Iron Stars - valentina

The Voice of Hermes returns to Heras after a long week and a half in spike travel. Your last sight of watching the Trireme break in half from the concentrated fire of two Brothers of Fenris ships plays out again and again in your mind. The ship jumped away before it could confirm the launch of lifeboats from the Trireme ,but surely anyone who made it to the surface was devoured by the underhill swarm living there. In any case, the choice between escape, or be boarded by Brotherhood kill teams was an easy one to make. At a possibly great Karmic cost, the Voice of Hermes arrives home, and after clearing and declaring themselves with the two Peerless class stations watching over the planet, it is finally allowed to dock. Acting Regent Podron Ferriman plans to distribute the news of their passing in the news bulletin scheduled for next week. For the moment, he requests a meeting with you, about something else entirely

2

Valentina breathes in the port's air, after the journey, and ponders if life on terra firma is any more reassuring than the artificial gravity of space flight? Dismissing the though, she turns her attention to her compad and the message that has arrived. Not knowing quite why Ferriman would wish to talk to her, and a little wary of the prospect, she heads off to find his office.

After going through the normal procedure to disembark and secure passage down to the city of Mytikas via cargo lighter, you're brought to the landing field outside the city. There aren't many vehicles in Mytikas, but a cottage industry of small hand pulled carts is beginning to blossom as the wood to make carriages and wheels begins coming into town. Somewhere between a utility cart and a rickshaw, this vehicle pulled by a set of twin boys brings you to the Myrmidon camp, temporarily serving as the headquarters of the protectorate. The ruins of the former Temple of Ares still smolder and smoke

Valentina would examine the state of the camp, assessing it's potential strengths and weaknesses. She would then ask the nearest passer by, "Could you please direct me to the Regent Podron Ferriman?"

You’re brought to the central bunker in the complex where two myrmidon guards in power armor ensure you have an appointment before allowing you to enter. The acting regent is painfully average in every sense of the word and he beckons for you to sit as soon as you make your way into the room set aside as his office.

6:49 AM

“I’m glad your ship and your crew made it back safely.”

Valentina sits, saying as she does, "As am I, although I'm sorry to report that the remainder of the fleet didn't seem to be faring too well as we left, we may not see them again. And what is it you wished to see me about?"

“I feared as much. I have an opportunity for you, and one that helps the Protectorate as well. It’s abundantly clear , based on looking at our stellar neighbors, that we are lacking in many things. Notably, we have no idea about the planets around us, and we may be missing out on the trade and political alliances needed to really make the protectorate something more”

7:05 PM

“Most of the city is barely anything more than the ruins we inhabited when we first settled here. Resources are still scarce. Manufacturing is almost non existent. Holdings, opening markets , and trade on other worlds will I think give us the jump start we need”

"I think trade with out neighbours is something we should encourage as much as possible, if we can bring in finished goods that we need, that will hopefully give the economy the head start it needs! How might I be of assistance to these aims?"

“You got the voice of Hermès out of a tough situation. You brought it home in one piece , and the crew trusts you. You currently captain one of two spaceships we even own, and the only one capable of carrying meaningful cargo “

"Thanks, it was a close one, but here we sit, have you a specific cargo in mind, or shall we focus on gatherings as much quantity as possible and bringing it onto planet? Also, what can you tell me of the current resources on the planet, have we something to sell and offset the cost?"

“Common ingots and colonial materials are the only things coming in right now. We have only managed a few expeditions and most of which have ended ... You saw it yourself in space. I’m not above just taking what we need from some of these planets. Eli and Pearl had luck doing just that on a lower technology world nearby”

7:42 PM

“I’ll let you decide the method, but you’ll have our official backing as long as the goods and influence flows”

"Thank you, have we materials or finished produce left to fly out and sell, or will an exchange of credits be the preferred method?"

“Radji, the planet to our immediate south used cloth currency like old earth dollars. A young adventurer named Eli is sitting on several million in their currency right now. He might be a good person to look up. If you tell him what it’s for, I’m sure he could be persuaded to part with some of it

"Very well, let's see if we can turn this to our advantage, how might I contact this young Eli?"

(He’s a PC, we can tag him when you’re sending the message so he can reply , but we can say the regent gives you his frequency or comm number so you two can hash it out and he can tell you how the planet was )

8:03 PM

“I have his information here. There we go. Now you have it too. He’s a good man. “

"Thanks, I'll be in contact with him, and let you know how we get on." Valentina goes to leave, and reaches into her pocket for a compad. (edited)

8:05 PM

@Rodger Landon (Corn) "Valentina to Eli, are you receiving me, over?"

(So our comms work that far?)

(You’re hardly away from the city eli)

1

"Hello this is Eli, receiving you loud and clear, over"

"Afternoon, wonder if we can meet up, I've a business venture to discuss with you, to see if we can get this confounded economy rolling before the next scream."

"Sorry I'm on a scouting mission right now, but I wouldn't be opposed to it, is this about the bar?"

"The bar? No, not as far as I know, I command the Voice of Hermes, I've been instructed to sort out our trade infrastructure, and to do that I'm going to need to buy up some produce. Apparently you have an excess of Radjian currency and they may have goods to sell to me, which would go some way to starting our trading venture."

"Hmm, if you're going there anyway would you be opposed to looking into some things? You said you're buying produce anyway right?"

"I am, what do you need?"

"Well if you could buy some spirits for the bar I'd appreciate it, also do you know how much of the money you'd need. I thought since they're doing something at the lab with spaceflight maybe we could fund them and sort of outsource or ship building a bit to conserve resources. Getting a larger trade fleet couldn't hurt and it'd probably help with goodwill. I'll leave the funds to be used at your discretion as I don't want to undermine your command, but at the very least I'd like some of the produce and things earmarked for the bar if there is a surplus. You should be aware though the funds weren't exactly acquired legally. We stole an armored car. Just don't want you to be surprised in the field."

"Ok, we'll see what we can pick up, and it's interesting that they're working on spaceship production. I'll bear the questionable legality in mind, although I'm sure under the correct circumstances, all should be well. I'll come and pick up the currency before I leave, when do you expect to be back from your scouting mission?"

"Hmm I'm not sure we're supposed to scout all the way the Haephestae. You have my permission to use the funds, also be careful mentioning the space flight, it's supposed to be a secret project. I kind of listened in on a radio transmission. There was a helpful female bartender that told us about the armored car, and we bought resources from the lab. I think that's about it. If you happen to find any butterscotches or soak tanks I'd appreciate it. Sorry I know that's a lot to ask but it was quite a bit of money like a giant palate of money, well it's yours now. Be safe out there."

"This could be more fun than I'd bargained for," Valentina mutters under her breath, "Thanks for your help, and the funds, as ill gotten as they may be, see you when I get back with any luck!" Valentina heads off to find the giant palette of money, and gives directions to her crew to have a cargo lighter sent over to collect the cash.

The cash is brought out from the myrmidon camp and transported under guard to the edge of the city where the cargo lighter is waiting to take it to orbit. (The voice has atmospheric operations and when you go other places can directly land)

6:37 PM

An hour later the notification appears that the funds are secured in the hold

Valentina sends a confirmation message to Eli and Podron Ferriman, "I wish you both well, and hope to see you in a week or so" She ensures the crew are gathered and the ship is stocked and fueled, and with that will head up on a lighter to the Voice of Hermes

The Hermès is prepared as you make your way to the platform. Deck crew scramble to get the last of the fueling lines and mooring cables prepared for release. Most are making their way to the special bunkers and storage lockdowns, so they’re in place when the hangar doors open. The crew seems to all be aboard and locking their own possessions down for the trip

"Afternoon All, we're headed out to Radji, in order to begin trade relations, anyone any objections?"

9:16 PM

"Good, Lucius, check we're clear with the tower and Isabelle, take us out."

(two days of downtime for the trip if you want to put it toward anything)

(I'll spend time practicing oratory to up my talk skill, is it 90 days for a skill?)

(yeah just to get it to 0 if you're at a -1, beyond that, you need skill points)

(Ok, in which case, I'll grab administer, as I'll be picking up lead with a focus next level anyway, and I suspect that will be in less than 90 downtime days time, so Administer 2/90 as Valentina goes over the ships books)

The planet of Radjid is largely unaware of their stellar neighbors and during the last mission here, Pearl and Eli took great pains to hide their ship and blend in during scouting missions. The world is focusing on rocketry and trying to regain some sort of idea of what is happening in space, but the attitudes of the wider world government toward outsiders has not been determined.

8:46 AM

The last scouts were unwilling to test things with support so far away. Former Tenebrian Empire and Black Sun surveyors agree that this world was formally about tech level 3, with it rapidly approaching early 4.

8:46 AM

Still, they have many conveniences and materials here that Heras could find useful

"Lucius, can you make contact with the world government, I suppose we should have a conversation with them before we park a space ship on their front doorstep"

All space sensing dishes on the planet below, in all its cities begin to line up on the signal and after a half hour of cleaning the signal and bouncing between different relays, your comms officer is able to make a connection. “Online with one of their intelligence agents. He states they’ve got the leadership gathered to hear us, but we will be speaking directly with him”

"Sounds like a welcome party!" "This is Valentina Spiros, Captian of the Voice of Hermes, and member of the Elysium Protectorate, we have come to trade and to sample your culture, if that is something you would be interested in."

"Captain of the Voice of Hermes. What planet do you come from?" the agent asks, seeming to ignore the rest of the statement for a moment. You hear chairs scraping in the background on his end, and some whispered voices

"Our last port of call was Heras, ever had any dealings with them?" (edited)

"We know of the world, but have not, even before the disaster. The Khans never seemed to be in step with how we were regarded. You being out here, with a ship none the less , is something we never expected to see"

11:57 AM

"If we provide you coordinates for a secluded landing site, can you get to the planet surface unnoticed? News from the outside....that there is an outside....it would set the population into a panic we aren't prepared to deal with"

"Very well, we're looking to trade so we'll quite happily set down where you point us, if you can give us a detailed map of population centres, we should be able to avoid most of them as we come in"

"Lucius, can we perform a survey scan as we come in, I don't want any surprises on first contact, a spike capable ship may be to large a prize for them to resist"

(Program/int, at +2 for the survey sensor array)

12:37 PM

(you can roll it if youve got the skills, if you dont, he can do it, making it a total 2d6+4)

(I'll roll it under mine please)

(go for it!)

(5, I rolled triple ones, a great start for Valentina)

The population centers show up cleanly, any additional details or hidden defenses do not register a return. The landing zone looks to be deep in the southern desert, in a spot in the middle of the settlements on the eastern side of the continent, hundreds of kilometers away from anything that might be considered a commonly used path of travel

12:43 PM

12:43 PM

(not my map, but as you learn more ill edit some names and fix it up)

"Ok, we've got a landing zone, let's bring it in, as quietly as possible and see what this place has to offer"

The craft skims over the desert in a controlled and thought out landing, kicking up swirling sand as it crunches into the soft ground. The scanners detect several aircraft departing the city nearest the inland bay, and they're expected to be here in fifteen minutes. They are moving too slow to be fast attack planes

"Thallia, shall you and I head out, and form a welcome party, everyone else, please keep and eye on the scanners and be ready to leave if need be, hopefully it won't be necessary, but it may be."

9:23 AM

Valentina heads out, mag pistol on her belt, but no other armaments

Six fat bodied helicopters make their way out to your landing zone, kicking up miniature sandstorms as they set down in a circle around your free merchant. Only one of them is armed and has security deploying from it when its ramp comes down. A black suited individual, already uncomfortable in the desert heat, waves a hand in greeting as the engines shut down

Valentina Waves back, and walks forward to meet the individual "Good afternoon, I am Valentina Spiros of the Voice of Hermes, pleased to meet you and who might you be?" (edited)

“I’m a representative of the government here. I’m authorized to make deals with you and to help facilitate trade. You stated you came for that purpose. Do you have goods aboard?”

(How many other people are stood around the area, and have all the helicopters continued hovering, or have they flown off?) "Pleased to meet you, we have a few trade goods, but not quite knowing what you might have need of, I took the liberty of purchasing some of your local currency that had been acquired by a trader I met, who had been here some time ago, I thought that being able to use the local currency in trade, certainly for our initial exchanges of goods, would be a nice touch. Once we begin trading regularly of course, I would recommend that we begin to use a currency that we refer to as credits, which is widely accepted amongst interstellar traders, and so would give you something far more concrete to offer to those that may visit in the future. Space is a big place, and your planet has been getting noticed from afar, I suspect we will be far from the last traders to come here."

(They’re all landed. There’s just the agent and a few security right now but they’re not doing anything suspicious)

(Good to know, thanks) (edited)

“There hasn’t been a trade here in years. That must be some old money. Well we asked what you’ve got aboard. I’m trying to get an offer together if you have something we need”

(Would we have a selection of small samples of trade goods aboard?)

(I’d say so since you had planned this but no major tonnage)

(Superb) "We have sample of raw materials, such as metals and minerals, some foodstuffs, a selection of medical supplies and a few arms. We were hoping that our first trade could be to purchase from you, so that we haven't wasted a trip, and then when we know what you might want, we can bring goods back to you to sell, that is of course assuming you have something to offer us?"

"Of course. We have strong manufacturing in household goods, food (metawheat, per Suns of Gold) , projectile weapons, and Colonial Materials (building supplies)

"Wonderful, how much would 60 tonnes of the building materials set me back?"

(EP never did any far trading this month, we can make that roll now. Friction here would be 3)

(Sure, 3d6? And am I allowed to decline the purchase once I know the cost?)

(You are, but further deals add 1 friction. 3d6 please )

(16)

(Expertise is 1, so that makes the buy +100% of cost per ton, base price of 2k per ton) "that brings us to the modest sum of 240,000 dollars, for the sixty tons of goods. A world in recovery like yours surely could use the materials"

1:23 PM

"We would also like to arrange a purchase with you, if you're willing. You've mentioned moving to this credit system, and we are able, but would need some sort of mentorship or guidance on the matter here. "

(I have around $1 Million from eli don't I?) (edited)

(yes, trifling amount for the wallet you're working with, so although your roll was bad, you can probably sell it for more on Heras, where your friction is lower)

1:25 PM

(I have to add this planet to the far trade data sheet, now that it has been visited, and you know what the market is)

"We most certainly could, I'll have our chaps meet your chaps and exchange the cash. Most certainly, what would you like to purchase, and we can show you how to use credits, and to give you a chit to store them on."

"Running a credit system for the entire planet would take some serious computing power, probably more than whatever a chit would give us. We're trying to get back into space ourselves, any astronautic tools, metal, or fuel would help us accomplish that for right now"

"Very true, and I can certainly procure some of that stuff for you, here's to a happy ongoing trade relationship!

(So how this will work, since they need to get on the credit system, you'll get 750,000 credits, and EP will get a base of influence on this world. They don't own it, but it will essentially be your distant office and government backed brokers to facilitate trades

(and with them needing to switch from dollars to credits, they'll make a local bank holding this month here as well, the mods are getting the data from this planet added to the trade data sheet)

(3xp, 5000 credits as well, for mission completion, and opening this planet to nominal trading)

(Great) "Good doing business with you, let's hope this opens up an ongoing trade relationship, am I permitted to tell others that you are ready to commence trade with the wider community, or would you like to keep this between us for now?"

"Anyone you come across, just please inform them of the landing protocols. We're trying to prevent a mass panic, or mass public outcry until things develop here"

"Very well, I will tell only those I trust to keep to your protocols until you are ready for the public to know" Valentina shakes his hand, and heads back to the Voice of Hermes, cargo aboard, and credits transferred. "Isabelle, if you're ready, take us back to Heras"

Isabelle takes the ship back into the air an hour later, once the cargo is loaded and the transfer of credits and goods are completed. The hold is full of the first true cargo from another world, and these supplies will be vital in ensuring the protectorate has something to work with. Mytikas is a recovering city, but the outer districts still have entire streets in ruins

Valentina looks across this cargo, pleased that the trade went well and that the cargo was secure, and goes about ensuring the ship is prepared for spike, before returning to the ship.

Making orbit, the planet space remains empty. "So that went well" Isabelle says "I have our course plotted. Should be an easy journey. We ready to go?"

"Yes, I think so, a nice trip home"

The jump takes the better part of a day, before you and your cargo make it home. The platforms clear your approach, and you're invited aboard to sell the cargo. The regent is also wanting a report about how the expedition went.

(Administer 4/90 for the downtime days on the way back) I will provide the following report to the regent:

The government of Radji are very open to trading with us as long as we are discrete with our landings and do not cause alarm to the locals, however they are now moving over to credits to allow for easier trade with the sector. They are looking to purchase items for an astronautical program, fuels, metals and tools, so if we have any spare on planet, we can defeatedly sell them for a good profit, please let me know your thoughts on this

(edited)

12:26 PM

(Am I also able to sell the Building materials here?)

(Yes you can, at a +2 for expertise, since it's wanted here_

(Wonderful)

2:18 PM

(16)

(so + expertise is 18, and 2 friction, bringing us back to 16, for +80% per ton on the sell, makes the total sale 216,000 credits, so we lost a little money here, you got snaked hard on the buy, but the colony still needs the material)

(That's fine by me)

2:53 PM

Valentina will await a reply from the regent, specifically interested in whether we have astronautical goods to trade

I am pleased to hear that our neighboring world is friendly, and is agreeable to trade. I will arrange for some experts to head out in that direction aboard our other two ships to begin setting up our holdings there. 

We do not possess any of the goods that the government of Rajdi is requesting, but they are only one of the planets next to us. There are other nearby worlds that may have it

2:57 PM

(if you want to fill the hold with something else here for sale, if you're going back out, we can do that, if you want to take time to do anything else we can do that too)

Very well, I will initiate trade with some of the other nearby worlds and see if we can start to build a network of resources to utilise

(Can we pick up 60t of whatever is plentiful here?) Valentina will put a call out for the ship to be made ready, "Isabelle, please plot us a course to Astyoche" (edited)

(Going to get a trade report up for Heras so you can see what’s available. There’s some production up now thanks to other polity members)

9:09 PM

(I’d recommend looking at the far trade section of the iron stars book too since we will be doing them a lot)

(Sounds good, I also have a copy of the trade spreadsheet, so hopefully that can be put to good use as well!)

(60 tons of either Drugs/Raw Materials, or Common Livestock, using Suns of gold prices. You pay 50% of the tonnage cost since these are surplus from EP production centers and your work is benefiting them)

9:37 PM

The scout data for Astyoche is pulled as soon as your ship enters the system, a day later TL3 Tens of Thousands of Humans This planet has the conditions to be comfortable for human habitation. Dinosaurs produced by either coincidental evolution, or runaway genetic experimentation roam the planet. The planet is a mix of rich grassland and barren desert. The only concentrations of note are settlements clustered around large crystal pyramids. Even from space, these pyramids give off enormous amounts of MES energy.

(60 Tonnes Drugs/raw materials sounds good please, much cleaner than livestock) (Also, Dinosaurs, very cool!) "Ok everyone, let's see if we can open up another trade route today! Let's try and get a scan as we come in, and see if anyone has radio or comms."

(lets get a program/int. If you're having the NPC do it, its at +2)

(10)

(did you want me to post the planet map up so you have it?)

(That would be great thanks, yes)

9:54 AM

(Also, do I need different permissions to pin stuff like maps to this channel?)

(Yeah its mods and me only for roles, but if you tell me what you want ill pin them for you)

9:57 AM

Nekosmash pinned a message to this channel. 4/9/2020 9:57 AM

(The maps and planet names are the things I tend to most often find myself going looking for, thanks) (Did I get anything back from the scan in terms of signals being transmitted or anyone responding to hails?)

(getting to that now, just wanted you to have some geography to reference) The settlement in the far west, near the rich jungle and overgrown moss mountains seems to be trying to transmit something in return. This high in space, only every third word or so is coming through, but after listening to the repeated transmissions, it sounds like they are welcoming you down

"Ok, Isabelle, If that western settlement want's to welcome us in, lets head in and see what the y have to offer."

The ship passes over a land that looks to be divided between a muddy mesa and a dense jungle. There are huts and larger more developed buildings clustered around a large 100m tall pyramid made from green crystal. It is nearly perfect, as though erosion has never acted upon its surface- in turn so flat that at sunset it could act like a mirror. A large field to the east of the village is clear of debris or trees

"Well, that field looks clear enough, set us down there and lets go and meet the locals"

Setting down, nearly the entire village of 200 comes out to see the ship, and marvel at it. Most of them are armed with a mix of spears and rifles. Two of them ride raptor like dinosaurs that are reined and saddled like horses would have been on earth

"Greetings, I am Valentina, and I bring welcome from the stars!" She says with a little more theatricality than necessary.

“Valentina. Welcome to Fast West. We weren’t sure anyone could hear our radio messages. We had satellites once but when the scream happened everything fell apart”

"We picked them up, although only just. We are from Heras, and the Elysium Protectorate, we are expanding our trading sphere at present and wondered if you were open to commencing trade with the wider sector?"

"Trade? We have a hard time even getting goods between places here with that bandit pack rolling around. You'd have a hard time storing any kind of supply here unless they're dealt with. Their leader is something of a local legend. Rides a purple raptor, and they say shes a psychic"

8:11 AM

"We've tried to even keep food for winter in a stockpile here, and its like they know where we

8:11 AM

are keeping things, and when"

Hmm, very well then, what are this local band armed with, and if we dealt with them, what do you tend to produce for trade?

"Well, there is a swampland to the south of the village, where oil seeps up from the ground. It's dirty, but we burn it for fuel. We tried making something to refine it, but again, bandits. The blaze almost set the whole bog on fire, and we decided not to try again. It wasn't worth the risk to the village, or the great pyramid"

3:43 PM

At it's mention, all of the villagers turn to the strange structure, and give a half bow.

"Is there a cultural or religious significance to the great pyramid?"

"The pyramids have been here for a long time. Longer than any of us. If someone rests outside a certain distance from them, theyve said they've had bad dreams"

"Hmm, well, I see no reason to venture out too far, give me a few days to get some equipment, and we'll go and see about those bandits!" Valentina heads back to the Voice of Hermes, and says to the crew, "Ok, we appear to have a bandit problem preventing our potential trade at this settlement, let's head out and check the other settlements, but assuming that this is our best trade opportunity, we'll have to come back with suitable superior firepower so to avoid a bloodbath, especially if this leader is MES active."

(I can look to see if you've got an armory aboard or not. Its enough personal weapons for the crew. If you go the arm the villagers route you also can, but the fitting would have to be purchased again, since all the guns would be handed out)

(There is an armoury aboard, but I think I'd rather head back to Heras, pick up exactly what we need and keep the armoury stocked for a rainy day)

The trip back to Heras takes the usual day, the platform welcoming you back now, familiar with the safe comings and goings of the Voice of Hermes. The dockmaster is already extending the fueling boom for you as the ship comes in to dock

(5/90 Administer) As the Voice of Hermes comes into the plarform, Valentina sends a message to the regent to update him on the situation,

Astyoche seems like a reasonably low tech affair, however they seem to be fairly resource rich, the main settlement is currently experiencing bandits, which is a definite barrier to trade, we're going to pick up some gear, and with any luck, establish a base of operations there from which to accomplish our ongoing business."

(edited)

(I'd like to pick up the following if possible: 10 laser rifles ($3000) 2x stalker drones with mag rifles and observation suits ($3800 x2) Combat field uniform ($1000) Data Slab ($300) Metatool ($200) 3x Lasarus Patches ($30 x3))

(All of that is available. Just to avoid a second trip for not elaborating, the metatool is a wrist mounted leatherman type thing with simple hand tools. If you're trying to do a big job like serious digging or any kind of major repair work, you would need a post tech tool kit)

11:44 AM

(not sure what you had envisioned, just didnt want you to be going in circles)

(Yep, fair point, Postech Tools at $300 as well sounds good, thanks)

With her equipment gathered up, she heads back to the Voice of Hermes and plots the course back to Astyoche

(1 day again) Arms and equipment stored aboard, the return journey is free from trouble. The radio signal from the planet below is off now, having successfully made contact with you before, the people assume you know where to find them now. It is evening when you make planetfall, the mirror sheen of the ancient pyramid remining you of captive jade fire, contained within glass

"Isabelle, can we make a pass over the wastes on our way in, I'd like to get a look at those bandits to get an idea of numbers if we can, also, Lucius, if you can get a scan of that Pyramid with the survey scanner, that would be nice to have an idea as to why the locals have as much respect for it as they do"

The readings coming back from the pyramid deny easy tabulation. There is a significant source of power inside, but it does not register as any kind of technology source. The plains are barren save for some packs of riding and pack animals, but there are no humans, but a small plume of black smoke trickles out from the dense forest north of the settlement you are trying to trade with .

"Hmm, well, that looks like the bandit camp, let's set down in the village and see if we can gather some intel from the village as to exactly what we might face up there"

The ship sets down in the cleared field, this time not knocking any trees down, The village once again begins to gather as the ramp lowers, while still keeping a respectful distance rom the ship

(Did I get the name of the village elder I spoke to before?)

(Didn't give one, but we can name them since it sounds like we'll be dealing with them a bit)

8:30 AM

Elder Stockholm and his small coterie of bodyguards is at the forefront of the group waiting for the ramp to lower. He has a black cloak of cured dinosaur hide, and a spear that ends in a long raptor fang, sharpened into a billhook

(Perfect) "Elder Stockholm, good to see you again, now about these bandits, what do we know of them, their numbers, where they make camp, and how they conduct their raids? I suspect given a suitable alternative to raiding here, or a suitable show of force, they can be encouraged to cease the raids, and allow us to conduct our business in peace."

"They ride raptors, and their leader is a teenage girl, though she has strong psychic powers. Its the only reason we haven't; stopped them ourselves. She seems to have an understanding of where we're going to be, or what we might be planning, even though there's no way anyone in the village would be helping her. Everyone here has lost a relative, or a years harvest, or worse, to the bandits"

3:38 PM

"As far as numbers, I would say no more than twelve"

3:38 PM

(12 raiders and mounts, if they have a camp following they'd never have been close enough to see anything)

"Hmm, about this young lady, what sort of powers has she displayed so far?"

"Aside from seeming to know exactly what we're doing, and when, she's been observed manipulating and moving things with her mind"

"Hmm, ok, that could be challenging, but given there reasonably lacking numbers, between ourselves and some of your guard, armed with some more advanced weaponry, we should be able to deal with the issue. Would your guards be happy to learn to use some more modern weaponry, and how many do they number?" (edited)

"I can spare only my personal guard for this, of ten. If you make a push on them, and they sense it, they might come for the village, and I would keep our strength here"

"Very well, in our hold there are 10 laser rifles that should be suitable for the task, I would suggest we take some time to allow your guard to become accustomed to them, do you have a training range available?"

"plenty of empty space out in the woods. If you don't mind a few minute's walk we can probably find a clearing to set up and practice with"

"Yes, that seems a fine plan."

Isabelle and Lucius, stay aboard the ship in case we need you to perform a hot pickup, Victrix, Fortunus and Thallia, grab your gear and the spare weapons, and let's get some target practice in!

Valentina mentally reaches into her drone control link, and summons forth the first of her drones 'Quintus I' and sets it to hover two feet behind her right shoulder.

They emerge from ship storage with the weapon cases between them, along with a musette bag of spare power cells and some steel plates for targets. One has a fire extinguisher, just in case

8:45 PM

"Alright, lets set up and try to get some range time in"

Valentina walks down to a suitable spot in the clearing and places the steel plates arrayed around, "So, here's our standard issue laser rifle, power cells go here, release like so, and well, the trigger is where it is! Why don't we spread out, and see what we can do to that steel!" Curious to see the capabilities of Quintus I, Valentina lines up a shot into the central steel plate. (10/12)

The shot misses slightly, singing a neat hole into the tree nearby. the security team manages to hit their marks, well drilled at this by now.

"Well, good to see that you're all fine shots if nothing else. I suggest we head towards there encampment, although if possible I would like to resolve this peacefully, however if it is not possible, we may be forced into a firefight."

1:04 PM

Valentia leads them off in the direction of the encampment, using the Quintus I's observation suit and altitude advantage to attempt to scout out the area ahead.

(Lets get a notice/wis for the drone)

(10, are there any bonuses for the observation suit?)

(+2)

1

2:15 PM

the drone with its more sophisticated imaging suite detects several small pack dinosaurs, though without humans, moving low at their version of a crouch to the left of the column, 50m away from the ground. They are obscured by thick vegetation and silent

"Quiet everyone," Valentina whispers, "We've got several dinosaurs to our left, I hope that if we keep moving and don't disturb them, they won't disturb us, but be on your guard." As the column continues forward, Valentina will keep one eye on the dinosaurs to make sure they don't get too much closer, and the other eye ahead, to check for traps and coming up on the encampment" (edited)

The drone shows that the pack is stalking you. They let you pass but turn to follow you back the way they came, now behind your formation but hidden by foliage

"They've moved behind up, watch your backs" (How far out from the camp are we?)

(About a kilometer now but at the current rate the pack will be on you before you get there , unless you can do something to scatter them)

"I'm going to pull their attention with Quintus, get ready to return fire if they charge" Valentina pulls Quintus around, and moves it to the opposite side of the pack of dinosaurs, where she opens fire, attempting to draw the pack away. (13/9)

Two of the dinosaurs with spitting enhancements chase after the drone, leading the pack off into the woods on a wild chase (14 and 11 to hit, i dont know if those do for the drone, but either way, they're going to chase)

(Drone AC is 13, so one hit) Assuming it's still alive, Quintus accelerates to move out of spitting range as it draws the pack away. "Ok, they're heading off, let's keep moving."

(did 9 damage. Not sure if it’s got an armor value. If it does, the armor worth of damage is shaved off and the extra goes through )

(Yep, that's down) Valentina curses momentarily, marks the crash site on her tablet's map and reaches to the Voice of Hermes where Quintus II activates and moves towards the column, coming to a hover 100m above, and commencing scanning again for threats.

(The dinosaurs will be otherwise engaged doing dinosaur things to Drone 1, but you've handled them as far as it being an obstacle)

(Superb) "Keep moving everyone, they're distracted for now, but we should move to the camp with some haste"

The camp is close, within 200m now through a thicket of trees and you hear the loudest of the camp voices joking and talking. The smell of their cook fires is also close.

8:43 AM

The trees are thick, keeping you concealed but also preventing a good view of the encampment. You can barely make out two tents, tall poles for what you’d guess would be their raptor paddock, and some kind of pressure pavilion in a garish red fabric

"Hmm, perhaps they don't always know what's coming, I'd like to try a non violent approach first, you two, with me, the rest of you stay in cover in case this gets nasty, and if it does, shoot the psychic, I don't like the idea of her starting to throw heavy stuff at us." Valentina, weapon holstered, steps out into the encampment, "Hello, I'm Valentina Spiros, take me to your leader!"

Two armed guards spring up in surprise, lowering weapons, but not firing or advancing upon seeing your hands empty "You're here for the boss? where are you from? and who sent you?"

"Yes, your boss would be wonderful, I'm from a planet know as Heras, and nobody sent me."

"Off world! well now, she would be interested to meet you, please come with me"

7:55 AM

You're brought to the red tent, where a woman who couldn't be older than 20 sits on a cushion, eating a simple meal before a table that is little more than a board nailed to some smaller blocks. she sets down her rough fork, and wipes her face "What's going on, prisoner?" the guard shakes his head, and signs something to her that you're unable to see. "Ah a guest. Alright, please, have a seat. You went through the trouble of finding us, I can hear you out"

"Why thank you, and how might I address you? I hadn't the pleasure of discovering your name before arriving."

"Chief is fine, for now. Thank you for not coming in here and just shooting everyone. Most of our visitors try that pretty much right away"

"You're quite welcome for that chief, I find that a more civil approach is often mutually beneficial, I'm a woman of trade after all, and I'd hope to say a reasonably pragmatic one. I'm looking to set up a business venture on this planet, and hoped we could work something out. The village back there seems to be the largest population centre, and therefore the most sensible place to set up of world trade from, however for that, we would need to get in good from the surrounding areas, this is apparently done by ground transport of one form or another, however apparently it was stopped after raiding on the traders by your gentlemen here, got a little more frequent than was good for business, I'd imagine both yours and their's. In order to make this trade arrangement as mutually beneficial as possible, I had a proposal in mind for you. I need a force to protect my interests on this planet. I'll be establishing a base of operations, for people to bring goods into, and to facilitate trade, however this will need protecting, and I might suggest you would do well at that. In return, I would ensure that you get a cut from the goods traded through the base, so as my business flourishes, so does yours, what do you think?"

“How much money are we talking?” She asks, clearly interested. “I want to know that first, but there’s something bigger at play here, and this trade you’re trying to open up might make things complicated

"Well, given we tend to trade in a system known as credits, we tend to make trades of around 100k credits at a time, so say you were to have 5% of that, you would walk away with a tidy 5,000 credits, and that's if it was only the one ship operating, as more ships come and open up trade further, I'd suggest it could be a very profitable venture!"

"So there is a problem here- and this might be something youre suited to solve. Right now, through raiding, and handling things ourselves, we're the dominant power. That 5,000 credits, split between all of us- thats subsistence wages for our lifestyle, and barely that. We're not going to be the top of the food chain anymore. I think you, or whatever organization you're backing is going to take that spot- and I really, really like being my own boss"

7:48 AM

"I've got a lot to lose here if you're permitted to start hauling off all my stuff"

"Ok, I'm a fan of working together and this going down peacefully. My organisation intends to set up trade here and if I do not return, or do not succeed in establishing a trade arrangement, I fear they will send someone to establish it for us, and they will most likely do it by flattening anything that opposes them. With that in mind, how would you see best to proceed?" (edited)

"Your organization is welcome to try. Any scheme of yours where I am walking away with a measly 5,000 credits to split among the group here is less than poverty level for us. We're not accepting that deal. We'd need at least a million, each, and maybe we'd give up this life of banditry all together"

"Ok, then I will need to go and talk to the others in my organisation, and see what they have to say about it" Valentina will stand, offer to shake the Chief's hand, and walk out of the tent, assuming she is allowed

(Yeah, you came peacefully, theyre going to let you leave peacefully)

(Superb, as I'm leaving, I would try to get an idea of numbers of people and raptors, as accurately as possible)

(her, 12 bandits, each of them have a raptor, and there are 4 extras, either replacements or unlucky previous owners)

Valentina walks back into the undergrowth, a short distance from where the remainder of the group had been waiting, and walks back to meet up with them, keeping an eye on the camp from Quintus still hovering a few hundred meters above,

The camp is quiet. Two riders look to be mounting up , but they do not look heavily armed

As Valentina moves back to the group, and finally joins back up with them she says, "Ok, they've not decided to be particularly reasonable, lets stay in position and observe, while we figure out our next move."

4:44 PM

(How dense are the trees, and particularly the overhear tree cover)

(Overhead is very sparse around their camp, but the trees around it are dense. They had to fell a good area for building supplies and their homes)

Isabelle come in please, I could do with you organising a fireworks display for me, a little distraction if you will. Get the ship overhead, and get ready to cause havoc, if there's a specific target, I'll call it for you

(edited)

7:06 PM

"Ok everyone, let's get to a position to set an ambush, if they're not going to be reasonable, we'll just have to do this the old fashioned way."

“Captain I do need to caution you that even our multi focal laser is incredibly destructive against ground targets. If you’re sure about this you’re going to need to be a good way from the camp”

"Ok, I see two choices, either, if you think you can clear the camp in a single blast, that's an option, or if not, do lots of low passes to draw their attention before we spring an ambush. How much damage do you think you can do?" (edited)

“I’d wipe the camp out along with most of the surrounding forest, and you if you’re too close. The late first regent made the same mistake. We aren’t properly equipped for pinpoint bombardment like this , but I’ll do it if you’re clear of the blast radius”

"Hmm, a good point, my concern is that with that precog, they may have time to clear out, before you could get the strike in and once they're scattered in the forest we lose the opportunity to wipe the group in a tidy way. How quickly can you eliminate the camp once we give you the go ahead?"

"I'll only need a few seconds to line up a shot. What happens when the beam hits the atmosphere I doubt she could even predict"

"I have a nasty feeling that it isn't what happens when the beam hits, and more that it's going to, that she predicts, but if you can be on target that fast then get the Hermes above the target and get a survey scan running to check for people moving off, I'll keep Quintus overhead until you're in position." "Ok, everyone else, I'd like to set ourselves up at the settlement in case the bandits try to strike while we're away as the Elder feared."

(by time you make it back the Hermes should be about ready)

(Ok, superb, is there any movement as we're moving back to the settlement?)

Quintus II does not see anything as far as people leaving the camp.

"Well, as unpleasant a business as this is, and I very much wish it could have gone better, let's tidy up this mess."

(luck save)

(16)

The bombardment falls far short of the camp, vaporizing a large swathe of trees between the camp and village. A large forest fire begins to burn. The concussive shockwave ends just before the village

"Welp, I thought you said you could hit it! Can you put another shot on target, or are we now going to have the worlds slowest ground cleanup job, with potential forest fires for good measure?"

8:41 PM

(For luck saves, is high bad then?)

(Same as the others the value just doesn’t get better as much with level. There’s an actual macro o. The sheets)

(So equal or beat with a target of 14? So a pass?)

(You passed that’s why you didn’t take the bombardment)

(Oo, ok, they really aren't very accurate!)

(Without spitball tubes or iron rain ships aren’t really meant to bombard. That’s how cyrus died)

(Ah well, lesson learnt)

The second shot lines up and just in time as the camp begins to try to scatter into the woods. The forest fire begins to rage high, advancing slowly toward the oil fields near the village , the same ones hoped to be developed into your trade depot. The camp is annihilated with a well aimed shot, this time Isabelle was able to dial the attack in. A large smoking crater exists where the camp did only moments before

"Ok, well, bandits gone, potentially a bigger problem though, that oil field going up, lets make as much space between the treeline and the oil well, block any surface access to the well itself, and cut as many tree as necessary to create a gap, get the town to help as well"

(Let’s get a lead/cha since this is a very dangerous situation and the villagers might not want to follow you into this)

(3, Snake Eyes)

7:13 AM

(Scratch that, 4, not that it'll help, the mods on my character sheet were wrong) (edited)

The villagers are focused more on evacuation, packing up what goods they can and fleeing into the pyramid. The building begins to glow with intense power as they all enter, seeming to phase through the sides

"Valentina to Hermes, a pick up would be wonderful right about now"

7:55 AM

"Also, any good ideas as to why that pyramid might be glowing?"

(Just to confirm, we're just going to let the fire play out since we couldnt get the villagers to help?)

(If it's a full blown forest fire as I'm imagining, and the oil well is directly next to the forest, I have no heavy machinery to clear a good gap between the areas, a small amount of water won't put out the forest fire and would only exacerbate the oil fire? From memory the oil well is on the surface so there also isn't a good way to close it off. Assuming I've remembered all the relevant information correctly, I feel like this is one of the extremely unfortunate circumstances where I have started something I cannot stop!)

(All good! I just didn't want to whisk you away thinking it was going one way, and you wanted something else)

8:15 AM

"Not sure, but whatever is going on, they think it's going to keep them safe from this no doubt. None of them stopped to see if we needed to get in, or offered. I'll be there in a moment, have everything ready to go!" Isabelle says, her voice cutting out over the sound of engines behind her

(Yep, the only other alternative I can think of is helping the villagers to get their stuff into the pyramid as a gesture of goodwill)

8:17 AM

Valentina will offer to help various villagers to carry things to the pyramid, until the Hermes arrives. (edited)

Piling them at the base of the pyramid, you get a look inside, momentarily, as the wall phases out for a split second. The figures inside seem to be teleporting away, grabbing whatever they can Where they have gone, it is not clear.

8:23 AM

The Hermes kicks up dirt and dust as it lands, ramp down, Isabelle holding it level for you to race onboard

Valentina runs aboard and beckons for the others to follow, wondering if the pyramid could be linked to the other pyramids across the planet? Once Valentina is on the bridge, she would give directions to the other settlements, wanting to see whether the townsfolk have come out at the other village as Valentina thought?

(which one did you want to explore first?)

(The one to the far south near the volcanoes)

The Hermes rapidly makes orbit, and travels a long distance in only a few moments. Sure enough, the flock of displaced villagers emerge from the pyramid, and look to be speaking with the natives of this village

"Ok, let's drop in and see what's happening"

11:59 AM

"No, they probably won't be keen to see us, but let's see what can be salvaged from this mess"

The fires have burned to nearly the pyramid, where they seem to not come within a 300m radius of the site, but the heat would still be punishing and intense - the villagers made the right choice. The oil wells are aflame , burning steadily as points of flame even with the forestland around them a smoldering ash-waste, as the wall of fire has moved on, past the village. Dirty black smoke drifts skyward, and even through the air filtration system you can smell the soot

(Sorry, I meant the village that isn't on fire)

The ship sets down, and the ramp lowers. You're faced with angry looks from dozens of faces, and even more as villagers continue to materialize from the pyramid

"Afternoon everyone, glad you all got out ok, turns out that forest was far more flammable than we realised, I've got some medical supplies aboard that we'd like to give you as a gesture of goodwill for the inconvenience, and I hope we can still work together in future."

The looks of hatred soften a bit, when it is clear the medical supplies are indeed being provided. "At least you took care of the bandits. I guess you don't exactly need our permission to take the oil anymore, assuming there's anything left."

"I am truly sorry about the mess that we caused, I'd like to continue trying to set up trade, and if we can repair some of the damage we caused, I hope that will also be of assistance to you. If you are ever in need of our assistance, please let us know, I will send a party to start repairs as early as possible, and hopefully we will meet again soon"

(just let me know how many tons you're dropping off, but you leaving something helps all the same)

(20 Tonnes seems like a nice amount)

The medical supplies are left behind, and the villagers wait until you've lifted off to begin taking them. No shots are fired in your direction as you leave, though the fires continue to rage

"Well, that could have gone better, I wonder whether that is classed as a diplomatic incident? Lets head back to Heras, and then down to Techmessa, to see what they have in store for us." (Goals updated by the way)

(I'll take a look over them)

(Perfect, thanks)

(3xp, and 5000 credits from the last mission, as well)

1

Refueling on Heras, the most recent data from your trip is downloaded. The Artema situation on the planet below means help will not be going to the forest fires on the world you left for some time

Leaving port, this time for Techmessa, (1 day downtime) the tower wishes you better luck. The hunt for fuel to get a productive route including Radji continues and perhaps this next world will likewise have something to be used instead. The system is moonless, inhabited by a single desert planet close but still within life-miscible range of the system star. A trio of Bannerjee 12 platforms orbit the planet, providing complete coverage of its sphere. Normally, on entering a system with space defenses, the platforms hail almost right away. These are silent.

(7/90 Administer) Coming into system, that certainly strike Valentina as odd, but given the distance, the station may not have noticed us to hail and as such Valentina will hail them. "Come in Bannerjee platform, this is Valentina Spiros of the Hermes, are you receiving us?"

(Also, would I have had time while we were in Heras to pick up a replacement drone for the one that got blown up?) (edited)

(Of the same pattern yes)

(Perfect, thanks)

The comms remain silent. On the closest platform, a small explosion blows out a row of viewports looking out into space on the observation deck.

"Well, that looks unfortunate, there may still be people on the platform, lets get closer and see if there's anything we can do to help. Lucius, see if you can hail anyone or detect any life signs, lifeboats or other ships."

"I can see short range comms traffic, nothing powerful enough to get into space, but there are people inside talking to each other" (program/int to try to get into their connection)

(7, this rolling thing isn't going well)

(That’s enough for this ) The individual streams are hard to make out but upon listening to an aggregate of them, it seems the various workers on the platforms are in the midst of rebellion against the ruling body on the planet below. Fights seem to be spilling down corridors and into restricted areas of all three platforms, the local military barely holding on against that they’re Labeling as “insurgents”

(Have I got any information on what the history and politics of this region is?)

(No, this is all uncharted space)

Grabbing the console nearest her, Valentina attempts to hack an available system to get general information on who the factions are here, and why each side is fighting. (Presumably this is another Int/Program?) (edited)

(The check you made is the best that can be done right now)

6:22 AM

(with a 7, the only information to be pulled was just very general situational data)

Realising that there isn't enough access to glean any more data digitally, "Isabelle, lets get a little closer, and see if we can determine where the two factions might be, I'm loathed to involve us in what seems to be an internal dispute"

Based on comms traffic, the 'insurgents' on all 3 platforms seem to be on the same side, against planetary security forces. There do not seem to be any splinter groups in this disagreement

7:24 PM

Finally, a grainy voice begins trying to patch its way into your communication network

7:26 PM

"This is Zula, commander of the Free Worker's Brigade! We are fighting back against a planetary government who pushed us to the very limit with harsh taxes, bad working conditions, and corporal punishment when quotas were not met. if you help us get these platforms under our control, we can negotiate for better conditions, and you'll be rewarded handsomely. The choice is yours"

"Very well, which station could we be of greatest assistance on?"

"Techmessa 3, the one that just had the decompression! There might be survivors, and they can't exactly lock you out of a breached deck!" There is gunfire on his end of the connection. "We'll meet you when you make it in. See you soon"

"Ok, see you shortly" Valentina dons a vac suit and gestures for Victix, Fortunus, and Thallia to do the same. "Isabelle and Lucius, get us to the area with the decompression, let's keep communications running through the ship and if you spot any survivors floating off, pick them up, this could be a good opportunity!"

The free merchant closes in. Sure enough, two members of the station crew seem to be drifting in space. They managed to get a suit on in time, their distress lights blink slowly to any who may pass by

Valentina clips into the Voice of Hermes for safety, and prepares to cast towards the nearer of the crew. (Do the suits have any form of propulsion built in?)

(they do, not enough to go far, but enough to get you back if a ship or shelter is close)

(Ok, sounds good) Ensuring her tether is secure with a good tug, Valentina pushes off into space, towards the nearest crewman, preparing to catch them as she gets near enough.

The crewman is unconscious, wearing the uniform of local security forces. It looks like he has been hurt in some way judging by the spreading red stain on the suit, but he is alive.

"Ok, Isabelle, I'm going to bring him back in, keep the ship as steady as you can, and have Thallia on standby to check his vitals when he's in," gingerly, Valentina attempts to find somewhere on his vac suit to clip the crewman on, and starts to pull herself back to the ship using the attached line"

There is a grapnel point on the suit where a metal ring can be clipped to equipment or a maneuvering jet. You’re able to connect his suit to Youre and Isabelle holds the ship into a steady pattern to allow tou easy entry. Thallia is Standing by with a gurney and a medical kit. Her supply of lift unfortunately is out, but you see her grinding up a healing powder mixture

"There's a set of spare Lazarus patches in my kit if you need it!" And with that, Valentina pushes back off towards the second crewman.

The second crewman is in a civilian suit and is awake , but helpless in space. His maneuvering jet has been broken, a knife is buried to the hilt in the main intake.

6:15 PM

He sees you approach and you can see the hopeful relief on his face

Again, Valentina clips him in and starts to pull herself back towards the ship, noticing he is awake, she tries to establish a comm link.

The link is crackly, but he accepts the communication "thank you for coming. I thought I was dead out here for sure. I never expected the security forces to vent the whole deck into space like that"

7:40 AM

He is talking excitedly, rapidly, and is clearly undergoing the late stages of shock

"Ok, stay calm, lets get you to our ship, and attend to your injuries, what can you tell us about the security force onboard?" As he speaks, Valentina pulls them both back towards the ship, trying to be as smooth as possible to avoid aggravating any hidden injuries.

"Not sure how many came up from the planet. They came hidden in cargo shuttles. As soon as we opened the hatch to begin offloading they came out and started firing"

9:09 AM

"There were some protests earlier in the day, no one's sure who shot first"

"How long have the stations been held against the rebels then?"

"Two days of violence, back and forth. Small stuff, bombing here, retaliation by the other side....didn't escalate into full scale civil war until today. If we can get even one of the platforms under control, we can turn their guns against the settlements there.... We don't want to shoot, we have families down there too, but we need them to listen. We need them to negotiate with us"

"Hmm, ok, you settle down with Thallia, she'll take good care of you. In the mean time, I'll try and get a better idea of the situation, and how we might best be of assistance." Valentina looks back out of the airlock, examining the station, but a short distance away, looking for signs of movement on the different decks, and also keeping an eye out for the shuttles that brought the security teams aboard.

The shuttles have all made it to the stations already, and no more seem to be launching from the ground. There aren't any further violent expressions of force , but the heaviest fighting seems to be concentrated on the second station

(Did the person I first communicated with tell me which station they were on?)

(They were on the second station)

(Well, looks like that might be a good place to start) "Isabelle, now those two are aboard, bring us around to the second station, I intend to go aboard and meet with the leader of the insurgents and see what can be done, I won't command any of you to come aboard with me, as it is certainly a particularly volatile situation, although I would appreciate the help of any who are willing!"

"I should stay here, along with Thalia, she can't leave her patient, and you're going to want me ont he ship already if things get topsy in there." Everyone else seems eager to board and at least get a better idea of what is happening. "If you're going out in vac suits, we can get close to the station, and you can try to board through that deck that was blown out. Might be the best way into the station, and I bet security isn't watching that section of the ship"

"Yes, we most certainly should be in Vacc suits, especially if there's a risk of another floor being blown out," addressing the boarding party," and thank you to you for agreeing to join me."

11:52 AM

"Isabelle, how close to the blown out deck do you think you can get us?"

"Within 20 meters, just a short float through space to get inside. They're not firing on us, if they were hostile by now we would know"

"Ok, that sounds ideal, let's head in and pay these people a visit," Valentina stands at the airlock, kit attached to the vac suit's webbing, with Quintus 2&3 attached by lanyards for the float through space, ready to be deployed as the atmosphere allows for their propulsion systems to reactivate. She also visually checks the kit of her crew, and if anything obvious is missing, or a magazine is upside down, she would politely point it out. "Isabelle, it will be your call as to when we are close enough, so we will move on your signal"

As everyone piles into the airlock, you feel the ship gently angle toward the station. Outside, there is a continual bust of the fine maneuvering jets, as the ship pulls close to the station. The airlock begins to cycle and you hear Isabelle's slightly musical voice over the intercom. "Alright everyone, here we are"

12:59 PM

the light changes from amber to green, and the outer hatch unlocks

"Thanks Iz, see you when we get through this"

3:24 PM

Valentina pushes off into the vacuum, applying small bursts from the manoeuvring jets only as absolutely necessary

There is an elevator at the right side of the corridor when you make your way into the station, two bodies in security forces uniforms lie near it, both shot and very dead now. The elevator itself seems to still have power

(Are there any signs of what this corridor was or what it lead to, or was it just the lift to an observation deck or airlock?)

(its a lift to the inside of the station)

Valentina tries the button of the lift, to see if it has any life in it, trying to spot a location to clip onto if possible. "If this lift starts moving, be ready in case more security forces are on their way"

The lift has power, and the car opens, metal doors parting to allow your boarding team access. The lift has four destinations, though the bridge button is no longer lighting up. of the three remaining there is -Commercial Quarters

Engineering

-Security Center

"Ok, I suggest we head down to the security centre as that might give us control over the rest of the station, and any security systems that exist"

2:31 PM

Valentina presses the button for security

The car begins to rise through the long elevator shaft , and as it passes the othe rlevels you can hear the sound of gunfire from the other side of the doors. A round indents the elevator door as you pass, but does not make it into the cab.

2:35 PM

The two doors begin to winch apart, to a reception area, where three rebels are crouched in front of some kind of portable computer. Cables are attached to a keypad on the wall- which is presumably locking the large blast doors in front of you. A rifle from one of the rebels swivels around to point at you "Woah there, that's close enough. Why are you here? and who are you?"

"We've come up from the Voice of Hermes, we spoke to you're leader, and picked up a few of your wounded friends outside, it looked as if you needed a hand"

Their posture relaxes quite a bit "we do need help. We can't seem to get in there, we know theres security forces inside, not many. They barricaded themselves in:

"Do you mind if I give it a look?" (Would this be more program, fix, or something else entirely?)

(You can actually use either one, or any skill, depending on how you want to approach the scenario. I'm willing to entertain anything)

Valentina reaches down to the pad attached to the door, and looks through the system for a way to override the door. (11 int/program)

The door clicks, and begins a short countdown before opening, as your expert eye finds a security vulnerability. "I can't believe this whole time that the password was "guest" one of the techs says, bracing his rifle and pointing it at the about to open doors

"Yep, people are a little lax when it comes to security, happily enough for us! I'm going to pop the doors open on three so everyone be ready." Valentina pops Quintus 2&3 into the air and prepares them to target any hostile forces on the other side of the door. "One, Two, Three!"

The control room is a 20x20m square, the walls are made of a riveted metal (you're at the south door) Three banks of computers, 5m apart each, and the closest 5m from this southern door stretch across the room. 5 security officers and 3 technicians are inside. The technicians are rapidly trying to sabotage the station as best they can to frustrate the advance of rebel forces, and were clearly not expecting the doors to open this quickly. The security forces are arranged behind the rows of consoles, intending to use them as cover during the shootout. (iniative)

(7)

(you, crew, security officers)

Firing on the nearest two security officers, Valentina instructs each of the Quintus drones to take shots. (21/17 - I know that Roll 20 says 22/15, but I had the ABs in wrong) (6/12) "Lay down your weapons and tools if the rest of you wish to live" (edited)

One of the security officers is shot through the chest as the drone scores a hit. The other is missed, and the remaining 4 do their best to recover from the sudden assault. Your crewmen are unable to score hits of their own, shots slam into consoles or hit the deck plates (4 and 15 to hit) The security officers fire back (if a 14 hits, theres a 14 /12 on one of the drones) , doing their best to make up for the scant cover in the room by employing volume of fire instead. "Giving this control room up means our families below die! you'll have to kill us all!"

(Yep, Quintus 3 goes down) "Pardon. Why does surrendering this room mean that your families die?"

"They'll take control of the weapons on board the station and bombard the planet!"

"What were you planning to do with it?"

(whos that addressed to, the guards or rebels)

(The guards)

"Defend it...so they cant destroy our homes"

3:26 PM

"You can't expect us to stand aside and allow them to bombard the planet"

"Yep, ok, but if your dictatorship, it is a dictatorship isn't it? Is going to continue mistreating the workforce, why would you support them?" Then addressing the rebels, "For that matter, why would you want to bombard the planet below, when presumably you also have friends and family down there?"

(the rebel leader was saying he has no intentions of actually ordering the bombardment, but the threat of them being able to do that is going to bring the world government to the negotiation table)

(Yep, I guessed, but thought I'd keep speaking and see if anyone gave up any useful information or surrendered out of boredom, we can start shooting again at any convenient moment)

Addressing the rebels once again, "OK, how about you surrender now to reduce the loss of life, and we don't bombard the planet immediately, you have my word on that, plus, I have your computer system, your security sucks, so if we wanted to cause mayhem, we could have done so digitally already. Then you call up your government, explain to them that we have control of the weaponry, and that they should come to the negotiating table in order to preserve lives, how does that sound?"

(Lets get a talk/cha. We have a few good points made here but they don’t have any guarantee you won’t double cross them) (edited)

(10)

"We'll surrender to you , only you, don't let your rebel friends at us once we drop our weapons"

"That is absolutely fine by me, we will have to restrain you, but it will be done by my team, and will be done as gently as we can, as long as you do not resist" (edited)

They begin edging toward your group, and your companions take them into custody, grabbing weapons off of the surrendering guards. The technicians likewise cease their labors, and the rebels begin filing into the control room. Efforts quickly begin to try to get the damaged terminals online

As the security forces hand over their weapons, Valentina looks down at the console, and tries to determine if the computer systems are still online, or whether they need repairing before they can be accessed.

The communications system, engines, life support, and weapons systems are online. Most of the damage is superficial, the gunfight ended before getting violent, and before the techs had much time to work

Noting that the systems are still mostly functional, Valentina hacks into the weapon control systems and attempts to ensure that it is not able to be activated without her permission

(that last check has you control of the platform, though they probably dont know it)

(Superb) Valentina changes the default passwords, to secure the system a little, and with far more green text flying across the screen than necessary, announces, "The platform is digitally under our control, now may be a good time to prevent any further problems with physical security" Valentina scans the feeds from the stations CCTV, attempting to identify the locations of remaining security forces.

Security is now reduced to pockets of resistance around the platform, concentrated mostly around medbay, trying to defend their wounded from rebels who would happily kill them, and around hydroponics, and their barracks. Rebels run rampant through the station, bloodlust the end result of years of systematic oppression coming to a head

Valentina opens up an intercom channel to the rest of the station, "The station is ours, please capture any remaining security forces, they could be useful later."

There is a conflicting mix of fear, dismay, and blood-greed among both the Rebels and security forces alike and this years long conflict is reaching a full boiling point. In the barracks deck things end somewhat peacefully. There are injuries, and some of the security team is beaten before their more level headed fellows can get things under control. None of the wounded will be suffering lasting conditions from how things seem now. In the medbay, security forces and especially their wounded are dragged out of bed and executed. The resistance leader arrives on the scene shortly after, and repeats the incident with the local commander of his own forces there, as things got out of hand. In hydroponics, security forces surrendered after an intense fifteen minute gun battle, that has ruined the room for any kind of food production, and saw heavy losses on both sides. These prisoners are being treated well

"Hmm, well, this definitely could have gone better, but then again, there definitely could have been more bloodshed." Valentina heads out to find the leader of the rebels to see what they intend to do next.

Noting that the resistance leader has headed to the medbay, Valentina will head down there also, hoping to catch him before negotiations commence.

The rebel leader is admonishing his men when you make it there. Another, a deputy commander, has also been shot

"Good day Commander, I'm Valentina, I was hoping to discover what you planned next, given I now appear to be somewhat invested in this venture."

"We're going to try to get the world leaders on some kind of call. What happens after that depends on them. I hope this bloodshed here is the last we need to do before conditions improve, but we're prepared to go further if they do not. your assistance allowed us to get this far. If we're successful in our aim of better treatment and regime change here, we will of course owe you a massive degree of debt. I am certain we can work out an equitable repayment when this unfortunate matter is concluded"

"Hmm, it sounds as if the situation is mostly in hand, is there anything else I can do to assist here, or shall I leave this in your capable hands? As for an equitable repayment, that would be good, and I hope we can form a strong trade relationship for the future."

"If you're not staying for the negotiations, for now you've done all you can. From here, we will see what can be done with the government on the ground"

"Best of luck then, contact me if you need anything." Valentina heads back to the Voice of Hermes, and begins plotting the route back to Heras.

(3xp, 5000 credits)

9:17 AM

(and a day of downtime on the way back)

(Perfect, 10/90 Administer, would now be a good time to do the EP far trades?)

(sure we can do that , theres an EP faction channel, just post the results there, and then ill let you know if there's any trade troubles)

(Can I also grab another two drones to replace the ones that have gone spectacularly pop?)

(And are black slabs available for purchase on the "open" market, or would I need to go and hunt one down?)

(the drones can be replaced, you have enough face to get a black slab)

(Great) Valentina sits on the deck of The Voice of Hermes, and begins to plot a longer voyage, out towards the SCAF via Koraa-s, Muntsaratz, Balqis and then Bergassa, assuming I get that far without major mishap

(I saw this. Just have to generate a couple things)

(Yep, no rush, I just thought that laying out a plan ahead of time would make life easier in the long run)

Korra-S is the first destination of the Voice of Hermes, and the scouting data begins to populate as soon as you enter the system. Korea-S is a planet of lava and endlessly flowing tides much like Tsatsos. The planets atmosphere is magnetically charged and the world is tidally locked, causing the superheated landmass to experience rainfalls of burning metal. Entering the atmosphere would be suicide for anything but a highly specialized craft.

8:21 PM

It does not seem like any non EP vessels have been through the area recently

"Lucius, do you think we could get a survey scan of the planet, just in case anything is surviving down there?"

"There's a lot of interference, I'll need a hand over here if you don't mind, but we have nothing to lose by trying"

"Yep, absolutely"

8:25 AM

(Program/Int 10, 12 if the survey scanner's +2 works here)

(it does, doodling map now)

11:04 AM

(they didnt roll well enough to get a map before, so you've helped)

(Ok, well, good to know that not all my rolls from this point on will be triple ones, and therefore of some use!)

(Well, that looks like a good place to get you're face melted off trying to visit)

"We have an area map now. At least we know what's under those storms. We might be able to get something for the map once we return'

"Yes, very true, there may even be something mineable, despite the completely inhospitable welcome, something to report back for sure. Lets move on to Muntsaratz and let someone with more specialised kit come back here"

(there should be a scouting report up for that one as well, the desert world with the equidistant pillars)

Muntsaratz Scouting Report: Muntsaratz is a desert planet that has no visible water on its surface and few clouds. There are strange voids, exactly 10km apart one the surface scan return, where scanning beams have either been absorbed or reflected. This distance between the gaps does not change no matter what side of the planet is scanned or how many attempts are made (edited)

3:24 PM

"Hmm, this is an odd one, any life signs down there, or anything that might look like a population centre, past or present?"

"There are human life signs down there, thousands...not many...but thousands. Those pillars, whatever they are, are scrambling our ability to get more of a picture than that"

"Ok, well, there's no evidence of space traffic, so presumably they have lost their ability for space travel, or never developed it. Regardless, let's head down to the densest population centre that we can spot, and hope that it resembles some form of civilisation."

There is a sizeable village near the collection of pillars, the closest as is habitable to the northern arctic circle, though there is no ice.

10:23 PM

The settlement is a collection of tents and shelters, haphazardly arranged around many of the pillars

"That looks like a good place to set down, can we just ensure that we are a respectable distance away, we wouldn't want to startle them."

The craft sets down 750m from the camp, far enough away to where the sand clouds kicked up by engines dissipate before hitting the camp itself

Valentina lowers the cargo ramp, and walk out, looking towards the camp and pausing for a moment to see if there are figures walking around within the camp. Regardless she continues towards the camp, with purpose.

Several children run toward you, the adults keeping further back. Many clutch walking sticks or long poles, fashioned into tools. One leans on a rifle though seems to be using it in the same walking stick capacity. For now, they seem content to stare you up and down

"Greetings from the Elysium Protectorate, I'm Valentina Spiros, have you someone I might talk to?"

One of the elders begins walking over with a gaggle of children and younger adults with him. Many cling to him and the others look on somewhat fearfully

10:01 AM

“Valentina spiros, why have you come ?

"We have come looking for a trade opportunity, are you all ok?"

"There was a large earthquake last night, but we are all okay. some of the children are just a bit scared" he says, and in his presence they seem to relax a bit

"That's definitely unfortunate, do they occur often?"

“Not as often as they used to. The pillars are the safest place to be when one of them@happens. You’re from the stars. Where up there do you come from?”

"We're from the planet Heras, it's a few days journey from here in our ship. What are the pillars, we couldn't see much of them as we came in? "

"They're quite tall, as you can see. THey do interfere with electronics though for some reason, it is quite strange"

"Yes, they are a little odd, are there any caves inside, or tunnels perhaps, and what would you think of me going for a look around?"

"Inside the pillars? You

7:16 AM

would have to look down from the top of them. I don't tihnk any of them are hollow. But we don't really have the tech to find out"

"Hmm, well, an investigation for another time perhaps, when we have more equipment with us, however the more immediate question I have is regarding trade, I would like to set up a trading post here, if you would have us, and I'm sure we can bring in materials at very reasonable rate should you desire it!"

"I can think of tons of things we need, but it becomes a question of what you want in return. What are your people in need of, what can we offer?"

"You may not yet know this, but I believe this planet may represent an important strategic location within the sector, your permission for us to build here would be greatly appreciated, and if there is any produce of which you produce a surplus, then we would of course be interested in that, are there any goods you think of that fit the bill?"

"From space, this world must look like a pincushion. It's hard to dig mines, plant farms, or do much of anything without working around the pillars. There's no easy way to dig under them, and they're thick, going around takes time. Its frustrated efforts to obtain much of anything from the ground here. The initial settlers were pilgrims. They came here thinking these pillars had religious significance, and they may. They've been silent all this time, for us. They cared little about material concerns, and this subsistence, scraping lifestyle was enough for them. Little has been done to survey, or try to determine what this planet actually contains, aside from these obelisks."

"Well, it may take some time, but if you're happy to have us here, we'd like to be here, and maybe in time we can make life a little easier for everyone?" (edited)

"You're free to walk this world. There is little to take, and little trouble you can get into"

"Why thank you, we will establish a base of operations a little way off over the coming months, are there any other established settlements that you know of?"

“Just small camps like this around the pillars. There are a few caravans that cross quite frequently you may also be able to track down. They pick through whatever they can on the surface”

"Well, thank you for your help, and I hope to see you again, I will see if we can meet one of the caravans before we head onward."

The elder moves back respectfully and bows. "Be well, you of Heras. I hope you find what you are looking for out there"

"Thank you," Valentina also bows to match him, and heads back to the ship, she intends to stay there for at least a week, and is on the lookout for the afformentioned caravans.

It takes three days of sweeps from orbit, before the first is found, a long column of camel like animals with close to 100 people traveling with them, departing the southern region of the planet, and moving north

(Are those three days downtime or actively doing stuff?) (edited)

(there would be enough time in there for you to work on something, scanning doesnt require constant attention or the whole crew)

(Administer 13/90) Valentina spends much of the following days considering whether in the long run it will be best to have an entirely ground based operation, or whether it may be possible to set up an orbital station as a trading centre. On the third day, noting the caravan, she walk onto the bridge and announces, "Ok, that looks like a caravan worth contacting, lets head down to them."

True to orbital imagery, the camel/oxen hybrids are accompanied by a mix of humans, some walking, some riding the beasts not pullin large wheeled carts. The beasts to their credit do not bolt or try to flee as the Voice of Hermes makes its landing, though some of the younger men do position themselves between you and the convoy as a defensive screen

Valentina steps out once more onto the arid ground, and greets the convoy with a wave, "Hello, I'm Valentina Spiros of the Voice of Hermes, and who might you all be?"

"Just a humble nomad convoy. We're going north to trade, and try to settle down away from the dust storms and pillar shakes

"And what do you trade in?"

"Scraps of metal, robotics, anything the desert decides to give up"

"Well, if you ever wish to trade we will be opening up a trade depot on (insert last location), within the next month or so, if you could spread the world that would be superb."

(yeah, we can say its coordinates or something, there's not really much in the way of urban planning or formal settlements here)

2:52 PM

"Trade depot? Finally have a place to unload this scrap then. You in the market for anything?"

(Yep, sounds good) "Not this instant, but when we're set up, we would be glad to have your business!"

They agree, and one of the caravan leaders approaches, signaling he would like to take you aside for a moment

Valentina steps to one side, open to the conversation, "Is there something I may do for you?"

"You should know about the south of the planet if you're planning to set up shop here"

"Oh yes, what might I wish to know?"

"There's something underground. The earthquakes, you can even feel them up here. Something is howling down there. Something big. and its been getting louder

"Has anything been seen? And does it ever affect this side of the planet?"

"There are rumors, something like a drake, but it lives underground. But its big, far bigger than a drake. My grandfather told me a story about these pillars once, that they were supposed to keep the thing in, but there are some people here who think of the creature as a god, and want to break them. I spent my whole life thinking it was just a rumor, or made up, but ever since the disaster happened a few years ago, nothing on this planet feels the same, and thats when the quakes started"

"And may I ask, what was the disaster, I wasn't around at the time."

“The scream. All the psychics died “

6:30 PM

“You didn’t feel it?”

"Ah, I presumed you meant something more local, we did, as we also felt the second scream a short while ago, we thought all the problems caused by the first, were rectified by the second, but perhaps not. Thank you for your candour, hopefully we can be of assistance, and maybe see whether this creature exists, and if it does, what it intends."

“You should know about it if you plan to do business here “

"Yes, well, here's to good business!"

6:01 AM

Unless they have anything else, to say, Valentina will head back to the ship and start plotting the route out to Balqis.

(yeah , they dont have anything, and if you're noping out we can move on , ill get a report up)

7:33 AM

(3xp, 5000 credits)

(Yep, to be perfectly honest, going and chasing down some kind of dragon on my own, just seems like a great way to die, possibly something for a group mission.)

Abandoned Colony The world once hosted a colony, whether human or otherwise, until some crisis or natural disaster drove the inhabitants away or killed them off. The colony might have been mercantile in nature, an expedition to extract valuable local resources, or it might have been a reclusive cabal of zealots. The remains of the colony are usually in ruins, and might still be dangerous from the aftermath of whatever destroyed it in the first place. Former Trade Hub This world was a major crossroads for local interstellar trade. It is well-positioned at the nexus of several short-drill trade routes, and has facilities for easy transfer of valuable cargoes and the fueling and repairing of starships. The natives are gone now, leaving behind decaying infrastructure and rotting starships.

7:43 AM

The reports on Balquis are actually readily available, and as you enter the system, two SCAF vessels immediately begin to make the short drill run back to Bergasa, which is a single jump away. One of them drops some kind of message buoy, but does not try to establish a traditional comm link.

"Lucius, can we establish a contact with that messenger?"

"We'd have to manually haul it inside, but we have space"

"Ok, lets do it, set about a system scan while we do so if you can. If we're in system for a while I really don't want to be snuck up on, and this used to be a trade hub, so there may be something of value, disused stations or shipyards in particular."

The system scan takes several hours, but no returns aside from your own ship are detected, the SCAF ships are truly gone

(No evidence of the old trade hub?)

(theres a lot of junk on the surface, and youd be able to see the cleared area for it from space, but nothing is on or capable of returning a signal down there)

(Ah, that makes sense, thanks)

"I'm sure theres plenty of tht stuff down there" Isabelle says, "but anything that needs power has probably been dead for long"

"Hmm, once we've got this buoy appart it may well be worth a look, we're not on any real schedule."

The Buoy is hauled in, and contains a short message, There are scavengers on the planet below, hostile humans who resemble neolithic hill tribes now more than organized citizens living in a society. They are violent and attack without warning. The cities down below are all nuclear hot zones. Any kind of modern protection will keep out the worst of the radiation, though you're advised not to linger for long. There is choice salvage in most of the cities. the trade hub is protected by patrol robots, though they are without centralized direction, and scattered. they come across intruders infrequently, but the longer one is in the area, the more organized and numerous responding robots become. There seems to be no end to their number- but it is reported several downed starships are in the port, and though none are cruiser or heavier, the corvettes and free merchants there are still a boon. SCAF reports taking one with them now in a limpet tow.

"Well, the ships sound like the best find if we can get them out, although given we have a few pilots, we may be able to fix one up and fly it out." (Do we need additional equipment for a limpet tow?)

(its an actual ship fitting)

10:41 AM

(for if you want to tow something but dont have a pilot for it)

(Ah, makes sense, we may not need one then!) "I'd say the port makes the most sense, given the lack of radiation, and if we can fix up a ship, we could potentially just take it home, the fleet really needs a good boost."

(the shiptender mount, is the actualname of the fitting iwas thinking of)

12:56 PM

"Alright, we're small enough to land outright, what do you think, bring the whole thing in? see what we can do?"

(Ok, perfect) "Yes, lets, it's a port, it should have enough space for us to land, they mentioned a Corvette or two being in, so lets look out for them, but also keep an eye out for anything bigger, in case they were trying to draw us away from something so they can come back and get it later."

From above the spaceport looks like a U, and there are wrecked planes lined up around it in a semicircle. A long runway goes north and south and is paired with a second 500m away running the same direction. Several other wrecks at the end of the runway are piles of loose debris

"Let's land in as close to the port as we can, we don't want a long run back to the ship if something catches us by suprise, the odd thing is though, those craft look significantly smaller than the ones we were tipped off about."

“Maybe they’re advanced ?” The navigator shrugs as the ship begins setting down outside the Ruined central terminal building. The wrecks are more impressive from the ground, despite their damage it’s clear they’re void capable, and have aggressive angular looking prows

"Hmm, quite right, definitely void capable, although probably not spike capable, do you think we've got any chance of packing one or two into the hold?"

“We should check them out first but we could fit two , that will fill us entirely and we will have to head back”

"Ok, that may well be a worthwhile trip back, if we can find two that work!" Valentina will head down onto the tarmac, and look to see which of the ship's might be least damaged, taking her toolkit with her.

The closest craft is a white dart, with its flanks beginning to rust, and its viewports caked over by grime and a long time being under the temperate sun of this world. A twin multifocal laser turret above the bridge, sags in its casement, the barrels melted and deformed from lack of care.

Valentina walks alongside these vessels, running a finger down the edges, wondering what became of the race that once inhabited this place, until she reaches the ships entrance, she walks in and heads towards the bridge.

(Interior map)

12:36 PM

(yuo'd be boarding in the middle, that throat hallway between the bridge and rear) The bridge doors are closed, and the pad looks intact. The rear doors heading back to the rec room, engineering, and the engines, along with access to the small underdeck hold is also intact

Valentina tries the bridge panel, assuming it won't work, but it's always worth a try!

The panel is looking for the captain's access code before the door will rise

"Huh, still online after all this time." Valentina draws out a black slab, and connects it up, looking for a vulnerability that will help her get the door open.

1:22 PM

(Int/Program 14, any idea why the first roll came out as zero?)

(I think that was the dice that was dropped, since it was lower than your other two, so the macro just drops it to 0)

(Hmm, weird)

(since you get 3d6, pick the best two, due to hacker)

1:26 PM

(you dont combine all 3)

(Does the macro not handle that automatically?) (edited)

(it did it again, it dropped the 4 since the test roll got 2 5's)

1:27 PM

(the dropped dice on the first roll you did was a 1)

(Ok, so the orignal roll was a seven, having dropped the 1, then a +4 bonus, for a result of 11?)

(original roll was 7 , +1 for program, +2 for int, and there is another +1 mod in there, i think from your black pad)

(Yep, +1 from black slab)

(alright, so the math is right)

1:43 PM

The black slab is able to fabricate command codes on its own, and the door opens to a bridge with most of the systems still alert, and on standby

Valentina looks carefully around the doorway, looking to see if any security systems are activating in front of her.

If there are any, the captains' credentials have likewise disabled them, an iris hatch in the ceiling remains sealed

(Was there anything outside attached to the iris?) (edited)

(just a grab bar for zero gravity)

Valentina goes to test the iris, as it may very much be needed later.

Holding on to the grab bar, there is small warning label etched into the metal of the bridge ceiling where you cling on. A turret is on the opposite side of the hatch, kept in a storage nacelle. It deploys when unauthorized parties are detected on the bridge, to help repel boarders. Your fabricated captains codes have authorized you and everyone in your party

"Well, automated defence is definitely useful, make sure we watch out for it if we go aboard any of the other ships." Valentina heads back down to the crew quarters and engineering, looking for any obvious signs of damage.

The crew quarters are undamaged, though there is a large burn mark at the rear elevator in the engineering section, that extends down into the below deck hold, almost like fire or some sort of heat source crept out from below

(Is there any smell of burning?)

(not anymore, if there was a fire its run out of fuel long ago)

Valentina steps towards the rear elevator, looking for signs of permanent damage, as well as what it could have been that combusted.

The elevator's electronic controls are disabled, likely due to the fire, but it does have a hand wheel for use in an emergency that seems to work fine. The back of the craft is dappled, the metal thin, and you can see light coming through pinholes in a few places. The ship is certainly no longer airtight.

"Well, looks as if there's not a significant amount of damage to the critical systems except the pressure, I suggest we try to power on for an in atmosphere flight, and if everything else is well, we can work on the pressure seals. Probably worthwhile you all finding somewhere to strap down." Valentina heads back to the bridge, and starts to feel her way around the controls, figuring out which ones are in non standard locations, and preparing the ship to power on. Once she's comfortable with the control layout, she finds the engine activation switch, and presses it!

The power flickers, and the portside engine is not responding. Red warning lights show the entire engine is offline and choked with fire retardant. The starboard engine is reporting green, and is working over-RPM to try to compensate for the loss

Valentina powers down the engines, and heads out to the starboard engine, toolkit in hand, popping the engine open, and setting to work dislodging the fire retardant, as well as looking for any other signs of damage. (Int/Fix 14)

The tools you have with you are not sufficient to complete this type of heavy starship refit, nor do your hand tools provide any capability to lift the engine out of its housing for proper cleaning. "We could just risk it, and see if the other engine is enough to at least get us to space. If we get that far, we should be able to limp it home" Isabelle offers

8:50 AM

(I didnt ask for a check because even a good roll like that doesnt give you the physical capability to do it)

(That's absolutely fine, I just though it quicker to throw out the check, then if it was applicable then you weren't waiting for me, in future, would you rather me wait for you to call for the check? Also, did we ever determine if it was spike capable?)

(youre fine, i just wanted to explain why a 14 which is normally a pretty stellar result doesnt do anything here)

9:08 AM

(we didnt establish that, but it looks to be capable)

(Superb) "Yep, even if we can't get that engine runnning, there's a good chance, I'll fly, and then if you bring the voice of Hermes along, you can lend a hand if we run into difficulties"

9:44 AM

"Although we either need to patch the holes, or conduct the entire transit in a vacc suit"

9:46 AM

"As we reckoned we could get two into the hold, that may well be far safer, lets check that this one is mostly functional, and assuming it is, we'll take it back in the hold, alongside another if we can find another workable one, then the trip back will be shorter as well"

9:47 AM

Valentina heads back to the bridge to start up the engines, to run a quick test flight (edited)

The engine revs up, and you feel the airframe shake as the surviving engine struggles to compensate and provide enough lift to get off the ground. It wobbles, as you begin taking off, trailing black smoke from the other engine, and when you turn it to port, several stability warnings begin to chime

Valentina steers it around towards the landed Voice of Hermes, and aims to set it down a short distance from the Hermes' cargo hold.

The small craft sets down gently, disabled engine still coughing smoke. More pieces of its internals have fallen out during the flight, but not enough to damage it beyond what has happened already.

"Well, perhaps a good job we didn't try to fly it all the way home," Valentina says as she jumps into the cargo hold, manoeuvring the few items that are left in the hold, parts for maintenance and whatnot, pushing items out of the way, creating a craft shaped space. (Do free merchants have some kind of crane for loading and unloading cargo?)

(I would imagine they've got all the tools needed for getting cargo onboard, probably through cranes and lifts)

Valentina considers for a moment how best to lift the craft aboard, settling on running slings under the hull, and then up to an overhead cargo crane, being the easiest solution. Once she is comfortable with the way it is rigged, she operates the crane to move the craft into the hold. If successful, she would head back to the landing strip to look for a second viable candidate. (edited)

(yeah theres no real chance for failure here between your own skills and the crew) The other small vessel identified is under a pile of other scrap. It looks like some kind of tower has collapsed on top of it, but the much tougher metal of the ship hull was able to take most of the impact, only deforming slightly.

1:35 PM

It is of the same pattern as the craft you just recovered, though coated in much more grime

(Is one or other of the hatches accessible, or are they all covered over with the debris?)

The portside hatch is not covered by rubble, and the keypad likewise looks open.

"Well, if these codes worked for the last ship, why mightn't they work on this one," ponders Valentina, typing in the captains credentials that she was able to generate from the other ship.

They work on this one as well, and the hatch slides open, granting you access to the long transversal hallway running from bridge to aft compartment.

Valentina works this time towards the aft, and the engine room first

The engine room of this craft looks intact, but where the spike drive of the other was working, this one has no core. It looks to have been removed through a deliberate salvage process, rather than just torn out by scavengers

(Were there other similar craft nearby?)

(there was one other)

9:07 AM

(of this size)

(Perfect) Valentina heads over to the other matching craft, enters the credentials and heads for the engine room, looking to see the state of this engine, and wondering if she has the available equipment to transfer a core if one is available (edited)

This core has been stripped out in much the same way, again with the employment of very precise industrial tools. The grease on several of the left behind bolts is still wet

"Well, this lot have been extremely efficient, let's hope these can still operate in system, and maybe we can retrofit a core later" Valentina gives the rest of the ship a rundown, as she heads back towards the bridge.

The bridge opens, free of defense systems activating. The system engines themselves work fine, and there is no damage on this vessel aside from the normal wear and tear of being outside. It does register the spike core is missing

"Well, this looks promising," Valentina throttles up the engine, and flies it back to the Voice of Hermes, landing just outside the cargo bay, and attempting to load it, much like the previous ship.

The bay is now full, with the two hulls inside, and safely locked down. The sun begins to set on this world as the last of the salvage and loading operations are completed

"Well done all, a good days work, a quick journey home, and then we can head on to Bergassa, as was our final goal!"

11:15 AM

Valentina heads back to the bridge, and starts to plot the route home as they leave the atmosphere

(3xp, 5000 credits) Reaching home, the two hulls are pulled from your cargo hold, and EP techs begin getting them reviewed , inventoried, and examined. It is expected that it will take several days, if not longer, to get a full work up done on them. (Its 5 total days to get back from here, to Heras)

(18/90 Administer) Valentina sends a report to the Acting Regent, detailing the state of Muntsaratz and Balqis, specifically that there may be significant pretech on Balqis, but there is high radiation on some areas of the planet, as well as asking about the state of broader EP, and whether there is anything he needs in particular, or whether she can continue on to Bergasa.

Kayden has deployed to bring the bandit situation as Astyoche under control, and a new pilot named Jake has deployed to Erdoza to complete another mission. For now, the Regent is giving his full support to the continued exploration efforts you are making.

"Very well then, we'll head back out towards Bergasa, thank you for your continued support"

2:09 PM

(This time run down the other route, Actala -> Grima -> Thorgunna -> Bergassa)

(Alright. I will make some reports and get things together for you)

(4 days to Actala, for downtime purposes)

9:15 AM

Actala is a system of twin ocean worlds, surrounding a trinary star system at the center. Each world has a thick ring of ice, asteroids, and other stellar debris, forming brilliant Saturn like rings around them. Actala II looks to have life on its surface, where 1 has nothing but local flora and fauna on initial scans

(22/90 Administer) "That is beautiful, well, if Actala II has some flora and fauna, why not explore there first, the worst something can do is eat us." Valentina says with a hint of sarcasm.

There is also a settlement on the second planet and it’s land based communications dishes look to be trying to patch in to your vessel

"Hmm, I wonder why we didn't notice that before?" "Hello Actala I are you recieving me?"

There is a crackle on the line followed by the shriek of static, and what sounds like someone shouting but they are very far away

(Do we have the equipment to try to filter and improve the signal?)

(Not beyond what it is now, problem is with the ground, not you)

(Ok) "Can we track down where that signal was coming from, seems their kit isn't quite designed for space transmissions, but lets see if we can drop in on them."

The transmission is coming from deep within some kind of mountain zone on the planet. The valley is acting like a transmitter , but the signal is weak

"Ok, Lucius, let's grab a surface scan as we come in, focused on that mountain region, and I'll keep trying to open a line as we get closer, as it would be nice to get an idea of who they are before they land."

“I. I think I have something boss. I think you should listen to this”

1:49 PM

Lucius slides over and hands you a headphone set

Valentina puts it on, listening intently

The noise upon being cleaned up is a song. It’s a mournful melody , broadcast on a loop. The shouting voice seems to have been replaced with this music. In the background , you hear the rumble of what must be a ships auxiliary power supply even though this vessel is grounded

"Hmm, so a ship with its main engine failed most likely, I wonder if they could hear us now?" "Hello stranded vessel, are you recieving?"

The choral sound gets higher in pitch in response to your message, and seems to be singing your words back to you, echoing your transmission with perfect tonal modulation. It sounds as though a whole 200 member singing group is relaying your own message back to you

Turning back to Lucius, "That's certainly strange, have we got a surface image of where it's coming from?"

"THere's a carrier down there, broken in a large grove of trees. Valley surrounded by mountains, must be amplifying whatever is going on down there. The ship is insidethis zone

"I think the question may be as to what's going on down there, plus, carriers are not well know for doing well on planets, getting them back to orbit tends to be a herculean effort! Regardless, I think we should head down for a look, let's plot a course to head in"

(theres a few km of empty space on each side of the ship. Obviously the further away you are the more of a walk it is to get there, how close did you want to get?)

(Fairly, unless there's any cause for concern on the way in, we'd probably land around 10 minutes walk away)

As you approach to within the designated landing zone, the sensors begin to pick up energy building within the downed ship. It is not clear if it is a weapon or some other system responding to the approach of another vessel

Valentina dives into her console, taking the sensor readings from the ship, trying to anticipate what the energy is coming from, meanwhile shouting, "Isabelle, not sure about that energy spike, get ready to move us clear if it's something hostile."

(lets get initiative, ship combat time!)

(Oh, well, this could get exciting)

1:08 PM

(7)

(4, this is a civilian ship, so you begin with a base of 3 CP)

(3CP Base + 2 From Star Captain -2 CP Evasive Manoeuvres (Isabelle) - 3 - Failed +2 CP Support Department: Comms -2 CP Crash Systems - 11 Vs Opposed, Program 1 -1 CP Target Systems: Weapons (Victrix) -2CP Fire One Weapon (Victrix) - Miss Does that all work before I start rolling dice?) (edited)

(CP allocation is correct!)

1:34 PM

(we can edit your entry with the results)

1:34 PM

(Rather than make a new onw)

(Thank goodness for that, yep, I'll roll some dice)

1:38 PM

(Updated, the only relevant one is the crash systems, which is opposed and we rolled an 11, if we succeed they take -1 CP) (edited)

(I failed that, opposing with a 6)

Valentina leaps across the console, towards the comms console, hoping to disrupt whatever the ship is powering up to do, "Isabelle, Evasive Manoeuvres, Victrix, Target any active weapon systems! Let's try and get low, out of its arc of fire."

(Did the target system do anything ?)

(Sadly not, as the shot it was affecting missed entirely)

The multifocal laser turret facing you fires twice, its bright beams shooting off into the afternoon air, before scattering harmlessly in the cloud banks behind you. It sparks as it tries to swivel, having trouble tracking the motions of an undamaged vessel

(Are the weapons mounted on the top of the ship?)

(yeah like dorsal turret)

8:04 AM

(so its got 360 degree coverage)

(Yep, but no cover below a certain arc of fire)

(below horizontal with its hull, i suppose, and you'd have to get close)

(3CP Base + 2 From Star Captain -2 CP Evasive Manoeuvres (Isabelle): 8 Vs 9 - Fail +2 CP Support Department: Comms -2 CP Crash Systems: 9 Opposed -2 CP Crash Systems: 8 Opposed Just to check, can you take an action twice?) "Isabelle, get us landed, if we're close enough, it won't be able to target us, then we can approach on foot" (edited)

(Yes, the only action you cannot take more than once are the general actions, i.e. Above and Beyond or Deal with a Crisis)

(Ok, perfect)

(5 and 9 for the systems, so I've vailed one)

(Ok, -1 CP again)

The ship fires twice again, the turret struggling to keep up, and only scoring a glance (18/1 20AP) on your ship as you get in too close for the turret to track you any further. It stops rotating, whatever is controlling it inside coming to the same conclusion

"Ok everyone, we're not out of the woods yet, I'd like to go and see who or what just rolled out the welcome mat."

9:31 AM

Valentina checks her equipment and pulls both the drones out of their storage slots, and walks out of the cargo bay, flanked by the drones, scanning for signs of energy or life.

The energy flare within is quieting down, and the ramp on the side of the ship begins whirring as it extends, barely touching the ground.

"Hello, anyone out there?"

There is a whine, as the door tries to rise, but it seems unable to do so under its own power , before crashing back down. Black oil, which should not be a color this deep, bubbles down the front of the door as something in the lifting gears bursts

"Well, either they tried to roll out a red carpet, or someone's trying to get out and say hello," Stepping out of the Voice of Hermes, Valentina peers upward, appreciating for the first time, the true scale of the vessel. She peers through the sensors aboard Quintus IV, hoping to get an idea of the interior close to the door. With a deft thought, she also guides Quintus II around and to the right, looking for an alternative entrance.

The engines are dead, and there is a section of pipework that has fallen out the bottom as though the ship was disemboweled when it came in to crash. The pipework has punched a hole in th deck of the ship, and you may be able to scale it to get inside

"Ok, looks like we might have an entry point over there, let's grab some climbing gear and head over for a look." Gear in hand, she starts walking around to the engines, fanning both of the Quintus drones out in opposite directions to get as much information on the layout and surrounding area as possible.

The carrier must have been shedding wreckage the entire way down from orbit. Fighter wrecks overgrown with moss and grass dot the landscape , forming the small hills in the grassy valley here. The carrier is broken backed but this entryway near the engines seems to be your best way in without forcing the side door or getting the notice of anything that might be within

Valentina tries to launch up a rope to attach to an overhanging pipe, to secure them a route up, "Everyone, keep your eyes out for any movement, we know at least that some of the automated systems are still active.

Inside the craft you emerge into a dark engineering space. The machinery here is long dead and the reactor ahead of you no longer groans with activation. A low level Hum still rattles the deck as the last dregs of the radioactives inside continue reacting, keeping emergency systems going. The bridge lies to the left outside a metal iris door. The crew commons is to the right (edited)

If there is a panel next to the iris door, Valentina will step to one side (out of the line of fire of any automated defences), and tries the door

The door opens gently , though it sticks 3/4 of the way open. No energy beams or anything harmful is fired at you from it. The bridge is empty save for a dozen or so skeletons around the consoles. Some of them are blackened from the fires that once dominated this room. A large triangular looking pyramid of shining metal sits in the center of the bridge held to chest height by crafted iron claws set into the deck

(From the elements of the design I've seen so far, is this ship pre or post scream?)

(Pre)

(Do I think that with a lot of time an effort, ie years in the making sort of thing, I might be able to get it to fly again, or do I think it is just a case of strip it for salvage/gather any available information, and whatnot?)

(its a carrier, generally anything cruiser + that ends up on a planet isnt lifting off again, its just way too big. This could be some sort of mega project to maybe get the individual pieces into space, then brought home for repairs and refit. A lot of the components simply wouldn't be able to be replicated right now, but you'd end with a modern post tech carrier probably with an extra mod or two in it not needing pretech when its all over)

(OK, I think I have a long term project, but for now...) With little sign of life evident on the Ship, Valentina steps onto the bridge, a little wary in case any defences come online, but more fascinated as to what an ancient ship like this holds in store. She starts with the pyramid, scanning it for energy or heat readings of any kind.

(Val isnt metapsi is she?)

(Nope, no psi this time)

The pyramid is giving off passive waves of cooling temperature. There is another energy source there but aside from noting its presence, it is not resolving itself on your handheld equipment.

"Hmm, I wonder..." Valentina reaches closer to see if the cooling effect increases, the closer to it's surface you get.

This seems to be the case. It never gets to the point of frostbite or any physical danger to your hand , but it unpleasant to keep it there the closer you get to actually touching the surface of the device

"Hmm, ok, strange" Grabbing the gas torch on her metatool, she'll find something flammable outside, a small bit of plant matter, and ignite it within the room (edited)

The plant burns normally, before it faintly wafts stinking smoke into the room as the last of it smolders away. The environment acts as you would normally expect it to

"Not fire suppression then," Valentina mutters to herself, she then wanders over to the engineering panel, to see what, if any system readouts are functional.

The weapons system that engaged you has power, along with the hyrdoponics bay and medical bay. The bulk of the systems seem directed toward the rear of the ship, and the literal breaking of the ship's spine at the time of the crash has sundered the connection between the panel here, and the sensors there

Valentina checks the ships records for any details of what this ship was, it's mission, it's crew, and what the strange pyramid is.

(program/int, some of the information youre asking for is not sensitive and you'll get that no matter what, but some of it is)

3:07 PM

(and some of the data is no doubt damaged )

(Program/Int 13)

The logs dont return a lot of information but you do manage to recover the orders from the last few minutes of the carrier's fall from space. Someone , likely the captain talks about securing themselves into "the anchorpoint" and preparing for impact. The order was shipwide.

"That log makes it sound as if they had some form of survival mechanism, I wonder, could it be the pyramid, some kind of cold sleep system?" She walks back over to the pyramid (Are there any panels nearby?) and reaches out towards it, as she considers, whether this could be the aforementioned anchor point?

(its on its own plinth, and there aren't any wires or cables connected to it)

2:29 PM

(if that answers anything)

(It does, yes) Valentina reaches out to touch the pyramid, to see if it will move at all

(mental save)

(20 vs 11 - Success) (edited)

You hear the singing voices, almost as though you are surrounded by them and there is a freezing gale buffeting you. There is a shriek, before you're thrown backwards 5m, sliding on the metal floor , on your back

"Whoa. Well, now we know where that signal came from." She considers that things are surpassing her fields of expertise and considers that getting a Psychic to look at this, would be well advised. (Are the claws holding it in place, or would it be possible to lift it with something rigged up to do so without touching it?) (edited)

(it just holds it from being knocked over, but you could lift it out, you'd need to find a 'something' to go between your hands and the surface of it though)

(Ok, I'll find a something)

2:54 PM

Valentia examines the plinth constructed from the claws holding it in place, and thinks lifting it should be possible if there is something to hold it. She walks back to the hole where she roped up onto the ship, she removes a section of the rope, using a metatool so it can be reattached later if need be, and assembles a sling with which to carry the pyramid, with a line passing under in two directions, and then checking its secure, lifts a little to check the weight.

The ropes can hold it, and something between it and open skin seems to be enough to stop the mysterious contact from happening again

Valentina opens up a radio channel back to the ship, "Ok, we've got a psychically active artefact, I've got it slung up so we can transport it without touching the surface, Thallia, can you and Victrix head around to the rear of the carrier, and I'll lower it down to you, I want to go and take a bit more of a look around." Valentina then heads back out towards the rope, and ties the pyramid on to lower it down.

The two of them reverently take it from you, and stow it in its pack. They begin the walk back to your ship to get it secured into the hold

Valentina heads back onto the bridge, waking around the room, checking if the skeletons have anything on them, or if everything they were wearing was burnt away by the fire, she would also try to determine if any of the crew weren't human. She would also head to the weapons console to see if it is possible to deactivated the automated defences, and see if there is a plan of the ship, to help her find her way around.

Many have the remains of robes on them , emblazoned with a symbol you're able to put together upon looking at different pieces of it on the bodies

10:42 AM

Valentina makes a note of the symbol in case she sees it again. (Any luck on the weapons or ship plan?)

The weapons are down now, disabled by the shots from your ship or from the anchor being removed. Plans are not generating. The machine is having trouble getting status from the various broken sections

"Looks like we're going exploring a little blind, but there again, what's new," Valentina steps back though the iris of the bridge, and into the crew cabins.

The belongings of the crew are scattered all over the room. There are a few more sets of robes in better condition with the symbol repeated on the back, breast pocket, and the cuffs. They are a dirty black in color, patched with light grey in places where it has ripped previously. A handful of small knives, a pistol, a beaten covered book and a handful of other personal belongings are scattered through the overturned cabin

Seeing a paper book that may predate the scream, Valentina is instantly drawn to it, she carefully picks it up, and starts to examine it, first looking at the cover and binding, then, if she thinks the book will survive it, she opens the first page.

The book seems of (relatively) recent manufacture, and you begin looking through it. It is clearly after a few pages the journal of one of the cultists aboard this ship. Details of Acastan life are scarce, depicting only what it was like as she took her chosen servants, and ordered them into whatever missionary ships could be considered spaceworthy, meant to travel the galaxy and spread her word

8:17 AM

As the Lady's power grew, so would their own.

Valentina, now very much on her guard, pockets the book, checks the pistol for age, and stows that, in case this cultist returns. (Is there a route out of the cabin beside the way we came in?)

They had been drifting for several months post scream, possibly years even, it is hard to tell with no dates. It became clear as they continued to drift that aside from basic ship functions, they were not skilled in engineering and systems began breaking down around them. Upon reaching this planet, the drive must have finally failed, as the author had written several times they were worried about. There was a lot of reference to a psychic traveling with them, that none of them trusted, and a growing sense of unease about the pyramid artifact they carried. They likewise were told it was an anchorpoint, but its function was not something they divined the answer to before the crash

8:22 AM

(not with how we entered the ship no)

Valentina radios over to the ship, "It seems improbable, but there may still be someone alive, there certainly was just before the ship came down, although I'm not sure how they would have survived the landing." (Were the pistol or knives anything out of the ordinary?) (edited)

(Not really, they'd be antique now but nothing aside from normal crew gear)

Valenina slips the weapons into her pack, perhaps they will form a good first gift to the museum. She then heads back out into the engineering space, and looks for a route through into the wider engine bay or the hydroponics bay.

The engineering space has a door that leads into hydroponics. The engineering space and engines are a mess, flattening almost entirely upon their impact with the ground. The engines were the heaviest part of the ship and when the carrier entered atmosphere it got dragged down stern first, like a descending spear

Examining the engines more closely, she looks for any sections that are liable to deteriorate if they are left alone, if not, she'll next move through into hydroponics.

The engines can't really seem to get worse than they are right now, another few years of rusting here will not trouble them much

8:36 AM

Hydroponics only had a few tables remain upright during the crash, and the ceiling here has been breached. Trickles of rainwater from above has let colonies of moss and mushrooms expand rapidly, spreading over most of the walls and floor. Some of them have grown almost as tall as you- clearly of Acstan forest breed judging by their current size

(Would I have any idea if these are edible?)

(They are edible)

Valentina takes some samples for research later, with any luck, it'll be a useful addition to Heras' food production issues. With one last look around, she is determined to come back, and see what can be done with this ancient behemoth, but that is a task for another time. She steps back out into the sunlight, and heads back to the ship, taking photos as she goes.

(3xp, 5000 credits, and we have some of the mushroom spores)

(Perfect, thanks, and that was a really fun place to explore, although the idea of it belonging to the still lady, probably bothers me more out of character than in, but there we are. Also a level up, and as I've noticed people putting up a changelog, here's an attempt at one, Level 4 -> 5 Tinker Level 1 (Gives 3 points to Fix, therefore Fix 0 -> 1) Trade 1 -> 2 as we've been doing a lot of that. 1SP Banked HP 22 -> 34 Goals Updated) "Isabelle, shall we, you never know, we might make Bergassa by the new year!" Valentina looks back to her console, and starts to plot the spike to Grima. (edited)

(yeah we're gently asking for one now, since the character advancement rules get a bit convoluted with all the homebrew/not everything in the book being streamlined, the mods cant see anyones sheets, so it here helps me get another set of eyes on things)

(Sounds very sensible, let me know if anything there looks odd, but I think we're right)

1

(Everything looks good to me1)

(I’ll get a report and map together tonight. Don’t think this ones been explored yet)

2

(1 day of downtime) The ship judders as the spike drive powers down at the edge of Grima space. The planets here are four in number and all too close to the angry red sun of this system to host life. There is a dense asteroid field forming a ring, conjoined with ice crystals around the third planet. the fourth and closest planet to the system edge is a gas giant, rich in Helium-3 and other rare gasses

(Administer 23/90) "Isabelle, let's go for a little tour around the system, we might as well get records in case anyone wants to come here in future, and you never know, something might pop up." Valentina leans back in her chair, and looks intently towards the monitor as scan results come in.

As the scanner returns slowly come back in, it appears that there has never been any ship passage or mining efforts made in this system. The planets here are barren, but are as untouched as they come. A more direct survey on the planet surfaces themselves would be needed to see just what they contain, if anything at all

"Ok, lets make a note of this system and head back later, let's plot a course out to Thorgunna."

(Same thing. Seen. Just takes. A lot to generate stuff)

(Yep, no rush, sorry for brushing past the last system but it feels like the IC path that Valentina would see, and I definitely want to visit later!)

(1 more day of downtime) Arriving in Thorgunna, the planet spins along its orbit in the habitation zone of the local sun. The world is awash in signal traffic, and dozens of orbiting satellites upload and download incredible quantities of information. A large space station keeps watch over the planet, guns trained toward the void

(Administer 24/90) "Well, this is definitely somewhat advanced, as we've not been hailed, lets see if we can hail them." Valentina opens a comms channel, "This is Valentina Spiros, envoy of the Elysium Protectorate, are you receiving me?"

"Valentina Spiros, welcome to Thorgunna, the place where all pleasures of the mind, body, and soul come to make their home. Welcome, welcome! " the voice playing through the speakers is perfectly modulated, warm, and its tones are honeyed. It's like someone found the most ideal and pleasing voice to speak with you and is replying in kind

"Thank you for your warm welcome, might we come into land?"

"Please! Approach the platform, you are clear to dock!"

9:50 AM

The master alert silences, as the station guns abort their weapons tracking

"Will do, thanks." Valentina closes the comm link, "OK, lets head in, I have a few reservations, but lets see what they have to say."

The ship is welcomed into dock and the dock is cleared of non-essential spacers. A small floating sphere, essentially a bulked out eyebot hovers at the ramp, waiting for it to open

Valentina stands atop the ramp, and presses a button on her compad to swing it down, stepping down as she does so.

The eyebot gains a meter of elevation to speak with you at a more level height, the perfect amount of lift so there is no neck movement needed to look at it, at all. "Hello! Welcome to Thorgunna Station. I am Qetesh, and am pleased to meet you"

"Thank you Qetesh, I'm Valentina, pleased to meet you as well, shall we?" As she gestures onto the platform.

The small robot bobs gently, before turning and buzzing onto the dock, where a large map of the planet below is displayed. "This station is your gateway to a world of personal pampering, pleasure, and luxurious living. Each settlement down below offers something different, and all would be happy to make your stay here a truly pleasant one"

"Well, thank you very much, I also have trade interests in the surrounding areas, would there be someone here I could talk to about establishing trade relations?"

You would have better luck with that in one of the settlements down there, they all deal with different things and have different needs"

"Very well, could you recommend landing coordinates to me?"

"You have merely to pick one of the settlements below,and all will be provided"

"Very well then, the house of the mind sounds pleasant, may I go there?"

"Of course. I will let them know you are coming" He gestures to a very modern looking passenger lighter, this one actually set up to comfortably carry people and not just serve as a metal box to fall from the sky in. It is painted an electric blue with bright yellow ivy and flowers daubed across its hull. The pilot is an expert system, silent in its duties rather than a flesh and blood human

"Thank you," just as they depart, Valentina types a message back to the ship, Just headed down onto planet, shouldn't be more than a few hours, will check in in 2 hours to confirm.

The ship confirms and locks down in dock. (anyone going down with you?)

(I would probably have asked Thallia along)

Nekosmash pinned a message to this channel. 6/10/2020 10:02 AM

You and Thallia sit in the comfy plush seats that conform to perfectly cradle your back right away. You don't need to spend any muscle power or apply any microtension at all to hold yourself up. "I...I need one of these" Thallia says, reclining gently. There is a gentle bump as the special lighter clears the station, heading down to the planet below. The House of the Mind is located at the foot of a dense section of forest along a warm saltwater sea on each side. THere is more jungle to the south made of the same uniformly dense trees.

10:02 AM

The settlemetn seems to be large, as in only one city sized building, and a landing pad on the roof begins to flash. The building itself is made of a light colored wood, with blue shingles for a roof and no signs of guards

"It really is remarkably comfortable, we should try and get a set for our next ship!" Valentina admires the beauty of the area as they fly in, and upon landing will step out to breath in the fresh air once again.

There are no guards on the pad, as you come to land and the ramp opens but another of the floating spherical bots is there. It bobs gently, lights flashing along its outside, and a large viewscreen is mounted to the front

"Hello there, where might I find someone with whom to discuss trade?"

THe bot bobs once, and seems to indicate following him, as a large door opens at the end of the lauchpad

10:46 AM

A refreshing smell of clean cotton, spring rain, and lavender mist wafts out, and the soft hum of a harp being played gets louder as you approach the building. Inside, you emerge on the inside balcony level, overlooking a very relaxing spa like experience below. Hundreds of people bathe in heated tubs, relax in pod like chairs, and still others seem to be wired in to full body simulations. Some thrash and dodge violently, while others are serene and still, you would hardly know they were alive if you didn't see the soft hike and fall of their breath

"Well, this does seem a remarkable place, do you have a map for us to find our way around?"

(I can make a building one , let me find a program to use)

(I don't actually need one OOC, it's just a case of knowing what they give me locations for, ie a reception with an actual person! Should such a thing be possible!)

(Okay, i can do that!)

11:00 AM

The bot leads you down a winding set of spiral stairs where an information desk made from a mix of medium and light woods is set up against the wall. Two clerks , both human, sit behind the desk. The electronics are a pristine white and are very clean, and their desks are absent of the little notes, computer tricks, and binders one would normally expect administrators to have. The space is somehow both heavily used, and factory fresh all at once. A large tri-folding piece of paper with a map is available from a large stack, several locations are identified.

11:00 AM

-Soak Tanks -Mental Stimulation Array -The den of consciousness expansion -Talking to your mind, about your brain

"Hello there, I've just arrived on planet, I'm a visitor from Heras, could you possibly tell me a little about this place, do I have to pay for anything here for instance?"

"A stay here is 1,000 credits per day, but you have use of all three facilities on this planet, and as many of the amenities as you can eat, drink, inhale, or interphase with. We do charge a docking fee of 500 credits a night for ships, but minor repairs and fuel are covered in this expense. "

11:11 AM

"Here in the temple of the mind, we are here to help you relax, break down barriers , create, and reconcile with logical inconsistencies in your mind. We are a favorite hideaway for stumped writers, overworked executives, and those who generally find that their day to day needs required very heavy amounts of thinking and the flow of ideas"

"That is remarkable, well, I'll certainly return when I need time off, but on this occasion I'm on business, I'm attempting to determine if this planet would be agreeable to a trade agreement, any idea who I might talk to about that?"

"There could be several people, the spa manager here might be a good start, but it would help if I knew what you had planned to bring here"

"I haven't any specific plans, for me this is about opening a dialogue and finding out what you need, but certainly, the spa manager sounds like a good start."

She nods, and places a call. Interestingly, she has a Loremaster device on her wrist

(What's a loremaster device?)

(its a special taros cyberware, basically its a direct interface device, can use a compad or computers without touching them, results displayed on your eyelids)

2:08 PM

(so she either visited Gudrun a very long time ago before the scream, or something else is going on here)

1

(Oo, nice, that sounds like a fun device to have!) Valentina stands and waits patiently for the manager to arrive, making a mental note that more cyberware may soon be worthwhile.

The spa manager arrives and likewise has one of the devices implanted, she introduces herself and brings you off to a room set behind the information desk. A few employee files are moved aside from their scattered places on the table and she invites you to sit

2:45 PM

"I understand you're here looking to try to move some goods"

"I am, yes, I run trade routes around the sector, and thought I'd visit to see if you were interested in the idea of interstellar trade?"

"I see. I'm not sure what we could sell here that would be of benefit to you outside of our personal services, but we're constantly on the hunt for sources of luxury goods"

"Well, we can certainly provide you with luxury goods, us there anything you produce on the planet that could be sold back?"

She sighs, sitting back on her comfortable chair "That's just it. We haven't had the need to actually make anything, not for the time we've been open at least. The last few years have been a little lean, but we've always had enough tourists"

"Ok, are you aware of any natural resources that we could start to export from here? Your within the habitable zone, would it be possible to produce foodstuffs? Or given how technologically advanced your planet is, do you have the facility to build more, which could then be exported?" (edited)

"Our exclusivity is how we can charge the prices we do, unfortunately we're not looking to franchise at this time. You would be hard pressed to find anyone willing to give up this life of luxury to farm or mine. Perhaps you simply make us your last stop, and you return home with an empty hold and credits?"

7:57 PM

(not that you're not free to set up your own holdings here and do stuff yourself, based on what theyre saying)

"That sounds like a good suggestion, with your permission, I would like to establish a small outpost here, that could later be developed over the coming months, to possibly facilitate some production, but failing that, an empty hold for once may be nice. I look forward to doing business!"

"I suppose we can't really oppose you doing as you wish with the unclaimed parts of the surface, though we ask that you keep some distance to our various spa environments here. The construction work and the pollution would disturb many of our more sensitive patrons"

"I have no wish to do anything to disrupt your business, I would like to build to the west of the mountains behind "The Seat of the Soul," where there is an inlet, I'd like to set something up there, if that would be ok?"

"It should be fine there. We are of course open to any sort of recreational imports you'd like to bring in, though at the moment we're not selling anything"

"Absolutely, and thank you for your time, with any luck we will be able to visit again, when I'm in need of some time off!"

9:33 AM

Valentina goes to stand, unless she has anything more to say.

For now, all that said on the matter has been said. (3xp, 5000 credits)

(Perfect thanks, does that generate a trade report? and does that fulfil either the investigate another culture, or discover a new faction endeavours?)

(It does not generate a trade report, because they're not selling anything right now and wont until holdings are laid down. It fulfills investigate another culture)

(Wonderful) As they depart the station, Valentina looks back on the pristine world with hope, that such a pleasant place exists and her initial misgivings were misplaced. She plots the spike route out to Bergassa, pleased that her destination would soon be reached, and looking forward to establishing good relations with their nearest neighbour

The SCAF fleet lights its engines as you hit the edge of the Bergassa system, and the colossus begins rolling out its countless broadside guns. Several master alarms and weapons lock warnings begin chiming, though nothing has been fired yet. The communications panel chimes as a message is waiting to be put through. (2 days of downtime in between, since Balquis is in the way)

(Yep, Administer 26/90) "Hello SCAF Vessels, this is Valentina Spiros of the Elysium Protectorate onboard the Voice of Hermes, who am I speaking to?"

"This is Silvano Mazzio, aboard the Colossus. Come about and cut your engines. A video link will be established with your permission"

"By all means, we'll await your link"

For a moment, you see an image of a man with shaggy brown hair, and goggles. He wears a fur lined coat, over a black set of secure clothing. Then he is suddenly gone. "From the Elysium Protectorate" you hear from behind you. "Nothing personal kid, I was never the biggest fan of Cyrus"

"I thought we were having a video call, but nice to meet you in person. I'll be perfectly honest with you, but I wasn't either, happily enough for both of us, he died in an orbital strike that he called in far too close to himself. We currently have an acting regent in place, but we are approaching our future with far more debate, which will hopefully allow us to avoid some of the errors of our past."

"It's an old trick of mine. I used it quite a bit during the Remnant War. Once I see a location, even through video or picture, I can get there. I've been keeping tabs on things over there, we're neighbors after all. It's nice to know the people coming after him are better than the ones who came before. I have been happy seeing all of you grow. So, the rudest and most direct question first, What are you doing out here?"

"By all means, directness can work well, I have come out to see if you would be interested in trade relations, I have been attempting to expand EPs horizons, and here seems like a sensible place to start." (edited)

"I see. Wel, you're going to be a bit disappointed right now. We've only recently started exploring my grand creation down there. I've sculpted the landmass with my incredible power, but all I did was jump start processes that were already going. "

"And is there no space within that for working with your neighbors?"

"That isn't what I said" Silvano quips, pacing around the bridge of your ship. "But what I am saying is we don't know what is even on our planet right now that we could trade with. I have my people looking into it. Since we do not know the world ourselves, it would be irresponsible of me to allow the holdings of others to dominate the landscape before we get a chance ourselves"

12:01 PM

"Its the whole reason most of us ended up as part of SCAF, one way or another"

"Ah, very well then, might we agree that when you are more prepared, and you wish to commence trade, you contact me directly, and we can establish a mutually beneficial agreement?"

"When we know what's there" he nods, "until then, I'd be selling out the trust my people have in me

"That seems very reasonable," Valentina reaches into a cabinet on the wall, and takes out two glasses, and a bottle of fine liquor, "This is from Terezhino, might we drink to a bright future?"

"Ah Tereziho. Mr. Whittaker is well I hope, have you been?"

12:10 PM

"The beaches there are beautiful"

"I've never been personally, but I've been told of it's beauty, I would most certainly like to visit in time, to our health!" Clinks glass

"To your health" He says, showing warmth for the first time since you've arrived. "You should consider a visit. Being in space for a long time like this, sometimes you need to feel the sand under your toes"

"I most certainly would like to, although I've spent so much of my life in space that I've become all too accustomed to it, what was your life like before you came here?"

"Before I came to Bergasa? or before the Scream?'

"Well, both I suppose?"

"Untrained street urchin, adopted by a master that took pity on me. She got me to a place where I could learn to not torch myself. I was able to teleport short distances, and you can I am sure figure out how crimes are very easy when you can do that.

2:30 PM

"Things were quiet until the expedition to Gudrun, after the war. I was in cold sleep when the scream happened, so I was spared. I woke up, and I've been fighting ever since. Helldivers, Underhill, the Remnant, the shapers, and everyone in between. "

"I'd imagine it's quite a boon, although, I haven't shown any exceptional abilities, you never know, I may be a late bloomer, in the mean time, the rest of us have to get by on charm and good luck, but there we have it, I'm glad that after all that you've possibly got somewhere to call home, and somewhere that is hopefully relatively safe."

He sets his drink down, the glass now empty. "Safe is something I hope for too. We lost far too many lives against the Shapers. Too many friends and too many ships. We're all tired. I'm sure your people are too"

2:36 PM

"The Protectorate has had its share of its own problems while all this has happened

"We have indeed, hopefully, with time, peace in the sector will be achievable. Would you care for another, or have you planets to build?"

"I'll take another" he smiles "one planet is enough for now, though I'd be willing to lend some aid if youre having an issue with one of yours"

Valentina pours another, "Well, we're still trying to survey much of the surrounding areas, so I'm not sure yet, but if you don't mind my directness, what are you able to change?"

"The entire surface of a planet, if needed, but the bigger the change the less control I have over it. For example, on this planet, I was able to shape the landmass, and define boundaries for biomes, but I have no control over what life might have developed within"

2:54 PM

(the planet looks like that hunger games clock from above, but he has no idea whats in each zone)

"Well, that's certainly impressive, some minor reworking to make worlds more easily habitable would certainly be appreciated, but we should discover more about them in their natural state first."

"There was nothing here before we arrived. It was hard to find a planet where I wouldn't be forever changing an entire way of life by reshaping things there. Bergasa was barren before we arrived

"Well, I hope if we have a somewhat more agreeable start, but without preexisting life, would that be suitable for minor alterations?"

"It would depend on the scope" he says. "But yes, it would be suitable"

As Valentina finishes her second drink, "That would be very pleasant, well we shall see you either for trade or a little world building, or even another drink if you're in the area."

"Let me know where to go. I can be there faster than you'd think" he winks. and places the glass down, sterilizing it with a bit of telekinetic heat.

"You must teach me that trick one day," she says with a slight smirk

He thinks for a moment before vanishing, and re appearing a moment later. He has a long case in his hand. “This is for you. This is the first drink I’ve had with anyone in a long time and this is a token of friendship. Open it once you leave the system”

"Thank you, I look forward to finding out what it is, also, just a moment." Valentina walks down to the cargo bay, and digs through the various bottles of spirits, finding a very smooth and inviting variant of whiskey. "This is for you, so you have something to drink and remember your friends in the outside world."

He smiles "Thank you. I'm sorry you came all the way out here for not what you'd hoped to get. "

"True, but we have strong plans for the future, that gives us all hope, we will see you again soon, I'm sure."

"I think so too" and with that, there is a momentary blink, and Silvano is gone

"Well, that was productive I think, Isabelle let's head out of system, I'll plot is a course back to Heras"

9:41 AM

As soon as they are out of the system, Valentina turns her attention to the long case.

Inside, Silvano has given over one of his Fiat-Luxe Shear Rifles. The casing, energy cell catch, and barrel mouth have been elegantly carved, though there is a spare casing inside along with programming equipment to make your own furniture for the weapon.

11:28 AM

(they're +2 hit and +2 damage, and are generally just held to be really nice looking guns, each one is a work of art)

Valentina looks at it for a while in wonder, and looks to the equipment for designing the furniture. She sits for a while, sketching out a variety of designs, before settling on a dark wood furniture kit with a gold inlay, a little flashy perhaps, but well put together. (edited)

12:08 PM

(8 Days back to Heras?)

(yes, 8 days)

(OK, Administer 34/90)

Valentina returns to a calm Heras, though with news that the entire northern half of the planet has aligned itself formerly with the Protectorate

Valentina would first present her report to Podron Ferriman, giving details of her time on Thorgunna and Bergassa, as well as presenting the pyramid, and suggesting that contacting the psychic academy would be worthwhile to have it identified.

(did you want to be present for that? Otherwise I can mention it in their faction channel)

(I don't particularly need to be for them being told, but if they come to Heras to examine it, I would then like to be present)

Valentina then takes a journey down to the shipyards, to place an order for her new free merchant, the Phobos.

Valentina heads back to the bridge and plans her expedition out into UNW space, the route will be Tecmessa, Erdosa/Korra-s, Alcibiades, Thjodhild, Mariam, Gudrun.

(What are you planning for UNW space. Just trying to figure out what to have ready)

(When I actually arrive, unless I immediately get attacked, which I think is unlikely, I'll be looking to lower trade frictions and formally introduce EP and the Guild as trading partners of the UNW. For planets before that, it's exploration as usual, along with taking anything that isn't nailed down!) (edited)

(It’s going to be right to Gudrun then, I’m not going to be the one to start hostile takings on foreign planets) (I’ll get to you on downtime days once I have a map in front of me tonight)

(I was using a little hyperbole, which didn't translate well in text, I'm more interested in finding out what, if anything is alive on the intervening planets, and whether they would be interested in trade, pretty much the same process as before, trying to get a lay of the land, if that works for you?) (edited)

(And for Tecmessa, I'd also like to see how the rest of their revolution went)

(Sure thing we can do that)

Nekosmash pinned a message to this channel. 6/14/2020 3:24 PM

(its 2 days to Tecmessa, stopping at Radji along the way since, its intervening between the two planets and you're forced to)

(Ok, Administer 36/90, I've got nothing in particular I want to do at Radji, so just a refuel and pick up as we drop into Tecmessa space?)

(sure) Tecmessa is changed, as you enter system space. Although there are no ships in orbit still, the platforms have all fallen to rebel hands, and even without opening communication channels it can be seen that at least two settlements on the planet surface have been devastated with the platform weapons. Flocks of cargo craft, system runners, and cargo capsules flock between the surface and all 3 platforms

"Well, looks like this may not have been an entirely smooth transition of power, but let's see," Valentina opens up a comm link and attempts to hail the platforms, "Hello, this is Valentina Spiros, are you recieving me?

"Spiros, yes, we read you, this is platform 2. What news from the outside?" The voice sounds familiar, faintly like the rebel leader you'd helped secure the bridge on one of the stations just a month aho

"Good to hear a friendly voice, well, since we were last here, I've been running the trade routes, and generally scouting the surrounding areas, how's it all been going here?"

"We are now the world government. They would not agree to our terms, and the world felt the fury of all the workers they exploited. We now have peace, for there are none left to oppose us

"Is everything on the ground in ruin?"

"There are some hamlets growing our food that were just as exploited as us, but all evidence of the former upper crust has been destroyed"

"Very well, have you plans to repopulate the planet?"

"Want to come aboard and help me add to that number" he says over the comms, doing his absolute best to woo you, or make a very poor attempt at doing so.

3

2

"Personally, I'd rather like a profitable exchange of resources," she says, possibly a little more flirtatiously than she'd first planned, and sounding a little surprised at herself, "How about a little meeting to find out how we might help each other out."

"Alright alright, we can have dinner before our date. I'm on the second platform which we've used as a logistics and admin hub. I'll meet you at the portside docking airlock, and of course your crew can come aboard and stretch their legs, all that stuff too

"Dinner it is then, we shall see you shortly." Valentina closes the comm, and provides Isabelle with directions to the allocated docking airlock.

Valentina will then head to her quarters, and attempt to make herself, a little more presentable. She first removes the layers of armour that she ordinarily wears while on duty in preparation for combat, and exchanges that for a well fitted armoured under suit, and over that, a long flowing dark blue dress, hiding the fact she is wearing armour of any sort. She slings her shear rifle across her back, more for show than anything else, and heads out to the cargo bay, ready to step out into the airlock.

The airlock cycles along with the one inside the station before the hiss of air announces a solid seal on both ends. (Anyone else getting off with you?)

(They'd all be invited to spend time off the ship, essentially shore leave after a fashion, but I would ask that at least one person stays on the ship to keep an eye on it, but that person can be changed as they will) (edited)

the group pulls straws for the first watch, and everyone else prepares to disembark. The rebel leader, along with three of his freedom fighters turned marines are waiting to greet you. They have void carbines modified into submachine gun patterns, held low on slings, and each of them is wearing mismatched engineering and spacer uniforms

"Good afternoon all, pleased to see you again, with a pleasant amount less shooting than last time!"

"Indeed there is. We were hoping you'd come back. As you can see, things here have changed somewhat since you've been back, perhaps for the better"

"It's good to be back, now I believe somebody mentioned dinner, where would you suggest is the finest place to eat on this platform?"

"I'd think that would be the former captain's suite, which is mine now" he smiles "We're going to be dining there, I have evertthing being laid out, but I didn't want to make you walk through the platform on your own"

"Sounds like you've come out of this reasonably well and very good of you to come and collect me, I'm sure I'd have made it, but the company is always appreciated, shall we?" As she gestures towards the door.

Passing through the endless corridors of the station, you pass technicians and other rebels wearing mixes of military and technician uniforms. Most of their weapons are either home made, or recently looted. "I'm sure you have questions. I'd be happy to answer them on our way, and during the meal"

"I most certainly do, perhaps we might start with how many people are left, by the sounds of it, the conflict became messy?" (edited)

"We're not sure about the surface, There's about 15,000 between all three stations and the system ships crews. It's been difficult to get information from down there"

"Hmm, you said that this station was being used for communication, what have the others been designated for?"

"Defense, both from the planet, and from space. There are some former Federal holdouts down there. They took over a surface to space missile silo and tried to launch a rocket up at Tecmessa 3 once, but we were able to shoot it down, and bombard the silo from orbit"

1:30 PM

"They haven't tried that since"

"And are they at occupational capacity, or is there space for more people if needed, also, are you producing food up here in any way?"

"We have a few hydroponics bays in each station, and its enough to give everyone a meal a day, but its thin, and we have to ration"

"Ok, so more food production would definitely be worthwhile, how about air and water onboard?"

"Enough air, and we have enough water for the hydroponics, its rationed about as well as food, we reclaim every drop we can, but the people here would like to stop drinking their own piss eventually. Fear not, our dinner is actual water, never before circulated"

"Well, that is encouraging in itself. What is the situation to be when it comes to governance, presumably, this shortly after a revolution, you, as the ranking member of the military, are in charge, but what is your plan going forward?"

"First, we get the resource situation under control. Won't matter who sits in the shiny chair until then. " He keeps talking as you enter a well apportioned dining room that was once the officers mess.

"Very well then, as I expressed the last time I was here, I hope to form a prosperous relationship with this planet, so how might I help you?" (edited)

"Please, sit. More than anything we're looking for off world food, the farmland below is going to need serious care to restore, and beyond that, most of the machinery we would need to restore it likewise went up in the bombardment. We're going to need to collect the survivors and form them into larger townships, so there are fewer areas to manage, and we can coordinate resource distribution more easily. There are a few green belts that remain down there"

"Why thank you, well, I certainly have a suggestion for food, how about we establish one of the stations as a trade hub, with your permission, I'd set up a base of operations there, and we could use that to incentivise wider trade? As for setting up townships, probably best to set them up near natural resources, but then use distribution centres there to draw people in?"

"You seem to have an eye for organizing the surface level of all of this. As long as the resources come in, you'd have essentially free reign to help organize things. "

8:16 AM

"We'd need to see some kind of consistent results though for me to grant you any special diplomatic immunities"

"I'd happily help organise things here, and I think this planet could definitely become very prosperous. I'd also like to ask, would you agree to become a part of the Elysium Protectorate?"

"We just threw off the shackles of another regime, but we could become partners. For now, thats all I can commit to. "

"Very well, I would like to leave an offer on the table for you, should you or a future government wish to join the Elysium Protectorate, you may do so, and will be afforded a seat at the council, as others have been."

"If the situation here ever changes we might consider it. The people here would never accept something like that now. We aren't making the exchange as equals, but as a state you would have to uplift

"True, but I would prefer that you know that the option is available to you, should you wish to take us up on it." Unless he has anything else to say, Valentina will make small talk for the rest of dinner, and then make her excuses to return to the ship.

(Its not on the trade sheet yet, but a report generated for them based on what you did)

1:23 PM

(3xp, 5000 credits)

(Perfect!) Assuming all the crew make it back safely by the next morning, Valentina will plot a course out to Korra-s.

(Level 5 -> 6 HP 34 -> 35 Talk -> 2 Fix -> 2)

(Last I saw you only had 1 SP banked from L4->L5, did you have one banked from Level 4?) (edited)

(There was one left over from gaining tinker at level 5) (edited)

(Perfect!

)

Korra-S remains the metal raining planet it is, no real changes seem to have occurred here and there is no evidence of recent system traffic aside from your own ship.

Valentina notes this, and is pleased by the systems continued existence as a stepping stone, as she plots the route on to Alcibiades.

(For the 2 jumps, 6 days downtime? So 42/90 Administer?)

(Between Korra and here?)

(No, from Tecmessa to Alcibiades?)

4:46 PM

(Via Korra, but just a refueling stop)

(Ah gotcha yeah that’s good. I’ll@let you know what’s there when I’m in from grilling)

(Sound good, enjoy grilling!)

Alcibiades is a world in recovery when you make orbit there. Gone are its orbital defenses, and a large scar from a nuclear weapon defaces the forest below where the Tenebrian Remnant had once sought to bring its unbraked fleet coordination AI online. The base is heavily irradiated, lethal even in protective suits. Other smaller survivor communities seem to be popping up here, but none of the settlements look to be communicating with one another, or aware of what is in space.

(Are there any known methods for clearing radiation, beside wandering off and hoping that it gets better?)

(lots of chemicals and scrubbing, and for a base this big it would take hundreds of people and probably hundreds of tons of supplies)

7:42 AM

(theres also probably not much left there since it was ground zero for a thermonuclear weapon detonation)

7:42 AM

(aside from the skeleton of the buildings)

(Fair enough, I just thought an old AI lab sounded like a fun place to explore, perhaps some other day!) "OK, I'm not sure the lab is explorable, and given the inhabitants appear to be living happily enough without our interference, I'll leave any thoughts of a Prometheus style project to the UNW, given the relative proximities. Onto Thjodhild I suggest."

Radioactive World Whether due to a legacy of atomic warfare unhindered by nuke snuffers or a simple profusion of radioactive elements, this world glows in the dark. Even heavy vacc suits can filter only so much of the radiation, and most natives suffer a wide variety of cancers, mutations and other illnesses without the protection of advanced medical treatments. Maneaters The locals are cannibals, either out of necessity or out of cultural preference. Some worlds may actually eat human flesh, while others simply require the rendering of humans into important chemicals or pharmaceutical compounds, perhaps to prolong the lives of ghoul overlords. This cannibalism plays a major role in their society.

8:11 AM

a brief scouting report generates as you enter local space, though it does not appear an actual expedition down to the surface has ever been mounted

"Ok, this looks like an interesting one, although by all accounts the locals are not too friendly, and the environment may be a little hostile as well. Let's take a surface scan first, and see what the place looks like."

(Are any of those areas populated, and what do the radiation levels look like?)

(no ones landed, just scanned from orbit and some rough pictures taken. Theres evidence of habitation, but its not clear what concentrations might be where, or if things are permanent)

(Any energy signatures or indications of radiation from our survey scanner?)

(the blackened areas would be highly radioactive)

(OK) "Lets's take a closer look at the Northwest area of the planet, there looks like an ancient stucture of some kind, and it's relatively far away from the radiation, but I'd recommend Vacc Suits Regardless"

there is a series of ruins in the shadow of the western mountains, and it looks like a village has been abandoned. THere is mild radiation nearby, but enough to let you walk around for a while before needing to withdraw.

"Ok, let's set down a fairly close, we don't want too far to run if we have to leg it for any reason. Once they're set down, Valentina will pull two Quintus drones, and as the cargo ramp comes down, she steps forward, flanked by both drones, and takes a look around, as well as performing a full spectrum scan with Quintus IV.

There is radiation here, and the buildings all have a heavy dose of it on the exposed walls. There are no bodies, or skeletons out int he street, nor shadows showing anyone was flash burned or vaporized while standing in front of buildings

Valentina steps out and starts heading towards the ruins, having both drones doing patrols overhead to give her as much cover as possible, and to see if there are any locals, cannibal or otherwise in the area.

Currently , there are no lifesigns, but the background radiation and generally otherwise unpleasant conditions here make instruments finnicky and unreliable.

8:04 AM

Most of the settlement seems built around some kind of single floor longhouse, that even in this deathless state is still highly ornamented with bone, teeth, and other hunt trophies

"Ok, let's grab some samples, it would be good to check with the lab how irradiated this place is, and if it's going to soon be habitable again for a prolonged period."

A few soil samples from different places along the village are taken for analysis later. The earth is dry and flaky underneath the thin crust of scraggly grass

10:56 AM

Bone chimes sing in the wind as the breeze blows through the village, sounding dull outside your protective suits

"OK, We've got something hopefully of use, lets head over to another site to get a second set of samples." Valentina starts heading back to the ship, continuing the drones sweeping pattern.

(What site were you going to next then?)

Valentina marks out the tower to the North East of the crater as the next target, as that looks like one of the tallest buildings still standing, and directs Isabelle to it. (edited)

The tower looks to be some kind of lighthouse, either for sailing ships or something in space. If it had power it’s dormant now. Banners of tattered cloth and large fires burn near the tower as a large band of tribal looking warriors has made their camp here

"Ok, we've heard reports that the locals may not be too friendly, but I'd like to see if we can open up some form of communication with them, can you land us a short distance outside the camp? With regard to who comes out on this one, it up to you, as we're not quite sure what we're facing."

Isabelle choses to remain aboard, as your pilot being killed makes getting offworld far more difficult Everyone else is resolved to get out and help, both in securing the site, and protecting the ship if needed. The ship landing, even a moderate distance away from the tower is hard to miss, and as it lands there is already evidence of a group on the march to meet you. Their progress through the intervening woods is not quiet, and many of them are shouting or chanting as they crunch through the undergrowth.

Valentina steps out onto the scrub, moving slowly towards the woodland, but not so far as to be away from the ship, as before she is flanked by a pair of Quintus drones, and has the beautifully designed shear rifle in hand. She listens carefully and scans the woodland to try and get an idea of their numbers, as well as what language the chanting is in.

The language might have its roots in common, but it is different enough to be either a Terran language you're not familiar with, or something new that has sprung up in the time since the Scream

"OK, I don't recognise the language, have any of you an idea as to what they might be saying?"

“I’m hearing a bit of aafrikans. Maybe a bit of English. Sounds like they’re getting close. “ The cracking branches and crunching undergrowth stops after a moment as the first of the tribals comes into view

As the band moves slowly through the bushes, she stays at the back. As the band pushes from the tree line, she remains within the underbrush watching and listening to the newcomers, spear held tightly.

"They do, no chance that you happen to speak any Afrikaans is there?"

“I can try. Maybe some of them know enough of common to speak. We might have a translator torc aboard the ship. I’ll go look”

She just remains hidden from sight listening to these off-worlders, waiting to learn their purpose or intent here before taking any action.

"That sounds good, in the meantime, we'll keep our distance and try to get an idea of numbers"

(Lets get a notice/wis and we can add +2 for the drone)

(9)

There are 40 tribals here in a loose pack. The drone shows they’ve all come from the same direction and it’s various sensor modes do not reveal any flanking or outrider groups.

She watches cautiously, noting the woman’s rifle and the two drones overhead, but also not sensing an aggressive posture or any hostile acts yet from her.

"Ok, looks like they're approaching without any ill will, where's Lucius with that torc? Well, we're all here anyway, so let's give English a pop first." Speaking with a loud and clear voice, trying to be heard above the chanting, "Hello, I am Valentina, are you able to understand me?"

She watches the woman’s reaction to the approaching tribe and sees no ill intent yet. Hearing the woman speak in English, she cautiously steps from the treeline behind her fellow tribesman.... (edited)

(I feel like that’s been proven so far )

(Very cautious, but FIIIINE :p )

9:21 AM

It’s clear immediately that she’s different from the rest. Pale skin, red hair, she does not look like the others. But she is still clothed the same—wearing a minimal amount of leather strap armor, decorated in exotic feathers and talismans. Miscellaneous large bones, some perhaps appearing humanoid, have been fashioned into a makeshift breast plate. She holds a spear firmly in one hand, its blade seeming slightly better crafted than might be expected for tribals. Two small knives are tucked into her belt. Her face is covered with what appears to be some kind of war paint, and there are tribal tattoos on her upper arms. (edited)

9:24 AM

She speaks in surprisingly clear English, with a hint of the tribal accent. Blunt and to the point “why have you come here, Valentina?”

"We were exploring the planet for signs of life, given that large areas of the planet are uninhabitable by our recconing, hence we were taking samples and looking for signs of life" (edited)

“And yet here we stand. What was your intent for our uninhabitable planet, Valentina?”

"There was no particular intent, it lay on my route to Gudrun, and as an explorer, I try to expand our knowledge of any planets that we come into contact with."

“I see. So you come as an explorer, Valentina? Not a Scout coming to conquer or a diplomat to trick and steal?” She’s visibly relaxing her posture. Her spear is held upright, not pointed at Valentina.

"I have lead diplomatic missions in the past, I will not hide that, and I will happily tell you of the place I come from, but if you have no interest in that, then I'll not bore you with it. Primarily I am here to learn."

She nods, believing her answers. “Then perhaps you would care to join us for dinner, Valentina. I’m sure the Chief would like to meet you. You can learn about us, and perhaps then tell about where you hail from.”

"I'm sure dinner would be wonderful, perhaps as we walk back, you might tell me a little more of this place?" (edited)

As they walk back, she gives her a fairly wavetop answer she probably already knows. “Well, unfortunately, this is all that’s left after years of unchecked nuclear war and the scream. Not many survived. Even now, only a handful of our children live more than a few years.” She shrugs a bit, almost as if what she’s saying is somehow no big deal. “But I’m sure my husband will be happy to tell you more of the history” (edited)

10:29 AM

And she kind of leaves it at that, turning her attention instead to pointing out the exotic flowers that thrive on the planets unique soil now given the lack of humans to destroy them.

Valentina would listen intently, and ask pertainant questions about the plants, there uses and which are edible or poisonous, and generally continue with smalltalk until they reach the camp. (edited)

She seems surprisingly well versed in botany, even mentioning a few “her people believe” have medicinal properties. Even one which “their superstition” holds helps prevent radiation sickness

They quickly enough reach the village. Scattered ragtag wooden huts seem haphazardly built around the single lighthouse like building. Outside the village are a few meager plots with attempts at agriculture, and maybe a pen or two with some form of strange livestock, but neither are sufficient to support the amount of people present—it’s clear they still mainly subside on hunting/gathering.

10:57 AM

A thin, flimsy wooden fence of wooden spikes forms an outer perimeter of the village. At what appears the entrance, two spikes are unsurprisingly topped with human skulls. Most of the huts seem also decorated with various bones and talisman—some perhaps appearing human, but most clearly animal.

"Well this seems like a well put together settlement, are there many like it on the planet?"

She shrugs a bit. “I’d imagine, but not really sure how many. I knew of at least one other, but they are no more. Others occasionally raid us.”

"And do you raid them in response?"

“The one we knew of, yes.” And just leaves it at that, leading them into the village where the locals that were not part of the warband probably come out to see the arrivals. She moves to a large man that appears to be the chieftain. They share a quick kiss, then she speaks to him in their local tongue..

Valentina stands and watches a while, and listens to the conversation intently, although she doesn't understand the words, she hears the cadence and tone, and wonders if this language uses tone in a similar manner to English.

She motions to Valentina, and Valentina hears her name used. She then moves and takes up a spot standing behind the man to his left, almost submissively. It seems less the position of a wife or equal, and almost that of an inferior or servant.

"Good afternoon, how might I address you,"she says looking to the chief.

(She translates the woman’s questions to the Chief)

“Chief Asol , and who am I addressing, where do you come from?”

(She translate both ways, figures goes without saying.

)

"I am Valentina Spiros, I have come from the Elysium Protectorate, and it is good to meet you Chief Asol."

“The pleasure may be mine. You’ve come as the first outsider in my years. You are not from this world. My wife has told me of your intent and where you come from, but I would hear it for myself if it pleases you”

7:24 PM

The bone necklace on his well built chest rattles as the deeper parts of his speech vibrate it

She watches Valentina closely, awaiting her answer, seeing how she handles herself with the Chief. This woman has already proven her bravery.

"You are quite right in that we are not of this world, we are from the planet Heras. We are here first and foremost to explore this planet, discover who lives here, and assess it's habitability. For anyone who expresses interest, we are also happy to discuss trade, and membership of the Elysium Protectorate, but wether we explore that further is up to you."

She visibly smiles, satisfied hearing that answer as she translates it for the Chief.

"We know little of your Protectorate, or what your world is like, or how you govern your people. We would need answers to these things if we're to make a decision on membership, or entertain diplomacy at all"

She perks up at these questions, herself knowing little of the protectorate and quite curious to hear Val’s description of it

"Well, the first world of the protectorate is Heras, it was originally ruled over as a series of separate city states, each with their own Khan as their ruler. As we have been seeking to unite the planet, we have brought these Khan's together into a council, and as other planets have joined, they have also been offered seats on the council, to send their own leaders to."

"What kinds of troubles have you have in uniting this planet Heras?"

"Generally to bring everyone to the table together, but, once the first few joined, it became easier to convince others that it was a good way to go."

"self interest by the existing rulers then. I know what that's code for" he smiles. "Well, we'd need to see if your deeds match your words. If you'd be amenable to a guest, my wife Shenandoah here would see this protectorate of yours, and make the decision for herself on what is wise"

2:06 PM

(OOC, with this planet being very far away from your territory, direct protectorate membership right now is going to leave them as a virtual island, but thats not to say the people cant be brought back or you guys cant work somrthing out)

"It certainly is self interest, but I believe the benefits of peace that they have seen, far outweigh any challenges brought by diplomacy. I would by all means enjoy entertaining your wife as our guest, as you have entertained us here. I have a few more stops on this expedition, before I return, but I'd be happy to have her come along on those as well." (Yep, to be honest, I wasn't expecting to get much at all in terms of diplomacy, so this is a good step in the right direction)

(Up to Shen at this point, I can probably whip up some adventures here if she doesnt want to come with, or anything really, going with is good too)

(Reading up now)

3:21 PM

She doesn’t do too great a job at hiding the excitement on her face. She turns and speaks to the Chief in their native tongue briefly..

The conversation lasts for a few moments, but its clear even from his offer that he's willing to let you go

She smiles to Valentina and nods “then if you have room, I would be honored to see your protectorate”

"That sounds like a fine idea, we'll have to stock up on supplies and whatnot, as the ship's only designed for six, so it'll be a bit cramped, but we'll make it work."

She smiles and nods “I can help you gather the necessary supplies. And I don’t mind cramped. I’m used to sleeping on the floor. Now, if you’ll excuse me, dinner doesn’t prepare itself.” She motions to where the other women in the camp are preparing the feast, it being pretty clear primitive definitions of gender roles are enforced here. (edited)

"Sounds good, I suspect we will leave shortly after dinner so not to outstay our welcome"

She joins the other women in the makeshift outdoor kitchen. A large goat like creature is being roasted on a spit over a fire. A pot holds some kind of meat-based stew. And there is also an assortment of strange root vegetables. She helps another woman put the main meat on a crudely constructed wooden platter, and they carry it to the table before the Chief and guests. The other women bring the other courses. The women then all return to the kitchen, clearly not eating before the men and guests. Shenandoah retakes her spot standing behind the Chief—likely only welcome here because she’s translating. (edited)

Valentina sits and allows the chief to start eating, as she isn't entirely sure of the etiquette here, but at a moment that seems suitable, she will take a small portion of the food, and try it. "So, have your ancestors been here as long as your history spans back?"

The Chief’s mouth momentarily filled with food, she decides to ask her own questions. “Yes, the tribe all descend from original inhabitants of this world, or so we assume.... so tell me of these worlds you are going to? Will any have new plants or people?” (edited)

"That is interesting, as for the world's we're headed to, first will be Mariam, is an ice world, where I'm only expecting a short refueling stop, and then onto Gudrun, which is the capital of the United Nation of world's, after that we'll see, but most likely back to Heras."

“Ohh, another capital world?! It all sounds so exciting! Well, you better eat up unless you plan to stay the night with us.” Very Subtle head shake ‘no’ almost giving her a look of ‘not a great idea’.

"Yep, we should head off shortly so we can be back at the ship before nightfall." Valentina will eat up and then start to excuse herself. (I think we should wait for Neko before heading off, in case the chief wants to say anything, or anything occurs on the way back)

(Yep, totally fair!)

As the Chief, guests, and the men finish, the table starts to devolve into what sounds like small talk, boasting, and general BS in the local language. She joins the other women in helping clear away the remains from the table. She remains with the other women around the cooking fires, either sitting on the ground or standing. They dine on whatever remaining scraps they’re able to pick off the carcass, or even off leftover plates, but mainly the women just dine on the vegetables which do not seem in short supply. (edited)

6:55 AM

Some of the boasting turns into shoving, and a few of the warriors begin brawling or other competitions of strength.

(nothing in the woods on the way back with all the activity, and the other villagers aren't a threat since you're the chief's guest. ) the chief says little during the night, content to let the celebration play out, and eager to obtain information about what might be out in the wider universe. He sits, thinking, planning, wondering what might become of him and his people

As the festivities wind down and they prepare to depart, she packs her very few possessions into a makeshift leather sack. Mostly just sentimental talismans or pieces of jewelry, etc. She spends a few moments bidding farewell to those members of the tribe she was closest to.

Valentina stands at the exit to camp, allowing Shen to say her goodbyes, before turning to go, using the drones to scan ahead into the looming darkness, just in case.

Follows along in silence, partly in thought, partly her hunter instinct when outside the camp at night. Her bag held tightly in one hand, her spear held almost as a walking stick in the other

The drones report a quiet forest aside from harmless local wildlife, and the ship begins turning on its running lights as you get close , the crew eager to be off the ground and relatively safe up in space

"OK, let's get onboard, we'll get you set up with a bunk once we're in orbit."

She quickly boards the vessel with the group. “So, im not sure if you were looking for anything particular on this planet, or how quick you need to leave, but I, uh, know there was an old crash site about 100km north of here. Don’t know if it would have anything left of value?”

10:20 AM

She sets down her stuff in whatever kind of cargo hatch, leaning he spear against a bulkhead. She actually seems surprisingly at ease on the ship.

"Well, we weren't looking for anything in particular, but if there's a crash site that sounds like something worth a look in, do you know if there are any tribes nearby?"

“There used to be. They were definitely less friendly than mine. But it’s been several years since I’ve been there, they likely moved on? Sorry I can’t be more help.”

"Ok, no reason not to fly off that way and take a scan on the way over, then we know if anyone or anything is down there. Can you mark it out on a map for Isabelle?"

She nods and goes to point it out the map, greeting Isabelle with a polite but uncertain wave and hello. (I assume she’s yer NPC pilot)

10:27 AM

(If she’s a computer, I don’t wave, lol)

(Yep, Isabelle is the pilot, Lucius does Comms, and the rest of the crew are all named, but don't come up anywhere near as often, no AIs or VIs here of yet)

Isabelle hands over a grease pencil, allowing you to draw on the various map screens with something lasting, that can be scraped away later

She marks a little dot on the map, pretty close to 100km north.

"Ok, let's head up there and do a slow pass with the survey scanner first"

She moves to the back of the bridge area to stay out of the way, but still watching with curiosity.

(and another program/int at +2 for the scanners, since the radiation is still fouling things, and we're trying to pick up a probably mostly buried by now wreck)

(Headed back into work. Chat later!)

(13 for Int/Program including bonuses)

There is a metallic ping from under 5m of soil within the designated zone. there is no evidence of the wreck on the surface, or telling what condition it might be below

"Ok, possibly something very old, lets head down onto the surface, and we'll see whether there's any chance of digging an access tunnel to get in and explore it."

The ships sets down a few hundred meters from the suspected crash site, and the ramp lowers. Radiation here is higher, and vac suits are worn by everyone to keep the worst of it out

"Ok everyone, minimal time outside please, let's get scans of the area, work out if we can determine how the ship is laid out, and if there's any access to it" Valentina steps out of the ship, scanning the surrounding area for heat signitures and movement on the surface with Quintus II and scanning the ground for the ship's hull with Quintus IV

She checks out the vacc suit with perhaps a mixture of caution and curiosity, before putting it on with seemingly little trouble. She keeps her spear with her and follows Valentina out, for the first time showing a bit of nervousness. “Did your scans locate any life around?”

The drones map the outline of the wreck as best they can, and aboard the ship, a projected outline begins appearing on the scanner screen

"No life signs so far, but we're starting to get an image of the ship, we'll need a bit more time yet to get a fuller picture of what's going on under there."

She just nods, relaxing her tense grip on the spear after she hears there’s no signs of life here.

After an hour of scanning and flag planting by the drones with their tiny manipulator arms, the outline of the ship is sketched. It is buried, and it does not seem that there is anything happening below.

(Did we get any indication as to the ship's class or where any of the access ports might be?)

(It's a free merchant, but nothing like that, there's 10 feet or more of dirt between here and down there, and the drones cant be that precise)

She points to a few spots on the outlines. “There would be ways in there, and there.. but guess you don’t have any way to get down there anymore?”

3:09 PM

She kicks a rock in mild frustration.

(Ok, cool) "Yes, I think your right, I'd like to come back with some excavation equipment, we can probably pick that sort of stuff up on Gudrun while we're there."

She just nods again, then turns to head back onto the ship with little fanfare

Valentina gives a mental command to the drones to go and collect their little flags, and with that marks the location on her compad as a location for later exploration.

3:27 PM

And with that steps back onto the ship, "Ok everyone, I don't think we'll make much progress on that tonight, so lets get to Gudrun, and we'll see what can be done about this later" (Also Neko, I really enjoy the image of the drones, with almost cupcake sized red flags for marking out!)

4

She steps back into the ship, removing the vacc suit helmet. She moves to a nearby window, and watches as the ship begins to depart in silence.

As the ship enters atmosphere and the planet fades from view, she goes to find Valentina or other members of the crew

Valentina would be on the bridge until they entered spike, as would Isabelle, the rest of the crew would be on breaks once they're out of orbit, and once into spike they will rotate bridge watches

(Yeah, then she’d prolly wait til they enter spike.)

Finds Valentina in the break area, or wherever, once they’re underway. She’s still wearing the vacc suit, sans helmet. “So, umm, thanks for taking me with you. Is there anything I can do on board to help earn my keep? I’m not a bad cook?”

"You're welcome, cooking would certainly be nice, we eat a lot of precooked stuff onboard, and we tend to only eat fresh food on occasions, especially if everyone is on shift sleep patterns, but we have two days in spike, to Mariam, so lets say dinner tomorrow night we'll eat together as much as is possible, if you feel up to making that, we can show you the stores and you can select what you need from there. If you're interested we can start to show you how to monitor spike drills, it'll be a while until you can be left on the bridge alone to monitor the drill, but no harm in starting to learn." (edited)

Nods. “Sure, I’m happy to learn, and ready whenever. Not like I’ve got anything else to do! Though, um, not to impose anymore on your hospitality—but um, do you have any extra clothes I could borrow? The garb I wore seem a bit—underdressed?—now that we’re off that rock”

4:28 PM

She seems to have no real love loss for the planet.

"Sure, we've not got a great deal when it comes to extra clothes, but we should have some stuff to fit until we get to Gudrun, where I'm sure we can get you something more permanent. So, now we've got the time without the clan around, how did you first end up on Thjodhild?"

She almost grins a bit, almost thinking no one would ask. “You noticed?”

"Well, there were a few pointers, the language grasp for one"

She smiles and nods. “Yeah, I did kind of stand out. Well, I was part of a survey crew..” pauses trying to count “6 of their years ago—I have no idea how long it’s been in normal time...”

4:37 PM

“When we first came to the planet, they were not nearly like they are now. They were primitive by our standards—not yet space faring, but close.”

4:40 PM

“We’d been there a few weeks mainly studying the flowers and wildlife—there was a lot more of that then—when.. something? Happened. In their tongue, it was called “the darkness”... so many people died, it was horrible...

4:42 PM

She pauses, visibly distraught, trying to compose herself..

"Sounds like what we have since called the scream, I don't know much about it, but I'm sure the scholars will write of it in due course, we were fortunate, having no psions on the crew, meant that we felt it, but were spared any deaths."

4:44 PM

"What happened to the rest of the crew?"

Nods. “My crew also survived... initially... but, the chaos that came afterwards.. the survivors of the... the scream?... they all blamed eachother, they thought it was some kind of weapon, and they quickly turned on eachother...

4:48 PM

They had these primitive nuclear weapons that had been protected underground, and as a last ditch they fired them at one another—the ones that still worked.”

4:49 PM

Our ship was far enough from any major cities we survived those initial strikes—but afterwards.. nothing was left...

4:50 PM

Dust from the blasts blocked the light—radiation drifted all over the planet—it was horrible. They all killed their own planet, and eachother!

4:50 PM

“

4:53 PM

She pauses again, composing herself and collecting her thought. This is clearly a difficult story for her to recount, and one she likely has not told in years.

4:59 PM

“We survived in our ship as long as we could. It shielded is from the worst of the radiation. But eventually supplies ran low, and we weren’t exactly the greatest hunters given the lack of life near us.. “

5:00 PM

“We eventually had no choice but to leave, try and find a sustainable source of food, water, anything. Maybe find some other survivors..”

5:03 PM

“I don’t remember how long we wandered looking for anything. But all the water was toxic, there was nothing edible..

5:05 PM

“Our suits shielded from some of the radiation—but my crew started succumbing to dehydration and starvation...”

"Well, it sounds like quite the ordeal, does that mean that the buried ship was originally your crew's?

She nods. “Yes”

"Ok, well, I'd like to recover it, because presumably, beyond being buried, it's reasonably undamaged?"

She nods “yes, presumably. Though after the scream we were unable to get the engines started, or we’d have escaped.”

"Ok, well, repairing the spike drive may be possible, we'll have to see, which polity or planet did you and your expedition originally come from?"

“We were from Tenebrian Empire..” (Neko chime in if that’s a bad choice—just picking a pre-scream faction)

5:19 PM

“Is it still around?”

5:21 PM

“How long has passed in normal years.. how long was I down there?”

"Not as far as I'm aware, there are survivors known as the Tenebrian Remnant, but they've become somewhat of a rebel faction, and they were accused of causing some of the unrest on Gudrun, but I don't know much else about it. This is the end of the third year since the scream, so I suspect you've been down there around four years?" Valentina pauses for a second, as she considers something. "I would like to make a suggestion, and you are entirely welcome to decline this, however I would like to put it to you regardless. I intend to recover the ship on Thojhild if at all possible, but that will likely be a reasonably expensive undertaking for the Aphroditan Guild, especially in its infancy, however to gain a second free merchant would be a great boon. As such, were we to recover it, I would like it to become a guild asset, however as it was originally your ship, I would then offer you a position on it's crew, as fit's your skillset, and provide you with a stipend to help pay your way. Of course this is all dependant on being able to recover the vessel, but what do you think?"

She smiles hearing this. “Well, I wasn’t her owner—but I guess that’s sort of irrelevant now. But yes, if you could recover her, I would love to help restore her and pilot her. Since the galaxy otherwise passed me by, not sure I have much else to do?” She grins a bit at her last comment.

5:43 PM

“And I definitely relish getting to explore again, and learn about the sector as it is now... definitely beats living as basically a slave on a world that’s barely surviving.”

"Okay then, we'll get to Gurun, and then see what can be done." (2 days downtime to Mariam?)

“Great! Now, about those clothes?” Grins “And I haven’t had as much as a proper shower in 4 years..”

"I'll show you around and get you settled in, we'll have to hot bunk for a while as there are only 6 bunks, but no harm in that." (Shall we wait here for Neko so that he can catch up, and do any prep that he needs to for Miriam?)

(good place to do so)

“If space is tight, I can just hang a hammock in a cargo hold or something. Hate to take someone’s bunk.” (Sounds good!)

5:57 PM

(We did a reverse lore dump)

(yeah, 2 days of downtime from here to Mariam)

(Great, 44/90 Administer)

?

6:09 PM

Administer?

(When in spike we do downtime activities, so I spent mine on administer)

(Ahh)

(If you look in roll 20, its a handout at the top)

6:11 PM

(It mostly breaks down into learning languages, training skills or adding mods to equipment or building equipment)

(But it says skills can only be trained to 0?)

(correct, anything at -1 can be trained to 0

(So can’t like, spend days reading and increase one you already have?)

6:13 PM

(Like know, etc?)

(no, since anything past the basic competency you get at 0 requires specialized training that youre not likely to be able to undergo while also traveling, so you have to spend skill points as normal beyond 0)

(Makes sense. Just not sure what she can do in downtime, lol)

6:19 PM

(Heal?)

6:20 PM

(Actually, just do punch. She’ll punch a punching bag and stuff, lol. I’ll prolly skill point raise heal at 2nd lvl)

(anything that you could come up with a plausible justification for. Like sitting with the pilot for training or sparring in the cargo hold for punch)

(Hmm, Final answer, pilot) (edited)

There is a large fleet leaving the Mariam system as you enter it, their ship transponders marking them out as The Exalted Path. Their run to the system edge has them making a path galactic southeast, to the frontiers. Visual readouts from your scanners show the most outstanding of them is a massive blade of a mothership that appears to be a carrier vessel for over a dozen frigate-class ships. A last flock of cargo lighters are making dock even as the fleet is moving away from the planet. There is no evidence of battle here.

8:08 PM

As the ship drops out of spike, she wanders to the bridge to get her first look at a new planet. Sees that fleet and all the ships and just stares in speechless amazement.

"Hmm, the Exalted Path, there was a sector wide transmission bearing that name a while ago, although from memory the rest was some quote or other from an ancient religious text. Well, regardless, let's get fueled up, and see what the news is here." (Is there a station to refuel at, or do you have to go to the surface for that?)

“So you’ve never seen them before?” She asks, then Grins a bit. “Glad I’m not the only one. They certainly look impressive.”

"Nope, first time I've heard of them within the borders of one of the major polities, and yes, they certainly do look impressive, I wouldn't like to be on the wrong end of that fleet for sure."

“Hopefully we’re not on the wrong side. Take it you can’t make it to another system for supplies?”

"We could, we've got the fuel for it, but I generally prefer to run with a full tank if possible"

“Well, I guess they’re not shooting us... yet”

"Nope, they appear to be translating out of system, so I suspect they won't give us any trouble"

She just nods. Seems she’s got a lot to learn about travelling out here.

(There’s a space station and a surface station. Depends where you want to go)

(OK, lets head onto the surface station as I'm not anticipating being here too long) "Isabelle, can you bring us onto station please, we need to refuel, and I'd like to find out what the situation with that fleet is"

“We’re going down there?!” Between the giant alien fleet, and what she sees as just a giant ball of ice, she’s not entirely sure she’s ready for either.

"Not down there, not yet anyway, we'll head to the space station first, as they'll be able to refuel us, and probably tell us what's going on"

(Oh, ok. Thought you meant surface station like, on surface)

(There's also a surface station, but unless anyone onboard has objections, I'd rather stay in space for now, Valentina tends to be more comfortable in space, even with the potential for instantaneous death and similar)

(None here)

The ship is welcomed to the space platform and a fuel umbilical extends, along with a boarding tube to allow you access to the interior of the station. Gravity is closer to earth like as you begin using station power rather than the ship's onboard.

7:25 AM

outside, the strange fleet keeps moving out system, to the edge of the gravity well

Eager to see the inside of a station after years, she doesn’t rush and instead follows Val’s lead.

"Ok, let's head onto station, we'll be leaving in on hour or so, if you have any interest in exploring the station yourself? Otherwise I'll be going to talk to the station master first, and then I'll go from there. Here's a commpad in case you need to contact us by the way, you probably should have one, and there's a credstick with 500 credits, in case you want to buy anything" (edited)

“Sure, I can explore. I don’t know that I can offer much with the station master anyhow.” She graciously takes the compad and cress and heads in. She’s presumably wearing whatever basic jumpsuit she could find, as to not stick out to much in a loin cloth. She goes exploring for shops and such.

(there is a locker on the ship with ship suits in it. I'd imagine during space flight everyones wearing one, just in case)

(Sounds good.)

(Yep, I'd guess so)

1:38 PM

Valentina heads off to find the station master, in order to ensure the bills will be paid, and find out any news of late

(not sure how much we wanted to do but Catherine has a channel under unaligned now since Val is off on her own business for a bit)

2:30 PM

The station master is on the bridge rather than in his office and you're directed there after a few extra minutes of navigating the station's interior corridors. He is looking like a man who has not had the chance to breathe out in some time, but is starting to as the last of the Imago Dei ships exit the system.

(Yay! I’m somebody now!)

(Ok, that sounds like a plan for the next little bit) "Good afternoon Master, have you got some time, or shall I leave you to catch your breath, I understand you've had a bit of an ordeal lately?"

"We thought it might become one, but it did not. Cooler heads prevailed. You're in from Protectorate Space, I'll record your ship as being here. In for fuel? Or is there some other errand"

"I'm glad to hear it, just refuelling here, and then onto Gudrun, if there security is heightened because of the fleet, you might give them the courtesy of telling them to expect us. The only other thought here was one of any local news, we like to keep an ear on what's going on in the sector, and the station's master tends to see a lot, so thought you might be a good one to ask!"

“Aside from what you’ve seen not much to say. I can’t really comment on UNW internal business like that. Just glad we didn’t have violence here today, and that none of my sailors are heading home in pine boxes

"Of course, very understandable, and for what it's worth, I'm very glad as well, unnecessary loss of life is always regrettable"

"Everyones jumpy, that fleet is good to have chosen a path to the frontier rather than further coreward to Gudrun. We might have had to open fire at that point"

Gathered a few basic supplies to tide her the rest of the way, she returns to the ship awaiting Valentina to finish her business with the station master.

"Lets hope it doesn't come to that, well, thank you for your help, I'll leave you be"

8:14 AM

Valentina steps onto the ship once again, and starts plotting the trip out to Gudrun, meanwhile she will send messages to the rest of the crew, who may have not yet returned.

(and its 3 days from here to Gudrun)

(So 5/90 pilot? Woot! Lol)

(47/90 Administer just passing the halfway mark!)

(Lol—90 days, soooo long for a 0 skill, lol)

(Yep, but it's a free skill point, so it makes sense that it would take a while)

(I know. Not saying unfair/imbalanced. Just long, lol)

8:31 AM

“So.. on to Gudrun. Anything I need to watch out for there, like cannibals?” Grins a bit at her half attempt at a cheesey joke “or don’t eat with your left hand type stuff?” (edited)

Valentina smiles a little, and then turns to say, "It's been a while since I visited, so to be honest I'm a little in the dark, the major thing will often be politeness, there customs are usually not too strange, but allow them to lead, they will often dictate how things are to play out"

Smiles with a nod “yes, ma’am!”

Trivedi Cloud, the Arx class station over Gudrun queries the ship, as it is flying Protectorate colors, as it enters local space. The typical questions of name, destination, and intent in UNW space are broadcast, and a few of the turrets on its facing begin to toggle over to track you, though the weapons lock alarm has not come on

"Trivedi Cloud, I'm Valentina Spiros, Captain of the Voice of Hermes, Our destination is the UNW Council, in particular any trade department you happen to have, I hope the Master of the Station on Mariam had chance to forewarn you of our arrival?"

(If you're making a trade agreement, we can post it in the Unity council meeting thread, since they're going to need to vote on whatever it is you're proposing. I shouldnt have NPC's making player decisions )

10:54 AM

(I don't want to contaminate game events with my own input)

(Yep, sounds good, I'll write something up and post it over there)

She just watches the going ones nervously from the back of the bridge. Still not quite sure what passes for “normal”, but not thrilled seeing space station turrets pivoting. Eagerly awaits touching back down and spending a few days in real gravity.

"Proceed to the platform for inspection and customs screening, further transfer to the surface will be permitted after that time" Lights alongside one of the docking umbilical's begin flashing, set aside for your use

"Thanks, we'll see you in a few minutes" "Ok, that's our dock, lets get in and get down to the surface"

“Great. I never thought I’d say I miss dirt underfoot.”

"It's an odd thing really, I've spent so much time out in the black, that I miss it less than most I think. The lightened artificial gravity of a ship is quite comforting in itself I think, but yes, it is nice to be on the ground occasionally"

She just nods as she tries to hide her nervousness at another docking and so forth.

(So i guess from here it kind of depends what you want to do on the surface. Travel is a bit more restricted to the west, since the Bladonna Rebellion is still going on, but otherwise, you're home free to go wherever)

(I'm currently writing the post for the Unity Council, so wherever the meeting hall for that is, would be my first port of call)

(Central)

(Cool, I'll finish drafting that post and then move on from there!)

(How long you planning to be on planet, Val?)

1:38 PM

(I’ll hop by over to my channel—just trying to scope how much exploring to do)

(Not sure to be honest, go explore as far as you want, and we'll see!)

Valentina await with her compad once the offer is made, and it seems like there is some background chatter in both her own polity, and in the UNW that needs to be done before she can get a formal answer. It is a beautiful day in Central, and the newscasts mostly focus on the war to the west, and how mired down the front through a heavily forested region has become

Valentina starts enquiring on her compad as to the local laws on buying vehicles to ship offworld (Essentially, I want to pick up the following vehicle, at some point, and wondered if I can get it here, or whether the customs laws prohibit that sort of thing?)

2:40 PM

2:43 PM

(The other question, when I contacted the Psychic academy about the pyramid, did they come and collect it, or have I been carrying it around on the ship all this time?)

(they have it on Heras)

(Ah, ok, no matter then, and the Grav Explorer?)

The explorer cannot be purchased here, as you are not a citizen and the UNW does not even allow its own citizens to obtain military grade vehicles or weapons without the requisite permits. A change in momentum favoring the UNW in the Taros war to the west could make an administrative decision on this more favorable for yourself

(OK, no problem, I'll grab the Grav explorer later. Is the Taros War, the same civil war that was mentioned earlier?)

(yes, Bladonna declared war on the UNW and tried to kill several intelligence operatives)

2:49 PM

(they never really wanted the unification deal to begin with, but declared independence when it became clear they were financing the Taros First League)

(Is it massively frowned upon if a visitor wandered into a civil war zone?)

(I'd say if you're trying to make a mission out of getting out there/helping, we can set that up and i can smooth out some of the background stuff, I just need to know what you're intending)

(Yep, while we're here, lets make ourselves useful!)

The UNW offensive in a heavily wooded zone has ground to a halt as hundreds of individual skirmishes between UNW and Bladonnan patrols break out, fade and start again. There is debate about how to get enough Bladonnan forces together within this zone to force a decisive battle, as right now, both sides are trickling more and more forces into the area, though cannot marshal their strength in any one area

As Valentina looks into the maps of the area, and tries to assess the strengths and weaknesses of each side, as well as the strategic positioning and she also tries to find the command structure of each side, and who she might talk to.

(So UNW and bladonnans?)

(Yep, the other point that I'm now considering, is that depending on the situation, Valentina may have some sympathy with the Bladonnans, which the UNW definitely won't be fond of)

(That would be an accurate reading fo the situation. If you narrow down what you’d like to approach first I’ll continue as you and Catherine set out to do it)

She returns to the ship in her new duds. She’s perhaps slightly overdressed for normal adventuring standards (blue dress, puffy sleeves, etc), and no visible armor. She’s got her new rapier at her side, a stark contrast to her former spear, but no other weapons or noticeable equipment. She tosses the backpack with her other clothes by her hammock in the cargo hold of the ship. (edited)

(If the UNW don't jump down my throat at the idea, I'd like to approach the Bladonnans to get their side of the story)

She then repacks the backpack with her hammock, and knives, not sure (or having) much else to bring.

(I don’t think they’d know right away I can’t promise immunity though)

(Would there be space to sit down with both sides as an external party, to try and get peace talks going, or has that been tried and its all gone too far for another attempt?)

(They have been funding terrorist attacks against the UNW and when the information was exposed to the public the Bladonnans then tried to murder the agent responsible for uncovering it)

3:43 PM

(The UNW is not interested in anything less than the removal of the current Bladonna government and their unconditional surrender

(Yep, I have a nasty feeling that if I get involved, I'm going to agree with the "Wrong" side, and cause a pan-sector diplomatic incident, and I just don't think that's what Valentina would do)

3:47 PM

"Hello again Cat, apologies, but I thought we had a potential mission out near the civil war, but I think for us as outsiders, it's just a little too politically hot, I think starting back would be better done sooner than later"

(Theta’s thread ans zlatomir’s thread would have the info I’m talking about if you want to read it for yourself )

(Yep, I gave Zlat's a quick read as you mentioned it earlier, I think as fun as it would be, it isn't in character, and would probably get her killed, she has the potential to be a bit radicle, but she hasn't got a deathwish)

“Leaving so soon, we just got here?” Frowns a bit.

(Yeah and in theta’s they tried shooting down his rescue bird after he exposed some info)

3:50 PM

(Along with murdering all his partisan friends)

“Didn’t you need to haggle some trade deal or something?” Really just trying to stall returning to space quite so soon.

(Yep, I think this may just be one of those sad times to walk away) "Yep, we've set discussions in motion, the rest can be done over the video communicator, once both polities have come to their respective conclusions"

“Oh... ok.” Doesn’t do well at hiding her disappointment.

3:56 PM

“Ohh, well, while we’re here.. you have contacts with the leaders here maybe I could meet? Just see if maybe they’d be interested in helping my—helping the people on Thjodhild? Seems only prudent I should explore all options incase your protectorate decides it’s not worth the trouble?” (edited)

"Yes, we certainly can explore that option, from the sounds of it, things are not going perfectly back on Heras, so it may bring help to your people more quickly"

(UWN leaders are NPC, right?)

2

1

2

"Certainly with regard to aid being sent that way"

“Well, I’d just like to provide the chief with all the options.”

"By all means, here are comm codes for the relevant people, feel free to ask as you see fit, and if you need my help with any of that, by all means let me know"

“Thanks! I guess give me a few hours to see what I can setup, don’t leave without me?”

"I won't, I've got some stuff to iron out first anyway" (edited)

“Sounds good!” And she grabs her bag and heads out again, calling the first UNW number as she goes.

Val, Thank you for everything.  UWN is loaning me a free merchant with humanitarian supplies for Thjodhild.  I’m not sure how long it’ll take, but I still am very interested in going to Hestra, learning about your protectorate and your explorers guild.  I’ll be in touch!

(edited)

Ok, I wish you well on your journey, and hope we meet again

(I’m caught up. What’s our port of call)

(Ok, I think the plan I've eventually cobbled together, is to go and pick up 30 Tonnes of food, and 30 Tonnes of Postech Building Materials, deliver the building material to Astyoche, and the Food to Heras, then, depending on when the next Town Hall meeting is, either straight to that, or if there is a gap between, then go any play diplomat to one of the cities yet to be brought into EP)

12:07 PM

(So, 13 downtime days back to Astyoche, to deliver the building materials first)?

(sure! we can do that!)

(For picking up the goods, should I be doing it for trades style?)

(Technically yes, but in such small amounts we can hand wave it this one time, and just call it book price)

(Ok, sounds good, I'll cost it up)

(30 Tonnes Colonial Supplies = 30k 30 Tonnes Metawheat = 15k So 45k Total)

(perfect, and then yes, the route I've got is 13 days as well)

"Very well everyone, I hope you've all had a good period of shore leave, it's going to be the last for around two weeks, we're not stopping until we reach Astyoche." (13 Days spike, 60/90 Administer) "Ok, let's set down a little way from the village, we can move in closer to drop stuff off when we have met with them, and got their permission to deliver the goods"

(Which one were you stopping at, western?)

(I believe that's where we landed last time? So, yes) (edited)

(yeah that was)

7:25 AM

The villagers have rebuilt in some small ways, a handful of large buildings have been set up, made of large logs though there is still very little vegetation around. There is a great amount of apprehension, as the ship is recognized, and the villagers assemble at the edge of their new series of dwellings, many carrying weapons

Valentina steps down from the ship, with sorrow on her face at the situation, "I know that we parted on bad terms last time, so if you'll accept, I've brought a small gift to help settle things with your people," Valentina gestures to the first of the crates at the entrance to the ship's hold.

the group keeps their weapons lowered, and begins trying to see what you might have brought with you

10:49 PM

Their chief steps forward and addresses the crowd "I am placing this visitor into my care as a guest. Per custom, she is not to be harmed unless she harms one of you first. On my honor, and the honor of my family, if she keeps her own clean- she will leave this place unharmed"

"Thank you for your hospitality, if you would like to, we can unload the goods and put them where they can best be put to use?"

(This coincides nice with EP making colony housing here this turn)

7:21 AM

The elder looks at the hold, and some of the old ways begin coming back to him. "These will work. We need a new marketplace, and some of the homes were unable to be finished with just the wood supplies that were made for us. "

"I'm glad to hear it, I hope that it goes some way to mending the relationship between us."

7:27 AM

(If the elder has nothing particular to say, Valentina will head to Heras and the all meeting)

(I think the idea of rebuilding their city is probably occupying most of his attentions, so if we're just dumping the cargo here then yeah, we can return)

8:12 AM

(3xp, 5000 credits)

(That's great, thanks)

11:48 AM

Upon landing on Heras, Valentina gives swift instructions for goods to be unloaded, and rushes to the town hall

The meeting having concluded, Valentina steps out heads back to the Voice of Hermes for the last time, she walks up to the bridge, and runs her fingers along the consoles, feeling the gentle thrum of the barely active engines. She collects her things up into a bag, and setting them down by the door, heads to the mess to see her ever faithful crew. "Each of you has been a pleasure these past years, and despite my leaving the Voice of Hermes, I have an offer for you all. I would like you to become my crew aboard the Phobos, many things would likely be the same, but others I suspect would change, we are still members of the Protectorate, and as such, should the Protectorate Navy call for our aid, we would come, and do so gladly. However, there would also be times where we are not needed here, and I'd like to spend that time furthering the interests of the guild, and in that regard, there is much to do. The choice to join the Guild, or stay on with the Protectorate Navy is entirely yours, and I won't begrudge any of you for your decision. However, before that takes place, we have a mission to Stygia, to the South West of here, to inform them of the Protectorate's existence and purpose, and extend them an invitation to join us." (edited)

6:15 PM

Valentina carries her bag across to the Phobos, unpacks into the fractionally more spacious quarters, and collects together her gear, before heading out to the trucks. (edited)

(THey'd all join you on the Phobos, I think from what im reading in the message you're traveling with Kay? Or you're going to a different city)

(I'm going to Stygia, but I'll travel with Kay's party to their city as it's on route) (edited)

(sounds good! we can do that part of the journey in his, and then swing back when you break back off)

(Ok, sounds good)

(When you've got a moment, I've added a few more goals)

(A lot of these are things that are just simply spending faction turns, so I can't award Xp for the ones that are zero, as there is no risk to you or chance for failure)

(OK, do the ones about exploration work for you?)

(yeah those are good!)

Dear Valentina,

It is great to hear from you again, and with such good news!  Later this month is fine—after 4years, what is a few more weeks?  The shipment from UNW has more than enough to tide us over until then.

I am not sure how the people will react to this news, or honestly, if they will even understand what this means—it will likely be transparent to them, other than the support you bring?  However, I have made a little headway with one tribe.  Their chieftain is old, but his son seems wise and eager to unite the tribes—though for them, that may be less than peaceably.  They are not yet the most welcoming of outsiders, but they are at least willing to accept the support.  Hopefully that’s enough of a foot in to build rapport.  He did express a desire to be on equal footing, then he might view off worlders differently.  I will leave the diplomatizing to you.  If you wish to communicate with them before you arrive, I can facilitate that.

As for when you do come, while food is always welcome, they are generally self-sufficient for their small size for now.  What would help and make the biggest impact is stuff to begin restoring them technologically and aiding their quality of life—more materials to start constructing modern buildings, better weapons for hunting, and training so they know how to do this stuff on their own.  I have located a supply of iron nearby which should be of help. 

Look forward to seeing you again,
Catherine

P.S. They have mammoths!

(edited)

Dear Catherine,
I'm glad to hear that you're making progress, one tribe is a start even if that still gives us a long way to go. I think best to leave any diplomacy until we are more stable  within the Protectorate, and have some supply routes in place. Finding natural resources on Thjodhild is definitely a boon and iron can always be refined as long as we can bring out some suitable equipment to facilitate it. The mammoths are definitely an interesting discovery, although I hope they can be relied upon to stay away from larger settlements.

Look forward to seeing you as well,
Sincerely,
Valentina

### INCOMING SECURE MESSAGE ###

To: Herald of the Protectorate
CC: Valentina Spiros
From: Catherine Fraiser

Greetings,

Your first shipment of supplies arrived today, it was a nice surprise.  Thank you!

Be advised, a UNW agent engaged me on Thjodhild a few days ago.  They are quite interested in your motives for this planet.  I do not have much say in this fight, my concern is merely for the locals of Thjodhild.  But I do not wish to see this planet suffer in some border war—they cannot take much more.  I trust you and UNW can come to some amicable solution.

Sincerely,
Catherine Fraiser

To: Captain Valentina Spiros
From: Daitrij

Hey Val,

You got the same message as I did. Should you want to set sail towards Thjordhild prior to the next Town Hall Meeting, please initiate one. I dislike the fact that the UNW sent whatever agents out to find Catherine. Interestingly, they are sniffing out her instead of making an official statement. Or sending a diplomat of some sort. Anyway, let's have an assessment and discussion before you leave. 

Stay safe you two, and good luck in Stygia.

May the flame in your heart guide you on your ways. 
Daitrij

(Level up incoming, and goals updated for perusal at you next convenience)

(Level 6 -> 7 Foci: Tinker 1 -> 2 HP: 35 -> 49 Banking 4SP)

5:44 PM

(Would it be possible for Valentina to adjust the plans for the ATLAS, so that it uses her new Tinker 2 and as such doesn't cost a pretech part?)

(With how we have ruled reclaiming pretech, since ships are essentially built around the mods, the ship would be destroyed to recover the component)

(Ah, ok, we'll leave it then, it was just with it being the ATV that was being built while we were away on this mission, I thought it may still be possible to alter the plans, but no worries. Onto Stygia then?) (edited)

(Got it. Yeah can’t do it sadly. And sure. We would have two days of relatively untroubled downtime

(Perfect, Administer 62/90)

Valentina continues to draw out her map as they head on towards Stygia, hoping that it might be of use to other explorers heading this way in years to come.

Stygia is a city of crossroads where both the rivers and the main roads in this regional come together. Dozens of barges, carts and vehicles move in and out of the city of 1000 paths. Most of the transit is done on river boats or flat bottomed barges going into and out of the city flood gates

(Is the ground blackened as it is on the map) As the group approach the city, Valentina keeps an eye out for any guards, or any locals who may be able to direct them to this cities leader.

(It’s very dry Ashland soil)

(Ok) Noting the change in soil, Valentina will also take soil samples to later give to the lab

Several guards and bored looking ferrymen stand near a river crossing. The barge they use is moored to the sandy creek bed and the oars have been locked onto their racks aboard the ship.

7:04 AM

They’re heavily invested in some kind of dice game being played

As the vehicle approaches the crossing, Valentina steps out onto the ashen ground, and takes a few steps towards the guards. "Good afternoon, my name is Valentina Spiros, and I am from the Elysium Protectorate, would you permit me passage into your city?"

"What does the protectorate want from Stygia? " the crossing sergeant asks "We might have to send this up the chain"

"Well, first and foremost would like to invite you to join the protectorate, and in doing so we would invite you to send representatives forward, to allow greater ongoing cooperation on Heras, and further afield." (edited)

12:41 PM

"I would be quite happy to go and speak to whichever ruling body exists here, should that be a good way to pass it up the chain."

There is some commotion around the crossing as the barge is made ready for your group to cross. It is wide, on two large pontoons with a small motor and oars on each side, to allow it to cross no matter what way it is facing. Half the group is able to cross at once, and there is some debate over who to send

Valentina steps onto the pontoon first, delegating a small group to stay with the vehicles, and then gestures for the barge to depart.

The group boards, half of you able to fit on board the barge without risking capsizing it. The oars churn the thick water, and you approach the city where it merges with many other canals, with other boats and barges doing the exact thing you are.

7:34 AM

"You picked a good time to come" the bargeman says, as he idly paddles the boat. "River pirates are quiet this time of year"

"River pirates? What times of year do they appear, and do you know where they come from?"

"Usually in the spring, raiding to keep themselves sustained for the rest of the year. We've never been able to find their base of operation"

"Hmm, fair enough, well, hopefully that's something the protectorate could assist with come the spring!"

"If we could find them over the winter we could essentially guarantee sinking all their riverboats at once, and rounding them up. It's a lot harder to do when the weather warms up and they scatter, but who's got the manpower for that"

"Well, at some point we may be able to lend some assistance, but first I must speak with the Khan."

The river is rough near the middle, the barge rocks twenty degrees or more at its apex, though the crew are professionals and manage to keep it right side up. There is a bump as it beaches itself on the opposite shore, a large city block with winding streets, clearly leading to some sort of administrative complex behind. The buildings there are the tallest, most ornate, and most heavily decorated with gargoyles, statues, and other art

Valentina steps off the barge, "Thank you, where would I be best heading from here?" She also looks inquisitively at the buildings in front of her, and tries to spot if there is any technology on the buildings, CCTV and whatnot

There are a handful of rusting street cameras. One of them has been tagged with vandal's graffiti. "Head north along the Tile street here, that brings you to the gates of the Court. You'll see the guards and they can direct you within"

"Thank you, we will hopefully meet again." Valentina sets off down the street as directed, looking out for the guards she was directed to.

There are several guards standing outside the administration complex. wearing woven armor and carrying combat shotguns instead of rifles. Some of them are wearing metal half visors that cover the nose, mouth , chin, and cheeks, but not the eyes.

2:23 PM

They do not lower weapons, but pay rapt attention as you approach

"Good afternoon, I am from the Elysium Protectorate and have been directed here so that I might have an audience with your Khan, would that be permitted?"

"Khan is inside, preparing for you. Please enter and wait" The guard raps his shotgun haft on the gate behind him, and it rises slowly, on protesting metal gears

7:23 PM

The most impressive building here is the tallest, with the sigil of the city on it, showing something resembling a terrain relief map, the rivers formed into the grasping arms of a Kraken

"Huh, very impressive," Valentina steps forward through the gate, and onward waiting in what seems like a sensible place in the room.

1

11:30 AM

A man in ornamental armor, carrying a trident and bedecked in other symbols of rivers and oceans enters the room, flanked by four more guards, in similar patterns of armor. These men carry shotguns as well. "I am Khan of this city, and I understand you were here to speak with me. The gate guards had said you were here, coming in off the barge"

"Thank you for granting me this audience, I did come in on the barge, and your guards were kind enough to directly, I am Valentina, and I'm from the Elysium Protectorate, and I am here to invite you to join the Protectorate, to benefit from the prosperity of the other cities, as well as access to wider markets and pastures new."

"Can you tell me about these markets you're opening up? What is typically sold or what benefits would joining bring to us aside from some trade partners?"

"Certainly, there tend to be a wide range of goods, food, fuel and such are common, but the most profitable and mutually beneficial goods tend to be technologically advanced goods, materials for starships, energy generation, and medical supplies and devices. There are also a wide variety of commodities available, some of the finer things in life produced around the sector. What sort of thing is Stygia in need of? Another benefit worthy of mention, is as a member of the Protectorate, we will form a customs union, and as such be able to lower barriers to internal trade that may have existed before, between cities. We will also have a defensive pact, so that were an attack to come from space, the Protectorate Navy would be there to repel it, and we would encourage you to send a representative to the council, so you can help shape the direction of the Protectorate."

"We might consider joining but we have a problem that needs to be settled. If soldiers might be called away fro the expeditionary force or for this protectorate army, I think we need them here, first. My city has many many rivers and roads leading to it, and banditry is becoming a problem on these roadways and waterways. Heras has vast tracts of country that are not patrolled. If the Protectorate agrees to establish patrols, watchtowers, build better roads , and eliminates lawlessness in the countrysides, we can agree to join. Until then, my political will and my soldiers are needed here, trying to keep the city together"

"Very well, give me a few hours to go over maps of the area, and establish what we might need to protect the waterways and area around the city, then I can come back to you with a proposal."

After a short while on the comm with the town hall, Valentina steps back into the room, and addresses the Khan once more. "We can agree to these terms, and in order to get a head start on these bandits we would like to conduct a raid to try and eliminate as many of them, as soon as possible. To this end, one of my colleagues, Kayden, will be heading over here shortly, I hope that this is acceptable?"

“This is fine. I will assemble our officers to meet with him and with yourself if you also plan to be involved”

"If time permits then I certainly will be, I have some business to attend to offworld in the next few days, but hope to see you again soon." Valentina excuses herself, and starts heading back towards Mytikas.

(with the airspace safe, we can use a cargo lighter to get us back now, saving you a couple days of overland travel if you like)

9:26 AM

(3xp, 5000 credits)

(Superb, and yes, heading back by cargo lighter would make a lot of sense)

4:17 AM

(Then three days out to Erdoza?)

(Yes)

(Ok, Administer: 65/90) As the Low Tech is about to leave Spike, Valentina sets the ship to low emmisions mode and enables the emmisions dampers, to prepare them to evade the sensors of the orbital defences.

(program/int)

9:42 AM

(there are a couple bonuses as well, but get m e a base value

9:43 AM

(you add a +3 for being small sized, plus any fittings that give you a bonus)

9:44 AM

(Erdoza system defense got a 11)

(We get +4 from fittings, so 16 total!)

Erdoza system defense does not detect you, though there are thousands of TL3 defense satellites and closer in modern breaker guns, and anti ship emplacements on the planet itself. None of them are able to notice the stealth ship intruding through their security grid, though it is tense flying for all involved

"Ok, we don't know how long we'll remain undetected, so let's get in contact with the resistance, and see if we can get these heavy weapons down to them." Valentina writes an encoded message and sends it to the resistance using the same frequencies Jake has been using to contact us.

To Whom it May Concern,
We are ready to deliver the goods, but we need a location, can you send coordinates?

The resistance encampment on the western side of the planet flashes a navigation beacon twice, not willing to risk longer exposure with Government forces still holding air superiority, and communications superiority.

"Ok, that looks like our mark, let's get into position above, and then we can teleport the goods in," as the ship moves across the planet into position, she briefly heads into the hold area, to check the cargo is secured, and ready for transport, then she moves back to the pilots seat, ready to start the teleport. (edited)

(there wouldnt be any reason it would fail, but how many tons did you bring?)

10:28 AM

(its 1200 KG of cargo every 5 minutes, so the longer you're just holding station above the encampment the longer people have to notice)

(I feel like even 1.2 Tonne of heavy weapons is quite a lot of heavy weapons? So unless they asked for a specific amount, probably just 1.2 tonnes, then if they need more, we can drop another resupply later?)

(You can always come back. I wasn’t sure how much you brought. I’m asking for that clarification)

(Yep, 1.2 tonnes sounds reasonable then)

(But if we never specified a small amount like that is fine)

With the goods unloaded, Valentina plots a route out of the system and back to Heras.

(and another program/int with the same mods on the way out, as you'll be passing through the detection envelope again)

(18 on the way out)

1

(14, my thought was if they see you leaving, they could probably triangulate where you left from, but in this case we don't need to worry about it)

(Yep, that makes sense, glad we passed, giving away the rebel base would be upsetting!)

The ship passes back into space, far out of detection range before the crew finally is able to breathe out. The weapons have been delivered, and now, it is up to Jake and the rest of the rebels

7:43 PM

(3xp, 5000 credits)

(Great, so three days back, 68/90 Administer. Then I would like to purchase some more drones, as they keep getting blown up, and I've designed some new ones since the first Quintus, so I'll post the plans and prices when I'm at my laptop later! Then I think I should fulfill my promise to go and find Catherine again, as I was supposed to do that at the end of last month, but time got away from us! So pick up and stock the Phobos, and also now loading the Atlas?) (edited)

8:13 AM

8:14 AM

8:19 AM

(So 2x Occultus, 4x Quintus MK2, 4x Medicus, 4x Scorpio, 2x Balistae, 4x Pomegranate, 4x Demo Charge, for a total cost of 256,000, let's hope this stock up lasts for a bit longer than the previous set!)

(did you have pre-tech for the ultra light components?)

(Aside from that, ultralight components arent a valid drone fitting)

8:35 AM

(as they're not vehicles)

(The ultralight components are the mod we home-brewed, as there isn't a mod that exists for it, if you'd rather I give it a different name to avoid confusion, then I can?)

(I remember the digging mod for that one vehicle, I dont remember anything for the drones)

https://discord.com/channels/@me/593513813047902228/723960372016578672

(okay so it uses a pretech, we do need a different name for it)

8:39 AM

(Question about do you have the pretech component stands)

(I don't, but I do have Tinker 2, to reduce the pretech cost of mods by one, in this case to zero, and I can maintain 24 mods, of which this will be 12)

(kk)

1

(There's some stuff that's going to be happening on Thojhild, that I need to resolve before I can let you know what's there when you get there, I didn't forget about the thread but it might be a bit before I can bring us all together)

(Ok, shall I grab something else to do for a bit, then we can see what the situation looks like after?)

(I think thats probably best)

(Ok, how would heading back to Actaia suit you, I'd like to scout out the other planet, and work out which would be the best for a base, whether there are any natural resources, and that sort of thing? As well as investigating the potential of life on Actaia 2, as mentioned in the scouting report?)

(we can head in that direction sure)

After a few days rest and recuperation in port, Valentina plots a route out to Actaia to survey more of the area, and look to establishing a base out there. With the drones and Atlas now safely aboard, the Phobos is ready to depart onto it's first mission into the blackness of space. (4 days in spike?)

(yeah 1 down to Radji, and then out there) Actala is an entirely different world on your return trip. Both planets are under heavy construction, and there is evidence of massive defensive works, factories, habitations, farms, and life seeding occurring on both worlds. The entire solar system seems to hum with subtle background power, and the communications terminal does not light up, though you're hearing a voice in your mind. This system is property of SCAF, and of myself, Lord Mazzio, though you are a friend. I still owe you a drink

(Sweet, 72/90 Administer) Ah, Lord Mazzio, a drink sounds fine, where might I meet you? (edited)

Come to Actala 1, you;ll see where the heaviest construction is, I am there

Sounds superb "Ok, just had a quick conversation with Mazzio, and apparently he's on Actala 1, Isabelle, if you can bring us in, and I'll try and get a spot on where the densest construction is, apparently he'll be there."

On the planet below, the world seems to be being printed layer by layer, and Silvano has made his lair in an old slyth facility that is largely unchanged at the heart of the construction. You can see vast networks of defenses are planned, though there are no people here right now. The bridge extends across the chasm separating the landing area from the facility itself, and the large doors open

"That's really quite something, regardless, I'll head down for a chat, I'd like you all to stay aboard for now." Valentina steps off the ship and heads down into Silvano's lair.

4:37 PM

"Good evening Lord Mazzio, how are you finding this rather beautiful little system?"

Mazzio sits on something resembling a throne, wearing a black crown, with the eyes covered. The metal is crystalline and black, shard like in appearance, and some of the points near the top float near the device rather than are bound to it. He has not used his actual mouth to speak with you, and rather effortlessly is able to speak within your mind

5:06 PM

I suppose getting up to take that drink is...out of the question

I suppose it is, what happened to you?

(Also, not to break the flow of conversation, but how about Optimised Thrust for the mod name?)

(That’s fine )

6:03 PM

(I added it to the rule book as well)

(Wonderful, thanks!)

This is voluntary. One of my exploration teams found this Slyth relic here, called The Black Masque. I won't bore you with how it works, but my control of psionics is effortless now, and far greater than it was. It is invigoration like I have never felt before

That seems incredibly potent, but now you can't move at all?

I can move if I need to. I am free to leave this place anytime, but without a psychic mind guiding it , the machine stops

Ah, I see. Well, I had come back to this system to set up a small base here, I presume you already know, but there's a wrecked carrier in one of the valleys, which I'd intended to move back to space piece by piece, and then reassemble and repair it. What would you think of me doing that alongside your projects here?

I am sorry to report that the carrier and its pieces were incorporated into some of the anti-starship defenses here. I did not realize there was a claim, or that anyone had even been here before my explorers

Ah, yes, I'd been down as far as Balquis a short time ago. Hmm, would it be possible to extract it again, or even just produce something with a similar function?

Not soon, and not inexpensively. It would be little different than building something new conventionally

Ah, well, that is disappointing, I was looking forward to that little project. Just so you know, we'd appreciate you not expanding further north, the situation on Tecmessa is precarious to say the least, given they recently went through a civil war. We are trying to stabilise the situation and help them out the best we can but another force moving in there would cause some unrest I suspect.

He is silent as your warning carries over to him Your appraisal of the situation is noted he says curtly after a few moments

Thank you. Well, with the situation as it is here, there is little more for me to do, so thank you for your hospitality as ever, and hopefully next time we meet, we can get that drink.

2:28 PM

(With that nullifying the goals regarding the carrier wreck, would it be possible for me to amend them to be broader, along the lines of, recover a carrier wreck, and restore the carrier wreck?)

(sure we can do that)

(Great, updated!) Unless you have anything that you think is relevant, I'll take my leave back to Heras?

Travel safely. I am sorry again about the carrier.

Stay safe as well Valentina heads off and back to Heras, a little disappointed, but none the less

12:42 PM

(4 day spike, 76/90 Administer?)

(matches what I have)

Having returned to Heras once again, Valentina sets about examining the forces Kay has set aside for attempting to clear the bandits forces from around Stygia. (I'm not entirely sure how you want to do this mission, is it a mass combat supported by a mission using a smaller force, or just a standard mission, what do you think?)

(The bandits don't number in the high hundreds in one place to even make the smallest mass combat formation, I'd planned to run it as a standard mission)

(Sounds perfect to me, I wasn't sure how big there force was, so that works well!)

1:05 PM

Valentina contacts the Khan of Stygia, message reads:

Khan,
We are shortly to be deploying forces to attempt to eliminate as much of the bandits force in one key strike, I would be interested to know however if you have any intel as to where they may be holled up, and also to invite you to take part in the raid, as the first joint operation with the Elysium Protectorate. You are of course under no obligation, but I thought it could form a good training and integration exercise.

Sincerely,
Valentina Spiros

you would have luck along the rivers and likely in the dead woods nearby as well. Follow them long enough , and there will be boats or encampments

Thanks for the tip off, let's hope we find them! Valentina sets off to ensure that the troops are ready to move, and then she loads her equipment ready to take the Atlas out on its first excursion! (I don't know how many people Kay has allotted to this, but the Atlas can seat 8, so if we've got more than that, we may need to take another vehicle?)

(I will get with him and see what he had put together for this)

1

The IFV, one troop of scouts (about 100 guys), one rocket truck, one HMG truck, 1 helicopter. Intent is a zone reconnaissance in order to identify and destroy pirate strongholds and disrupt violent activities along the river. Tempo: Deliberate and forceful Engagement criteria: any hostile action taken against EP forces, PID of one or more squads of pirate troops, 1 or more vehicles manned by pirates.

Having been assigned a larger force than Valentina had anticipated, she sends details of their route and that they will be departing the following morning (I presume that's enough time to mobilise everything) and that ideally as many of the bandits as possible will be captured, but if necessary then lethal force is acceptable.

(Yeah that’s enough time for everyone to get there. Let’s get a d10 too)

(1, this could never be bad!)

(Just for some hex generation) The county to the south of the city following the river bed is flat and the dead trees are thin here. The river itself is blue in some places with patches of ashy grey in others. The barge traffic is less frequent as you pass the farms and mines, now in the countryside where the pirates and bandits are known to roam. The helicopter is also airborne now and is assisting the hunt. From their lofty position they advise you hold and wait, as it looks like a pair of speedboats are making an approach

"Ok, we'll hold position, until your signal," Valentina prepares the railgun, ensuring that the safeties are off, should it need to be used at a moment's notice.

Valentina also sends up a single Quintus MK1 to act as her eyes in the sky, so that she is not purely relying on radio contact with the helecopter.

The quietus spots the boats coming, two armored models with heavy machine guns on the bow and several pirates aboard. Several of them have rifles and other assorted small arms. They are five kilometers out right now and closing

Valentina tries to hail them on the radio first, "This is Valentina Spiros, of the Elysium Protectorate, we have you surrounded and outgunned. We request your immediate surrender, and you will not be harmed. Please unload your Machine Guns and small arms, and throw the ammo overboard, we will see if you do not, and closing within 2km of here without doing so will be considered as an act of aggression." (edited)

(our new person might be joining this one since he's got a soldier background, we'll see what happens come morning)

(Sounds great!)

@Teucer , standing near Valentina, hears her request the surrender of the incoming pirates, but it does not seem like they are complying. The group assigned to this anti-bandit detail are recruits, a mix of a handful of veterans, and the reserve company of Myrmidons who under Cyrus did not participate in the battle at The Garden of Bones, and did not yet earn their power armor. None the less, their training is akin to Mytikas regular soldiery

Untried and unbloodied, Teucer has the youthful confidence of invincibility that will carry him through any engagement. Excited for the action to begin, he checks his kit for the 4th time and listens in for any orders.

The pirates do not seem to be making any motions to stop, or surrender. They've either heard the message and chosen to ignore it, or cannot hear the radio calls at all

"Well, we have the superior numbers and firepower, so let's see if they fire first, or are wise enough to negotiate." Valentina prepares commands for the four expert systems on the Scorpio drones to fly up fan out and fire to suppress should the command be sent.

(how far from the boats are the drones going to be taking station? and what are you having the vehicles and soldiers with you do?)

(The drones I was envisaging being around 1km above the Atlas, and slightly behind.) "All ground vehicles to spread out to allow overlapping fields of fire onto the river, helo please hold position and prepare to return fire should it be necessary, but if you start take fire, please bank away, and commence attack runs. I'd like twenty men with each of the trucks, and 8 in the Atlas, to act as rapid response as needed. All other squad leader take your units and fan out a little, use the cover of the trees where available, but stay close, and radio if you see anything moving that isn't the boats on the river." (Teucer, up to you which group you go with, the group in the Atlas will be with me and the rest are a little more spread out, so take your pick, unless Neko or your backstory suggest otherwise, I suspect you could lead whichever of the squads you run with!)

(I'm good with him going wherever! We'll roll it all out once we're positioned!)

(Does the Helo have any weapons aboard or is that just recon?)

(I'll double check)

11:24 AM

(they're just scouts. Room for a couple people on the side running boards, but nothing mounted or heavy)

(Ok, so in which case probably five in each helo? Pilot, co pilot, three in the back.)

(4, pilot, co pilot and one solder on each side board)

(Teucer will most likely be with one of the groups on foot, he is young and inexperienced so likely doesn't hold any rank but may hold a degree of authority over those nearby)

(Suits me, I think we're as prepared) Seeing the boats continue to advance, Valentina finally draws her shear rifle, a look of resignation on her face

The concealment is perfect, as as the two speedboats come around the bend, Teucer is one of the first to see them (initiative, we;ll get yours, vals, and the pirates, and ill sort of fill everything else in around it to make a wider combat, and this'll spin off into some smaller missions)

(6)

(Teucer, Val, Pirates) the speedboats move to 500m from the woodline where most of the EP forces are hidden, their boats unaware death is waiting for them on the other side of the trees.

Teucer is secreted away in a bush, concealed from sight towards the river. He can see that the boats are still out of range but will train the sights of his Combat Rifle on the lead craft, watching, waiting ready to pounce. (Teucer intends to attempt an execution on the driver once in range, if that isn't possible, he will work through the highest threats i.e MG gunner)

(You dont have the full minute of set up time needed for a shot before they get out of range, especially now that we've entered initiative)

3:10 PM

(They're gonna pass you by before you get a bead)

(in that case, he'll let rip with a burst of fire as soon as the lead craft is in range. He'll still aim for the pilot of the craft as he wants to prevent them passing his position if possible)

(it is, attack/damage when you're ready then)

(23 to hit, 2 damage)

(if you click the combat rifle in your sheet it will do the math for you in the future) The combat rifle barks, the burst fire sending sparks up as it strikes the pilot compartment, and lightly wounds him. He's holding onto the controls for now

Valentina levels the Atlas' Railgun, knowing that now shots have been fired, they are past the point of no return, she targets one of the boats, hoping to slow them down if nothing else. She then manually targets two of the drones at the boats, again hoping to disable them, and she allows the expert systems to take over the final two drones, and lay down suppression fire as commanded earlier. (10/16, 28/15 for the first boat 17/16 on the second boat 6 and 8 damage from suppression, with evasion saves to take zero.)

(so we have 3 direct shots and 2 suppressing?)

(Yep)

The second boat is able to escape the suppressive fire, and although its engines smoke from the more directed shots, a small fire breaking out on its engine deck, it continues barreling forward, trying to escape the killbox. the machine gun pans up, trying to sweep the drones. The first boat is a burning wreck, engines dying, it drifts entirely aflame toward the shore, the pirates, some also aflame, jumping out and splashing into the water. At least half the crew of 15 is dead already, or about to die

8:37 AM

(and just need an evasion for all the drones val)

(What stats do I use to work out for the target for a drones' evasion save?)

(would be v 16-program lev

3:22 PM

(theres nothing specific in the book, but it uses program for everything else, and 16 is the base save value)

3:22 PM

(so in your case it would be result v 15)

(Fair enough, that makes suppression great against drones, but I suppose that makes sense, results incoming)

3:25 PM

(2 pass, 2 fail)

(I don't think it was ever envisioned to have people running with packs of them, so suppression doesnt really make sense on a lone target and probably wasnt included in the rules for that reason. I dont mind that we are using fair amounts of them, but there's always a drawback) (edited)

(Yep, that seems very fair)

(is that the end of the pirate's turn?)

(I need to know the damage on the drones, but then I believe so?)

(15. Sorry. Had a repair guy here for the treadmill)

6:16 PM

)I was away from a computer)

(Val can let us know whats been shot down, but Teucer is next. One pirate ship is burning, the crew either dead or paddling in the river, ship 2 wasnt really hurt, and is continuing to sail by)

After witnessing the destruction of the first boat, Teucer feels a jolt of adrenaline. Disappointed as to the effect of his last shot, he fires a burst at the second craft, again aiming for the pilot.

7:57 PM

(19 to hit, 8 damage)

The pilot slumps over the wheel, and it spins violently to the left, angling the boat toward the shore. The pirate manning the front gun laughs as the dead-man's grasp brings the cannon around, and he prepares to sweep the shoreline (Evasion save Teucer and Val)

8:18 PM

(you're in hard cover, so if passed, no damage)

(2vs14, failure)

(Val passes her evade, for the damage to the drones, has presumably that 15 hasn't been halved yet?)

(Also, what weapon are they using, because I was looking for a 3d6 roll for a machine gun, and I could well be going blind, or it may not have loaded, but I can't for the life of me find one?)

(The 15 was the base value. They rolled 3d8’s for it, as it’s a pattern the pirates are using )

6:36 AM

(I didn’t roll hmg damage for the current thing I asked evasions for, was waiting to see the results)

(Oo, they have some nice kit then, so halved to 8 presumably, as we normally round up, meaning two drones are shot down!)

(right)

7:10 AM

The squad sergeant dashes forward, trying to lead the men forward and is atomized by the blast, as it saws through the treeline, taking the hit meant for Teucer, though he is coated in steaming gore from his companion (10 damage if you don't make your own personal evasion save Val)

7:11 AM

(Oh you did, Val up, then Teucer again)

(ouch that thing is gnarly)

(What is left of their troops?)

(6 pirates in the river, and 12 on boat 2, since only the pilot is dead)

Valentina targets the second boat with the Atlas' Railgun, attempting to disable the engines, or start to sink it if possible, the pair of remaining Scorpio drones, are instructed to spread out to make the suppressive fire less effective, focus their returning suppressive fire on the crew of the second boat, trying to force them to keep their heads down. (22/12 on the shot at the boat, 8 and 6 for evasion saves against the crew of the boat, and also the boat if it is caught in the spray I suppose?) (edited)

Three of the pirates in the boat are torn to ribbons as the suppressive fire rakes over the deck. Light wounds adorn many others, though the boat continues floating, though with several more holes in it

11:42 AM

(Teucer)

11:42 AM

(the MG gunner is still up as well, btw. wounded but not dead)

After seeing the squad sergeant obliterated in front of him, Teucer will sprint for harder cover than just cover from view. landing behind a tree, he will call for fire on the MG gunner before following his own advice (5 to hit [nat 1] )

(We dont do crit fails, which is rad)

11:46 AM

The shots spark off the metal plating, though those around you heed your innate authority, and your sensible orders. Fire from the squad and the Atlas vehicle is poured into the bow of the vessel, knocking the gunner out and severing the boat in two, sending both halves spinning back toward the center of the river

11:46 AM

(all thats left are pirates in the river. It won't really be a roll to just execute all of them kind of thing, but we also have no intel about where more might be)

11:46 AM

(as things stand right now)

(did any of the pirates from the second boat survive or is it just the first 6 still in the water?)

(there are 15 in the water right now as survivors between both boats)

"Take them as our esteemed guests, I'd like to interview as many of them as possible"

12:37 PM

(How deep and/or fast flowing is the river?)

"If you wish to live move to the bank" Teucer will order the pirates before advancing towards the bank himself and watching for threats among the floundering men (is the patrol boat MG salvageable or has it sunk to the river bed?)

(It's flowing slowly but its deep)

1:46 PM

(It has sunk)

1:46 PM

(you guys shot the boat to pieces anyway)

1:47 PM

Several of them begin swimming for the opposite shore, as the EP helicopter sets down, and the soldiers on its running boards get out, and also point rifles at the pirates from the opposite bank, robbing them of a safe place to go

If anyone attempts to continue down river Teucer will fire a warning shot ahead of them before shooting them if they do not swim to the bank

"Once our guests are rounded up, I suggest we take them one at a time, and ask them politely where there friends are, assuming they are unwilling to render assistance, I suggest we drop them at Stygia, and continue scouting the area with patrols. Any other suggestions Teucer?"

Valentina also digitally marks the location of the wrecks, so she can try and get the advanced machine guns recovered later. (edited)

Teucer is one of several soldiers dragging the captives to shore, binding them in cuffs and sitting them together under armed guard. They've remains quiet, but to cough, and spit water so far

8:12 PM

Most of them are injured from either small arms, fire , or debris in the river when abandoning ship

Teucer will direct any triage work. "There is no point any of them dying on us now" he thinks, before separating any officers or NCOs from the group. Starting with these he will bring them back to Valentina (or whoever is conducting the interrogation. Teucer is still a low level grunt so I am pretty happy to run with what you are doing. What are the legal proceedings like on this planet? Are the pirates likely to get a trial and be imprisoned?)

(If Val gets her way, then yes, trial then imprisonment, there are some Khan's who would probably just pass judgement themselves, and although EP hasn't got a formalised trial process, this would probably be a good opportunity to form one!)

(will the prisoners be safe in Stygia or will we need to guard them to prevent a Khan from executing them? If that is the case, it may be easier to hold them with us while we continue to maintain momentum)

(I think so, the Khan of Stygia was quite level headed last time I was there, and if we ask him not to execute them, pointing out that we need them for intel, I think they will be kept alive)

(yeah he wants this handled, he's level headed enough to understand they have some value right now)

7:13 AM

(We're not going to worry about ranks Teucer, long term, military characters dont work that well since you have no agency over your own actions, your missions become waiting to be told to do things and that isnt very fun)

(Superb, Teucer, have you a preference of what you'd like to do next?) (edited)

(I'd prefer to press on, depending on what the main force does, maybe get some scouting in)

(OK) "Teucer, how would you like to lead a squad to scout, while I take our guests to Stygia, and see what intel they will volunteer. Then once we have a location, we can regroup for an assault. How does that sound?" (OOC, I don't mind which bits of the force you take with you, it's your choice based on what you think will suit your style of scouting best.)

(Neko, shall I take this over to my channel? Hopefully if everything goes smoothly in Stygia it'll be quite a short scout so I'll only take a squad. 7 guys)

(yeah we can do that then since you're diverging to other things)

8:25 AM

(before that though, 3xp, 5000 credits for both of you)

8:25 AM

(should get you to lvl 2 there Teucer, just post your level up in your channel when you know how you're spending the points)

(Wonderful, sounds good) Valentina directs the remainder of the forces to divert to Stygia, keeping the Helo overhead, to spot any approaching forces.

The river remains quiet, as forces withdraw from the area, prisoners in tow. You have a chance to question them now that the immediate threat seems to have passed

Valentina will take one of the prisoners, the most senior if one is obvious, otherwise just at random, have them escorted to the Atlas, where a small area, with a fold down table, has been set up as a very comfortable interrogation room, with the temperature set to a very comfortable 18°C, and she sits on one side of the table, and invites the prisoner to sit on the other. "So, my first question is a simple one, and if answered honestly, will save us a great deal of time, effort, and discomfort." She pauses for a moment, allowing that time to sink in, as well as judging their reaction. "Where is your main encampment?"

"What do I get in return? think I'd sell out my brothers and sister for nothing?"

"Quite simply, a fair trial with the Elysium Protectorate. I suspect you will get let out, given the lack of evidence against you. Alternatively, I take you to Stygia, and leave you with the Khan who's been baying for the blood of those interfering in his affairs, and let him pass judgement in his court, which may not go well. Of course, this applies to all of you comrades, but I will certainly look favourably upon the individual that chooses to save me time and expedite my enquiries."

"Lack of evidence? I'm not trying to make a case against myself here but you pulled me from a river, while armed, and from a pirate vessel. How are you guaranteeing I won't see indefinite prison?"

"I would wonder, who ever mentioned pirates, I certainly didn't, no, you were merely an onlooker, who provided us with useful intelligence, before heading on his way. Alternatively, I'm feeling fairly generous, so I'll give you another option, if you want, you can be adopted into the Elysian Military, we're always in need of good shots, and then we needn't worry about any of your past."

“I’d take that option. If you can guarantee enlistment I’ll tell you everything I know”

"I can, please, start talking"

"Follow the rivers. We have several bases along them, heading south, and into the sea. I've also been to a large hub that is protected by a blue water fleet, deep in the western ocean"

"Ok, can you roughly mark out the bases on a map?" Valentina passes over a compad with the local area map on, and a digital pen to mark out the areas. "And then about this 'Blue Water fleet' what in that, and when you say deep into, is that underneath, or a long way from land?"

"Blue water..away from coastal waters. It's a nautical term" (Brown water/green water = shore/shallows, like water over the continental shelf. Blue water is deep water, open ocean)

(Ah, nice, not something I'd ever come across in life! Arguably, something Val wouldn't know either, so nice to have an IC answer as well!) "Ok, thanks, when it comes to terminology, I'm far more au fait with sailing into the blackness of space, than the wide seas, but if that's where I must go, then so be it. Have you any other information that you think might be pertainant?"

"We havent been back to the hub in a while, this was going to be our last big push for something to bring back with us before we gave it up for the season. Can't really tell you mcuh about what's going on back there"

"Ok, well, thank you for your cooperation, and I look forward to hearing about your distinguished military career."

12:12 PM

Valentina then gestures for him to leave, as she types out a report to sent on to Teucer, and the Elysian Cloud. (edited)

The messages are sent, and Teucer begins working on his search elsewhere along the rivers

"Ok everyone, next will be scouting out the main camp, but that doesn't need this level of manpower, so I'll leave you all in the capable hands of <<Relevant NPC in charge>> and we'll reconvene when we have a target, in the meantime, coordinate with Teucer's unit, and capture as many cells of pirates with minimal casualties." (Are grav explorers capable of sea travel, or just calmer waters, river and lakes etc?) (edited)

(only calm waters)

(Ok, presumably EP don't have any ocean going vessels at present?) (edited)

(nothing other than spaceships with amphibious operations)

(Ok, possibly time to roll out the Omni Builder, I'll post something once I've got a plan in mind!)

While Valentina is trying to come up with a plan, she radios to the Phobos, for it to do a flyover of the ocean area to the west of Stygia, to use the survey scanner to try to pick up any large vessels.

8:17 PM

8:19 PM

(Assuming I have the face for both of the above, if they cost face at all, Val would send the designs for them to be built, although I could do with some guidance on how long they may take to build) (edited)

(okay, so the suit mech is for you, that does cost face, and you have enough since your cruiser was so bare bones)

8:40 PM

(the argo im assuming is a boat?)

(The Argo is a boat yes, but with Environment, Space so it can fly, and as it gets sealed atmosphere bundled in with that, it can also operate underwater!)

(the Argos can submerge but without the water environment fitting it does not have underwater propulsion)

9:14 PM

(tinker is also not applying to the pretech cost here, since they're not mods, they're fittings)

(I thought you got the default propulsion for the type of vehicle it was fluffed as, so water, as a boat? Oh, ok, I presumed it would, just because as far as I know, when Engines of Babylon was published, mods weren't a thing, and Tinker didn't exist. If we say these aren't mods, then are there any mods for vehicles that I've missed somewhere? Because if not, they seem to fit the role of mods perfectly?) (edited)

(This is still in discussion. Will let you know finalized decision at some point today)

(Ok, sounds good, I'll wait with baited breath)

(Design is good, just deduct the pretech but otherwise its all correct, default environment is water, so you wouldnt also need thaT)

(Oh wonderful, I'll update that and send the new copy) (edited)

1:06 PM

(I had to fudge the numbers to get it to show correctly, but does that look right to you now?)

(Neko meant that you need to deduct the pretech cost from your bank. Tinker Level 2 does not apply to Pretech Vehicle Fittings) (edited)

(Oh I see, in which case back to the drawing board)

(I had the same question/hope about Tinker L2. These are considered fittings on the vehicle not modifications to the vehicle)

(Yep, that's fair enough, I'm thinking the solution will be to have vehicle groups, with different vehicles with different specialisations, to cover the required bases, but that should work!)

(Would the Phobos have managed to go and perform a survey in the time it takes me to get back to Mytikas?) (edited)

(It would be underway by time you get back)

(OK, superb) Valentina sends her updated designs over to the factories, asking how long they think it will take them to build that force for her.

(Build speed for vehicles is equal to your ship build rate)

(Ah, perfect)

9:59 AM

(How many slots?)

(standby)

10:01 AM

(I would say you could build two vehicles at a time at EP's build rate, Neko may change this)

(Yeah we never really had people laying out multiple vehicles at a time like this, until we get a more formal ruling together I'd say your vehicle slots are the same number as your ship slots)

(Ok, sounds good to me, I'll do some maths) (edited)

10:05 AM

(18 Days to get everything together, rounded up) (edited)

10:07 AM

(I think I'd like to do the flyover first, and then we can figure out what to do next based on that?)

(Did you want to be present on the Phobos for the flyover then since your private navy is building?)

(Yep, I think that would make the most sense?)

(works for me, just wanted to know where to go) The navy plans are submitted, and AGE ships will begin coming off the assembly yards in allied Chiron, as it is close to the coast and more easily transported there. The Phobos lands outside the city of Mytikas on the landing fields, with a compliment of intelligence personnel from the city, ready to begin the hunt for additional pirate forces, and to ensure the seas are clean of threats

"Good afternoon Ladies and Gentlemen. glad to have you all along for this, hopefully we can get some good reconnaissance on the pirates base of operations, and see what sort of force we may be dealing with. Everyone aboard please"

Valentina gestures towards the cargo bay door, and up the stairs onto the bridge.

The crew and their equipment begins loading aboard the vessel, and the mapping sofrware on the bridge begins working to try to abstract enough data from the abstraction you were given

"OK, lets set out, we can finish setting up the equipment on route"

The team boards and scanners are set up. Flying west across the plains you see little in the way of activity though one day trade caravans May cross the river lands freely. You make your way out to open ocean, passing the new forest Kayden created with help from the Layzal

Valentina looks out, noting the dramatic change of scenery, seeing how lush the area is becoming. As they fly over, her mind also begins to consider possibilities for the future expansion of Heras, and how can they produce what they need for an ever growing population, without damaging the beauty of the fragile planet below. She makes a note, to look into what resources can be sustainably produced and farmed here. (Goal Added) As they pass over the open ocean, Valentina directs the ship higher, trying to stay above what cloud cover is available, and then using the survey scanner and the additional scanners that were installed to get the information from a distance.

(program/int at +2)

(10)

(vs 9) you're able to see where something isn't, as your scans of the ocean below begin filtering in. A large 10km dome of signal interference shows up on the compiling maps as a void of collected data, rather than another patch in the giant map of the ocean surface being put together.

"Hmm, well, I don't know what your intelligence officials think, but I'd say that looks like our target, although certainly impressive that they have enough tech to disrupt scans of them. We may we'll be best going in underwater, that way we should be able to get closer before being detected. Although I must wonder whether they'll have sonar or minefields below the surface. Any thoughts?"

"They're doing something right to last and operate out here this long, I'm sure they've considered the ways someone might approach their main settlement"

"Yep, I wonder whether they're able to move it around as around as well, or whether it's anchored to the seabed? Anyone got the seabed depth here written down?"

No maps of the seabed or it’s depth exist in Mytikas records though as an ocean it is presumably deep

(Are there any readings suggesting active Quantum ECM in the same area as the signal interference?)

(The whole idea of ECM is that there are no signals coming in or out. It just appears as a void)

(Oo, ok, I'd not realised that was in the background, cool! So if it's interference rather that absence, could Val infer that there isn't active QECM?)

(I suppose the best thing I can say without being too needlessly vague is you could make an educated guess, but the jury is out on what it might do to drones)

Valentina, 
My team and I are progressing down the river and have found evidence of a FOB along the coast, we are moving to assess it's strength now. Thus far there has been no sign of any other land based camps but we have managed to capture one of the Pirate's patrol craft. The engine is currently inoperable but my team is working to fix it. Is it possible for you to provide technical assistance if this proves beyond our abilities? 
Many thanks, 
Teucer

(edited)

(Ok, presumably we've been flying outside visual range at the moment?)

(that's right. You mentioned being very high up, as well)

(That's perfect just thinking about heading lower) "Ok, I'm going to head a little lower in the suit, it has a far smaller profile than the ship, so the chance of showing up on sensors is much lower, even so, I'll keep my distance." She goes up to the armoury, and dons the Aegis, making sure that the armour is correctly fitted and that the visor is perfectly clear, wouldn't want a spec of dirt to obscure her view. She steps into the cargo bay, opens the rear doors, and waits for the Phobos to be on a flight away from the interference zone. When the moment arrives, she dives off the ramp, enjoying the sensation of freefall, and at the last moment applies just enough thrust to lift her away from the ocean's surface, and into a smooth climb. She climbs up to around 5000m and works her way towards the bubble until she is around 5km from the edge, trying to spot whatever is lurking where the sensors cannot penetrate.

3

4:11 PM

Down below, a massive complex houses over a dozen war vessels of various size, the largest being analogous to a battleship in its own right. Countless speed boats, foils, and a pair of ultralight helicopters patrol close to the fort, and work to provide anti submarine and intrusion protection. The fort's anti air defenses have not detected you yet, as ECM is indiscriminate, but your own sensors are likewise not working in this null zone

Valentina takes a moment to record footage of the goings on, and does a high speed pass in a circle around the base, staying 5km outside the bubble at all times, and trying to get as much as possible for the boffins to analyse and hopefully turn into actionable intel. With a much clearer picture of what they may face, she directs the Phobos to return to Heras, as she returns the footage, and flies back towards land to assist Teucer. She takes a while to enjoy the sensation of such free flight, the acrobatic nature of the suit, and it's ability to turn on a dime, astonishes her still. (edited)

There is nothing new to be seen by lingering, the normal day to day life of the shipyard and its people continues, knowing they are being observed or not.

As the day gets later, the Phobos having been instructed to return to Myktas, she arrives inland to the area in which Teucer's squad has been operating. (Is it ok if I hop to Teucer's thread?)

(sure thing)

(Sorry, I've been absent but I don't want to keep you waiting any longer. Permission to build on Chloe :+1: Just imagine I wrote a really Dax-like response that was really flippant and informal.)

(That's great, I can certainly imagine the style!)

Level Up 7 -> 8!
HP: 49 -> 51

Skills: 8 SP available (4 Banked last level up)
Program 1 -> 2 (3SP)
Pilot 0 -> 1 (2SP)
Bank 3SP for later

(edited)

(OK, as I don't know of any resource nodes on Chloe, is there a mission in that do you think?)

8:03 PM

(Also I added a couple more goals a while back, they may be too close to the mission I just proposed, but if they are let me know and I'll clear them out)

(exploring some hexes on a planet is always a mission)

8:13 PM

(and XP added)

After the Elysian Cloud meeting has concluded, Valentina will start making the arrangements for her departure, loading up the Phobos with the Atlas, and all the necessary support systems for the Aegis, and the racks of drones that are prepared for different scenarios, as well as buying up a few more medical supplies, if she can find somewhere that they are available. (Purchases if available: 2x Scorpio drones as replacements for those lost = 31,500 24x Medpak = 2400 12x Anti Tox = 1200 12x Rad Pak = 600) She then radios up to the orbital platform, for it to ready the Low Tech for departure, and directs the Phobos to fly direct to Chloe, ready to meet them there.

(Okay so Low tech is taking you to Yauvani to scout, and the Phobos is going to chill at Chloe and wait for you so you can do some scouting after?)

(Yep, then the Low Tech can head to head back to Heras while Val faffs about on Chloe)

The medical supplies are loaded aboard the respective ship, and both vessels make ready to head out inot the stars. (4 days of spike travel from Heras)

(Administer 80/90) As they move into system, Valentina pulls up a Comms panel and prepares to conceal their ship's emmisions from any long range sensors.

(i have to get the detect/find page in front of me again, so I can give you your program modifiers)

(I believe it's +2 for Emission dampers, +2 for low emmisions, +3 for being a fighter class hull, then you get a bonus depending on what's doing the detecting?)

(yes, and i get +5 as a planet)

1:32 PM

(9)

(Perfect!)

1:33 PM

(21)

You are not detected as you fly over Yauvani. Small towns have been walled entirely, and converted into something like camps, where the planets large cities have been almost entirely depopulated, instead the countryside is dotted with what are essentially human holding pens, with human serfs working like those of the Middle Ages in fields, mines, and forests, all under the watchful eyes of the culler robots- and their Ghoul masters

(Are there any space facing weapons on the ground, or other ship's patrolling the system)

anti ship weapons on the ground but no local defense patrols in space

"Ok, at least this area isn't too heavily guarded, although I suspect fighting on the ground could prove quite a challenge. My question is where on earth is their fleet, perhaps we should have a look in Urreturre to see what defenses they have there, we don't want to find a fleet baring down on us while we're trying to sort out capturing the ground assets."

4:05 PM

"I think we've got all the information we can for now though, let's head out to Urreturre."

(one day in spike, and then same thing with the hide roll)

2:04 PM

(they have some very robust space sensors)

(Ok, here goes nothing then, Administer 81/90) (edited)

2:08 PM

(23)

(24) The myriad defense satellites come online as the vessel enters the system and dozens of target locks appear on the Low Tech's main Hud, as the clumsy iron rods from god systems begin cylcing up for their first round of firing. The pilot is jinking wildly trying to put the asteroids that litter the system between himself and the weapon satellites tracking you, but it seems like every move has old locks rolling off, and you come into range of a new set of defenses

2:10 PM

There is no sign of a fleet here either, jsut thousands of weapon satellites

"Definitely time to leave!" Valentina plots a route out of system as fast as possible, and hops forward to Chloe.

(Pilot/int)

2:14 PM

(we're going to need to use the emergency drill activation)

(10)

The emergency drill is successful, and you emerge at Chloe after a day, though the system needs a month to recalibrate and recharge on its own. For now, the Low TEch won't be responding to any more emergencies

(Administer 82/90) "Phew, at least we got out of there unscathed. Let's head out and rendezvous with the Phobos, then we can decide what to do next" (edited)

Meeting up with the Phobos, Valentina heads across, and gives the pilot aboard the Low Tech instructions to return to Heras but heading via the southern route of Muntsaratz and Tecmessa, just in case the Ghoul King's fleet is patrolling another system.

Hailing Chloe Traffic Control, 
We're here on behalf of the Aphroditan Guild to perform a survey prior to the establishment of manufacturing facilities. How might we proceed?

(edited)

(sorry, all 3 of your messages came in while I was still sleeping)

7:35 AM

Chloe traffic control allows you to set down where you wish for local exploring. Orbital scans of the planet have been done extensively already and have yielded what little information they can already

(Nothing to worry about, I wasn't in a rush, but the first 2 didn't give you much to go on! I've no preconceived idea of where to set down, so anywhere that hasn't been explored yet?)

(right, most of the countryside hasnt been looked into)

(How about the mountainous area to the west of Praxis Pranda?)

(No ones been there!)

(Great, let's land there then, and see what we can find!)

(d10 to kick me off)

(10)

As you land in the mountains your scanner comes to life almost right away, signifiying rare elements are nearby, but they are not registering on the scanner database

1:14 PM

(something new)

2

(Something new is always very cool) Valentina steps off the ship, and checks the area around them is clear, once she has spent a moment scanning for movement, she pulls out a survey scanner and starts to take soil samples, attempting to identify the compounds in the soil.

Nothing in the immediate area is triggering the chemical analysis, as if just landing and digging were ever all it took. There is a larger signal return slightly higher up into the mountains, but there does not look to be an easy way up

Valentina shrugs her shoulders, an action she realises is not terribly apparent from within a suit mech, but no matter, not like there's anyone particularly watching anyway. She activates a Occultus, sending it high into the air, a Medicus and a Quintus, each of which she directs to hold position over her shoulders. She then gives a thought of weightlessness to the Aegis, and it obliges, rising gently off the ground as she flies out towards the area where the readings were at their densest.

The land is steep, rocky, and jagged. Climbing this on foot or even in a vehicle would be almost impossible, and all the while the returns get stronger. A rookery of birds travels skyward as the thruster sounds disturb their rest, and you see a ring of the rock points below you, poking out of the ground like a monarch's crown.

Hmm, rock formations, the stuff of magic and mysticism, what's the worst that can happen... Valentina starts to scan the formation and the areas around it, trying to locate any movement, anything alive up here, with some curiosity as to whether anything is able to survive on such harsh terrain, never mind survive.

Valentina! It is nice to hear you’re thinking about bringing new business and work for the people of Tsatsos. I myself, just expanded operations in mining on Tsatsos so if you know of a new prospect, you’re more than welcome to expand and offer employment to the community. I have been making it a focus to bring employment down in the region.

(Up to Neko if you can find a place to mine or not.)

(Yep, I thought worth getting permission, then I can come and do some exploration so that's great!)

There is no movement in the rocks , but the return contact is strong. Whatever is setting off the scanner is right below the crown of rock.

Valentina sets down a little uphill of the rock structure, and works her way through the rocks, scanning and trying to find what depth the deposit is at.

The deposit is 25m down, before the scanner becomes too garbled for find other information

Hmm, 25m, deep, but perhaps not too deep to at least get a sample and find out what it is Valentina produces the Mech's breeching tool from it's forearm, manipulates the setting for maximum depth, and sets about trying to dig down to it.

(I'm uncomfortable with giving a melee weapon a 25m reach , but i want to reward you for out of the box thinking here. Normally and from now on, we wouldnt be able to do this)

1:10 PM

The pickaxe/demolition charge combo sends the poorly packed ground skyward instead, raining chunks of dirt and waste debris down onto the surrounding area. Below it, some kind of scaled golden element is nestled, wedged in among more waste material. The unknown substance is flat, veined in blue, and geometric on its outsides

(Ok, that's cool!) Valentina looks in, raising the survey scanner to try and get a clear reading (I'm not sure how effective the survey scanner is at a distance, so I may need to go down the hole, if I do, is it wide enough?)

3

(the hole is wide enough for you as your normal humanoid size outside the mech)

Realising that the hole is to narrow for the Aegis to pass down, Valentina heads back to the Phobos to collect rope and climbing gear. She then sets up the Aegis as an anchor point at the top of the hole, attaches the rope to the Aegis and begins the abseil down into the hole.

The reflected sunlight off the surface of the revealed mineral casts you in your own golden glow, like the touch of midas himself. The rock resembles shards of gold glass, and it is lightweight when you go to pick up some of the smaller nuggets

Valentina drops one of the smaller nuggets into the survey scanner to try and get a read of what the materials composition is

the scanner has no information on this never before discovered material

(You know, now you say it, that makes so much sense! To the Lab!) Valentina takes a series of samples from different parts of the crystal structure and boxes them up for transport back to Heras, not having suitable lab facilities to identify the samples here. She sends a message ahead to the Aphroditan Guild HQ on Heras to procure suitable equipment for a lab. (Would a Sanctum lab at 25k be suitable?) She then boards the Phobos ready to return to Heras via Zia-Al-Gulam, Kingiri, Muntsaratz, Tecmessa, Radji to avoid passing back through the Ghoul King's territory. (It's just passing through unless there's something particularly notable in system, but we'll need to stop to scoop in each location. Stopping in Tecmessa for longer would be good, as we've not heard from them in a while, and I'd be curious to know how they're getting on with rebuilding their civilization.) (edited)

(The sanctum lab would work. I will have to generate something for Kingiri, and fueling via scoops is 4 days each where no downtime can be taken)

3:27 PM

(Chloe can fuel you if you wanted to make a more direct path home)

(Yep, I'd fuel at Chloe, but with spike 3, I couldn't jump straight to Koraa-S could I?)

(We could do Chloe to Muntzaratz, to Tecmessa, Radji, Heras)

3:46 PM

(its one hex extra on that first jump but im ok with it) (edited)

(Ok, sounds good to me!)

(Snd you said you wanted to stop at one?)

(Yep, Tecmessa, just to pick up the local news, find out how their rebuild is going etc)

(So, 7 days across to Tecmessa? 89/90 Administer) (edited)

(yes)

3:19 PM

(sorry, been busy. My brother just left0

(No rush, just thought it saves you a job!)

Tecmessa is quiet, and there is evidence a SCAF ship was just here. One of the half constructed settlements on the surface no longer has a power reading, and it seems there are no longer signs of life on the surface as the constructed settlements here have failed.

"Valentina Spiros calling Tecmessa Station 1, are you recieving me?"

Tecmessa has no station and there is nothing here now, just empty space, and desolate land below as the firestorms have finally subsumed the planet.

(Hang on, didn't the planet have three stations originally?)

(sure did!)

9:26 AM

(you're in the right place, things have happened whil you were gone)

How do three stations just up and vanish I wonder? "Let's run a scan, see if there's any life on or under the planet now? I can't say I'm hopeful though" (edited)

(program/int)

(14 or 16 if the survey sensor bonus is applied)

(16 is fine) There is no life on the planet below now aside from small animals and bugs. THere is nothing resembling human life.

(I guess this means my holdings here that were on the station are gone?) "Ok, nothing to be done for the time being, probably best to start trying to establish a colony on the planet, although that might need to include some more agricultural equipment than we'd hoped. Regardless, let's get back to Heras."

(yes)

(Ah well, 2 days spike back to Heras, Administer 0 Complete, Stab 1/90 as she starts to train with knives and such. And now actually to the Lab, assuming they've had time to construct it in the difference between the message arriving and is arriving?)

(yes they have)

4:21 PM

(message goes as the crow flies and can go straight lines where you cant since youve got to bounce planets)

(Ok, that's perfect then!) Valentina departs from the spaceport, to head to the recently erected headquaters, with the Aphroditan Guild insignia on three of its nine sides, in which is contained the main management of the guild as a whole, something which is steadily growing! Three of the floors on the upper levels have been marked for R&D research, but only very recently has the first lab on one of those floors been outfitted. Valentina finds her way there, and takes out the samples gathered on Chloe, and sets to work attempting to identify them. (Let me know if any of the above contradicts what is possible for the Guild's holdings on Heras, but I thought I'd try and lend a little flavour to it!)

(all within what youre supporting so far!)

1

4:36 PM

(im reading up on irl mineral identification to get something to use here, because i super dont want to condense this to a single know int roll)

(Sounds good!)

The mineral is placed into a jar, where half of it is broken away and sectioned off into small cubes to run tests with. The other half is sent away for preservation, and for scientists to make more direct observation of its physical properties.

1:54 PM

(can also name it, if you wish)

Prandonite, seems a fine name, after the city it was first found near! (Am I leaving the lab to it at this point for them to get back to me later?)

(unless you want to experiment with it, which i think makes sense to try to do)

(Yep, doing some experiments would be fun, I just didn't know if we'd reached the limit of my IC knowledge.) Spending a little time in the lab, Valentina sets herself first to determining the hardness of this crystal, by scratching it with samples of known hardness

The element ends up being around a 5 on the scale before a piece of faux-feldspar is able to leave a long disfiguring scratch down the sample

Next she will examine the melting point of the crystal

1670 C seems to be where it begins to become molten, just a few degrees centigrade above what it takes to melt titanium

She then places a sample under a microscope, and examines the crystal structure

The structure is hexagonal and perfectly symmetrical aside from where it was cut. It shears more easily lengthwise than across its width

8:50 PM

(So reasonably hard. Heat resistant. Cuts easily one way is what we know so far)

Valentina next tries alloying it with other metals, to determine what properties it then holds, steel and titanium seem pertainant to try, so she forms small ingots of the alloys

Melding it steel has a similar effect to titanium, making it more scratch and carbon wearing resistant. When welding with it, most of the new mineral is left over, making the welds incredibly strong. The material also becomes easy to machine, and could be made into armored scales, sheets for stamping parts, and dozens of other industrial applications

Excited by the number of new potential applications of this discovery, Val sends a message to her team at the Chloe HQ to go and set up a mining outpost above the deposit, to start extracting more of it. Just as she is about to leave the lab, a glint off the mineral sparks her interest into investigating the optical properties of the material, she cuts faceted edges into a sample, seeing how the material refracts light, wondering if it can again have industrial applications, or simply make some very nice jewellery.

It refracts light in the way a golden tinted diamond can, creating a dazzling gem if its cut properly.

8:26 AM

(it would take a good lapidary, but once its cut and set, its not going to crumble)

Valentina finds a sample around 2cm cubed, and cuts it carefully into a teardrop shape, setting it on a small gold necklace.

(I'm going to add a trade good for this and do an article writeup, there's not going to be any worlds wanting it right away, but if we open any new trading reports, we can make some trade links)

(Ok, superb!) Valentina heads up to her office, and starts to plan out where to head next. After a little thought, she plans an expedition up to the cluster of the planets to the north of Elysium Protectorate space. (Route would be Lerden, Ibalso Urt, Metanor, Tece and head on from there if that works for you?)

(alright, I'll get some stuff generated)

1

A little parts shopping, not building any of this now, just a little something to do in downtime:

Shear Rifle Mods:
Autotargeting - 4,000 (7 Days)
Infinite power - 10,000 (11.5 Days)

Armoured Undersuit (Mastercrafted) - 6,000 (14 Days)
Exoskeleton - 4,000 (3.5 Days)

Force Pavis - 10,000

Mastercrafted Medium Advanced Weapon (Rapier sort of thing that's in her character art) - 600 (14 Days)
Customized - 1000 (3.5 Days)
Boosted - 4000 (7 Days)
Auto Targeting - 4000 (7 Days)

Mastercrafted Metatool - 2000 (14 Days) (Pretty sure this has no mechanical benefit as it has no applicable mods, but it's definitely the sort of thing Val might make, just because she can!)

Total = 45.6k

(Let me know if any of these parts can't be found! Goals added when you get a moment (And a few old ones removed because they were no longer achievable)) (edited)

)they could all be done as long as you habe the pretech but could only be worked on one at a time )

(You've actually just become the first Taros to make a mineral science discovery off world as well by this last adventure, I'm getting the article updated with the mineral you found as we speak)

(Oo, that's nice to hear, and given I set up Val as a bit of an explorer, that fits in nicely! The one pretech for infinite power is covered by Tinker 2, and yep, building all the mods is going to take quite a while, but that's all well!)

(I will try to circle back to getting a report up tonight, I am not sure how my day is going to go today)

(Yep, no rush at all, you mentioned you had a busy day today, so I hope all goes as well as it can!)

No Atmosphere No Biosphere No Inhabitants TL Variable Lerden is not a planet but a star, where the endless gravitic tides of the universe have created shoals and reefs of asteroids, floating wrecks from all over the universe, and the remains of broken stellar bodies from elsewhere. Local space is incredibly stable and the orbits of the junk collections are slow, wide, and without variation. A gas giant also occupies this system with the remains of a fueling station built around it. It's holding tanks have exploded somehow, causing terminal damage. .

"Well, how about we make a pass around the asteroid belts, see if there are any wrecks that we might be able to tow home later!"

(program/int)

(11)

The wreck of some kind of gun shuttle is within the same orbital ring as you currently and seems the most put together of anything you can reach without risking your ship

"Ok, lets see where this shuttle could have come from, let's pull alongside, and I'll head out for a quick EVA." Valentina heads down to the hold, and suits up ready for the EVA

8:31 AM

(Also, realised I didn't do downtime, so three days spike, Mastercrafted Armoured Undersuit 3/14)

It’s outer airlock door is missing but the internal one seems intact. There is no power on its control pad to cycle the air though without the outer door it Id a lost cause anyway. There doesn’t seem to be another way into the ship without risking ripping your suit

"Hmm, looks like we might need to come back here with a shiptender's mount, and then we can establish some kind of salvage operation to really figure out what we might have in this system! I'll head back aboard, lets mark the system as one of interest and head on to Ibalaso Urt" Valentina heads back aboard and plots the route onward! (1 day downtime, Mastercrafted Armoured Undersuit 4/14 Also, would now be a suitable time to spend the three SP that I banked last level up as I worked out what I might use them for?) (edited)

(yeah go ahead, we're not in the middle of a situation where you're under threat)

6:34 PM

(so we can apply them. I'll get a report together for the next spot)

(Ok, perfect)

Know: -1 -> 0
Administer: 0 -> 1

Thin Atmosphere Variable Biosphere, Cold to Temperate TL 3 Thousands of Inhabitants Ibasalo Urt is a world of scattered settlements and a biosphere that runs through the planet in striations, appearing as a multi colored cat's eye marble from space. It is the only planet in its local section of space, warmed by a yellow-blue star. It does not have a moon or any orbiting solar bodies, but the system does also contain a small gas giant. The planet itself is marked by a central hot springs where MES powers seem to be weakened or nullified, the effect waxing and waning with time. A dark cult interested in both the pool, and the shadowy side of metaspace powers has recently been driven out of the planet's main settlement, though they were not killed. Watchful eyes keep a steady gaze on the surrounding countryside, expecting the group to return and try to wrest control of the city once again. Across a frozen eastern sea, bands of seasonal raiders dubbed "Ice Vikings" periodically harass the mainland, though have not been able to breach the defenses of the more civilized areas thus far. The raids get more intense with each passing winter as the resource scarcity on their home island grows. (edited)

2

8:05 PM

2

"Well, this looks like quite the planet to explore, let's see if we can get a radio contact first, they may have a landing zone in mind for visitors." Valentina sets the radio to broadcast on all frequencies, hoping that someone might be able to receive. "This is Valentina Spiros, calling the inhabitants of Ibasalo Urt, are you receiving me?"

There is a crackle and buzz as someone tries to key into the frequency but you do not need your comms officer to tell you that the ground station lacks the power to make a clear connection with your ship (edited)

"Ok, well, if they can't make clear contact, let's head towards the population centre to the north of that lake (Graelzea, not that Val knows that yet), and continue to try and raise them. If we can't get in contact by then, we'll land out to the east of the city."

On the way down to the surface you're able to skim some surface tr4ansmissions to get news about the recent attempt by a shadowy group to take the settlement, but nothing from the ground is powerful enough to get a transmission out to your ship, even on the way down to the planet. The signal grows strong and suddenly grows weak, though there's no pattern in the rise and fall.

"Well, if we can't make contact, let's land out to the east of that settlement, and pop in to say hello!'

The ship sets down, and the ramp lowers. The crew is eager to stretch their legs and wander a bit now that they've been aboard for some days now. The temperature is cool, but not freezing, and you hear running water in large volumes, your eyes being drawn to a massive aqueduct spanning from west to east, carrying water from a lake toward the settlement

Valentina looks out over the area, and then sets out towards the city, taking two of the crew with her, and leaving the others to streach their legs outside the ship and then just check over the ship to ensure that everything is shipshape.

(you've got your ATV with you right?)

(Yup, if it's far enough to warrant using it then we would absolutely run it out)

(Yeah its rugged terrain)

7:39 AM

The ATV is offloaded, and you begin making your way up the mountain. Electrical systems begin to drain somewhat as you get close to the pool- not enough to force you to abandon the vehicle, but enough for you to not be able to take this on extended exploration.

(Do any other electrical devices show greater power drain than would be expected, or is it just the ATV?)

(Just the ATV for the moment)

(Ok, are we within walking distance of the town/city now?)

As the ATV gets to within 1 kilometer of town, the battery is not drained, and seems to be holding at 50%, but the vehicle comes to a halt. Up the road, a grav truck filled with what looks like children both in the cab, and in the bed, comes running down the road. You can see they have pulled out of a farm, located a bit deeper into the alpine region here at the shore of a steaming lake

Valentina steps out of the ATV, and waves, "Hello, what are your names then?"

The truck is moving rapidly and pulls up alongside of you before a teenage girl and several other kids in ill fitting soldiers gear step out.

9:53 PM

"I'm Rosa. You are?"

"Val, it's very nice to meet you. Do you think I'd be able to come to your city and talk to your leaders?"

"Well Val, Gal to Gal, you're looking at one of them. The oldest person in town is only 22, and they're stupid so I'm pretty much leader now. We're going on a mission and we could use some help" (edited)

"Huh, well done to you then, rare to find a leader so young, what's your mission then?"

"We're going to the coast to make sure all the ice vikings are gone. Some ships ran aground and we want to make sure the storm killed them all"

"Ok, if you fancy the company, I'll happily come along, and after I'd very much like to explore the city!" (edited)

"Well that's just it, we're going away from the city toward the lighthouse, and the coast. Coastal raiders. Coast. Gotta make sure the sea got all the ones the birds arent eating"

"Ok, to the coast it is, shall we follow your truck?"

"Please. Glad you're coming. Your truck looks pretty beefy, I feel safer already"

7:46 AM

They begin getting back in the grav truck and re-arranging a few small things before the grav plates come back to life and the vehicle gently lifts off

"I'm glad we can help, here's a compad, you can use it to keep in contact me with us when we're on the road, otherwise, we'll see you when we arrive"

(and then just a D10 for anything we might generate on the way)

(7)

You pass baxk west the long way around the lake before entering something of a badlands zone, though it is relatively flat. You’re able to see for miles around aside from a few dead trees and bushes. A lone golden bird rests in one as you pass your eyes over it before taking wing and pulling its long tail into the air. It flaps its wings and flys up and away

Valentina looks out of the window, taking in the view and excited to be on a new planet with all that it may have in store. Seeing the bird, she wonders how it is able to survive in such an arid environment, but as it fly's away, gives it little additional thought. She types a quick message back to the Phobos, giving their coordinates, direction and intended destination. She then heads back into the cargo bay, to ensure all of the drones are correctly located on their wall racking, such that they are able to get into the air upon being activated. She spends some time checking that the other equipment is properly stowed, such that it will not snag a drone in flight. Content that all is well, she will head back to her seat, and await a message from Rosa that they have arrived.

You arrive at a seashore, 4km from a tall lighthouse. The bones of large ocean going beasts wash up here sometimes, along with something entirely different- the hulls of several large raiding boats that have been overturned, thrown on their sides, or otherwise broken on the rocks. Sea birds wheel and caw overhead, and the decomposing bodies of raiders have fallen all over the beach where the tide has washed up the drowned. Others were thrown onto the beach and succumbed to injuries there since they were not given aid. Rosa and her companions dismount their vehicle, all of them carrying a long spear, as well as shorter blades to begin the grim work of scavenging the site and make sure they aren't leaving any foes alive

Valentina hops out, and heads over to Rosa, assisting in the gristly duty, picking over bodies carefully so as not to slip. She notes the ages of the raiders, wondering if everyone on this planet is as young as those that she has met so far. As she does so, she brings an Occultus onto station, maintaining a position 500m above the site, set to alert Val to any movement outside the site.

(notice/wis at +2 with our drone friend)

(9)

A small boat near the shore is gently moving back toward the sea, 500m from your position. Its movements are almost imperceptible, but the drone sees 6 heat signatures inside

"Rosa, we've got a boat near the shoreline heading out to sea, shall we intercept it?"

She frowns. Looking to see where you are pointing. Pairs of booted feet can be seen through cracks in the hull (think like the flintstones vehicles) , gently working the boat toward the water at a glacially slow pace.

1:41 PM

They seem to be trying to sneak it there, before they get into the water and too far away from the shore for your notice to mean anything

(Roughly how far away from the water are they?)

(about 20m or so)

6:36 PM

(They're close)

Valentina directs a pair of Quintus drones to move between the boat and the deeper section of shore, "Stop where you are!" she shouts across the waves, her voice amplified through each of the drones.

The boat continues movingtoward the water, at a faster pace now that they have been discovered and their subterfuge is over

"Atlas, move to the seaward side of that vessel to cut off their retreat" (It has a ghost driver, so I assume it would be able to do that without a pilot onboard?) "Rosa, what's your plan under these circumstances normally?"

(yeah it could)

12:38 PM

"Not sure, didn't expect them to do this. We need to make sure they don't get back to their lands though, more will come"

12:38 PM

"If we can't capture them we're going to have to shoot"

"Ok, taking them captive sounds good to me." "Atlas, herd them back towards the shoreline please." Meanwhile, one of the Quintus drones fires off a warning shot in front of them. As Val leans back a bit, wondering how they will react. (edited)

The Atlas begins moving to block them, and the warning shots see them quicken their pace across the beach into the water.

Val levels her shear rifle taking careful aim at the boat, trying to blow a hole in it, and squeezes the trigger. (19/17)

(Just the boat? not trying to over-penetrate and hit anyone inside?)

(If possible, just the boat, they can't exactly row away without a boat!)

(Makes sense!) There is a large segment of timbers torn away by the shear field and it forces the would-be escaping vikings to drop their handholds inside, and flee out the bottom, up the beach

7:27 AM

(10m from you, they're just moving, not running super far)

"Ok, let's give chase and capture them, alive if possible please," Valentina starts to run after them and directs the drone and Atlas to do similarly

(Your move can catch the closest one, and it would be opposed exert/str to try to grapple them down)

(Are they currently armed at all?)

(sheathed swords and a few handguns, but nobody has anything in hand since they were lifting the boat)

(Ok, let's give this a go! 5 for Str/Exert)

1

(9) the trailing viking easily shrugs off the grapel attempt. Rosa has managed to bring one down, and her children companions are using their five against one combined weight to bring down another. Three are continuing to flee

(4) Val continues to give chase and attempt to tackle one of the Vikings, entirely ineffectively! However is very impressed with the research currently going on into the eternal question of, "How many children does it take to pin down a Viking!" (edited)

It takes six apparently, as the other three now have 30m of distance between you and those on the beach. It's clear they're likely going to escape at this point

"Fire" As Val levels her rifle at those trying to escape, and the drones target the other two. (16/18, 25/9, 28/12)

A hail of gunfire drops the other three, neatly finishing off what their wounds from the ship's grounding, storm, and prior escape attempts had started

"I'm sorry you had to see that Rosa, it was far messier that I might have liked, regardless, you now also have three to interrogate, which can be no bad thing. Do you know where the raids come from?"

"Across the sea. You came down in a ship, you saw their island I'm sure. Probably closer than any of us ever have"

"Ah yes, I believe we did spot an island on our map, do they raid often?"

"Every season since the disaster a few years ago, but every year there are more of them, and they come with bigger ships"

"Hmm, a growing problem then, well, shall we head back to the city, I would be extremely curious to have a look around"

"give me half an hour to talk with these fine people first, and once we're done with that I'll be happy to escort you into town. "

"Superb, take your time"

There is some conversation, out of earshot from you, and it goes on for about fifteen minutes back and forth. The raiders are put on their knees and shot right after, leaving a blood speckled Rosa and company to return to their vehicle, indicating with a wave you should follow on

11:20 AM

(3xp, 5000 credits)

(Superb, then probably skip until we arrive back at the city?)

(We can do that, i didnt have anything else on the road)

1:28 PM

The batteries in the vehicle once again begin dimming as you approach the settlement nestled at the base of the mountains. the hot springs outside it are tempered by the cold water coming in via aqueduct, and the mixture of the two together makes a temperate place to bathe. Indeed you see many of the residents of the town- again mostly children-doing exactly that

(Out of interest, what is their vehicle powered by?)

(Fossil fuel)

"So, Rosa, can I ask, is there a reason why everyone who lives here is so young?"

"Disaster a few years ago killed most of the adults. Not sure why more of them got killed than us, but they did. No choice really, just had to learn to do things and move on'

"Hmm, that's unfortunate, although it sounds like it was linked to an event that happened across the sector, called the scream. Regardless, that's one for the scholars. Can I ask a little more about how your government is structured?"

"If you can color inside the lines you're generally put in charge of something. Some of the older kids still struggle with that" Rosa says, as the vehicles finish powering down inside the town square.

"Needs must I suppose, is anyone actually in charge though?"

"Me. I was the only one brave enough to explore the lighthouse when our ltitle town here was ust getting started

4:12 PM

"When I came back, nobody challenged me when I started making decisions, and it just sort of worked out from there"

"That makes sense I suppose, I've an offer I'd like to make. There are a group of planets who are forming into an alliance called the Elysium Protectorate, to sector south of here, the union supports trade and mutual defence, and I think we could help to stabilise the situation here, if you wished to join us. How does that sound?"

"Don't think minors are allowed to sign a deal like that. Not to mention we're not good for anything until those idiots across the ocean are taken care of. I should go ask the old man in the castle, See what he thinks of all this"

"I'll be honest, I'm not sure where minors stand, as for the pirates, we had a pirate problem some months ago, so have developed some strong tactics to deal with that sort of issue, but I'd be pleased to meet this old man, would you show me to him?"

"He's a little...odd. Better I go myself and he hears everything from me first, then he'll eithe rreturn with me, or we can go back up to his castle together. Maybe you could look into the pirate issue, or investigate the boneyard to the southwest if you're looking for somthing to do"

"Ok, sounds like a plan. The boneyard? What might that be?"

"Great and powerful beasts live and die there. They never seem to leave, but the bones are rumored to have properties of some kind, the psychics and the old man are interested in them

"It certainly sounds fascinating, but I think I will visit the pirates in person, you never know, they may be willing to come to the negotiating table."

"See what you can do for them. If they're given supplies they'd have no need to try to take ours or fight for more"

"Yep, a peaceful resolution would definitely be preferable, I'll see you in a day or two once we get back!" Val heads back to the Phobos, loads up the Atlas, and plots a route over to the raiders island.

There are three large settlements with more boats on the coast, all of them seem like theyre in various states of construction as the winter ice is melting away fro another prosperous raiding spring

(What season are we currently on this planet?)

(About to be spring)

(Ok) "Let's land somewhere around the larger of the three settlements and see if anyone who is home is willing to have a chat" (edited)

(That would make it the middle one, if you're ok with thaT)

(Yep, sounds good to me!)

The settlement is large, walled, and made mostly of wood and whatever thatch or scrap material could be found for roofing. Hundreds of people live here, and there are six boats in various stages of construction on the beach where most of the settlement's activity seems to be focused. There is an ecclectic mix of spears, guns, and other primitive weapons among the warriors here, seen from your circling approach to the settlement. work stops as the starship gets close

"Well, at least they aren't heavily armed, the beach is probably the most open area to set down, but let's make sure we're off to one side, so as not to present too much of a perceived threat to their construction efforts."

The ship sets down 50m from the beach construction zone to a gathering crowd of the locals

8:00 AM

Most of them are likewise armed, and waiting to see what comes of this

Valentina waits at the top of the cargo ramp for it to swing open, then, wanders forward to the bottom of the ramp. "Good afternoon, my name is Valentina, I only recently arrived on this planet, and as such have been going around speaking to some of its people, if you'd allow me to, I would like to speak with you, and your leaders."

"Anything you have to say you can say to the village." one of them calls out from the mob. He is one of the larger of the warriors, possibly in charge, but it remains unclear

"Very well, it would be my pleasure. When I was on the mainland, I saw a raid that had attempted to attack one of the settlements there, and was lead to believe that it had originated at this island, and the raids were occurring due to dwindling resources. One of the roles that the organisations I represent have been undertaking, is one of peacemakers, where there are few resources, we can help with bringing in shipments and getting civilizations back on their feet after the disaster of a few years ago, so I wondered if you could tell me a little of your civilization here, and if there is any assistance we could render?"

"The assistance makes us reliant on you, instead of raiding the mainland for what we need. It does not sound like you're freeing us, just making us depend on someone else to survive"

"Would I be correct that the land here is not fertile enough to allow you to grow crops or rear animals? How many of you are happy here, squeezing out an existence from raiding and stealing from others? If there were an option to go and live elsewhere peacefully, how many of you would take it?"

Many of them seem like they would, and there are some clear factions developing among the crowd between those who adhere to the traditions, and people who are tired of the scarcity

"I think best if I give you all some time to think this over, but my offer is as follows; I will happily take any who wish to go, to another planet, it has currently got a small expeditionary force, but in time we hope for that to grow. You would assist with the work that takes place there, there is much building work to be done for instance. You will also be able to receive training if you wish, and once the colony is fully established then people will begin to come and go freely, so if another place takes your fancy, you could start lives elsewhere. We hope to broaden your future, not limit it, and a happy, well fed, and well educated population is a wonderful thing. I will return next month to here your answer, whatever it may be, any questions?"

None of them are willing to voice any issues rigt now in sight of the rest of the village as it would mark them out as untrustworthy.

Val steps back aboard the ship, and gives an instruction to take off and return to the mainland to go and find Rosa.

Your journey has taken hours by air, where hers will take several days round trip by ground, and she is currently only a short distance from the settlement, as you're able to travel much faster than her

(OK, in which case, a detour to Hergudr might be in order?)

(we can do that, sure. You're just traveling at a much greater magnitude than her, so its gonna be some time)

(Yep, that makes sense, I'll probably give it a week or so before popping back then! 8 days out to Hergudr?)

(works for me!)

(Armoured Undersuit (Mastercrafted) (11/14 Days))

Invasive Biosphere Thin Atmosphere, Breathable with Mask Hundreds of Thousands of Inhabitants TL 3 The Hergudr system contains two planets in the habitable zone, each of them with relatively the same climate. Only Hergudr has a moon that is barren, the victim of constant meteor strikes. Both planets have a few small settlements on their surface. A gas giant and sun round out the system.

(What does it mean by an Invasive Biosphere?)

(there is some component in the atmosphere either corrosive, viral, or otherwise bad for you to breathe in that requires a sealed environment, and in some cases might actually try to override, eat through, or otherwise bypass said seals)

7:15 PM

(The Stain on Polychrome is one example, the corrosive atmosphere of Musheera is another good one)

(Is that true of both planets, and is the population spread across both, or just on one?) (edited)

(both planets)

(Ok) "Let's head for that planet with the moon, we'll do a pass over to get an idea of it's layout, and see if we can select a good place to land, also, if anyone else is coming on planet, grab a vac suit, scans report we might need them" In the meantime, Val heads down to the hold to make sure her suit mech, the Aegis, is fully operational, all filters cleaned and seals checked.

(I’ll get a drawing together for the planets. I scrapped the one I had going because I wasn’t happy with it)

(Ok, sounds good)

Valentina looks over the scans of the planet's surface, noting the five settlements appear to be of roughly equal size, and therefore inclines the ship's approach towards the most central one, situated on the coastline. As the ship nears the planet, she starts to broadcasts a hail, announcing the ship's presence, and asking if anyone is recieving them.

Valentenia! This is Chris Fury, I am starting a tour of the Sectors and would like to take up the Aphroditan Guild - Cultural Investigation Grant and provide you with detailed reports of cultural sites. We are starting on Gudrun and then heading to Terezinho.

Hi Chris,
That sounds like a wonderful endeavour, I would be happy for you to take up the grant, and look forward to receiving your reports on novel cultural sites! If your tour brings you over to the Western edge of the sector, please let me know, it would be a pleasure to see you perform!

Sincerely,
Val

11:36 AM

@Chris Fury (Desmond)

Great! Which Western Planet would be best to visit first and do you have any cultural places you think I should see out there?

@Chris Fury (Desmond)

Hi Chris,
It would be lovely if you were to visit Heras, given the constitution has recently been ratified, and we are enjoying a period of prosperity, so I think people would love an opportunity to relax, and enjoy something of the good times, if that would be of interest to you?

As for cultural sites, Astyoche has some fascinating locations to investigate, and I would thoroughly recommend a visit.

Sincerely,
Val

Okay! Heras will be next after Terezinho!

There is no signal from the ground, and no transmissions heading up into space to try to get your attention

"Ok, nothing from the ground, so lets set down near that central settlement, and see if there's anyone around!"

The inhabitants are focused on constantly beating back the invasive jungles around their settlements as the plants can grow dozens of meters per day if not properly culled. Burn teams are common, staffed by colonists as young as 12 for the most basic of jobs. Ruins choked out by the invasive jungle dot the surface, places where the colonists lost their war against nature, their bones now homes for animals and food for scavengers.

(Is there enough space nearby or within the settlement for the Phobos to land?)

(not really no, nto without getting into the burn teams way)

Noting the lack of an area to land, Valentina instructs Isabelle to put the Phobos into a holding pattern above the settlement. She then heads down to the hold, dons the Aegis. She opens the rear cargo ramp, and as the Phobos passes near the settlement, she swan dives down towards the ground, engaging the Antigrav Nodes just in time to slow her descent, and touch down gently towards one side of the settlement.

The burn team is startled back by the mechanized suit landing in their midst. Work continues in other parts of the settlement to keep the ever growing tide of choking vegetation back

"Good afternoon, I'm Valentina, a representative of the Elysium Protectorate, can I be of some assistance?"

A team of children run by with a wagon full of flamethrower cannisters, heading to a burn team across the settlement from here. Pumps and gas wells burn off excess pressure with timed ignitions before they're quickly snuffed out, and a burn scarred, burly man in a vulcanized apron and gloves makes his way over to you. "Assistance? with this? pah, not unless you've got another 100 bodies with flame units you can give us forever"

"Not this instance, but that could definitely be organised! Have you got someone coordinating your efforts who I could speak to?"

"You're looking at him. Everyone here knows how to make a square thankfully, so as long as we keep the village borders clear we can all get some rest tonight. The jungle here grows like nothing I've ever seen before"

"Well, pleased to meet you then, I presume you're busy for now, but if you'd be happy to talk with me when you have time later, that would be much appreciated."

"There's never time. Say what you came to say so I can keep my teams running"

"Fair enough, I come from a planet sector north east from here, we are reaching out to our neighbors, and inviting them to join our little coalition of planets, where planets are struggling, we can offer aid, where they are prosperous, we can open opportunities to make them more so. If you would like, we can get people and machinery out here in a week or so to push back the forest, and give you some breathing room?"

"We'd do with the machinery, sure. I wouldnt take kindly to packs of outsiders walking around the town with power tools and weapons"

"Ok, we can quite happily give you some additional kit, we'll set up a base elsewhere on the planet, so as not to encroach on your village. Thank you for your time!"

He begins ordering his burn teams to change positions, and for water to be brought to the exhausted flamethrower men, each of them is soot streaked and sweating heavily

Valentina lifts off again, and heads back to the ship. She pauses for a moment, considering her options, then directs the ship to head northwest, towards the area of coastline, where the forest does not appear to reach the water's edge.

The coastline shows evidence of recently being burned through some natural forest fire, rather than deliberate action by human settlers. There is already strong evidence that the ground is already beginning to regrow

Hmm, let's see what you are then. Valentina instructs the Phobos to remain at altitude, and hops off in the Aegis, equipped with a bioscanner and specimen jar to go and investigate. Upon reaching a fairly clear area of the ground, she pulls out the bioscanner first and begins to scan the plant life around her, to try and work out what might be causing the plants to grow so rapidly!

(survive/wis , since this is unknown flora and we're trying to determine what might be causing the growth)

(5

)

You obtain a few samples, though you can only guess at their possible potency

Val makes sure the samples are secure, and can't start growing out of their containers or anything like that. The Phobos leaves the planet's atmosphere, and then heads across the short distance across the system to the second planet in the habitable zone.

The situation is the same there with no real exceptions that you can see. The topography is a bit different here , but the inhabitants struggle against the surrounding jungle is no less important

"Ok, let's head north to Ankuiq, there's no reason for us to sit here while the Rhodos ships the supplies over to Hergudr."

Equiptment Manefest for Rhodos Delivery to Hergudr:

3x Close Air Support Aircraft w/Incendiary Payloads

10x Magma Grenades - 3k Credits

100x Flamethrowers and Tanks - Unknown cost (Flame Cannons are 10k  each in Engines of Babylon, but I can't find Flamethrowers?)

1x Mech Portable Plasma Scythe (If that exists?) 15k Credits

(edited)

(Flame cannon is all that there is I think. As far as 'tanks' , are these fuel tanks for the flame weapons or like an actual battle tank chassis)

(Fuel tanks for the flame weapons)

(I didn't see anything for them as handheld weapons in any of the books)

(Neither did I, what were the colonists on Hergudr using?)

(Theyre using flamethrowers, i have homebrew stats for them from an old community made spreadsheet)

11:54 AM

(they cost 550 credits)

(Ah, ok, could I grab 200 please, which would be 110k credits. Would it be possible for a suit mech to wield a Flame Cannon or Plasma Scythe, or are they too big and unwieldy for that?)

(A suit mech cannot mount vehicle weapons generally, just hand weapons or man portable heavy weapons, both of those are explicitly vehicle weapons)

(Ok, not a problem, just thought it worth asking! Shall we hop forward to Ankuiq while that gets shipped over?)

(Alright so you're having this built on Heras, do you have a ship that can ship it over?)

(The Rhodos will be around as long as it can do this trip between for trades, and the Elysium of Thojhild is also going to make the trip over at the same time)

12:44 PM

(Three aircraft are 150T so as long as the handheld gear doesn't exceed 50T it will all fit on the Rhodos)

(if your ship is far trading it is far trading for the whole month)

1:41 PM

(its either available for other work at the expense of trading, or its trading)

1:41 PM

(So all we have is EoT)

(Ah, ok, I've made a logistical cock up this month then, my apologies. Can I cancel the far trades for route 2, which was the route the Phobos was running. Then I can take the Phobos back to Heras, and we can go from there?) (edited)

(that's fine, we can do that)

(Great! Four days back to Heras? Mastercrafted Armoured Undersuit 14/14 Exoskeleton Mod 1/3.5 Days) Upon returning to Heras, Val immediately dispatches the Elysium Of Thojhild to the Hergudr System, and asking that it waits in orbit, and sends a message should the situation on the surface change, or any other relevant details. She then asks that two of the Guild's Close Air Support Aircraft are taken off duty, and packed into the hold and ready for transport, along with a procurement of 200 flamethrowers, for pushing back the encroaching forest, as well as 10 Magma Grenades, 'Just in case.' While the Phobos is being loaded, Val takes a while to walk around the city, spotting the rise of the Aphroditan Guild shipyard off in the distance, before heading to the Guild Headquarters to write up a recruitment document.

The Aphroditan Guild is seeking elite troops to help secure it's offworld holdings; think you've got what it takes? Apply today!

(This is mostly laying the foundations for starting a small mercenary company to protect Guild assets, I was reading that a private merc company can recruite 0.01% of a planets population normally, but I don't know if Heras is different from the norm?)

(its the norm)

(According to the EP BP tab on tho ship registery, Heras has a population of 22,550,000. So 2255 could be recruited, presumably over a period of time, assuming the contract cost is also normal, at 4000 Credits, the overall cost is 9,020,000 Credits?)

(Okay so you want to make an actual merc legion. I'd recommend getting a ship that can actually transport that many people before doing anything, otherwise they're just sitting around on Heras)

(Yep that suits me, it was more a laying the groundwork thing as I presume 2255 people don't show up overnight ordinarily, the Hymenaeon which comes off the line at the start of Y4M6 can carry 3000, so that will likely go between doing trade one month and moving people around as needed! Have the Heras pirates started raiding again this year?) (edited)

(Nope I’ll let you know when something happens. You’re blockading their base right now so them leaving is a good way to get killed) (edited)

(In which case, could I head back to Hergudr for some more fun and games there?)

(You could arrive with your supply shipment to take part in some clearing adventures/ect there)

9:38 AM

(actual rogue trader stuff)

(Yup, that sounds good to me, I'm also starting to wonder about why the plants behave as they do. So I could I leave the lab team with a sample to analyse, just in case there's more to this than it first seems?)

(they can work on it certainly)

(Ok, great, let's go clear some forest and try not to get eaten by plant life!)

(I added it as a project to the research center handout)

(Oh very nice, I didn't realize it could be a full scale project, but I suppose a modified version could really help to feed the world! 4 days back to Hergudr Exoskeleton 4/4 Infinite Power 1/12) (edited)

(the days are rounded up for mods generally)

(Ok, does that look better?)

(yes thank you)

Returining to Hergurdr with a supply ship full of tools to help the natives, the land below looks the same as ever. Smoke rises from around the settlements as burn teams are ever hard at work trying to keep the jungle away from those few places where humanity has been able to hang on.

Val directs the ship down to the settlement they visited the first time. As they fly in through the atmosphere, she looks out of the window and sees an area of particularly dense forest on the North-East of the map, and resolves to go and take a look in case that is the epicentre of this growth. As they land, Val meets with the leader she met the first time, and offers them 40 of the flamers that they have brought with them. (edited)

“I’m grateful for the help , these are better than what we have now and they should work with the fuel mix we use. I’ll start handing them out to some of our more elite teams. If you end up getting more it would be good to fit the rest of our people with them and have some in reserve just in case “

"I'm glad to hear that it's of help, and when we have another transport over here, we'll bring some more kit out to you! How many more would be useful for you?"

"Double what you brought, and we're not sure how much more fuel we have in the wells here either. Those pockets are going to run dry eventually. Finding more is a perpetual issue'

"Ok, we'll see what can be done! In the meantime, I'm going to explore a little more of this delightful planet!" And with that, Val heads off, and boards the Phobos once again. Once aboard, she gives instruction to the Air Support Aircraft to launch, and place themselves into orbit, where they can sit until needed. Val grabs a spare flamer, makes sure the Magma Grenades are on her Mech suit's belt, and jumps out of the back of the Phobos, heading towards the particularly dense forest on the northeast edge.

The forest is an incredibly dense patch of ground and there isn;t a clear place to land as your mech suit flies above the treetops. Everywhere you go you can see branches slowly getting longer, leafing out, budding, dying, and then new growth taking over the old in and endless regenerating thicket, over and over again.

She gently leans back on the power, coming into a hover, levels the flamer down at the forest's canopy, and releases the flame, seeing if it even makes a dent.

The leaves curl and wither and you’re able to make a small hole as the flames and burning jelly cling to the foliage , there is no indication how long the hole will last

Assuming that didn't take an inordinate amount of fuel, Val hops down into the hole, and looks for how dense the foliage is below the canopy

It is a wall of brown and green no matter which way you turn. You're also standing on about a meter of old, dead growth keeping you off the true soil layer. Protected from the fire a bit mroe down here, vines and small creepers already begin to gently trail along your boots and ankles. It's not enough to keep you pinned down here with the assistance of your mech's thrusters but you could end up in that situation quickly if you linger.

Val lifts back off, hovering above the canopy and watching the forest regrow, trying to determine how quickly it does so.

It takes about a half hour for the entire forest to regrow to about where it was before you had burned a hole

Suspecting that she isn't likely to make much progress here alone, with how quickly the alien flora is regrowing, Val decides to see if it is possible to clear an entire island. As she flies over to the island, she swoops low over the mountain region, to check if the plants continue to grow at altitude?

The plants stop growing around the point where the snow begins to set in, preventing further growth past a few thousand meters of elevation

Val swoops off, and heads to the settlement on the island, wondering if they were able to fully clear the island, whether the plants would be able to regrow there without being reintroduced from another landmass.

The island is heavily mountainous and on your approach its clear that the trees are thin because the land is high, not becausethe villagers here are especially capable of clearing. The settlement is small, and scattered among a few wide cliffs

Val lands near to the settlement, looking for it's inhabitants

They’ve come out as much as they can on the peaks to see the ship come in. There isn’t much room for it to set down, but they emerge none the less

"Greetings, I'm Valentina, a visitor from Heras, to sector North East of here, I'm currently traveling around the planet, talking to it's people and seeing what they need, and extending an offer of friendship, should it be wanted."

"Well you've come to a shitty place if you're looking for friends, you've seen the planet you just landed on , right?"

"I have indeed, from those I've met already, it's a tough life for those that live here, how was it that you came to be in this situation?" (edited)

“Colonists , and the relief ships never came with the supplies and tailored pesticides we needed to keep the jungle more manageable

"Ok, well, if you'd be willing for us to support you as we would one of our colonies, that would suit us. As for tackling the jungle, do you know anything of how it spreads, and how it does so quickly? Also, does it have spores that are carried on the air at all, or does it reproduce purely through growing out runners?

“Spores would have it growing in the village too, so just runners I would think. We just met. I’m not sure it makes good sense to just pledge service to someone who’s been in the village for five minutes. We don’t know anything about you”

"Ok, that's good to know, and I'm sure it isn't good sense, but I find it expedites everything if I am forward with options that I provide to others. Being on an island lends a certain benefit to an experiment that I would like to perform, assuming these plants spread purely by runners, eradicating it entirely from an island would seem pertainant. With you and your peoples permission, I would like to try and erradicte it here by burning all of the areas where it grows with Incendiary ordinance, would that be agreeable?"

“You’re going to be dropping incendiaries on our island? What guarantee do we have that you won’t drop them on our village too? Can you guarantee they’re safe?”

"Well, this is why I'd like your advice, the plan was to drop the incendiaries around the edge of the island, away from the village and the mountains, then we have teams with flamers, myself amongst them, who can push back from the other side, as long as we can create a large enough gap between the jungle and the village before we start, I think all should be well, but I'd like your input before we start."

“If you’re planning on meeting in the middle we should be able to control the blaze. We are still talking about a few hundred kilometers of land here once you come down from the mountains. I doubt we have the fuel for all that”

"Ok, say getting enough fuel was possible, how much would we need do you think, and do we have enough people, if we have the fuel and another 80 flamers?"

“At least 10,000 tons to entirely clear the island , and that’s assuming nothing comes back and we don’t miss any tendrils”

"Ok, do you think you'll be able to hold out for another six weeks, it'll probably take that long to get that volume of fuel together, but we can give you another 40 flamers to try and help you along?" (edited)

"We've held out for four years, six weeks shouldn't be much different"

9:00 PM

(they'll actually be getting a trade report next month as well)

"Ok, that's good to hear, we'll leave you another 40 flamers now anyway, and hopefully they can be of help for a while." (Ok, that's great! I think that completes the Guild's wealth endeavour, as that will be the second trade report, I have level 3 HQs on Thorgunna and Radji, and I've built a production centre on Chloe.)

(Yep Yep, check your faction channel shortly, just doing the paperwork)

(Wonderful!)

They thank you for the help, and will do what they can to refine them and the mix, as it may react differently at the altitude

Val would head to each of the other settlements on this planet and offer them a set of flamers each, and give them the general info/sales pitch on EP, before heading back to Ibalaso Urt! (If you're happy to skip on a little, 8 days in spike, Infinite Power 9/12)

(that's fine, sounds like we're headed out)

(Yep, assuming nothing out of the ordinary, Rosa should have got back, so I'd like to speak to her again!)

Rosa has returned, her truck and the people she had taken with her settled in after being on the road for some time.

"Hey Rosa, how've you been, you said planned to go and speak to the 'Old Man?' did you find him?"

"I did. We were discussing the boneyard and state of the world at great length"

"I'm glad to hear that, I'd be curious to know any conclusion you reached, especially with regard to my proposal. I should probably also mention that I spoke to the raiders, I offered to take them to another world, a fresh start where they wouldn't conflict with you, so hopefully in time they will no longer be an issue for you." (edited)

(Can you refresh me on what the proposal was? its been a few weeks and we have hopped around a lot)

(Sure, it was an offer for them to join the Protectorate, with the benefits that are offered in the constitution for being a member, I also said I'd take a look at their raiders problem, and Rosa said that she wanted to speak to the old man, to get his input on the idea in general)

"Ah, Well, it sounds good in practice but if we join you, there's no guarantee you're actually going to take care of the raider problem. Or do much of anything else aside from take our taxes. He looked into the future and saw that in store for us. We're going to say no until they're gone or handled"

"Very well, it will take us a little while to deal with the raiders, but we will return once we have done so"

7:48 AM

Val leaves, and heads over to the raiders island to see what they've concluded

The raiders who were initially interested seem to be reluctant to do so now, and you sense there is an undercurrent of some kind of societal pressure here.

"Do some of you perhaps have reservations, if so, I'd be interested to hear them, perhaps we can help allay your fears."

(talk/cha)

(8)

The community is split. Many here feel that this landmass is their home, and they have an attachment to the ocean, and the rough country they live in. Those who do want to leave feel like they will be abandoning the community to its fate if they do leave

"My concern for you is this, the people on the land are well established, as I'm sure you know, they've been combating your raids, and they told me that they're stepping up their efforts. I would like to see this come to a conclusion without further bloodshed, how long do you think you'll be able to hold on for alone on this rock?"

It seems like the wolves among them are set to come out. The next logical step if the mainland stops being a viable target is for them to turn on other settlements on this island, and this seems like just an accepted way of things for them

"Well, if you have made your choice, that is up to you, I will return once in a while if any of you change your mind, I really think it would be better for you all to get a fresh start on a nice warm world, but then again, what do I know." She turns, and walks slowly back onto the ship, giving any of the villagers who wish to speak, time to do so."

The society pressure against speaking and abandoning the village known, and with no steps offered by EP or AGET around it, the natives hold their tongues.

(Ok, that makes, sense, I'll have a think over it and see if I can come up with a solution, would I be able to have an explore around the Zone of Bone and see what that has in store?)

(We can do that, sure)

10:02 AM

Heading southwest to the zone , you see kilometers of massive bones, and dark shapes burrowing within them from above. They are giant, massive creatures have all gathered and fallen here- all from different genotypes

Val hops out of the ship to fly by and get a closer look at the creatures and the bones, running iover them with a survey scanner and bioscanner to get an idea of the age of the bones and what these creatures might be.

None of the bones match any database of living creatures.

Val touches down onto the sandy ground and wanders about a little, shear rife drawn and drones in the air taking a closer look at the bones

(are you in the Aegis still?)

1:21 PM

(trying to figure out what you can see )

(Yup, they'll also be an Occultus floating around which has an observation suit if that is useful?)

(Notice/wis at +4 between polyspectral and some aerial view)

(My notes don't have Polyspectral Sensors on the Aegis, so i guess just a +2?)

1:35 PM

(I've apparently got my nose in the dirt anyway, Snake Eyes rolled, so either 4 or 6 depending on the mod)

(got a re-roll token?)

(Nope, sadly not)

The bones here don't seem like they resemble anything you're familiar with, even down here to take in more of the micro level details. The shadows stir among the bones, and you get half glimpses of hunched, reclusive creatures who dart between the piles. There are faint shrieks in the air, though any time you hear one it sounds almost like the cry of a small game animal getting silenced by a larger predator

1:45 PM

though you've seen no animals here

Valentina takes steps towards the noises off in the shadows, trying to glimpse what the small creatures might be

You hear a cry cut short a few meters from you, and though the creature is not glimpsed aside from its black, jagged back upon running away, you see black particles scattering into the wind from its kill -though no body.

Hmm, that's a little strange, usually death leads to bodies (Would I have any idea IC what might die without a body being left, because I have an idea OOC, but don't want to metagame)

(Dont think val has had much exposure to psychics or space magickery over the course of her character, but the natives said the area was haunted)

(Yep, I'm not sure she has either, I think she'll probably assume ghosts!)

2:37 PM

Well, the spirits of the dead, left behind by these ancient beasts, I wonder if they leave behind anything of use to the living?

The ashen piles left behind after a kill seem to evaporate quickly in open air, carried away by the breeze and otherwise melting like snow in the sunlight

(Sorry, I phrased that poorly for what I was trying to achieve, I was more looking for whether the physical remains could be of use to the settlers here, bones for fertiliser and that sort of thing?)

The bones could be used for those purposes if processed correctly, beyond any capabilities you have here now

Val wanders amongst the bones, trying to take 3d scans of different bones, to try and reconstruct the skeletons of different creatures, to find out what they may originally have looked like

(i think that sort of advanced xenobiology modeling is beyond what you have on your person and the capabilities of your ship)

(OK, I'll just grab the scans, then I can send it to interested Xenobiologists later if the chance ever arises) Seeing that there is little more that she can do here, Val heads back to Graelzea to inform Rosa of the Vikings decision to stay on the island, and she offers to direct naval support here if that is desirable to them.

"Not sure wht we can do besides keep fending them off, or wipe them out if they won't leavE"

"That's what I think we can offer for now, to help you fend them off, I don't think wiping them out is a good idea, it sets a precedent that shows it to be an option to solve your problems, and all of a sudden, genocide is on the table. Personally, I'd prefer to avoid that."

"Any way you can help us do that more effectively then, You'd have our continued appreciation"

"Very well, we'll keep in touch and let us know if you find anything else you're in need of support with!" Val spends a day or two relaxing on Ibalso Urt, getting to know the people a little better. She also looks over star charts to see where she's headed next.

(Sounds good. When you know we will go)

(Up to Metanor would be nice I think!)

(alright, 1 day of downtime)

(Infinite Power 10/12)

(Didnt forget about you)

(I didn't guess that you had, it's been a busy few days on the server, and drawing up planets takes time, so all well!)

Metanor is a system with a green sun, a large asteroid field, and a single planet within the habitable zone. It is a feral world where hundreds of thousands, if not more, fallen peoples work hard on a great structure in the center of the planet. This must be the work of several generations already, and it is not anywhere close to complete. It is equally mysterious what this great building might be, there are no tell-tale signs. The inhabitants are also not human, but seem humanoid.

"A green sun, that really is unusual! Let's swing the Phobos around for a closer look there first! You never know, it might give us some insight into the people? living on the planet below." The Phobos closes on the sun, scanning for a reason as to why it's is emenating that particular green glow.

(that is a good question, i will figure that out!, I just really like green)

There seems to be no reason other than the mysteries of stellar creation for why the sun here is green. Perhaps the unseen hand that positioned such things after the Big Bang simply liked the color

(This is possibly the finest justification I've ever heard, love it!) "A stellar curiosity, well, one for the philosophers of the sector, let's mark it and head over to the inhabitable planet and see what the locals are up to!"

12:10 PM

The Phobos forms into an orbit around Metanor, scanning for signals and locations of interest.

(I actually didnt know there was no such thing as green suns until eish looked it up for real and there arent any)

(something something physics, visible light, waves, etc. Yeah no green stars) (edited)

(Makes sense, I still really enjoy the hand of god, as I say, we can point philosophers at it for years to come when they ask for evidence of a god!)

There are no signals because the aliens here are primitive. Aside from hundreds of small villages hosting little more than a clan or few families working together- the only site of note in the massive structure near the center of the planet

"Ok, well, I'd like to try and observe this site a little before we go wading in, let's keep the Phobos in orbit, and I'll go down to take a look." Valentina suits up in the Aegis, preps the drones and stows them into the Aegis' cargo space, before diving off the Phobos' cargo bay door and landing in an uninhabited area, preparing to head in on foot. Upon reaching the ground, Val launches an Occultus drone to be her eye in the sky, and sets off towards the structure.

Hundreds if not low thousands of natives are working hard to pile up perfectly cut stone blocks at places they seem to think they belong. Given the scale the building it still in the early stages of work and there is not anything resembling ornamentation, statuary or other external clues as to its use

(What do the natives look like? Are they human?)

From this great distance you can see they are humanoid, but not human- most of the fine details do not resolve well on your long range scanning

Valentina tried to stay low, moving between cover as much as possible, moves towards the structure, trying to get a better look at the people working on it.

(just without the gun)

3

8:51 AM

The creatures are tall, about six feet tall, and 250 pounds. They have four independent eyes, and seem to be more than capable of handling the harsh work taking place here

(Are any of them armed?)

they do not sport any outwardly visible weaponry but have sharp teeth and are heavily muscular- and may not need anything more

Well, I think that's a new species, I've certainly never seen anything like that before Val bides her time, sitting and observing for a while, seeing how they seem to treat one and other, and whether they seem to use a spoken language of any kind.

The weaker ones are routinely hit, smacked, and physically cajoled to work harder, but the biggest work just as hard- though with less supervision or harassment. The absolute larges of the group does little, content to supervise and watch.

Ok, well, what's the worst that could happen if we go and say hello! Assuming the atmosphere is breathable, Val drops her helmet, allows it to fold back into the mech's chassis so as to look relatively unthreataning and prepares herself to say hello to the natives. She stands up tall, and starts to walk towards the nearest group.

1

Approaching to 100m of them, the first of the laborers sees you, crouching back on hind legs , and roaring its jagged teeth roar. Others begin to turn and face you, eyes glowing and glaring at you

"Good afternoon, do any of you happen to speak English?'

There is a bestial howl, as the creatures begin surging forward, bounding after Val and the fresh meat that has dropped into their midst (edited)

"So I presume that's a no then!!!" She says, with momentary panic, firing the thrusters on the Aegis to lift her high into the air, away from the charging creatures.

Several of them misjudge the distance by an incredible margin, and leap at you, only to predictably miss and tumble into the dirt- before scrapping with one another out of frustration

Ok, so we can chalk this particular group up on the, 'not entirely friendly' list. I wonder whether the smaller tribes are the same? Val sets the suit onto coordinates for one of the smaller encampments, choosing one a good distance away from the structure, landing a short distance away again to observe it's people.

They are engaged in the activities you'd expect the natives to be doing on a low tech world like this, several of the males are engaged in some kind of wrestling or competition of strength

This far out they do not seem to have detected you, but the wind is also in your favor for the moment.

Valentina heads in closer, looking to see if they are the same species as the ones at the structure and whether their behaviour is much the same

They’re the same species and their wresting and fighting marks them as just as highly aggressive as the others

Well, were certainly not making any new friends here, but no reason to fight them either! Val heads back up to the Phobos, and if there's one available, then she'll drop a message buoy stating that the inhabitants of the planet are hostile, and anyone who heads down there should be wary.

4:37 AM

She then plots her route onwards to Tece! (1 day spike, Infinite Power 11/12)

(yea you can drop one. I'll update the WA to reflect that one is in orbit)

(Perfect, thanks!)

(this one is going to need a pilot/int for the jump, not because of you leaving the previous system, but conditions when you jump into this one)

(Ok, let's see how this goes!)

10:05 AM

(8)

The system of Tece is dominated by a massive dark world and a luminous but barren moon. Tece is not a true night world , the sun only shines on it for between three and five hours a day. The world is bathed in neon glow, spotlights and the ever percussive beat of club techno music. Crime and rumors of strange things that haunt the night are as abundant as bodies found when the brief sunlight rays bathe the street

"Well, that's looks an aweful lot like a party! Let's try to hail the planet, and see whether they're able to communicate with us"

There is no response from the ground

"Ok then, a little odd, let's get established in orbit and then I'll fly down to the ground to take a look." Val heads down to the cargo bay, checking the Aegis is prepped and ready to go, and heads down to the planet's surface when they arrive

(Alright, I'll have to draw something up)

Val heads down to Neo-Night city, as that looks like the only currently inhabited part of the planet (edited)

The city is bathed in a neon glow, and if there are defenses or air traffic control - neither of them reach out to you. You pass over thousands of buildings and a few skyscrapers all reflective, dark, and lit from within by their own solar type lighting.

(Is there any kind of spaceport or airport near the city?)

(There is not, everything seems self contained within this city, and the populace for some reason has not traveled anywhere else)

"Ok, let's land somewhere nearby, but outside the city limits, who knows why they never leave, but perhaps we may be able to find out!"

8:51 AM

Once the Phobos has come into land, Val steps off, and heads towards the city

The sound of industrial pound music is loud even from the city outskirts and there is a loud cheer nearby as a grav-car flies overhead, sprinkling papers into the street below. People race out into the road to grab them, and there is no ground traffic to run them down

Val wanders forwards, and picks up a paper to see what's written on it

a leaflet advertising a party in a nearby club promising cash giveaways, free food, drinks, and other special party favors has been dropped in the street. Attached to each is a tear-away coupon that serves as a ticket to get in.

Huh, well this must be just how things are done here and surely it would be rude to decline an invitation! Val heads back to the Phobos, and puts on the closest thing she has to formal wear, but ensures she has a pistol concealed, just in case! She lets the crew know where she's going, and invites them along, should they wish to come, although suggests they pack a sidearm just in case something goes wrong, we are on a new planet after all!

The crew isnt willing to put themselves into that kind of danger on a world entirely foreign to them, but they promise to keep the ship ready and on standby if you end up needing a quick way out. for now, they'll remain hunkered down in the forest outside the city, and will do what they can to keep anyone away who may have seen them come down.

"Ok, sounds good, hopefully see you in a few hours!" Val heads out towards the party!

Hundreds of people wait outside a club that has been shaped into three layers, getting gradually smaller like a layered cake. Securityin dark suits and glasses with impassive faces stand like walls before the doors and ropes, watching as the crowd of revelers waiting to get in builds into a fever pitch of dancing and shouting.

(Are there other clubs in the area, or is it just the one?)

(there would be others around the city, right now this is the one that the flyer is advertising) (edited)

Val joins into the throng of people, asking those around her what sort of event this is, and whether they happen often and that sort of thing

These parties are often times the only way to secure what they call a 'patron' but are quiet other than that. The security moves the poles aside, and the doors open wide, blasting you with rich, incredible smells and an entrancing pounding dance beat. A dJ in giant headphones and backed by an array of neon lights beckons the revelers inside, and there is a cheer as the crowd begins surging in. Men and women dance in suspended cages, and on the second floor of the club separated by more security and a cordoned off stairwell, men and women in extremely elegant finery look on at the celebration, though most of them have cold faces

Val follows the crowd as it dives into the club, enjoying the revelry for a while, dancing and drinking with those around her!

(notice/wis)

(5)

You don’t notice anything aside frok@what you’ve observed already but every handful of minutes dark suited security members grab someone from the crowd and invite them up to the VIP level. They seem to be picking those catching the attention of the people up there

Val watches for a while, trying to see where people go after they've been to the VIP area, do they return to the dancefloor, or go somewhere else entirely?

After they are selected they do not leave the vip area and it seems like a smaller party in microcosm is happening up there. The revelers mingle with the dark clothed partygoers on the second floor

Val continues to enjoy the party, revelling with those around her and generally enjoying the evening

You're tapped on the shoulder after about ten minutes from your last observation of the men above, far into your third drink. "Ma'am. One of the Elder Families would like to speak with you, please" Despite is stoic and almost threatening appearance, the security official is well mannered, though seems to be taking care to ensure his right wrist is covered by his suit. There aren't any tell tale signs of a weapon there, however

"Sounds fascinating, I'd be only too happy, please lead the way!"

The security guards part and you’re brought up the stairs to a quieter section of the club. Quiet conversations happen in most of the conversation pits around the space and you’re brought to one- where two suited men and woman in a long red dress wait. They’re all quite pale. “You don’t smell like you’re from this world.” The woman says, standing to greet you

"Well, as it happens, I'm from a little further afield, exploring this part of the sector, might I ask what your name is?"

"Together, we make up House Veskulan, one of the ruling families of this city, and this planet. We'd like to know your name then, since we're exchanging"

"I'm Valentina, an explorer as part of the Aphroditan Guild, pleased to make your acquaintance. Would you tell me a little of House Veskulan, and perhaps a little of the other families within the city?"

"Ah the other families, hardly worth talking about when you're spending time with the best. We own several clubs, and high rise buildings across the city- as well as several pleasure operations. We're a deeply rooted family here, and we have access to many indulgences and blessings for those we think might be valuable to our own ends."

7:15 PM

Out on the floor, the dancing hits a fever Pitch, and the group of well dressed men and women stand up. "Security, take our guests to the VIP room, we'll talk more there. We're going to get a quick dance in, and meet you there" (edited)

"Sound's like you've got a fine arrangement here, we'll see you shortly then I'm sure." (How many other people are also being taken with me to the VIP room?)

(Nine others aside from you)

As you're led off to the side room, the sprinklers over the dance floor come on. The water coming out of them is thick, and red, and the doors of the club close. Your ears hear the first of the screams, before the VIP blast doors close behind you, and you're led down the hallway to a lounge where rich food, drink, a warm fire, heavy furniture, and all manner of recreational substances have been laid out

Well, it's curious that people voluntarily wander into a charnel house, I wonder if they know what they're getting themselves in for? Also, if they're killing off this many people every night, and in many places, how an earth does this planet retain a population? More imminently important question, are we the next to go? Once they've entered the VIP lounge, Val will get some food, and a non alcoholic drink to sober up a little. Then start up a conversation with someone who looks willing to have a chat. Once they've been talking for a little while, she'll ask, "So, do you know what happens next?"

“The elders will allow us entry to their ranks if we wish. The others down there were food. We are at least useful food” one smiles. “Shame they didn’t really know what they’d be getting into. The feedings aren’t usually this violent or open. Things have been getting bad lately. “ “Allow me to introduce myself. I’m the steward for the establishment here. I’m pleased to meet you”

"Pleased to meet you steward, have you worked here long? Good to hear that we're deemed useful at least, is something deteriorating to cause the feedings to become more regular? Could you tell me what entry into their ranks entails?"

“It’s always different. Depends on their mood really. they’ll tattoo a small rune on the back of your neck if you’re accepted. That’s the only commonality. I couldn’t begin to tell you what happens in the higher ranks or why the feeding went like this tonight. “

(How do the other 9 people who've been brought here look? Are they nervous, excited, etc?)

(Combination of, I'd say half and half)

7:52 AM

(Nobody in here is going to be killed out of hand though from what you can put together)

(Ok, well that's nice to hear at least) Curious as to what will happen next, Val will help herself to some more of the food (as it's probably much better than what can be easy stored on the ship!) and make small talk with the others here, possibly trying to learn a little of their backgrounds and who they are

The people here all seem like they are skilled, or specialized in some way. Bankers, Doctors, and Lawyers are common, though there are a few artisans and singers here too. It seems the nobles are handpicking useful people to induct into their households

8:27 AM

there is another shudder as the sprinkler system cycles back over to water, and some bangs down below as heavy doors are closed.

Val relaxes on a chaise, sipping a drink

(I'll move ahead then if you're satisfied , dont want to deprive you of any further info gathering before we get to the stakes)

(I was satisfied, but I've actually just thought of one more question, if Val has time for that) "Have you any idea what they might want with me?"

“You’ve got some means getting here from offworld. And clearly look the part of someone with power and money. I’m sure they could sense it as well”

"They said that I 'smell different' does that not strike you as an odd turn of phrase?"

"Not given who we're dealing with, no. Their senses, and indeed yours too if they allow it, are elevated in a sense"

8:01 AM

"just like how you can smell when the washing unit changes the scent of the soap for the first time. The air of other worlds sticks to a person"

"Are there other changes that they have undergone?"

"nothing drastic. Pale maybe, but I know plenty of people who don't like the sun. Get a look at the teeth though if you can. THose aren't body mods"

"Hmm, good to know... I'll be interested to hear what they propose." (Ok, I think I'm good to skip forwards, thanks!) (edited)

A few moments later the large doors boom open, and the finely dressed nobles emerge though now in different clothes. There is no trace of whatever happened down on the main dance floor on them at all. the air smells sweet, and they each have a personal magnetism about them, effortlessly collecting the attentions of everyone in the room. "Hello there. Thank you for indulging us a few moments. I hope you have all had your fill of food and drink, the best on the planet of course. I will cut right to it, the anxiety in the room is strong enough to put a knife into. You have all been chosen for membership. Our households will select who can benefit us the most, but we'd like a moment to hear you talk about yourselves, and what you can offer. In return, you will be marked as household members, given protection, and access in the city, and most importantly will be given some measure of authority over the locals"

Valentina will wait for a few moments, allowing to others to speak first if they wish to, she will then chime in and say, "Well, as you have already ascertained, I am from a world a great distance from here, among the stars. I must admit to being fascinated by new cultures and would like to know more of your household, and what joining it would entail, but I am certainly enamoured by the invitation. As for what I can offer, I can open up sector wide markets to you, there are a great many planets reaching out towards the stars, and you could be amongst them. I also like to think of myself as a reasonably successful businesswoman, the Aphroditan Guild is reaching out across the sector, exploring areas uncharted since the scream, attempting to rebuild infrastructure as it goes, and trying to make the lives of the people better, while making a handsome profit. I find that way many people are willing to accept things they otherwise might not be."

"Joining the household means of course loyalty to us, but that loyalty comes with the money and material support you might need to make those ambitions come true. This is two hands, clasping one another to pull ourselves up the mountain. "

"And if I might ask a further question, I've heard mention of various physical changes members of your household undergo, could I ask what this entails?"

“You’ll find yourself stronger, mroe mentally acute, and sickness will no longer trouble you. You will remain young, but you will have a hunger. You will need to feed. “

"On human blood specifically? And does it need to be fresh, just long space voyages could make that a little difficult!" (edited)

“The blood would need to be preserved. Many begin with animals, but the need for it to come from humanoids will form over time”

"Hmm, seems like a manageable side affect, I would be honoured to become a member of your household!"

(Physical effect save and just a base d20 so I can roll something up for you. You’re not going to die but there’s a different thing I have to do depending on pass or fail)

4

(Fail, 3 vs 7)

You feel a sense of frailty, though you recover quickly as a surge of strength enters your body. Your teeth lengthen a bit and develop small points, and your Age winds back several years to your peak. Muscles become lean with potential strength and your hair shines with a natural glow. Your skin becomes pale, but not sickly. (18 to dex, con, and cha. You are violently sensitive to daylight and will burn if venturing out without protective clothing. You may re roll one talk check per day for persuading someone to do something If you do not feed 3 days you will begin to suffer exhaustion or strain depending on the situation)

7:13 PM

(And keep in mind that openly feeding, ect , is super maltechy/just general superstition /fear people have. Most people won’t be chill about openly being what you are. This is very much a hide in plain sight kinda thing)

(Very cool! I was thinking of doing a rebuild on Val to take the Authority focus, and a few other tweaks, do you think this provides a good IC reason for the change in foci to occur?)

(Yes for sure)

8:20 AM

(just post what's changed once you're done)

New Foci List:
Taros
Tinker 2
Star Captain 1
Authority 2

New Skills:
Shoot 0: 1SP
Administer 1: 2SP + 1 Downtime SP
Fix 2: 2SP + 1 Background + 3 From Tinker
Heal 0: 1SP
Know 0: 1SP
Lead 3: 6SP + 3 form Star Captain + 1 From Authority
Notice 0: 1SP
Pilot 0: 1SP
Program 1: 3SP
Talk 2: 5SP + 1 Background
Trade 2: 5SP + 1 Hobby

Boost to Con increased HP to 59

(Does this count as finding a benefactor from outside the faction and/or discover a new faction?)

(I also ran down my list of personal goals, was the one about helping Daitrij uniting Heras classed as complete after bringing Stygia in?)

(its about to be complete, it counts for benefactor outside the faction)

(Ok, sounds great! I think I'd like to spend a little more time exploring Neo-Night city, if there's a hook or two there that you have in mind?)

(what would you be trying to look into with your new everything changed)

(Probably spending some time learning how the Vampires live, what the hunger feels like, how best to feed unnoticed, what the noble house I joined is working on, and what their ambitions are, what the other house are like and how they compare)

(alright, lot of info here, probably more than one mission is realistically going to cover. What would you want to start with

(Sure, let's start with being a Vampire 101, spending some time amongst the household, the hunger, and feeding, if you think that could be spun out in an interesting way?)

(sure thing) The Household and its members emerge into the night air, where an armored town car has been pulled up to the front of the building. You pass down some side stairs and don't see whatever is happening on the dance floor now, though you hear the sounds of other clubs and celebrations occurring. A few motorbikes fall in around the car as an escort, and the destination seems to be the edge of town where the family has some kind of personal estate or holding with a bit more privacy

Val spends much of the journey chatting with the others in the car, occasionally glancing out of the window at the passing city. "So, where are we headed?"

“Our estate at the edge of the city. You can meet the staff and explore the library. Get some answers tk the questions you might be having right now

"I certainly do have a few questions, so that would be very useful, yes! How long has the estate been owned by the household?"

"Over four hundred years now, since close to the first wave of human expansion. The officially recognized start date of the period, at least'

"Huh, and have any of you been around for that long?"

"most of us yes. though the household staff comes and goes and have not been around nearly as long"

"I would never have guessed, for 400 years old, you all look well, but I suppose you hear that all the time. Is there any point at which any of you would succumb to a natural death?" (edited)

"If we decide to stop feeding,or if blood becomes scarce. We can still die violent deaths if enough trauma is applied to us, and of course burning in the sunlight"

"Well, lets hope for long and prosperous lives, wait, or should that be undeaths?" (Probably good to skip to arriving at the estate!)

The state is a large home made of artisan stone. There are three floors on walled grounds surrounded by gardens and trees. It’s possibly one of the most verdant spots on the entire planet. An iron gate opens and the car enters on a paved drive , heading toward the home.

"You've certainly got quite the arrangement here, I'd love to take a look around, and spending some time in the library would definitely be interesting!"

"nice to meet someone with an appreciation for the past. You can probably find the answers to your other questions there. Our Dagoman also haunts that place, he is knowledgeable, if a little gruff"

"Pardon my ignorance, but who is the Dagoman?" (edited)

"Ah, an old word. THink of him as a house steward and lorekeeper all in one. He's human, rejected the change, but a useful man none the less'

"Sounds like a very useful man to know, I'm sure I'll find him." Val heads over to the library to find out what she has got herself into! (edited)

(She'll be starting with trying to find out what causes the vampirism and how it works, as well as whether there has been any research done so far into synthetic blood and that sort of thing)

(admin/int)

(13)

6

Synthetic blood experiments have all failed. As a short term measure they have been able to stop early symptoms, but eventually the body needs the real thing with what ha been uncovered so far. One should not expect to subsist on more than a month or two feeding on it. The cause is only hypothesized in the Household's lorebooks, a mix of complicated alchemical formula, ghoul technology, and mythology all wrapped into one. Most of the terms and names are incredibly niche or esoteric to the point of being meaningless to someone who has not spent many years exploring mythology. (edited)

Val takes notes on the information that she's read, hoping it can help with research later. (I don't know if she was conscious when she was turned, if so, what's the process, if not, she would look that up as well)

Only the house elders can turn others, though you were awake the secrets of how to turn others and bless them with this new form remain within their own private lore repository

(Superb, so I'm not going to accidentally start turning people during breakfast!) Val then heads off to seek out some of the history of the house, and also to see if some of the sectors history from before the scream exists here

(no they want to have ultimate control over who gets brought into the household, so you can feed to sustain yourself, but nothing beyond that- at least not right now)

(Superb, and would I be able to find anything on the history of the household, or the sector at large before the scream?)

The pre-scream information is not something that is in the care of this household, aside from word of mouth or legend- you come to find after several hours of searching

Ah well, it was a long shot! Having spent most of the afternoon in the library, Val heads back up dining room to see what the evening holds.

Dawn and the afternoon have passed with you in study and during the daylight hours the house is closed off by opaque metal shutters and interior window tint to ensure no sunbeams get in during the short daylight cycle. By evening the family has largely still continued their own private diversions, having fed the night before and not needing to today (edited)

(On the presumption that Val hasn't fed at all so far, it's probably time that she's getting peckish) Val heads up into the house, to ask one of the Vamps who happens to be around, where the best place is to go for, "Dinner"

Bags of harvested blood from the massacre at the dance club have been collected, and chilled. The blood has been filtered and cleaned, making it as safe as possible to dine on. The blood may be ingested intravenously, or as a drink, which most of the household seems to prefer instead.

Val pours a wine glass full from a blood bag, sipping at it a little unsure of the affect this may have on her

You feel like you’re slowly becoming more normal. A bit of light headedness you didn’t know you had now feels more stable, and grounded. You feel in every way you have just had the benefits of a large several course meal

7:00 AM

“You can eat, as well. It won’t benefit your body anymore, but some of us enjoyed the taste of food before the change. The social camouflage is also, helpful”

"Hmm, that feels much better, and I certainly would like to continue to eat normal food, sounds a little odd really, saying normal food as if that's the most natural thing in the world... Which I suppose it is now." Val pauses for a moment. "How long does blood stored like this normally keep for and could it be frozen?" (edited)

"Like this? less than a day at room temperature. Shorter if it gets hot. Refrigerated, you could get a few days out of it, and it does freeze well"

"That's good to know, although I'm going to have to come up with a good excuse to tell the crew. Perhaps bottles disguised next to bottles of fine wines? Would I be able to get a few weeks supply from the household's stores bottled up?"

"Of course. We can provide you with a month from house stocks. I see you've filed for a permit to begin building a base for your group here. What are your plans for Tece?"

"That would be wonderful, well, the first steps are to establish a little infrastructure, and then the members that brought me into the household expressed an interest in having more of a presence on the galactic stage, the first step to that would be a spaceport or similar to refuel ships that travel here."

"There are certainly enough unemployed to make some shifts working there. THis is agreeable"

"I'm glad to hear it, I'll shortly be heading out into space again for a while, please get in contact if you need to!"

9:54 AM

(I think Val will most likely head back to go and help with the efforts against the Ghouls as that's starting in the next month and the Eros will be coming off the production line ready for that!)

(I'm going to be posting the news later today, and following that there will be a discussion in the Galatea thread to war-plan)

10:31 AM

(so we'll see what is decided between everyone there to know where to go)

(Yep, sounds good to me! Would the Guild be able to comment in Galatea in a non voting way similarly to the Lamplighters and Void Wardens?)

(yes)

1

(Great, well, while that's planned, I believe Val had promised the People of Hergudr a 10k Tonne shipment of fuel this month, so she should probably go and make good on that promise if that works for you?)

(yeah we cna do that)

(Superb, so 5 days back to Heras to pick up the Hymenaeon, then I suppose the question is, does Tecmessa still sell fuel, it's listed as doing it the trade details, but I presume the refineries were an the stations so don't any more?)

(theres still stockpile on the ground and a binch of factions yours included are working on getting a colony there going again, so we'll say it still does

1:44 PM

(the gap in time where it probably wouldnt is so brief that fixing the spreadsheet and then fixing it again is more time than it takes to just deal with the problem in game)

(Infinite Power 12/12, auto targeting 5/7. Ok, that sounds good to me! So 2 more days for Heras -> Tecmessa, pick up 10k tonnes of fuel, shall we do a trade roll or treat it as average cost?) (edited)

(You're doing it to fulfill a promise, not try to make money, so we can do the base cost for this one)

(OK, 35Mil on fuel then, and obviously I'm not charging the people of Hergudr for it when I arrive! 3 days across to Hergudr, Auto Targeting 7/7, Starting to build a mastercrafted small advanced weapon, in the form of a rapier, 1/14 days Let's see what's happened to Hergudr in the past month, hopefully they've not been dragged away as slaves!)

The valiant fight against the weeds and ever growing foliage continues here, especially on the island where some of the initial gains against the growth has been lost- as the village has not had ample supplies to maintain that much area

Val hops into the Aegis, ready to head down to the planet's surface, ensuring that the UV shield is available, and her flamer is available incase she needs to quickly clear a landing zone, along with a belt of magma grenades. She directs the Phobos and Hymenaeon 1 to form up in orbit, the Phobos dwarfed by the Hymenaeon's sheer bulk, as two large cargo lighters detach into the darkness of the planet's night, carrying cargo containers full of fuel tanks, heading down to the planet's surface, setting down as close to the city as possible, floodlights from the lighter announcing their entrance.

The locals are hard ar work but those who can be spared from burn duty along with their foreman greets the lander as it makes its way down, eager to see that you've returned, and to see if the promise has been kept

Val lands ahead of the lighters, and says, "Good evening everyone, I've brought the fuel as promised, ten thousand tonnes, hopefully with that we can get this island cleared, and you can all get on with establishing a life for yourselves!"

The locals begin heading over to you, eager to begin unloading (iirc, the plan was to clear the entire island of the growth to see if anything comes back, and if it doesnt, to start developing the landmass a bit)

(Yep, Val's aim was essentially to clear the island to make it a haven on the island, where the other settlers on the continent could then be moved to the island, to a place of relative safety until resources are available to clear a larger area!)

(got it, well, we can clear things at least. I'm not sure if people would be so easily convinced to leave their homes, or if the people here woujld want outsiders moving in, but thats another adventure)

8:14 AM

Anyone not on shift, or recovering for theirs begins assembling to move the goods out of the cargo bay of the lander. The large tanks are reverently passed down from one handler to another, to be stored in the gas well storage building in the center of town

(Yep, sounds good!) "Ok then, would you like assistance with clearing some of the outer swathes of the forest, we should be able to ignite a large portion of the outlying regions with close air incendiary rockets, then I would be more than happy to work with your teams to extend the area out from the settlement to meet the larger areas that will hopefully start to clear!"

The foreman has a thought for a moment. "I have a better idea where your flyers might be even more helpful. Two rings. THe outside ring starts where the water meets the woods. Your aircraft fly sorties aroudn the island, and ensure the outer ring continues burning, firing rockets where necessary. From the inside, our crews will gradually move outwards. Everyone from the village will need to be involved. No reserves or idle hands. If we get the two rings of fire to meet, we won't have to worry about growth slipping in past us, or people carving out pockets and then getting trapped for gettnig too far ahead"

"Yes, that sounds like a fine plan, the experience of years here do show, and that should serve us well!" Val radio's to the air support that has been waiting in orbit, and informs them of the plan, as readies up the flamer that she's been carrying and starts to coordinate the villagers alongside the foreman.

(lead/cha, just to see how things are going as we kick off)

(16!)

5

Your supply along with the local leadershyip and expertise in dealing with the invasive plants combine to ensure that within three days of constant work, the island is clear of all growth. There is a large celebration, as the land seems clear. No doubt in time spores from the mainland will float here, and begin the process of growth, butisolated areas are far easier to deal with than a spreading ring of green

11:58 AM

(3xp, 5000 credits)

(Wonderful! Also, I believe the Hymenaon completing this month fulfils the goal of purchasing a trade ship?)

(Correct)

(Perfect, in which case level up incoming this evening!) Val would also ask the foreman about his opinion on two matters, one is inviting the other settlers from across the planet to live on the island now that it's mostly clear, and the other is if he would allow the Aphroditan Guild to establish an outpost here?

Level Up 8->9
-------------
[HP](59->64)
[Pilot](0->1)
[Shoot](0->1)

The guild is a friend but there are not many people here. Not enough for significant holdings.

3:06 PM

They are allows to make a small base if it won’t take too many people away from burn duty and patrols. They’ve worked hard to clear this island and have lost many trying to do it. He’s not keen on outsiders capitalizing on their work

"Well, in due course I will establish a small base, and hopefully that will in time encourage others to trade here and perhaps allow you to all become a little more self sustaining. Certainly in the short term not allowing outsiders makes sense, but once you are established here, I hope you will consider helping the other colonists on the planet, to make their lives a little easier, and to help you all grow together."

“Maybe once we have had time to claim our island. Maybe then

"Very well, then I'll leave you to your own devices, let my office know if we can be of help again!"

8:01 PM

(I've not done any combat for a while, so if it works for you I'd like to hop in on the Yauvani campaign!)

(Sure thing I have the mission teams forming now

1

(8 Days up to Yauvani, which is presumably our staging ground, Mastercrafted Small Advanced Weapon (9/14 Days) and would I be able to purchase the following before I get there?)

Shopping:
--------------------
Flop Rifle - 600 Credits
10x Sticky Grenades - 3000 Credits
10x Scrambler Grenades - 3000 Credits
4x Demo Charges - 1000 Credits
1x Hotshot Cartridge - 60 Credits

Total = 7660 Credits
---------------------

(edited)

(Yauvani is where we're staging since there's no fleet or space based defenses)

(Edited for 8 days to Yauvani, is that correct and is the shopping list ok?)

(shopping list is good)

2

(I'm good for whatever comes next for val, now that Yauvani is done)

(If it's ok with you, I'll probably pick up Val's thread towards the end of this week/beginning of next, I've got quite a few deadlines this week, and I think best not to split my attention, in case I start slowing down the group Christmas thread!)

(That works for me)

(Ok, I'm starting to get back into the swing of things! A little while back, Val agreed to explore some of the unexplored areas of Tsatos for Billy, and see what secrets it holds, which sounds like a good thing to get on with to me?)

(That's fine! I've got 9 days downtime from Yauvani to Tsatsos then since that was our last known position)

(Great, Mastercrafted Small Advanced Weapon (Rapier) 14/14 days Customized Mod 2/4) The Phobos drops into orbit around Tsatos, Val broadcasting to the local ATC, requesting permission to land, and querying which areas are yet to be explored!

https://www.worldanvil.com/w/iron-stars-nekosmash/a/tsatsos-article?preview=true (anything on the map without a label)

Tsatsos

(How about the ruin type structure to the South East?)

The ruins of the Remnant production plants have never been explored before you come to find out after loading local geographic data with your own layered over it. The facility is hardened , resistant to orbital bombardment and concentrated ground attack, and the presence of traps and other likely defenses even with no workers there had kept rcoe from investing the time and men into figuring it out

"Well, this sounds like an interesting site to uncover, if a somewhat dangerous prospect!" Val dons the Aegis, and jets away from the Phobos as it comes into land a short distance off. As Val circles around the site, she scans for the presence of QECM, wondering if drones may be of use here!

There’s some residual jamming around the facility. Drones would be able to get close but may become less responsive once inside the 5km radius around it The facility still has power it seems.

Val loops over the facility, and radios back to the Phobos, Ok, looks like they've got QECM in the facility itself, so I'll leave off the drones, meet you at the rendezvous in two hours, if I'm not back by then, see if you can make radio contact, if that doesn't work grab some reinforcements!" Val decelerates towards the entrance, drawing her shear rifle looking around for any automated defenses that may still be active.

(How close did we want to get so I can figure out range or who sees what)

(Shall we try 500m to start?)

There are flashes of light from the ramparts as you close to within 500m , automated anti aircraft defenses are spitting long streams of bullets and boffors shells skyward, trying to ward you away

As the guns open fire, Val dives low, trying to break the anti aircraft tracking, as she races towards the main entrance

(Pilot/dex)

(9 or 15, if the check includes the mech's speed)

(does not include the speed, just your piloting ability)

(9 then!)

You're able to weave through the flak and streams of anti-aircraft fire, to land at the facility gates where you're inside the minimum depression range. The gates are thick, blast door in appearance, marked with a large Tenebrian Remnant stellar dragon, roaring in defiance even though the former masters of the facility are long defeated or dead.

Val starts by looking for a way to activate the door, a keypad or similar

There is a very large emergency open handle to the right of the doorway. With your mech assisted strength you should be able to get enough leverage on it

Val heaves downward on the lever, stepping back from the door as she does to give her cover from any automated defences inside

(I’ll get a map up for you )

8:57 AM

(Landing area is that north outdoor area)

Val peaks around the now open door, checking the entrance foyer for obstacles

The access hallway leading it in itself seems devoid of obstacles, though there is a door to the left and right of the room leading into various section of the factory. Straight ahead, there is also an armored hatch leading into an area marked HOLDING

Val heads first into the room to her left (RHS on the map), to see what that has in store

A control bank outside the room has a terminal on it that begins igniting as you approach. The ambient light from it helps lighten the gloom

Val heads towards the terminal, and starts to interrogate the system

(We can do some general questions and if there’s something secure we will get a program check)

(Sure!)

 
What was the original purpose of this facility?

Who was it run by?

Why was it abandoned?

What defenses are still active?

(edited)

(Program/int for the second and last question. So two checks)

(7 and 15)

The facility was meant to produce fighting equipment for the Remnant and hold psychic prisoners. It was run by the Remnant Office of Naval Intelligence, and it was abandoned because the Remnant lost the war. The defenses are still active

Val would then query the computer to see if the defences can be deactivated and if they can't be then to find the locations of the defences

Nekosmash pinned a message to this channel. 1/4/2021 2:05 PM

Turrets have been marked in red, and inverse gravity plates hidden in the floors have been marked as blue on the produced map

Nekosmash pinned a message to this channel. 1/4/2021 2:08 PM

Val takes a note of the locations and then, turning to the door behind the console, she peeks to look for the turret that's marked on the map

You can see a panel in the side wall where it must extend when triggered

8:04 PM

It’s closed right now, your peek not enough to set it off

Val puts a shear round into the panel, and assuming it looks disabled, heads through the door

(would still need a damage result, but since its hard to miss a giant wall we're not going to be concerned about the hit roll

(14!)

1

The turret panel shatters, spilling sparking machinery across the hallway floor. The turret is now very disabled.

Val slides the door fully open and heads into the room to take a look around (edited)

A secure conference room with a hallway running north greets you once you move past the flaming wreckage of the turret. Manila folders shrunken a bit by time all sit in front of the chairs

1:25 PM

they're marked with the wagon wheel and arrow symbol of the Remnant Office of Naval Intelligence

Val starts to read the titles of the folders, to get a better idea of what the office of naval intelligence were studying here (edited)

Opening them, you begin seeing plans from the old war against the UNW. Bounties for Silvano Mazzio, Seung Whitaker , Doona ahn and most of the minor psychics are included , as well as an ambitious plan to embed remnant commandos in the forests of Gudrun. A UNW traitor was also mentioned but you know from galactic news they were apprehended in a separate investigation

(Would I understand that to be indicative of the site being very recently abandoned?)

(the Remnant was defeated a couple years ago. So I guess recent depends on the scale you're thinking) (edited)

(Yep, that makes sense, thanks!) Val leafs through the documents for a while, pondering if any of the information could still be relevant, if they could still have agents embedded on Gudrun.

Nothing in here seems to answer that question, but the information might be of worth- for historical purposes if not to aid an actual investigation

Ok, Val will collect up the papers and stow them, thinking they may be of particular interest to Billy. Next she looks to the left, towards the bunk rooms, and heads down the corridor

Heading south to the bunk rooms there are no traps. There is a larger room for non-commissioned squad level officers to share, and a pair of smaller rooms for actual flag rank officers to settle in when they needed to stay here

Val explores the rooms a little, noting the similarities between military installations, while looking around for any signs of who might have been stationed here

Remnant officers would have been here, along with probably slaves for manufacturing, and a host of guards. Those quarters are likely elsewhere - these seem set aside for ranking visitors. The factory probably had many during their war with the UNW.

Val heads back towards the conference room, now looking back down the other corridor towards the front of the facility, she looks for a pen or other similar small object, and throws it down the corridor towards the inverse gravity plate

The pen goes flying and sticks into the ceiling , vibrating gently as it’s held in place

Val rifles through her pack looking for an EMP grenade, pauses for a moment, pulls the pin, and rolls it down the hall towards the gravity plate

(Do you have a scrambler grenade on you? Emp ones aren’t in the game as far as I remember

(Yes, sorry I just used the wrong name!)

The scrambler is primed and thrown and for at least a handful of seconds the plate is offline. The pen falls along with other loose debris

Val moves down the corridor, looking for the turret as she does so

The Iris hatch in the ceiling protects the stairs up to a control room. Knowing it is there, you can stay out of its engagement range while handling it

Val levels her shear rifle towards the hatch, aiming carefully and then discharging the energy blast into it (23 Damage assuming you don't need a to hit for this one either!) (edited)

There is a clatter of metal as the destroyed turret falls to the floor, breaking apart as it hits the rigit and unyielding metal decking

Val moves swiftly down the corridor, looking to investigate the control room ahead

CAUTION. HIGH VOLTAGE. Is written on the control room door with a large yellow sign

9:16 PM

The door is rubberized and closed

(Do you think a posttech toolkit would contain a voltage detector pen, or perhaps a similar but more accurate device capable of detecting EM fields?)

(I think it would have that yeah)

(Ok, superb!) Val pulls a EM field detector, and starts to scan across the area of the door, seeing whether this room is still powered. Simultaneously, she runs a hand across the rubberised door, feeling for vibrations from any machinery behind the door

The room is still powered, and through the rubber you feel slight vibrations. Something is still running in there

Val pauses for a moment, thinking to herself Well, from what I've seen in the past, Caution, High Voltage isn't going to shock me unless I touch the wrong thing... ah well, here goes nothing Val reaches for the handle and pulls

The control room door opens and you see this is the electrical room for the facility. The reactor must be underground but the power it produces is routed through here. You can see why it was so well defended now. The reactor has 43% of its fuel left and the facility is currently in standby mode

Val looks around the room carefully, trying to spot the power feeds for the external and internal defences

The feeds are tamper proofed where by cutting them you’re also cutting power to the production machinery, and there doesn’t seem to be an easy way to re wire it correctly later

Well, that's unfortunate, perhaps we'll just have to change the defences friend or foe designation, regardless, let's see what the rest of the facility has to offer (Was the power room the cupboard to the right of the turret? Or the one at the front of the facility?)

(Right of the turret)

Val moves forwards into the front of the facility, investigating what it has in store

(front as in south or north?)

(North, as long as I've not got turned around at some point should be the one in yellow?)

You're brought to a larger control room that has the overall functioning of the facility under wraps from here. A balcony looks outside to the exterior of the planet, across a dazzling landscape. Some of the same stats are repeated here, though you see controls for the 'psychic cages' that the power room did not have

Val pauses a while, admiring the planet's surface, across the lava flows and great volcanic hillsides that majestically rise up to frame the view. She wonders for a moment if this might be what Dai would refer to as Ognyena's work, perhaps there may be a little more to the pantheon of the gods than Val had originally given them credit? Turning back to the console, she looks for the bases defence controls, as well as investigating the state of the psychic cages, are they still powered on, and do they seem to be occupied?

The cages are powered, and there are occupies registered but there are no health readouts, so the people there are possibly dead, having not been tended for some time. The Remnant did evacuate the facility in a hurry, and it is also possible the records were simply not updated before time ran out.

Val makes a note and starts to work her way back through the facility, testing for the gravity plates with the pen as she goes, working her way towards the right hand side of the facility.

The cargo side of the facility has dozens of containers in it. Most are vehicle parts awaiting assembly

3:00 PM

Others have fuel, power cells, and raw materials for the smaller mroe refined components needed in vehicle construction

Hmm, well, if they were making vehicles here once, perhaps it would be a good place to manufacture them once again, take the monopoly on that away from Sumati... Val moves towards the back of the facility (south) making sure to disable any turrets as she goes

You approach the prisoner cells area, and can see a bot with vials of food product heading out in the direction of the cells, though it does not stop to regard you

Val follows the bot along the corridor keeping a bit of distance, but heading to find the cells, interested to see if the people who the bot is feeding are still alive (edited)

(Sneak/dex)

(8, not great, possibly fine?)

The bot doesnt notice you and you’re able to get into the cell block behind it. The doors to the cells are flat metal and featureless aside from a vision block, which is closed on this first door

Val moves up to the first door, presses herself against it and carefully slides back the vision slit as quietly as possible and peeks in

A skeleton lies there surrounded by dozens of unopened packages of rations and freeze dried meals.

Val slides the slit closed, Well, that's unfortunate, but not unexpected. Val then moves between each of the cells, looking in through the slits, to see if any of the others have fared any better (edited)

You hear life signs in the last of the cells to see this one is designed as some kind of medical ward. The bot is inside replacing a feeding bag and emptying a waste one. The pod itself has the figure immersed in dark liquid. It’s human or humanoid at least but any further details are obscured

Val waits for the bot to depart before slipping into the room, looking for any identifying information as to who the person in stasis is?

Ambrose Carrera is the name listed on the chart, and on the tank

11:21 AM

they are a psychic, but the chart does not say what type, and that they were taken prisoner on Terezinho when the Remnant occupied the planet

Val ponders for a moment, skimming the details on the chart, as well as any vital sign readouts, considering that the Academy would probably be best to deal with waking a potentially unstable, potentially injured psychic, and trying to work out if it would be safe to move Ambrose

The machinery itself seems at least semi-portable, with some help from the ship's crew, though its probably best not to wake him up until the academy gets a look at him in the off-chance he is feral

Val radio's the Phobos, "We've got an individual in stasis who I'd like to take for the academy to revive, I'll need to disable the defense systems first, but once that's done, land the Phobos as close to the base as you can." Val then works her way back through the facility, to check if there's anything else she's missed before heading to disable the defenses from the main control room

The other cells have more dead bodies in them though the robot hasn’t stopped feeding them anyway.

Val then moves back through to the control room, trying to work out if there's a way to override the external defenses from here, or if she'll need to go on the roof to disarm them, "manually"

It seems apparent you'd need to go to the roof since the previously discovered anti-tampering systems are preventing you from doing exactly that-tampering- with them down in the control room- though the path back to the main entryway where you came in has already been cleared due to your explorations

(As far as Val knows, would defences designed to repel ships, such as those on the roof, have a minimum engagement distance?)

(oh those, 500m saw you get fired on, but not before)

(Ah, I might have got confused at some point, I know there's still an anti grav plate still potentially active as I only EMPed it, but have I inadvertently forgot to disarm another of the traps inside the facility? As for the ones on the roof, do they have a specific firing arc, or are they generally able to target anything outside that moves?)

(They're turreted, so no arc, they can rotate, but they wont fire outside of 500m)

3:19 PM

(think of them like a 2600 era CWIS)

(Oh nice, so if you got close enough, it probably wouldn't be able to swivel fast enough to target a person?)

(oh i see what you mean now, no, they cant depress low enough to hit a person

(Perfect!) Val powers up her mech's boosters, as she moves outside before jetting up onto the roof and moving next to the first turret she spots

The weapon doesn’t register you being there as it cannot turn itself to engage you. It’s about as tall as your suit but about twice as wide with an array of spinning barrels and ammunition feeds

(She has a post tech toolkit with her, is there some kind of critical component that could be removed, rather than just shooting it?)

(Yes and your fix is good so youd just be able to sever the connection rather than break everything )

(Sweet) Val goes to work on the defences on the roof of the facility, disconnecting power lines, removing firing pins and ammo feeds, ensuring the Phobos has a safe approach to the facility. "Ok Isabelle, bring the Phobos in gently and let's get our esteemed guest out of here!"

The ship slowly sets down, and the guns do not open fire. Your work is done well. It takes about a half hour to get the guest out the front doors and re-wired into your own med-bay, where the hibernation processes keeping him alive resume.

The phobos plots a course out of system towards Gudrun and the Psychic academy, sending a message to RCoE before they jump.

(6xp, 10,000 credits , and 3 days of jump)

(Thanks! Customised 4/4, Boosted 1/7)

Arriving in Gudrun, the Trivedi Cloud station welcomes you in, and a complex series of docking instructions follow that seem to be more your pilot's problem than yours as you begin trying to contact the psychic academy below. A woman known as Crane answers the call, and you can hear the steady click of computer keys in the background as she gives her salutation

Val picks up the comm, and starts relaying information, at some speed, "Crane, pleased to meet you, It's Valentina Spiros up here, we've just come in from Tsatsos, and we've got a psychic in stasis who was abandoned in a remnant facility, we thought you'd be best equipped to look after them, and you'll presumably have nullifiers or metapsions on hand in case they're particularly disoriented when they wake?"

'Yes, we have instructors and emergency personnel on hand. Things were becoming dull around here" she seems to laugh gently to herself. "Proceed directly to the Nova Academy landing pad on the surface, within Central. We will meet you with a crash team"

"Dull, at the Psychic Academy, I've never heard of such a thing! We'll see you at the pad shortly" Having been given permission to land on the planet directly, the Phobos does a swift burn, putting it on course for Central. Spotting the landing pad, they decelerate and land gently on the pad, not wasting a moment to lower the cargo ramp and invite the academy personnel up to the medbay to examine Ambros' stasis pod. "Would you like to move him into your medical facility before he is revived, there seems to be a small energy source onboard for short distance transportation."

"We're going to be taking him down there for just that, though revival from cold storage is an all hands on deck sort of thing, and we're going to need an extra hand. You're staying, I'd hope"

"I'd be more than happy to, although I've no talent for psionics, I've seen my share of field wounds, and always have a helper on hand," as a Medicus drone, bearing a number of injector and spray looking appendages rises over Val's shoulder. "Shall we?" As Val gestures out of the medbay

Val. That is an important find! I do envy that you got there first and as a Govenor it would be wise to give you thanks and nationalize the factory but as a businessman and adventurer, I give you great respect for clearing it out. 

I’ll tell you what. Build it. Claim its yours with condition. There will be government oversight of course, but I will also guarantee to be your first customer. I need vehicles made for the Tsatsos Homeguard. Tanks, Modern Blitzers, Planes. It’s been on my to do list to build them. 

Afterward, there will be regulation. You’ll be limited to the manufacturing of civilian grade vehicles unless otherwise permitted by UNW law or a deal is secured with outside nations per council guidance. Personal use is of course an exception. 

If you’d like help designing or pioneering a Tsatsos speedster or other type of vehicle, please let me know. I would love to lend my expertise to this endeavor. I’m genuinely jealous you got such a wonderful find there. I would have killed for that. 

Let me know your thoughts. 

Billy.

(so mechanics wise this is a production center for Val on Tsatsos? , in exchange for lowered friction for RCOE?) (edited)

(If you and Billy are both happy with that, then that would be great! I believe the caveat is that the production centre cannot produce weaponised vehicles for export, but it can do so for AGET and RCoE. Although if that makes it far too complex on paper, we could just list it as a non-military production centre, and in the lore it produces some of the vehicles that AGET and RCOE build?)

(that's all i was going to do, basically just use it for peaceful purposes.)

(Yes)

(Ok, sounds superb, I'll add it to my build list for Y4M8, will the vehicles use one of the listings in the trade sheet, or will it be a new good?)

(what's friction getting reduced to?)

(I think that's a question for @Paxcyan Wilder (Billy), I've not discussed it with him)

(Yeah we should figure that out )

(I mean they’ve all been pretty low. Is it already 2 or no?)

(Yep, you're quite right, it is, I hadn't thought to check! If your happy with that we'll just carry on with that!)

(currently at 2 for aphro on Tsatsos)

(Superb, in which case I think that's all tidied up, time to discover what's in the box! Or cryo pod if I'm being specific!)

The team rapidly takes the occupant down to the medical wing where you help fit tubes, electrodes and cables into the right places. Vital signs become established and are recording , and a tray of various drugs is brought in to be injected into the feed lines in a long and time consuming process

11:59 AM

Crash awakening someone without them kills in 25% of all cases, and there is no emergency here that makes such a risk one that is meaningful to take

Val stands to one side, watching on with interest, and ready to attend to anything she's called upon to do

(Heal/int at +2, and we'll get a nice summary for our friend here)

(10)

The labor is several hours and you're asked a few times to consult the chart, send chemicals into a feed line, or confirm readings from the vast array of instrumentation panels. There is a final chirp and a warning alert before steam begins to fill the inside of the tank, clouding the occupant from view. The glass pops outward, and two orderlies catch it, hauling it aside before it can break on the floor. Doona looks on, with Crane, both of them ready to provide additional bioscopic healing if needed. There is a weak cough from inside as a well built human male drags himself out of the tank

"Hello?" Val steps forwards as she looks on at the man who stepped out, "I'm Val, do you remember your name?"

A tall and faintly unctuous man holding a pile of neatly tailored executive dress emerges from the tank. "Ambrose Carrera, at your service" he says, in an overly solicitous manner. "May I trouble you for some water?"

"Certainly," Val reaches over to a sink, and runs a cold cup of water for him, and passes it over, "Can I ask, what's the last thing you remember before entering stasis?"

"The Remnant asking me one more time where my friends were hiding, and then getting clubbed over the back of the head with a rifle butt." (edited)

"Ah, that's unfortunate, although you seem to have fared better than most of the captives in that facility. Although, I hope you understand that we are not the remnant, you're no longer on Tsatsos, we've brought you to Gudrun, where we had the medical facilities to ensure you were able to be removed from stasis safely. Ambrose, are you psychically gifted?"

"Yes. They had no problem using my precognition for if there would be a crowd at dinner, and if the staff car would be here on time. Shameful, really"

"Hmm, it is rather, fortunately, you are now a free man, to do as you please. I'd recommend you stay at the academy for as long as Crane and her team recommend, just in case there are any after effects of the stasis, but after that, I'm sure your talents will be in great demand! Any idea what you might like to do?"

“I know everything” he says confidently. “Restaurants , where to find an organ grafter, anything. I’m well connected”

"That's certainly good to know, well, if you ever come across a tutor knowledgeable in the art of the blade, I'd like to learn, then the blade that used to simply be a mark of office, might be of practical use, plus, I hear martial arts are good for the soul! Also, I'm probably looking for some new cyberware soon, so let me know if you come across anything particularly novel!"

(3xp, 5000 credits)

(Wonderful! That's level 10 then, I'll post a level up shortly!)

2

Level 9 -> 10
HP: 64 -> 75
Gain Focus: Star Captain Level 2
Program 1 -> 2
1 SP Banked

(Downtime to Yauvani, Boosted 7/7, Auto-targeting 3/7)

(If it works for you, I'd like to start work on the contract from Aiya! I think it's probably worth getting numbers for the Mercenary arm down on paper. In terms of recruiting troops, did the Hymenaeon manage to pick any up beyond a skeleton crew before it left Heras?)

(you only get 10% of the worlds 6% of people under arms yearly as mercs you can recruit. THey'd be able to take from passing worlds as much as you have the credits to buy and maintain contracts for. There wouldnt be any limits to recruiting aside from money/how many mercs are available in a given place- nothing that has to be worked out through story) (edited)

4:03 PM

(but yes, we need to do this before we do anything else so we aren't poofing tanks and planes and all the other stuff into battle randomly)

(Hi Neko, Just to keep you in the loop, I haven't missed or forgotten this, I'm just waiting on a quiet-ish day, where I can do some paperworky bits and figure out numbers!)

(sounds good to me, i can help you figure it out when youre ready too)

(If you want to jump into something else that’s smaller in scope before we do a whole merc legion I’m game for it

(No, all well, it's just taken me a bit to get my ideas together! Ideally I think the best thing will be for the Hymenaeon to go back to Heras and Radji to collect both vehicles and personnel. This will hopefully be 25 tanks, and 2 more of each of artillery, air and naval support, using the templates I've been using for the guilds vehicles so far. I should note that the purchase price listed for the designs I've done previously are different to that of the contracts listed in Starvation Cheap. Armour is listed at 60k and my design is 296k Artillery is listed at 40k and my design is 132k Naval is not listed and my design is 260k - although from what I can tell it's function is very similar to artillery Air support is listed at 300k and my design is 150k I'm not sure what you want to do about the discrepancy, although my preference is to use the designs I drew up earlier, then if there's ever a reason for Val to jump into a vehicle on the front lines, we have nicely defined stat blocks already, so I don't mind paying the higher cost, if that's the requirement! Plus it fits with how I perceive the Merc Legion; fairly inexperienced, but well equipped!

5:09 PM

While the last of the vehicles are finished up, the Hymenaeon can go for a 4 day refit, which I'll post shortly, but the main change is adding extended life support and an extended med bay, taking the number of personnel capable of being on board to 15,000 Heras has 45mil inhabitants, so taking 0.6% the max I could recruit is 270,000, so that shouldn't be a barrier! Looking to take on 15,000 TL4 Soldiers, at 4000 initial, then 400 a month ongoing, so the initial outgoing cost is 60Mil, coming from AGET! Including all personnel and vehicles (not ships as they're already accounted for in AGET's monthly calculation) the monthly running cost at the outset will be 6.53mil per month. My other question is, would it be reasonable for me to pick up a couple of extra suit mechs, to offer to other PCs in group missions, just something I noted with the most recent ghoul mission, far from necessary, but it would have been nice to have the option for people to be similarly equipped! I know that's a lot of information, but I thought it easiest to have all my cards on the table, then if I've made a mess, somebody can highlight it!)

)the higher cost. You’re paying for the contracts of the people running it as much as the vehicle

5:13 PM

(And no mechs are generally not something that are created. They’re highly advanced machines recovered by lost technology and the ones we do have in the game have all been earned

(OK, suits me! I'll do the posts in the prerequisite places!)

Hymenaeon's Movements:
4 Days Yauvani Heras
20 Days for Refit and Armoured Support production, 15,000 troops collected.
1 Day to Radji to collect the rest of the armoured support
Then a yet undefined number of days for it to move out alongside the Anteros, hopefully to rendezvous with the Eros!

(So if it works for you, while that happens and before we go charging in with an assault on Maysoon, taking the Eros to scout the areas to the south of Ziya-AL-Gulam seems to me like a good plan!)

(We can do that. Just let me know where to head first )

(I think Ziya-Al-Gulam would make a good first stop, then work south from there to see if the Etxauren Empire has spread further since anyone last went south!)

A short trip of three days has you in the ZAG system, where an automated message from Nexcorp plays over your bridge speakers automatically.

Unidentified vessels, this system is classified as a war zone and is under Nexcorp administration. You are not authorized and you are requested to turn around. Further instructions will be provided when this system has had its security state improved

Good afternoon Nexcorp,
This is Val Spiros of the Aphroditan Guild, we're just on our way south and wanted to check the Etxauren Empire hadn't given you any trouble this for north?

The Extaurren Empire has not passed through this area

(Hang on, isn't Nexcorp the group that was on Erdoza until recently? Also, what was the message broadcast from?)

(It was, and from their ships that are also in the system)

2:37 PM

(though ZAG 1 and ZAG 2 would both have planetary comms anyway capable of reaching you)

(Am I able to establish how many ships they have in system, and how they're kitted out?)

(we'd need a series of rolls for that, and need to do a bit of book keeping ahead of time. first, We would need to know which ships are doing the scanning, because different sizes have different modifiers) (edited)

(Sounds good to me!) Aboard the bridge of the Eros, Valentina leans back in her chair for a moment, before leaning over towards the Comms console, "Ok Lucius, let's get as clear a picture as possible of what they've got out there, although let's stick to passive sensors, I don't want them to know we're prying, although I don't like the look of this on the surface!" (So, OOC, I think the mods on my end are +1 for the observer being a frigate, but -2 for passive sensors, with the advantage they won't know that we're scanning?)

(for your side of it, right. Val scanning rather than an NPC is probably also an advantage due to your program level)

(Yep, I believe NPC is base +2? So would be at +3 including the bonus from authority. Val would be +2 Int, +2 Program and an additional +1 if the black slab applies?)

(black slab does not since we're using ship systems)

(Ok, in which case Val's is still better, at a +4, giving a total of 2d6+3, do you just want a single roll, or do you need a few?) (edited)

(just give me one and ill roll for what's around with your result as the DC)

(10, spot on average!)

One free merchant that is essentially empty save for as much life support and cargo space as it can fit is orbiting the first planet.

(Would I be able to establish a connection with Zag 1 or 2 without Nexcorp being able to intercept it, or is pretty much everything open when it comes to communications?)

(There’s not any communications that they’re not monitoring right now. )

(Am I able to send a message to Galatea from here, or would I need to hop back to Chloe to send that?)

(You can send a message but it takes a day per hex to arrive at its destination like any interstellar comms do) (edited)

(Ok, great, I'll write the message out here, then copy it into Galatea once three in game days have elapsed!)

#Beginning Secure Transmission#
To the Members of the Galatean Council,
This is Valentina Spiros of the Aphroditan Guild, in orbit around Ziya-Al-Gulam. We've discovered that Nexcorp have established operations in system, and given their behaviour on Erdoza, I suspect they do not have the best intentions in mind here. We intend to refuel, and will forward a further message within the next week to confirm any additional information we have been able to gather.

Sincerely,
Val

6:45 AM

"Nexcorp, this is Val, we're going to enter orbit around the star to scoop fuel, we'll be out of your hair and heading south again shortly," Closing the channel, she turns to Isabelle, "Ok, take us in slowly, and everyone ready to react if they make any moves against us please"

(I count 9 hexes between here and Galatea)

8:12 AM

(if you actually intended to scoop fuel, 4 days will pass but as long as you're not trying anything shifty they'll leave you alone)

(Yep, I don't particularly need an answer to the message, so I'm not planning to wait for the reply, and no, not trying anything shifty, this is primarily a scouting mission against EE. We'll continue running passive sensors while scooping so that if there are any other fleet movements through the system, we stand a chance of detecting them!)

Youre not able to detect anything more than the one free merchant, as you've locus locked it, and it seems to just be moving either people or some light cargo between the two inhabited planets. It doesn't seem to rest in one place for more than a few hours over the days it takes for your fleet to refuel

With refuelling complete, and the message dispatched to Galatea, Val directs the ships to head to the edge of system and prepare to jump south to Pelela (I'm not sure if you want to bother generating scouting reports of each of the systems as we head south, as I suspect we'll move south quite quickly until we meet an Etxauren scout ship, or get down to Alcatyl?)

(If you're passing through them I'll generate them. I am sure some that way already have been)

(OK, great, in which case 2 days onto Pelela, Autotargeting 5/7!)

8:02 AM

Just before they jump further south, Val sends an additional message to Galatea, detailing that Nexcorp made no aggressive action, and have only shown a single free merchant vessel in the system, as originally reported.

(put that in the galatea channel as well, they are probably not reading your thread)

(Yep, I was going to give it a couple of days for the messages, just to keep the time vaguely consistent, but I'll copy it across now if you don't mind!)

(Lets, i dont think anyone is in a position to suddenly pivot to handle them right now anywya

8:09 AM

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

Pelela

(All done, what's a generation ship? Similar to a colony ship, or a ship generating power, or something else entirely?)

(A colony ship that usually uses sublight speeds to reach its destination, so multiple generations pass onboard before it arrives.)

(Thank you Raes. But please refrain from answering questions in other people's threads.)

(It’s the exodus ship from engines of Babylon, if you’re looking for a description- Also, yes please don’t do that. Even if it seems obvious you might not know what I’m trying to do in a scene and I’d rather not invite confusion) (edited)

(Ok, that's great!) Val directs the little fleet to start scooping fuel, noting the hostility of the atmosphere, and wondering a little about how the Ai'Tre are able to survive on such hostile worlds, regardless, she gets to work alongside the crew scooping fuel, as well as taking some time to map out the next jump south to Nilma!

(4 days are passing here, with no downtime spend since fueling. I'll generate another report when I can)

(Sounds good, no rush, I know generating a lot of them can be a pain for you!)

(Drawing now!)

Breathable Atmosphere
Engineered Biosphere
Tens of Millions of Inhabitants
TL4 The Nilma system is a large inhabited grassland world where trees and forests are sparse. It has two moons, one barren and the other a molten amalgamation of still forming rock- cooling into a planetoid. Although they are Tech Level 4 by the old Mandate rating system, they lack spaceflight capabilities. A gas giant, small uninhabited barren planet, and bright red-orange sun round out the system. Intercepted radio traffic from the Nilma system speaks of some kind of rampant contagion called "The waste" that needs to be quarantined without hours of discovery. There are no other hints that you can gather as a passive observer.

(edited)

Val directs the fleet to refuel, while monitoring communications for additional information on this contagion, where it might be found, whether it's treatable, etc

You’re not able to glean any other information as a passive observer while you refuel.

Concerned about the spread of disease on a relatively packed ship of mercenaries, Val decides that giving the planet a wide birth for now would seem sensible, as she moves to plot the route onto Madhur, and takes the fleet into spike

(seen, ill come up with a world)

(Superb, thanks!)

Barren Biosphere Breathable Atmosphere TL0 Hundreds of Millions of "Inhabitants" Madhur is a single bright yellow-green sun, shining on a world ruined by nuclear exchange. Two other smaller barren worlds inhabit this system that likewise have no actual life upon them. Ruins of a former alien civilization dot the first planet in this system, and it seems as though some ancient Slyth society has held on here in very small, scattered enclaves. Scattered radio transmissions between enclaves speak of some sort of generational mutation of the engineered virus that decimated the Slyth race hundreds of years ago.

4:07 PM

On this world, they speak of the dead walking, little more than rotting flesh and poorly articulated bone, but none the less deadly as decaying brains seek only to infect new hosts with the deadly virus.

Val directs the fleet to refuel, while trying to make contact with any of the slyth enclaves on the planet

(Don’t have roll20 right now , does val speak slyth?)

(Sadly, she doesn't!)

The unloading messages don’t make sense to you or any of the crew but you’ve been given some limited communication from all of them. There’s life enough down there to send a message

Val takes recordings of all the messages, hoping they may be translatable later. She then transmits a message in English, hoping that someone might be listening and capable of understanding them. "Valentina aboard the Eros calling any inhabitants of Madhur, is anyone recieving?"

"Not Safe" followed by static. "Not Safe. Landing not safe" and then more static. The enclave on the ground seems to be reporting the same thing over and over while they try to get their communication systems to dial in. Numbers are repeated over and over, in the same two strings of sequences as part of the recording.

"Message received ... Sort of," Val trails off for a moment as she thinks ,"We'll hold in orbit for the next 12 hours if you can get a message out to us knowing your situation would be great! If nothing else we can try to get word out to organisations tooled up for dealing with this sort of thing."

Val to all AGET vessels, please hold position and keep comms arrays scanning the planet below, we don't want to miss it if they get a message out to us.

Val then heads back to her cabin to go over the two sequences of numbers and see if she can glean any information from them. (Would this be a skill check thing, or do I as a player get the sequences and try to figure it out?) (edited)

(I'm thinking survive, or know)

(Cool, Know sounds good to me!)

3:57 PM

(10)

The strings of numbers are coordinates, and seem to point to a landing zone on the surface, near one of the small enclaves.

Val directs the Eros to make a low pass over the coordinates, peering out of the window and trying to spot what conditions on the ground appear to be

The abandoned spire city seems empty. There is a signal fire burning in the old town square but you see no other movement on the ground right now either in the open or in the surrounding buildings

Val decides the best way to find out what's going on, is to head to the ground herself, and not risk the ships unnecessarily, she dons the Aegis, dives gracefully from the rear cargo platform and heads towards the old town square, watching for any movement on the ground, before flaring gently and landing near the signal fire

The Aegis is graceful, but not silent as it lands into the wide courtyard. From a building 50m away, at the end of the short street, three very skeletal slyth slither out from the threshold and into the street. Its clear they're dead.

Val lifts herself back into the air around 15m, to simply get out of their range, looking around for whoever directed them to these coordinates

The slyth zombies watch in facination as you move into the air and with a twist and a jerk a series of high caliber rounds from a hidden window blow them to bloody wreckage in the middle of the street

"Huh, so there is still intelligent life here." Val hovers back down to see who might be lurking in the window

Three slyth all in primitive compared to your standards armor emerge from the ruins of one of the nearby buildings. All are wrapped in cloth near fresh wounds, and their weapons are cottage workshop in quality rather than professional factory stamped

Val looks at them, impressed that they've held out for so long against such odds, "Hello there, I was starting to wonder if there was anyone alive down here, but here you are! I'm Val, pleased to meet you, we were refuelling in system when we heard the radio chatter and thought we'd come and take a look. Can I ask, how long has it been like this?"

The translators in your mech system convert the language. The reply back is that this world has been this way for hundreds of years according to their elders and their stories. (edited)

Val conveys her sympathies at the situation, although is a little unsure of how well the translation mechanism will be able to convey the nuances of them. She stars to ask a little about what they know about the presence of others enclaves on the planet, trying to guage an approximate living population as well as whether they have any desire for assistance or to leave this place at some point in the future?

There are rumors of a fortified enclave on the center island, and anothe city by the sea. Its possible smaller hamlets might be holding on but they havent been able to maintain any kind of communications with the larger areas.

4:02 PM

LEaving the planet for a brighter future is no doubt something they would be interested in, especially if there are other elements of the slyth empire that somehow made it through the centuries of darkness after the virus struck

Val promises to get the word out to the rest of the sector, ideally contacting the other slyth groups that exist, and her intent to come back when the ships aren't flying with such full crews, to pick up those that wish to come with her, she also mentions that if they can get the word out to other enclaves, that would be useful

9:49 AM

(I don't think there's anything to be done immediately, and I should probably focus on the task at hand! So jumping south to Shi Vashree?) (edited)

(We can mention this to the international council as well. The slyth have a few free merchants of their own, and there are some groups hanging out with empty troop transports not part of the fighting)

(Yep, absolutely, shall I draft something up and then post it after the 10 or so days have elapsed?)

(If we want, we can do it now because anyone who wants to act on it is in the middle of things anyway)

(OK, that's all posted up, shall we head south?)

(Sounds good. I’ll get a report together for it. By the end of the weekend. I brought my laptop with me)

(Superb, as ever, no rush, I know weekends are busy for you!)

Shi-Vashree is a system of four cold gas giants and a blue sun. The only solid planet in this system is a ball of ice that has Never been home to anything at all. Conditions on its surface are freezing , ranging to the extremes during what passes for the planets night cycle.

(Are there any ship signals as we emerge into system?)

(Nothing is here)

With tha absence of life in this system, Val directs the little fleet to commence scooping fuel, before preparing to push on to Alcatyl

(We've got the entire AGET fleet with us, correct?)

(I believe so, yes, I don't like the idea of leaving part of it behind with two days communication delay if something goes awry!)

(Program/int as we enter the system)

(Is this sensors, and should I apply the appropriate modifiers?)

(sensors yes, so lets use the mods we get for detection)

(15 total)

Four ships are in the system, within engagement range. The Miner's Pick, Two Etxauren Raiding Corvettes, and a repaired and rearmed Bad Magistrate, now helmed by Etxaurren sunblades and war thrall crew. The sails have been taken down, and the deck top has been covered with an armadillo shaped dome of solar absorbing canvas covered armor and supporting metal ribs. The ships here have broken off from their other operations, and are responding to the presences of your fleet by gathering together into an engagement sphere formation (initiative) (edited)

(9)

(10!)

4:37 PM

(Can I tell from our initial scans what each of the ships is armed with?)

(don't know if you would get that kind of detail. I think knowing it's two Corvettes and two heavy frigates is more realistic)

(That’s all the information I think makes sense to give )

(OK, no problem, I may be a bit slow while I look up bits and roll some dice, am I right to think we class as military vessels and therefore default to having a base CP of 5?)

4:56 PM

(And the other question I should ask before we start, is does the AOE buff from Authority extend to all ships in the fleet, or just the one Val is on, the wording is, "Directly Led NPCs..."?)

(It would be just your own bridge crew. Let’s establish what ship you’re on. Your actual combat ships are cp5. Any merchants and troop transports are cp 3, and that’s why I wanted to know what’s here )

5:01 PM

(The far trade ship and I’d say your shipyard frigate aren’t present unless you specifically want them to be but we would need to roll back trades and put build slots on hold for the other) (edited)

(Val would be aboard the Eros, the shipyard isn't off the line yet, up until this point I've been saying that the Eros and Anteros, the two heavy frigate combat ships, and the Hymenaeon, the Troop transport that we've brought to conduct ground combat ops are present, everything else is in a shipyard or doing trade runs, so I think that makes sense?)

(Yes I agree )

5:04 PM

(So we have two heavy frigates , the troop transport, and two free merchants ?)

(Just the two heavy frigates and a troop transport. The free merchants are the ones that do our trade)

5:13 PM

(Do I know what speeds I'm targeting?)

(bad mag - 0, Miner's pick - 1, raiders - 2)

1

5:16 PM

(armor is 10, 13, 12 respectively)

(all have Hardened Polyceramic Overlay as well)

(I think that's all my relevant bits! The change to 3 speed is after Emergency thruster boost is activated!)

(ok just please note current speed at the end of your turn)

(Will do, I'll write up the entire turn so that it's at least reasonably concise)

(ACs are 17, 15, 13 respectively)

5:22 PM

Bad Magistrate - AC 17 - Speed 0 - Armor 10 - HPO (-5 AP)
Miner's Pick - AC 15 - Speed 1 - Armor 13 - HPO (-5 AP)
Etxau Raider x2 - AC 13 - Armor 12 - HPO (-5 AP)

Eisheru, et al. pinned a message to this channel. 3/29/2021 5:22 PM

(do you want to do the damage calculations as well? Factoring in armor/AP/HPO?) (edited)

5:37 PM

(or are we leaving that to the other person?)

(Yep, I have been doing, I may have mis-estimated how much damage is required to kill a heavy frigate...) (edited)

1

(you have the initiative. Best of luck to you. May the dice be in your favor)

(Thanks, you too!)

5:56 PM

Val stands aboard the bridge of the Eros, broadcasting out across the fleet, "OK, we're facing unfavourable numbers, but we've got the drop on them, Hymenaeon's crew, make sure you keep out of their line of fire, we'll need you for the assault later, Anteros, lets give them all barrels. FIRE!!"

Eros: 
5CP Base + 2 From Star Captain + 4 From Volley Capacitors
Above and Beyond: Cha/Lead 13 vs DC9 for +4CP
5x Fire All Weapons
Torpedoes (3/8 Ammo)

All Torpedoes Vs Miners Pick (AP 20, reduced to 15 by HPO, bypass armour regardless)
    3x Miss
    Hit/11
    Crit/38
    Hit/18
    Hit/17
    Hit/10
    Hit/14
    Hit/10

All Plasma Vs Bad Magistrate (AP 10, Reduced to 5 by HPO, so 5 Damage reduction from remaining armour, reduction has been applied)
    8x Miss
    Hit/10
    Hit/6

Emergency Thruster Boost
Final Speed of 3

Anteros: 
5CP base + 4 From Volley Capacitors
3x Fire All Weapons
Torpedoes (5/8 Ammo)

1/2 Torpedoes Vs Extau Raider 1 (AP 20, reduced to 15 by HPO, bypass armour regardless)
    Hit/7
    Hit/8
    Hit/19

1/2 Plasma Vs Extau Raider 1  (AP 10, Reduced to 5 by HPO, so 7 Damage reduction from remaining armour, reduction has been applied)
    Hit/6
    2x Miss
    
1/2 Torpedoes Vs Extau Raider 2 (AP 20, reduced to 15 by HPO, bypass armour regardless)
    Hit/16
    2x Miss

1/2 Plasma Vs Extau Raider 2  (AP 10, Reduced to 5 by HPO, so 7 Damage reduction from remaining armour, reduction has been applied)
    3x Miss
    
Emergency Thruster Boost
Final Speed of 3

Hymenaeon: 3CP Base
Sensor Ghost: Failed, no effect


Total on Miner's Pick: 118
Total on Bad Magistrate: 16
Total on Raider 1: 40
Total on Raider 2: 16

1

5:56 PM

(That's me!)

(ty for patience, busy day with work/family)

The Miner's Pick and the Etxau Raider 1 are pockmarked with blasts and hull pieces are breaking off the pair of vessels. In a blaze of glory they unleash a vicious volley of their own on the Aphroditan fleet. After their assault the spike-drives of both ships explode and there is nothing more except debris that remains in their place. The former Cooperative vessel and the remaining Etxau Raider 2 turn their sights on the fat bellied troop transport before aiming their ships towards open space. It would appear they are setting up to escape this fight, not expecting this much firepower. They send a wave of shots as they begin to make their way towards the edge of system.

The Miner's Pick
Death Action: Finest Hour
Volley Capacitor +4 CP
Support Department: Engineering (0 CP)
Boost Engines (0 CP) - 12 v 8 - Success
Speed 1 -> 3
Fire All Guns x3 (9 CP)
Target: Eros
CPC Attacks: 21/19, 16/11, 22/11, 16/10, 19/9, miss x4 (AP 15, bypass all armor)
Total - 51 Damage

The Bad Magistrate
Support Department: Gunnery 
Fire All Guns x2 (4 CP)
Target: Hymenaeon
Torpedo Attacks: 21/23, 13/7 (AP 20, bypass all armor)
CPC Attacks: Miss x2
Total - 30 Damage

Etxau Raider 1
Death Action: Finest Hour
Volley Capacitor +4 CP
Support Department: Gunnery (0 CP)
Fire All Guns x3 (7 CP)
Fire One Weapon x1 (2 CP)
Target: Hymenaeon
Multifocal Attacks: 16/4, 17/4, 15/4, 16/4, miss x6 (AP 20, bypass all armor)
Total - 16 Damage

Etxau Raider 2 
Volley Capactior +4 CP
Support Department: Gunnery (O CP)
Fire All Guns x3 (7 CP)
Target: Hymenaeon
Multifocal Attacks: 21/2, Crit/9, 13/3, 17/4, miss x5 (AP 20, bypass all armor)
Total - 18 Damage
Boost Engines (2 CP) - 8 v 8 - Success
Speed 2 -> 4

(Please Note: If brought to 0 by the CPC Damage, it does not destroy your ship but it is considered disabled and effectively out of the fight)

(edited)

(I'm not sure why they get to do a "Blaze of Glory" according to the core rules, page 116, "If a ship is reduced to zero hit points, fighter-class hulls are instantly destroyed with all hands. Larger ships are mortally damaged. Such crippled ships can take no action and will explode within 2d6 minutes unless the chief engineer succeeds in an Int/Fix skill check against difficulty 10. On a failure, the explosion is inevitable, while on a success the ship merely becomes a burnt-out hulk with all systems destroyed. If sufficiently vast amounts of repair supplies are still intact in the hold, a determined crew might be able to jury-rig the maimed ship into temporary operation. The crucial part of that being, may take no action, my whole reason behind focusing the miner's pick, and wasting enough damage to kill another entire ship in the process was to prevent your numbers advantage from coming into play! If this is something we've changed, let me know, but I can't find any reference to it on Page 11 of the Iron Stars 3.2 book either? Edit: I've just noticed the line: Death Action: Finest hour, I presume that's what's going on here. I'll leave the rest of the post in place, so I'm not removing anything! If the bit above reads as if I sound a bit salty, it's because mechanics that subvert a player's expectation of core mechanics are generally feels bad for me, especially when it's a we're dead, fuck you move, regardless, I'll figure out what I'm taking on crisis, and do damage) (edited)

(Also, in roll20, you wrote an amendment for the 9d20 rolls, saying that it should have been +2 rather than +5, but then the miner's pick results are the ones with +5 mods, if that's correct, the two 16s are misses? And given the raiders are speed 2, and the Hymenaeon speed 0, should they not take a -2 to hit for a total of +1 rather than the +3 listed, meaning the 13 in the second batch would miss?)

(Depending on the type of enemy some of them do get that ability if the player goes first to mitigate essentially what was an alpha strike by the player. The fact that our shipyards by default get tinker 2 and fix 4 means the presence of heavy modded ships as a norm doing hundreds of damage in a volley and it has to be counter weighed by something. Especially given the essential ubiquity of volley capacitors and some of the other high efficiency combat mods. Generally this death ability if they have it only applies if the enemy formation has been essentially wiped out in turn 1, like what happened with pretty much every remnant Titan, the shaper battle moons and a few select other ships throughout game history. I’m not sure what’s up with the modifiers but I’m sure once eish is awake and has a sec to look this over we can figure it out. Let’s pause here until we get a resolution ) (edited)

5:26 AM

(We are looking at some other ways to offset this alpha strike issue such as individual ship initiative and a few other ideas are being passed around as well. We have pushed the existing ship combat past what it was designed for )

(Ok, sounds good, I'm more than happy to tweak rules around, just not keen on hidden, "On death," abilities)

(It’s something we will be stepping away from going forward )

(good morning. These crews are not your standard mooks as such they are a bit stronger and more experienced. Base attack modifier of +5. I thought i was doing math incorrectly but i realized i was looking at the speed of the Hymenaeon while targeting the Eros. Since there is was no difference in speeds because of the boost engines action the correct modifier was +5) (edited)

(the raiders did take a -2 to their attacks, hence the +3 instead of +5)

(Ok, that makes sense, thanks for the clarification!)

Eros:
Crisis to avert 1st hit (19 Dmg): Target Decalibration, can't get a target lock until resolved

19/60 HP remaining (including the 20% from Star Captain)

(edited)

(NPC ship's cant take crises)

7:49 AM

(And I know that one IS in our rules, second last paragraph of page 11)

(Sorry, hadn't seen your second message!)

(I figured based on the screenshot)

(So now I roll Int/Fix Vs DC 10 with an NPC, otherwise the Hymenaeon is lost with all hands?)

(Its either hulked, or explodes)

(7, failed)

(if its got lifeboats, the troop compliment will ditch on this planet, along with the crew)

8:00 AM

( Looks like it does)

(It does, are the drop pods able to detach and the same with the vehicles designed for deployment in space?)

(all systems are considered destroyed, so that would include the drop pods. Only the lifeboats would launch. Both planets in this system are inhospitable, so the soldiers and crew would be put into a semi drugged state once the boats launch, and can sustain themselves for a year in this way, 20 per boat)

(Ok, time to build another Hymenaeon, and then mount a rescue mission, but before then, we should finish up this space combat!)

(will get my turn done soon. In middle of mgmt meeting at work)

8:31 AM

(also you need to post Anteros action)

(Don't worry, I've not actually posted my turn yet, I was just resolving your turn, so that I knew what was going on!)

1

(my b. Just didn't want you waiting on me)

Val jumps on one of the weapons consoles, swiftly attempting to recalibrate the Eros' targeting array.

Eros: 5CP Base + 2 From Star Captain
Deal with a crisis: 8 Vs DC10, failed, no gunnery actions :(
Damage Control: 3CP: 11 Vs DC7, +4 HP to 23/60
Boost Engines: 2CP: 10 Vs DC8, +2 to Speed
Boost Engines: 2CP: 9 Vs DC8, +2 to Speed

Torpedoes (3/8 Ammo)
Final Speed of 7


Anteros: 5CP base
Fire all weapons: 3CP
All Torpedos Vs Extau Raider
2x Miss
All Plasma Vs Extau Raider
1x Miss
13/7 (AP 10, -5 APO, Reduced by 7)

Boost Engines: 2CP: 12 Vs DC8, +2 to Speed

Torpedoes (4/8 Ammo)
Final Speed of 5


Hymenaeon:
Destroyed :(

The remaining PMG and EE vessels attempt to make a break for open space, hoping to put some distance between them and the Aphroditan task force.

The Miner's Pick
Destroyed

Bad Magistrate
HP: 34/50
Support Department: Engineering (0 CP)
Boost Engines (0 CP) - Success 9 v 8
Speed 0 -> 2
Escape Combat (4 CP) - Contested Pilot Check - 13 v ?

Etxau Raider 1
Destroyed

Etxau Raider 2
HP: 17/40
Support Department: Engineering (0 CP)
Boost Engines (0 CP) - Success 12 v 8
Speed 2 -> 4
Escape Combat (4 CP) - Contested Pilot Check - 12 v ?

(If you want to pursue will need two pilot checks from you before your next turn. Don't forget to add your speed to the pilot check. You would take the best modifier from your two ship for the roll. So i think in this case it would be 2d6+3+7)

(19 and 19 on that first round of pursuit, I'll have the turn up in a few minutes, today became far busier than I'd planned!)

1

(No worires. I think we have a crisis to make a decision on resolving or not as well)

Typing furiously, in that manner hackers do in flims, Val attempts to reboot the targeting systems, hoping that turning it off and on again will rectify the problem!

Eros: 5CP Base + 2 From Star Captain
Deal with a crisis: 10 Vs DC10, passed, gunnery tracking systems restored
Fire all guns x2 (6CP)

Torpedoes Vs Bad Magistrate: (AP Ignores Armour)
2x Miss
22/19
19/16

Plasma Vs Extau Raider 2: (AP 10, -5 APO, Reduced by 7)
13/3
24/8
17/5
24/2

Torpedoes (1/8 Ammo)
Final Speed of 3


Anteros: 5CP base
Fire all guns (3CP)

Torpedoes Vs Bad Magistrate: (AP Ignores Armour)
2x Miss

Plasma Vs Extau Raider 2: (AP 10, -5 APO, Reduced by 7)
1x Miss
Crit/14

Boost Engines (2CP): 11 Vs DC8, +2 to Speed

Torpedoes (3/8 Ammo)
Final Speed of 5


Hymenaeon:
Destroyed :(

(What skill combination are you using for your deal with a crisis?)

(Int/Program, so it was at +4)

1

Six minutes after the beam of white hot plasma lances through the Etxau Raider, the ship explodes in a fiery ball. The Bad Magistrate's engines power down and the momentum carries the ship as it drifts in the direction of open space, all systems destroyed. (Etxau Raider failed the fix/int check. Bad Magistrate is basically just a ball of metal.) (edited)

With the opposing ships out of action, Val breathes a sigh of relief for the success of her first fleet engagement. Taking stock of the battle, she realises the full enormity of the loss of the Hymenaeon, although most have made it to the planets surface, they will sleep in stasis for many months, until a large enough rescue attempt can be mounted.

11:05 AM

Val looks around the bridge, assessing the damage to the Eros, which is far from superficial, realising that with their forward fleet destroyed, it may be time to take stock, send the Eros home for repairs, while the Anteros with Val onboard can join with the Galatean fleet that is undoubtedly on it's way south by now!

(Staying in the system?)

(I'm not sure, I was contemplating penning a message back to the Galatean Council, letting them know what happened and basically asking how far away they are, but I definitely want to send the Eros back for repair, so it probably makes sense to meet up with the council fleet a bit further north so that they have the intel on what systems are definitely safe to stop at. That also means I can escort the Eros back to, "Safe" space, just in case it gets hijacked on the way!)

11:33 AM

(I know that isn't a concrete, "let's do this next", I'll figure that out!) (edited)

(the Void wardens are at Shariar right now. The UNW and EP fleets are still handling the ghouls)

(I think the thing to do is to head up to Shariar for now, from there, the Eros can go to a shipyard for repair, and Val and the Anteros can either join up with the Void Warden Fleet, or pass on info and leave them to it, depending on what they want!)

(Alright. I’ll figure out downtime when I’m at a pc but there wouldn’t be any danger to the north of you )

(I've got 11 days as the shortest route?)

(That’s what I’ve got too now that I’ve seen a map)

The main Void Wardens strength has assembled at Shariar, to begin heading south to join the fight against the Etxaurren Empire. It has taken months for the fleet to be dispatched and supplied for what might be a long campaign, and as they look on, preparing for thier first coordinated move into the void, a wounded AGET fleet enters the system, both frigates in the formation damaged heavily. Looking at the manifest of ships headed south, it is noticed right away that their troop carrier is missing entirely .

12:47 PM

(I put the same in Asi's thread)

(OK, I'll respond in there!) (Auto Targeting 7/7) (9/30 Slyth)

(I know there’s a rough fleet movement set up in asi’s thread , which of those paths would you follow )

(Heading along with the bulk of the fleet to Alcatyl to help with recovering the troops please!)

(I don’t think we have a ship with space do we?)

(AGET don't, but the impression I got in Asi's thread was that VW did, perhaps I misunderstood that though?) (edited)

(*They do not have anything capable of rescuing anyone either. the best they can do is secure the system until transport can come from somewhere else)

(Ok, not a problem, I still think heading via chavvi being the direct route, as I'd like to be with the fleet fighting the Etxauren!)

Invasive Atmosphere Hostile Biosphere TL 3 Hundreds of Thousands of Inhabitants The system is centered around a single world in the habitable zone, though the atmosphere is reading as incredibly invasive. The natives on the surface have constructed some sort of energy screens around their settlement that keep the as now unknown effects of their atmosphere at bay. Hostile fauna also patrols the settlement outskirts, feasting on the current residents as well as one another depending on what is available. The local community used to be much richer, but something happened recently to crush its source of prosperity. Different factions of the community might be trying to grasp at the remaining dregs of wealth, others might try to restart the failed industry, and some might look for a new livelihood. Any group or entity thought responsible for the collapse is likely to be treated very harshly, and some locals might find profit in shifting the blame to their enemies.

(Note to future self, this scouting report is Chhavvi) Val directs the fleet to refuel, while scanning for any signals broadcast from the surface, or any evidence that the locals might have achieved space flight

Nekosmash pinned a message to this channel. 4/13/2021 7:55 AM

There is little signal traffic on the ground, and nothing to suggest they've made it into space since The Scream

As they pass over the planet, Val looks to establish how invasive the atmosphere is, and in what way, so that future expeditions might be well prepared

Dust and severe allergens seem to be able to easily pass through most filtration systems. Nothing known post scream seems to be able to stop it getting through

Val makes notes on the phenomenon, hoping that a science team may some day make use of the information in making a safe approach to the planet's surface. Val then directs the fleet to plot their spike course back to Alcatyl, and prepare to rendezvous with the rest of the fleet

(Alright, 4 days for scooping i believe, then off we are. No enemies in Alactyl space right now, but i also don't think any arrangements were made to recover any survivors)

(Yep, I haven't had time to set stuff in motion, I believe the plan was to meet up with Asi and the Adder here, before pushing further into Maysoon and Etxauren territory proper!)

(Alright. He’s finishing something on madhur and we will be along. We can all push south

(Yep, no rush!)

(We can move on, I think. This may be some time and I don't want you to wait)

(Ok, in which case I think Maysoon is the plan next, basically intending to box in the extauren as much as possible, so they won't be able to move troops around when it comes time for doing mass combat)

(Alright, I'll move this up in a moment!)

(We have a battle, so to start, the fleet disposition)

9:10 AM

Eisheru, et al. pinned a message to this channel. 4/19/2021 9:10 AM

Rolling Initiative Individually: Initiatives: Etxaurren Defense Platform - 4 Blessed Aspect - 5 Bad Magistrate - 3 Exact Change - 7 Short Change - 5

(Didn't the Bad Magistrate get turned into a useless lump of metal last time?)

(It did not explode, and since you left the system without finishing them off they emergency repaired and left. Their engineer was able to pass the fix check) (edited)

9:15 AM

(that's why on 4/1 I was being sort of pedantic about who was going to remain in the system if anyone)

(Ok, makes sense, time to blow some stuff up then! I'll get my initiatives up once I've got onto roll 20, are NPC ships modified by Dex for init, or just PC?)

(just PC)

1

(Could Val be on the Ragnarok, or would the Void Wardens want one of their captains in charge?)

(I think @Robert should be the one to weigh in on that since they're the ones who spent the money and time to build it, but to me I don't know why you'd not be leading your portion of the fleet from one of your own ships) (edited)

(Yep, that makes sense from an in world, it's one of those things with PC ships having far more options, especially with crisis, hence me asking)

9:41 AM

(Another thought I've just had, are we splitting this up into regions, or is it one fight, where we're trying multiple initiatives to prevent alpha strike, and have we done away with on death abilities, or is that something I still need to watch out for?)

(We're going to be doing individual ship initiatives, which is why the Etxaurren fleet all rolled independently. We're going to see how this goes so we're not going to worry about regions or anything like that. You won't see the finest hour again since this individual imitative should prevent the alpha strike, but you've played enough other RPG's to know that sometimes enemies don't have the same abilities as a player. I don't think you'll have an experience as frustrating as last time, however)

(Ok, perfect, and I agree, most other RPGs that's true, oddly, all the other SWN games I've played, the enemies either have access to the same options, unless there is clear indication, be that big nasty beasty, clearly TL5 technology or other similar signport, but I appreciate that can't always be the case, so good to know!)

Initiatives:
Ragnarok: 2
Aegis 1: 7
Aegis 2: 2
Beowulf: 6
Anteros: 1
Frija: 4
Good Shepard: 5
Wotan: 3
Nimbus: 7

~Bonus from Val not applied, will be added once we know where she is!~

(once we know ill throw everything in order, if we have ties since they're NPC ships on both sides we'll do a roll off)

Nimbus^ - 7 Exact Change% - 7 Aegis 1# - 7 ~~Beowulf# - 6~~ Blessed Aspect% - 5 Short Change% - 5 >Good Shepard* - 5 >Frija* - 4 ~~Etxaurren Defense Platform% - 4~~ >Anteros* - 3 >Wotan* - 3 Bad Magistrate% - 3 Aegis 2/Bulwark# - 2 Ragnarok# - 2 (edited)

Eisheru, et al. pinned a message to this channel. 4/19/2021 10:57 AM

(With Val aboard the Anteros, it's init will bump to 3 please!)

(when i got to this i think it had already been raised, but i am noting your note)

(I just made the update)

1

(Val, take control of the Wotan, Frija and Good Shepherd so you have some more ships to play with. If they die they die. I'll take control of the Ragnarok, Aegis and Bulwark (Aegis 2) and Beowulf)

(Ok, superb!)

(You also have the Nimbus in there, the LLF vessel)

(Is Grim going to run that?)

(should probably loop him in, forgot it was LLF)

( @Soren (Grim) hey buddy, you have the Nimbus in this fight as well if you want to control it)

(Yes I will. Thank you)

3

(Got a 1 for my tie roll)

(Do I need to do a tie roll?)

(yes please)

(5)

(initiative updated and set. Just waiting on neko to give us the go ahead)

(If everyone’s plugged in and ready let’s do this)

(Grim you have the honors! There is a pinned post that has the base speed, armor and AC for each ship. Remember to subtract the speed differences from your attack roll) (edited)

(Im being attacked irl by toddlers) (edited)

1

5:14 PM

(How many base command points?)

(Would be 5 since it’s a corvette/military ship)

(If someone else wants to do this turn for me. I’m not going to be able to figure it out until later and I don’t want everyone waiting)

(It’s play by post we can wait.)

1

The Nimbus activates its volley capacitors (+4 cp for gunnery) and begins its first of three strikes against the defense platform

8:45 PM

first strike - Torpedo 15/10 Fractal impact charge 21/7

8:48 PM

(-actually 16/10 and 22/7 should of been +3 not +2 to hit)

(shooting the station? you would be a +2 to attack)

8:49 PM

(both still hit)

(ok then original numbers stand)

8:49 PM

second strike - torpedo 15/11 fractal impact charge misses

8:50 PM

third strike both miss

8:50 PM

(nimbus is done)

(ok 22 total damage after armor.)

(i got 25 is my math wrong?)

(i have HPO + 13 armor. your fractal impact charge hit got reduced by 3) (edited)

(so 10+11+4)

(Yes you are right. Sorry 25)

(no problem)

(if you wanted to take the Support Department action for gunnery you sitll would have another 2CP left. 9-1-3-3 = 2. You could fire one gun once, boost engines, some other things) (edited)

(I had base 5 +4 from capacitors. For 9 total cp. The fired all weapons 3 times which is 3+3+3 for 9 of 9cp used correct?)

(yes, but the 'captain' of the npc vessel can still take the support department action. which would reduce the cost of 1 action by 2 CP.)

(Oh I see)

9:29 PM

attempting evasive maneuvers

9:29 PM

fail

(Oof! Almost! Cool taking the Fighter's turn)

9:32 PM

A fighter wing shoots out from their position. The radio waves are alight with chatter as they break off in all seemingly random directions. They begin taking shots with deadly accuracy against multiple ships in the Void Warden lead flotilla.

Exact Change Fighter Squadron
F1 / Target: Aegis 1 / AC 16 / Armor 20 + HPO / Speed 0
Volley Capacitor (+4 CP); Support Dept-Gunnery (-2 CP Action Cost); Fire One Weapon x4 (-6 CP); Target System-Weapon (-3) 
(AP 20) 19/17; Misss x2; 16/16; Miss

F2 / Target: Aegis 2 / AC 16 / Armor 20 + HPO / Speed 0
Volley Capacitor (+4 CP); Support Dept-Gunnery (-2 CP Action Cost); Fire One Weapon x4 (-6 CP); Target System-Weapon (-3 CP)
(AP 20) crit/31; 17/21; Miss x3

F3/ Target: Good Shepherd / AC 17 / Armor 10 / Speed 0
Volley Capacitor (+4 CP); Support Dept-Gunnery (-2 CP Action Cost); Fire One Weapon x4 (-6 CP); Target System-Weapon (-3 CP)
(AP 20) Miss x3; crit/23; Miss

F4/ Target: Beowulf / AC 17 / Armor 15 / Speed 0
Volley Capacitor (+4 CP); Support Dept-Gunnery (-2 CP Action Cost); Fire One Weapon x4 (-6 CP); Target System-Weapon (-3 CP)
(AP 20) Miss; crit/19; 17/23; Miss x2

F5/ Target: Frija / AC 17 / Armor 15 / Speed 0
Volley Capacitor (+4 CP); Support Dept-Gunnery (-2 CP Action Cost); Fire One Weapon x4 (-6 CP); Target System-Weapon (-3 CP)
(AP 20) Miss x5

(edited)

(after damage its your turn with the Aegis 1 and the Beowulf, Rob)

(Can you do damage before armour with AP in future please I want to be sure it's calculated right)

2

10:10 PM

(Ill do my turn in a few hours still at work)

(i updated to as you requested)

(thx bby)

1

The VW fleet, weathering the storm of torpedoes to varying degrees, powers up it's weapons to strike back. Aegis and Beowulf, with some of the more experienced crews, are ready before their comrades. Xu'Gannara, from the bridge of the Ragnarok, sends out a fleetwide message. "Focus on the station, it's sending targeting data to the rest of the enemy fleet. Once that's been taken care of, the rest of the fleet won't be able to pick us off as accurately as those fighters just did. Anything lacking penetration, focus on the incoming fighter wings. Good luck."

Beowulf:
Engaging Volley Capacitors for 4CP Gunnery
Support Department for Gunnery for -2CP on one action
Boost Engines for 2CP, 10v8 Success, Speed set to 2 until next turn
Fire All Guns x 3 for 7CP
Firing 3 x Spinal Beam Cannon at EDP (Speed Diff 2)
  3 x Miss
Firing 3 x Plasma Cannon at Short Change (Speed Diff 2)
  AP10 Crit/25 2 x Miss

Aegis:
Engaging Volley Capacitors for 4CP Gunnery
Support Department for Gunnery for -2CP on one action
Sensor Ghost for 2CP, 13, AC raised to 17 until next turn
Fire All Guns x 3 for 7CP
Firing 9 x Spinal Beam Cannon at EDP (Speed Diff 0)
  AP15 16/15 21/18 18/13 21/22 19/22 19/14 3 x Miss

11:56 PM

(Strongly suggest knocking out the platform ASAP, +2 to attack rolls is a massive bonus, it should be struggling after that barrage) (edited)

(hot 85 damage after armor)

The Short Change squadron is lanced by several well placed plasma beams. The squadron is reduced to 60% efficacy. Meanwhile the defensive platform sitting in orbit over Maysoon is rocked by the massive onslaught made by the Aegis. It's beam cannons ripping holes through the station's thick armor plating. Lights around the station begin failing and explosions can be seen emanating from the structure (edited)

6:58 AM

(Two fighters destroyed a third is badly damaged, 85 damage on the station) (edited)

The Short Change fighter squadron with it's reduced numbers all converge on the wounded Beowulf. Their Multifocal Lasers punching into the armor of the Heavy Frigate hoping to take it out of the fight. (20 damage I believe destroys it with the 42 that it had already taken) The Blessed Aspect of Huitzilopochtli, the mighty cruiser of the Etxaurren Empire turns to bring its massive Spike Inversion Projectors to bear against the Good Shepherd and the Frija. The heavy cruiser sized weaponry scoring some solid hits on the two frigates.

Short Change - Fighter Squadron
F1 / Target: Beowulf / AC 17 / Armor 15 / Speed 2
Base (5 CP); Volley Capacitor (+4 CP); Support Dept-Gunnery (-2 CP Action Cost); Fire One Weapon x5 (-8 CP)
(AP 20): Miss x3, 17/3, Miss

F2 / Target: Beowulf / AC 17 / Armor 15 / Speed 2
Base (5 CP); Volley Capacitor (+4 CP); Support Dept-Gunnery (-2 CP Action Cost); Fire One Weapon x5 (-8 CP)
(AP 20): Miss, 18/5, Miss x2, 20/5

F3 / Target: Beowulf / AC 17 / Armor 15 / Speed 2
Base (5 CP); Volley Capacitor (+4 CP); Support Dept-Gunnery (-2 CP Action Cost); Fire One Weapon x5 (-8 CP)
(AP 20): 18/4, Miss, 17/3, Miss x2

F4 / Destroyed
F5 / Destroyed

Blessed Aspect of Huitzilopochtli - Fleet Cruiser
Target: Good Shepherd / AC 17 / Armor 10 / Speed 0
Base (5 CP); Volley Capacitor (+4 CP); Support Dept-Gunnery (-2 CP Action Cost); Fire All Guns x2 (-4 CP) 
SIP - (AP 15) 23/13, 23/6, Miss x2
Multifocal - (AP 20) Miss, 21/2, Miss, 24,2

Target: Frija / AC 17 / Armor 15 / Speed 0
Fire All Guns (-3 CP); Fire On Weapon (SIP) (-2 CP)
SIP - (AP 15) 18/15, Miss x2
Multifocal - (AP 20) 23/5, Miss

(edited)

8:09 AM

(Once you do your maffs it will be Val's turn in the Good Shepherd and the Frija)

(Ok, I'll hopefully get the turn up in the next hour or so, just need to deal with the food thing...)

1

(you got time buddy. I was 5pts shy of taking out the good shepherd)

(Is the defense platform destroyed? If the Nimbus did 25 and the Beowulf and Aegis did 85 that should be enough right?)

2:25 PM

(Or is that 85 counting the 25?)

(Also, a quick query from me, if we were to want a ship to try to leave combat due to severe damage, as the Good Shepherd is, do we use the standard rules for gaining and loosing points of escape, and if so, would the opposed role be against the fastest ships in their fleet? Alternatively, would there be some way to use currently engaged ships to prevent a pursuit, and so allow a ship to escape unscathed?)

(You are correct, EDP is destroyed! Rob did 85 alone.) (As far as your questions about leaving combat, standard Escape Combat action would apply. RAW says that opposed roll would be with highest speed value. No other way to prevent a pursuit except destroying pursuers. I do not have to pursue but you won't know if i do or not until after you determine your actions) (edited)

(Yep, that's fine, just wanted to check, in which case, I think the order might just be for all power to the guns, so to speak!)

(Since the EDP is destroyed, you have Anteros and Wotan as well to act)

(Ok, sounds good, I'm just compiling my post!)

1

(EDP has had all systems destroyed but did not explode. Rolled 11v10 on the fix/int check) (edited)

3:05 PM

(And Rob I updated my attacks to take out the +2 bonus for Fleet Targeting Array. 2 attacks ended up being misses, but still managed to get 20 damage in on the Beowulf.) (edited)

(Eish, could I get an opposed Int/Program for Defeat ECM vs the Blessed Aspect of Huitzilopochtli please!)

1

(7)

(Also 7, does aggressor or defender win that?)

(Which ship is doing the thing?)

(Anteros, Val herself) (edited)

(Tie goes to player in this case)

1

The Frija and the Wotan open fire on the Bad Magistrate, hoping their combined plasma fire will be enough to put a stop to the stolen vessel's tirade. Meanwhile, Valentina aboard the Anteros alongside the Good Shepherd pounce on the Blessed Aspect of Huitzilopochtli, as Val commands all power to the guns from the captain's chair, she hopes it will be enough to silence the thunder of the weapons it brings to bear.

# Good Shepard: 5CP Base
HP: 4/50
Armour: 10
Speed: 0
3x Torpedoes

5CP Base
+4CP Volley Capacitors
+2CP Support Department Gunnery

<Fire all guns vs Blessed Aspect of Huitzilopochtli x3>
(AP20) 21/17, 16/17, 7x Miss
Reduced to 13 and 13 Damage through
<Total: 26>

Boost Engines: 9 Vs 8, Success

Final Speed: 2

# Frija:
HP: 30/50
Armour: 15
Speed: 0
3x Plasma

5CP Base
+4CP Volley Capacitors
+2CP Support Department Gunnery

<Fire all guns vs Bad Magistrate x3>
(AP10) 18/10, 18/15 , 7x Miss
Reduced to 5 and 10 Damage Through
<Total: 15>

Boost Engines: 7 Vs 8, Fail

# Wotan:
HP: 50/50
Armour: 15
Speed:0
3x Plasma

5CP Base
+4CP Volley Capacitors
+2CP Support Department Gunnery

<Fire all guns vs Bad Magistrate x3>
(AP10) crit/28, 17/12, 22/14, 19/7, 21/14, 4x Miss
Reduced to 23, 7, 9, 2 and 9
<Total: 50>

Boost Engines: 9 Vs 8, Success
Final Speed: 2

# Anteros:
HP: 60/50
Armour: 10
Speed: 1
2x Plasma, 2x Torpedoes

5CP Base
+4CP Volley Capacitors
+2CP Star Captain
+2CP Support Department Gunnery

Attack Mod: +3 Base, +3 From Authority, -1 Speed Dif: Total +5

<Fire all Plasma vs Blessed Aspect of Huitzilopochtli x3>
(AP10) crit/25, 19/8, 17/5, 12/11, 13/11, 18/12 0x Miss
Reduced to 11, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0
<Total: 11>

<Fire all Torpedoes vs Blessed Aspect of Huitzilopochtli x3>
(AP20) 18/11, 18/11, 17/17, 20/12, 2x Miss
Reduced to 7, 7, 13, 8
<Total: 35>


Damage to Bad Magistraite: 65
Damage to Blessed Aspect of Huitzilopochtli: 72

(Edit: Removed Defeat ECM Per my conversation with Eish, realising I couldn't do that with Val) (edited)

(both ships have all systems destroyed but not exploded)

(Ok, superb!)

(rob your turn with Bulwark and Ragnarok, lets pop those fighters!)

(Is it just the fighters left?)

(yes 2 squadrons they each have a pool of health. One thing to attack.) (edited)

(lol almost all my guns are clumsy im not sure I can even hit the fighters) (edited)

(It’s -4 to fighter hulls on top of whatever other modifiers are relevant)

(Im confused, where is that?)

(Because if it’s -4 plus the speed difference, I’m not getting through the fighter ac)

(it you are using a weapon with the clumsy tag.)

10:49 PM

(torpedos and fractal Impact Charge don't have that tag)

The Ragnarok, lacking any major targets to fire at, does it's level best to take out the fighter wings plaguing it's smaller brethren. The Bulwark follows suite, hoping to land a lucky shot or two on the much faster fighter craft.

Ragnarok:
Engaging Volley Capacitors for 4CP Gunnery
Supporting Department for Gunnery for -2CP on one action
Boost Engines for 2CP, 5v8 Failure
Fire All Guns x 3 for 7CP
Firing 3 x Flak Cannon at Exact Change Fighter Squadron
  3 x Miss
Firing 9 x Vortex Tunnel Inducer at Exact Change Fighter Squadron
  AP20 CRIT/34 8 x Miss

Bulwark:
Engaging Volley Capavitors for 4CP Gunnery
Supporting Department for Gunnery for -2CP on one action
Fire All Guns x 3 for 7CP
Fire One Gun for 2CP
Firing 5 x Spinal Beam Cannon at Exact Change Fighter Squadron
  AP15 CRIT/30 4 x Miss
Firing 5 x Spinal Beam Cannon at Spare Change Fighter Squadron
  AP15 CRIT/30 4 x Miss

10:51 PM

(Yeah the problem for me was none of my guns are good at hitting fighters, but I may have gotten enough crits to not worry about that)

(that you did! All fighters are toast!)

The capital weaponry completely vaporizes most of the bombers. A few try to make a suicide run at the battleship. Before it can sunder the Void Warden capital ship a massive beam lances the remaining bombers on their deadly run. The already battered fighter wing is finished off by the expert gunnery department of the cruiser.

With the destruction of the Beowulf and heavy damage taken by almost every other Void Warden warship, Xu'Gannara calls a general withdrawal to Actalyl to link up with the Paivatar for repairs. The Ragnarok itself will remain in system with the Wotan for support for the next day to patrol the system and rescue any survivors. They will return to Actalyl after 24 hours.

(What about the enemy station and ships that didn’t explode. Do we want to do anything to prevent the enemy from fixing them when we leave?)

(Any chance we can fix them up enough to jump them to Actalyl with a capital sized workshop Neko? If no, I say we detonate them)

(It would be cool if we could send the Bad Magistrate back to the NMC! When all systems are destroyed, does that also assume that anyone who didn't get to a life pod is deceased? Or would we be fighting boarding actions before being able to attempt to repair stuff up?)

5:09 AM

(But yes, knowing that they have the capability to repair and recrew vessels, I agree with detonating anything we can't either repair or tow)

(a ship can be jury rigged to make a short journey. The stations cannot be moved)

6:02 AM

(and no it doesn't mean that the crew is deceased. If you want to take control of them you will need to clear the remaining crew)

6:03 AM

(also need a fix/int check vs 10 for the Beowulf to see it it exploded)

(A ship would need to be moved with a shiptender mount. PC's and some expert generally enemy NPC crews could try to jury rig a vessel for a short journey. A station cannot be moved. There would be percentages of crew alive in each vessel that would need to be cleared in a conventional boarding action if you're trying for prize vessels)

7:27 AM

(the fact they're packed with sunblades makes this a very high risk/low reward kind of ordeal)

(I'm not sending in VW marines to get slaughtered. I vote offer them a surrender then destroy the boats. 7 on the explosion roll so Beowulf is gone.)

Their lord has promised them a glorious afterlife for dying in battle. They commend you on an honorable fight, and will see you in the undying realm, someday, where you can feast like the nationless men at arms all warriors become after death.

(I also don’t feel like getting LLF folks slaughtered. They refused surrender. To Valhalla with them)

(there would be Etxaurren on the ground though, as they've enslaved the colony that was here)

(Yep, I think the ships go boom, then we deal with the troops on the ground when we have allied troops available to conduct a landing! I would suggest that we leave the undamaged part of the fleet here so that the Etxauren cannot quickly regain superiority here)

(The NMC is sending a task force to reinforce you as well)

6:38 PM

(They’re a couple game weeks out

(How did we wanna split this up Asi?)

(As the Anteros was undamaged, Val would likely have stayed in system, especially if we are yet to destroy or neutralise the Etxauren vessels)

(Nimbus is also in damaged and can stay)

(I;ve got Nimbus and Anteros staying at Maysoon at the moment, with it sounds like everyone else withdrawing to Actayl to repair and meet up with the NMC task force)

1

While they are resting at the base camp being set up, Grim reaches out to Valentina telepathically Valentina, this is Grim. I believe we have a mutual friend on Tece by the name of Octavian. I wanted to let you know I joined the family and I am part of house Octavian.

3

Val cocks her head for a moment, feeling odd as the voice in her head is no longer just her own. Grimm, old friend, nice to hear from you, it's been a while since I heard from the family, but I'm glad to hear you took the same path I chose to! Did the family send you down here or are you here of your own volition?

I am here if my own volition. The family gives me total autonomy, they just ask I contribute to the families benefit. Such as the medical facilities I’ve been building. They let me help people without charging them while also allowing us to collect blood without the loss of life.

I'm glad to here it, I have likewise been building up hospitals under the AGET banner, I'll make sure you're on their list of authorised personnel, if you'd like, in case you ever fancy a drink! I've also been undertaking some research into synthetic bloods, although that's probably a conversation best had while not running a mission, and not in present company!

(Alright, well, now that we're in safer territory i am good for whatever

(I'll get a post up with what Val's doing next shortly, but I wanted to do a linking post first!) Some days after the battle over Brizeno, Val finds herself back in her office atop the AGET's building on Heras. She carefully places the macahuitl recovered from Maysoon in a glass case, and placing a small brass plaque below it's stand, commemorating those who died in the war against the Etxauren Empire and the accursed Phenmo Mining Guild, and silently hoping that the numbers lost in the war to come can be kept low, but fearing they may not. She slumps back into the chair, ready to find out what the administrative capacity of the Guild has been up to in her time away, reading over the many reports of one trade venture or another, alongside some of the more philanthropic ventures in education and uplift that they are trying to support. Shortly, the reports from the Galatean Council come to the fore, first those on the end of the war against the Ghoul King, the assault by forces above and on the surface of Rana, before reaching the details of the final confrontation against the Still Lady. She reads with gratitude at the headline of the Still Lady's defeat, then growing horror of how Dai fell, trying to defend the freedom of her people, and her faith against those who might try to claim godhood for their own gain. Despite the glorious nature of her demise, the loss of Dai struck Val with a weight she didn't expect. One way or another, Val had expected that Daitrig would live a long life, perhaps not as long as Val's own unnaturally lengthened life, but long and rewarding life, promoting the work of the Paragons, with the fire of Ognyena burning in her heart. Val remembers back to the early days of the Protectorate, the town hall on Heras where it's members held heated debates, over which friendships were never threatened, but the debates raged because of strongly held views on the fragile future that the single planet, constantly at war with itself, and how peace might be found. With fondness, she remembers Dai's unerring devotion to peacefully uniting the Khan's and how successful that proved to be, providing Heras with a stable home, and a strong footing to begin to reach back out into the stars. As she reaches the end of the report from the Galatean council, she reads that Dai's body has been cremated, maybe not as peacefully as she would like to imagine, but none the less, having her ashes scattered on Heras is an end that seems fitting for a Paragon of the Living Flame.

5

Level 10 -> 11

HP: 75 -> 86

Stab -1 -> 1 (3SP)

2SP Banked

(Take a re roll token for that)

2

(Just didn’t want to step on toes. I know you said there was another one coming

(Yep, there is, it's just taking me a while to write them because I've just started a new job, and it's the moving house time of year, thanks for being patient, and thanks for the Re-Roll token!)

(no worries!)