Iron Stars - regulus

Regulus awakens to another day in self imposed exile. His talents in teaching and metapsionics perhaps wasted in the time after the scream, or so he had thought. Another advertisement for the psionics academy scrolls by on the tv screen. Maybe today is the day after all

Regulus rubs sleep weary eyes and glances down at the disheveled piles of papers and books. His research over the last two years had been uninspired and perfunctory--a few hastily scribbled notes on the scream or psychic theory--something to pass the time rather than the true academic passion he faintly recalled. "This used to mean something to me..." he whispers into his hands. Old doubts run through his mind, arguments he's had with himself many times over the last two years. "They're going to think me some mad hermit crawling out of a hole." He glances at his haggard face in a nearby mirror and chuckles, "and who's to say they'd be wrong... a half-feral recluse coming to teach their moldable children." He closes his eyes for a minute, shutting out his thoughts, "don't think, just do." Eyes still closed he waves his hand and the scattered papers collect and gather into his hand. Regulus lets out a grunt of exertion, "going to need to get back into shape..." He places his research into a pack dusty with disuse. "Don't think, just do." And he walks out the door.

The air is warm for the late august day, slowly getting warmer, and more humid, though occasionally cut by a pleasant breeze coming in off the lake. The academy is not far

9:44 AM

Just a short walk, and shorter drive, to the western side of the city

Regulus shifts a bit uncomfortably in his heavy cloak and starts walking further into the city towards the academy.

The city streets are busy even at this early time of morning. People rush here and there on various errands. Ships descend from orbit above regularly, carrying cargo to and from the orbital platform above. Birds chirp and wheel overhead, flying through growing residential towers. The academy is ahead, atop a flight of broad steps. The words SERVE. PROTECT. EDUCATE. NURTURE are carved above the entryway

A bit skittish in the unfamiliar crowds, Regulus quickly heads up the steps and slips inside.

A korean woman, short, but radiating an incredible sense of peace, sits behind the desk, humming happily as she oils the joints of a very old janitor bot

"Um, hello? I'm here to inquire about a potential position at the academy if you've room for me."

Her song stops, she perks up. "Ah really? a position?. She closes her eyes for a moment. "Ah I see, you're a metapsion as well. Thank god. I was getting so exhausted doing all these screenings myself. ... and in that excitement I've forgotten to introduce myself. I'm Dr. Doona Ahn. Pleased to meet you"

"Regulus Fate. A pleasure." He reaches out to shake her hand. "Yes I've some training in the metapsionic arts, though I'm afraid I'm a bit rusty. I've been... away for a while."

11:07 AM

"If there's anything I can do for you to prove my worth, I am at your service." He glances around taking in the interior of the academy.

(Can you send me the electrokinesis stuff? I haven't looked at that yet)

(sure thing!)

12:19 PM

"It's nice to meet you and to have such a dedicated applicant already. There have been a lot of people coming in looking for guidance, both discovering MES, or, well, magic . There is simply so much we do not know" she says.,

12:19 PM

"We need a leader. Silvano has done what he can, but he's a combat leader, not an administrator"

Regulus shakes his head slightly, almost talking to himself, "Goodness knows I'm no expert at combat, but I do have some training to work as a professor though I left before actually becoming one. I'm.. not entirely sure I'm comfortable leading anything right away though. And I've no experience with any magical powers outside the spectrum of psionics. And I admit I'm more of a scholar than a leader..." Regulus sighs don't overthink it Reg, you want this and looks Doona in the eyes, "but if I'm being totally honest, leading my own school is a bit of a dream of mine."

(Been looking at the faction stuff so I can take over eventually, about how long is a month in game? I also have some questions about leveling up, but we can get to that when I get there)

(Game month’s have been averaging about 2-4 RL weeks.)

(Cool, so beyond PC actions, I'd only have to do faction actions then? Looks pretty interesting, obviously Reg will be pretty concerned about personally completing his faction goals too)

(there are some faction endeavors, and yeaj 2-4 weeks depending on whats going on, we are about to have a month change)

2:03 PM

(I'm using endeavors instead of the kind of bland faction goals from the book, its more engagement than just waiting for faction turns to pass)

(Is that in one of the other books I could read up on?)

(no, its something i adapted from another game)

"Is there anything in particular I could help with at the moment? I trained in metapsionics at the academy, and over the last two years I have developed a bit of a knack for telekinesis too. But I don't have much practical experience using it yet. I should work off my own rust before I teach of lead anyone."

“Fancy some travel west? We have a message that’s come in from one of the taros cities, carinhold. Seems maybe MES or something like it is making itself known out there, too

"That sounds just fine. Anyone coming with me?"

"I am, as another metapsion, I think it will be a good time to compare notes"

"That would be great. I haven't quite mastered the ability to take on students safely, any advise would be very helpful. We could double the amount of students and children we could keep safe."

8:48 PM

"I'm ready to go when you are"

"meet me at the airport in two hours. I just need to wrap up some arrangements here"

"Alright, I'll meet you there. Would it be ok if I take a stroll around the facilities here? Just to get my bearings."

"Of course, I was just about to suggest that" she says (under the UNW tab, there is a psi academy sub folder, there is a floorplan in it, which is easier to use than me trying to explain it )

(Cool, does he sense any others using psionics right now?)

7:50 AM

Upon finding the training rooms, Regulus takes some time to practice his telekinesis while stretching his metapsionic senses.

7:52 AM

(Also, what all can we do with the psionic forge?)

7:53 AM

(Just make the psionic crystals for now?)

(the forge is in rebirth, and you can infuse techniques into gear. Kaleb made MES detecting goggles for example, so basically you can see MES currents in the air even if youre not a metapsion

(Awesome, love to look into that when I have more techniques) After training for a minute, Regulus heads to the airport to meet Doona

(Oh, and if you're still home could you send the EK stuff?)

(I'm not, last night got away from me)

9:42 AM

doona is waiting, and a grav flyer is prepared to bring you out to Carinhold. It is a flight taking several hours

9:43 AM

(if you wanna rp with her you can otherwise i can fast forward)

(We can just assume they shared notes and talked about scholarly things and generally got to know each other lol)

Regulus stretches his arms and yawns, throat a little sore from talking so much more than he's used to. My psionics aren't the only thing I need to work on... He closes his eyes and leans back, "How much longer is the flight? I might catch a quick rest if there's time."

"There's some time, but not much" Almost as soon as you close your eyes, the gentle touch of rubber on tarmac wakes you up, as the small plane lands in Carinhold.

2:18 PM

Moved into a hangar, a staff car begins making its way over to meet you

Regulus kneads his back, aching from the flight. He gets out and waits for the car with Doona. "Are we meeting with an ambassador, or perhaps an MES specialist of sorts?"

"This might be an ambassador or the person we need to examine themselves, they weren't clear about the arrangements from here on out" Doona says

"And they didn't specify if this person was psychic or perhaps one of these psychic-adjacent powers? I'm not sure we have enough information about the latter yet to help." Regulus extends his metapsionic senses to car to see if he gets any sort of sense of what's coming.

2:36 PM

"I didn't think the Taros capable of MES, but I suppose change comes for us all eventually."

"MES comes from exposure to spike space, as more and more of them enter naval service, it might happen." Doona says. Reaching toward the car, you feel bioscopic energies coming out of it

2:43 PM

The dark staff car pulls up outside the hangar, and a young Taros, in a naval midshipman's uniform, and two special project group commandos get out

"It seems like it has." Regulus turns to the Taros and gives them a small bow, "Greetings, I am Regulus Fate of the Psionic Academy and this is my colleague, Dr. Doona Ahn. How might we be of service?"

“This one thinks he’s got something to show you. Had to pull him off the crew of the Finalis when they got back from their salvage mission.

5:04 PM

“He’s been exposed to metaspace twice now”

Regulus nods expectantly, "Dr. Ahn, I'm not sure how many students you have shielded, but do you have room for one more?" He looks at the young Taros, "I believe the Taros have their first psychic. Let's get you shielded then you can show what you can do. What's your name son?"

“Graves. Sir” he says, feeling and looking very small compared to the special forces operators

"Well Graves, tell us what's been happening to you." Regulus gestures and a pad of paper and a pen float out of his pack. He stares intently at Graves.

(Has Doona shielded him? Reg can't use Psychic Tutelage till metapsion-3)

(she has)

"I've been able to heal very fast, not just myself, but others as well. Our chief engineer lost his finger to machinery the other day, and i put it back on"

"Just as I thought..." Regulus brings out a knife and draws it across his arm, "Show me. Don't worry, with Dr. Ahn here you're perfectly safe."

he places a hand over the cut, the life of military service giving him no second thoughts about the blood

7:17 PM

bioscopic energy seals it closed

"You're in luck, Dr. Ahn here is herself a very powerful biopsion. You'll be in good hands for your training." Regulus looks to the special operations, "He should come back with us, he won't be safe on his own without training. However, he is just the first. You should expect more of your kind to develop other extraordinary powers. We should look into opening an office here or in one of the other Taros settlements."

(Also, if you're home send the EK stuff pretty please

)

(will do, we had to get the rules stuff sorted in mod chat)

7:58 PM

(this has been going on since like 4, but i tihnk its good now)

(You're good! We both forgot last night, just wanted to make sure we didn't again haha)

EK.txt

4.68 KB

(Thanks!)

(I still have Silvano's sheet in archive, if something looks weird I can double check everything)

(Cool, I'll let you know. Probably going to level up telekinesis a bit first)

“It’s been floated before but without the clients or students, it looked like a funding deathtrap. I think the best thing to do is bring him back with us”

"Of course, I understand. I do think it could be worth looking into long-term as more students are found." Regulus reaches out to shake Graves' hand, "Welcome to the Psionic Academy Graves. It'll be hard work, but at the end you'll be able to accomplish things others only dream of." He gives another bow to the two spec ops, " Keep us informed of any others who show any signs of psionics, it's incredibly dangerous for everyone is they are left untrained." Regulus takes Graves back to the plane.

The ride in is tense, Doona looking a bit strained as she releases her mental hold on him. "The first Taros psychic" she says. "History in the making. When we get to the academy, you're free to select a room and get comfortable. this is going to take some time"

"We'll need to observe him closely--make sure there aren't any differences in the interaction of MES with the Taros physiology. I suspect they're close enough to human that any differences should be negligible, but it's worth keeping an eye on." Regulus looks at Doona a bit concerned, "And I'll work on my metapsionics.. you shouldn't have to bear this burden by yourself."

“It’s been just me for so long. It would be nice to have another to bounce ideas off

9:51 PM

Upon returning to the academy you see crane in conversation with @Hoef McHoeffington

"Hello there, I'm Regulus Fate, a new administrator of sorts here. Can we help you?"

"Yes. I've come to this Academy, after the release of a energy signature on this planet."

Regulus strokes his tangled beard, "Hmm, psionic energy? Or something else?"

"Something else, although it does have the same essence marker as psionic energy."

"I'm not I follow, but we have seen some people with new strange abilities. I believe you called it the weave, correct Doona? I've only met one such fellow so far, Dax I believe. Perhaps this is the energy you're seeking."

Doona nods at the mention of what she’s been calling it. “That phrase came from acastus. That’s what those cultists call it”

"Then if it is as the people here call it then I shall refer to it as such, but yes it those strange new powers that you've seen which is the result of your planet discovering its Universal Ley Line, as my people call it."

"And do you possess these abilities as well? We would love to have your knowledge to better be able to aid those who have come to us. We may need to consider expanding the scope of the academy to incorporate all these changes."

"I do." He destraps his backpack and digs into it; pulling out a glowing blue (there are 3 inch wide lines trailing across the bind of the book) leather-bound book and a intricately designed dataslab. (edited)

10:36 PM

"That is why i am here, to assist with the newly acquainted with the Weave." (edited)

"Fascinating. And these.. these ley lines? They're common where you're from? I'm not sure how many people here have manifested these abilities, but your aid would be invaluable. Doona, we may need to expand our facilities to accommodate new students--and a new teacher as well it seems."

10:48 PM

"And please Doona, let me know if I overstep my role, I understand I am still new here. But all of these new possibilities make me very eager to begin."

"They are as common as there are terrestrial planets, Mr. Fate. Every world that harbors intelligent life, like Piggen or the Taros, have the potential to access these abilities.. However some individuals are especially gifted at these feats, even at birth. My homeworld is dictated on the mystic abilities of its rulers and ruled." (edited)

11:03 PM

"I, for example, am able to discern who is a User and who is a Psychic."

11:06 PM

"I am also able to perceive the energy of metadimensional anomalies and objects. And with the right amount of focus, I am able to uncover a small snippet of information that is inscribed into the objects form." (edited)

"It seems like some of your powers are not too dissimilar to my own metapsionic abilities. I am surprised we haven't encountered them earlier if they're so common, Mr... ah, I believe I never caught your name?

"Yan Xi, Mr. Fate. If for the ease of conversation, you may refer to me as Mr. X." (Boom)

"As you will Mr. X. And now I'm afraid there's a council meeting I should attend to. I greatly look forward to learning more about ley lines and their associated powers. Doona, perhaps you can show him around and discuss how he might aid us in our endeavors. It's been a pleasure Mr. X, until next time." Regulus bows deeply and rushes out.

"May the flows of the lines guide you Mr. Fate."

(Reg needs to get his doctorate, then Mr. X and Dr. Fate will be unstoppable)

(Oh my Gods. A new meme has been born this day)

1

(Neko, did recruiting Graves count for the academy endeavour for finding new psychics? It doesn't specify how many need to be recruited to count)

(hey just wanted to let you know that if you did want in on the maze, even if you're not in combat yet, that doesn't necessarily mean you dont have a shot. making alliences and smart moves could be the way to win, for all we know. Plus its out of in game time, and there's no entry charge, so there's no loss if you dont get the grand prize. could win a bit of money even if youre not last standing)

(I'll think about it lol, thanks)

(hope to see you there, if not, totally get it.

)

Regulus returns home from the council meeting both completely drained and utterly invigorated, "What a truly interesting day. Why, I feel ten years younger." He stretches and gets a cramp in his side, "oof, at least mentally younger. I should have done this ages ago..." he stares off sharing a moment of regret before shaming it off, "well lots to do and little time in which to do it!" He climbs in bed and immediately falls into a deep and dreamless sleep.

(it does, I'll mark it completed tonight)

(Do I get xp for it too?)

(3xp, 5000 credits)

Regulus wakes early, well rested but sore from the previous day's activities. Grimacing at his haggard appearance in the mirror, he takes a quick shower and attempts to tame his tangled hair and beard. "Might be do for a trim... no time for that now though, I can't believe those officials almost sent out exclusively soldiers for a diplomatic mission," he shakes his head condescendingly, "let's hope this splinter group is more tolerant of psychics than the remnants though, or we may need that extra muscle." Looking ever so slightly less disheveled, Regulus heads out towards the academy.

Returning to the Academy, Crane and Doona are in a conference room together. You can't hear what they're saying but the conversation looks intense to say the least

Regulus knocks and enters, "Am I interrupting?"

The mood in the room fizzles out "Not at all, what can we help with?"

"Oh, I was just wondering if there was anything you all needed from me before I go. I volunteered for a diplomatic mission to the remnant splinter group. I'm hoping to build positive relations with them as many may still harbor reservations concerning psionics after separating from the remnants. Who knows, they may have some young talent among them. I'm not sure when we are departing, but if there's anything I can help with beforehand, let me know."

(the council meeting is still going on, I think people are waiting to hear news from the other players, and digest the big news report that came out before we separate into parties)

(Ok, sounds good)

9:09 AM

"If there's nothing I can help with here, I was thinking about making a trip to the psionic forge. I have yet to see it in person and I have some ideas both for protection of our members and potential commercial use."

(Is this roughly the same time as Yan is waking up? It's going to be a bit confusing sometimes with us both being at the academy so often lol)

(yeah, I was going to have him interact with the new taros student but if youve got something planned we can dive into that)

(Nothing specific planned with Graves, Regulus is mostly just wanting to be generally helpful/prove himself. If they don't have anything for him, he'll probably head to Rebirth to check out the forge)

A flight is scheduled for Regulus to head south. House Draconis, masters of the forge, have deployed in force to the southern part of the landmass, chasing rumors of some secreted technology here

12:31 PM

They have, however, left a token force behind, who can give you a tour of the complex

Regulus tours the facility, taking notes the whole time and bombarding his guides with questions, "So how exactly does the forge work? What kind of techniques can we imbue and what materials are required? How often can one use the imbued techniques and how do we recharge them? Can only psychics use them, or can anyone? How does it all interact with magic? How long does it take to create the items?" Regulus tries and fails to not be overwhelming and a bit obnoxious.

(i'll list these out)

(Yeah I know it's a lot hah)

The specific workings are House Draconis knowledge, that they decline sharing. Any technique known to the user can be imbued in an object. You can create one per day, using ALL effort available to you for the week. It taxes the user heavily to channel that kind of power. only psychics can activate and use the forge. it does not interact with magic. This forge only uses MES

(What are the limitations on the object after it's created? Uses per day? Or does the user expend their own effort to use?)

(it depends on what you're making, there are too many variances to list we would be here all day)

(That's fair, we can get to it case-by-case then) "Thank you for your help and for answering my questions. I will return sometime when House Draconis is here." Regulus bows and heads back to the academy.

It’s a days ride by rail back to the academy. When you return, the taros psychic has made himself comfortable

"Ah, young master Graves, I trust you are comfortable? I'm afraid I am about to leave on a diplomatic mission, is there anything I can do for you before I leave? I'm not sure how long it will take."

“I’ve been speaking with yan a little. I’ll just try to get on with himself and crane while you’re away”

"Is Doona not around? I figured she would be excited to have a new student. If things go smoothly I shouldn't be too long. That Yan is an interesting character, I think we all have much to learn from him."

Regulus returns to the academy in a hurry, looking for someone to report to.

Crane and doona are both up front speaking with graves. She is intensely training with him

Regulus rushes in and gives a hurried bow, "Crane, Dr. Ahn, I'm afraid I can't stay long, but I've urgent news to share. We've just received information on the whereabouts of the psychic prisoners the Remnants have taken. Apparently they're all being taken to the same place for some sort of project"

8:46 AM

"Do we have any resources here to aid with their extraction? Perhaps some personnel for backup?" Regulus thinks to himself, "Is @Hoef McHoeffington about? I'm not quite sure of his abilities, but if he can sense metadimensional energies we may be able to find the prisoners more quickly."

“Everyone has been recruited. Alex left with the myrmidons last week. Silvano has everyone else galactic north delaying the fleshshapers. Sadly we had to bury many of our own last month.

8:53 AM

(Yan can certainly volunteer)

"Of course, I understand. Well, if you could find Mr. X and let him know we will be on the Lady Valeria, and to join us if he's able." Regulus will head back to the ship to discuss strategy.

REgulus returns, a bit tired from the mission, but alive

Regulus leads the six new psychics into the academy, a tired grin on his face, "Prepare some beds and fetch some food, our mission was successful!"

(How exactly do personal goals work? I haven't written any)

(I'll PM you)

1

(I assume I would have talked to the psychics over the 2 day flight back, did they have any idea of the project the remnants spoke of?)

(I'm going to have one of them speak in the next unity meeting, for now they're all too medically challenged/traumatized to be of much use)

(Ok cool, makes sense)

(Gotta keep some story hooks for myself :P. If you;re looking for something to do, Cornelius and Robert could use a third)

(I want to get a couple cybernetics, would he need to rest a bit before a mission?)

(It's kind of loose, depending on what youre mounting you might only be down for a couple days)

(Since so many of the psychic stuff depends on your senses, I was thinking stuff to augment that like the panspectral optics. Is there anything that gives like telescopic vision or enhanced hearing?)

(pan spectral is probably the best match outside of homebrew)

1:22 PM

(nothing in polychrome really had a match to what youre trying to do)

(Yeah I figured, I'll just get the panspectral then)

(that will get you back into the mix pretty quickly, i dont see any continuity issues_

(Does he need to go somewhere to get them?)

(there are a couple clinics in the colony, if you want to RP it out we can, if you want to get on to other things thats fine too)

(Would the stuff on Alcibiades be a bit much for Reg right now? In character he's much more concerned about the remnants than recovering monster stuff)

(yeah, its one of the core worlds, pretty large attending fleet, and protected by some famed remnant divisions)

2:20 PM

(you dont have to do monster stuff either though)

(Yeah I figured, just checking. How would I go about researching psitech weaponry for the academy endeavor?)

(Rebirth, the psitech lab, has research points available but not enough to complete any projects right now. You'd have to do some field work, drain some databanks, bring back research samples, ect)

(Ok, I'll join the monster recovery for now and look into that more later

)

2:43 PM

Regulus heads out from the academy after a good night's rest, searching for a reputable cybernetics facility.

There is a Taros doctor who has entered colony service. his primary patients are Kincaid (her arm) and the other colony notables who are also cyber enhanced. Seeing the requisition come in, you are quickly scheduled an appointment

Regulus arrives at his appointment. "Greetings doctor," He reaches out to shake his hand, "Regulus Fate, it's a pleasure to finally meet you."

"Videra. You don't need to call me doctor" he smiles. "So I understand you're in the market for cyberware?"

"Yes, I am a psychic of the academy and nearly all of our abilities require sight with our targets. I have heard of a panspectral enhancement to allow sight in suboptimal conditions, is this something you could do?"

(Do you think I'd have time for monster recovery before the giant battle? I know it's large scale, but I'm fine with Reg dying if it's epic lol)

(I’ll do what I can to keep it moving)

8:17 PM

(We have two days irl before anything happens with that)

(Alright, sounds good. I'll jump over to that thread. 15,000 for the implant yeah? )

(Yes)

(I added in a couple personal goals by the way, I'll add more of I think of any. Trying not to go too far in the mission without the others lol)

(sounds good, ill check them when i get back to roll20)

Regulus returns to the academy to rest and meditate before Alcibiades.

Regulus exits the shuttle, stretching, contemplating the last mission. Deep in thought, his feet carry him automatically back towards the academy.

After returning to the academy, Regulus goes to check on the recovering psychics he rescued.

Dax is expected back soon with some medication that will speed their recovery along, Donna wasting no time putting the others to work. You also hear that Yan has pulled a significant sum from discretionary funding to complete the purchase and start refurbishment of a primary school in Vapormills, the first Taros branch of the academy.

1:52 PM

Graves himself is from Vapormills, and is eager to continue his studies closer to home

Regulus practices his somewhat newly formed biopsion abilities to aid them while they wait for the medication. "Dr. Ahn, do you know when Mr. X is returning? It seems he's gotten a lot accomplished while I was away." Regulus seems a bit distracted, the need for conversation more perfunctory than of true interest.

Reg, good to hear from you as always.

My expedition will be leaving soon, but you definitely have time to attend to personal matters. I am looking forward to working with you once again, I'm hoping that this mission will be bountiful for the both of us. I will be supplying all the vehicles we will need personally, but if there is anything else you think we would need to bring regarding the MES presence in the system, now is the time to procure it.

Regards,

Robert

(Its going to take 2 days for the grav explorer to build so you have that long to do whatever)

1

(So I guess we are all in the Dax channel now questioning that guy. Then we can come back here)

1

Hello Captain Fate, I'm sure your busy with academy business or something, but I hope this message finds you well. I was thinking of throwing a party to celebrate the recent successful mission against the Remnant. I thought that I would take the chance to invite you personally. I'll probably invite Robert, the Doctor, and Ricardo directly as well then send out a colony wide invitation on the day of. Good luck in your future endeavors, and I hope I can count on your attendance.

Regulus squats down to Crane's level. "I'm sorry I haven't been able to spend much time here since I've joined the academy. There's always something to do, someone who needs help. Is there anything I can help you with Crane? I would never want you to do anything that makes you uncomfortable, the spy can be dealt with in other ways. But we need to take care of each other. I want you to know you can ask anything of me and I'll be there for you if I can."

"I've got what I need" she says "I thought I wanted police work, but its too much. At least here, I can put my administration skills to use and ensure those who come under our roof have some kind of protection"

Regulus nods, "As a child I was always enthralled with the idea of war. Gaining glory through combat is many a boy's dream. Fueled of course by the incessant propaganda fed to us by military and state. That mostly went away with age, but I must admit a secret thrill when I was sent from here to fight the remnant. Turns out not only do I lack talent for violence, but it was too much for me. I'm haunted by all the deaths, the fear, the pain we cause. Despite logic telling me it was necessary and knowing many more would have died without our intervention..." Regulus straightens, a bit embarrassed at his unprofessional vulnerability. "Anyway, all I mean to say is I understand and... if you ever need someone to talk to, I'm here. I should check on Mr. Withers. We, too, are merely trying to protect us, if you change your mind let us know."

"You should talk to Zaricon" she says

8:01 AM

"He was one of the original students too. He's an army officer now. A precog."

"Hmm, yes, a precog could be very helpful here. Is he in central do you know?"

"No, he's out by prime, with the army build team. They're finally getting a base all to themselves"

"Thank you Miss Crane," Regulus bows, "I'll contact him. I'm going to check on our guest." Regulus heads back to the meditation cell, reaching out to Zaricon on the way.

Zaricon Rals? This is Regulus Fate of the academy. We've caught some suspicious characters hinting at something bad coming to the academy sometime soon. We could use your abilities to determine the timeline and nature of this threat.

There is a small check mark, showing it was received, but depending on where he is, a reply may be days in coming

Regulus makes the appropriate calls to set up a private security for the academy.

(okay, so faction action for this turn is buying security personnel?)

(Can we do that and still build sanctum stuff?)

(yeah, you just cant build or buy anything else this month)

(So we'd have to wait till the next month to start building? It's nearing the end of the month right?)

(the library is building, and corporate security is being hired this month. next month we can move on to the next thing)

(Ok, gotcha

sounds good)

Knowing it could be some time before any security team is gathered, Regulus heads outside to scout out the perimeter of the academy, keeping his eyes open for signs of the second intruder.

The streets around the academy are empty. One of the poles for the fence around the compound (think like, chain link, or a 3/4 heigh stockade, more to keep foot traffic from randomly wandering on property than stopping someone determined to get it) is loose, but its hard to tell if its on purpose, or just poor worksmanship

Regulus heads back inside to talk more to their captive, hungry for answers but hesitant to resort to force. If this becomes a regular issue, we may need to get better walls...

(Me and Seung are with the captive in the task force Phoenix channel)

(phoenix channel for the questioning, but yes, observation stands, perimeter security may be a good plan)

(Are psimech available currently?)

(No)

(Ok, what all needs to be researched first? Stuff in rebirth?)

(The jump coil fitting is underway there now. Idk if every single thing from the book will be available. A heavy psimech with to finger of God’s that teleports all over and has a vivication field and stuff is kinda broken)

3

(Haven't done research before, can I go to rebirth to research the still lady and better ways to counter her powers/minions?)

(Or is there a mission I can do for the force endeavour developing anti-psi weaponry since that should work on arcane too?)

(Either one of those works whichever you’d like to street with)

11:16 AM

(Start

(Let's do mission, then the research can be based on what he finds)

Youve seen that a few foes have had some type of anti-psi weaponry, especially a strange silver powder used by the Remnant, in air bursting shells. One psychic from Aslief, surviving the assault on their academy, was exposed to it.

11:45 AM

and can provide additional information

11:46 AM

(sophia milo is her name)

Regulus finds Doona in the academy. "Dr. Ahn, I have been thinking of ways we might defend ourselves from the Still Lady. I'm sure you've seen the Remnant use a peculiar silver material against our own psychics. It was used in the manacles and cells holding those we recently rescued, and I've heard of it being used in powder form as well. Mr. X noticed that it affected his powers as well, so I must assume this also affects the Still Lady and her followers. Is there anyone at the academy with more information on this material?"

"Sophia. She's.....oh where is she right now" Doona thinks. "She's accompanying Irene, that's right, on Aliah. I can get her via tightbeam though in the conference room"

"That would be much appreciated." Regulus follows Doona to the conference room. (Is the security in effect yet? Not sure how long that takes to get started)

(it will be next game month, which we are only a handful of game days out from, presumable, Central police will spend the few days doing it while Crane and Doona screen/hire/equip people in the background)

1

"Alright Dr. Ahn, let's see if Sophia is available."

The screen crackles for a few moments before a grainy image comes into focus. "Milo here!" the woman says into the screen, seeing it is the academy calling

"Miss Milo, this is Regulus Fate. I don't think we've had the pleasure to meet yet but I am working at the academy with Dr. Ahn here. We've had a disturbing encounter with a follower of the Still Lady, he indicated an attack of some sort is imminent. Dr. Ahn mentioned you had experience with the strange silver substance the Remnant uses to nullify our abilities? I was thinking how we might use that ourself against the Still Lady and would love your input."

Her eyes look a bit distant, recounting painful memories. "Well, the Remnant, when they stormed the city, fired artillery shells loaded with it over the city. They air-bursted. and the dust rained down from everywhere. \

1:25 PM

"It was like having the flu. My powers didn';t work, I felt sick. I was less than myself"

"That sounds terrible.. I'm reticent to use such a force, but we must use every advantage available. We would need a much more localized delivery system, we don't want to affect our own psychics. Perhaps ammunition for smaller arms made from the material. Do you know where we might find some to study and experiment with?"

"They were mining it on Terezinho, but the facility underwent orbital bombardment"

"Hmm... it may be worth a trip to the facility ruins. It's a safer option than trying to steal some from the Remnant." (Do we have the manacles I was wearing on Shariar?)

(I was figuring you kept them)

(Yeah, I meant to, I just never specifically said so) "I'll send the manacles we have to Mr. Rigers, I'm sure his engineers can come up with something useful. I will go to Terezinho for more samples, the manacles alone will not give us much material to work with. Hopefully I can find some research or information on it as well, though I'm not optimistic that anything survived the bombardment."

"Thank you for the information, miss Milo. If you think of anything else, let Dr. Ahn or me know." Regulus goes to get ready for Terezinho. (edited)

(Can I still roll for research for this last month?)

(yes)

(Is there a shuttle I could take back after this so I can join the Acastus mission? Or just the one we took? Don't know how long their diplomatic stuff will take)

(How much of the material did we end up getting? 4 small vials, 3 large, 3 manacles, 3 shells?)

(4 small vials, 3 large, 3 manacles, 3 shells)

(What do I roll for research?)

(Decide what lab it’s in. Choose a difficulty and then it’s know int or know magic int)

(Routine research, Rebirth)

10:21 PM

(Success 11v9)

(Rp equal to character level for this month donated to rebirth)

(6 rp

)

Captain, I'm pretty sure you're off planet right now I don't know since things have been locked down a bit.  I wanted to make sure you got some credits from turning in the samples from Terazinho. I'll talk to you when you get back.  I think Fateium caught on, now I just got to get the terms Fate binders, and Fate fire rounds, and shells into use and think of something for the armor. I hope your mission goes well.

(You're dead)

(Mission went great. He ascended into force enlightenment.)

(Reg bot, back in action)

(I figured we'd pick up with Doona getting back)

There is a commotion at the academy front gates as regulus is monitoring the front desk. The academy has been busy lately with people in fresh off the street. Doona ahn is being carried in by dr Siegfried, very thin and very weak, but alive

Regulus stands quickly, almost knocking the desk over in his haste. He rushes over to them, "My dearest Dr. Ahn, you've no idea the relief I felt when I received word of your rescue. Here, let's get you to your room. so you may lie down. Thank you Dr. Siegfried, is there anything I can do to help?"

"Her injuries, the physical ones at any rate, have healed. She needs intravenous nutrition, and she needs rest. When she wakes up, shes probably going to need someone to talk to, too"

"Of course. I'll make sure she has everything she needs." It's a shame Crane can't be here as well, she's better at this sort of thing. "Thank you again doctor, I shall let you know if we need you."

“She’s doing good work for others that need her. You should try to get some of those layabouts upstairs into the mix though. They’ve been moping for far too long”

"Yes, perhaps some work would liven them up, it's been many months since we rescued them. I've been thinking I need to get out more myself but then with Crane and Dr. Ahn gone and a surprising influx of new psychics to train I haven't had the time. Perhaps some of them could be of use in Vapormills, Yan was in the process of setting up some contracts before Xu Ganara took over. Could you use any help at the hospital? I believe one or two of them have some biopsion talent."

"Another hand would be helpful, not to speak too highly of myself but someone else who can do the kind of tissue repair I can will free me up to do some actual hospital administration I've been unable to get at"

"There's no one quite at your level of course, but I believe Skein Odinson is skilled enough for what you need. Go ahead and take him when you leave, though I may need to borrow him for the contracts as he's also the strongest precog we currently have."

1:39 PM

(Lvl 3 in both precog/biopsi)

"I'll fetch him. Put him to use finally"

"Good. Thank you again for bringing Dr. Ahn home, she's been missed by all. Let me know if there's anything else we can do for you." Regulus grabs a chair and sits next to Doona, lying on her bed. He opens his book and reads until she regains consciousness.

The pages turn, and turn, and turn, and when night finally begins its moonrise, doona's pale brown eyes shoot open, and she breathes in sharply, her forehead bathed in a cold sweat

"Back when I used to sleep, what helped me most following a nightmare was a bracing cup of chamomile with a hearty splash of something stronger." The aforementioned drink floats over to Doona, a flash of thermokinesis instantly reheating it after lying cool for some time. "Welcome back, Dr. Ahn. The nightmare is over."

She takes the cup and sips from it, tension ebbing from her shoulders as she takes the first sip “Oh Headmaster. I thought I was never coming back. I thought that cell was going to be the last thing I ever saw. Or smelled.”

"I wanted to come after you as soon as you were reported missing but the sunblades insisted they would handle it and it seems they did. I think you'll need to stay here at the academy for some time to recover, it's been busy here in your absence. We've multiple new students and Crane left with one of the tidecallers. Your skills were missed almost as much as your calming presence."

“Next time I go away and things change I hope it’s finally for a vacation. Irene must be worried sick. Has she been notified that I’m back?”

"Of course, word was sent. I'm sure she'll be by to see you as soon as time permits. Is there anything I can get you for now? Dr. Siegfried mostly recommended rest and nutrition. Can I get you something to eat?"

“Just another bag” she tugs gently on the IV line. “I don’t think I could keep anything down right now. “

Regulus replaces the IV bag and turns off the light, "Get some rest doctor. Let me know if you need anything," He taps the side of his head, giving permission to contact him telepathically if she needs before leaving the room to let her sleep. He heads to his office for some quiet meditation since he no longer sleeps. Doona, Crane, Xu, everyone's been out there helping people while I play the academic. Of course what I do matters and helps people, but it's hard to gain perspective when we're faced with such monumental threats. There's too much to do for too few people and too little time. My students have trained enough, our refugees have rested enough. It's time for the academy to rejoin the world in force. Too restless for meditation he decides to catch up on recent exploration reports and galactic news.

(So we have the news. We have the faction endeavors. Roberts report would have been talked about during the meeting. If you’re stuck I’ve got a couple things )

(I'm gonna head to Canache I think)

(Submitted Reg's ship to Shriven built at some point during his hiatus pending acceptance)

4:42 PM

Regulus/Grupp 7/27/2019 4:42 PM

After spending the night deep in thought about what his next step should be he goes back to check on Doona.

Doona is awake and this time changing her own iv bag. “Think in a couple days I’ll get some solid food down. I might take a walk around campus today if you’re okay with that. Try to rebuild my strength”

"I think that's an excellent idea if you're up to it. Dr. Siegfried suggested putting our refugees from Shariar to work, so make them help you if you need anything. I was thinking of taking a short trip off planet if you think you'd be alright. I can have Grupp stay here with you, I think he'll be more enjoyable company than myself regardless. Nothing too dangerous of course, I suspect there'll be enough of that soon. Do you think you'll be alright without me?"

"I think so Headmaster. The work needs to continue, even if I'm not up for it right now. I'll get the new help to work, and see what we can do to develop them into the skilled help we, and others, need"

"I was thinking about ways to combat the fleshshapers and stumbled upon an old report of Mr. Tanzer's. I believe it was rather forgotten amidst his later revelations concerning the fleshshapers. There seems to be an old mech of unknown origin there. Xu Ganara claims it requires a large source of metadimensional energy to awaken it." Regulus points to his glowing core, "I happen to have a seemingly infinite source of energy right here, perhaps with my newly developed electrokinesis skills I can redirect power directly into the strange statues. It's not a fully developed theory I must admit, but if it doesn't work perhaps I may think of something else once I see it."

"Recovering a relic from a fallen psionics worshiping civilization. It would be a boon to the academy no matter what" she admits "Who knows, you might even find some devotees"

"I've no interest in being worshipped of course. As long as no one is trying to kill me I'll be satisfied. I should bring one of the younger ones along with me, they could use the experience."

"Who?, I will send them a pulse, and let them know you are expecting them"

"How about Hinkler Batch? Another electrokinetic metapsi could be helpful. Have them meet me on the Pedagogue this afternoon."

"I'll let him know. Good luck out there Headmaster" she says, coming to hug your robotic body. You sense she is still weak, but slowly improving.

He arrives at the ship a few hours later, as afternoon begins to stretch on. He brings a beaten rolling leather suitcase with him, and has a number of type A cells on his belt, likewise worn and burned from previous action. He is in better health than last time most of the Academy has interacted with him, the tall man capped off nicely by a beaten and sun bleached wide brimmed hat

Regulus hugs her back awkwardly, not wanting to hurt her. "Be well Dr. Ahn." He gathers his things and heads to his ship. "Ah, Mr. Batch. Thank you for coming. I assume this will be your first time off planet since Shahriar. The planet we go to used to worship psychic, that should be a nice change of pace after your dealings with the remnant."

"Oh yeah?" he chuckles "They in the market for a new cult of personality? I should have packed more teeth whitening toothpaste"

"I wouldn't worry about that too much, reports show no current signs of people there aside from the strange statues. And if we are somehow able to awaken those potentially within the statues I doubt whiter teeth will be on the forefront of their minds. If you're ready then let us be on our way."

He deflates a bit at his attempt at levity falling flat, but rallies, and gathers his belongings before boarding the ship. (Hows it look inside?)

(I'll need to find some art for it. I imagine very functional and plain in its build but then Doona and Crane added in some comforts and decor for people who aren't robots lol. A good sized library/study and rooms for 12 people if needed but no designated recreational rooms)

(So a very stock 'just came out of the shipyard' feel, aside from a few small things here and there, is how it is sounding)

(Yeah, Reg's not the interior design type person lol) Regulus follows Hinkler into the ship.

The pedagogue is loaded for the trip already thanks to the diligent efforts of a number of deck porters. The two of you settle into cabins. A UNW trained flight crew is made available if you do not wish or do not have the skill to pilot the vessel yourself

(He doesn't yet) "Take us to Canache by way of Asleif and Galatea, captain."

(7 days of travel). The journey goes smoothly. Aslief is quiet now, a world in the final stages of being on the mend, as it’s industrial capacity nears its triumphant return. Galeta is ever the same, the polities there fighting one another , the great game always in cycle with one gaining mastery and then being torn asunder by its digital rivals. The dabloonscape online game is a passtime for everyone in the six hours in system to get to the next jump point.

8:30 PM

Finally, a day later, the freak geology of Canache is below

"Set us down near the statues, but not too near. I wouldn't want stray metadimensional energy from whatever happens to damage the ship somehow."

(Is fleshshaper valid to learn? I know Thorn was working on it)

To: Regulus Fate

Dr. Fate, this is Joshua Collins. Me and Dr. Ganara will, in short order, be departing from Gudrun for Acastus and then Olar. Dr. Ganara believes one of his resident minds has a way to stop the "Entropy Zone", that if it fails, won't cause any further damage. I will keep you informed as we progress, though I'm sure Dr. Ganara will have a report of some sort for you following this excursion.

(They communicate somehow but if its an actual spoken language , nobody knows. Thorn never even told me she was working on it, I'd have said no right then) (edited)

(It might have been their written language? I dunno, I thought there was something there lol. Who knows with her)

(the only thing thats been seen was that weird building the egg was in on Elkano, but the writing was from the natives, not from the shapers. The information you do have about shaoers is from psionic flashbacks and visions)

(Gotcha. I'm probably making it up then haha, maybe it was the Halians I'm thinking of or something)

(The Wasimians had a written language, I think she was working on that)

11:20 AM

(She went there after Hope's second character died there spectacularly, and then you and Dax actually finished things iirc)

(And Billy was the one actually working on the translation)

"5 kilometers out should be a substantial safety net, the walk won't be long from there, especially not for either of you" the pilot says, and begins making landing preparation. "Everyone ready back there?"

11:21 AM

(yeah there were a lot ofhands on it

(Billy completed it I know, Thorn was doin something who knows what lol. Not important now though)

(Thorn didnt know what thorn was doing with it)

"Ready when you are, 5 km sounds perfect." Regulus gathers his notes and supplies for the short trek.

The ship sets down, crushing a clearing of small trees as its bulk sets into the loamy soil of Canache's freak zone. The trees here are snowcovered even though there is not a single flake on the ground, nor is it even cold. "this is really going to take some getting used to" Batch says, moving to one of the trees and rubbing some of the powdered snow between his fingers

Regulus takes in the bizzare surroundings, "It's really quite interesting. The isolated temperate zones and inconsistencies in geological and flora structures suggest significant metadimensional interference in this planet's energy signature. I am most curious about what this planet was like before the metadimensional event that caused this and the strange statues."

"I wonder if its all native, and just jumbled up, or if some of this stuff grew after in these weird zones" Batch says, drying his hands on his clothes. "Either way, as you said, hell of a metadimensional release"

Regulus looks at Batch, pleasantly surprised that he seemed to follow his academic musings, "An insightful observation Mr. Batch. Let us head on to these statues and perhaps more will be revealed."

He nods and seems to agree with you, falling into line and letting his walking stick feel out the trail for him. The cap is metal tipped though the point is dulled from a lifetime of use. A white feather is worked onto a leather cord and hangs from the top, the edges of said feather stained red with dust of other worlds

9:09 PM

Ahead, the imposing statue collection looms. The forest remains silent of even animal native life , no birds. No bugs. No larger beasts

Regulus nods towards the stick, "Did you travel often? Before the remnant of course."

"I tried to as much as I could. Even back then sometimes an off world ticket could be expensive. We actually had a jump gate recently installed right before this disaster, my only trip through it was the one I took out to the planet where I was eventually captured/ Business trip from hell

Regulus gives a forced chuckle, more an attempt at humanity than one at humor. "Jump gate technology may be a ways off but I look forward to its return. I traveled a decent amount in my youth, but I admit it was mostly to visit new libraries and schools and the like. If you and the others are wanting to get out and explore the worlds around us just let me know. We have to funds to commission an extra shuttle if needed."

"Theres a lot of fear in the academy" he says after a moment. "I think that's whats keeping a lot of the people where they are. Travel is what got most of us into the trouble we were in, either on Rawhani, from Remnant territory, and a few of us were even half ravening before our recovery. "

"Hmm... that's understandable of course. Though the remnant are defeated there are still those out there who hate or fear us. But at least none remain on that scale as far as we're aware. Really most polities we've met have been friendly or at least neutral, the main concern of everyone of course is the fleshshapers. I'm not expecting all or even any of you to fight, but the fleshshaper threat looms near and psychics can be a vital utility in such times. I'd like to see us prepared before they arrive."

"We owe the UNW a debt. It's been hard, those who went with Silvano came home, but they did it in a coffin, we've already lost so much. He won;t be back now either, most likely"

"I don't want you all on the front, you're more valuable for transportation, communication, information and the like. Not to mention all the lives saved by our biopsions even in times of peace. I did not rescue you to be owed a debt nor to throw your lives away against an enemy. But your assistance will be appreciated if you choose to help."

“You’ve given us a whole new opportunity at life. If we come back from this I’ll have to have a discussion with my fellow psychics. I know Foros was having a lot of fun with his job before Cyrus and his mob all vanished

"Yet another mystery to unravel there. Best to focus on one mystery at a time though, our staturs await." Regulus continues on to the statues.

The formation is unchanged since it was originally documented, the nine statues, the eight facing the center one, and the commemorative plaque marking this as the site where the worlds psychic defenders made their stand to defend the populace one that has gone missing, vanished into thin air

"Keep your eyes open Mr. Batch. I trust you're somewhat experienced at sensing metadimensional energy as a metapsi, this strange phenomenon should have enough for a child to sense." Regulus opens his metapsi senses as well as activating Energy Sensitivity. (the EK electric sensing)

2

you sense a powerful MES field here, something....almost alchecmical like, has transmuted the metal , rubber, tubes, and gears of the center statue, to stone. The other statues do not seem to have been transmuted, and feel like they have always been stone

"Hmm... transmutation. You feel that Batch? This truly was once the mech Xu Ganara and Mr. Tanzer saw in their vision." He places a hand on the stone, searching for signs of anything his electrokinesis could power.

Something inside feels like the core of a cold star, or like the almost extinguished embers of a dying fire. There is life there, barely, and it just be stoked back to life

"Ah, there it is. It doesn't feel quite like a normal battery though more like..." Regulus taps into the strange power energizing his robotic body and anchoring his soul to this realm. "Reach for the core Batch, pour your energy into it. You're more experienced with electricity than I but I think this requires a little something more as well." As Batch sends in electric energy Regulus tries to divert the flow of arcane energy from his own core into the statue using conduit. Hopefully this doesn't disrupt my own body to repower this other one. I've been known to foolishly risk myself for the sake of knowledge before.

You feel batch reaching in with you as best he can, and the electricity is like blowing on this dying fire. You feel brief flares that fade out again after he stops applying the metaspace pressure

8:51 PM

Your own MES infusion becomes the fuel, poured into the machine (effort for the day here for both for sure) Something inside begins to react and you sense the heart of this machine slowly rising in power on its own, without your continued intervention

Regulus backs up quickly once he feels the power restoring on its own, "Back away Mr. Batch, we got it started but I'm not sure what will happen next."

The earth seems to pulse with its own power for a moment before whatever metadimensional reaction you've started truly begins. Webs of light surround the central statue, connecting to one another like some sort of technicolor lattice, before something akin to a cocoon is formed around the central statue. Lightning of the same bright intense colorful light streaks across its surface, never extending outward or striking the ground

Regulus backs outside of the circle of statues, watching in awe at the display. (edited)

"We might be here for a bit while...whatever this is...does what it needs to do. I sense something awakening in there" Batch says, eyeing it suspiciously

"Agreed." Regulus inspects the other statues to see if they're undergoing any sort of transformation as well.

The other statues are not, and seem inert. The energy is not expanding to encompass them. A soft wind blows through the statue park, bringing with it the conflicting scents of an alpine mountaintop and a salty wind swept sea shore, all at once. The juxtaposition is strange and unsettling

Regulus sits to wait and meditate, assuming a lotus position and opening his senses to the building energy ahead of him.

The meditation lasts for the better part of a day in this land where the sun never sets, yet a moon and starfield also emerge for the night portion of the daylight hours. Batch buries himself in taking pictures of it, vowing to paint it someday when he returns to the academy and normal life. Transformative energy streaks the inside of the cocoon and your mechanical sensors open at the sudden halt, as the metadimensional pod begins to break open

Regulus stands and approaches the pod, beckoning Batch to join him. "Make sure you record this as well Batch. I have little use for paintings but accurate visual records are an important part of academic study."

The coccoon unfolds over the course of a few moments like an unfurling flower, the metaspace energy burning off and floating skyward before dissolving like ashes from a fire Standing before you, gleaming gold in the sunlight is a large walker, strong , and mighty, reminding you much of the mechs used by House Draconis, though this is clearly of a more refined and etheric manufacture

8:38 PM

(If youve got art in mind, go for it, i didnt want to stomp your toy)

(It was hard finding something different and esoteric enough but I think I found an interesting one lol)

9:37 PM

4

(Awesome!) it stands tall, lit from within by the same Animus energy that lights the core burning deep inside of you, too. A compartment in its belly opens and you see a chair with controls within

"Most impressive. A pity the material it was housed in dissolved, I would have liked a sample to study. Seems like a test drive is warranted, for academic purposes of course." Regulus climbs into the compartment, testing out the controls.

A helmet sits on a hook, above the seat, connected to a crown of cables and cranial coolant shunts, and the sensors, and hydraulics power up as it senses an occupant aboard

"I wonder how this will work for me, I don't technically have a physical brain anymore." He places the helmet on, reaching into the mech with his combined meta and EK senses.

Your senses rise to the fore, ascending, though the tangled layers of machine code and MES construction. The mysteries of quantum arrangement are laid bare before your gaze and suddenly you are both you, and not you, inhabiting the iron bones both of your animus body, and this new iron god. your fists flex with borrowed power, your senses, the terrain pressure pads on your feet, the air and temperature veins nestled into the neck, the MES currents you've always known, flowing through you with resurgent strength

1:31 PM

You are both Regulus Fate, headmaster of the UNW psychic academy, and Fate Reforged, the Godwalker of Canache.

(Finally got it built lol)

Regulus/Grupp 8/5/2019 5:08 PM

(Holy shit this looks mental)

(I'll post the list of fittings eventually, I haven't finished converting all of them. I assume it'll be a big research project to unlock godwalkers for everyone though)

5:17 PM

Regulus admires his new body, though he feels the other inert inside him. He looks down at Batch, a good 6m taller than him. "This is rather interesting. And I thought my old body took some getting used to. It seems instead of merely controlling the mech my essence has rather inhabited it. No offense to the young shaman, but the work of this is far superior to my previous body."

3

(I’m not sure I wanna do it for everyone yet. This is a beta. Who better to test it than co gm)

(Yeah I figured. I'm already thinking of ways to nerf myself lol

)

(Would this count for Reg's goal of obtaining a psimech? I know they're technically different lol so it's fine if it doesn't)

(It does, I think this fits better)

7:15 AM

"The work is superior, in every way..."he says breathlessly, dropping to his knees in reverence

(Sweet, leveled but banking all my SP so nothing changes lol) "Ahem. Erm. Probably best for us to head back to the ship then, we've left the crew waiting for quite some time." Cearly uncomfortable with Batch's reaction, Regulus takes a few careful steps towards the ship, testing out the mech's movement.

The movements will take some getting used to, due to the scale of the walker body, but you do not feel slowed down or constrained by the godwalker- it is more of understanding exactly how much space you take up, and how your range of motion has changed

Regulus begins heading back toward the ship, slowing his pace to match Batch's, "The metadimensional energy suffused throughout this body is very potent, I can only imagine what all it may be capable of. I'm looking forward to experimenting with it... It can be hard to be objective when looking at oneself, Mr. Batch. What do you sense from me?"

“A font of metadimensional energy. It feels like I’m standing outside during the hottest part of a summer day.

"For the first time I truly feel present in this world, not merely at anchor amidst a storm. Despite its strangeness I feel quite at home in this body. I wish to return here to discover more about what happened to the people here, but for now I need to learn the capabilities of this mech as well as study my apparent symbiotic relationship with it. I appreciate your aid Mr. Batch, and your chronicling of this event."

"I will endeavor to continue doing so" Batch says "Every time I feel we have answered a mystery, two more questions rise up to take their place" He has a rueful expression on his face

Regulus chuckles, "Such is the nature of our work. Simultaneously the bane and joy of scholarship." Regulus continues on back to the ship.

"It feels a lot like treading water. Furiously peddling the stationary bike of life to not make progress" he sighs. "I admire your upbeat attitude about...everything"

8:37 AM

"The academy lost its soul when we lost you" he says, fixated on you firmly for a long moment, before averting his gaze

"I'm not often referred to as upbeat. But when one seeks something infinite such as knowledge or wisdom, the only success to be had is to pass on what is learned and add to the collective in hopes of furthering others in their own endeavors. My own curiosity means nothing if it can't benefit future generations."

"Do you think we have a chance?" Batch says after a few long moments of silence

Regulus mirrors his silence for a moment as the Pedagogue comes into sight, "If you had asked me directly after the scream I would have answered differently. But yes, I believe there's always a chance. If humanity is good at one thing it's fighting tooth and nail to survive. Even when life is at its darkest, hope always finds its way into those rare bright souls who ignite those around them into greatness. We will fight for those who come after, that they may live in ignorance of our struggle. The fleshshapers will not be the last we defeat in the preservation of life and knowledge. But that ember of hope in my own soul tells me we shall have peace however brief. And that is always a thing to be treasured."

This seems to galvinze him, and after a short walk, you return to the ship, Regulus needing to be loaded through the primary cargo lift, rather than taking the crew ramp into the Pedagogue's gus

3:05 PM

*guts

3:05 PM

(6xp, 10,000 credits)

I'd prefer not to remain in the cargo bay for the duration of this and future travels. Perhaps my study of the rectifiers' abilities to manipulate their own bodies could help. Regulus considers for a moment before concentrating on his new body, controlling the metadimensional energy throughout to compress the mechanisms down to a more manageable size. He exits the cargo bay into the ship proper, head brushing the ceiling but able to traverse the living quarters of the ship. (Polymorphic Shaping Core says you can adjust size and shape down to "horse sized" so I'll let you say how big that is lol)

(You could even exit the bot in your regular reg body)

9:04 PM

(but when youre in it, your senses mesh with it)

(Yeah, I figured since this can compress he'd rather hang out in it since it's way better lol)

(makes sense, A horse as far as off the ground- at least the ones ive seen, are not massively taller than people, so youd probably duck under bulkheads but youre not going to destroy the place)

(I was looking forward to the adventures of permanently giantkind Reg

)

(Yeah that's what I was thinking, like 7ft at the smallest or something. Reg not fitting inside his own academy would be a bummer lol)

(7ft i think is reasonable)

(I think just back to Gudrun for now. Planning on heading to Sumati next, may see if anyone wants to come along)

(Added some new goals for Reg a few days ago btw, forgot to mention)

(Alright, ill toss some xp up before i leave today)

The Pedagogue is making arrangements for flight when you make your way inside, what automated systems there are, are coming online, and the skeleton crew is hard at work doing final checks before taking off. "Are we heading home, back to the academy, headmaster?" one asks. She is shaking a bit in the knees, but doing her best to process your new form

"Yes, home. I'll be in my study if anyone needs me."

4:01 PM

Regulus retreats to his study to mediate and examine his new abilities.

(heading back to Gudrun?)

(Yep)

Regulus spends the journey in his new body, learning the finger points of its function, and design. As said, it is superior to the shaman's work, and it is outfitted with a number of fittings the UNW could never reproduce

You arrive on Gudrun several days later, and to your relief Doona is once again out of bed, now hard at work training Selgar in the mysteries of bioscopic healing. Training must have just begun, you remember this current lesson toward the beginning of the program

Regulus looks in on their lessons briefly, but doesn't want to interrupt and continues to his study to catch up on any new he missed while gone. The report of Fermia's demise on Sumati catches his eye and he decides to send a quick message to Shriven about it. @Rey (Shriven)

Mr. Emaje,
I saw the report concerning your island and the psychic who perished there. It's always a tragedy to lose a potential if reluctant student. The rectifying abilities of the natives there intrigued me, besides our mutual shaman friend I believe I am the most knowledgeable of rectifiers' abilities and deemed it appropriate that I lend you my aid in this. Let me know if this is agreeable to you.
Regulus Fate

That would be excellent, I was planning on putting up one Ad Astra stock to anyone who can pacify or make friendly contact to the island.
Shriven

Friendly contact seems unlikely given our previous interactions and their hostile disposition, but I will attempt to discern their motives in hope that pacification is unnecessary. Personal rewards are unnecessary, but I will accept what is given to put towards the academy.

Once Selgar is off to help at the hospital Regulus finds Doona before he heads off to Sumati.

Donna has returned to the Academy after dropping Selgar off at the hospital, to study under Siegfried for a short while. Her condition is improving rapidly though you see sometimes she still has a vacant look in her eye when not immediately engaged in some kind of work.

"It's good to see you in better spirits Dr. Ahn. I find helping others to be an effective form of therapy, as is routine. Selgar is lucky to have you as a teacher and I see Ronakeve stopped by again too. I feel better knowing we have you here while I'm gone. Speaking of which I have plans to leave again soon. Shriven has a problem that seems to be rather dangerous, but I think it should be within my realm of expertise." (edited)

(Oh and during his trip home can he have attuned to his ship too? Takes 7 days to fully sync which is how long the trip was)

(Works for me)

8:41 PM

"The island? I saw the reports from intelligence. Two missions there utterly failing to generate a lead."

8:41 PM

"I'm one to judge, having been captured myself" she sighs

"Do not be so hard on yourself, nearly everyone in this building has been captured at one point or another. There's no shame in failure as long as you learn from it. Next time you won't underestimate the brotherhood just as I won't be delving into the mind of a god if by chance I meet one. Failure will ever be a greater teacher than you or I could hope to be. As for the island, at least we can learn from their failures if they cannot. The natives are hostile mages which happens to be something I specialize in. I suppose you may have noticed my new body, it has some rather unique capabilities that should serve me well in this."

“Is this. Does this have anything to do with Robert and Haileys expedition?”

1

"Mmm yes it does. Here, it's easier to show you." Regulus leads her out to the landing bay next to the Pedagogue. He holds his arms out, turning slowly in place so she can see the process unfold. Gears and components shift and expand quickly as his form slowly grows back to its normal 24ft height. His belly opens with a hiss a compressed air and he gingerly reaches in, pulling out the inert shell of his previous body, its normally colorful core dark. "It was called the 'godwalker' by those who created it, though I'm still unclear on who they were and what happened to them."

"The shaman's work was....inspired, but crude. your new form is something to behold. Those powers that you have now, the growth, and shirking, and this merging? All from communing with this somehow? My metapsionic powers are pulling me in that direction but they're...confused"

"The nature of this body is arcane, as was the core the shaman found. My connection to it seems to be more akin to psionics however, almost a new discipline though perhaps one unique to my situation. I've had limited chance to study it yet myself thus far, the confines of a ship in spike are hardly ideal for experimenting. But some of the abilities such as the shifting of size and shape are innate to this body while others are my own. For example." A thread of EK energy flows from Regulus to his old body now lying on the ground. Then a fragment of his consciousness transfers as well and the body stands, waving to Doona though Regulus is clearly still in the godwalker. "I am able to manipulate machines remotely without fully inhabiting them, though of course my control is much more limited and requires more effort."

She takes a step back as the old reg body animates. “Could you do something like Inhabit a data pad? Or a glowbug? Or just vehicles?” You see her take her own pad out and begin making notes. She has been a prolific writer since her return though most of her energy has been spent on medical charts and status reports

Regulus smiles internally at her enthusiasm, "I imagine there needs to be a certain amount of complexity to the system to be able to sustain my full consciousness. I suppose I could inhabit a compad or something similar potentially, but I'm not sure there's much benefit when I can just access it remotely. I don't believe a glowbug has enough computing or processing power to inhabit. Vehicles certainly seem the most useful to me, though perhaps something smaller like a drone would have uses as well. I'm not sure my sanity would survive being stuck in something with no mobility or external control."

"I've been a prisoner" she says, "I can relate to how you feel about it. Well headmaster, if there is nothing further you need of me, I will return to my duties. You undoubtedly have much to do as we enter a new phase of galactic danger"

"Thank you doctor, I shall be off to Sumati then. I know the academy is in good hands while I'm gone."

Regulus begins preparing the Pedagogue for takeoff.

The journey there is peaceful, and youre given space as you expand your mind and dwell on your new powers. As you arrive in orbit over Sumati, you are informed Governor Shriven is currently in a meeting with one of the more stagnant and most resistant former countries on the world, and will be unavailable to meet for the day, possibly even beyond

"Take us down just out from the shore nearest to where contact was made. I'll go in alone from there. Preferably they won't see us, but I'm not exactly subtle in this form so I don't expect to remain undetected for long."

(Should've brought Dax out to storm the castle)

(Time for a retcon! Naw, Reg got this fam)

8:01 PM

(Polymorphic core gives aquatic movement but doesn't specify amphibious, so I'm just wanting to land on top of the water a little ways out and head in) (edited)

8:02 PM

(Though since he doesn't need to breathe really he's always amphibious

lol)

(i think the ship itself would have to have the fittings to go underwater, but i dont see a problem with floating)

8:15 PM

(in terms of your gift)

(I mean the mech not the ship. But standard mechs don't have an amphibious fitting and I think the intent in godbound is more on the water than under so let's go with that.)

9:00 PM

(With kinetic transversal I can already walk on water anyway lol)

(Mecha Jesus. Can confirm)

4

The Pedagogue flies down, hovering just over the water. Regulus jumps out landing heavily on the surface, water spraying into the air. I'll let you know if I need reinforcements. Stay back until I signal. Mechanical feet shift as anti-grav nodes form along them, too weak for true flight but they lift him a foot or two above the waves for greater mobility. Eying the shore some distance away, Reg begins to skate above the water towards it, gaining speed as arcane energy flows throughout his body. Electricity sparks around him as the natural static in the air further fuels his speed. He rockets towards the shore, eyes scanning for movement.

9:34 PM

(There's no kph listed since mechs aren't in engines of Babylon, but he's got 80m/round in combat [light mech: 60 plus 10 each from static thrusters and Polymorphic core] so I figure around 60kph top speeds makes sense)

1

(And staying "only" 7ft till I see someone)

The shore is heavily forested, consistent with the reports, the trees beginning after a narrow 10m section of rocky beach. The dark waves crest and crash against the shore in a dull roar . Sprays of mineral rich salt water geyser skyward as some of the waves break against barely submerged rocks. (notice/wis)

(6)

You see nothing on the beach as you approach, aside from a security camera in a tree- it is facing the extreme left side of its panning angle, and you are well out of its view. It does not seem to be moving to track anything, just fixed, and staring off over the sea

Regulus continues on towards where Fermia met her demise, being as stealthy as a 7th tall robot skating across the ground at high speeds can be.

(good luck :+1: )

(That was out over the ocean, diverting course?)

(Oh I thought she was in the forest)

5:23 PM

(He wants to head inland towards where she saw them first)

(she was badly mauled in the forest, managed to extract via chopper but it was shot down over the ocean)

(Oh right. Yeah, he's wanting to head towards where she tripped the alarm)

(No rush cause I'm working, just giving a lil bump)

You hit land without trouble, and arrive at the mountain pass, where Fermia was originally encountered. Time and likely some work by the cult here has removed traces of the hounds they rectified, and the rain has washed away the blood, but traces of the combat here remain, especially evidenced in the bullet pocked boulders

11:59 AM

she was not far from the beach when the alarm was tripped, and you see the sensor she did was not replaced. The stump where she sat to wait for her attackers is 100m away, and likewise riddled with solid shot and laser burns

Slowing down now that he's getting close, Regulus continues on more carefully wary for any more alarms.

As you take stock of the area you see three bony spines embedded into the tree trunk, whistling slightly as they cut the gentle breeze

(Do I pick up anything magical off them?)

(Yes, theyd show as rectified, if that makes sense. It's from the dogs)

(So with the Eyes of Argus fitting I can "tag" an enemy and be able to track them/know where they are. Since the bones are from the dog's body maybe I could get a ping on where it is or something? I dunno if it works that way, I'm thinking like how you track things in the Witcher or something lol)

(I'm game for that, I can picture what you mean)

8:19 PM

The particular dog that shot this must still be alive, you get a whiff of an arcane scent trail in the air, which seems to be pulling north, toward the castle like structure on this island. The wind howls through the trees, but nothing disturbs the magical scent flooding your machine enhanced senses

Wind's howling. Regulus follows the trail northward toward the castle. A place of power. Gotta be.

(perfection)

As he heads towards the castle Regulus keeps a sharp eye out for anything else magical or strange that might trigger his metapsi senses.

Approaching the castle through the forest you hear the distant sounds of dogs barking and occasionally loud laughter through the trees. Within 5km of the keep your metapsi senses begin to itch, drawing you to a dark grove of trees to the west

Regulus drops to all fours, his form shifting once again to a form somewhat feline, arms becoming legs for swiftness and stealth. He pads forward, close to the ground, setting out for the dark grove.

The grove is old growth. the trees feel ancient and are twice as thick around as you are, and taller than even your full height in your normal form. The branches and the upper reaches of the trees curl and gnarl around one another, binding in some kind of elaborate weave. In the middle of the grove, a carin made of piled rocks, bone, and at the top, a horned skull on an iron spike, sits in a place of reverence. Wreathes have been laid on it, and there is evidence of sacrifices being made here

Regulus looks around to check that no one is currently around before slowly approaching the cairn.

Your metapsi senses a large amount of rectifying energy here, within the carin, almost as it is evaporating into the air and spreading

Form becoming humanoid once more, Regulus reaches out with telekinesis to carefully dismantle the cairn, hoping to reveal what is within without touching the twisted magics.

(lets get a sneak/dex here, since the rocks might tumble and whatnot)

(4 lol)

The carin grumbles and shifts are rocks are pulled away too quickly, and as it falls apart the totem on top comes crashing down, you feel the rectifying energy beginning to fade. Shouts of alarm, carried on the wind from the castle direction, and the howling of hunting dogs drift through the air, a moment later, as some sort of mysterious sense - or maybe just the noise of the rockfall- seems to have alerted the islands residents

(Can I sense anything more specific about what the totem was doing?) Knowing he can move very quickly if he needs to run, Regulus turns towards the sounds and prepares to fight.

(Gonna prep one of my skills as an instant action, I'll let you know which in a bit)

(it was conducting its energy into the ground, but to what end its not certain)

1

As he waits for the enemy to appear Regulus uses Suspended Manifestation to store Slip Field as an instant action. (2 effort committed)

Three hunting dogs that you hear approaching from the north, long before you see, yip and bark, their human handlers undoubtedly not far behind. The trees bend and sway as they make their approach, all coming from the same direction. The heavily muscled mastiffs, now armored with makeshift scrap helmets and chest guards, growl, and show their fangs as they enter the clearing, heads low

(Initiative?)

(I wasnt sure what the slip space thing does so i wanted to allow you time, but yes, if we're jumping into shooting lets do it)

(I was just prepping it so I can use it as an instant action later instead of a main action. Similar to arcane cyst that Grupp has)

4:38 PM

(2 for initiative)

(3 for dogs) The dogs for the moment are just dogs, and come bounding at you, moving rapidly, and closing to within 30m of you, yipping and howling with prey sighted

(How many and they're all within 30m?)

8:32 PM

(Doesn't really matter actually)

Poor beasts... I'm sorry. Regulus skates forward, moving within 20m of all the dogs. A ring of energy erupts from him, blue-white light cascading out, igniting searing flames the same color on each beast it hits. (Evasion save for all, 16 damage on fail. Other shot was a nat 1)

(there are 3, and all within 30)

8:48 PM

(two fail, one pass)

(Don't have my notes up but I don't think it's half damage on pass, it just misses)

Two of the dogs are annihilated by the light, flayed down to the bone before those too blacken and turn to powder , mid leap toward you.

7:42 AM

The remaining, who was keeping himself low, dives toward you, jaws wide

7:42 AM

(rolling in a sec)

7:45 AM

The dog bounces from your metal shell, fangs unable to scratch the blessed alloys, and it tumbles away, continuing to growl

(No humans appearing yet I assume?)

(not just yet, only been about six seconds or so)

Another ring of light blasts out, the air shimmering with heat around it. (21 damage on fail. Other was 12/21 which I assume misses)

The final dog dissolves under the attention of the spell, and as it vanishes, crumbling to dust, you hear shouts in the trees, at the sudden noise. The hunters are not yet visible but you make out at least four voices, and can see the underbrush swaying as they force and shop their way through it

(Do I sense any other larger sources of energy or was this totem the only one?) I cannot stand idly by when these powers are used for such vile and cruel rituals. Expanding to his full 24ft height, Regulus rushes towards the voices at full speed.

(How far can you sense?)

(Generally similar to normal hearing/sight range. So further if it's more powerful, cause it's more "loud")

The castle itself is an enormous nexus of power, to your senses it is like standing next to the speakers at a concert. It is practically flooding out everything else. Your massive frame smashes on ahead, barreling through the dense forest toward the hunters, who realize they cannot even begin to scratch your armor in this form

(Are they going to try to attack or just run? Reg won't bother with them if they're running)

(You’re like five times their size now. These three guys are not messing with you and are trying to get out of the way)

(Figured just wanted to check) Regulus continues towards the castle, alert for any other external sources of power that might be feeding into it.

Alarms begin to play out, from the castle, as the battle-mech sized Regulus closes in on them, towering above the forest and its scraggly trees.

8:03 AM

On its four towers, you see tarps being thrown off of antique direct fire field guns, and the gunners, four on each (gunner, loader, assistant loader, and spotter) begin hauling the claw-foot ponderous cannons in your direction

(How far are they?)

(2km from you. They’ve got the range they’re basically towed artillery raised onto the roof. I’m pretty sure you’ve got the range too, though)

(My weapon range is 1km so will take about a minute to get into range for that, as long as I can see them they're in range of psychic stuff though. How hardy does the artillery look?)

Regulus takes in the four artillery guns, I suppose it is time to demonstrate a Godwalker and psychic's combined might. The mech begins to glow as power floods its systems. Though outwardly Regulus only appears to be running towards the castle, his mind races at inhuman speeds fueled by the godwalker. Looking at all four towers at once, he unleashes his telekinetic techniques at each one. (Slip field as an on-turn action on the one closest to him [2 effort already spent, each person there makes an evasion save or falls prone and can't stand up]; next one Tangible Force Construct as an on turn action, an opaque dome surrounding the cannon [AC15, 20 HP]; last two Telekinetic Ram on the towers themselves just under the cannons, goes off next round [creates a 5m hole in pretty much anything] Total cost: 3 effort, 1 godwalker effort)

8:05 PM

(5 effort spent all together)

(2 pass, 2 fail on the slip field) Two of the gunners manage to keep their feet, the other two fall, trying to regain their balance and cannot. A dome of enegy surrounds the tower across from them, as the startled gunners begin changing the angle of the gun to try to blast through it. (So 2 guns get to fire, and then ram goes off?)

(Yep! Considered thermokinesis but that's less sure to take them out lol)

The gun fires as the dome closes in arround it, the shockwave of the high powered shell blowing backwards, trapped by the telekinetic construct. The crew is pulped by the explosion and resulting shockwave before the dome and the tower begin to break apart. The two remaining guns fire, one of the shells going wide, the other striking home (18/31. I used the anti tank missile from starvation cheap, because technically artillery shells just annihilate what they hit and one-shotting is kind of a weird sucky way to do anything)

(Thanks for not one-shotting me

) Regulus holds his arms up, yelling with the effort as the shell is halted mid-air in front of him then tossed to the side harmlessly. (Impact Sump, 1 effort. Can only use once a day)

9:34 PM

Regulus speeds forward, letting loose the built-up kinetic energy at the last two towers. (Just double moving as his action and TK Ram hits right after)

The ram hits the ill maintained stonework with the force of a giant's fist, crumbling masonry into powder, smashing timbers inside, and ruining support joists meant to withstand cannonfire and slung shot. There is a tremendous cloud of dust, obscuring the area from sight as the castle begins to crumble, ammunition inside compressed by the rockfall also cooking off in a spectacular fireball that ensures there will be no survivors of those left inside.

(Freakin' rekt 'em)

(Rectifying energy still there?) I wish it hadn't come to this... Rectifiers are meant to heal and fix, not twist and corrupt. Regulus continues forward to inspect the burning ruins of the castle.

(Yeah. It is)

Approaching the castle, Regulus searches for the source of the huge power flooding his senses.

The source of the power seems to be under the rubble, but not immediately under the rubble, something must be buried here

THe castle shifts and the fire continues to burn, heat growing more intense as flammable materials inside begin to cook off and roast. There are undoubtedly many bodies inside the keep, also contributing.

Before attempting anything with the burning rubble Regulus checks the vicinity around the castle, looking for any caves or holes that might lead to whatever is beneath.

You see evidence of a cave once, on the north side of the hill this castle was built upon. Dirt is freshly fallen there, and rocks have been piled into position, and cemented in place. The work looks recent, done within the past month, if not sooner

Using a combination of telekinesis and the mech's brute strength, Regulus breaks up the cement and lifts away the rocks and dirt.

A cave mouth , one small enough to require you to shrink back down to the normal size, leads underground. You sense a rancid wind coming from within, like you’ve opened some kind of charnel pit

Not much room to maneuver down there, I'll need to look into bonding with a drone sometime soon. Regulus compresses his form to fit in the tunnel before heading underground.

The tunnel is dim, and floating banks of a thin mist, that smells utterly unpleasant, rolls out, as though this cavern is exhaling a long rotted breath. It turns right, and heads down into the crust. A flickering light dances on the tunnel walls from ahead, casting everything in an inconstant harsh yellow glow.

Regulus adjusts the mech's olfactory sensors as the smell increases, dulling their sensitivity. Situations like these make me appreciate my inability to vomit... whatever is down here is truly foul. He cautiously continues forward towards the light.

You see flickering images, of three mages, surrounding a figure who has been splayed out in an X shape between two posts. One pulls a kriss from his robe, and cuts the person from pelvis to throat, their gender impossible to be seen in the heavy combat harness they are wearing. Blood seems to smoke from the wound, in a vapor, rather than flow, adding to the boiling clouds rolling out of this underearth pit. The glowbug flickers three more times as they seem to jump and blink between light flashes, moving deeper into the tunnel. The corpse, choking on its own offal, begins to pull itself free

(Initiative? Or surprise round if they haven't noticed me yet?)

(The wizards are mid blinking away down the tunnel away from you but the thing they just summoned is coming toward you. Initiative is correct)

(5)

(7) The Vigilant moves forward, ending 20m from you, and manifests a spear made of shadow, throwing it, and the shallow arc falls flat, missing you. It begins to smoke, and fade away, re-forming in the creature's hand

Lines of glowing alien script appear in front of Regulus as if written on an invisible tome suspended before him. The the text flashes as another halo of energy is released and the script coalesces into a beam firing at the living corpse. (16/21 for the beam; 14 damage for the halo)

9:16 PM

(Do I sense any pacter-like magic too or just rectifier?)

(pacter now, and additionally still rectifier)

7:06 AM

Your word is wrath and pain, flying outward toward the advancing Vigilant, knocking it back and causing pieces of it to discorporate

7:07 AM

It tries to pull itself together, the black, inky darkness flowing over the ruined corpse of the human it had been, dragging its spilling guts along like ropes of shadow. It advances slowly, inexorably, spear ready for another cast (10m away)

7:08 AM

(19/9)

Not wanting to get too close to the creature Regulus sends another flurry of energy at the creature before backing away 20m. (27/21; 11 for halo)

The creature screams as the etheric energy pulls at it, spear fading along with its wrist, its arm, and then its torso, bubbling away, and leaving the pathetic corpse behind

2:29 PM

(just blew him away, jesus )

(We can tone down the damage for the weapons if you want lol, I tried to keep them pretty in line with other mech/psimech stuff) These mages are harnessing dark powers similar to the Still Lady. These foul magics shan't be allowed to corrupt the reputation of psychics and mages alike. Regulus shakes his head before continuing after the three mages.

(no no its in line, just wow)

The tunnel continues to flicker and rumble as the unearthly energies play out through it, the mages managing to stay ahead in their flight, thought it is a close run thing through the twisting tunnels and caverns. It is almost as if they glide, rather than run. Ahead, the tunnel mouth seems to open up into some sort of reflecting pool chamber that is brightly lit on its own, and the mages begin coming to a halt on its opposite side (pool in the middle, and basically stone cave still around the outside, so you can skirt the walls and go around, just not through)

(Is the pool the source of the huge energy he's been feeling?) Regulus steps into the chamber, watching the mages carefully. "So much pain. And death. Life is this universe's most precious treasure. A currency that should only ever be spent for the lives of others, never for power or personal gain. You owe life a great debt for those you have taken. Do you have anything to say in your defense before that debt is collected?"

(Even your threats are academic)

(Yeah it is)

(Can he see anything in the pool or feel anything more specific about the power yet?)

(Not just yet. You can feel them drawing from it but aside from that it’ll take some time for you to attune) “Your agents have been meddling in private observances they have no right to see. Our rites and rituals are sacred and we only practice on the willing. You need not have quarrel with us, venerable one”

"If you had chosen to speak with those who came before instead of open hostility perhaps it needn't have come to this. To what cause do your members so selflessly give their life?"

12:29 PM

(Do they seem to be getting stronger as they draw from it or more sustaining their powers?)

“The chance to serve a cause greater than themselves. Your precious companions chose to hide and resort to violence rather than speak with us. We have a right to defend our homes. Admittedly the second guest was treated a bit more harshly”

7:08 PM

(First meeting was a fuel air bomb with meticulously added extra shrapnel being blown up on a hunting team)

(Fun lol. I know two PCs died at some point but don't remember the first) Regulus approaches the pool and looks in, "Of what great cause do you speak? I've seen the same magics you use wielded by dark gods. I admit I'm curious if a similar being is in play here."

(Zaarina and fermia went first and almost died. Zaarina died her next mission unrelated to this. Fermia went back and died

10:01 PM

“We are The Purge. We are the answer to the galaxys problems. We have the solution to stop them”

(Oh right, gotcha) "The galaxy's problems outnumber the stars. The only possible solution to stop all of them is to remove anything capable of having a problem. Is this your aim? If so I think you'll find life to be rather resilient."

“A scholar and a visionary yourself you must be, for you have already hit the heart of our purpose. We are the life reviling purge. Our methods by many would be considered extreme, but a peaceful Galaxy is a spotless and sterile one”

"And what method do you plan on using for this purge? The little I've seen of your island makes me think you're rather ill equipped to whipe out all life." He gestures towards the pool in front of him, "I assume this has something to do with it."

“This nexus is the key to the future. It’s power will allow us to craft what we need to continue our journey. We would see you as an ally, fellow conjurer, we have no wish to see you destroyed”

"Ah, but you do. I may not be precisely alive in the traditional sense, but I carry with me an ocean of problems just like those you wish to eliminate. But you see, problems aren't innately bad. They're how we grow. As individuals and as a whole, problems are what drive us forward into the unknown, they force us to learn and adapt. You know what would happen if you erased all life? It would simply restart. A random mixture of chemicals thrown together by chance in just the right environment. Time is all it takes. And the universe has nothing but time. So you see your quest is not only foolish, but futile. Problems exist to be solved, not evaded through fanatical actions based on illogical theories. If you cannot be persuaded otherwise then I believe this is a problem that mere talk will not resolve."

(lets get a talk/cha here. at a +2 for making good points, youre def convincing them, we're just hoping your reason prevails over their fanaticism)

(8+2 for 10)

"Brothers, he is right. This crusade of ours....is fruitless" the rectifier of the group says. "We will never be truly done with our mission, victory is ephemeral, and we will attain it, even if someday, we somehow to purify everything"

"If I may make a suggestion. Your goal, misguided as it may be, is not ignoble. You should shift your focus from eliminating those with problems to solving the manifold problems that afflict this universe. Your abilities are rare and powerful, if you were to change your ways I might be able to convince the governor of this planet to let you live and pay off the debt you owe for the lives taken."

"How would we do this? What proof can we offer?"

(Did the Taros yama king ever come back to the Vapormills branch? Xu was training her before the branch was attacked and that Taros psychic PC talked to her after to see if she'd return. I assume that's something Reg would know)

4:44 PM

(Don't know if she would have been trained enough to form pacts like Ricardo did)

(she never came back because Yan kept hitting on her, but she could always be looked for)

(Lmao)

(maybe new management will convince her to come back)

6:35 PM

(Ricardo is an NPC now as far as I am concerned, and he can likewise do this)

(Ok, I'll for sure check up on her but if Ricardo can do it that works for now) "I know of a man who can form a binding pact with each of you. Breaking such a pact results in the death of the offending party, so all we need trust is your own self preservation. The specific terms to be set can be worked out when he arrives, until then I must turn you over to the governor's authority. Not only is he a good man, but a prudent one. He will likewise be interested in preserving your talents for a particular upcoming problem."

"Very well, we will submit, if we can be dealt with fairly, and will agree to the pact"

Regulus sends a message back to the Pedagogue as well as to Shriven. Land near the burning ruins, I'm bringing some guests with me. Send for Intelligence agent Ricardo, we have need of him.

He will be dispatched from Gudrun within the hour. Landing now. do you require medical attention?

8:10 PM

(I feel like they're still not 100% sure how to deal with you, exactly, so they'd still ask)

Thank you, but that will not be necessary. Regulus turns towards the mages, "My ship awaits us above. Tell me more about the pool as we walk."

"My mechanical friend, have you any notion of a person with talents we would call a Free Nexus?"

"I've seen the name mentioned before but I've never encountered one. Something about enhancing others through some sort of bond?"

Excellent, thank you for your service. As discussed Alfred will be transferring one share of Ad Astra to you. Do with it as you will. The earnings report will be coming out in the next few days.

(edited)

"Correct, this pool is many, many, times that kind of power, and without the cost of a human essence to fuel it. The pool still demands, it lies at the intersection of laylines, and we must be careful how much we take, and how often"

10:25 AM

"It is a resource to be carefully shepherded"

"How interesting. I can record the precise mechanics while we wait for Mr. Ricardo. With the governor's permission I may construct a base here to maintain and study the pool." Regulus leads them out of the tunnel and over to his ship.

THey seem compliant , and here, out in direct sunlight, you can see their growing frailty of age, much of their sinister trappings and harness now a bit more plain, and mundane, in the daylight.

Regulus gestures over to the burning castle, "I trust you know better than to cross me while we wait. We shall stay here for now, your surviving followers will be allowed to live as well providing they agree to similar terms." (There's a rectifier and pacter, what's the third mage?)

(a free nexus, but the normal degree of free nexus, not enhanced by the pool_

4:15 PM

"One man, one..whatever you are, did all this. We would be crushed like insects"

".... I'm not sure what I am anymore. But such violence is against my nature." It still is... right? "Come aboard my ship, I have more questions about the pool." (I'm good to skip to Ricardo coming if you wanna just let me know the general mechanics of the pool)

(It's going to be a project, sort of tied in with the psionic forge we all keep forgetting about haha)

(Sounds good

I figured it might be something like that)

The Pedagogue lands, and its ramp lowers, allowing your group to enter its austere space. Crewmen deferentially move aside as the group boards the ship, heading for the spartan, but a bit more well appointed, lounge area

"Make yourselves comfortable. It's a six day spike from Gudrun so we have some time." (Spending the time studying the pool with the crew on watch for any survivors returning to the area)

(So you’re waiting here at the ruins for Ricardo to show up? Just for clarity sake I’m asking)

(Yeah, figured if they decide to attack or something it's safer here than taking them to a city)

8:16 PM

(And Reg wants to spend some time checking out the pool/maybe clearing some of the castle rubble for the BoI)

(Boop)

Ricardo arrives within days, dropped off quietly, in the dead of night. He looks haggard and very weak, the Creusa campaign shaking his confidence in both the army and his own abilities. His hooded eyes brighten for a moment as they see you, waiting to recieve his visit

7:31 PM

"Headmaster. It's been some time since I visited the academy. youre looking...beyond well"

Regulus nods to him as he approaches, "The past few months have been rather interesting for me. Are you still active in Intelligence? You know there's a place for you at the academy if you're feeling lost. We even have a young Yama King if you're interested in instructing rather than fieldwork. I find teaching to be one of the best ways to learn as well, I think it would be good for you. But I digress, our 'guests' are inside, likely sleeping. I'll leave the legal jargon to you, just assure they will not harm any more people. Be sure to exclude the fleshshapers from that of course. I don't think any sort of enforced obedience is necessary, they might not be good people but they shouldn't be slaves. Anything else I might be missing?"

"Nothing comes to mind, I'll have a chat with them and see what we can weave"

(You don't need to RP with yourself for the contracts lol, unless you want me to give specific wording we can skip over it)

(I can give you the bullet points because I feel like reg would probably want to do more than just okay youre in kid, go get em)

(Yeah probably, sounds good)

8:18 PM

Regulus leads Ricardo into the ship and gathers the mages for the ceremony.

The agreement is as follows: the mages will not harm any beings but the fleshshapers either with their abilities, with weapons, or with their bare hands. the mages will work with the academy to help uncover the secrets of this island, and the nexus pool the mages will atone for this loss of life by assisting the academy with its projects, and being available to crew its academies, and train new students

(What are their names?) Regulus watches and nods along as he observes the contract process. "These terms are acceptable. For now these are your assignments." He points to the free nexus and pacter, "The two of you will remain on this island to aid the building of facilities here and then the study of the nexus pool. Most of what you had previously will be insufficient, a new high tech lab will be constructed. Perhaps I can recruit a few bright minds from Rebirth to be stationed here. You." Regulus points at the rectifier, "You will return with me to Gudrun. A rectifier there will teach you the ways of healing instead of harm. When ready you will report to Dr. Siegfried at the hospital and aid him until you receive further instructions. Are these assignments agreeable?"

(Oh god, more names)

1:14 PM

Bound to their duties by word and oath, they begin settling in and thinking of what to do next. "I wou;d not expect more to come from the wilderness to join us, headmaster. I've dismissed them. All you will find out there are piles of equipment

1:14 PM

(the militia type folk here were bound drudges )

(You don't have to come up with names if you don't want lol, I just figured they might be semi-important academy npcs for a bit) "Well the equipment should be salvaged if you've time, but I will send for a construction crew to join you here along with the proper materials and supplies you need. I'll instruct the Pedagogue's crew to aid you for now, I shall fly (rectifiers' name) and myself back on my own. Any questions about your duties before we depart? I expect to be gone on an exploratory mission for some time."

The have no questions and bound by a new oath, you can only hope they fulfill the terms, because their life literally does depend on it (6xp, 10,000 credits)

(Level up!) Regulus helps the crew and mages get set up on the island before boarding the ship to depart. He uses remote interface to fire up the ship and begin its journey back to Gudrun to meet up with Dax.

4

(Ready to start things with Dax whenever you're ready, take your time though!)

(For level up: metapsi->4; Flawless Mastery: Psychic Static [can be changed once a month]; Impervious Pavis of Will: Metapsi Biosi->2) (edited)

(Also gonna grab a drone before heading out with Dax)

Leaving Dax once the fleshshaper bodies and other research was safely stored in Rebirth, Regulus heads back to the academy to check in on Doona and see if Crane has returned.

Crane is expected to return at the end of the month, but has sent word that her return trip is on schedule and she is going to be departing on time. The NMC now has a minimally trained teacher in each of the Tenebrian Standard disciplines (the core book ones) , and it is up to them to fine tune the curriculum to the NMC's own cultural standards

I should check in with Greystar to see if they have need of teachers... Pelgason will need some soon as well. There's also the nexus pool to study and research into the ritual Xu Ganara mentioned to use against the beast. Too much for one scholar to do alone.

Regulus sends a message to Svenka to set up potential contact with Greystar psychics. (Did you have anything planned for Grupp with the nexus pool? We didn't get very far into that when Dax was on his cruise)

(Also for lvl up: Telekinesis-4; New focus: Limited Study - Projectile Repulsion Field)

1

(I did. Do you want to pick that up instead or run this. That was around the time stuff went wrong on my end)

(Yeah, let's bounce back there for that)

##Begin Secure Transmission## Headmaster Regulus Fate, I hope this missive finds you in good health. I do not believe we have ever had the pleasure of meeting, my name is Eisheru Tidecaller formerly of Terezinho and now of the Greystar Confederation. Our mutual friend passed along your message and you would be correct that Acastus and the nearby region lacks a formal Academy to train young psychics. This is definitely something that I would like to rectify and I will be sure to bring this to the attention of our Director and other leadership. I will be sure to inform you of our council's decision in approximately one months time. Should you have any other questions do not hesitate to reach out. Fair Winds and Following Seas, Eisheru Tidecaller Liaison Greystar Confederation ##End Secure Transmission##

Regulus looks up from reading Grupp's report on the nexus pool as the emergency broadcast flashes across all nearby screens. Too large for his desk, Regulus sits cross legged on the floor of his office, a number of books floating around him for him to reference. I thought we would have more time... A foolish wish. I'll need to be there in case a strategic retreat is necessary. Until our ships can block their spike jammers I must be available on the front, too many could die otherwise. The floor creaks beneath his weight as he stands, stooping slightly to fit through the door and towards the Pedagogue.

10:54 PM

(Would he have time to visit Sumati before taking on the shapers? He wants to be as prepared as he can be and the pool could help. If there's not time he wouldn't bother)

(You’d be at the emergency council via holo but yes

(Cool. I figured I'd have RL time to since everyone else is finishing up stuff and this would just be an RP thing)

6:44 AM

Regulus boards his ship, preparing to holo in to the council. "Captain, take us to Sumati. It'll be a quick trip and likely we'll be heading to war from there."

6:45 AM

"Hopefully we can simply hitch a ride with Shriven's forces."

The ship proceeds quickly to the planet , and below the preparations for war are beginning. You can see the many ships begin assembling in space, some swarmed by maintainers completing repairs before the ships set off for war

"Meet with Shriven's fleet captain, I shall return shortly." Regulus reaches into the psychic bond he's been maintaining with Dax and suddenly finds himself by the castle ruins at the edge of the tunnel leading to the pool. (Personal Apportation, 1 effort expended to maintain Concert of Minds) Let us see what the mages have done. Regulus heads down into the tunnel to the nexus pool.

(Oh that's still a thing? Huh)

8:51 PM

(You're welcome)

(Lasts till he drops it)

(Time to TK all the things in the Corngull hideout)

(I figure it's been a few weeks since Grupp went since he was there while Reg was gone so I'm hoping they will have gone over the info he sent them)

(What was actually sent? Did we ever decide that?)

(Pretty much anything that's not strictly confidential. General info on the forge and crystals. Some stuff on Shangri La but without specifics on location or anything. All info we have on the various types of magic/psionics. We researched the Al-Wayid light show but I don't think you've said what we got from that yet, so if it's relevant we would share that too)

Large data dump has been done in the previous weeks and the mages here have been hard at work catching themselves up on what the UNW has been working at. They seem interested though so far they have not transmitted back any observations of their own

"Hmm so no new revelations as of yet? Disappointing, but expected with how much you have to sift through. It seems the shaman was able to run a few tests with you last time. Though generally the limits of the pool are still unknown, he helped quantify some of the pool's capabilities. I am here to hopefully reap some of those benefits though I unfortunately do not have time for further tests. A large fleshshaper incursion is eminent and we need all the aid we can get."

They bristle at the mention of the shapers ”This pool falling into their hands would be a disastrous development. The powers they could wield would make them truly unstoppable”

"Indeed. That should be avoided at all cost. I expect you to be its protectors as well as studying it. Though if it comes to it, we're better off destroying the pool than letting them possess it."

8:13 AM

Regulus approaches the pool, "So how does this work. We hold hands and look into?"

“Indeed and the pool does the rest. It’s quite intuitive. More feeling and less function.”

"Hmm. I for one prefer function to feeling, but I suppose I do not have time to understand how it functions before I try." He stands at the edge of the pool, large metal hands clasp those of the mages next to him. Feeling has gotten more difficult lately... I've become too removed from the humans I fight so hard to instruct and protect... I even refer to them as 'humans' as if I were not once one. But my own humanity is something I would sacrifice every time for the betterment of the galaxy. And so once more I seek power I do not understand when all I wish to seek is knowledge. But what use is new knowledge if we cannot protect what is already known. He gently squeezes the hands of the mages next to him before gazing out into the strange pool.

(Same thing for reg. His most core concept or what is most true about him)

Mystic

(No rush on this, just making sure you saw it)

(I did I’m debating between a few different options based on what you said)

(You're good

as I said no rush)

(I was waffling between Sorcery or Knowledge from Godbound, but I think knowledge is a better feat. Two lesser gifts, or one greater)

Regulus falls heavily to one knew as he's flooded with power. The soft blue glow of the godwalker flashes molten gold as its systems adjust. He raises his head slowly, "It... It will take some time and many tests to fully comprehend what I have gained here. But... The power of this pool is vast." He stands and looks to the mages next to him, "The fleshshapers are not coming here today, but when they do you will defend this place with your life. I hope to be here beside you if that time comes, but if not you know what to do. I'm sorry to leave again so quickly but I have a war to wage gentlemen." Regulus gives the mages a quick bow before heading back to the Pedagogue to meet with Shriven's fleet.

Something flickers at the edge of Sumati system space as you make your own way out, but the scanners confirm nothing there, as the Pedagogue jumps to meet up with the fleet

11:48 AM

(3xp, 5000 credits)

(That's not ominous at all)

(So my plan is to go to Acastus to talk about setting up an academy branch there as well as discuss our inter-polity council, then join up with Robert to head south towards the Wraith Nebula)

8:16 PM

(Before he leaves he'd want to set up the sanctum for his spell, anything you want me to do for that or just a week of downtime?)

(It being reg, who is a literal godwalker now I’d say just the week. He would know what to do but this kind of advanced knowledge of magic and psi witchery is due to his character not something everyone can do )

(Hah, yeah that seems fair. Using downtime to switch his Flawless Mastery, it takes a month) (edited)

(Noooooo don't switch. It's OK if Neko hates you.)

(I mean, he still has Psychic Static lol. It'll just cost effort now)

Regulus once again borrows from his gestalt and teleports back to the academy, intent on finding Crane and possibly Galene to travel with him to Acastus.

(Which do you want? I think with both of them just being gone one remaining at academy makes sense

(Well with Galene an npc now I figured she would have learned a bit from Crane about how to teach in NMC but probably doesn't have metapsi-3 yet, so just Crane then)

(Crane will go)

12:07 PM

Crane has not unpacked yet so repacking is an easy thing for her to do. This time she is leaving her pet behind, the travel has done a fair amount to unsettle the poor beast

"Ah, I appreciate your willingness to help Miss Crane. I expect your stay to not be as long here, while they do not have an academy they do have some few established psychics including some tidecallers trained on Terezinho. Are you sure you do not mind leaving again so soon?"

“I’m part of the academy. Where the academy goes, I go. Im@leaving Corvus this time though. The travel didn’t go so well. I’m pretty sure the crew wanted to eat him by the end last time”

"Ah, well I'm sure Dr. Ahn and the others will take good care of him. Galene even seems to have a similar affinity for creatures as yourself. Alas the duty of a teacher is never complete as long as ignorance reigns in this world. It is our calling to follow and fight it where we can. Especially an ignorance as particularly deadly as psionics. You proved yourself well with the NMC, Dr. Ahn and I are both proud. Let us go save some more lives now yes?"

“The only good is knowledge” she agrees. “How do you feel about heading back there. After....” she lets the statement hang, but you see her looking your refined robotic form up and down

Regulus is silent for a minute, metallic fingers scraping against what serves as a chin, where once a tangled beard grew. "Yes, I died last I was there. It seems so distant, my life from before. I spent an eternity inside the metadimension, nothing more than a thought. In truth it was what, maybe six month before the shaman discovered how to anchor me to a body. But I had an endless amount of time to review and reflect upon my final moments. I cannot regret what I did, my glimpse into her mind revealed her plans for the singularity gun among other insights. I only regret leaving you and Dr. Ahn alone, without hope of my return. I'm... sorry. You've been away for most of the time since my return so I hadn't the chance to say it. But I believe the two of you were affected most by my death, and I am sorry for it. And I will do my best to make it up to you." He puts a hand on her shoulder, looking down at her, "How I feel about heading back? Hopeful, Miss Crane. Hopeful."

She smiles, and reaches over to embrace you. The fog from her breathing gently coats a metal chest plate in time with her rhythm. “I’m hopeful too” she says, pulling back “and happy you’re back.” (Re roll token)

5:09 PM

(Taking the pedagogue?$

(Yes sir!)

The ship is readied and preparations are made to head to Acastus (which is a 9 day trip from Gudrun I believe )

6:24 PM

(Not sure if you e got downtime activities in mind)

(Working on switching Flawless Mastery, I think I had 7 days before so this'll put it at 16/30)

You arrive in Acastus space after the long trip, to find that dax has arrived here just a bit before you. The same escort vessel brings you planetside, bypassing customs , to land in the airport where the raid took place almost a year ago. The control tower is still beheaded but the wrecks of the burned atmofighters have been cleared. The walls remain standing , though the breach has been excavated and turned into proper access road with gate

8:52 AM

Acastus defense force reserve troopers guard the access road and points along the walls

8:53 AM

The trailblazer sits parked with two members of his crew lunching outside its ramp

(Yeah but I like totally left my ship 2 days ago or something. Definitely not still there because I'm slow to post

)

"Hmm, I wonder what Withers is doing here. Helping them deal with some problem while likely creating more of his own I've no doubt. I had best see if I can arrange a meeting with the director and the Tidecaller." He looks out over the airport, recalling vivid memories of that night, eyes lingering on a certain spot near where the barracks were before shaking it off and exiting the ship. (edited)

A small staff car and a second one , both empty but for drivers begin making their way over to the landed ship. The drivers are dressed in reserve force uniforms. Their faces are mostly expressionless. In the sky, the second moon of Acastus and the lingering hunks of the battle moon dot the sky

As the cars arrive Regulus motions for Crane to enter the second car and then follows behind her, turning towards the driver. "Greetings, I am Regulus Fate. I have a tentative appointment with Tidecaller Eisheru and hope to gain an audience with Director Kensh whom I know personally."

“There May be something you need to see before we take you to the director. There’s been an incident with the tide caller and two of your own UNW notables. “

UNW notables? Withers probably. The other.. Seung must still be here. "Of course. Brief me along the way?"

7:51 PM

(I can hop into the group mission if there isn't anything else to add)

(YeH we can jump into shaper fortress as Seung and the General have agreed to have you sent for )

Regulus gives a shallow bow as Dorian and Seung leave before returning to his seat, "I have brought this up before to both Miss Vilnovha and the Tidecaller, but my main purpose for coming here is to aid in establishing a psychic academy here. So far Greystar has relied on external sources of training such as the Tidecallers of Terezinho or wild talents which are unreliable at best, dangerous to themselves and others at worst. If you choose to accept my aid you have two choices. To become a branch of a multi-polity academy and share our plentiful resources both financial and research based. Or to establish your own separate academy run solely by yourselves. In the latter case we would train any metapsionics you have in the techniques that make teaching safe and possible and then leave you to your own devices. For the former your branch would have its own leader just as our two current branches have their respective leaders that fall under my own authority. Politics would be inconsequential, my first loyalty is to all psychics above that to the UNW. No students would have any obligations to aid or join any polity they do not wish to. Tuition in my schools is free for all students, though they are expected to do work utilizing their abilities as a part of their training. Expenses not covered by contract work or donations come directly out of my personal pocketbook. All willing students are accepted without question and will be trained at the very least the minimum to no longer be dangerous to themselves or others. These are the primary principles your school would be required to follow if a part of our psionic academy. Any other personal restrictions or rules that do not infringe upon these may be set by the branch leader. My personal choice to lead would be you Tidecaller. But you would be able to decide among yourselves who is best fit to lead." @Eisheru, et al.

Eisheru sits attentively listening to the Headmaster pitch his offer of a psychic academy here on Acastus. Something that had been weighing on his mind since he arrived in the Eastern sector. He just hadn't yet had the time to truly delve into the matter. Once he finishes, Eisheru takes a moment to formulate his thoughts before responding. "Truly you speak the heart of the matter, Master Fate. We are severely lacking in the capability to train young psychics. My personal feeling is that the best way forward would be to invite an already established organization to Acastus. Director, I feel as though we need to consider the conservation of effort that would come with inviting the Headmaster's Academy to our planet. My only concern with me leading the academy is that I am merely a Telepath. I lack the gifts necessary to facilitate the training..." Eisheru has never felt inadequate with his gift until now. (edited)

"Merely a telepath? If I'm not mistaken you have recently discovered a new psychic discipline. Albeit not one you could teach and likely without the full benefits the fleshshapers get from it. Tetrogenetics is what I've been calling their ability to manipulate flesh. The extent of your own skills with this discipline will come out with study and practice. I believe learning this has partially awakened you to learning more disciplines in the traditional manner. I sensed something earlier. A surge of power in you that resonated all the way back to Gudrun. If you will come with me there, I believe I can fully open you to all psychic disciplines."

"I had assumed it was more of an aberrant technique, not an entire discipline that could be mastered... I... Did not... Did not believe it would be possible for me to become a true Tidecaller of my people... The Masters always said that I did not have the capacity to handle the flow of energy... Yes! I would. That is if I can be released from official duty, for a time, Director?" (edited)

(there are like three things that i just need to take care of before leaving Acastus. Shouldn't take more than a day IC)

"Whether it is simply a technique or more will come out with practice, training, and study. As for a location for the new campus... Tell me director, what has been done with the Still Lady's old domain?"

“The pyramid was destroyed by a direct shot from the planetary breaker gun. There wasn’t anything left hardly but we bulldozed and gathered up the pieces we did find. They were dumped into the volcanoes near the city”

7:15 PM

“The site has a bad reputation. Nobody wants to build over that”

"Headmaster, there is the House of The Movement of the Spheres that tracks the event that caused magic to appear on Acastus, next to it would make for a fine campus."

"I rather enjoy the irony of building over her grave. It would do well to put an end to her lingering shadow and instead it be a place of light and learning. I never discovered why but she had a particular hatred for psychics, our Vapormills branch was the only Gudrun establishment she directly attacked. Call it poetic justice I suppose, but if you have no qualms with it I would have our academy there. I can go check the site while the Tidecaller gathers his things and ties up loose ends."

(Man, either of those sites are good. We could do both like an academy/shangra-la Kinda deal since the house of movement is well outside the city

(NGL the sticking it to the still Lady is pretty dope)

(Up to you guys. I’m groovy either way)

(My vote is to build on her grave. the House of the Movement of Spheres could have like a satellite campus. I think it would do the people of Acastus well to have a positive thing be built there) (edited)

"I personally don't know much about the House of the Movement of Spheres, I would be happy to have a satellite campus there if there is need for it, perhaps with an emphasis in training and studying magic."

"If you will excuse me, Director and Headmaster, I'll go and get my affairs in order. I can meet you at the airport once I am ready to depart, Master Fate" Eisheru stands and bows his head before departing the room.

Regulus nods to Eisheru as he leaves before relaxing a little, leaning back in his chair. "It's been a long time since Terezinho. How are you holding up? Last I saw you you almost died to one of those trigreen jademane monstrosities, now you're leading multiple planets and millions of people. Mercenary to politician. Quite the accomplishment."

“It’s not a path I expected to be on but it’s one I found myself in. Couple shadow raids against the remnant too for our NMC friends

7:29 PM

“It’s been no small amount of work to keep things gojng, but we survived here thanks to the help. Everyone’s help. We have a duty to keep working

"My own path has had its fair share of twists as well. No one gets through life here alone and I am glad to have you and your people as an ally. I must say, the UNW is going through a transition, just as Greystar has. Cyrus has vanished, Marcion retired, people like Robert Tanzer are gaining power... Our councils speak more often of peace and diplomacy rather than conquest. We're headed to a new era that will define our polity in the post-fleshshaper world, assuming we all survive. I think a little trust both ways would not be misplaced for our respective groups." Regulus stands to leave, giving Kensh a deep bow, "Oh, and in the interest of communication, we recently have found a fleshshaper attempting to assume human form on Gudrun. We have someone investigating, but you should keep an eye out. I'll make sure you are informed of any updates we receive on this."

His eyes widen but the rest of his face remains neutral upon hearing that. “I will be sure to advise my security forces. Though I’m not sure what we can do to detect them. That does bring me to another point however. Nulnetalum access. We did not have any to use or spare during this fight with the shapers and it felt as though our forces were worse off without it. Even as bullets for a small elite team “

"I am leaving one of our finest instructors here, Miss Crane. She and any metapsions she trains will be able to detect them. We're working on alternate means that don't require more psychics than we have. As for nulmetanium, access to that left only minutes ago. Governor Whitaker still controls the only source we're aware of, though the remnant almost assuredly had more. Speak to him before he leaves and I'm sure you can work something out. One last point, do you have a space Crane could use for training while the campus is under construction?"

“She can work out of the cellar here or out of the starhab, as long as none of the powers used have a chance of breaking the hull. My ships are fewer in number than they were before and id rather not lose more of them.

"Only a very powerful telekinetic could do that, though an electrokinetic could cause some damage as well. Training wouldn't progress that far before the campus is complete enough to train there. I shall inform her and go inspect the site to be certain no dark energy lingers." Regulus bows once more before heading out towards the city center where the pyramid once lie.

(Taking Crane too? or just you)

(Yeah she can come check it out too)

The both of you arrive at the site of the former pyramid belonging to the still lady. It’s absence is almost more notable than its former presence dominating the skyline. A gap in the city has been left here, like it’s had its heart torn out and the other buildings are scared to get too close. Litter has accumulated all over the area. No one has been brave enough to go in and clean it, though the eight foot perimeter wall has remained intact

2:10 PM

Around the large lot. Anti still lady, pro still lady , and anti still lady again graffiti battles for space along the outside in the areas that didn’t crack apart during the battle.

2:10 PM

Scrub brush and small glowing mushrooms fight for space to bloom along the rubble

Regulus lifts Crane and himself to the top of the wall and gazes out over the ruins, "Such hate and destruction. We will need to be wary of those who still support her, we do not want a repeat of Vapormills. Director Kensh suggested the starhab for training while construction begins, she should have no supporters there. Though there might still be some among Greystar who see us as a UNW incursion rather than a force to unite all psychics, so still be cautious. Come, let us be certain there is no danger here for the construction team." Regulus flies down from the wall, hovering over the ruins and stretching his metasenses wide for any signs of shadows or dark energy.

Reg, it is a shame that you can't accompany me this time, but I doubt we will make it all the way to the nebula with only two months worth of supplies and no rutters charted. There will definitely be a place for you on the next expedition. I will investigate this island on Sumati for you, and I shall maintain this secret of yours, whatever it ends up being. I hope that in the future our work won't keep us as separated as we have been in recent months.

Your friend, Robert.

The site is abandoned and foreboding due to its location and history but as you expand your meta psionic senses you do not feel any lingering traces of the darkness that held this city in such deep thrall. It feels to both of you as through the still lady is truly gone

Regulus places a hand on Crane's shoulder, "It will be good for the people here to be rid of these ruins. We'll likely need to pay a bit extra for the work crews to come near but it will be worth it. Are you ready to begin teaching?" With a flash Regulus teleports them back to the Pedagogue, "Captain, take miss Crane to the starhab then head back to Gudrun. I will meet you there. I have... alternate means of returning. Miss Crane, I wish you luck. Please contact me if there's anything you require for your efforts."

She nods and collects herself. “Please be safe headmaster. I’ll make sure this is completed the way you need it to be. I’ll report any new psychics that come forward to you. “

Regulus gives her an awkward pat on the head before exiting the ship, looking about for Eisheru.

Regulus finds him a little ways away getting out of a staff car. He does not have much with him, just a single duffle bag. "Good third rise to you, Headmaster. I trust the new site for the Academy branch is suitable?"

"Indeed, all dark energy has dissipated with her death. I hope this helps ease the pain of those affected, even slightly. If nothing else there will no longer be a giant reminder of their suffering in the middle of their city. You have all of your things?"

Eisheru nods in agreement."I think it will do a lot of good to see her mark expunged from the planet. Yes this is all I need. I am rather used to a transient lifestyle having been with Greystar for a time. I am ready to depart when you are."

Regulus nods, placing a hand upon your shoulder. You feel a nauseating shift of body and find yourself at the entrance of a cave somewhere within the mushroom forest. There are signs of habitation inside the cave, but none look recent. "This was the rebel camp we aided when we raided the airport. They were tired, scared, wounded. But there was a light in their eyes, a fire no dark magics could extinguish. I healed many of them, though my biopsionic skills were rather amateur at the time... They brought my body back here after. This is the first place I appeared, while the connection to my body was still fresh." Regulus is silent for a minute before shaking his head, "Anyway, I figured it would be best to have some privacy for this. I'm attempting something new that I would rather not become popular knowledge."

Eisheru watches as the Pedagogue rises up into the sky. He begins to say something but the next thing he notices is the cave ceiling he is staring up at. Confused, Eisheru turns towards the hulking headmaster. He begins to speak again but then a wave of nausea hits and he has to close his eyes for a brief moment to recenter himself. Eisheru looks about the cave and smells the damp earth. His eyes come to rest on the metallic face and tries to read the emotion like he would any other humanoid. "The famed Headmaster's Ghost... Yet here you are standing in the dark cave where they laid you to rest. Really makes you question the definition of life..." Eisheru resists the urge to attempt a connection with the Headmaster and continues scanning his facial structure. "What are we doing in this cave anyway? What do we need privacy for?"

"You'll see." Regulus turns towards the inside of the cave, hands outstretched. His hands and fingers begin moving in intricate, precise motions, a glowing arcane rune shimmers in the air in front of him, expanding before disappearing in a blinding flash. Once your vision returns you see before you a large rectangular hole in space leading to somewhere else. Regulus steps back, inspecting his work before turning to you gesturing towards the hole. "Welcome to Gudrun Tidecaller."

6:58 AM

Through the portal you see the inside of a rather plain looking building, like an empty garage. There seems to be nothing remarkable about it besides the floor, which is covered in runes, glyphs, and neat script flowing in geometric patterns centered around where the portal appeared. (edited)

Eisheru tries to suppress a gasp and fails. He had heard of people being able to open stationary portals, but never imagined he would see one. "Valheru guide me..." he mumbles to himself while he looks around the portal. "By the depths... I did not think I would ever witness such magics..." Eisheru slowly approaches the doorway inspecting as much as his senses can before slowly stepping through the portal. If he was nauseous from the first translocation, this one was akin to being punched in the gut as his body and consciousness is thrust from one sector of space to another in the matter of an instant. (edited)

Regulus follows you through the gate. Looking back instead of Acastus you see an opaque grayish curtain of energy that appears semi-solid. "The properties are somewhat similar to that of an L-Gate. It requires a properly prepared Sanctum to target but travel is one-way only. The primary reason some subtly is required when using this is that the gate remains open for precisely eleven minutes with no way to shut it prematurely. We wouldn't want someone stumbling through on accident not to mention following with more nefarious intentions. If you don't mind, I would prefer we wait here until it closes to be certain nothing of the sort occurs." (edited)

Eisheru nods as if he understands but definitely doesn't. "I do not mind. So how did a prodigious Psychic learn to master such arcane arts?"

Regulus gestures to his body, "My new body has granted me some facility with the arcane. They called it Godwalker, though I know not who 'they' were as of yet. As dean of the Acastus school you will receive our limited files on godwalkers, though general access is restricted. Arcane constructs similar to psimechs but with strange abilities we've found no way to replicate. Information within the godwalker suggests others could exist but beyond that little is known."

"Godwalker... Is this Slyth arcanotech? It does this predate them?"

5:43 PM

he says as he stares at the intricacies of the construction. Marveling at the power necessary to craft such a relic. (edited)

"I'm not sure if the slyth possessed any arcane affinities, they were masters more of pretech than arcanotech. Even Gudrun's leading arcanotechnician has neither seen nor heard of anything like. Nor could he hope to replicate it without further information on its origins. I am unsure if it predates the slyth, but it is certainly not their creation."

"I don't mean to stare, but it is marvelous construction... Do you... Do you miss being of flesh?" Eisheru immediately regrets asking the very personal question "I'm sorry Headmaster, that was very forward of me you don't have to answer"

Regulus gives a rare chuckle, "I would doubt your capability as a teacher if you lacked curiosity. Though your actions in the fleshshaper fortress proved your capacity in that respect I believe." He's silent for a moment before he speaks again, "Though I can't deny the significant advantages of this body, I do miss aspects of humanity. The taste of fine wine. The feeling of a cool breeze on a warm day. The smell of an old leather bound book. I have sensors that can approximate these things, but it isn't the same. I must say though, not needing to sleep is incredibly convenient. There's little enough time in the day to waste a third of it unconscious."

Eisheru's embarrassment is quickly replaced by the fleeting memories he has inside the fortress. Eisheru seems lost in thought for a long minute. Present, yet not. "I'm just glad my curiosity did not cost a man his life. And hopefully what was learned was worth his arm." he says at long last breaking the silence. He shakes his head gently as if trying to shake away the memory. "Headmaster, sorry to change the topic, but what drives the Shapers? The only emotion I felt was hunger. And not just you haven't eaten all day hunger. But a maddening insatiable unending hunger..." Eisheru finally manages to look into the Godwalkers eyes, or what would pass for them (edited)

"Far to the south lies an incomprehensible beast whose mere scream obliterated life as we knew it. It is a creature of infinite hunger that seeks only to devour. It would consume everything that exists in the universe and still not be sated. Two years and seven months ago a group of terribly foolish psychics called out to this being, having sensed its immensity and power. The Scream was its answer. I know not exactly how it became their master, but the hunger of the fleshshapers comes from this beast. Each time they kill, each time they die, they feed it. And the fleshshapers are not its only minions, though we can hope they are its most fearsome. A dear friend of mine is leaving to search for a weakness to this beast, though the journey alone will likely take many months. He is joined by some of those foolish psychics who called out, hoping to rectify their mistake. I wish them well as the fate of the universe may depend upon this."

"I wish them well... What is the man's name? May Kalahira protect him... That is... An incredible undertaking."

"Robert Tanzer. Probably the best pilot in the UNW. Also precognative. First Warden of the Void Wardens. And one of the few I consider a close friend."

9:41 PM

(I assume nothing crazy comes out of the gate?)

(nope, you are alone)

The gate flashes and is gone, leaving the large room empty aside from the swirling script inscribed into the floor. Regulus nods then turns and heads towards a door in the side of the room, "It never hurts to be cautious. Would you like to see the academy? Or shall we go directly to Rebirth?"

"It feels wrong to indulge this curiosity, but yes. During my years with the Master Callers I paid little mind to the structure of our training." Eisheru seems to come out of his melancholy. He walks with his hands clasped loosely behind him. (I'm assuming reg is larger than average human in the Godwalker mech?) He walks abreast of the Headmasterb as they head for the door. Looking forward to what lay on the other side

(Yeah he's 7ft tall when shrunk which he usually is, around 24ft normal height)

11:13 PM

Regulus opens the door which leads outside. The building you exit looks like a plain storage warehouse, a large garage-style door adjacent to the smaller one you exited. To your right lies an empty hangar where you imagine the Pedagogue normally rests. And before you lies the Gudrun Academy. (I'll let Neko describe it, I don't remember what the outside looks like haha)

(*theres actually a floorplan on roll20)

9:37 AM

(nova academy, in the UNW psi academy folder)

(Yeah, I just didn't remember what the outside was like)

The outside of the building has creeping vines beginning to grow up it, neglected by Crane unintentionally, she has been offworld for some time. It does add a certain charm to the warm brown stone of its facade. The windows are tinted dark, both for privacy and security, and the campus is surrounded by a six foot fence made from stone posts and iron bars. It provides an obstacle to crossing, but not to vision.

9:39 AM

Two academy security staff in their faded black uniforms walk the grounds, pistols snugly holstered on their hip. The stairs are wide, and there are two flights of ten, each of them has fleks of mica worked into the dark stone, giving it a starfield like apperance

9:40 AM

crane's desk, and the main atrium doors are ahead , open during the day, and closed at night, but always watched over by three security detail now\

"A marvelous structure, Master Fate. How many students can you support in a location this size?" (edited)

"We've never quite reached capacity before, psychics were rare enough before the scream. We have a smaller satellite branch in one of the Taros cities as well. And a hidden campus as well, from back when psychics were persecuted after the scream. Between the three we can support quite many. But in hopes of bringing all psychics together I plan on building a main campus on a neutral planet. Perhaps Galatea as they have a unique MES concentration that allows them to lead lives with no concern for material goods."

"Do you worry that those who don't possess our gifts might see the creation of an interpolity group of psychics a problem to be eradicated?" he asks the headmaster as they walk through the three story structure

"I fear that will always be a problem, yes. People have always feared the unknown and little is an unknowable to them as the strange abilities we possess. That is why we must never misuse our powers or we risk becoming the threat they believe us to be. Instructing the general populace is as important as teaching our own, many have been fed anti-psychic propaganda by the remnant or other groups. After the remnant's defeat, there is currently no large-scale organized anti-psychic group but there are assuredly others out there, not to mention those who hate and fear us quietly. That is why our third campus remains hidden. A remote sanctuary for us to retreat to if needed."

"That is a prudent attitude. Will have to consider a similar enclave for Acastus. The people are still weary of the influence of the Still Lady and they might not understand the difference between the nuances in how MES presents in different forms. How many instructors do you, besides yourself?"

"Three others. Dr. Doona Ahn who is the dean of this school, miss Crane who will be teaching on Acastus until you have instructors of your own, and Xu Ganara who generally resides at our Vapormills branch though they are joining Robert Tanzer on his journey south. Dr. Ahn should be here, it would be prudent to update her on the situation." Regulus leads them to Doona's office.

"I think the Master Tide Summoners might find it amusing to see me being placed in the role of teacher..." Eisheru lets out a little chuckle himself "I must admit, I find the prospect humorous myself. Telepathy is a difficult discipline to teach... Or maybe I was just a terrible student... Hopefully the Masters don't come here to remove any doubt as to which is true..." he laughs again and follows the Headmaster up to the Dean's office.

(Is Doona in?)

(This never lit up)

7:10 PM

Doona ahn is in, finishing some private talk with her wife, Irene. Irene has been seen around more lately, especially after the failure of diplomatic efforts on Aliah. Her work has been advocating for re starting talks but it’s been months of no progress. She and doona have been almost inseparable since her return. Irene gives a small smile on her way out of the room, giving you all some privacy

Regulus gives Irene a respectful nod as she exits before turning to Doona, "Dr. Ahn, may I have the pleasure to introduce you to Eisheru Tidecaller, one of the foremost psychics of Greystar. It is my plan for him to be Dean of our school there once it is built, he and the director both found it prudent to utilize our plentiful resources and curriculum rather than their own."

Eisheru gives a generous bow to the dean "Pleasure is all mine, Dr. Ahn. I greatly look forward to learning from you and the Headmaster." he bows his head again after shaking the dean's hand.

“It’s a pleasure to want to be learned from” the small Korean woman says. She neatens a fold in her gray scrubs. “The headmaster and i have been working for some time on making the academy a respected institution once again and I’m happy to see new students coming through the doors”

"My hope to continue upon your good works. Especially in a place like Acastus that needs the help so desperately. I look forward to witnessing how you conduct your training. The School of Moon and Waves placed a huge emphasis on cultural teachings that were specific to my people. I am eager to learn how the trainings differ as well as find the similarities" (edited)

“The temple of five suns is the only Merlon group that’s ever sent someone through the academy before. I was rescued by Deckard, one of their sunblades months ago. I have nothing but respect for Merlons and their cultural ways

5:14 AM

“We aren’t here to overshadow local tradition but rather ensure the proper safeguards are met when it comes to preventing torching and ensuring all psychics have a base level of competency”

"The Sunblades of the Five Suns are greatly admired among my people as paragons of diplomacy... I have not had the pleasure of meeting any of the monks from the temple. You are lucky to count one a friend and protector..." Eisheru coughs to clear his throat before continuing, "I am glad to know similar emphasis is placed upon the protection of new psychics from themselves as they learn to develop their abilities. How does the Academy support itself? On Terezinho, the entirety of Merlon society contributes something to the facilities that train our MES practitioners..." his voice trails off allowing Dr. Ahn to answer the question. (edited)

"In the past we have been a small private organization, easily able to sustain itself through external contracts, my own personal funds, and donations. As we expand and hopefully run branches in both Pelgason and NMC as well as UNW and Greystar, we plan to ask for a small percentage of their monthly trade profits in exchange for our services."

"A small price to pay in exchange for Psychics that won't go mad and destroy the planet, I'd say..." After a few more minutes of small talk over basic administration and education (I don't have any more questions atm for Dr. Ahn), Eisheru clasps his hands behind his back and turns towards Regulus. "Headmaster, I am ready to handle our other matter when you are. Dr. Ahn I look forward to having you on Acastus once the newest branch has been completed. Thank you for your time." He says with another generous bow

(Yeah if you guys don’t need Doona right now I’m fine pushing on. Reg has a better answer than she was going to habe for what you were asking)

(Yeah I am good to move on unless Reg needs her for something. Eish is just hoping to learn as much as he can as he was a terrible student. So the small talk would have been focused on training methodology) (edited)

(iirc, and Reg can probably correct me here, the book is really mute on how exactly training looks aside from "it takes a long time" , i think each world was pretty mcuh left to do it how they saw fit as long as certain standards were met, but as far as who was taken/how they were trained is an irrelevance as long as the finished product is safe and works)

4:52 PM

(it almost felt like a human commodities thing)

(Yeah training simply to not torch yourself is only like 1 week I think, but training for proficiency is generally 2-3 years I think. But that would have been your training on Terezinho, there's no specific time for learning new techniques and disciplines in the book once initial training is complete)

5:08 PM

Regulus nods to Doona, "Give Irene my regards and apologies that we must leave so quickly. We will be in Rebirth for some time, I am unsure precisely for how long or even what exactly we will be doing. But I may have a breakthrough for my Book of Fate that involves the Psionic Forge."

(Yeah. The interpretations are endless. Could be shorter and more dangerous to learn stuff or something like the whole teenage years of a culture slow. I think he didn’t want to step on world building)

5:26 PM

“I’ll see the both of you before long I hope. Please be safe in rebirth and I will let Irene know you were inquiring.”

(yeah the only line in the book is the 1 week to not torch yourself to death)

5:27 PM

(which is kinda nice. Really keeps with the feeling of this is your Galaxy, here are some rules to help keep it organized)

Regulus leaves, leading Eisheru to the train station since they don't have the Pedagogue.

"If I had the stomach for translocation I don't know how I would travel any other way..." he says as he steps aboard the train "Never been to Gudrun..."

"I could teleport us there directly, but I would rather conserve my strength as we're not sure what all this will entail. I have not personally learned teleportation, I am currently borrowing it from someone else so it uses quite a bit more energy for me to do."

(Am I still plugged in to the skillshare?)

(He never let it go)

(

)

(I'm a precog 4. Time for a Dax prophecy)

(sweet jesus what have you done Reg... :P)

6:57 AM

"That is more than understandable. More just me musing what it would be like to teleport everywhere possible" Then it finally dawns on him what the Headmaster just said "Wait... what do you mean by borrowing it from someone else?"

"Ah, it's an advanced metapsionic technique. It can be quite straining on the metapsion so it isn't practice to use often, but in need it is very helpful."

"Hrm that would be why I have never heard of such a thing. Prior to the scream we had little use for Metapsions as our innate gift's could be controlled and taught safely without the need of the dampening powers they could employ. It wasn't until the horrible event that we even had a need for powerful metapsions to help train our uninitiated" Eisheru stares out the window as the train speeds off. He takes a moment to admire the scenery. He looks as if lost in thought for a time "So where are we headed, Headmaster? There is a force that is calling to me but I know not what it draws me towards" His tone seems to indicate a physical and spiritual question wrapped into one (edited)

(I’m caught up just don’t want to interrupt this)

"An artifact called the psionic forge. It was brought here from Rawhani and has great untapped potential. We have spent some time studying it and uncovered a small portion of what it can do, but resources generally end up going to more time sensitive problems so we've merely scratched the surface of what it does. We are able to use it to imbue items with some limited psionic techniques--a necklace to teleport to a specific place or glasses to see metadimensional energy, lots of potential but again has not been experimented with extensively yet. Perhaps that is similar to what we will do with you, imbue you with energy to widen the channels partially opened by the fleshshapers."

"I... I want to say I can 'see' the tether that pulls me to that place... I must admit I feel insane to say that." he says as he turns towards his guide.

"Perhaps it is an affinity for metapsionics beginning to awaken. I see it quite clearly, though I am used to seeing metadimensional energy around me all the time. Many parts of a psychic's life would seem insane to someone else, though I suggest you stay away from true insanity yes? That is at least part why we teach--madness and psionics have long gone hand in hand."

"So that is what I'm seeing... This is a far more pleasant experience than during my training... Normally for the untrained to see the energy like this we had to eat a special kind of newt that produces a secretion that has psychedelic properties. Some of the other side effects were... Uncomfortable to say the least... ~~That would explain the glow surrounding you and Dr. Ahn.~~ This will take some getting used to." (edited)

(Actually you wouldnt sense anything from either of us lol. I have Impervious Pavis of Will for metapsi and she's a nullifier)

2

(spidey senses... retracted that part) (edited)

"Ah, well generally we use the Concert of Minds technique to allow students to borrow and practice abilities outside their skill range, including the detection of metadimensional energy. Your senses will be much stronger once you learn the discipline properly."

9:02 AM

(I'm good to keep going Neko, we can still RP throughout)

(Same!)

"This will take some getting used to... At least with Telepathy I could choose to initiate the contact. I couldn't imagine always feeling the emotion of every being that came in close proximity."

(Teleporting to rebirth though ?)

(He was saying he wanted to conserve the effort because Regulus doesn't know what this process is going to entail. so I guess we taking the train like normies. But I am cool to speed up to Rebirth)

The train ride is about a day long, as you both discuss psionic teachings and what you hope to gain from your trip. The town of rebirth hosts the slyth research lab repurposed for scientific use, and a silver mine first developed by task force Phoenix. It’s a small town, built in the shadow of the the walled lab. Little development has taken place aside from a few support services here for the scientists and their families

(The forge is inside the lab right?) Regulus leads the way off the train and towards the lab, "The forge is technically owned by the Knights of Draconis, it is somewhat of a religious artifact for them I believe. They allow us to use and study it though, as none but their leader is psychic as far as I am aware."

(is the Star Forge that we found references to the same as the forge here?)

(No, that seemed specific to Acastus. This is from Rawhani)

"Quaint little village... I'm surprised they would let such a prized religious artifact away from their possession"

(No idea the origins of the forge or anything about the star one, so could be related though)

"Is it Slyth in origin? We found references to a 'Star Forge' on Acastus that was capable of empowering relics of old. The Slyth were searching for it as it was taken by the Shapers"

2:56 PM

(meant that we found the references on Acastus, not the actual forge)

"Not so far from them, the Knights live here as well. Though currently they are all off fighting for their homeland. To my knowledge it has no relation to the Slyth, I am quite fluent in the language and the forge shows no such iconography. Also I do not believe Rawhani contains any discovered Slyth ruins so it was likely not one of the planets they occupied."

2:59 PM

(Correct me if I'm wrong on that last part Neko, I'm not totally up to date on my Rawhani knowledge)

"Is it a focus of sorts? ..." Eisheru closes his eyes and pinches the bridge if his nose for a minute before opening then again and shaking his head, "My apologies, this new sight is rather disorienting."

"I have seen the forge, but I admit I have yet to use it so I am unsure exactly how it works. You will adjust to your new sense soon. I would form a gestalt to help now, but that would end my current one. The psychics within it would need to be physically present to establish a new one."

"I guess today is as good a day as any for discovery. The... atzmah that pulls me to this place is unlike any I have ever felt... I did not believe the Masters when they say that the energy could reach out to individuals"

3:46 PM

(do you speak merlon?)

(Yeah the forge is in the basement in the secret undercroft floor Charles found his second or third mission)

4:20 PM

(And you’re right reg

The lab doors grind open as valaria Perez, a human female of Spanish descent opens the main entrance. Her red facial tattoos catch the sunlight and her gentle almond eyes light up when they see headmaster regulus. “You’re back. I thought for sure you’d just abandoned me here with that shaman. Innovative but clumsy” she says, the smile never leaving her eyes or voice

5:07 PM

The doors themselves are massive. The size of a heavy mech each, and the facility is thickly walled. Automated defensive turrets on corner towers gently pan across the surround

(I dont think he knows Merlon. Just Ashen One and Slyth) "Yes, I appreciate you keeping him occupied though I do hope he has been helpful. Ah, miss Perez may I introduce Tidecaller Eisheru, a psychic of Greystar. We were hoping to visit the forge." (edited)

Eisheru bows to Ms. Perez and then extends a hand in greeting, "A pleasure to meet you, Miss Perez. How are you this fine day?" Eisheru is immediately brightened by the infectious attitude of Valaria and displays his own warm smile.

"Well, especially now with the both of you back. Well, I don't want to hold you here talking to me. I will have Mimir prepare the lift into the basement for you both"

"Excellent. We hope for a breakthrough as progress has been rather stagnant with the forge for some time. No fault of your own of course, I know you have many projects here that take up your time and this is a particularly obstinate one." Regulus leads the way in to the lift.

Eisheru says nothing but nods and smiles as he follows the Headmaster

The lift is a circular metal platform with railings that neatly rise from housings when the lift is engaged. It rattles and clanks gently, the gears waking up from likely months of standing still. The platform lowers, deep into the undercroft of the Rebith psionics research lab. A large metal arch, and security blast door stand before you. Slyth words representing duty, honor, and sacrifice are etched in the metal framework, the word for Duty glowing softly- the legacy of a previously solved puzzle lock. The slight scratches and dents on the door from Mr. Trivedi's earliest entry attempts have not been repaired or painted over, but rather memorialized with a small plaque on the wall mentioning them. Mimir, the AI guardian of this lab, and all UNW research facilities, opens the door for you.

9:24 PM

Inside, a simple, but large, stone forge, lovingly carried from Rawhani in one complete piece by a motivated House Draconis resistance movement The Psionic core recovered from Rawhani has been placed in the heart of a forge, once in the House Draconis holdings, but relocated here as the Knights work to build their new foothold here in Rebirth. Conductive Jaxtonite lines go from the furnace, to specially carved channels on the floor. The channels form a circle around an anvil, three channels in total, for three working anvils total. Currently, the forge is capable of using the energy in Psionic crystals for imbuement in other objects, and of awakening one partial psychic to a full psychic every two years. Level 0 and Level 1 Techniques can be imbued in objects. (edited)

9:26 PM

As Eisheru enters the room, he feels inexplicably drawn to the forge, the heart of the great furnace seeming to call out for him

Eisheru feels the thrum of power located behind the massive doors before he sees them. His eyes are pulled to look at the core of the forge. He swears he can hear his name being called from the core. "Kalahira..." he whispers. There is a force in the room that invites him to the great furnace. As his eyes finally adjust to his newest of his senses, he sees the multitude of colors emanating from the core like an unending font. Colors he had seen only in the depths of his watery homeworld and others he didn't know existed. Staring at the forge and slowly and ever so slightly walking towards the presence that calls him, "Master Fate... It is calling my name... Kalahira is that you?" he asks, beseeching the Goddess of his people.

If there is a godlike presence in the core, it isn't speaking to you with words. What you get instead is a roar. The roar of Terezinho's ocean pounding a storm wracked coast. Your senses dim, buried in the muted thunder of how a storm of that magnitude sounds below the waves. Your nose is filled with the salt-fresh smell of turbulent water, and the icy chill of rain. You are the undersea tectonic shift from the deepest part of the ocean, the force that makes the tsunami, the rising tide of water sweeping out to blanket whatever stands in its path with an unstoppable wall of force. Eisheru is hurled back from the forge, skidding 5m across the floor so violently that his boots leave scuffmarks across the stone pavers. The forge glows an icy blue for a long moment as the Merlon takes his feet, hands and arms dripping with water. The salt content, the temperature, even the color. So perfect. So much like home. And then after a moment, he realizes. It is the water of home

9:46 PM

(No effort available for the week, but Eisheru is awakened as a full psychic)

9:50 PM

The sounds and smells of storm are slow to leave this place and seem content to linger, but the last of the receding hurricane winds give way to a flap of paper , as a large, thick, and heavy looking leather bound tome flutters on the center anvil, pages constantly shifting

Regulus watches the whole process, taking diligent notes as he observes the MES energy and Eisheru's transformation. When the tome appears he abruptly stops and almost ignores Eisheru completely as he rushes over to pick up and inspect the book.

The books pages flare a golden green light and glyphs seem to rise from them, similarly to the godwalker when it casts its more mystical abilities. The letters are constantly shifting, detailing leylines, MES current alignment charts, incomprehensible star maps, and dozens of other complex concepts too fast to follow. The book flips to a new section, passing dozens of pages that seem to be filled but the writing obscured by some type of grey redaction. It seems the previous pages are filled in with techniques commonly in use already along with nullification and electro kinesis

10:24 PM

The rear of the book depicts a new type of casting, and details several complex rituals

10:26 PM

(A psychic can use this book once per game year to re-shuffle the distribution of their psychic skills, as long as the same number of sp are spent. You can also learn techniques you don’t know this way, as long as the points even out. As new things are discovered those pages will fill in but basically this is a collected log of all rediscovered psionic knowledge)

10:27 PM

(Does that sound right to you reg? We talked about this book like, over the summer. Now it’s cold out)

(Yeah, sounds good to me) Regulus pours over the book, talking more to himself than Eisheru, seemingly forgetting he is even there. "Incredible. It must have been a ritual similar to these that called out to the scream beast. I'll need to contact Robert soon and fill him in since he's supposedly searching for a new ritual to counteract or weaken the beast."

10:33 PM

He continues muttering to himself too quickly and quietly to be made out. (edited)

"... Home... How... How was that possible ..." he rises from the floor and wants to keep the water that drips off him and he wills the droplets into a small amorphous ball that captures the essence of his home in his mind. "That is... Unexpected..." he gently moves the liquid up and down, back and forth. "Headmaster, anything interesting in the book?" he says as he walks over, blob of water in tow. He looks around the forge to see if there is some sort of container he could place this water in. It was taking all of his effort to just keep a little bit of water afloat.

"Hmm? Oh yes, Tidecaller. Congratulations on your full awakening. This book contains some incredibly powerful information. Psychic rituals. A way to rewrite the learned paths in your brain that allow access to your disciplines." (Keep in mind you have 0 effort for a week, so if you don't have effortless TK you can't use it lol)

11:54 PM

"Ah, it seems you've developed an affinity for metapsionics, telekinesis, and biopsionics. Those happen to be my own specialties."

(oo i thought that was you no effort. Durr . Maybe let slide for purely sentimental rp reasons? Lol)

12:10 AM

"Rituals. Truly an amazing find. And yes, I need to learn to protect myself vif I wish to continue to be curious." he gives a wry smile. "And to train students of course..."

There are a few small glass bottles on wall shelves that seem like they should do the trick

Eisheru walks over grabs one of the glass bottles and gingerly guides the floating water blob into the container. He places the stopper onto the mouth of the bottle and walks back over to the Headmaster. "I take it much was learned about the forge that could help in the future?"

"Some, the greater find was this book. Unfortunately I do not control where Rebirth's resources go, our council votes on it. They always seem to find something else to research rather than the forge. Still, it was good for me to see it in action." Regulus finally closes the book, looking down at Eisheru, "You need to strengthen your metapsionics if you want to take students of your own. Unfortunately it seems your awakening has overtaxed you, if you push yourself right now you would torch. You need a week of rest before you train. You are free to rest here on Gudrun or you could spend your time resting in spike on your way home. Once able to train it should only take about a week to get you on the right path so that you could practice and learn on your own. Either Crane, Dr. Ahn, or myself could instruct you, I will let you choose."

"I am glad that some impromptu research could be undertaken. I feel as though I could barely lift my head after that experience. I will take it easy until I have had time enough to recuperate." Eisheru's shoulders sag with the effort of the day's experience. He looks weary, but happy "While I would love nothing more than to stay and train under you Headmaster, one of my brother Tidecallers has gone missing. It pains me that I have left him for this long and I must see to his safe return. I will be sure to check in with Miss. Crane to finish the instruction. If you could just point me in the direction of a starport so I can charter a ride back to Acastus, that would be most appreciated." Eisheru sags again, clearly the weariness setting in. "Thank you, Master Fate. I hope that I can continue the legacy that you have started." Eisheru bows again showing his reverence for the being that helped him in his most desperate times.

"Of course. It seems my help here was not needed, so we can return more quickly than we came." Regulus places a hand on your shoulder and you feel the familiar disorienting jolt of translocation as you suddenly find yourself in a bustling starport. "Welcome to the Trivedi Cloud, you should be able to find a ship here... A strange request. Might I have a small cut of your hair? This will allow me to contact you instantaneously regardless of distance."

This time Eisheru is almost too tired to react to the sudden change in position relative to the planet's gravity well "Thank you, Headmaster once again. And while you may feel you did not do anything, I could have have reached this point without your assistance." He looks around the busy starport, seeing the Trivedi logo and thinking of Mr. Collins. 'I hope you are doing well, Mr Collins.' he thinks idly "That is certainly a strange request, but not one that I will turn down." He pulls the knife from his survival kit with one hand and grabs a lock with the other. With a deft slice, the red hair is separated from his head and he hands it to Regulus. "Should you need my assistance with the matter to the south, you know where to find me. I look forward to welcoming you back to Acastus so you can see your legacy grow. Till we meet again, Master Fate." He gives one last generous bow in reverence to the master psychic before turning and heading towards a kiosk to charter a flight back to the eastern sector. (edited)

9:47 AM

(Thank you Reg, that was an awesome couple of scenes

Can't wait to delve into those rituals at some point with you and the other psychics :D)

(6xp, 10,000 credits)

10:14 AM

(To each of you)

(Thanks Eish! Glad to have another psychic buddy around! This plus my completed goal [academy branch in another polity] finally bump me to 11!)

11:18 AM

(HP 49 56, upped biopsi to 3) (edited)

(I'm looking to complete some endeavors if you've got any ideas. A Force one for psitech weaponry research and a Wealth one for reliable contracts outside of Central)

(Those are the ones you’re trying to complete? I think with you establishing some roots in Greystar we can say the contacts one is done)

(Ok, that finished out Wealth then and the other is the last Force one to complete)

The remnant was a vicious foe during the last human against humanity conflict the UNW fought. The surface of shariar is still home to a psychic research lab that although attacked, is still largely intact. The team that assaulted the base was more concerned with saving prisoners than collecting data , and its unknown what is left in the wake of the remnant confinement to a remote colony there

(Gotta wait a few days for the Pedagogue to get back lol) Regulus spends a few days in the academy, getting things set up and organized for the new branch to smoothly integrated into their system. He also checks in on the psychics staying there and at the Vapormills branch, making sure they have everything they need before he sets out again.

(Also putting in an order for a new ship, haven't had time to design it yet but I want it to start building lol)

(Alrighty. We can start it here and it’ll go out to however long it takes to build

8:46 PM

There have t been anymore psychic taros coming forward. Their treatment at this academy branch under yan when he was yan was poor and the influential family that provided the first student was repulsed by his attempts to court her daughter rather than instruct her in the use of her skills.

8:47 PM

The twin disaster of another student heading to Acastus and dying immediately effectively killed any further interest they had in contributing your the psychic arts.

Regulus spends his time there not trying to recruit, simply trying to begin repairing the academy's reputation there. (No specific RP to do with this yet, just wanting them to not hate or fear us and I'll come back to it eventually lol)

11:00 PM

(Maybe can do a publicity stunt with Dorlin as part of her campaign later)

(That makes sense )

7:25 AM

In the time you spend campaigning, the pedagogue returns for the remainder of your travels. You sense that things around Vapormills might be warming a bit at your personal investment of time

Once the Pedagogue returns Regulus gives the crew a day of rest before boarding and setting off for Shariar by way of Aslief.

Heading through aslief you see Robert has been here not long ago, and a data packet with the planets grievances has been sent to be distributed to the council. In short, they’re hoping for a stronger UNW and it’s factions presence on their world

We do need to focus more on our current core planets rather than on expansion... But defense, alliances, and exploration are just as important at this time. It's close proximity to Gudrun makes it a non ideal location for a strong academy presence, though we could send aid if needed. There is simply always too much to do... (Continuing on, I think this'll put me at 20/30 to change flawless mastery)

Shariar is quiet when you arrive, little being transmitted from the remnant settlement below, and no signals at all coming from the rest of the planet. The local space sphere is empty now with the absence of the mega shipyard and your vessel is the only one in the sky.

11:47 AM

A small UNW garrison exists , not far from the remnant expat colony

(Is the research lab he went to before abandoned now?)

(Yeah they abandoned it after the attack)

Regulus directs his captain to land just outside the bubble containing the abandoned research facility and then wait outside the corrosive atmosphere until called. (Is the dome still intact? We shattered part of it when we left but I dont know if they repaired it before abandoning)

(They did patch it but any serious impacts or someone really trying to make a problem here will ruin it. It’s just barely doing it’s job

Regulus enters the enclosed dome through one of its entryways, heading towards the facility. I wonder if Mordecia is still with Cyrus, wherever they are. He was quite inexperienced last we were here, but I admit his invisibility skill was quite useful.

The barracks remains leveled inside, small as it is, but the lab and support building remain intact, aside from the wall breach into the lab itself. The rubble has been cleared, but it looks like surviving Remnant were pulled from the area until the patch could be completed- and then never came back. Some of the equipment inside has suffered minor damage as the corrosive atmosphere bled in, but most of it looks operable

Regulus heads over towards the lab. Hopefully nothing vital is too damaged...

The computing equipment looks operable , but what the other equipment here might have been used for is hard to determine without some insight from the logs

Regulus reaches out to the computers with remote interface, hoping to access whatever database might have survived.

Nul metal technology was being worked on extensively here with stocks stolen from Terezinho, back when the remnant was in firm control of both planets. You can see with a quick glance that they devised an optimal air bursting mixture to stuff into artillery shells , flak rounds, and even shotgun pellets

7:52 PM

(They had artillery firing it over academies to prevent psychics from teleporting out and whatnot)

(Yeah the artillery we have though maybe not this mixture, Reg found shells and the device that makes them on T) Regulus downloads all information about this optimal mixture before seeing if any other projects remained. Shotguns that could stop their shaping and regeneration would be incredibly helpful. Flak rounds on starships should be more impactful as well against them, though perhaps less vital to space battle than with personnel.

(It’s wider area and longer coverage, the shotgun shells and flak rounds are brand new)

7:30 PM

There is information looted from the academy on Aslief as well as likely coerced from the tide caller temples on terezinho. There’s a project that’s been theorized called “anchor point station” (edited)

(Is the anchor point what they got from the academies or they have something separate? I have a couple questions to ask the database too if it allows searches) Ah, this anchor point could be quite useful. Perhaps we can look into that before our new ship is completed... Regulus downloads what preliminary research they have for it to send to Rebirth labs.

(It’s something they’re beginning to develop with information taken from both , but it’s very rough )

9:35 PM

(Something theyd have just started firmly theorizing about )

(Yeah I figured we'd be doing most of the research ourselves)

The theory is something akin to forming a concert of minds through linking to these anchor points, but in doing so the amount of effort needed isn’t either as high, or needed at all. It’s seems some researchers disagree with one another the further into the notes you get. Their margins are filled more with “correcting” each other’s work than testing their theories

6:39 AM

The notes end about the time of the raid on this facility

This will need quite a bit of work to be possible, hoping Val and her team can cooperate better than these researchers. Regulus searches on the database for any info on the other psychic prisoners of the remnant. Last we knew they were sent out against the shapers in nulmetanium ships... I know they are in all probability dead, but I can't help but hope.

The psychic prisoners here were all rescued during the raid, and out of the three known anti psychic ships made by the remnant, two of them were destroyed in battles against the UNW. The fate of the third is not known

No clues for that last ship... Likely destroyed. Well, what I've already found should prove quite valuable. Let's see if any of this is useful and we can be on our way. Regulus inspects the surrounding equipment, accessing the logs in an attempt to see what it is for and if any of it would.be useful to take.

(Program int for what’s left)

(11 with a +1 from Remote Interface)

The last known course of the psychic ship was heading west, away from shaper and UNW space, the records say nothing after that aside from the crew planned to scatter , along with the ships that refused to surrender at creusa

8:58 PM

(They didn’t all go west, but that one was planning to)

West... Perhaps that is where I shall travel next then. First though I must return to Gudrun. Seung and Billy need the new nulmetanium munitions and I'm quite intrigued by this theoretical anchorpoint. Please with what he has discovered, Regulus calls for his ship to pick him up.

(3xp, 5000 credits)

(So we'll follow this thread a bit and head west, looking for remnant and kind of heading towards Heras. Sumati-> Alcibiades-> Erdoza)

Sumati is the same as it was when you left but for the fact the mages report from the surface that the pool has run dry of its power. They will continue as bound by their oath to protect the site and make a home for psychics and mages here, as the academy continues to grow

9:10 AM

They are not sure if the pool can be rekindled in the future through natural or artificial means

Regulus sends a message back confirming their orders but doesn't bother to land to see for himself. I'm glad Robert was able to use it. And glad that this will no longer be such a desirable target for the fleshshapers or scream beast. (Force endeavor is complete too yeah? With the anti-psi weaponry discovered)

(It’s going to have to have some in character work done to deploy it en masse but you’ve got the basic info. It’s enough to complete it yeah)

(Yeah, I was going to send the schematics to Billy and Seung but we can work that out IC when he gets back to Gudrun)

10:02 PM

(Still working on switching FM, will be 30/30 reaching Erdoza)

Erdoza is a lone world surrounded by a dense asteroid field, made of rock and ice. The planet will have rings one day as the massive debris field solidifies into a proper orbit. The pilot immediately cuts engines as mines and defense satellites are pinged nested in the asteroid field, ensuring there is no safe approach to the planet

"Can we get any sense of what's below or is there too much interference? I may be able to get myself down unnoticed but I'd rather not go in blind with so many defenses present."

10:27 PM

(The Ped has survey sensor array if that would help here)

(Program int at +2

(9)

There is a semi clear approach to the planet but the world itself is too blocked by the floating debris. Weapon satellites and mines line the path. It will take expert flying to not strike one or drift into an engagement zone

"Captain, does any of this resemble remnant technology? They haven't deployed such defenses before to my knowledge but I would like to be more certain in my report. Regardless it seems best for us to leave navigating this to a more expert pilot..."

“It’s very old technology. Stuff the remnant would have had in mothballs when they were still the tenebrian empire even if it is. This reminds me of the very early setup of the Sol system defense grid, or at least what I remember seeing in holovid

5:51 AM

(By time this story takes place it would have been upgraded massively, and huge swathes of it would have been rapidly repaired or replaced after the battle of earth) (edited)

"I admit I'm intrigued. I won't risk your lives on my curiosity captain... So I shall go down alone. It should be easier to navigate the defenses myself than with the ship though I admit to have little experience with such things. I also still have Mr. Withers' teleportation to aid. Let us hope those below are merely cautious and not hostile as I will not have a quick means of escape with you stuck out here." Regulus stores a teleport as an instant action with Suspended Manifestation in case of emergency. Then he prepares to make his way to the planet surface alone.

7:34 AM

(I had planned on making Suspended Manifestation his new Flawless Mastery target but hadn't said it yet so I'll apply it after this, so 2 effort for that. Can teleport 1000km so hopefully that can make it a good way though the minefield. To make it through easier he'll just keep jumping till he makes it though, 1 effort each time)

(It would take two jumps to clear the innermost defenses and come up behind the defense grid)

(Yeah that's worth the 2 effort. Still need a check if I do that? I'd only be in the zone for around 6 seconds)

(no check needed if we're going through it this way, they wouldnt be able to confirm a target or even get a target lock in time)

9:57 AM

(It would probably look more like a malfunction)

(Sweet, yeah I'll spend the effort) Regulus exits the ship, giving the captain orders to hold their position outside of the defenses. He flies down as close as he safely can to the minefield before quickly teleporting twice in succession, traveling the vast distance in mere moments. If Mr. Withers bothered to train more I could have made it down directly to the planet in one jump... Perhaps I shall have to train myself instead.

1

10:02 AM

(5/9 effort, but still have an instant teleport left)

The world below shows the scars of war, though it does not appear war is here now. Fires burn on the land below, in the wilderness and away from urban centers.

12:09 PM

A rocket is being launched from one settlement, its payload of another defensive satellite wedged in the middle of two boosters

I'm not exactly the most inconspicuous person to meet a new people... But I might as well investigate the situation down there. Regulus begins descending towards the settlement that launched the rocket, aiming for a ways outside to inspect it hopefully before being detected.

(2 level's worth of SP just to get a bit further teleport range.... or I can spend SP on Expertise skills so I lose less money per month.)

The rocket is carrying another rod shooting defense satellite. It’s old tech, but reliable. Pelgason was forced to use similar until just a few months ago when the spike drive changed their way of life forever

7:25 PM

It’s heading for a new looking constellation of defense works in high orbit, joining a network of twelve other satellites and detection pods

Billy will likely be interested in this planet. War torn world capable of space travel but not yet spike. It seems there's no fighting currently, but those fires could cause a problem depending on the natural state of the environment here. Perhaps I can get permission to bring my ship through so we can get a thorough scan. Regulus continues on towards the settlement that launched the rocket.

From space you can see the web of light characteristic of a small city and its surrounding rings of suburbs and farms. You’re too far away to see air defenses

Regulus heads to the outskirts of town, hoping to avoid any defenses and get an idea of the city and its people before entering.

You land well outside the air defense zone after ten minutes of flight and atmospheric re entry. The settlement that launched the rocket is similar to the sprawl of acastus, in the sense that the city has a scattered sense of identity. Tall buildings backlit by searchlights stand at its core, while rings of increasingly decrepit apartment buildings spiral out from it

8:20 PM

Many of the buildings have large emblems and writing on them but they’re hard to make out from this far away

I really need to invest in a drone or something for scouting... I don't want to cause a panic or have them decide to shoot on sight. At least I'm only seven feet tall instead of twenty four. With all of the defenses and recent signs of war they are sure to be wary at best. Regulus sends out a message, hopefully to be received by whoever is in charge of the city.

Greetings. My name is Regulus Fate and I am a visitor from the stars. I come in peace with hopes of conversation and friendship. I offer aid and in time, trade and technology. In return I only ask peaceful entry to your city and to learn more about your people.

The reply to your message is either too low tech to be received, or not coming at all. The distant city does not seem to react to it, aside from some sort of small aircraft lifting off from the roof of one of the taller buildings

Regulus sighs and begins walking towards the city, as inconspicuous and peaceful looking as a 7ft glowing magical mech can be. Let us at least hope they were not warring with a hostile robot force like Asta...

The small flashing lights of the aircraft begin to get closer. It’s still dozens of kilometers out, but a small searchlight begins to flicker on, and pan the darkness, searching for the source of the transmission

Regulus rises off the ground hands clasped behind him, levitating up to match the aircraft's altitude but still keeping his distance from the city. The calm blue glow emitting from his body intensifies slightly, growing brighter so that he stands out amidst the dark. One ship is promising... If they wished to attack they'd send a fleet. Unless they are merely unwise, but given the war torn state of their planet I suspect not in this case.

The spotlight drifts over you as you levitate and now glow , and some sort of crackling public address system is being warmed up. “Unidentified object. State your intentions or you will be fired upon”

4:39 PM

The helicopter hovers gently bobbing in the otherwise still night air

Regulus raises a hand in greetings, "Diplomacy. Information. Perhaps even friendship. Was my previous message received? I hail from a planet in a neighboring sector on a journey of exploration and information seeking."

“We had no way to reply. Follow us. We will speak somewhere face to face”

6:55 PM

The helicopters light and speaker shuts off. It banks right, and begins turning around back toward the city

Regulus nods his ascent and follows the helicopter back towards the city.

You meet on the roof of a black skyscraper , it’s lit windows reflecting back inside, like panels of gold. Dozens of armed guards patrol the roof and grounds, and the double doors open to allow you inside. The helicopter likewise lands and it four occupants emerge. Two have business suits on, with the pilot and a gunner additional

Unconcerned with the amount of guards Regulus gives a shallow bow to the two in suits before following them inside the tower. "Thank you for meeting with me. I am Regulus Fate and I am most curious about your planet and your people."

“Please follow us inside uh...Mr? Fate. Your message was well received and thankfully by the right group of people”

Regulus follows them inside, "Ah, well then who is this right group? And perhaps more importantly who is the wrong?"

“This worlds Governor is corrupt. He is banning anyone from leaving, and destroyed all our ships on the ground. We are trying to overthrow him, but even if we do , we still can’t get past the blockade”

7:10 PM

“We , here at corporate, are hoping to replace him with someone more amenable to offworld business and trade”

"Hmm.. and you think your corporation could run the planet better? I know of a planet currently under the control of corporations just as corrupt and controlling as a governor could be. Does your governor give reasons for his actions?"

“Maybe not better, but free. The governor believes the planet went to hell when we let off world psychics come in and set up here. Then that mess happened a few years ago. He decided this all happened because of immigrants and has been rounding them all up. We love immigrants here. Mostly because they work for fewer wages”

"Ah I see. Well you might have presumed by now but I am one such off world psychic. And though I do not approve of corporate governance it does seem like a change in leadership could benefit your people. Trade and outside contact alone would boost your economy, technology, and people's quality of life. And psychic intolerance and persecution is something I am loathe to ignore. Is there any way to resolve this peacefully? I am no assassin though I can fight when needed."

“Maybe from a new voice” he shrugs. “How would you explain...” he motions up and down, at your metallic , psychically infused body

"Mmm... I generally find honesty to work best, assuming he would allow me an audience. Does he reside in this city?"

“You’d need to head to the polar zone to the north. It’s a heavily defended ice shelf, almost impossible to make a run at”

"Well being a psychic does have certain advantages. I have little doubt I could gain access, but doing so in a way conducive to talking is more tricky. I assume you have means of communicating with them? That would at the very least allow me an idea of whether an audience is possible or if I must resort to... other means."

“We do. We can set you up with a communication link. We do like to threaten each other over it time to time”

Regulus gives a forced chuckle at the joke, "That would be appreciated if you wouldn't mind. If he will not entertain a peaceful meeting then I shall have to resort to options they will find less pleasant..."

You're brought up to the top floor of the building where an elaborate comms terminal, the video screen occupies almost the entire east wall of the main room. The furniture is all elegant, this looks to be a hybrid between a high end apartment and office space.

Regulus takes in the room, standing in front of the screen, hands clasped behind his back. "I am ready when you are gentlemen."

There is a crackle as the screen goes from a dense black to a standby blue, and then a wash of ant like static as the image resolves. A man is sitting behind a desk, at the indeterminate point between late middle age and elderly. He takes care of himself and it is evident from the grainy video even. “President San-Boccine, I see you’ve decided to send someone else to threaten me today. I’m waiting”

"No threats today governor, I am Regulus Fate. I come from offworld, which I have come to understand is something you mistrust. I represent a rather large governing body known as the United Nation of Worlds, seeking trade, alliances, and information of our surrounding sectors. I merely wish for fruitful, peaceful discussion concerning your planet and the future of your people."

He sighs heavily and tips his chair back from the desk. “I must ask about your...appearance. What are you? Some kind of diplomacy AI?”

"Mmm... I was once human. That body was destroyed and my mind and soul bound to this vessel with metadimensional energy."

“Did this happen against your will?”

"My body being destroyed, yes. The ability to continue my work in this new form was one I consented to. To my knowledge I am the only one of my kind, the remainder of my polity are a variety of living races, including human."

“And can you do anything that others would consider...unnatural? As the only one of your kind. I’m simply trying to understand who I am negotiating with”

"I am a psychic, if that is something you consider unnatural. I also have some small talent with the arcane. Neither are unique to me nor do they affect my ability to negotiate. As one of the few survivors of the unfortunate event a few years ago I understand the fear many feel towards us. I have rather intimate knowledge of what instigated that event as well as information concerning the creature who caused it. Isolation begets ignorance. Your defenses mean little to those who would mean you harm, information and allies are your best means of survival in what is to come."

This seems to give Him pause. “If you’re permitted to travel here safely, would we be able to discuss these threats and the inadequacy of this planets defenses face to face?”

Regulus gives a shallow bow, "Yes, that would be most helpful I think. Would you permit my personal ship passage through said defenses? Otherwise it would take me some time to travel."

“I am comfortable with a wait. Proceed at your leisure” A ship he didn’t detect or have knowledge of has him sweating and you can see he is unnerved

"As you wish. We shall meet again soon." Regulus ends the transmission and turns to San-Boccine, "If he does not mind the wait, would you allow me a quiet space to rest and meditate for some time? I would prefer to be in top condition in case the governor is less trustworthy than I hope. And also a shuttle for transportation would be appreciated."

7:40 PM

(Just want to recoup the effort spent on teleporting in case he has to fight his way out)

“Of course. We have an executive lounge that’s empty now. I’m not sure if you eat or drink but if you do there’s plenty of@both inside. Please stay as long as you like. You’re already accomplishing far more than we could have

Regulus retreats to the lounge and spends some time resting and meditating on his task to come. I can only hope the governor will be receptive of what I have to say. This could easily be a way to entrap me to keep me from aiding his rivals. I believe we can work something out that benefits all if he will only listen... Regulus leaves the lounge some time later, ready for his journey. He finds a nearby guard if the president is no longer around, "Is the shuttle prepared? I wish to leave as soon as possible."

“The plane is ready. You’ve been given a clear transit corridor for the flight, and I expect more will be known when you get there”

"Your aid is appreciated, I will do what I can for your people." Regulus heads out to where he first landed on the tower and boards the waiting plane, settling in a little awkwardly with his bulk. "Ready when you are pilot. Let us be on our way."

The pilot nods and over the next few minutes finishes checks and takes off. He’s quiet and is focused mostly on some weather forming off to the left of the aircraft still hundreds of miles away.

9:53 PM

“Picked quite a time to come” he says after about ten minutes of flight

Regulus looks up from the book he had pulled out, "Hmm? Is that weather something to be concerned about?"

“No no. Not the weather. I’m just really hoping you can do something to end the blockade. The governor is so worried about keeping us isolated. I just don’t think this planet can support us long term. Especially now”

"Ah yes. This is a bad time to be alone in such a dangerous galaxy, your ignorance unfortunately will not keep foes from your doorstep. From what I can see your people are in need of healing. You need peace to recover from recent war. I am not sure peace is something I can offer, but external resources can certainly speed up your recovery and strengthen your defenses if they become necessary."

“Not for me to accept but I hope whatever happens things get better here.”’ The plane enters a diving roll, as the weather begins spreading out above you and in the midst of a howling snowstorm the plane touches down and is taxied to a small hangar where the doors are shut behind it. Heat runs from a rattling unit in the ceiling and ice and snow run in sheets down the planes wings, forming puddles under the concentrations of dripping streams. So far no one has come to claim or collect you

"Hmmm... This could easily be an ambush, best you leave me here and be on your way." Regulus stores a Force Puppetry using Suspended Manifestation and then turns on Energy Sensitivity to look for any hidden electrical signals that could indicate an incoming attack. "I shall do my best for your people, let us hope your governor shall do the same." Regulus exits the plane and looks around for an exit.

There are the normal sensors and heating systems you’d expect to be part of a building like this, but outside the area is quiet and sleepy. The storm continues to howl and rage

(Is there a connecting building or does he have to go outside to reach their base or whatever?)

(Youd habe to go outside

Regulus exits the hangar, a kinetic pressure field keeping the cold and the storm at bay while his eyes glow slightly as he peers through the snow, looking for other buildings. (Eyes of Argus let him see normally in all conditions if the snow would normally obscure stuff too much)

There is a very large octagonal building 50m away across the runway that makes a black backdrop against the swirling snow. It is crowned in blinking red aircraft hazard lights. You can see searchlights and anti air guns on the ceiling but in these conditions it doesn’t appear anyone is up there. A set of thick doors protected by a pillbox on each side seems to be the only way of getting in conventionally. Storm shutters are down over the many windows.

7:30 PM

Other hangars and barracks buildings are lined up orderly. A helipad has been converted into a launch site for small rockets at the end of the complex, at its far southeastern end

Regulus heads over to the thick doors, checking for guards in the pillboxes before pounding firmly on the doors.

There is a groan as large motors begin to turn and cycle, the doors opening slightly, enough for you to enter. A spear of golden light briefly illuminates the night, for a moment, and you feel a wash of heat from within

7:36 PM

the inside of the entry room, the stone is whitewashed and brilliantly polished. A pair of guard robots, about your size but more martial Vanguard patterns, come to attention in front of an inner portal door

Regulus nods politely to the robots before proceeding through the inner door. If we can establish friendly trade here I'm sure Mr. Rigers would like a look at these variant warbots.

The bots do not move as you approach, and the door opens to a wide central chamber that is perfectly climate controlled to an even 68 degrees F. Wires and conduits are neatly draped from the ceiling in neat rows, far more organized than any youve seen before. A handful of humans have their backs to you, all looking at dozens of monitors, flickering between different v

7:51 PM

iews of space around the planet

Regulus walks up behind them and looks at the monitors, "Ah, have you still not found my ship? I asked my captain to keep it out of range of your satellites. I won't risk bringing it down without your permission however, though I know a few pilots who could make the trip through quite easily."

“You’re a strange thing to arrive on this world, at the time you have” a voice says from the pack of staring people. None of them have turned around but you recognize the back of the governors head from the video call

"You are the second I've heard comment on the timing of my arrival. What is significant about this time?"

This time the governor does turn around. “Three years ago from this very day I began my psychic exclusion policy, as our world tried to come to grips with the tremendous damage done to it. We didn’t kill them, those that kept their minds at least. There weren’t many. A dozen maybe. Less now. But we did find better uses for them. Their leader, Henrius Zange... he told me I’d have hell to pay for what I set into motion. “

9:44 PM

“Now a...whatever you are. A golem? Perhaps? Shows up on the same very day, bringing word of threats and bringing an upset to the balance I have created here”

"Balance? I saw a world on fire, fresh from the throes of war. Primitive defenses and a suppressed people. The foes that will set upon you care not for whatever balance you have managed to craft, they consume worlds whole and your people will be used as fuel and building materials for their monstrosities. Systems go dark one by one to the north of us. A fragile alliance forged by desperation holds the line, dancing on a knife's edge, praying to their gods that we can last just one day more. If we fail your world will be consumed without a hope of resistance. Open your world once more to those beyond and through trade and negotiation reclaim what you lost to the event you speak of. Bolster your existing defenses and more importantly build a defensive fleet to combat these evil shapers of flesh. Because your people deserve hope. We have successfully defended again incursions. I am not asking for aid in taking the fight to them, only that you do what is right for you and your people. I have a voice on our council and will speak for you there, we have gifted engineers and ship builders and many worlds with which to trade--even, if you prove friendly enough, the ability to create spike drives. All I ask in return is that you open your world and remove your prejudices against my kind."

3

He thinks for a moment. “I propose a trade. Flesh and metal. You harvest our psychic citizens. Remove this scourge from our world and do with them what you will. Those we have would be children now. Young ones. In return, we receive the knowledge and tools to make these defenses, ships, and spike drives”

7:36 AM

His face grows dark when thinking about his psychic citizens

Regulus suppresses a bubbling anger and replies calmly, "I will gladly take your psychic residents with me, though I cannot grant spike travel without approval of the council. You mentioned you found uses for the surviving psychics. What has happened to them?"

He sits and his shoulders sag. With the push of a few buttons the viewscreen goes live. Their brains have been stripped from them along with whatever nerve tissue could be salvaged , and forced into a concert of minds they now man various parts of the defense grid in a nerve stripped state. They’d be mere flickers , wind blown candles, to meta psionic senses, and with such a vast defense network it’s easy to see how they could have been missed (edited)

Without moving or giving any indication of doing anything, Regulus uses his stored Force Puppetty amplified by Surge Momentum on the governor. (Mental save at a -4, if he has less than 5 hit die he fails automatically. If he somehow saves roll again with the same penalty cause the first one is used as an on turn action due to Suspended Manifestation)

(He only has 2 hit dice. Is he dead?) (edited)

(As a Main Action, the telekinetic can Commit Effort for the day to suborn a visible target’s mobility, whether robotic, vehicular, or human, provided it’s no larger than a ground car. A sapient victim can make a Mental saving throw to resist the psychic onslaught; on a failure, they lose control of their physical actions. If not piloted by the telekinetic, the target remains motionless or continues on its current direction of travel. If the telekinetic spends a Main Action to control them, they can be made to perform any physical action that is not directly suicidal, using the psychic’s skill levels and hit bonus for any attacks or skill checks they might make. The puppetry lasts until the end of the scene, until the target leaves the psychic’s sight, or until a sapient target believes that their action or inaction is about to get them killed. The psychic’s control is fine enough to achieve even very delicate physical motions, but it is not good enough to control the target’s speech, though it can keep them silent.)

(Well, it works!)

Regulus turns and begins walking towards the door leading to outside. "Walk with me governor." He forces the governor to follow, walking naturally and keeping him silent to avoid causing alarm. They walk together past the robot guards and out into the raging blizzard and a short ways further so the storm blocks anyone from seeing them, Regulus slowly growing in size as they walk. Regulus turns and faces the governor, towering over him, protected from the elements by his kinetic shield while the governor faces the full brunt of the cold and wind. Body still frozen, Regulus releases the hold on his mouth and voice, allowing him to respond. "Psychics are people just like you governor. Some are kind, others cruel. Some intelligent, others dullards. When one is met with respect and courtesy you can expect to be treated in like. Treat them with fear and hatred and you shall earn their ire. I may not look it, but I am a man governor. Even men of great compassion and peace have their breaking point. And you have just found mine. Do you have anything to say for yourself?"

He is either too terrified or too mind weakened by the psychic puppetry to say much or anything. His eyes are wide and the corners ringed with ice where tears have frozen solid.

Regulus extends his Pressure Field to protect the governor as well so he doesn't die from exposure. (3/9 effort expended) "You asked earlier what makes me unique. I have a collection of spells learned from a well of unimaginable power, ones I use sparingly and with great hesitation. There is one I have dared not use as of yet, and though it goes against my nature to use it even on one such as you, I believe it the best course for your people." Regulus kneels, telekinetically lifting the governor's body off the ground to eye level. A large metal finger lightly touches the governor's forehead. And begins to draw. A brilliant emerald light follows his finger as he draws a complex series of runes, each one sinking into the skin before he begins the next, his normal blue glow changing to match the green of the symbols. (Mental save for him, cant force a penalty cause it's a spell but I'll cast it up to 5 times if he fails since he cant resist currently)

(5v14, fails)

The governor's and Regulus's eyes both flash emerald as the spell takes effect. Regulus lowers him back to the ground, though still binding his body tightly. "You will never take hostile action against a psychic again, nor order another to do so. Neither will you preach fear nor hatred of them. All current psychics present on this world will be placed in my custody and the... inhumane gestalt dismantled. You will govern to the best of your ability, placing the people's needs ahead of your own. You will not accept bribes nor give advantages to those who do injustice. You will open the borders of your world and allow trade with those who are not hostile to you. You will not speak of this discussion, nor mention any hints of my unique abilities. And above all you will treat others with kindness." Regulus releases his kinetic hold on the governor and begins walking back towards the complex, shrinking down to a manageable size once again. "You have much to do governor, I suggest you begin."

He nods, eyes still gassy. They have a distant quality to them. He begins typing orders into an archaic pattern of compad and simply walks back into the building. (6xp, 10,000 credits. Not sure how much of a fast forward you want here)

(Does he have any young psychics right now or did he just mean future ones that develop over time?)

(There would be young children in the city population centers. Metapsychics would be needed for finding them)

(Ok, so they're not identified or grouped together or anything. ~~Can Reg do a preliminary sweep of that first city he landed in? With the governor and corporation helping organize it?~~) (edited)

(Actually I'm good to make the jump to Heras, he'll send someone to "harvest" later)

(Works for me. We can do that. )

10:13 AM

(7 days of spike

10:16 AM

Heras orbital defenses bracket and hail the ship as soon as it hits the edge of system space. The heavy frigate assigned to system defense force races out to intercept, its guns live but not yet firing

Regulus opens the comms, "This is Regulus Fate of the UNW here on a diplomatic and informational mission requesting a meeting with Regent Cole."

“Regent Cole is no longer among the living.” The link is quiet after that, as they wait for a reaction

So soon after losing Cyrus? What kind of planet have they landed on... "... I am sorry for your loss. Is there a new leader for me to meet with? I am both curious and concerned at your rapid loss of leadership and wish to be of aid if possible."

“Prodian Ferriman is regent elect now, dock with the civilian orbital and you’ll be met by security staff. He will be informed of your arrival. You’re to come unarmed”

Ah yes... I had not received this form before they split off. I hope that causes no alarm. "I will be unarmed. I was a friend to Regent Adonis and knew his wife before they died, I wish to pay my respects and offer help if needed." Regulus tells his captain to follow their directions.

(Completed a Cunning endeavor: Discover a new world or make contact with a new group first)

(updated!)

1

4:23 PM

(grupps character sheet is back out, we can pop into the chaos of next months meeting)

(Sounds good!)