AM

(so they're surprised, and I'd say everyone can bundle in to handle this. )

(18/15 from Korrin, shooting at the other one the squad gets a 16/11) (edited)

Both intruders are put down quickly, and the mother dives, protecting her child underneath her body. It seems like based on the slit open couch, and the data cards and pamphlets you see inside, the authorities had rightly guessed the occupants of the home were involved in subversive activities

The squad wordlessly moves to the doors and windows, weapons ready, peering out at the street. Korrin moves over to the woman, and with little time for niceties hauls her up by the arm. "I know you're scared and I know we're strangers, but those shots were loud and more of them are going to come soon. We can take you to safety, but you're going to have to trust us, because we have to leave right now. I swear to you that we will keep you and your child safe." (Going to use the Authority 1 power if it's recharged)

She freezes for a moment, looking with dead eyes around the home and the bodies of the other half of her family. She nods once, wordlessly, and allows you to guide her

Korrin pushes the sadness he feels at the situation of the family and lets the machine take over, clinically performing the tasks required to get them and his squad back to their base of operations. He keeps one hand on the mag-pistol in his coat pocket as they walk through the streets, and he remains alert and suspicious, unsure if they were noticed.

As you leave the street, you hear the sounds of distant sirens. The shots were heard but the local response is slow. You'll be away before they get here

As they move further from the woman's home, Korrin begins to relax a bit. He looks down at the woman, frowning. He tries to find something to say. "I'm sorry about your family. I know it doesn't help. I will help you get justice, I swear it." He looks around, making sure no one is listening, and continues walking, trying to make it look like as normal a conversation as possible to an outside observer. "I'm from the CBSS. We're here to help, and I hate to ask you this, but I need your help getting in touch with the people that you and your... your husband know. We can make sure this never happens again."

she nods sharply a couple times as you move down the street, wiping away a tear "Not during the day, not now. Tonight, I will show you how to get in touch with them. They will find out about what happened soon too, and they will come looking. They may find us"

"We have a safehouse, a ways from here. We can take you and your boy there and protect you. Those weren't the first fascists I've killed, and they won't be the last."

The factory is quiet during the day, and the transients you relocated do not return. As the family settles in and the squad takes watch positions, you hear many more sirens joining the first, and clearly the site of the attack has become something of interest. One of the squad has patched into authority comms, just listening, careful not to send. They are for now looking at local culprits, not someone off world

Korrin takes a seat on an old crate, letting tension drain from his body. "Sounds like we might out of danger for now. Let's not push it by bringing attention to ourselves. We stay put, stay quiet, and wait until nightfall. Excuse me, uh, I didn't get your name. If there is anything you can do for you or your boy you let us know. You're under our care, here."

"Kayla, and this is my son Zakias. Thank you...for the help...I didn't think we were going to make it out. My husband was an accountant, helping the counter-movement here. He was a gentle man"

"His sacrifice won't be in vain. I can promise you that much. I know it won't bring him back, but he didn't die for nothing. The people who made this happen will face justice." Korrin looks away for a moment, abashedly. "I know it's a bad time, but we really do need to make contact with resistance groups. Are you ready to help us?" (edited)

"I am , if you have a radio or a handset I can get in touch with them, but we're going to have to relocate once I do. Its on an open channel, so everyone will hear us. Alternatively, we can go somewhere else and reach out so we dont lose this place if you're resolved to stay here"

"I'd rather go somewhere else, if you don't mind. I always feel a bit safer with a fall back point that I know."

"Of course, there's a park nearby we can go to. I'll try there, and we should have some warning if the authorities show up" She leads you through some winding streets to the main park, a few city block with no roads between them, left as a lush carpet of green. The black trees have leaves clinging to them, but they're unhealthy in the frosted air

7:38 AM

The park has a handful of people running, reading, or relaxing in the midday hours, though the cold seems to keep most away for now

Korrin pulls out the radio, turns it on, and hands it to Kayla. "If you'd do the honours." He remains alert, getting ready to extract her from the park as soon as they've organised a meeting.

There is a payphone, allegedly only for emergencies along one of the walking paths. Its bright yellow paint is flaking and rusted in a few spots. She picks up the handset, and punches in a number combination far longer than a phone number. "Yes. Yes. Central Terminal , that's right. No...no we lost him. My son too. I'm with friends"

8:02 AM

She turns to you, hanging up the handset. "The central transit terminal, ten minutes, and we'll get about half that to talk before anyone pokes their nose into things"

"Lead the way. Still getting familiar with the streets here."

She leads you through several city blocks, winding through alleys or doubling back now and again to belay any kind of following. It does not seem like anyone is, but her habits are born of an enteral caution. The recent deaths of her family have if anything, made this even more important. Finally, you're brought into a large train and bus terminal, where a man waits near the door. He has a dark suit on, and a wide hat, kept low to shade his eyes. She motions that this is the man you're meant to meet with.

8:33 AM

"Kayla." he says, curtly "I'm sorry for your loss. The resistance lost a hero."

8:33 AM

"I see you have a friend."

Korrin gives a curt nod. "Sergeant Felix of the CBSS. We helped Kayla with some unwanted attention. Sadly, we got there too late to help her husband. I'm here to offer support." (edited)

"You came" he says, doing his best to hide his emotions "Well, we have our work cut out for us. I don't know what your background is Sergeant Felix, but we could use all the help we can get"

"The CBSS is low on resources right now, and currently can send no more than my team and I, I will not lie to you comrade. I do believe that if we work together we can liberate this world. I will not abandon you in your struggle. Now, how will we communicate? We can't keep having meetings like this."

“No we can’t. You’re military so this is good timing. How do you feel about hitting the corporate data hub ?”

"Sounds like a perfect target. What's your plan?" (edited)

“Anything we recommend is probably going to be not to the level of what you would notice”

2:33 PM

“But it’s not far from here. It’s protected. Walls and guards, but not heavily. It’s not the only hub but losing one will slow things down and make some gaps”

(think of it like a cell phone data center, theres some armed security but overall, its a soft target)

"The Revolution starts with a single explosion, comrade. Consider it destroyed. I don't expect you to trust me straight away, so consider news of its destruction proof of our commitment to your cause. Kayla knows where our hideout is, you can meet us there when you feel ready for further contact. Wear a red cloth around your arm, so we know not to shoot."

"Once we get a report of the hub going up, let things die down for a few days and I'll be around"

7:25 AM

"they're going to be watching the streets. I don't want to lead them right to you"

"We will lay low and wait, don't worry. Just tell me where it is, and it will be done, and done well."

A quick map is sketched out for you, showing the hub nestled into the surrounding neighborhoods, not far from Kayla's former home. It is two streets over, and its chainlink fence and gate run right up to the sidewalk.

Korrin pockets the map. "Solidarity, comrade. We shall meet again." He nods and leads his squad away, towards the hub.

The hub is a large domed building that even during the daylight you can see neon lights from inside shining through the skylight. There are hundreds if not thousands of screens inside, all reflecting different colors. Corporate slogans play almost non-stop from inside, and a small map appears, grabbed by your technical expert

Satisfied with obtaining the schematics, Korrin leads the team back to base. Aware of how dangerous a firefight can be unarmoured, he has everyone wear their CFU under a large local coat, then convinces Yuri after a long debate to sit tight and wait until midnight before returning, armed with pocketed pistols and axes hidden within carrysacks.

9:53 AM

He has the team load up one of the demo charges, a metatool, a medkit and a toolkit, sharing the load out amongst them.

As night falls, and then continues dragging on, the hub continues its loud noises and bright lights. Two rent-a-cop looking security stand by out front, while another checks in with them at the door, before turning back inside to sweep the building

(I would like to try and sneak up on the two out the front to knock them out without killing them. Is that achievable?)

(We would need a sneak/dex to get close to them. If that hasn’t gone poorly Id say attack rolls with surprise, using fists or non lethal weapons)

(No non lethals other than pistol butts so it's probably fists. I got a 10 on my sneak/dex roll)

The guards are talking to one another, as you sneak around from the back of the hub's fenced lot. They do not seem to notice you, as they're too busy discussing sports and their hopes for various leagues to start back up

Korrin signals to charge, and runs towards the guards, fists raised.

11:28 PM

(Unless 11 is a hit all punch attacks miss this round)

(it does not, they have secure clothing)

7:31 AM

(initiative)

7:34 AM

(6 for these guys)

(5)

The two guards are surprised at the sudden and overwhelming attack though neither are a true match for trained soldiers, flailing with their stun batons. The true danger now, is ending this quickly before the alarm can be sounded

7:57 AM

(i got a 8 and 9, so super miss)

Korrin groans in frustration, realising his hand has been forced. He hisses 'Axes!', and draws his own before returning to the fray. ( 21/7 for the only hit )

The axe crunches down, biting deep into armor and into the flesh beneath The stun baton cracks against Yuri, burning a large segment of his arm. The large bear of a man hisses in suppressed pain. If this was a normal battlefield, the big man would be bellowing

Unable to yell encouragement to his Corporal, Korrin pushes forward against the enemy, fury in his eyes. ( 15/8 14/8 14/4 )

The two soldiers are hacked to pieces, their dark blood bubbling into the poorly formed cement, and pooling under their now lifeless bodies. Stun batons crackle in slack hands

8:13 AM

The guard inside seems to not have noticed

"Roberts, Imada, take the batons. Ali, help me move these corpses somewhere less noticeable. Yuri, take a second to breathe, then we push in. We're on a timer now." Korrin moves the remains of the guards to the nearest nook, hoping no one will notice the blood. "Roberts and Imada, you'll lead, try and stun that guard before he notices us. The rest will come behind with axes if it doesn't work."

8:25 AM

(Sneak/Dex 10)

It takes just a moment, the other guard and his headless body is dragged out of the other room. "He tried going for the alarm. We took care of it. Didn't see any traffic inside showing authorities are on their way, but someone will notice soon"

"You did what was necessary. Axes up, and fan out. Let's see what surprises this place has for us." Korrin brushes some of the falling snow out of his hair, and leads his squad in.

(Just searching the hub, looking for information and good places to set off an explosion)

It seems that there is no aspect of private life here that the corporations don't have a window in on. You see more than one feed is set in a family home, usually in a private room like the living space or bedroom. More than one couple is engaged in intimacy, across the spread of thousands of screens within screens. There are also several tracking and tracing programs running in the background, each one an email scanned without its creators knowledge, a database of 'unacceptable' words updated, or some other nefarious form of surveillance being undertaken. This process seems to be happening on its own, or at least controlled elsewhere. Data centers like this speed the complex data manipulation

Disgusted by what he is seeing, Korrin turns away from the latest set of screens, his face dark. "Destroy any machinery you see." He lifts his axe and slices through the nearest processing units without hesitation. "Keep searching, break things as you go."

Aside from a few commercial grade compads, there is nothing of value in the hub itself, though you're able to abscond with the contents of the first aid kit and what you presume to be a few days of forgotten lunches in the fridge. Demolition charges are set at the pillars holding the building up

"Lets clear out the back, then set off the charges. We'll take a winding route back to base in case we've been tailed or tracked. Stay alert." Korrin leads the team out, then sets off the charges.

As you reach the street, you see Six people have been forced to kneel on the sidewalk, and two officers walk behind them, for now looking at something on compads, and conferring with one another about whatever the matter here happens to be. You recognize the patches on the uniforms from Kayla's house earlier, and Yuri motions to you, pointing to friendlies on the sidewalk nearby. He's trying to hide his comm system in his coat

7:54 AM

(hub hasnt gone up yet)

Korrin looks over at the friendlies across the road, places a finger in front of his lips slowly while staring at them, then whispers discreetly to his squad. "Pistols, we shoot when the place detonates to cover the noise." He cradles his pistol in his hand in a coat pocket, waiting for the explosion.

8:23 AM

(Korrin misses, squad gets CRIT/14 18/9)

Korrin and his detail make ready to head into the city, on their hunt for security uniforms and other security clearance necessities to aid in their coming operation

The patrols keep random routes through the city and generally respond when corporate property is destroyed

Leading his squad out of their BoO, Korrin begins searching for a smaller corporate building, out of the way but still reasonably important, like a power substation or a telecommunications tower.

There is a power substation at the border of the factory district. The building is not manned or patrolled but it’s construction is hardened, essentially a concrete bunker inside a small compound, bordered by a double layered electrical chain link fence

Korrin looks over at Roberts. "Do you think you'd be able to take down that electric fence? I want to get in and cause some kind of alarm to go off. Then we just need to find cover nearby and lie in wait until a patrol arrives."

"If we've got that demolition charge or a grenade on us I could probably knock one o f the poles out at least. That might start something"

"It's the last of our demo charges, but it's worth it. Make it happen. Once you've set it up, we'll take up a position on the roof across the road. When the patrol gets here, we headshot the fascists, strip 'em, dump 'em, and get the fuck out of here."

He nods, and begins working on switching it from remote detonation to timed, as its less likely to be interfered with by the electrical signals in the fence. After a few moments of careful fiddling and re-splicing wires , he nods, and throws the unassuming looking duffel near the fence

8:10 AM

"It's going to break all the glass on this block. If we're on the roof its going to knock a lot of grit into the air too. If you packed your goggles, now would be a good time to put them on. Don't need the boss here losing his other eye"

8:10 AM

He pats Korrin on the back "Maybe the conclave will grow you a new one when we get back, if this goes well"

Korrin smiles. "I think the eyepatch makes me look rough. I might keep it." He laughs with his troops, before setting the plan in motion, and slotting some goggles over his eyes.

There is a short series of beeps, and a large explosion as the glass, grit, and fence all explode as one.

9:41 AM

An alarm from within the facility begins sounding , and sirens from other areas of the city begin responding

Korrin takes up his combat rifle, and lays down low on the roof, keeping watch for his squad. The others remain slightly behind, alert and hidden.

Two vehicles, both of them response cars that are more apt for conflict arrive. They are squat bodied jeeps, with armored doors and panels. a roof gunner pans the rooftops with a heavy machine gun and searchlight next to it

Korrin stays prone, revealing none of himself to the scanning floodlight. He signals to his team to get ready, waiting for the rest of the enemy to get out of their vehicles.

11:52 AM

(I want to go for an execution here, or would it just be a surprise round if I surprise them?)

11:52 AM

(Definitely trying to take out the mounted gunner first)

(You've got a general firing position set up, its been a full minute and you were expecting combat, so we can try for the execution)

(Am I doing it as a squad or is it just for Korrin shooting the gunner?)

(Korrin for this gunner first, and we can go down the row with the others depending on whos left)

(9)

The gunner on the lead machine gun falls over, forehead shot through and bullet not exiting the back of the helmet the second gunner is still facing the other direction, gun not panned around when the next member of your squad fires

12:05 PM

(would be 2d6+2 since its a check and not an attack roll, so we dont apply AB here)

(7)

The second shot misses, digging into the armored turret shield as it begins swinging around

(11)

The third shot knocks out the other gunner, though the drivers of the vehicles do not get out, and instead stop their cars

12:13 PM

(initiative)

(8)

The vehicles switch to onboard control for their guns and the bodies are dragged inside, hatches sealed as the CBSS special forces group begins readying to continue their ambush (6)

(I get the bonuses for being prone and behind heavy cover right?)

(yes)

"Stay low and light 'em up!" Korrin sprays bursts into the cabins of the patrol vehicles, hoping to wipe out the squad before they can hit back. (Korrin: 16/5 Squad: rifles 23/5 17/12 sniper CRIT/10, added 2 to the combat rifle shots cos I forgot to add it from burst fire when I rolled)

The sniper with its armor piercing round kills the driver in the first and the car begins rolling slowly into a lightpost, before halting. The rest of the local response is dead as well, though reinforcements will be here within moments

The squad begins moving as soon as it seems likely that their opponents are dead, making their way to the smoking vehicles below. "Strip their uniforms, take any equipment they have on them, then we light these wrecks on fire with the corpses inside. They might not realise we've taken the uniforms. Either way, we light them and get out. I don't want to get into another firefight."

taking the uniforms is not a graceful process, and as the wrecks burn, you have 3 complete uniforms that are not blood stained, shot apart, or burned betweenn everyone. Civil defense forces do respond, but you're already gone by time they arrive

1:31 PM

(3xp, 5000 creditS)

(With the 3xp for the succesful ambush goal that brings me to level 5)

9:06 PM

Level 5
Take Authority 2 Focus
Gain 4SP + 2SP stored
Spend 5SP raising Dex 2 points to 18 (2nd and 3rd ability score raise)
Spend 1 SP raising Program to 0
HP Roll: 42

(Were you heading back to base?)

(Yeah)

5:31 AM

(If it's all chill on the way back then I'd like to try and make/rustle up some gear, like drones or grenades or anything else useful that's left near the warehouse base)

(If we want drones we would have to scramble or shoot down some@corporate ones )

(I've got time, that sounds good. We'll do it on the way back.)

8:11 AM

Sticking to backstreets, the soldiers move calmly towards their occupied warehouse. Korrin quietly orders them to keep a look out for lone government drones, as a drone of their own to run lookout could only be useful in the days to come.

The drones of this city number almost as much as the people. They range from the massive Grogon Stare security drones that can watch everything happening on whole blocks at once (and are the size of jumbo jets) to the smaller and more purpose built quadcopter couriers. These bots can sometimes fly in flocks before splitting off individually to their various destinations

Wanting to get something discrete, Korrin opts to try and capture some of the smaller quadcopters. He pulls out his compad and connects to the local net, searching for any kind of business offering drone delivery services.

Care Package LTD is currently offering sales on parcels delivered to friends who might need a boost. Most of the actual contents are cheap corporate trinkets and snack foods based on the advertisements

Feeling a pang of hunger, Korrin places an order for a few snacks, musing at their names having nothing to do with the product, more used to the less corporatized fare on Vadhat and Pelasgon. He pulls out his recently acquired stun baton, and instructs his troops to relax, deciding to handle this task himself. He pulls a scarf over the lower part of his face in an attempt to conceal his identity from any prying cameras.

The drone pulls to the location designated, hovering low with its brightly colored basket of "payroll avoidance puffs" and "Late state capitalism crunch" its sensors whirr, trying to identify who paid for the snack delivery

1

Korrin wanders over to the drone amicably before quickly whipping out the stun baton and tazing the unfortunate drone.

9:48 PM

(Execution or attack roll?)

(we can go for the execution)

(13)

The drone has no chance to react as the baton leaps out and smashes across its front sensor array. It wobbles as it’s plunged into the ground, spilling its payload of snacks

The squad moves in quickly to gather up the drone, while Korrin himself grabs one of the snacks, trying it. Thats not half bad, he thinks, smirking. "Right, let's get this back to base ASAP. We could use a friendly eye in the sky for the upcoming missions." (edited)

(Counts as a stalker drone, and I tihnk there's enough junk around here for you to fit it how you need to)

Eyebot-1 
-Observation Suite
-Stationkeeping
-Expert System

The drone is easily fitted out using some scrap electronics found in the warehouse, and with a little bit of help from technically minded specialists in the squad

(Gotta wait on Jannick to do the mission, should I just chill out til then? I can just roleplay korrin hanging out til then hahaha)

(He’s about to knock out the files and whatnot so you can at least stage up for the next leg of your operations )

(I tihnk we can get you two together now)

(noice, Ill make a post in the hour)

(Sounds good!)

"we did it Comrade Korrin" Yuri says, handing you a cigar. "The planet, and these brothers and sisters. They are with us now"

Korrin takes one, and lights it off the end of Yuri's before taking a few puffs. "They'll finally be able to work for themselves, rather than their oligarchs. I'd be lying if I said I wanted to stay, though. This place is so cold my balls have turned to ice. It's time for a change of scenery, Yuri."

5:04 AM

(I'll post more with direction later unless you've got some ideas)

"We should get back to Pelasgon then, now that the job is done, and we'll see what comes next. There are other worlds out there, other worlds that need to be brought into the light

5:28 AM

(also 6xp, 10,000 credits from city liberation)

**Level 6**
45HP
Lead-3 for 4SP
AB5

1

9:14 AM

"Let's get out of here. They need builders here, not soldiers. It's time to see the Chairman."

A shuttle from the fleet above swings down to collect the surviving members of your squad, and the ramp lowers, throwing up a large cloud of snow

(1 day of downtime back home)

(Training Survive 1/90)

Robert pinned a message to this channel. 8/25/2020 11:17 PM

The chairman is eager to speak with you as you return home, and the pleasantries this time are all but forgotten- you are now to true revolutionaries, speaking face to face as social equals. He bids you sit, and there are noticeably less luxuries about the office that aren't decorations that would remain here as part of the state after his eventual passing.

Feeling somewhat uneasy for reasons he can't quite explain, Korrin takes a seat and removes his beret. "Chairman, it's an honour to be back, especially with such good news. How has the CBSS fared in my absence?"

"We are growing, expanding, bringing more into the picture than ever before. I had a long talk with some trusted friends of mine from the Revolutionary days, and I had begun to live beyond what a brother of the party should be, while his people are suffering. you do not need to be afraid for yourself, or for the health of our group"

"What do you mean, Chairman? You're dying? What happened to the old soldier that led our people without rest through the revolution?"

He pauses pensively for a moment. "I will not be dying, I have another 500 years of good health in me, if the treatment Mr. Trivedi has given me takes hold. I feel better every day. I am saying I have enjoyed fine liquors, cigars, and fine food here in my office while the common man has rough bread and vodka from engine coolant for dinner. I had grown comfortable, fat even, while the workers we meant to empower had nothing"

10:26 AM

"Until things here get better, i will share in their struggles"

Korrin grins, relieved. "You got me worried there, old man. As sad as I'll be to see you go, I agree with your reasons. It's a new age for our people, we should start to do things differently. We're not in a crisis anymore." Korrin leans back in his chair, relaxing. "Thank you for your service to the people, Chairman, I truly believe we wouldn't have half of what we have now if it weren't for you. That still leaves the question of what happens when you step down, however."

"As long as the CBSS is growing, and building, I will remain before you in this chair. The people will be happy, and life will improve for the common worker as much as for the party chiefs. I understand you're back from your posting abroad. The planet is ours now and soon their resources will be distributed to all- especially those needing them most here on Pelasgon

"Sorry about the confusion comrade, I'll admit things can often be more life and death than I'd like it in my line of work, and sometimes I bring that home with me. I'm definitely looking forward to that ice world becoming part of our union, ready to work in solidarity towards a better future, but I'd rather not go back for a while. That place was fucking cold."

"Well, before we do, I have something to show you. Do you mind if we take a walk?"

"A walk outside in weather completely absent of ice sounds incredible, Chairman."

The chairman makes his way out from behind his desk, and presses something on it. The desk begins to fold away, opening a large hatch in the floor, large enough for both of you to stand on. "We're not going outside, not yet at least, but I want you to see something the CBSS has been working on. You're going to bring the revolution to more places, and we need to make sure you survive to do it"

Equal parts confused and curious, Korrin stands, staring down at the hatch. "You've got my attention, Yuri. What have you got down there?"

The elevator brings you down a brightly lit access shaft, to a machine shop where scientists, technicians, and skilled workers in CBSS government service finish adjustments on a trio of suit mechs. The are steel green, almost grey in paint, and their arms are empty, with a variety of upsized armaments nearby on tables and arming racks. The space is incredibly noisy as heavy machinery completes components and prepares to help fit the suits to their user. "I understand you took some losses on Al-Thynnian. Their names will be honored as heroes, along with your own. We thought it smart to fit the survivors. Your friend Katie, from the planet is also here, and the finances her husband had set aside for the rebels helped complete this work"

4

9:14 AM

"She was adamant that you were to be kept safe"

Korrin is momentarily lost for words. "That was very kind of her. I'll have to thank her at some point." He steps closer to the large mechanical suits, slowly running his hand along its metal once he's close enough to touch one. "We'd be able to assault even the most impregnable position in these. They're marvelous! You're telling me I get to use them?"

"These suit mechs will keep you safe, and are yours to use for the glory of the party. You're also going to be picking your next posting. We have other agents quelling our internal strife. We need to decide where else to bring the light of workers rights"

"I'm honoured. I'll make sure that we use them to their full effectiveness." His gaze never leaves the mechs. "I'll need to review the state of the worlds around us. I've been out of the loop for some time. Do we have much intel on nearby worlds?" (edited)

"nothing aside from what is on the galactic star charts. We could be the first to fill in some of the gaps here"

"I'd like to check out Vari first. We need to expand in that direction to prevent Greystar encirclement, I feel."

"We have no information on this world. Korrin, if you would bring the flag of the CBSS there, we would be ever honored"

"I'll be ready once you have the transport prepped to go."

(I think the free merchant has room for the three suits )

(technically 2, but in this case we can fudge a bit since its all youre bringing)

(Yep, throw them in, can I swap out the teams combat rifles for mag rifles? I'm seeing them as better fitting the CBSS aesthetic, in the sense that lobbing metal spikes is cheap and effective when you have a lot of scrap metal and fuck all else.)

1:32 AM

(Potentially even a heavy weapon for Yuri if that isnt OP)

(The weapons are weapons your person is carrying so you can use a couple of the heavy weapons or mag rifles )

(Would 3 railguns be over the top?)

(like one railgun on each?)

(yes)

(not at all)

(Lock them in)

Railguns are fitted, one to each of the suit mechs as you look on. "As for the rest of what you think the fittings should be, we will leave that to you. We have no information on this world or what might be there, and getting back might be difficult. We need to ensure the party elite are capable of surviving the conditions"

(Suit mech? Im assuming shock?)

(theyre suit mechs yes, 2 shocks and 1 specialist for the team medic or engineer)

"I'll sort that out with the engineers. I've got some ideas for these machines. I appreciate this support, it'll make a pitched battle much easier to fight if it comes to that." Korrin finally stops gazing at the mechs. "I suppose I need to get ready to leave."

"Make speed, all the speed you can. The others are growing around us, and we need to ensure we are not boxed in"

Korrin’s Mech
Speed 4 | Armour 12 | HP 15 | AC 18
Cutter Plates 5/3 (1d12 melee)
Breaching Tool 1/1
Drop Sheathing 1/1

Yuri’s Mech
Speed 4 | Armour 12 | HP 15 | AC 18
Field Medical Unit 2/1
Cutter Plates 5/3 (1d12 melee)
Drop Sheathing 1/1

Imada’s Mech
Speed 6 | Armour 8 | HP 10 | AC 17
Active Camo Surface 1/2
Antigrav Nodes 2/4
Morphic Silhouette Dampener 1/2
Drop Sheathing 1/1

11:08 AM

(I'm happy to skip ahead to en route if theres no complications)

Nekosmash pinned a message to this channel. 9/4/2020 11:16 AM

(okay, I gotta draw the actual surface itself since we're doing mroe than just passing by)

Hybrid Biosphere Temperate Breathable Atmosphere TL 4 Millions of Inhabitants Vari has two habitable planets in its Goldilocks zone near the sun, both of which are temperate worlds that contain a mix of terran seeded plants and animals along with native flora and fauna. Vari 1 contains several small settlements of colonists, inhabiting the world only decades before The Scream and associated disconnection from the wider universe. The villages have maintained the technological sophistication of frontier pre-scream days, and there is evidence of a pre-scream working still functioning on Vari 1 judging by energy and climate readings. There are currently no settlements on Vari 2, though the remains of an exodus ship can be seen where several pieces of it have carved artificial canyons through the heavily forested surface.

Standing in the bridge of the mech transport, Korrin looks over the shoulder of a sensor tech at the system scan readouts. "A good find, this system. A new culture to enrich our brotherhood and another world to settle. At this rate the shortages will end by the close of the year! Take us down to that larger settlement on the northern end of the lake there. We'll meet the locals." (Take me down to Vari Good)

Vari-Good is a brightly painted city where neon and pastel colors contrast against a deep grey sky. The cloud cover is thick as the free merchant makes its landing some distance from the city. Smokestacks belch colored smoke into the sky, though it’s tinged with pollution. The inhabitants are human, but have not made contact with the ship on its way down

"So much for the welcome party." Korrin looks to his squad. "Suit up, but let's leave the mechs on the ship for now. Don't want to scare the locals. Pistols only. We'll go introduce ourselves and see how the representatives of the CBSS can help their settlement, and work from there." He moves over to the slowly descending exit ramp, securing the last of his gear to his CFU.

The free merchant lands 10km outside the city where its notlikely to get walked up on by anyone casually out away from the city. The trees are varied, all different species of terran and native plants woven together to form a rich biosphere. Brightly colored birds and bugs head skward as the ship comes down, gently bending boughs but not breaking the incredibly elastic branches.

8:45 AM

The forest floor is quiet, animals feeing from the sounds of the ship coming down and setting into the clearing

Korrin gazes out at the verdant landscape, feeling the warmth of the air as the ramp opens and the local atmosphere floods in. "This is my kind of planet! Alright squad, let's move, I'd like to reach the settlement while the sun's still up." Before waiting for the ramp to push itself into the loamy soil below, Korrin jumps out and begins the trek towards Vari-Good. (edited)

Heading through the wood,s the animals remain kept away. A road crosses the forest, heading toward the city and through the trees a bus passes by, along with several cars. Traffic seems light this far out.

9:00 AM

The people here however seem to be enjoying the benefits of a modern society, and the public transport is decades ahead of what Pelasgon currently boasts

Korrin whistles, impressed. "These people might be able to show us a thing or two. Let's go say hi. We'll follow the road into the city and see what happens." He puts on a laconic smile and keeps walking.

(youre in combat armor though still right?)

10:27 AM

(just in terms of gauging people's reactions)

(Yes, didnt cover it or anything, poor idea in hindsight but lets roll with it, no overt weaponry at least)

Another bus goes by, this one slowing, before its side door opens. The driver is sitting on a plush chair, keeping him upright. "You boys look lost? Need a hand? You get lost during a training exercise or something?"

"I used to be in the service. You always get that Second Lieutenant who thinks they're the gods gift to land nav, and you get more lost than you'd have managed on your own"

"We could definitely use a lift, friend. We're not lost, we're just not from around here. Can you give us a ride into town?"

“Of course. Hop in. Take a seat and hang on to something. Suspension isn’t what it used to be” The door shuts once you’re aboard with a hiss of brakes and the bus begins moving again toward the city. “So where are you from anyway?”

As his squad takes a seat, Korrin moves up to sit by the driver. "Offworld, actually. I'm here on what's shaping up to be a diplomatic mission. You live around here? What's it like here?"

“I live in Vari-Good and forgive me for saying this but it’s a very good place to live. You’ve got the normal troubles every urban area has but we rebounded from what the wider galaxy seems to be calling “The Scream”. Everyone got together and just starting putting the stones back on top of each other again. We got lucky. Had a few brilliant minds who kept everyone organized and working together”

"From what I can tell, most worlds weren't so lucky. I'm impressed with how well you've kept it together here. Our people have a lot to offer each other." Korrin leans forward. "You seem like a decent type, do you think you could tell us who to talk to first? I'd rather not cause an incident on our first day here if at all possible." (edited)

"Thats why you showed up here in combat armor right?" he smirks. "Well, I'd start with city leadership here, walking into town hall and explaining your position. You won't need an appointment once they hear what you have to say ,and you already don't look like you're from here. I'm sure you could furnish other proof if you're asked to"

8:24 AM

"They might not be able to agree to anything on their own, especially if its about the whole planet, but those guys all talk and play golf. Word will get around and you'll get in front of the right people

Korrin smirks, abashed. "If I'm being honest, I'm just so used to wearing it I forgot about the message it gives off. The worlds of my people have seen a lot of suffering even before the Scream. We've come a long way, but old habits die hard, sadly." "Thanks for the tips, friend. I'll be sure to check in on them, authorities permitting." Korrin leans back, relaxing again. "I rather like this world, I'd like to be able to come back here in the future, so you can understand that a lot is riding on me not fucking it all up right now." A wide grin spreads across his face.

"I don't have much. Kinda..well..I drive a bus. I think that's all I need to say about my personal financial situation, but you're welcome to see if anything more world fitting in could help you along your way from my closet"

"You're welcome to anything that might fit you sir" "Though you" he says looking up at Yuri "We might have to dress you up as the bus"

9:26 AM

THe big man looks as though he is about to smash the bus driver's head through the windshield before the joke catches up with him, and laughs so hard the floor tile under him begins to shake

"Thank you friend, I'd like to take you up on the offer. Maybe you could tell us a bit about the political situation here while we're at it? The CBSS is focused on the interests of the working class, and I've found that such a stance has had mixed responses from other societies."

“The wealth is not shared as you’d like it to be, just going by what you’ve said. There are rich men here despite the cooperative approach we are supposed to be taking to working with one another. Construction industries especially have a lot of power and wealth”

"How do the people feel? My team and I are admittedly experts at changes in ownership of the means of production, but I've got no interest in trying to force conflict on a peaceful world."

"I think most people are feeling upset by this. We all work hard, we all deserve some of the good things that come out of it, and every year we're seeing our piece of the pie made smaller with taxes or fees, or just the cost of living outstripping what we earn. We've asked for some wage stabilization a few times, maybe even de-valuing our local currency for a bit to get inflation under control, but its these bankers, and stocks, and them making money hand over fist at our expense

"Perhaps I'm coming to the wrong people, then. Is there some kind of union, workers collective, something like that, that would be open to outside help?"

"We as public transport have tried to unionize and they keep offering us more money to abandon the idea. It's become a bit of a negotiation tactic more than anything serious by the would be union organizers lately, and I think some of the seriousness of it has been lost"

(re-posted here from your faction channel, as CBSS informers have found some information) Vari is plagued by the beginnings of a capitalist movement, where unions, labor organizations, and the common man is not acknowledged by the government here. The people are not being widely repressed, but are being ignored by their leaders and the political institutions are beginning to leave them behind. There are small protests that are typically peacefully scattered , though the tipping point is gradually getting closer. Informants have discovered that the election commission here is fraudulently reporting votes, and has their first hooks into some kind of a wider conspiracy, but the report ends before further information can be obtained (edited)

Reviewing the CBSS data dump just received by his commpad, Korrin begins formulating a plan. "My good man, if you wouldn't mind helping us get some local clothes, I'm sure we can see about helping you out with your societal issues. I wouldn't mind checking out one of these protests if you know where one is kicking off in the next few days?"

“There’s one scheduled tonight. The biggest so far and you’re more than welcome to anything in my closet. So far it hasn’t been too violent but that could change at any moment really “

"We'll be there to help if it goes ugly, but I'm more interested in meeting some people that could utilise our help." Korrin thinks for a moment. "You're putting yourself at risk here, right? I don't want to drag you into anything you don't want to be a part of." (edited)

'No, it's going to be bad for my kids, if I ever have any, or their kids, if we don't do something now. This has to be done" The bus parks in front of his home, which is a very small and run down exterior ranch, but on the inside you can see he does his absolute best to keep it clean. A few past due bills are on the counter, and he sighs on looking at them

"I don't want to abuse your hospitality friend, we'd be happy to do some work around your home to make up for the trouble."

"get us out of this situation, and maybe when this is all over you can come pick the weeds out of my flower beds or something" he laughs. He gestures to the fridge. "Help yourselves. There's beer, and some leftovers from dinner last night. Not really in the mood for either myself"

7:17 AM

He heads up the wide wooden steps of the home, winding around the landing, and you hear him opening drawers and doors upstairs on the hunt for some things that might fit you

Yuri wanders over, grabbing beers for the entire squad and passing them out. I have no idea how we are going to fit him in that mans clothes, Korrin thinks, smiling. He gathers the squad around after they've begun to relax a bit. "We're going to take it nice and easy on this world, at least for the outset. Stay pleasant and amiable and don't shoot unless I do." He pulls off one of his trademark winks, well aware of how pointless the gesture is when wearing an eyepatch. "I'd like to see just what kind of people there are to work with here before we go around righting societal wrongs and the like."

Everyone seems in agreement, and your friend returns downstairs with bundles of clothes around his arms. "I'm a better bus driver than fashion designer" he says, taking one of the drinks for himself. "I just grabbed everything, take whatever you need. For you big guy, I don't know if we can find anything in the pile but you're free to take a look.

The soldiers begin changing, as Yuri begins pawing through the pile looking for a large stretchy jumper, or anything that will fit him. Korrin turns to the amiable man. "Think you could give us directions to the protest tonight?"

"The marchis coming right down this street actually and you can follow them right to the mayoral building here. I'd expect if trouble happens its going to happen there. They haven't started shooting up private homes at random, yet"

"Sounds like a perfect way for us to slip into the crowd unnoticed and unmolested. Hell, we could bring some of our gear if we keep it covered. Mind if we stay here until then?"

"Not at all. Family is out of town, sent them to the countryside with things getting so tense here'

10:53 AM

"nice to have some people around to talk to

"I spent a good few days on a small spaceship on the way here. I'd appreciate a few hours relaxing in a nice home. Feel like teaching us a local card game?"

10:55 AM

(Happy to timeskip)

“Sure.” Several hands pass, and several other games until everyone is throughly bored. Evening comes and the March comes close. You can hear the din of people moving from a long distance off , along with the flickering lights of flashlights , torches and glowbugs

"Right, keep your pistols but keep them covered and don't use them unless I say so, even if someone's coming at you. We don't want to start a fight we can't finish just yet. We'll flow with the crowd, try and stay near the front without being overly visible." Korrin hands out some bandanas fashioned from whatever spare fabric there was to be found in the bus drivers house. "Keep these on over your face, and keep your heads low, the longer we can't get picked up by facial recognition the better. This city is advanced, so their law enforcement might have a bunch of tricks up it's sleeve that we aren't used to. Stay sharp and be ready to adapt on the fly, same as usual. Let's go lads." Korrin gives a curt nod to the bus driver and heads out into the passing crowd.

"If something happens, run back here, hop the fence and cover in the backyard. I'll make my way back home as soon as I can if things get ugly, but I'm marching too"

3:32 PM

The march is packed, thousands of people with signs, chants, and banners march down the street toward the government building, 100m away at the end of the street, the first red and blue lights can be seen as a police cruiser pulls up to the scene, followed by a truck with soldiers. They're dressed in combat gear though are favoring shields and clubs rather than firearms thus far. there are about 40 of them in a loose line, preparing to try to disperse the crowd

Not planning on starting a fight at someone elses protest, Korrin keeps a keen eye on the crowd, looking for anyone that may be marshalling or facilitating the protest. He glances at the security forces occasionally so as to not lose sight of them but otherwise does nothing to antagonise them.

There are a few ringleaders who have come with crowbars. They’re trying to break chunks of the pavement off to hand out for throwing at policemen. The police are readying a pair of high pressure water cannons toward the back of their skirmish line, and should be ready to fire in a few moments. The shield wall in front takes a few bricks but nothing serious

"Keep an eye on the ringleaders, we'll try to follow them once this all goes to shit, which it looks like it just might." His soldiers nod, preparing for chaos.

(If you were trying to stop anything now would be the time)

(I’ll narrate this closed when I’m back to a computer )

1

The protest evolves into something violent as Korrin watches in horror. Dozens are gunned down as the police fan out, now under orders from the council to suppress those violating good public order. The conflict is over quickly, as over the next few nights Korrin and his team begin removing important officials from power, through a mix of intimidation, assassination, and a final street battle where the small CBSS team and their suit mechs lead a true workers rebellion into a new age. The CBSS flag is unveiled over the town hall in Vari-Good, and the rest of the planet soon follows, now occupied, and slowly falling into line.

1:19 PM

It would be remiss to believe all resistance here has been quieted, or that the council did not have supporters with deep pockets- who now have had much to lose with the change in power. They can only work from the shadows now, but that may be more than enough.