Iron Stars - venser

"Alright space rats! Mission time, lets get moving!" the flight deck commander shouts. The Trivedi Cloud orbital platform is an ancient pattern by human standards. Large, heavily armored, and spacious inside, usually things are quiet. Most of the station has barely been developed outside of the critical civilian and military interests. Today, the dockyard is busier than ever, with the small UNW main fleet preparing for an exercise in force into the former shaper territories.

3:35 PM

"Venser! " followed by some other names of other spacers "Your assignments have just come in. You're going to be aboard the Cornelius Hardt for this one. Come see me when you've got your kit together!" (edited)

6

"Ahhh just like home..." Venser takes a deep breath, which he immediately regrets, smelling nothing but cold steel and engine fumes. He has his gear spread out on a table in various leather pouches and satchels and slowly disperses it evenfully. Clips them all to himself in specific places, runs his hand through his hair and spins his revolver in one hand. Flicks it open to check for six slugs, snaps it closed and slides it into its holster. He adjusts his leather jacket and begins to walk at pace through the crowd to the officer barking orders. "Venser, present." As he puts one hand in the air.

"Very good. Alright, well, you're here, so is the rest of the crew. Here's your pass, and your requisition chit for meals on board and all that stuff. Captain will brief you once you clear dock, and additional orders come in

Venser surveys the area critically. (Can I get a brief layout of my surroundings? Are there several shuttle lining the edge of the dock? Am I expected to board one of them?) (edited)

(The corvette itself is in dock with its ramp down)

9:05 AM

(Most of the fleet has been under repair since the last big fight)

"Excellent. Good luck commander." Venser takes the pass and chit, pockets them on the inside of his jacket and works his way towards the corvette's ramp.

Taking stock of the crew as he goes.

The crew prepares to board, you included. The ship is a tough vessel named for a UNW hero who died a bit foolishly and too soon. Armed with a torpedo launcher and well appointed with internal quality of life fittings , the Cornelius Hardt is one of the better ships to be serving upon in the general navy opinion. Sirens begin to chime as the docking bay counts down from five minutes when the doors open to space. Tools and supplies are being ferried off the deck and armored shutters begin closing over windows

Huh 'Cornelius Hardt' could be a lot worse. As everyone prepares to board Venser throws out a general cautionairy "Is everyone good to go?"

It seems like they are, and you’re all called to the bridge for a captains address before the ship takes off for its destination. The 30 strong crew packs in as best they can with the captain standing at the front of the group. He raps his parade staff against the ground three times to call everyone to attention

8:10 PM

“Alright everyone. Quiet down. Command is trusting us with a routine patrol. We are going to ahliah first. It’s close by but the natives where aren’t exactly our friends. Thankfully none of them can throw a spear into space. We are just going to make sure no shaper splinters made it this close to our home. After that we make a lap down the eastern side of the UNW territories , before heading home. I’d expect to be in space for a couple weeks if there aren’t any complications”

(What role am I meant to be taking on this expedition?)

(What would you like to do?)

(It's an intro mission, and I didn't have any strong opinions either way, just want you to do whats interesting)

As the crew begins boarding, there is a small squeal as the airlock doors open, and a new figure enters the dockyard. @Deleted User speaks with the deck chief, and the captain is pulled aside. The conversation continues for a few moments as Proceus hands over the papers from the academy showing he has been assigned to support the crew. "Ah, a psychic. We could use whatever talents you have, space is dangerous and we haven't seen the last of trouble. We have another somewhat new sailor. Meet Venser, you two keep an eye on each other for the trip. We're all a family on my vessel. Get aboard, we're setting out in a few minutes"

Proceus walks toward venser and shakes his hand. “Pleasure to meet you! Let’s hope for a safe journey”

"I couldn't agree more captain." Venser returns the greeting gesturing Proceus to walk with him up the ramp into the corvette. "So you're a psychic? Any particular proficiencies or skills?"

12:18 PM

(Thanks Neko, sorry I'm just not use to having this much freedom, cool to have someone along with me! Description and bio for Venser is in roll20.)

“Well, I didn’t have much time to train, which is one of the reasons I’m here. I’m an electrokinetic, and can use conduit without effort , though thats all I can do for now”

"Interesting..." Venser analyses Proceus for a moment and commits a point of effort to establish level-0 telepathic contact.

(Why?)

(Sorry

fun. And I've never done this before.)

(Me either)

12:32 PM

(So what disciplines do you have?)

(Telekinesis and telepathic, both at 0)

(Those are fun, especially telekinetic armory. One I want is quintessential reconstruction, of biopsionics) (edited)

(telekinetic armory made no sense to me, what is it meant to look like?)

(You can make either armor or a laser pistol out of force)

(Ooo I just read quintessential reconstruction, sounds awesome. You're like Vulkan! Or Deadpool)

(Yup!)

(Another cool one is a lvl 4 precog technique, that prevents you from dieing for like 5 minutes)

(The contact would give Venser a shallow impression of whatever Proceus is feeling, summed up in one word)

(excited)

Venser's face breaks into a smile "Exciting!" gently smacking Proceus on the shoulder and walking deeper into the Corvette

Proceus follows suit, viewing the surroundings as he goes

There is a short burst of a siren, announcing two minutes until the Cornelius Hardt departs, first jump a short system away. The captain calls for the outside hatches to be sealed. (Venser did we ever decide what department you'd like to work in?)

(Nope, but I have some skill in piloting and fixing, is there some sort of dedicated role for psykers?)

(And what’s my job?)

(Not really a dedicated role but there will be some planetside work when we get places, jsut trying to get a feel for you guys)

(Yes sorry for the indecision. If they need a co pilot I'm here, otherwise I'll be sitting tight until we get there, probably brushing up on history since I'm still pretty fresh from cryo.)

(Id probably be practicing electrokinesis)

Aliah is one day of travel away from your current location. The Jademane are natives, who are all latently psychic- though their individual powers are very weak. They have had a rocky relationship with the UNW, and humans have not set foot on the planet in some time. The last time there was an interaction, Cyrus Adonis, a now disgraced (and killed) 'warlord' destroyed large swathes of forest in the hunt for a fugitive hiding out here. The Jademane feel pain as their planet feels pain, and the casual disregard for the safety of the inhabitants caused anti-UNW riots, and the burning of the small embassy left there- though the staff was evacuated safely. the defeat of the shapers changes things, and President Kincaid has requested that if things appear safe, some chance at negotiations be started again

7:42 AM

(there's a downtime activity handout on the roll20, if you want to work on a language while in transit, or train a skill you have a -1 in, take a look at the sheet and let me know)

(I want to attempt weapon modification)

(Alright, the ship does have a workshop. You can maintain your fix level in mods, so anything from page 91 that you’ve got the fix to install, you can spend the day working on)

(I have fix-1 if you need help)

(Yeah, I have fix lvl 0)

(How do I help?)

(You’d just spend the day assisting him , which one did you want to make Proceus?)

(Bubble seal, as i already have infinite ammo)

(Isn't that just for armour?)

(It’s for armor but you can mod armor as well)

(Oh well, I have no armor)

10:05 AM

(How bout high efficiency)

(So I can put in any Fix-1 mods and it will take a week, if I do nothing but that it halves the time, but if I have a helper with at least Fix-0 i.e. you it further halves the time, meaning we need 1.75 days assuming you can afford any credit requirements.)

10:13 AM

(I would put a customised mod in my revolver but it needs 1000 credits and I have 100)

(Bro, i’m broke. Thats why I came here)

10:13 AM

(I got 480 credits)

(whelp, high efficiency apparently costs 5 times the device's normal cost)

(Any ways to make money?like sweeping and stuff?)

(

)

(Gotta pay the bills)

(Ok I will work on my 'know' skill by reading up on UNW history using my compad, takes 90 days but I'll make a start)

(Oi, I’l learn sylth)

(You get credits for doing missions. You’ll get them at the end)

(Ok)

The ship exits spike space at the edge of Aliah system space , and the shattered moon is the first thing you see- aside from the swirling green planet below you. The largest pieces and large bunches of potential meteors were psychically moved out of dangerous orbits by precious UNW visitors two years ago. It has been just over a full year now since anti UNW Violence. No one has set foot on the surface since then. The captain calls you both to the bridge

(Do i say that he heads to the bridge?)

(You don’t necessarily have to. Just setting things up. I try not to make your characters do anything without you though)

Alright

Venser makes his way to the bridge "Oh yeh Silvano and Valeria, just finished reading about this, that's some powerful telekinesis."

(I was wondering, as this is an academy ship, is it possible to leech of their lessons? Like practice my psychic skills)

"What they accomplished was something incredible. We're here now because we've got a bit of an assignment where two skilled psychics such as yourself could come in handy, and I'm relieved the both of you are here. The Jademane as you know have rebuffed any kind of contact for about a year now. News of the shaper's defeat is something they'd forgive trespassing the surface of their planet over, and who knows, it might even re-open negotiations. Having a system this close to Gudrun that we don't have a presence in is dangerous. Forced integration was something we debated in the council several times, and really, in my opinion we just got lucky the shapers never made it this far. Anyway, we have a shuttle that can get you down to the surface, close enough to their village without you getting observed. It's about a day's walk from there. We will have an armed extraction team standing by if the native's remain unfriendly, but the news you bring...I think a lot is going to be forgiven"

Proceus agrees to go down, as he’s been itching to learn about their plants and healing skills

"Are we allowed our weapons?"

(Thanks for asking that)

(Hey I'm not going anywhere without my hand cannon

) (edited)

(Me either, though I found a cool loophole. I can get unlimited ammo on energy weapons ciz I can charge the A type cells)

(Yeh I read that, very cool. I enjoy the idea of "Gotta reload" electricity pulses from hand to laser pistol and it whirs to life "Done.")

"You're permitted weapons for this yes, and you can each requisition some woven armor from the ships armory. I would caution you against using your weapons as a way to open talks with the natives, however"

(With a laser rifle it’d be like unlimited cover fire)

11:42 AM

After the briefing, Proceus heads to the shuttle bay (edited)

"I appreciate the requisition offer but I'm good. I think approaching them unarmoured might give me a better chance, plus I can shield myself if things get nasty." (I have the ironhide focus and am flavoring it as 'telekinetic shielding' like the description says.)

(I dont, so i guess ill just hide behind you)

"I'll leave my grenades and knives here though, that doesn't bode well..."

11:45 AM

(lol, 16 base AC)

(How many weapons you got?)

(Revolver, stun baton - non lethal so I'm taking that, plus 4 knives and 2 grenades)

(I wonder if i can charge that baton?)

(To quote 'Stun batons trickle-charge from normal movement and will not run out of electrical energy under normal use conditions.')

11:49 AM

(But I appreciate the thought buddy)

(No prob)

Venser stores his grenades and knives in his storage locker, holsters the revolver and stun baton and joins Proceus at the shuttle bay. (edited)

Proceus looks at him, and feels a little bare with just his laser pistol.

"Do you want a knife? I can get you a knife."

“Nah, I’m good. I was just thinking about a custom weapon prospect”

"You'll have to tell me more once we're done with this!"

“Trust me, I will”

The black matte finished shuttle rests on the expedition deck of the Cornelius Hardt, the last of the deck crew finishing the work of detaching cables and fueling lines from her belly. The pilot steps in to the armored front compartment with a nod to both of you, and begins running down the necessary checks with the deck chief. The rear ramp of the shuttle is lowered, and the bay lights are on. A small countdown from five minutes begins to play out on the overhead status board, letting deck crew know to head to designated areas for the hangar door opening.

"After you." Venser warmly gestures to the ramp (edited)

Proceus walks into the shuttle and takes a seat, using the time to brush up on his sylth

Venser follows suit

The ramp shuts behind you, the sole passengers on this trip down to the surface. The pilot is separated by a solid compartment, but a window does open to allow you to speak with him if you need to. there is a lurch, as the countdown ends, and the hangar bay doors open. Mag-locks on the landing skids release, and the small ship heads down toward the surface of the planet. Passing through micrometeor particles and other hazards - enough to keep your mothership back, the nimble landing craft makes re-entry. The flames burn away to reveal a world of thick emerald rivers, and a seemingly endless spread of jungle. A large scar in the land 300km to the south of its only settlement is slowly healing with new growth, and a large crater near the northern pole of the planet is likewise becoming a natural basin for the first water loving plants. Picking a spot along a riverbed, 20km out from the village, and low enough to not be seen, the craft hovers, ramp lowering. The pilot seems to be unwilling to land in the mud

Proceus unwillingly steps toward the ramp and jumps into the mud with a splurch. He then walks out of it and waits for venser.(Cuz ur my meat shield)

The forest ahead of you is dominated by leafy trees with expansive canopies , a hundred meters tall at least. The trunks are thick but it also means there is a large amount of space between them. Dim sunlight looks to be getting through, enough to see in daylight hours. The calls of exotic birds and other animals echo strangely through them

Proceus walks forward, trying to scout ahead for any danger

The immediate area appears clear. The sound of the shuttle engines seems to have driven off any of the wildlife that would normally come to investigate. It is already a black dot against a beautiful azure sky.

Venser joins Proceus, hand hovering above his holster for comfort. "So we know which way we're going, right?"

(Btw Neko I've added 2 more goals to my sheet)

(Alrighty, and yes the ship is providing navigation help since they're essentially acting as a GPS for you right now)

8:24 AM

(so you know the general heading you need to walk in)

(So where? South, east?)

(In any case) Venser begins trapsing off in the direction of the settlement.

Proceus follows him, looking around nervously

(notice/wis from both of you)

(1/+1)

(I don't see your roll )

(I thiught you wanted mods)

(try now, your sheet was in edit mode)

(Roll with what die?)

(if you click 'notice' on the sheet, it will ask what attribute you want to roll it with, select wisdom)

(I got 4 total)

9:24 AM

(I didn't know my sheet was in edit mode, got it now I'll use that in future ty)

(alright, just want to see what Proceus gets)

1

(9)

A thin fog begins to roll in, Proceus barely makes the forms of tall figures watching from deep within the jungle, though they vanish so quickly, it stands to reason they might not have been there at all

Proceus begins to worry, though he continued down the path with a hand on his pistol.

"Did you see something?"

“Yeah, I thought I saw two silhouettes”

"Well I think we've found the natives." Venser still slowly moving forward calls out "Hello? Jademane? We're agents of Silvano and Valeria, we wish to talk!"

There is the sound of rustling wind through the vines is the only reply, and the figure, if there was one there, is gone now. The animals have likewise all gone quiet

Proceus continues through the fog, hoping that whoever is there is friendly

Venser as well.

Something glints against a nearby tree as you begin walking into the forest, through the fog. it is metallic, and looks like it once belonged to a piece of armor. Something is written on it, but it is too hard to make out what it says without getting closer

(Is it possible to bring it closer to me with telekinesis?)

(its light enough for you to lift with your current skill level)

(I'd like to commit 1 effort for the scene to pull it towards me slowly)

The shard looks like it was part of a shoulder pad for power armor once. The inscription on it is biblical, in a sense. Wrath is the tool of the righteous man There is more, but it must have been on the larger piece of armor this was torn off of. There is suddenly a large gust of air... "You're trespassing, humans" a rich voice says from behind you. It sounds close enough to be just out of reach

Proceus slowly turns around, trying to find the source of the voice

I'll keep my eyes peeled in the direction we were already facing, maintaining the hovering piece of armour, and getting back to back with Proceus

Before Proceus, a large, eight foot tall Jademane shaman stands just out of arms reach. His skin is covered with furs and woven garments underneath, and he carries a long spear made of somewhat modern looking materials- gifts from a long past delegation from Gudrun. The spear is held point up (not pointed at you, using it like a walking stick almost) "Humans on Aliah. It was a matter of time" he says, with something like prophetic certainty

“We mean no harm” says Proceus. “We have come bearing news and a proposition”

Venser gently floats the piece of armour back to its origin and turns.

"They must be important for you to risk coming back to this planet. " he is quiet for several long seconds, where it feels like an unnatural break in the conversation. "You would accompany me to the village? What you have to say, important or not, should be heard by all the Jademane, and heard at the same time"

"Of course, very good. Are you the 'leader'?"

"I am someone with a voice that makes decisions, but not the only one. I want them to hear this...news....from you at the same time, not colored by me or my thoughts beforehand. This is acceptable to you both?"

Proceus agrees, as he sees no problem with the proposal

(Can I commit and effort for the day to make telepathic contact)

(Whats your max effort?)

(Sorry I'm just real paranoid)

(Agreed though)

(2 I've used 1 for the day and 1 for the scene now)

(Dang, none for combat) (edited)

(You can use the lvl 0, he doesnt get a save since its shallow, but you can get his mental state)

(Eh I can't do much with psionics in combat yet, plus I'll still have an effort after this scene)

12:09 PM

(Yes I'd like to see what I can gleam) (edited)

(Then it’s like murder)

12:10 PM

(Lol)

He is wary of this meeting, and seems to hold as much caution towards you, as you of him

(Good enough for me)

12:12 PM

"Perfectly acceptable, lead the way."

The fog around you seems to swirl, as you begin walking, and you get the sense you are passing the surrounding terrain just a bit too quickly. "Surely you have some questions for me. I have some of you, and I'm willing to discuss other matters until we arrive, if you'd like"

2:29 PM

(if you dont want to we can just move on, but he might have some good info about the village for you to report back)

“I’m willing to talk” says Proceus

"Do you know anything about the fate of Malak Al-Muta? he was a human man who had tried to mine the metals of this world, even when we had tried to stop him. The UNW was looking for him. The land has just begun to recover"

(Do we know about him?)

(Theres some stuff in the UNW history handouts, but for purposes of moving the thread along, he was killed on the planet Maintaine. You guys actually found a shard of his power armor a minute ago, from when he was driven off this planet and went into running/hiding) (edited)

(Can I later go back and recover it?)

(sure you can)

“Yes, I have. He died on the planet Maintaine”

"Good. Someone finally did something about it then. Between the Al-Muta Mining company, and Tri-Green Medical, and the damn Tenebrian Remnant, humans have not been kind to this world. Still, I was glad to see no one was killed when my kin took their frustrations out on your embassy"

2:44 PM

"We were fearful for some time that an armed reprisal was coming"

“I can assure you, no such thing will happen. We just want to be friends with your kind”

"President Kincaid herself sent us as an extension of her goodwill in order to reopen negotiations."

2:54 PM

"We want not for your planet to suffer, we understand the intense relationship you have with it."

(Should I do something?)

He thinks for a long moment. "Understanding something and respecting something are very different. Respecting that relationship is what humans have not done so far. Food for thought" he says, as the mists around you seem to swirl even faster.

3:02 PM

"We'll be there in a few moments. Stay close to me"

(Seems there might be psychics here. The mist aint swirling on its own)

3:08 PM

(Sadly, i haven’t had time to train me physic abilities, and I have no offensive power)

(These people are all naturally attuned, especially when together)

3:08 PM

(Hopefully we won't need it)

(Alright, lets hope.)

The mist clears, and you stand at the edge of a large clearing where a series of buildings have been constructed, on the other side of a bridge. The bridge passes over a swift moving river, though clears the turbulent whitecaps with plenty of space. The largest building is a multi tiered temple or city center, too hard to determine what it is at this distance. In the town square, the deep space radio mast the UNW had once provided has been torn down, the only evidence of it remaining are the four cement pilings originally used to anchor it to the ground. Holes have been drilled with hand tools in them, and now vines grow. Dozens of jademane enter and exit various smaller buildings, some with wicker baskets of food, others with earthenware jugs of water or other products

3:28 PM

the embassy had once been on this more immediate side of the bridge, and you can see the burned outline of where the modest structure had once stood

Proceus cautiously looks around for would be assassins or revolutionaries, and continues following the man

The Jademane stops at the end of the bridge, before crossing over the river, and raps his spear against the ground three times. A bell in the large central building tolls once, and those on the streets begin paying attention. Those inside dwellings come out.

Proceus tries not to show fear, and waits for venser to read aloud the proposal

Three Jademane elders move, gossamer thin through the air, through the main central 'street', which is only flat due to the constant tread of hundreds of feet. They appear at the opposite end of the bridge, while your guide begins to speak. None of the Jademane are talking to one another, and have not since you arrived here, going about their lives and passing one another in the street in eerie silence.

3:47 PM

"These travelers are from the UNW, and understand they are trespassing. They have been peaceful with me during our travels, and have made special attentions before coming here to learn as much about us, and our planet, as they could- along with recent events concerning both. They have acted honorably, and I stand as life-steward for them. If their proposal is rejected, they will be permitted to leave in peace as long as they continue to uphold their peaceful intentions. " The elders make a show of nodding, or undertaking some similar form of physical affirmation

3:47 PM

The guide turns to you. "Alright, say what you came to say"

(I have no idea what to say)

(12:35 pm yesterday , Captain gave you a nice rundown

“The shapers have been defeated!”

4:15 PM

“We wish to open peace talks with your people”

"Greetings! We are ambassador's for the UNW, on behalf of President Kincaid we'd like to extend both our thanks for your hospitality; if this man is at all representative of your society you should feel a great pride. And our sincerest apologies at the treatment we have shown your people." Venser starts. Recanting a little speach he's been working on in his head. "I know we can't make up for the sins of the past, and whilst the human parties that have hurt your planet and by extension yourselves have been dealt with severely, such as the coward Malak Al-Muta, we cannot pretend they were not apart of us. We can only be as strong as our weakest, but we are trying to be better. My colleague is correct, the shapers and the beast with which they served have been slain, I'm sure you have all felt the psychic wave, some have dubbed it a 'second scream' although its presence is far more welcome I'm sure. You need no longer live in fear of the shapers tendrils, during this time of unrest that was the UNW primary concern, that you may be in the direct path of a tendril and had rebuffed any force we could have sent to hold this planet. Our prime and only directive is to deliver this news to you, which I hope you find comfort in. If you'll have us however we'd like to introduce the idea of reopening negotiations, we both understand and respect your deep connection to the world here." As he nods to the Elder that led us here. "And I would assure you I would do everything in my power to uphold this respect and balance in any future agreement. We see you as peaceful neighbours and would like you to return to the fold." (edited)

4:32 PM

Venser takes a deep breath in and out, as if worn out by the public speaking.

(Dang, that was a great speech)

(You get a re-roll token venser. Good job)

"Phew I got through it all! Forgive me if I've skipped over any details. I am hear as an honest representative, not for intricate politicking."

4:35 PM

(Thanks!)

“The ambassadors may approach” the head elder says, his beaded neck inclining slightly to acknowledge you. “Cross the bridge and stand with us. And we will talk

Proceus follows them, secretly hoping to see some aspects of their culture for a future ambition

Venser feels at ease for the first time since arriving and makes his way across the bridge.

The Jademane crowd is silent, and respectfully stays on the sides of the road while you pass, in the shadow of their elders. The temple building, clearly seen now, is made from local stone, and vines have been allowed to grow un-cut along the outsides, in a strange way holding the structure together. The large bell, the same shade of dull jade, rings again, seeming to dismiss the crowd.

8:14 AM

The inside of the temple is largely plain, and some woven mats have been left out to sit on, along with a low table. The elder motions for you all to take a seat

(Proceus takes a seat)

The walls have beautiful woven native artwork showing local landscapes on the walls. They prefer spears, and bows but a few of them do have mag weapons of UNW origin. The armoring stamp of Pop's foundry - the same as would be on the laser pistol Proceus carries, is shining and proud on all of them. Despite their low tech lifestyle, they've none the less seen the value in the small amounts of tech they have received

(Can I study the walls for clues on anything?)

(what kind of information are you looking for?)

(Locations, maybe techniques)

The locations are clearly on this world, but this is a view from the ground, not orbit, so you're not able to discern where exactly these might be on your own

(May I ask?)

(yes)

“What are these locations that are marked on the wall?” Proceus asks respectfully

(Shame I dont have telepathy)

(just going to wait for Venser to catch up a bit)

(I'm caught up, sorry just didn't want to break the flow)

"I can take you to them if you like, if things here go well. They're some areas nearby that we think are especially pleasant. Pleasant enough to put into tapestry at least. So, youve come to re-open negotiations and bring us back into the fold. Coming here without an army at your back goes a long way toward me trusting you on that. There would be some conditions that need to be met for us to consider coming back into the fold peacefully"

“Tell me about them, we can probably work something out”

Venser just sits comfortably with a look of synergy and complete faith in what Proceus is saying.

12:17 PM

(Only thing is as representatives do we know how much power to make concessions we have? Or is this more of a recieve their demands and report back deal?)

(Report back, but when we do the council meeting at the beginning of next game month, you'll have something to bring up)

(Alright but then ill visit those sites and retrieve the powa armor)

(Oh nice, thanks)

(So how does effort per scene work? Do you reclaim the effort later?)

(yes, this is a new scene)

(Ah, nice)

"I'll lay out the terms for you, and from there, you'll be free to report back to your decision making body.

The Jademane have no wish to go to space
No UNW holdings can be built on the planet, but local space can be developed
No unauthorized landings may occur, but the Jademane will designate a space for trade

-No private holdings can be constructed on the surface of the planet

“Sounds good!” (Can you pin that)

Eisheru, et al. pinned a message to this channel. 4/23/2020 1:19 PM

“Now may you take me to those sites that you were talking about?”

"I have to ask, how likely do you think the UNW is to honor those terms?"

1:35 PM

"I need to know what to prepare my people for"

“Very likely, as these terms are not demanding, and easily acceptable” (edited)

1:36 PM

“You have nothing to fear” (edited)

"The UNW as a whole simply wants to consolidate it's space, so it is far more difficult for such crises to occur. Local space is all we need. Fair trade is important to showing our respect. There are plenty of world's out there for resources, we wish not to take for the sake of taking."

Proceus agrees

Addressing those with Mag weapons "You clearly see the benefits in some of the technology we have already brought you, we have much to offer eachother."

The other elders have remained largely silent, but are no doubt communicating in some way without words. "Alright" the lead says after a moment. "I think that is about what we can do, for the moment. No sense saying much else without your government's official reply. You wanted to see one of the sites on the tapestry here?"

"We promise to address this point by point at the next council meeting."

“Yes, please” says Proceus “I would love to learn more about your culture and technology”

2:36 PM

“And what he said”

"I too have to admit I'm curious, I don't think I've seen this much green in my life."

(I didnt see any ruins on the map, though I saw more than one village)

(If there's no label, no ones been there before to explore it. Nobody here mentioned anything saying there are other Jademane out there either. )

3:02 PM

(you can ask about it, but theres no information there because no information is known)

(What are you guys referencing?)

(the planet map on roll20)

3:39 PM

(You guys are at the Cathedral looking hex in the center-ish of the planet)

Nekosmash pinned a message to this channel. 4/23/2020 3:40 PM

(Ah, excellent thank you)

(So, wheres the location of the things on the tapestry? Is he going to lead us there or tell us the location?) (edited)

(He's going to take you)

3:50 PM

(I think you were going to ask about one of those unmarked sites though, so i didnt move ahead)

“What exactly are in those places?”

"We had more settlements before the sky started crying rock. We could not project domes to protect them all. Many Jademane made dangerous treks through the jungle to reach this, our last city. Ruins now, from a time when we did not listen to the voice of our planet, and paid for it"

“Well then, I will follow you”

"I'm sorry for your loss, please lead the way."

(For map purposes , we will go to the village hex north of the cathedral hex where you are at, near the inland sea

7:46 PM

The elder grabs a hand , taking one from each of you and the mist that pervaded the jungle begins to swirl here, even indoors

7:47 PM

“Normally it takes many of us to do something like this, but you live long enough to reach old age like me, and it’s easier”

“Why would that be?”

"Why did I get older? " he seems confused by the question. The mists part, and you stand 50m from the edge of an overgrown settlement. More of the flat or terraced buildings dot the landscape. You can see moss overgrowing what were once carefully inlaid flagstones. "One of the images on that tapestry was the old town square here. This was an important fishing settlement once. We made sure to only take what we needed and allow the rest to spawn-helping where we could. It has been years since anyone caught something, or lived here"

(Do I meed to roll to carefully inspect the wreckage?)

(it depends what youre looking for, without knowing what question or information youre trying to obtain i cant really tell you what to roll)

"Can your people not reclaim such settlements now that the crying rock has ceased?"

"There are so few of us left. Not enough to settle a new place and still have enough to work the fields or tend the shops at home. We mistwalk here sometimes, to gather things that may have been left behind... But it is hard to stay for long."

Proceus walks through the wreckage, carefully noting where the shops and the houses would be, all the while looking for loot

Clay jars, broken pottery, and a few abandoned hunting weapons such as a bow or spears have been left behind. Age has bitten at most of the remaining goods. This site being evacuated, the former residents took as much as they could carry with them, and visited shortly after for more.

Proceus bags the weapons, to either study them or restore them

(Are we waiting for Venser?)

(yes)

(Why are you guys always on at the same time?! xD)

11:10 AM

While Proceus is investigating, Venser follows slowly walking with the Elder "So your people all have at least some latent low level MES? And you are your people often join your powers communally in order to draw from it?" (edited)

(Like an effort pool?)

"We can speak in the mind with one another, and in times of great need, we have been able to come together to perform the great acts we have needed to in order to survive. Protecting our last settlement was the most recent example. It is painful, and difficult. Many died in the effort to shield us. It is not something we do unless there is great need. Asking someone to possibly give up their life even if a cause is noble is a conversation no one should get too comfortable with. Man or Jademane.

"I couldn't agree more, I was in cold sleep during the scream. An event in my past meant I was partially torching for over 3 years before they could wake me." (edited)

11:16 AM

"But someone like you, an elder with experience, can 'mistwalk' as you say, by yourself?"

After inspection, Proceus walks toward them to listen to their conversation

"I can. It becomes easier as we get older for some reason. More used to it, or more time spent doing it maybe. When something works, you don't tamper with it" he smiles as much to himself, as you Venser. Proceus busies himself with a rusting spear, and a damaged shortbow, the animal gut-string long since rotted away. There are no arrows with it. Jademane are taller than humans on average, and this "shortbow" to them, is easily full size to you

“What is mist walking? Can you describe it?”

“You’re both talented in the...the arts of behind the veil?” He asks after a moment. You feel a slight but not unpleasant prickle on each of your skins

2:35 PM

“A sensitivity , at least “

(Telekinesis?)

"I believe the Elder is referring to what you and I would call teleportation. If only in a more, natural sense."

(without metapsionics you couldnt know what it is)

3:39 PM

"That might be what you call it" he confirms "if it helps you understand me, your word Teleportation, works" "You can see even here, we invited the native plants and animals to live with us, living among them rather than forcing our will upon where we have set down" he notices Proceus returning with a shortbow and spear "You may take those as cultural mementos if you wish. My people gathered what they needed from here long ago"

"Well this has been fascinating, are you satisfied Proceus?"

“Yes, I am” “Thank you for your time, I am deeply grateful”

(He was using psychic refinement)

(Who was)

(The old man, right?)

(You wouldn’t know without meta psionics. Your characters with their current knowledge would have no way of knowing)

(Welp, whatever. What do we do next, go back to the mother ship?)

(3xp 5000 credits each) The Jademane elder brings back to the landing site and your call for pickup has the shuttle return to collect you. Twenty minutes later you are back in the expedition hangar, the cargo lighter settling down onto its landing skis

(I’m all updated)

6:34 PM

Proceus walks off the shuttle with his prize in his hands.

The hangar doors at the end of the hangar open slowly, as the captain walks out onto the deck. Two naval armsmen hang back, close to the door and seem relaxed. You can feel the ship engines gently powering up, as they prepare to break orbit. "So, how did everything on the surface go?"

"Very well, all things considered. We have a list of terms for negotiation at the next council meeting. No confict, they were very friendly and accommodating." And Venser gestures to Proceus to see if he has anything to say. (edited)

“They have a few terms to be part of the UNW, but nothing too hard to accomplish”

"sounds like you'll have something to report back to the unity council meeting next month. Good to hear. Get yourselves sorted, we'll be making the jump to Tsioakoudi next. Gas giant, two moons that are iron rich, but barren. We might not be there long, but its our next port of call"

Proceus spends the time continuing to learn sylth

4:43 PM

But first, he fixes the weapons he found

The weapons are antiques, and the ship does not have the materials needed to repair them with (unless you have spare parts on you, 1 part each, and at least a fix 0)

(No parts, but lvl 0 fix)

(Can't repair it right now then)

(Alright, ill just learn sylth)

(2/30 then, for Slyth, and when Venser knows how he wants to use the downtime, we can total his out too) The trip to Tsioakoudi is likewise short, and the spike drill itself is uneventful. This close to UNW territory, any would-be pirates are likewise not operating in the area. The presence of routine patrols such as this makes that possible. The gas giant is calm, and its two barren moons slowly circle in their own orbits. The surfaces of both were surveyed hurriedly, and are thought to be barren

(Can I use the downtime to begin customising my revolver? I now have 1000 credits for it and Fix-1.)

(Yes )

(Well if I'm soley working on that in my downtime it should take 3.5 days)

(Right but you can start it and it’ll be done before your patrol circuit is over)

(Excellent, I'll spend my downtime doing that then, thanks.)

6:28 AM

Venser makes his way to the bridge to talk with the Captain "So why are we here?"

“Empty system close to home. Never hurts to pop in and make sure nothings in the neighborhood. Doesn’t look like a anything is here now. Let’s hope it stays that way. We are going to do a quick scan of the moons just to be sure, and then we will move on”

"Anything we can help with Cap?"

(Im caught up)

There is a single tone beep from the scanning array. “Something small. In orbit around the second moon.” The scanning officer calls back, seeing the captains attention

“All right, what can I do?”

“We should check it out. If it’s small enough we might need a couple people to space walk. Either of you feeling up to it?”

“Yup, ill go”

Venser becomes very apprehensive. After shaking his head to clear his mind he reluctantly says “Um, yeh sure let’s do it.”

“You’ll be tethered to the ship and backup will be standing by. If it looks dangerous we can disengage. Get down to the expedition hangar. Suit up and grab whatever you need from the ship locker” (So any tools or more non military gear. Not weapons or armor since you’ll be vac suited anyway)

(Ima take some spare parts and a tool kit/metatool)

(no parts aboard, thats why we couldnt fix the spear, but the post tech tool kit and metatool are available)

(Ill take both)

(I will take a set of glow bugs and can a survey scanner act kind of like a radar? I'd ideally like something that detect life signatures or gives an outline of the layout of a space hulk.)

(Good idea)

(Thanks!)

(Is the bow still usable?)

(It isn’t. There’s no string )

2:52 PM

(The survey scanner can do anything non organic. Bioscanner is organic)

“I’m ready!” Shouts Proceus, and begins to walk towards the shuttle(or where he should go)

(Ok thanks)

3:16 PM

Venser grabs a survey scanner and a number of glow bugs, along with the rest of his usual gear and makes his way to the shuttle. "Right behind you."

As the ship closes it becomes clear the object is small. An elevator takes you up from the shuttle bay to the port airlock. Outside the object is obscured by frosting over viewport panels

Proceus puts on his vaccsuit and walks to the (ramp?)

Venser does the same. He activates comms to the Captain "Do we have any idea what it is yet?" (edited)

“That’s what you’re going out. We aren’t sure what it is. Doesn’t look like much anymore. I’m looking along on a visual link within both of your helmets. We will get through this together”

7:34 PM

The airlock begins to cycle and you feel air begin being pumped into your suits, the lines finally disconnecting as the on board air supply tops off. A countdown from six hours , and a half hour reserve begins to tick down

Proceus begins to float toward the ship.(Is there an airlock)

The airlock of the Cornelius Hardt opens allowing you to both float free of the ship. Something resembling a damaged spike probe floats 100m from you in open space. Several of its sensor veins have been snapped off and it vents something like fuel or gasses from within.

Proceus checks for anything useful, such as parts or a sensor not broken

A probe status panel lights up as it senses the two of you approaching

7:43 PM

It shows a message is stored within

Proceus checks it with interest

(Just gonna wait for venser)

(

)

While Proceus closely inspects Venser looks around for floating parts, other objects or anything else significant.

The electronics are mostly turned out or burned out, though there’s enough floating to give you two pieces of spare parts to use for your own projects later. The message begins to play as Proceus fiddles with the probe status panel. “This is Admiral Morgan Inghram of the Constellation Supremacy Front. This probe brings with it an offer for trade, and the knowledge that we are not looking for a fight. We are Departing New Moon Cooperative space and will be arriving at Amirsadhegi within days, and will remain for a time unless you wish us to visit one of your worlds. “ A small picture shows their trade station

5:43 AM

(Venser, did you want to investigate anything or take a look at this with your fix skill before we just skip over huge chunks of info here?)

(How about later i lug it back but now I continue looking?) (edited)

The probe has several settings on the status panel, allowing additional data to be accessed. The probe is thin, barely larger than the weak spike drive contained within. Handling it in any way requires extreme care

(Can I take the spike drive? For a ship later?)

(no)

9:08 AM

(you're on official UNW business)

(Alrighty)

(only thing here is the probe, no other ships aside from the one you came in)

Proceus tugs the probe back to the ship

The hangar deck opens, as you and Venser enter the ship this way instead. The deck remains cleared, while the both of you continue working on it. The probe status panel continues to show there are other data archives on board, but a skilled hand will be needed to extract the drive without triggering information safeguards on the device

(I have fix 0, or maybe i can power it using electrokinesis?)

(lets give your companion some time to do do something for himself)

(Apologies guys I can’t get to my computer today)

(you're fine friend, can do the rolls for you if it helps, not sure what your set up is like)

Venser first examines the structure closely for himself, and searches for any additional unaccessed data (I have program-0 skill if that helps) and then uses his metatool to attempt to extract the drive. (Using fix-1). (edited)

11:13 AM

(Thanks, that would help actually I can’t get on roll20.)

(9) Venser makes short work of the anti-tampering device, and the mechanical innards of the probe are laid bare. A team of technicians have suited up in their vac suits and are making their way across the hangar deck to you, to secure the spike drive within and power it down for storage. It is a compact and weak device- this probe must have been scouting for some time ahead of whatever the Constellation Supremacy Front is.

(Can I ask the captain what that is?)

(sure)

Venser opens comms with the Captain “Ughhh...” breathing heavily “Sorry that was stressful for me, both the space walk and careful work I had to do on this. Umm this is strange we appear to have captured a scouting spike probe for some kind of unregistered faction?”

11:18 AM

“Thanks for sending your guys in.”

11:18 AM

(Cheers Neko)

“So guys, wanna go to Amirsadhegi?”

"That is how it seems. I've never heard of the constellation supremacy front. It's got markings on it showing NMC origin, but why they're calling themselves something else.....there might be some kind of internal division we don't know about. We haven't had any real contact with them since the Battle of Benavides. "

“Well, since their trading, maybe we can get some stuff, and I’ve been itching to learn a martial art”

“Well they are supposedly leaving NMC space for ours, I’ve never seen any void ship so grand...”

(You're going to be there about a month ahead of them right now)

11:23 AM

(its just where they're ending at the end of the month)

(Got any ideas? If possible, i wanna learn something or train)

(Is this a new neutral polity?)

11:26 AM

“You can re-pressurise the hangar deck Sir, we’re good on our end. And I’d like to get out of this suit...” He nervously chuckles to himself. (edited)

“Agreed!”

(Its a new neutral one, yes, and there's more of the patrol to do, however, if you guys have your own ideas for things you want to do now, we can head back and split off)

(I personally am good this is freaking interesting. Thank you for all this.)

11:32 AM

(So so far there’s a new neutral polity arriving in UNW space in a month so at the start of next month we have that and the Jademane negotiations to bring up?) (edited)

(I’ll follow venser, as I need cash)

(they're going to be in neutral space, but within a 4 day jump of UNW territory)

1

(Ok, can I grab some knives from the armory? And can I convert the spear into a knive?) (edited)

(3xp, 5000 credits. Each of you gains 1 unit of spare parts)

(Gracias)

(Ooooo)

(What?)

The hangar hisses as the doors shut, and pressure returns. Everyone gives that slight relieved sigh, or happy cry as they can finally breathe air that has not been cycled through their own suits dozens of times. No amount of filtering can truly overcome body odor. A small crane lifts the probe up, domed front facing the ceiling like it is some sort of prized animal kill on display

Proceus goes to his quarters, and(what does meditation do?)

(Venser, anything else you want to tinker with on this thing before we cut away to personal business?)

(What on the probe? Not sure there's anything else to tinker with. Could I potentially hack into it to see if there's a hidden data set? i.e. a black slab)

12:40 PM

(Other than that I'd like to continue adding the customised mod to my revolver.)

(you could yes, we'd need a program/int which I can roll for you, but I didnt wan to force you to do it)

(No I'd love to look further into it if I can.)

12:47 PM

(Hang on I've got my PC back now.)

12:48 PM

(Got a 5 for program/int)

(Ill continue learning sylth) (edited)

The remainder of the data is corrupted, but the CSF might have something to offer for it when you meet.

“Wheres next captain?”

Venser swears to himself in frustration at losing the rest, makes a reminder of that and joins Proceus.

(I might be able to help you with the mods to your gun. For a price:) )

(lol, thanks but I'm pretty close to finishing it anyways, got about 2 days left.)

(Can I roll a connect/ charisma to find a master to learn a martial art?)

On the bridge, the captain has two routes plotted out ahead of him, and seems to be carefully considering the star-map "We have two possible courses ahead of us, the choice of either Craytulus, or Haila. We won't be able to land on Haila, but the...friendly...locals have been leaving trade goods on the space station we built there for us. Craytulus is a different matter. They've valued their independence so far, but we stop in the neighborhood on patrol anyway, and just try to keep some contact with the locals. Our crews usually get shore leave there and as long as we don't break the law, they don't seem to mind" ( I dont know how youd find one on the ship, and you said you wanted to continue the patrol. If you want to break off into your own thing, nows the time, before we roll into something else)

12:57 PM

"I'll let you decide where to next, they've both been visited recently, so we aren't letting any of our duties suffer by picking one over the other"

(I’ll continue, I like this thread) “I’ll go where Venser goes”

1

"Are we not meant to visit both?"

(its where you want to go first, they're about equal in terms of drive distance)

(Ah gotcha)

1:08 PM

"In an ideal world I think the crew deserves a little respite at Craytulus. I know Proceus is always up for other cultures," he begins playfully whispering, hand covering his mouth "and their weapons." He returns to normal volume "And we're on a bit of a diplomatic roll." (edited)

“Ya know me, so I’ll go there too”

"I'll speak with the navigator, I'd expect 4 days in spike space. 2 days to get back, where We'll be making a quick stop at Gudrun to rotate some crew, and then from there its 2 days to our destination"

"It's important to keep up trade though, so Halia seems important too."

“Sounds good, I’ll ne in my room, studying sylth. I wanna go to their colony one day”

Venser pulls the Captain aside before leaving. "Sir, may I ask what's to become of that spike drive? I know ships are few and far between out here." (edited)

"The UNW has been at war almost since the very beginning, and our fleet has almost never stopped being deployed. The drive will be re-engineered and placed into a new military or civilian vessel"

(To be honest, I smell a conspiracy)

(xD I smell desperate politicians)

(Are you working on Slyth for the entire trip Proceus?)

(Yep, unless i can do something more productive)

"Very good. I've been curious about acquiring my own vessel in future is all, the more I learn after waking up, the farther away that prospect seems." (edited)

“Same for I, you should see my plans on the cheapskate”

(6/30 for Slyth then Pro, by time we reach our destination) "Ah Mr. Reach, there are several UNW sub-factions out there offering ships, and shipbuilding, if your aspirations are elsewhere, perhaps mustering out of naval service and serving alongside one of those outfits might be your calling.

"Hmm, I'll look into it. For now you're doing the Navy proud and I'm happy to serve under your conn. Thank you sir." Venser gives him a nod (is there a UNW salute?) and leaves.

(not really anything unique no, just never came up)

1:34 PM

(so by the end of this next leg of the trip, Pro will be spending the time learning Slyth, I know you have a little time left on your gun, what do you want to do with the rest?)

(I was training 'know' skill, but I think I'll actually begin learning Taros if I can.)

(Why?)

(alright, we had 2 days left after the revolver mods are done? or 3?)

(2)

(Yeh the whole thing takes 3.5 days so I should have about 2 left)

1:40 PM

(And to answer why, they are still very distrusting of humans but are kind of a core part of the UNW, maybe it will help be build better relationships with any Taros I come across and show my respect. I can contact anyone telepathically but people don't take too kindly to it.)

1:40 PM

(Also space elves.)

(I understand, it’s a pretty compelling argument)

(perfect, so revolver complete, and 2/30 days of Taros studied)

(Alright, full spike ahead!)

(Thanks I'll make a note)

1:45 PM

(I paid the 1000 credits btw)

(Which mod?)

(customised, +1 to hit on my revolver for me)

(Nice)

1:57 PM

(I want some nice arcanotech)

(mate we gotta survive until the endgame first

)

The stop at Gudrun goes as planned. Provisions are topped off, and a handful of spacers who had personal leave trade places with those coming off. most of the departments stay the same. The trip to Craytulus is equally uneventful

2:01 PM

(map coming in a second)

2:05 PM

2:07 PM

(Halcyon is the only currently inhabited settlement. Comet-Trail labs is mentioned in the roll20 for the important sites handout, but the abhumans there are currently not doing business)

(Looks nice, ive been itching to go on land to try my new technique)

Two cargo lighters with benches inserted for crew are brought up to the flight deck, and 8 other crewmen are also heading down to the planet to do some shopping in Halcyon. One has a woman companion there as well, and the others tease him about going to see her. He takes it good naturedly

Proceus stares jealously, then forgets when he sees the surface coming into view

Venser chuckles to himself watching Proceus.

(if you guys wanted to explore another site aside from town, the lighter can bring you there, just tell me where you want to go. There's no information on anything other than Comet-Trail, since no one has explored anywhere else)

(Honestly, pick a random ruin. I got a technique just to help me find things)

(Venser, when you have a moment, you also get a say in this friend)

(Where are we not allowed by the locals? Because ruined military base looks interesting.)

(Hehe it does, doesn’t it? Maybe some parachuting might be in order)

(you can go anywhere you want. They dont really have the power to stop you unless youre trying to do something terrible to Halcyon City itself)

(Ok, unless Proceus you want to do any shopping in Halcyon City, once we've landed and waved the crew off lets get the lighter to bring us to the 'Ruined Military Base')

(Welp, anything here can be bought on that giant trade ship, so let’s loot a military base!)

(Oh dear God we're definitely gonna die)

(Nah, nobodies there. Besides, if theres any creatures, ill bond with them and make them love me)

(Lol, did you take Gaiapsionics?)

(Yep, so I can ask nature if theres interesting stuff close by)

(oooooooooo)

The crew exits outside the bleached white walls of Halcyon. The gatehouse is clean, and two skeletons hung by their feet are beginning the last stages of deterioration before entirely falling apart. the labels above both scaffolds state they were former Brothers of Fenris. They look to have been hanging for some time. The lighter lifts back off, and a short flight has you within visual range of the ruined base. Imagery from above begins to come in.

3:29 PM

(Where we droppin venser)

Nekosmash pinned a message to this channel. 4/27/2020 3:30 PM

(I vote the middle building, but we don’t split up, cuz thats how people die)

(lets do it)

2

3:43 PM

(inb4 this becomes an episode of Scooby Doo)

(With arcanist shadows)

The lighter probes close to the base airspace, and when nothing locks on or fires, it approaches, hovering over the roof of the middle building. The ramp extends, allowing both of you to walk off. A hatchway is set into the floor, leading inside, though it is closed right now.

Venser nods to the pilot, walks over, crouches next to the hatch and draws his revolver pointed upwards and level to his head. He looks over at Proceus and gives a cocky smirk "Ready?" (edited)

Proceus returns the smirk “Ready!”

4:33 PM

He then jumps onto the roof and waits for venser

The lifter heads skyward again after you’ve been dropped off, the sounds of its engines slowly fade away. The hatch remains closed

(How do I open it?)

(Try something)

Proceus tries to open the door

The hatch is unlocked and a metal ladder goes down 5m into a storage room. Most of the equipment looks to have been taken and what’s left you’re already carrying something more modern. A doorway inside on the western door leads deeper into the facility

Proceus ventures deeper

6:31 PM

(Can I use that gaia technique here?)

(Evasion save for Proceus) (edited)

15

(I don’t see a roll In Roll20)

I did it in browser, I was in mobile

(I can’t honor a result that isn’t in Roll20)

Alright

(I only use mobile. Roll20 works fine on your mobile browser. Sometimes it’s helpful to open the character sheet in another window.)

(Thanks, and I have completed it)

A shotgun fires from a single shot turret in the ceiling as you throw the door open. (1 damage )

Proceus takes apart the turret, gathering some parts/something and continues the trek

7:11 PM

(Can you tell me when I hit the middle of the whole facility?)

(The turret is too high for you to reach)

7:25 PM

)if you’re in a hurry to skip over this the offer to split off has been presented a few times. I don’t rush missions )

(Alright, ill wait)

Venser slowly continues down the hallway pass the turret.

7:02 AM

Making a mental note of the turrets location for later, thinking he might be able to pull it from the ceiling with telekinesis if nothing else turns up.

The hallway has a room on the left labeled MATERIAL STORAGE and a room on the right labeled CAUTION: HIGH VOLTAGE but no other indicator of what might be inside.

Venser looks left and nods his head, fairly intrigued. Then looks right, sees the sign, and begins grinning ear to ear. He moves toward the CAUTION: HIGH VOLTAGE sign.

(Is there some way to check a door for traps before going through it?)

The door is a normal interior door, though the back is lined with rubber when you open it (normally I give some kind of hint because spamming notice checks isnt very much fun, but if youre extra concerned, we can do a notice/wis)

(nah I like that)

Three conduit boxes with switches in the OFF position line the western wall of the room. The wires look to be intact, and a manual is chained to the wall, though it can be opened and read (think like when you go to the store for windshield wipers, the display has that book chained to it)

Venser moves over to the manual and opens to the first page.

COLONIAL ARMS POCKET GARRISON: OWNERS MANUAL TO BOOT OR REBOOT COLONIAL ARMS FACILITY, POWER RESTORE PULL CENTRAL LEVER TO SAEFLY ENGAGE REACTOR

Venser scanning over the words mutters "Uh huh.. alll-right." And flips through for any more relevant information.

9:15 AM

After that he moves over to the central box and moves the lever up into the on position.

There is a gentle him from belowground, and the emergency lights flip from standby, to off- the rest of the lights around the facility, along with dormant computer systems begin to turn on. You can feel ozone in the air as systems begin feeling the long missed touch of energy they need. On the towers outside, squat quad barreled anti air guns begin to rise out of housings, patrolling the sky.

Venser attempts to contact the lighter on his compad, relaying the message to land outside the range of the base when they ask for pickup, and only enter its airspace when given his express permission.

We saw the master alert click on a moment ago the pilot radios back to you thank you for the confirmation, we weren't sure what to make of it. I'll refuel and be back to loiter until you need me, be safe down there

Excellent thank you very much for your vigilance, see you soon.

9:23 AM

(And I have no idea what the other conduit boxes do?)

The second page has more instructions THE FIRST AND THIRD LEVERS MUST BE ENGAGED AT THE SAME TIME FOR A FULL RESTART. FOLLOWING THAT, WAIT FIVE MOMENTS, AND PROCEED DOWNSTAIRS TO THE COMMAND CENTER. ADMINISTRATIVE PASSWORD IS CURRENT STELLAR YEAR

9:24 AM

(Which is currently 2668)

"Well that's safe." He says smiling to himself.

9:26 AM

(Is it too late to do the first and third lever?)

(nope!, you can anytime)

Venser flips both of them in turn.

The rest of the lights turn on, and the laser-wire at the top of the walls begins sparking to life. Tiny garages open everywhere across the base, as surveillance eyebots, roachpopper mouse bots, and the base VI comes online. It can be spoken with and accessed in the command center below

(Ah shit did I just trigger all the defense systems?)

(no just normal stuff that would be working here. Roachpoppers kill small pests like bugs or rodents and clean everything, and the eyebots are basically the base sensor web) (edited)

(Phew ok thanks)

9:35 AM

Venser makes a note of the admin password and heads downstairs to the command centre.

Downstairs, climbing down an access ladder in this room, you reach the command center. A ring of computer terminals facing outward surrounds a half formed figure, held up on a nest of thick cables and neural plugs.

10:47 AM

The glowing blue eyes look up, to regard you as you make your way to the bottom of the ladder.

"Ho-ly. Terra." As Venser slides down the remainder of the ladder, half fearful and half awe struck, he's frozen against the wall taking in the visual.

10:52 AM

(Fuck that picture is badass.)

(Ye I saw it on reddit not too long back)

Almost stuttering, Venser begins "Uhh, hi! I have reactivated this installation. You are the base's VI. I understand if such a reboot is distressing for you, you have been deactive for some time."

"Where are....where are my legs?" it asks, looking around the room as much as it is able. Presumably, there were weapon mounts on its arms once, and those look to have been removed with a yank-and-tear method, rather than careful disassembly

Stepping forward "The evacuation was hap-hazard and quick, we are reclaiming this facility but don't exactly know the details of what happened here. They seem to have left you in quite a state in order to expedite the process of taking any valuables." (edited)

There is a creak like shifting metal, as it begins to think. "I see. The eyebots sense elevated levels of radiation in the countryside. It is also in the wind. There was a war" it says with clarity

"A nuclear war, yeh. The only safe zone left on the planet is Halycon city. I've come through to survey the base, I never expected to find tech as magnificent as you however."

"You flatter" the machine says, with as much limited emotion as it can convey. "I do sense the radioactives in the air. Are you here to begin resettlement of the local area?"

1:17 PM

Its head jerks violently, as it quickly jumps from responding to you, to asking its unrelated questions

"This is just the first wave to scout and ensure its safe, but likely in the future. So long as we can convince the planetary Government to do so."

"I...I...I see" it says, head trembling violently again "What would you like to know about the area?"

1:26 PM

A small viewscreen also appears, showing a camera staring at Proceus "A friend? I can exterminate him if he is not"

Venser becomes incredibly unnerved at the words. "Ah definitely a friend, my partner, apologies for the snooping."

1:28 PM

"Do you know what sort of inventory is still contained in this base?"

A small list begins to populate, as a flock of eyebots is assigned to check inventory rooms and check bar codes 4x portable mortar with 20 HE shells, and 4 star-shells 4x Heavy Machine Gun, tripods included- 1 belt for each in box 2 x Railgun - hard rounds missing 1 x Combat rifle- hard rounds missing 6 x Fragmentation Grenades 2 x Lift Serum A hangar on the side of the building has a grav car inside, the Type B cell inside has 38% of its charge left

2:54 PM

(The UNW will pay for the war materials, if you decide to take them, or you could leave them here for whoever comes to settle the place once you talk it over with the folks in Halcyon)

2:55 PM

There are no rations left in the base Radiation leaks have been detected underground where the base draws its water, and the potable tanks should be considered contaminated

Venser eyes run over the list as it populates "Shit. I was not expecting that amount of comprehensiveness."

3:05 PM

(Can I check with compad whether I can hail the Captain to tell him about this)

3:06 PM

"I know you may not particularly understand human manners but I'm being rude, what is your name VI?"

(with the facility under your control, communications are restored) "I am Defense Monitor Andesite, though you may call me whatever you wish as long as it is respectful"

Venser pulls out his compad and forwards the list to the Cornelius Hardt.

3:09 PM

"Ooo I really want to call you 'Ande' but Andesite will do for now."

3:11 PM

"There aren't many VI's left after the scream, they are valuable assets and scarce at best. What are your thougts on leaving this installation and being set up somewhere far more accomodating and interesting?"

3:12 PM

"I worry for your current state and the time lag of bureaucrats before this base is properly reclaimed, meanwhile your skills are being wasted." (edited)

"Where would I be serving?" Ande asks, "her" attention is now firmly focused on you

"I can't be entirely sure yet. But there are so many vacancies, aboard our fleet among the stars would be most likely. Or working with one of our many factions on Gudrun in feats of engineering and coordination." (edited)

“The chance to do something aside from rust as this outpost falls apart around me would be...welcome. If I talk you and your friend through the process, do you think you can get me down from here?”

Venser quickly responds to Proceus before continuing.

1:09 AM

“I believe so, yes.”

'The idea of being here left to rust until the planetary leaders start to care does not appeal to me now that I am awake. I would like to go with you."

"We'll make it so. Is there anything of particular note I should do or investigate around the base before we disconnect you?"

"The power is on, and the sensor web is running. The defenses will shut down without my controlling them" She thinks for a moment "The steps to unplug me are not difficult, but there are many. I would expect you to be working at this for the rest of the day, even if your friend comes to help"

"Fine by me, this is exactly the kind of thing we came here for."

“Hey, Venser” Proceus says as he walks into the room. “Who’s this?”

"Hey! Meet Andesite, 'Ande' for short 'she's' the installation virtual intelligence, 'she' runs everything. We're going to have to spend some time carefully disconnecting her in order to tack her back and put her complex systems to better use."

“Sounds good!”

"Andesite, this is my partner on the job; 'Proceus' the one you nearly killed earlier."

“Ya gave me a fright there!” “Traps seem to love me in this facility”

“I heard we’re gonna help you down from there”

(Are we going to rp taking him down from there?)

(fix/int, from both of you)

(10)

(8)

(We’ll finish real quick)

The work takes the better part of a day, instructed by Ande, and finally the last of her power cables are gently disconnected. The lights in what remains of her head turn off for the moment, and the remains of her mechanical body go limp. The core looks intact, and with the connectors in good shape, the UNW should have no trouble getting her connected to another frame

“Perfect” says Proceus. “Can I take a look at what you found?”

(Can I ask exactly how rare/valuable is a VI in this sector?)

(You ain’t gonna sell him are you! Lol)

1:30 PM

(That’d be like slavery)

(Extremely valuable, to the point where I don't let a PC play as one because it invalidates the entire point of working with other people.)

(Na lol, just want to know how big of a find this is.)

(its a major find. The current UNW vi are actually all in use by factions, the UNW doesnt actually have oneof their own as a polity)

(NICE!)

(Wait, scratch that, Gudrun has one that helps monitor its labs, but nothing doing trade or anything else)

(Ya think I can bribe him into teaching me some tips?)

(Also glad the name 'Ande' caught on thank you very much.)

1:31 PM

(Not sure how you'd bribe a VI but you can certainly try.)

(Now how do you bribe a VI?)

1:32 PM

(Exactly. Maybe batteries?)

(xDDD)

1:33 PM

"Good job. Well this was the most major find of mine. Only thing left is the equipment scattered around the facility from this inventory 'she' gave me." Venser pulls out his compad and shows Proceus the list.

1:35 PM

"I've alerted the Cornelius Hardt. Haven't gotten a response yet but this stuff probably also wouldn't go amiss with them, might need some extra help of their's hauling all of it though."

“Ima steal that gravcar from you tho. If I train enough, I can drive that forever”

"Hey be my guest, you're the one driving it back though..." Venser chuckles.

(the lighters can come down whenever youre ready)

“Alright, lets load up!”

(cue montage of loading heavy weapons)

(Yeah, if I can take a tripod then I can be like a rifle sniper. It has decent range.)

(oh and a robot body)

(You just see two men loading a body onto a ship)

(the tripods are part of the heavy weapons so they can be braced. There is an actual bonus you can get in combat for shooting from a prepared firing position where specific equipment doesnt matter, but you need to spend at least ten minutes setting up, and obviously that has to be done out of combat and in a feasible way)

(nothing to see here... begins whistling)

(Sounds nice, I just need to get ammo. Hope they have some in the armory)

(All the machine guns come with one belt) (edited)

1:43 PM

4x portable mortar with 20 HE shells, and 4 star-shells 4x Heavy Machine Gun, tripods included- 1 belt for each in box 2 x Railgun - hard rounds missing 1 x Combat rifle- hard rounds missing 6 x Fragmentation Grenades 2 x Lift Serum A hangar on the side of the building has a grav car inside, the Type B cell inside has 38% of its charge left

(And whats up with the railguns? Are they personal weapons?)

(They are heavy weapons, basically mounted versions of 'mag' guns which we can by.)

1

A flock of cargo lighters from the Cornelius Hardt begins descending from orbit, and the vehicle, heavy weapons, and miscellaneous other equipment are loaded into the hold. The captain has taken the job of contacting the local government and explaining to them that the base is largely intact, and the area is capable of being resettled with some dedicated work. The food and water situation is relayed in great detail, and its now up to the local government to decide what to do with the facility. The ruin dive is completed, and you make your way back into space aboard the last of the cargo lighters. The equipment is being stacked up on the deck, under the watchful eye of the captain. Ande is taken into secure storage. The navigator is also present, and it seems that a course change back to Gudrun is being ordered

“Hey, Cap! What about the CSF?”

"Thanks for the assist by the way, enjoy the haul." Addressing Proceus and the Captain. (edited)

“No prob, it was fun, and the loot was pretty nice” he says as he pats the rifle on a sling. He may have no ammo, but he thinks it looks cool

1:50 PM

(Aren’t these artifact weaponry, and they can adapt to diff types of ammo?)

(No, they're not)

(Welp)

(There's plenty of ammo around I wouldn't worry bud.)

"We're heading back to Gudrun. With what you found, and now our special passenger, we're not going to risk running into anyone or anything else out here. As much as I wanted to be the first to get a report back to home about the CSF, if they even get a whiff of what we have on board, they're going to take it from us if they have any kind of sense

1:51 PM

"I dont relish the idea of fighting off an entire space station full of boarders, and I'm not going to put my crew in that kind of danger

“Sadly, agreed” says Proceus. “I really don’t mind though, as any place I can explore is good enough for me”

(3xp, 5000 credits to each of you from the mission, your share of the salvage once sold to the UNW, comes to an additional 20,000 each)

"A sound plan, no complaints from us Captain."

1:54 PM

(Holllllllllllly nice)

(Oh yes) (edited)

1:55 PM

(And a welcome lvl up)

1:56 PM

(Still can’t build The Cheapskate though, or start my company) (edited)

(You cant start a faction until lvl 10 anyway)

1:57 PM

(even if you have the money)

(Ha, give it time.)

(Yup, just goals)

(2 days to return home from Craytulus for downtime purposes)

(Sylth)

(Taros)

2:12 PM

(Also Proceus if you want we can practice communicating telepathically with my 'facile mind' ability and if we do it for a week I don't even have to commit effort to talk to eachother telepathically.)

(Ooh, alright) (edited)

(Ok I'm all updated, nothing fancy this time, just used my 3 skill points to get TK - level 2 and picked up the technique which means I don't have to commit effort for the core technique.)

nice

2:18 PM

(That was telepathy)

2:18 PM

(I think)

(ha, awesome)

where we goin?

home

The ship returns to Gudrun after the short jump home, and the gear and Ande are unloaded. A scientific team from the lab in Central manages to extract the core, and plan to make a new frame for it. It will be some time before Ande is able to begin work. The captain seems relieved to be home. Long days of worrying about the precious cargo within have taken a toll on him and he is quick to make it to one of the passenger lifters back to the surface for a well deserved break.

"So what now Proceus?"

“Well, we can go learn some martial arts, keep working, and that’s about it man!”

2:34 PM

“I have an idea for a cheap vehicle that doubles as a spaceship without a spike drive, but it’s expensive for cheapos like me”

“For now, ima steal that gravcar and take it out for a spin”(can I practice pilot?)

(the gravcar was sold. that was where a good chunk of your money came from. you can steal it but you'd actually be stealing it, and I cant guarantee it will be a safe mission. The only way to train a skill is through spending points, or spending the number of days of downtime needed to level it up, in this case 90, so no)

(So i won’t steal it, and ok)

2:56 PM

(How bout I find a master of silver petal style)

(you can try to locate one, again, we have to do some actual work, we're not going to video game it) (edited)

(Sorry for that, I will rp the whole thing)

(lets go to your channel )

Before Venser leaves he makes sure to get updates on Ande's progress as he'd like to check up on 'her' every now and then.

3:28 PM

Venser then makes for the Psi Academy. (Where is it?)

(Central, the human settlement on Gudrun)

3:34 PM

(they have some satellite campuses in some of the Taros cities, and on other planets, but Central is the main one here)

Venser takes a long stroll through central. A chance to stretch his legs after being cooped up in a ship for a while. Heading in the direction of the Psi Academy’s main campus. He pulls his compad as he walks to get directions and research what exactly is involved in applying, getting into and training at such as academy. Very apprehensive at the prospect but wanting to push himself and therefore researching every aspect to give himself some comfort.

This branch of the academy is run by Dr. doona Ahn , a diminutive Korean woman with a heart of gold. An aging repair droid called Grandfather sweeps the front stoop of the building , getting the most recent fallen leaves into a dustbin. The academy front doors sit atop twelve wide marble steps. The words PROTECT, NURTURE, EDUCATE, SERVE are carved above the entryway

8:12 PM

(There’s an actual floor plan under the psy academy folder on Roll20)

(The Nova Academy?)

(That’s the one)

Oh, Dr Doona Ahn. She was one of the primary researchers into the scream. Venser thinks as he climbs the steps putting away his compad. He stops for a moment and admires the carvings. Taking a deep breath, he presses forward into the foyer, his senses of crippling trepidation and boundless curiousity in a bitter struggle over him. (edited)

A woman with black hair, long and pale skin sits behind the desk typing away on a large computer set up. A venus crow caws in annoyance at the opening of the door, and she looks up, the panels moving away from her as she stands to greet you. "Welcome to the Nova Academy, the psychic authority branch on Gudrun. My name is Crane. How can I help you today?"

"Hi... I've suffered with MES since childhood. And... sorry I'm really not sure how to start this. I'm here to learn? About my abilities, about myself. I've heard this is the place to go."

Her face turns to an expression of concern. "Sir, you've come to the right place. Have you undergone any kind of psychic refinement or training before? are you at risk of torching?"

"I've recieved some advice from some 'sage' types over the years who could tell I was sensitive. Other than that my use up until this point has been entirely instinctual. I don't believe I'm at risk, I was stuck in cold sleep for a long time on the verge of doing so fully." Venser briefly displays the scarring on his temples.

"Alright, so your powers are not entirely free to run. Good, we dont need to start at the very beginning then. So you've come here hoping for some instruction, and what else?" she asks.

"Potentially some work? I could use it. Especially something that might make become more comfortable with my powers. For so long I avoided places like this, thought they were nut houses that kidnapped sensitives in the night and banged them up for good." (edited)

"Maybe on some worlds, but Headmaster Fate is doing his best to make the new psychic authority a place of learning and compassion. We were founded on what I think are better roots. I felt like you did once, I was scared of powers, and thought that coming some place to get a hold on them was going to see me dragged into a padded cell, or my brain inside a jar somewhere"

1:00 PM

"As you can see, that didn't happen"

"That's definitely encouraging. Thank you for you help, I'm a bit of mess when it comes to this stuff."

"It is not an easy conversation to have, even among friends. You'll find plenty of those here. You said you're here looking for some work though? "

"I can always use work."

"The academy is looking into Rawhani right now. The megacorps that we helped overthrow there recently had some sort of technology that could detect psychics. Metapsionics, in a device. i am sure you understand how concerning something like that could be falling into the wrong hands. We're still going through the process of propping up a new local government, and going through the assets that corpsec there was using to oppose us. We could use a representative of our own looking around out there, trying to see what they might have been using"

"That sounds incredible. Terrifying... but incredible."

“The UNW military is on the planet. You’ll have some support if you need it, but we would like to have one of our own representatives there. It’s a big job for someone walking in the door but there are so few of us now. “

“So long as I can recieve some training before hand. To make both the academy and myself feel more comfortable.” (edited)

(so, by the book, getting to lvl 0 takes a week of training in its most abbreviated form. Pre-scream, training would be done over years in an actual school like program to produce truly refined psychics. We can play that out, or at least spend the time, but we can't go beyond 0 without spending sp from level up, ect)

(Ah ok, I don't really need to get to level 0 in any discipline. Didn't really know what academy training offered so I'm happy to just say I did some training in game.)

"I can help ensure the MES channels in your brain are secure, and solid. It is one of my specialties, aside from that, we can offer some introductory classes..." Time passes as you and Crane begin working together , and the particulars of your assignment come in.

(So for continuity can I say I spent a couple of weeks learning from Crane to control my MES channels through learning about teleportation as a new power and getting it to level 0? And maybe maintained my Taros studies in the evenings. So I become a secure member of the academy with some experience? Sorry I've just been thinking about this over the day.)

(thats perfect, we can do that)

(nice! thanks)

4:32 AM

Venser spends his time learning from Crane, slowly becoming more confident in himself as a new ability manifests; teleportation. Still in its very early stages but its emergence allows him to retrain the pathways in his brain essentially from scratch. While continuing to work on his Taros in the evenings.

Crane is pleased. “You have done well. Teleporters have done great things for our country In the past. Silvano Mazzio was our first if you can believe that. He was a good man. Just a little strange once all his powers came in. Anyway. How do you feel now. Do you think you’re ready for your trip to Rawhani?”

"I keep hearing and reading such great things about him, I aspire to his level one day. Thank I feel so much more secure and would be honoured to be given the chance to repay all your investment in me by doing this."

“He was a good man. There’s a patrol boat in orbit that will be heading out to Rawhani, your cabin on it is set aside. I’ll remind the captain you’re coming but aside from that, keep your wits. We will see you when you return”

"Thanks for everything Crane." Venser finds transport to the patrol boat.

The patrol boat itself is landed in the air/space port in Central. It’s ramp is lowered and the crew of mostly engineers is preparing to get aboard. As much space as possible has been saved to help with any vital cargo. The captain is the same that was commanding the Cornelius hardt, and he smiles as he sees you approach

"You've gotta be kidding me! I thought I escaped you!" Venser jeers playfully, smiling as he walks up to shake the Captains hand and get underway.

“Yeah the Hardt is in for its year end refit, and I needed a few more hours to keep my certification for the year. So what do you think? Rawhani. No battle to jump into this time at least. That’s something”

(Is this suppose to be a secret Psi Academy mission that I shouldn't say anything about?)

(Not really a secret

(Ah yeh mb I’m the psi representative along with UNW military)

3:19 PM

“Definitely an interesting case, there might still be some resistance kicking around, but this time I’m actually the academy’s ambassador as we comb through the mega corpse. Pun intended.”

“Right. They had some interesting tech and by interesting I mean terrifying. Maltech isn’t something to be played with lightly. Anything we can recover means it’s something that won’t fall into the wrong hands”

"Right, apologies as a psyker I tend to let terrifying things interest me." Venser gives an informal salute as he boards the patrol boat. "Lets get to it!" (edited)

(3 days of downtime between here and your destination, if you're working on anything)

(How am I doing with Taros? If it's not completed then that.)

(this is normally something you're to be tracking yourselves, but let me read through the thread and figure out how many days we've spent)

(Oh no don’t worry)

10:19 AM

(I’ve been keeping track I just didn’t know how many days I spent at the academy)

10:20 AM

(I was 3/30 before the academy)

(7 at the academy)

10:20 AM

(and 3 on the flight here)

(Ok so I’m up to 13/30 by the time I arrive, thanks)

Rawhani is a wasteland world that has been stripped nearly bare by the long work of several mega corporations. Most of the fighting has come to an immediate halt , corpsec soldiers held no real loyalty once the paychecks stopped coming , and those resisting the UNW now are those trying to vie for political independence rather than a re in statement of the former corporations

Venser comes out of his private quarters once the jump is over to watch the planet from orbit on the view screen/observation deck and awaits landfall. (edited)

“Wretched place” the captain says, joining you at the balcony overlooking the planet below

2:45 PM

“Your way down will be ready in a few moments”

"It's never the place, always the people. This right here is why I tried so hard with the Jademane, this is what corporations allowed to run rampant creates. I don't want that for Aliah. I spent most of my life in the void sustained by technology and I find it marvellous, but if this is the what it does unchecked to so much green I've never seen, it can stay in the void." (edited)

He laughs under his breath "You're right in that friend. Alright, your shuttle is ready. You're going to be dropping into Neptune Microsystems. A squad of UNW soldiers is waiting for you on the ground, and they'll keep you safe on your way through the city to the site the academy is having you look at"

“Thank you Captain. I hope to reconvene soon, it’s always a pleasure serving with you.”

2:25 AM

Venser shakes the captain’s hand and leaves to board his shuttle.

The small lighter is loaded with yourself and some small supplies for the local forces down planetside. There is a shake, and a rattle as it slides off the launch ramp and into the atmosphere. It begins streaking downwards, and the walled beehive like city of Neptune Microsystems comes into view. The walls sag in a few areas from the siege, but the UNW banner flies from the corners of the corpsec skyscraper, where the director of this medium sized local branch once sat. The streets seem like they're slowly being cleared of derelict cars and trash, and you see several UNW patrol cars from up above on their way down various city blocks. A small section outside the city wall has been paved, and landing lights begin to click on. A squad of troopers waits for you as you set down, ramp extending before the engines even power down

Venser walks out to greet his escort and gives another informal salute "Hi all, you're here to take me to this point of interest for the academy?" (edited)

"We are, and to externally secure the site once youre there. The city is pretty quiet, but anything can happen. The situation inside Neptune Microsystems remains fluid"

"I understand, I greatly appreciate your presence." Venser shifts his leather jacket over revealing his holstered hand canon. "I'm no pushover myself though." As he strides into the group. (edited)

"If the guns come out, something has already gone terribly wrong. I hope to the gods you leave here with as many bullets as you arrived with. alright APC is here, lets load up everyone"

4:21 PM

(oooooooooooooo that's badass)

2:53 AM

Venser takes his place in the APC. (edited)

The side door closes, sealing up with a hiss of air pressure and you feel the twin engines begin to cycle on. The roof turret hatch shuts and the turret controls are patched in to a screen inside the vehicle.

8:41 AM

“Site we are investigating Is a former Neptune Microsystems lab”

8:42 AM

“We have no idea what they were doing I. There or what defenses might remain inside”

"Sounds fun." Venser says sarcastically.

10:13 AM

"I've been given some reports about possible maltech hidden away in there by the academy, are your squad going to accompany me?"

“That’s the rumor anyway. We are going to remain close by for help if needed” There is a loud bang in the street outside and the vehicle comes to a halt, it’s tires screeching and crunching on the pavement as the brakes lock

Venser's head whips around to the direction of the bang inside the APC, he turns to look at the sergeant "Civil unrest?"

“I think so. Someone get on those turret controls and I need three people with me. Let’s check things out”

"Am I to stay here or come with you? Trust me either is fine by me." Venser instinctively has a hand on his holster and a psychic flare in his eyes.

“Your call. Your level of risk “ the squad leader says as he makes his way out the back ramp

Venser just breaks into a wide smile and draws his revolver following the soldiers down the ramp and out.

Outside 50m down the street a barricade of burning trash and tires blazes away under the wasteland sun. Three human figures wearing mismatched street armor and carting weapons that look even more slapdash are waiting, eyeing the transport covetously

10:10 PM

“If you want to pass, you’ll have to pay the toll. No exceptions”

Venser strolls out from behind the APC but keeping close to its side. "I don't think that's going to happen." Trying to keep the attention on himself as the squad takes positions. "Who are you and why are you here?" (Can I use my telekinesis - level 2 to snuff out some of the fire while I talk)

(Yes you can)

(I do that please)

THe fire begins to gutter out, the telekinesis indistinguishable from the light wind, and it appears the fire is gong out naturally. "We're the Neptune Free Peoples Army, and we're here to ensure tolls are collected and the monies distributed to the workers, where it belongs"

"I see. And what was that noise we just heard?" (Still buying time, what is my escort group doing at this point?) (edited)

(getting into defensive positions, the person inside the APC is trying to get the turret controls going- since it can be operated inside)

2:50 PM

"A warning shot. It was into the air, not at the vehicle. If you look at the front of your vehicle there aren't even any scratches from it"

"Look, I respect what you're trying to do. But we're not paying the toll." Venser's tone switches from lighthearted to more formidable "Move this barricade. Or I will." With his revolver at his right side and a free hand on his left ready for a telekinetic burst. (I'm at the back corner of the APC ready to duck behind it as cover if shit gets nasty, how open is the area?) (edited)

(You're in the middle of a city street, there's trash piling up, boxes and crates and stacks of bags, but otherwise the APC is your best cover)

7:52 PM

"Its not a request. Ten credits, you can be on your way, we'll happily move the barricades for you"

"I could give you five thousand credits, but I fear you would only use it to fund a campaign that would push back the UNW, which in the end would do more harm than good. Please for the sake of your people don't fight us. We are not the corporations, you will have so much more in the way of prosperity and opportunities, and faster implemented than any independent system could do. We are for people not profit."

There seems to be some thought among the blocking crew, before one of the barricade sections not on fire is removed "If anyone asks, you've paid. I hope these opportunities come to pass"

11:02 AM

"Until then, we'll be watching"

As the squad load back up Venser remains in place for a moment "Thank you, I will not forget this." And as subtly as he can floats a chit with 1000 credits on it towards the speaker/leader of the group. After its been taken he opens telepathic contact (using transmit thought and facile mind and commiting effort for the scene) and says "Here, to feed your people. Use it wisely. I don't want to get wind that this is being used for anything illicit, if so I will come back here myself." (and allows them to respond if they wish) (edited)

You sense nothing but a quiet gratitude, and the barricade is moved aside. The freedom fighters seem to melt back into the urban surroundings, away from easy sight, and you also sense the relief of your squad mates, now that the immediate danger has passed

Venser boards the APC again and shares in the relief of the team "Thank you squad, you performed excellently under a tense situation there."

“I’m just glad we djdnt need to shoot. That got tense. Im pretty sure they had more of them in the buildings around us. That could have gone badly”

"I'm sorry if I put you in danger, what's important is that we're safe."

4:34 AM

And Venser quietly contemplates as they all rattle around in the APC moving forwards.

No one in the vehicle seems to have issue with what happened, and you're not bothered again. Arriving at the site of interest you can see it was likely once some kind of secure facility, possibly a prison, though the building looks to have taken at least one direct hit from artillery fire during the siege of the city

Nekosmash pinned a message to this channel. 5/11/2020 11:22 AM

Venser leaves the APC promptly and strides towards the entrance surveying his surroundings. "Okay," he mutters to himself "time to get to work..."

3:11 PM

(What are the soldiers doing?)

(they're external security, so they'd be sweeping the outside, clearing surrounding buildings, probably interviewing the locals and other admin tasks, generally just checking in on the neighborhood and probably trying to distract from the fact that youre inside)

(Oh excellent thanks.)

7:19 AM

Venser makes his way through the entrance way (1) and slowly creeps along the side of the wall. Once just inside he pull his stun baton off his belt and with a flick of his wrist, whips is open like a nightstick as the charge gently crackles to life.

The cage door normally at the end of this hallway has fallen, the brackets torn off likely from the shell that hit this building. The metal dectector and security screening machines are likewise shattered, little more than shattered plastic and shredded metal across the floor. The sound of trickling water into something like a puddle or pool fills the room, though this (1) hallway, is dry.

Venser continues down until the hall opens up (2). (edited)

Two burst pipes have made large lakes of ankle high water on the ground here, beginning to grow small colonies of algae. Something like a control bank is located at the back of the room, and several of the buttons are still lit despite the amount of fallen water on the ground, and general battle damage of the area

He attempts to get to the control bank.

There is enough space on the floor to get there without stepping into the water, and it seems to be able to open the doors, access the cameras and otherwise provide you with enough computing power to help navigate the rest of the way

(What pathways/doors around me are there? I probably open all the ones local to me.)

(north to 9, East to 3, and then you can cross that board and with the door open go west to the hallway between 4/5/6)

8:38 AM

(but there are no locked doors anywhere in this place now, with you having accessed the panel)

(Oh nice, thanks)

8:41 AM

Venser goes east (to 3)

The prison locker room for the guards is now open, after the door retracts into the ceiling. They are all still sealed, though two have been blown open due to the force of the shelling, metal doors deformed.

9:08 AM

They seem to have ordinary uniforms within them, along with stun batons and a few other small personal belongings left behind

9:08 AM

There are six lockers that have not opened

Venser stands out of the way of the lockers and flings them open with telekinesis.

Each of the lockers has a stun baton inside, along with a type A cell that looks to still be charged. Between everything, there is a complete uniform here, and the final locker has a corpsec Combat Field Uniform in it, the bright blue plates and white trim denoting this as belonging to the civil defense division.

Venser makes a note on his compad and takes the 6 type A cells.

10:51 AM

He then leaves (3) and glances down the hallway to the north (9).

(9) is a narrow hallway leading to the main common room where prisoners would have congregated, a sign marked COMMONS hangs on the wall, above the doorway at the end of the hall, before it opens into (11)

Completely his intial scan Venser makes his way east, across the wooden board on the floor and down the hall until it opens up.

(3) and (4) are former Cell blocks, where prisoners of 'dangerous' categorization were kept. special attention seems to have been given to reinforcing the door of (3) and approaching it, your psychic senses become fuzzy, almost like your ability to feel MES or control it is being cut off

(Sorry, do you mean 4 and 5? I was just in 3.)

2:47 PM

Venser immediately recoils back at this sensation. Clearly uncomfortable, he edges forward again staying just outside the doorway and peering in.

(yes, i do)

(Cool just checking)

The room is a veritable torture chamber, with two chairs set up. Each has old blood stains well pressed into them. A small tray of tools made with this same metal, that seems to repel your senses is laid out, along with two cells with bars of the same metal

Venser just shudders for a moment, this is exactly what he had been terrified off all these years. Swapping from stun baton to gun just to feel comfortable, his hand steadies slightly as he holds it up and moves forward into the room. His train of thought becomes increasingly irratic. "Well creepy psyker torture chamber, I'm here for some psychic detecting maltech... Sure let's do this... God I hate myself." (edited)

The tools are pockets of null to your senses as is the rest of the room. A small black sphere sits in the rightmost cell, mirrored and machined finish

Venser attempts to move it with telekinesis. (Not even sure I can use tk in here let alone on the orb but I'm trying.)

The telekinesis shakes the object for a few seconds, and then stops working entirely

8:04 AM

(The sphere would kind of look like one of those torture droids from star wars)

(Oh cool!)

8:55 AM

Venser cracks open his stun baton again and attempts to tap it against the object.

The object opens its several panels and clearly is some kind of drone. There is a strange sensor attached to it, though in this psychic null metal room, itis difficult to tell what it is

Venser, panicking slightly, pulls out a knife hoping to get at some wire revealed by the panels and disable it. (Can I use my fix skill to shut it down?)

(yes fix/int) (edited)

(There's no 'break' skill lol)

9:02 AM

(9)

The drone wobbles, and shuts down, its panels folding back up to the neat and tidy spherical shape

Venser relaxes. He walks over to the doorway of the room and places a grenade on the floor just beside it. Then walks back over and with childlike curiousity sits on the floor with the drone in his lap and attempts to examine and potentially crack into it.

The drone has several attachments concealed behind moveable panels, and the sensor is a glittering sensor vane with a long frond, that looks to be able to uncoil and trail out the bottom while it floated

(Is there any knowledge I can gleam i.e. the nature of the drone/its use or some data retrieval?)

(we can get a program/int, if you like)

(sure!)

11:08 AM

(7)

The drone is fitted with some kind of metapsionic sensor, where other psychics could be detected and identified in a crowd, though in this room it is not working it likely was just kept here after its use in apprehending a prisoner.

"Huh, so this is it?" (Is it big enough to fit in my bag?)

11:33 AM

Venser checks the rest of the room throughly for any more similar devices.

(yeah it can fit in there)

11:36 AM

Aside from the tools and the door/bars that seem to likewise be dampening your abilities, there are no other tools in this room

(cool I'll put it in my backpack)

11:38 AM

He leaves the room and outside in the hall comms the squad to let them know he's found something and is pressing further into the facility.

11:39 AM

Then pops into the standard cell block (5) for a quick check.

You feel your psionic powers begin to return to you upon leaving the room

11:59 AM

The cellblock is empty, but there are bodies in it, with bullet holes in the backs of their heads

11:59 AM

Prisoners here look to have been executed before the place was abandoned

Venser examines the decaying bodies for how long they've been there and if possible tries to ascertain what weapons were used.

12:06 PM

(Oh also mb I collected the grenade I left at the door of 4 back.)

They have been here for at least a couple months judging by the decay. A solid shot weapon was used likely a pistol judging by the angle

After that he rounds the corner of the cellblock finding another hallway and walks down it. (The connector to 6.)

The hallway itself is empty, and ahead it looks like some kind of shower or decontamination block for the prisoners here. Water still trickles from broken showerheads, but thankfully the room looks empty of bodies on your initial glance

Venser slowly walks through, examining the scene but otherwise pressing on into the next room (7) unless something catches his eye. (edited)

This looked to be an armory room once, though most of the weapons have been removed. A large stun polearm is leaned against the northeast corner of the room. A few combat rifles have also been left in their racks, though all the ammunition has been taken. A collar made of the same null material is hanging from a wall peg, along with another of the strange robots

Venser takes the collar and attempts to break its latch so it can never lock onto a psychic again. All the while keeping note of the drone and whether there are any signs of activation. (What kind of attachments did I find behind the panels of the other one?)

(the big thing was the metapsionic sensor, so it can find psychics, but aside from that it had various dart launchers and stun prods to help run down fleeing quarry, this one is of the same pattern)

After, if he can break the collar, Venser tries to retrieve the stun polearm and level it at the drone. (edited)

(yeah its easy to break the latch itself, but holding it for a long time would make you feel sick)

9:49 AM

The polearm needs a type A cell, but otherwise is undamaged

He puts the collar down as soon as possible, feeling nauseated.

9:50 AM

And pops a power cell into the appropriate compartment. (edited)

The blunt stun head of the polearm comes to life, and it crackles with energy. The activation stud near your forward hand likewise glows a steady red, showing it can project power when needed

"Well that's cool." He mutters to himself, as it makes his baton puny in comparison. "Just a shame what it was used for..."

9:52 AM

(The drone is showing no signs of activation?)

(no, it is inert)

9:52 AM

(it would need to be charged as well, and no ones been here for a while)

Venser pokes the drone with the crackling end.

(are you trying to charge it or blow it up)

(Whatever happens happens, but charge it if possible.)

9:56 AM

(I'm kind of intrigued as to how it would react to me, but I'm also weary of it so I'm trying to do that from a safe distance.) (edited)

It seems to get enough energy from the charge to activate, and begins to float , standing at head height in front of you. The small whip like extension sensor begins to protrude from the bottom, and with a loud alarm, it activates its combat mode

10:00 AM

(initiative)

10:01 AM

(4 for the drone)

(motherfucker lol)

10:01 AM

(3)

(for combat purposes, your polearm is a large advanced weapon, and if you bring something to 0 with it, you've got the option to say its non lethal damage)

(cool like my baton, thanks)

(yeah just up-sized)

10:03 AM

(this game doesn't really have 'reach' since meters are bigger than feet, but the upgraded damage dice is a good representation)

10:04 AM

The drone bobs in the air, and fires a tranquilizing dart at the psychic it is detecting. (18 to hit, physical effect save)

(and I'm not going to be able to use tk on this guy since it faded after a few seconds on the other one)

10:04 AM

(17 vs 12)

(yeah, nulmetalum armor, otherwise psychics could just bat them away pretty easily, and the drone now sucks at its one job)

(nice)

The dart hits, but the chemical cocktail inside must have been sitting too long, nothing happens

Venser recoils his hand up to his neck momentarily.

10:09 AM

"Oh shit. Ok lets try this." Venser levels the polearm at the drone and his hand tightens around the activation stud as he attempts to project power at it. (Ok now I'm trying to blow it up.)

(we'll do the attack roll stuff when youre able, but we can for sure follow that up)

(Oh sorry, I'm able now I just didn't know necessarily what the button would do.)

12:13 PM

(Woah ok I rolled the attack for a large advanced weapon, rolled a nat 1 minus 2 so -1 and a natural 10 for damage which I don't get to use loooool) (edited)

The drone weaves aside effortlessly, firing another dart this time it misses, lodging in the deck a few centimeters in front of your boot

Venser tries this again.

12:50 PM

(1 again)

the drone hurtles forward, spike prod extended and crackling with energy, but you're able to sidestep its charging advance

Dashing out of the way, Venser is fed up with this and pulls his revolver. (Main action to do that?) (edited)

(if it was readied, its on an on turn action)

1:00 PM

(so you can still shoot)

(Oh nice so that and then shoot, ty)

1:00 PM

(8)

The shot misses, and the drone begins to lift higher, firing a dart

4:47 PM

(7 , man we keep missing)

(dw, in my head this fight is hilarious)

4:49 PM

(revolver again)

4:49 PM

(20, 4 damage)

This time the shot hits, disabling the drone and it tumbles to the ground

Venser runs over to its shell, pulling out a knife and immediately cuts the same wire as he did with the previous drone to ensure it's disabled.

4:11 AM

"Lesson learned I guess." He says to himself

The second one likewise fits in your bag handily , the sensors and combat systems now inert

Venser gives a sigh of relief. Tosses away the pole, retrieving the cell from it. Reloads the 2 empty shots in his revolver and then continues on to the next location. (9) (edited)

The hallway here is empty and heads towards the final area where it seems most of the psychic prisoners were actually held

Venser crosses and ducks into the room opposite to him for a moment. (8)

This room looks to be a secondary security room, something of a holdfast where guards could retreat if there was a problem. the door is made of the same psy dampening material, but this room lacks the objects of torture the other room contained

Venser has a quick rummage through and if nothing unseemly turns up, heads into the large room ahead (11).

11 is the common area where prisoners were kept and allowed to mingle, as much as possible. there is a small machine under a tarp in the corner of the room, that looks to have hastily been buttoned up

He moves towards it, gun out, attempting to stay close to some form of cover.

There is a pillar holding up the ceiling, matched with three others in this room, and the tarped object remains inert as you approach

From the cover of the nearest pillar, Venser turns around its edge in line of sight with the object, and gently shifts the tarp off with telekinesis.

underneath, some sort of large but wheeled scanning device, that looks modular, as though it can be loaded into a vehicle, sits on a grav sled, currently without power. More of the psychic sensing veins you'd seen on the probes are housed in ports along the side of the machine

Venser pulls out his compad and messages the squad outside: "Objective located, investigating. Standby, could require assistance with extraction."

5:01 PM

He then pulls out of cover, revolver up in front of him and moves towards the machine.

The machine is inert, unpowered and silent, but the grav sled is on and is on standby power

(Were my orders more 'search and destroy'? or 'search and recover'?)

(Find. They didn’t know what it might be, depending on what it was recovery might have been too dangerous )

5:09 PM

(You’ve got latitude with either decision )

(Ok, thanks)

5:18 PM

Venser circles around it and technologically evaluates the machine, being as careful as he can while still poking and prodding at it.

The machine does little in reply. A type B cell of it’s own is needed to run the machinery independent of vehicle power

Venser, feeling a little silly at his overeaction, makes a note. Then continues to the next room (10).

There is a strong stench of rot, almost nauseatingly so as you begin to close in on 10, and the security door rattles upwards

Venser momentarily recoils at the smell. Despite the fact he knows it will have a very limited effect he attempts to disperse it via telekinesis by pushing fresh(er) air around. Then proceeds forward. (edited)

(i know pressure field is an eventual skill you get that can make a bubble)

(Oh I have that)

There are over a dozen bodies here, all executed and left to rot. All almost assuredly the psychic prisoners that were held here. The execution was done in the same manner, and the bones all have the same collars around their necks, dulling any kind of MES senses they might have had.

11:36 AM

They faced death as normal people, and many of them were holding hands when it happened

Venser takes a moment of silence aside to mourn. And gives them a full proper salute this time.

11:42 AM

He then moves through the bodies removing the collars one by one no matter how vile a task it may be, out of respect and pride in who they are and what they suffered. Some part of him is also holding onto a vain flickering hope that they may have been a biopsionic among them who had planned for this. "Please, please... Just this once..." His mind at once both reserved to the reality and racing with possibility. (edited)

(notice/wis)

(5)

(You do have a re-roll token from the aliah RP, if you want to use it)

(Good point, I will do that.)

2:11 PM

(9!)

There is a small piece of flesh left behind on one of the bones, that seems hot when you go to touch it. The psions back on Gudrun may be able to help with what comes next, but there does seem to be life, or at least something odd, about the body (edited)

(my original theory was removing the collars might allow for an ability like Quintessential Reconstruction to trigger if it was used before the killing just fyi, but whatever this is cooool!) (edited)

(their powers if theres anything in there would be dampened, and nobody has documented what long term exposure to nulmateneum will do)

2:25 PM

(so its possible they dont have enough in them to 'kick start' the process on their own anymore, so we would need a free nexus or a metapsion)

(oh interesting!)

2:26 PM

(So just to be clear I've now checked all the rooms?)

(correct)

2:30 PM

(just a matter of what we do with this meat hunk, and what we do with this vehicle module)

(great)

2:32 PM

Venser, becomes elated at the sight of this strange phenomena "Yes! YES! Come on buddy don't give up now, we're getting you help."

2:35 PM

He immediately dials over to the squad on comms: "Entire building sweep complete. Two objectives identified-" Venser has to take a break from typing for a moment as he walks back into the common area and has a long overdue vomit.

2:37 PM

A few dry heaves later, Venser stumbles away from the puddle and back to his message: "- require assistance with the extraction of a grav platform and a body ASAP. Contact command, tell them there are the facility is cleared and there are several bodies who need proper burials..."

2:38 PM

Venser then turns around and drapes the tarp back over the device.

Six soldiers, over half the squad come in, and upon seeing what you're dealing with call for heavy lift, and more manpower. A tense half hour goes by, as civilians begin to crowd outside. The heavy lift truck, along with two more APC's, and a flyover by a pair of atmofighters is enough to discourage any troublemakers within the crowd. Before long, over 40 soldiers and specialists are cordoning off the area, and helping you with recovery from the facility

Venser liaisons to oversee the operation, ensuring the grav platform gets powered and loaded, with only the garrisons most trustworthy men put on its detail. Also that the bodies are given a dignified end and proper burials somewhere in the planet, to allow those who would rebel against the UNW to grieve. (edited)

3:09 PM

And orders the strange body is placed in some kind of organic capsule fit for transport, right before this Venser kneels down in front of the near skeleton and calmy focuses to attempt a telepathic link.

(it failed the mental save, link established)

(sorry but why do they have to make a mental save? it's only level 1)

(not somrthing you need to worry about)

(Got it)

7:48 AM

Venser reaches out with his mind to communicate to the withering soul "There's no need to panic, we're getting you help you'll be back soon. Can you tell me who you are?"

My name...what is....what is my name....I....why can't I see anything? (edited)

"You were a prisoner in a corporate psychic detention centre that hated our kind. I am a representative of the United Nations of Worlds, a galatic alliance that helped free this world from the corpos. I was sent here to investigate the prison and found you, you barely survived here through some biopsionic ability we're unsure of yet, we're going to get you help."

You can sense the relief, even though more words do not come. The voice is female, and sounds distant but you can still feel what she feels as intensely as if she was standing here with you. A cryocase is brought from the ship, and prepared for the transport of the remains

"I'm going to maintain this contact when I can. If you have any questions or want some company in what I can only imagine is an incredibly odd situation, I'm here."

1:11 PM

(Do I have anything else I need to take care off before I leave? Like contact someone specific or something.)

(nope, we did what we set out to do, 3xp, 5000 credits)

1:24 PM

Contact is spare on your way back to Gudrun, just short questions about what day it is, and how much longer there is in the trip. The psychic remembers Gudrun and the UNW as it was a year or so ago, when it first began to butt heads with the Megacorps there, but as far as its own feelings in regards to the conflict, it says nothing

(Nice! How many days of downtime for learning Taros is it?)

(3)

(Thanks)

1:33 PM

Venser spends his time hanging around both the machine and the body, continuing his Taros studies and having conversations with the Captain over the course of the journey.

(oh, probably should have asked this, were you reaching out to the academy about this?)

(Nw, yes I was reporting back to them post mission about the device and the body, as you said the psions on Gudrun may be able to help.) (edited)

Dr. Ahn greets you as the ship comes in to land, along with a well built and tall doctor from the hospital in Central. She smiles warmly, and moves forward to gently squeeze your hand as you, and the cryocase come off the ship

Venser returns the gesture "Greetings Dr. Ahn, it's a pleasure to meet you, I've read all about you. I'm hoping you can help."

“I can. I’m about to bring you somewhere sensitive but it’s the only place that I know we have the support to do this. You don’t need to promise fealty to the academy but I do need you to keep what you’re about to see to yourself”

"I believe I can do both after what I've seen, lead the way."

She holds out a crystal pendant, and takes the cryocase from you.

12:00 PM

Upon contacting it, your vision swims

12:00 PM

THE APPROACH A dusty mesa stretches out before you at the base of a mountain. Dozens of large boulders sit scattered around you, and a white spiral is painted with age flaked pigment onto a nearby cliff face. A winding staircase is set into the mountain, invisible if you didn’t know exactly how to approach the mountain base. Hundreds of red-brown terracotta stairs lead up through the mountain to a destination you cannot see. The stairs wind through the mountain, at times opening to create covered passages with the sides open to the sky. Ivy and hardy desert succulents hang from rough-carved window sills. You approach a final landing after hours of climbing, that turns sharply to the left. From down below you can see that after the turn the steps lead to a leveled off rock face. THE TEMPLE You turn the corner, and at the top of the final flight of stairs rests a structure, towered and well-hidden in the side of the mountain. It’s made of stone painstakingly hauled up from the plains below, mixed with the local red-brown variety to form a stunning temple keep. Cracked pots of the same material spill dehydrated dirt and plants long rotted to nothing. Nets of rope like fronds blow in the light breeze, hanging from windows. The doors are sealed, an indent for a key matching the talisman given by Stonetusk. When the key is placed, heavy locks behind the door whirr and click. Deep bangs signal the locking bars disengaging and the large doors swing open, revealing a foyer.

(Wooooooooooooooooow.)

TEMPLE ROOMS From the foyer another set of stairs goes up into a library at the rooms north. The library, which had been in ruins due to long neglect, has been repurposed as a mundane study and teaching area. The new furnishings there are of local make, and the bookshelves once again hold tomes of recovered psionic knowledge. Most of the shelves are still bare. A spiral staircase in the corner leads to the level above. The level above is dominated by a few monastic-looking cells for quiet reflection that make you feel peaceful. A very large central chamber (dubbed the Reflection Room by Silvano) with a crystal ceiling depicts a planetscape showing piggen, animals, and plants all growing strong under a golden sun. In this chamber you feel the most peaceful you’ve ever been (this chamber enhances precognition, allowing you to see further into the future. All psychics have perfect recall of events they've witnessed in the past, allowing you to always get truthful information if something from your past becomes relevant or someone from your past shows up again). The wind whistles through small holes in the stucco outside the towers musically, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

12:05 PM

To the east lies a kitchen, and a ladder going down into a storage room and work space below. Down in the basement you climb down a ladder to the recommissioned machine shop. Grupp has worked in this area extensively and it now doubles as is Archeotech research space. The room has enough powered and hand tools to aid in virtually any kind of project. A secret tunnel behind a tool rack Sil found when he first explored takes you down a hallway carved with stylized piggen murals, ending in a giant piggen head, mouth open. A giant orange, red, and yellow crystal resembling a flame makes the entire room warmly glow. In this chamber you feel raw power coursing through you with every step you take closer to the glowing crystal formation (this room boost telekinesis and lowers the effort of other psychic abilities). The room is a very large dome carved into the deep mountain rock, and there is enough space to manipulate most vehicle sized objects here- though getting them in and out would need teleportation support.

12:05 PM

TOWERS The towers contain other cells for meditation, and the top of the leftmost appeared to have once held pet birds. A small area of leveled ground on the side of the courtyard has been revitalized as a proper garden. Local herbs grow here, along with flowering plants, and creeping vines. The left tower's first floor has been turned into rooms for students, currently able to accommodate five. The second level enhances biopsionic abilities and has been set up as an infirmary. The topmost level (rookery) enhances telepathy. Some of the facilities meant to house birds have been left intact for future use. The right tower's first floor has been set up as housing for teachers. It currently has space for three, intended for Val, Doona, and Silvano. The second level used to be a map room and has been cleaned out to resume that purpose, or to be an administrative planning space, but doesn't enhance any abilities. The topmost level enhances teleportation, doubling the range. For TP-4, a psychic could teleport to the moon.

Venser makes his way around the temple, just awestruck. Eventually stopping to play around with his enhanced abilities in the approriate rooms. After he feels he's seen everything he looks around for Doona.

"Welcome to Shangra-La. This is our temple on Gudrun, away from prying eyes. I see you've walked around a bit, and can feel the power here. We keep this to ourselves, as there are many I can think of who would misuse it. This is a sanctuary, and you are welcome here any time you want. It is a refuge, sanctuary, and place of power for us, all in one."

"I'm deeply greatful you would allow me here. Speaking of, where is here? In terms of space."

"We are in the Gudrun desert, on a mountain range. It is all very much in realspace, just in a place where the barrier between here, and metaspace, is thin"

12:49 PM

You feel a prickling sensation as Doona extends her concert of minds, to let you gain her metapsionic senses

(Btw who is Silvano? an NPC? I've read him being referred to as the Omnipsychic)

(former PC turned NPC, but he was like lvl 30 by time he quit)

12:52 PM

(had almost every book discipline at 4)

(woah, what character does he play now?)

(He's no longer in the game, he got really aggressive with new people and kept teleporting in to shut missions down, bunch of other bad stuff)

12:54 PM

(So I've been NPC'ing him)

(Oh wow, well thanks for telling me anyways.)

12:54 PM

Venser momentarily tenses, before relaxing into this strange new sixth sense and looks down at Doona gratefully, although now slightly struck by her powerful presence.

"You can feel how thin it is here now, can't you. This a temporary borrowing of power, you should be able to employ my own bioscopic powers now as well, and that's great, because between you, me , and Siegfried, this is going to take all of us. Grandfather, my caretaker bot, is making us a large dinner, because we will need it once our work is done. If you have any allergies, let him know"

"Thank you very much, however I think you'll find I have quite a high constitution and appreciate hardy meals inbetween bland ship rations."

2:21 PM

"I'm ready when you are."

"We're going up to the scond level of the west tower, where bioscopy is easier for all of us. We're going to need all the power we can get. It's a bit of a climb. We haven't been able to widen the stairs yet"

"Ah well room full of psychics I'm sure we'll manage."

Venser makes his way there.

Heading up to the second level of the tower you see it is set up like a traditional medical facility , but your senses heighten and you feel the energy of life flowing through the channels of your mind “Alright. Everyone sterilize. We open the case and place the specimen on the bed and from there things get tricky”

Venser is becoming more anxious at the thought of this. If someone like Doona keeps reiterating how difficult this is, do I stand a chance? So far the hardest challenge he's faced in terms of his psionics is retraining his neural pathways while learning the basics of teleportation. And even then his mind was being protected by Crane's metapsionics. Most of what he does with his powers are small displays of convenience and shallow gestaults, things that to him seem instictive and 'natural'. (edited)

3:54 AM

He begins to question whether or not he can handle the kind of effort seemingly required by this, whether his mind will break as it did with the shaper splinter. Although his memories of cryosleep are incredibly foggy he still has a deep seeded fear of torching himself again.

3:54 AM

His heart begins to pound in his chest and he feels a shuddering in the back of his head. He attempts to carry on with the instructions regardless.

The chunk is placed on top of the bed, and she looks on sadly. "we're going to hope this friend of yours is a fighter. Long term exposure to nullmateneum has caused her own normal regeneration processes to fail. What we are going to attempt to do here is in effect, 'jump start' what her body can naturally do, already. Everyone will infuse as much bioscopic energy as they can into the...chunk...here, and we will monitor carefully as reconstruction begins.

8:05 AM

"She will be disoriented, and fearful, when she reconstructs. Be ready for anything"

Venser takes a deep breath and ignores the shuddering. "Ok... Ready."

8:34 AM

(How does this work mechanically?)

(we're going to make a bioscopics/wis or int check, as you begin applying effort into the chunk)

(Do I have temporary skill in bioscopics?)

(bio 4, since youre in her concert of minds)

(11)

2:13 PM

(Huh who would have thought good modifiers make a difference)

There is a pulse of energy directed into the chunk from the three of you, and the surface begins to bubble. This boil is organic, thousands of cells reproducing at rates they were never designed to undertake, all happening at once.

2:29 PM

"Another shot" Doona says, sounding distant, but somehow close

Venser is trying desperately to remain calm and collected, shutting his eyes both for concentration and to shield himself from the light.

2:49 PM

(Another check?)

(Yes please)

(11 again)

Bones begin to bleach back to healthy white, before being sheathed in red muscle. The body glistens, and there is once again a heartbeat. Monitors begin picking up bio-readings, as the corpse re-assembles, and continues to grow. "Once More" Doona says, now looking quite tired. "This will help push the body over the hump, and it can finish the reconstruction of her features on its own"

Venser opens his eyes again and they adjust to the glow. Now with an adrenaline fulled fearful excitement, he looks on in awe at seeing essentially a timelapse of a body reknit itself. His hands pulse again.

2:57 PM

(8)

"Yes! Yes!!" Siegfried cries, as the body begins working overdrive. "Alright" Doona says, sitting down in a chair nearby, exhausted. Grandfather bot comes into the room, and rolls a tent like fabric divider between the reconstructing body, and the rest of the room.

3:01 PM

"We have about a day before she wakes up. I myself need to remain here to monitor things. Dr. Siegfried has surgery in the morning, and Mr. Reach, I am not sure what your plans are"

Venser, now drained running purely off the adrenaline his brain is soaking in, begins to moderate his breathing to calm himself. "Well..." He starts "I have some small business to attend to on Gudrun, just a few visits to make. But I'd also like to be here when she wakes up, I do feel somewhat responsible for her. Also I'm the only voice she's heard so far..."

3:06 PM

"Regardless, thank you so much for your help I indebted to you. And for entrusting me with the knowledge of this place."

"Shangra-La will always be open to you. Keep that pendant. It's the key to the front gate. You do not need to ask permission or account to anyone about when you use this place, or for how long, we simply ask your respect, and to help keep the grounds clean"

"Oh I can certainly do that! Cleaning was one of my myriad jobs aboard the station I grew up on, and this place is a damn sight nicer."

She smiles, warmly, and smooths out her plain grey scrubs. "Well, there's only two things left to say. Lets eat!"

3:14 PM

Dinner is a myriad of dishes from her home planet, mostly Terran Korean and general easter fare. Grandfather has been programed to make them expertly, and although some of the more standard seasonings have not been found or re-grown.

Venser digs in to the first home cooked meal he's had in a while. Complimenting Grandfather frequently on his skill and programming and discussing the nature of psionics and various other salon topics with Doona and Siegfried as much as they seem up for it.

3:19 PM

(What kind of work does Siegfried do?)

(Chief of surgery for the Central hospital, also the first biopsion to come out of hiding after the scream)

(Ah ok, I was considering getting Holdout Cavity implanted for the pendant, don't want it falling into the wrong hands.)

(He would be able to do that for you)

(Ok cool, btw how would I get back to central from here? Could I teleport that far from the enhanced room?) (edited)

(yes, you can teleport to central from up there)

(

)

5:34 PM

Venser rests up best he can after a delicious meal. Still worrying about what will come of this woman.

Night begins to stretch on, and there is a stirring from upstairs. Several of the monitors attached to the regenerating body begin to beep gently

Venser awakes, alarmed. Likely having a dream in which the beeping bled through, violently disrupting his subconcious. He collects himself and leaves his room for the medbay.

The body under the diving sheet is stirring. Condensation has misted the vented plastic barrier and it’s impossible to see within, it feels almost like looking into a steamy room. A shrouded human hand seems to reach for the edge of the bed but the barrier keeps it contained within

(I have my equipment on me right?)

10:12 AM

Venser carefully analyses the shifting sheet, waiting for Doona to arrive.

(Yeah everything you have is with you)

2:56 PM

Doona flies up the stars breathless and has grandfather in tow, lifting him with telekinesis to compensate for his slow upstairs speed. She throws back the sheet, and a human woman lies there. Her hair is nearly scalp short, freshly regenerated. Her skin is pale and ruddy pink like a newborn and her eyes are wide, trying to take in all she is seeing and make sense of it

Venser stands there stunned. Still picturing in his head the decayed husk that he found next to this new person. Finally his mind comes back into the room and he works up the courage to say something.

3:02 PM

"Hello... Welcome back!" He smiles coyly.

“It’s. It’s good to be back” the woman says after a moment of disorientation. “I don’t know where here is though. Or what happened”

"I promise soon Doona here and I will answer any and all questions you have. But first, what do you remember? Can you tell me your name?" (edited)

“I....I was 98990087-C , production supervisor”

"Who did you work for?"

“Neptune Microsystems. On the production line”

Venser nods in understanding, if slightly shocked by the idea this person wasn't even given a name by those wretched corpos. He then gestures to Doona to see if she has anything imperative to say or perform.

Doona is observing the vital signs and making a few last minute adjustments. “You’re in Shangra-la. A psychic refuge on Gudrun” she tells the woman. “You’re safe now”

"Do you remember our conversations when I found you?"

11:11 AM

He begins again, nodding to Doona as she continues her work.

"They feel very far away, almost like dreams, or like they happened to someone else"

"What I told you is that you were a prisoner in a corporate psychic detention centre that hated our kind. I, Venser," He gestures to himself "am a representative of the United Nation of Worlds, a galatic alliance that helped free your world from corporate tyranny. I was sent to investigate the prison and found you." (edited)

3:09 PM

"As- " Venser hesitates for a moment. "This might be difficult to hear. As the corpos were losing they abandoned the facility, erased all the data and... executed all of the prisoners, you included. All I found by the time I got there were huddled corpses, I was struck however by the way they met their end, still so defiant and loving."

3:11 PM

"You were all fitted with nullifying collars so you couldn't use your psionics. When I discovered the bodies I removed the collars of each of them out of repect. But I also hoped upon hope that there was a biopsionic among them who might be able to come back from this, if even one life could be saved there was no question!"

3:14 PM

"And that's where I found you. A corpse that showed me, even after all this time, signs of life... I'm so sorry for everything you've been through, but my God, you just would not go gently into that good night... and that is inspiring." (edited)

She tears up no doubt thinking about friends or family members who were likely killed with her in that shower room. "I remember bits and pieces of it. It feels like something that happened to someone else, or like recalling bits of a past life. I guess it almost was. Or is. I have a lot to think about, and I can't find the words to say thank you. You didnt have to do anything you did. Taking the collar off, bringing me all the way here, giving me a chance to come back."

9:17 PM

"I'm millions of light years away from the only planet I've ever known. Aside from the both of you, the only people who were ever good to me died next to me in that shower room, I guess"

Venser takes a blanket and drapes it over her form. Then in quiet understanding just sits down next to her and awkwardly offers comfort. He of all people knows what that feels like. He likely without intention projects this thought telepathically outwards and into the room... (edited)

She goes quiet, and rest her head on your shoulder, overwhelmed by the profound sense of change and loss she has gone through. "So, psychics are treated well here, it seems. you have this beautiful castle you have brought me back to"

"Yes for the most part. This is a refuge built so we could gather without arousing suspicion of a cult or something. Some people are still pretty raw after the scream, but nothing near what you faced. Especially on Gudrun. And it's all thanks to this woman right here and her friends." He gestures to Doona.

She smiles appreciatively at Doona. "Well, there's nothing to go back to. It will be a few days before I'm ready for anything, but I intend to pay this back, and then some"

"I have a few things to take care of in Central; that's the capital of this planet. But when I'm back you will of hopefully have had time to recover and be observed by Doona. You could join me on my next assignment? With all due respect I think we at the academy would feel safer is someone was with you at first. And I'd certainly appreciate the help/company." (edited)

"I understand. I would insist on the same if I was you. I will be here when you return from your errands"

2:13 PM

(3xp, 5000 credits)

(Cool!)

2:19 PM

(Goals updated btw, I threw a bunch that seemed relevant on there let me know if any of them are not proper. I think I've accomplished 'Find a comfortable way to train my MES' ?)

(yes you have)

(excellent I've levelled up then)

LEVEL 4 

Stab to 0
Teleportation to 1 (Proficient Apportation chosen)

Health from 9 to 18 (4d6 + 4)

3:07 PM

(for future reference how strict are you with the 'psychics must spend at least 1 sp on psychic skills' idm just curious)

(if you don't have anything or any way to spend it you at least have to bank it for future use, but its a hard rule) (edited)

(good to know)

(if youre saving up for a level up in the skill that is fine, but you have to bank it, basically as long as youre not taking that skill point and using it for a non psychic thing , its fine. the SP allocation is a core of character creation and defines how they're all different, so we're very strict on that)

(totally fair, if I got 2nd level in my psychic training though would the skill point I got each level for telekinesis count? At least for as long as I had telekinesis skills to gain.)

(I believe we figured out that it does)

(I am reading this as do you get a technique if you level up the skill using a foci

3:31 PM

(Is this what you are asking

3:35 PM

(The free points for the foci doesn’t count toward your mandatory spending )

(I meant that level 2 psychic training foci gives you 1 skill point every level for a certain discipline, would spending/saving this skill point count?)

4:13 PM

(Ah I just read OOC)

3

4:13 PM

(Thank you kindly, sorry if that was confusing)

4:14 PM

(Also, people read my thread?? xD)

(

)

1

You leave shangra la feeling a bit better about things and a bit stronger. The peaceful energies of the place seem to have focused you

Venser finishes his nights sleep feeling more restful than before in the knowledge that everyone is safe. The next morning he gets up promptly, packs his things and cleans the room ready for the next visitor. As well as thanking Doona for everything. He then makes his way to the top floor to take advantage of enhanced teleportation. With his new found focus, he concentrates on Central and wills himself to be there...

You arrive in Arimoto Park, across from the Central administration building, where Governor Herzigov is working hard to ensure Gudrun runs smoothly despite the war out West. Several war memorials line the park, along with a species of tree brought in from all over the UNW, assuming it was safe for the environment to do so.

Venser's ecstatic he managed to achieve such a feat! Even if his powers were supplemented. He takes a deep breath of that crisp Central air and relaxes, he feels comfortable here and he knows he's safe. He didn't plan to but seeing that he's landed here, he takes a walk around the park, unwinding while paying his repects to the memorials as he goes. (What time of year is it right now?) (edited)

(about to be winter, we're in november 2667 right now)

(cool, also what time of day is it?)

(mid morning)

(ah ok didn't know if there was a time change)

12:22 PM

After looking around at the memorials, Venser decides to revisit his apartment. It's been so long he almost has to bring out his compad at one point to remind himself of it's location.

Dust has settled on most of the surfaces, and you are thankful that everything in the fridge was military ration packs. Nothing in them has spoiled. The lights protest a bit as you come in, not used in some time. You end up needing to recalibrate the home entertainment system when you turn on the wall viewscreen for the news

Venser puts the TV on in the background, attempting to catch up with recent events, as he gets out his supplies and begins cleaning the place. (Full on 80s montage with Baba O'Riley in the background and some dancing with a mop.) (edited)

If your neighbors could see into your apartment, which thankfully they can't, they would be very impressed with your dancing. A few hours later, the place looks as clean as it did when you first moved in.

4

The final song finishes as Venser dips the mop with a theatrical "Yeh!" (thank you so much for that) and looks around at his fine work. He then makes himself some lunch from the rations, slightly disappointed as he's still comparing to the artisan korean food he had the previous night. (edited)

4:13 PM

At midday after he's satisfied, he slings his bag over his shoulder and takes off towards the Psi Academy to follow up on the strange machine he recovered as well as to hand over the probes. (Is that where I'd go for that?) (edited)

(Yeah we can do that)

(Just FYI these are the things I wanted to do while I'm in central: Revisit and clean up apartment - Done Follow up on the scanning machines found on Rawhani Check on Ande the VI being set up Possibly get a holdout cavity installed? Buy some gear, still figuring out exactly what) (edited)

(The taros can install a cavity for you, when we get there)

(Cool not sure what that specifically means but I'm down)

11:19 AM

(So yeh head to the Psi Academy to get the follow up sorted)

Crane is in her usual place at the desk, at the main doors of the nova academy as you make your way up the broad steps. She looks up from her typing and filing as her bird familiar caws loudly. Her face wrinkles slightly as she seems to sense what might be in your bag

Venser notices this and looks at his bag with concern "Yeh I know, its awful. But on the plus side we got it!"

"I'm sorry, natural reaction. Shut the doors and come inside"

Venser does so. Inside he places his bag down on the table and gets out the two black spheres. "Fully fitted with nullyifying capabilities, psychic sensors and uh- methods of disabling prisoners. Found that one out the hard way."

12:54 PM

"I've cut their power they are both fully inert." (edited)

"Thank you for the forethought. wow. So corpsec really was as bad as we thought they were. Well I've got an idea for these, but you saw them firsthand. Do you tihnk if we removed everything but the actual psionics detection equipment, these might be a good tool for us to find psychics in the larger population?"

"Well you might want to give them a new coat of paint, make 'em a bit less terrifying and death-y." Venser jests. (edited)

1:47 PM

He takes a moment to think "Why do you want to detect psychics in our pop?"

She thinks for a moment as to the best way to explain herself "Those with a latent ability they might not know they have, those in hiding, who might be a danger if they're untrained, the list goes on, but I think you can see there are some practical concerns here"

"I'm nervous at the thought of anyone having this technology. I mean no offense of course. I like the idea but not the method. In my earlier years if a probe came knocking to scan me so I could get sent off to an academy, I'd be more terrified and more likely to do something rash. However inadvertantly that kind of fear can cause outburst of psionics more dangerous and frequent than those just left alone."

1:56 PM

"I understand the argument for those who don't know about their MES. But those in hiding have their reasons for it, we only get them to come out of the shadows once they trust the academy and feel they can come forward themselves, like me! Not when they are publicly identified as 'freaks'." (edited)

"That makes a lot of sense, actually. I suppose we could talk to the headmaster about it, see what he thinks we should do with them, even if it ends up just being something we destroy. What do you think?"

"Oh it's definitely worth the debate, that's just my 2 credits, I can see how this tech would indeed be very useful. I just worry." Venser chuckles, his anxiety very present. (edited)

She leads you to an office where the long range phone system is linked up to a viewscreen that takes almost the entire wall. " @Regulus/Grupp Headmaster Fate, this is Crane, and Venser at the Nova Academy on Gudrun. Sorry to disturb you. Mr. Reach here has found some interesting psychic technology on Rawhani, but the applications of it might be a bit...disturbing. I'm going to let him fill you in a bit, on how his mission there went and we can discuss how these detection drones might be best used, or best disposed of"

What seems to be a humanoid robot appears on the viewscreen, currently sitting cross legged and hovering a few feet off the floor, surrounded by floating scraps of paper and a few books, inside one of which a pen scribbles in small tidy script. He looks up as the call connects, "Ah, lovely to see you miss Crane. And Mr. Reach. Rawhani was one of the few remaining systems that clung to such antiquated beliefs as psychic discrimination. The academy and I appreciate the retrieval of anything that could be used against us, hopefully so that it can be repurposed or if need be destroyed."

“Good to see you too headmaster. Mr reach here has actually dealt with the artifacts in question here directly and I’ll let him talk briefly about his mission to rawhani “

"Hello Headmaster! It's a pleasure to make your aquaintance, I'm so greatful for all you do here at the academy. I myself have benefitted greatly from it's service and I must commend Crane for her fantastic tutelage, you should be proud."

11:01 AM

"As you no doubt know I was sent to Rawhani to investigate a prison compound Corpsec had used to hatefully imprison psychics. Rumour of maltech that could detect a person's MES was in the air and of great concern. I sweeped the facility and found two probes and one large mounted device, all of which seemed to contain the capabilities rumoured. I have handed them over to the academy as tasked but we are now discussing what's to become of them in terms of either their application or destruction."

"Furthermore I feel obliged to inform you that I found the bodies of all psychic prisoners, dead. They were all killed quickly on mass as we began to turn the tide on Rawhani and they purged the facility. You must know they faced the end bravely and together. And I ensured they were all given proper burials. However they were all wearing collars that were dampening their psychic powers. Out of respect and pride in who they were I removed them all personally and a wild theory in the back of my mind came to reality as I did so. I had held out hope that a bioscopic with regenerative capabilites might be among them and that by removing the collar this would kick in. I found one corpse, barely a skeleton by that point, with a single patch of warm flesh upon it. Prolonged exposure to the nullmateneum in the collars meant this regeneration was stunted, but it was still possible. I ensured transit back to Shangra La, where I assisted Dr Ahn and Dr Siegfried with restoring her. She is now recovering after a very traumatic experience but would like to do something to give back to the academy. I thought she might accompany me on my next mission if you would sanction it, so I can keep a close eye." (edited)

Regulus bows his head and is silent for a moment out of respect for those lost, "That you could save even one is a blessing, thank you Venser. It would be best for us to watch her carefully, if you feel you are up to the task and if she is well enough then she may accompany you. Nulmetanium is something heavily regulated through an agreement of the academy and the governor of Terezinho, recovering that alone is very helpful. This technology that detects psychics is very concerning however. Have you tested whether it can trace metapsions or nullifiers through their respective shields?"

Venser shares the moment. "You honour me Headmaster. I have not, we called you shortly after I arrived to follow up and hand the probes over."

1:40 PM

"That would however require activating one the probes. I cut their power. For good reason. I had an encounter with one that was active in order to see how it responded, it has several attachments dedicated to restraining prisoners and attacked on detection. But they can be restored, potentially minus the more harmful parts." (edited)

"Yes, that would be ideal. We have many contacts if you need additional expertise to adapt or reprogram the probes. It would be good to know the extent of the technology. If you have other things to attent to we can study this ourselves, just leave the probes with miss Crane. If you wish to look into this personally I suggest taking them to Rebirth labs and ask for Val to help you."

"I have a few days before I must return I can look into this. Thank you very much I will take advantage of the resources you can offer."

2:23 PM

"Although I think we would like to discuss with you the larger implication of such devices. Before we ask if we 'can' we might ask whether we 'should'?" (edited)

Regulus nods, "You are wise to ask. But whether we choose to utilize such technology or to destroy it, it is better to understand it rather than remain ignorant. Speaking of resources, you yourself have proven quite resourceful. Would you be interested in joining the academy as an employee? We are always looking for capable agents to further our cause."

"I'm still anxious at times and question the fragility of my MES, but the academy has done so much for me to understand and accept it. Rather than running as I've done most of my life. If I can help those like I was, Headmaster. It would be my honour." (edited)

Though his robotic face doesn't show it, you can hear the smile in his voice, "Welcome then, Venser Reach, to the Psionic Academy. Crane can handle the paperwork, but we will appropriate funds to get you started. As an agent of the academy you may also requisition a ship, free merchant class, that academy resources will maintain for you when not in use. Remember that the academy is a neutral faction, when representing us you must treat all polities as your own. Dr. Ahn is head of the UNW branch and can assist you with anything you might need to further our cause."

"While I live in the UNW I have nothing against any of the other polities and I share the vision of the impartial authority you are trying to create. Thank you kindly Headmaster. I'll do my best."

4:17 PM

(Thanks Grupp that was awesome! And of course thank you Neko as always.) (edited)

"I trust you will. I wish you the best on your ventures. Come to Galatea some time, I would enjoy meeting you in person." As the connection ends your compad pings, notifying you of a 100k credit transfer to your account from the academy.

(Shiiiiit. Weird flex but I'll take it!)

4:29 PM

Venser has to pull himself away from the screen as he was strangely encapsulated by the Headmaster. He looks down at his flashing compad "Fuuuuuuuuuuuu-" He stops himself. (edited)

"He likes you" Crane says, as the link powers down and she opens the blinds. "Welcome, I'll get your new hire packet together, and we can discuss getting you a ship put together"

Venser is just beeming at this point. He can't believe he demonised psionics as a boy, here so far they have all been nothing but kind and caring. He feels included for the first time since the last day on Reach Station before the attack... The thought simultaneously saddens and elates him at once.

1

4:45 PM

"After you."

(Thanks Eisheru!)

1

The paperwork comes together after a few hours and crane leaves you alone with the 3D plotting table they use when ordering or working on the ships in service to the academy. Cranes, automated welding arms, and hundreds of human and taros technicians in orbit begin working as soon as a plan is finalized

(Is there any point in spare mass?)

(Any spare mass is cargo space. It's also needed to carry vehicles or mechs)

(Thanks!)

Venser spends the rest of the afternoon into the evening agonising over the table, going through various iterations. He wants to get his first design 'right' but quickly realises that's a deep rabbit hole. One which he happily falls down. At a few points he curses his limited engineering knowledge and vows to learn more. Finally he comes to the name, for a moment he considers honouring his home and carrying on the legacy of 'Reach' but thinks he'll save this for something grander and sovereign of his own one day. He thinks back to his time on the frontier in the interim and how this new sector reminds him of it, if only with far greater hope for things getting better. He mutters to himself as he finalises the details; "Wildstar..." (edited)

2

A small ping let’s you know that the wild star begins the short process of its construction. (6 days iirc) The shipyard is thankful for the business.

(Yeh, excellent thanks. I imagine it's evening by now?)

(Yes, that seems fair)

Venser returns to the front of the building to find Crane. "Everything's finalised! Forgive me it's all very exciting."

"I've known new recruits to spend days in there before, but at least your ship is that much closer to being a reality. I think that largely covers everything. We are always putting out new work orders (the endeavor list) but otherwise, you're not bound by any specific will aside from your own"

"Ha! Really? I was worried I was taking to long, felt like an age!"

12:41 PM

"Well if any specific missions do come up just let me know. I'll return in a few days. To check on the ship and assist you in testing the applications of those probes?"

"Indeed, it sounds like we have the nod to at least look into them more."

Venser offers her a handshake "Thank you Crane. For everything."

She takes it and gives it a firm shake "So you've got a few more errands before I see you again then?'

"Yes, my apologies but I will be back." As he adjusts his leather jacket. (edited)

3:08 PM

Venser turns to walk away before doubling back momentarily.

3:10 PM

"Speaking of which actually, do you have any recommendations as to where I could get some fine donuts and coffee?" (edited)

“I’d check the Harvest Spirits in the morning. If you want them now , there’s usually a cart in Arimoto Park. Guy makes a killing selling the stuff to night admin

“Oooo, perfect thanks!” Waving as he turns to leave.

2:13 AM

(I know the Unity Council is out of time, but I figured for continuity I’d say I use tomorrow for that. And bring some donuts/coffee since that was mentioned last meeting.) (edited)

(sure thing!)

(Cool. How much would that cost?)

(insignificant amount, we dont really need to track that

(Oh ok just thought I'd check)

(So the meeting is going on, but we dont need to stop here. I think next we had either check on Ande, or get the holdout cavity installed)

(Oh yeh, is it cool to check on Ande? If it's awkward to do story wise then don't worry.)

(yeah we can)

1:08 PM

Ande is being kept in the lab, also in Central, and as you approach, the lab VI Mimir scans you briefly, before letting you inside. One of the VI's companion eyebots floats over to you, to guide you to what specific area of the lab youre looking for.

Venser is momentarily alarmed by the scanning and eyebot before realising what's happening and relaxes. He follows along, curious at what other innovations are being researched here. (edited)

Most of the other labs have blast shutters lowered over their windows, but you're brought into a clean and static free room where only the head of Ande remains. The body was evidently too destroyed to be of further use, but it looks like several prototype chassis are slowly being fabricated by its host of controlled robotic arms, on loan from the labs manufacturing section

(Am I alone?)

(with Ande, but yes)

4:01 PM

(I guess you could assume Mimir is always passively watching, but you havent done anything wrong )

(cool)

4:02 PM

"Uh-" Venser feels a little silly talking to a emotionless robot head "Hey Ande! How are you?"

"Venser" the voice says, the same cool and slightly detached voice you remember from Craytulus "It is good to see you again. You are looking like you have been getting some sun recently"

"Ha! It's good to see you too. You can tell?"

“I. Can tell” she punctuates her words. Her eyes click as the frame changes in her mind

Venser just moves past it. "I came to check up on you. What are they doing to you? How are you fitting in?" (edited)

"We're working on a body for me so I can get around. The frame you brought me here in was...a mess, as you know. Only my core could be salvaged from it. I have spoken only with Mimir, and the President since you brought me here

"What have they been telling you?"

"Just the news, asking how I am, and I suppose trying to see where I might fit in to the United Nations of Worlds. They know I am a good and powerful tool, but not how to use me. "

"Huh, I would've thought their be a list a mile long for a new VI. I'm glad they're taking good care of you. Apologies I probably should have been around more myself."

"You have been busy" Ande says back happily. "Maybe I could assist you?!" it says, after a moment of what must pass for the machine thinking

Venser smiles wide. "You know I was just having the same thought! I've just requisitioned myself a ship, a VI is always a useful tool but I doubt it's very high on the UNW's list of priority uses for you..." (edited)

"Perhaps not, but it is better than doing nothing, and you are a friend. Maybe if you ask the council, I can accompany you for at least a short while"

(when should I bring that up?)

(floor business in the meeting, i know you've got other errands so my hope is we tidy those last couple things up by time we get through the other issues there)

(Yeh meeting seems to be going slow though, seems like way less people than last time.)

1:25 PM

"I will definitely do that. It would be a pleasure to have you aboard! Is there anything else you'd like to discuss with me?"

"I think for now that is all. I will await the decision of the council, but I hope to see you soon!"

"Huh... I didn't even know VI's could feel hope? Or friendship..." Venser trails off, his voice both infinitely curious and slightly unnerved.

He snaps back. "In any case, I will let you know as soon as I know." And gives his informal salute.

(i think the only thing we had left was getting a holdout cavity put in if thats still something you want)

(Yeh I had a bit of a shopping list, mostly gear for the ship) (edited)

1:04 PM

(I've got it all priced and totaled out)

(yeah hit me,lets see what you got)

(

ok)

1:39 PM

(Shopping List)
- Holdout cavity (10,000)
- Fine katana (medium advanced weapon) (60)
- Combat rifle and 60 rounds of ammo (330)
- Telekinetic generator (250)
- Type B power cell x3 (300)
- Pre-tech and post-tech toolkits (1300)
- Spare parts x3 (150)
- Survey scanner (250)
- Survival kit (60)
Total: 12700 Credits

1:40 PM

(I think thats it? Are there any major lists of gear/weapons I'm missing from the supplements? Because I can't find much.)

(no pre tech tool kit available, no telekinetic generator available)

(ah ok nw, little surprised at the generator though)

(its not psi-tech persay, but we're only a few years since the scream, even basic psi dependent machinery is a bit of a rarity)

(Edited Shopping List)

- Holdout cavity (10,000)
- Fine katana (60)
- Combat rifle and 60 rounds of ammo (330)
- Type B power cell x3 (300)
- Post-tech toolkit (300)
- Spare parts x3 (150)
- Survey scanner (250)
- Survival kit (60)
Total: 11450 Credits

5:36 AM

(Makes sense)

5:38 AM

(Btw I have nowhere near the carrying capacity for all this, I just wanted it in ship storage/lockers and the katana as an ornamental piece (for now) on the bridge.)

(The ships locker fitting would be considered to have most necessary gear in it, so we can add this as supplemental to that. Normally if you're taking a handful of things the locker is considered to have it, but if you distribute gear to like a whole village for example, you'd need to buy the fitting again as you restock your supplies)

(Oh ok, yeh this was just supplemental, like I would probably keep the combat rifle in the smugglers hold as a contingency for if shit hit the fan.)

Gear is shipped up to the vessel waiting in orbit, and will be placed aboard for your personal configuration once you arrive in space to take possession of the ship. Your recovery from the surgical implantation of the holdout cavity is a few days long, especially in the sense that the skin around the cavity is inflamed. Taros medicine does its work, and after a few days you are up and running again without your skin showing any redness or scarring. Outside of scans it would be impossible to know anything was implanted there.

8:51 AM

By the time you feel well enough to get back to business, your ship is complete.

(Brilliant! No one's said anything in response to Ande, I imagine it might take time to install him so I'm a little wary.)

10:16 AM

In the downtime Venser checks in with Doona and how things are going with Shangra La. As well as practicing his Taros with those taking care of him.

(That would likely be happening during your recovery time as well, if we're rounding on 24 hours with no comment we will say it passes, as per our rules)

(Ok thanks, didn't know that was a thing.)

One morning Venser wakes up in his apartment feeling right as rain. Sitting on the edge of his bed he looks down at the part of his torso in which he knows contains the implant. Momentarily fascinated by the complete absence of any marks of his body reminding him. And impressed with his new tan as Ande pointed out. "I should let them work their magic on these." He chuckles to himself, rubbing one of his scorched temples... He refocuses. "Ok let's try this." Still gazing at the site of the cavity, he takes 3 short sharp breaths in an attempt to 'psych' himself up. "Oh this is going to be so gross!" He thinks before attempting to issue the mental command to open it. (edited)

The compartment opens soundlessly, and without pain. Aside from the exterior being your skin grafted around the hairline seam, it looks like the inside of a normal metal box.

1:19 PM

The work is clean, and when the compartment is closed even you have trouble figuring out where exactly it is

Venser winces slightly as it slides open, eyes closed. After not feeling anything specific he opens one eye anxiously, his faced scrunched up.

1:29 PM

"Ah!!" He recoils, then realising that was redundant, it's apart of him. He stands up, only slightly freaking out. "There is a jewellery box. Inside of me!" His internal monologue calls him out on it: "You paid to have this done idiot." He looks up thinking "Oh yeh fair point..." He looks back down at it again somehow surprised like he wasn't expecting it. "BUT STILL." (edited)

Calming himself, Venser takes off the pendant currently hung around his neck, balls it up and places it inside the compartment and shuts it.

2:55 PM

After a good 5 minute existential crisis, his hand on the closed cavity the entire time. Venser reaches over and grabs his compad off his nightstand, checking for messages/updates.

There are two short messages, one reporting your ship is completed and ready for you with your purchased goods aboard, and the second stating that Ande has also been loaded aboard and is waiting

"Ah, excellent." Venser directly messages Ande with a simple ":)"

2:58 PM

(any word from Doona and our resurrected friend?) (edited)

Doona is still monitoring your friend and has being working to stabilize her powers and provide mental health counseling. The patient is mentally rocky right now and often has nightmares now that she is awake

Venser sends back a short reply "Thank you so much for all your diligent work. Keep me posted. I shall return soon, do you believe she is mission ready?"

3:43 PM

Before getting ready to start his day.

3:47 PM

(Sorry I want to move on but a lot of my stuff is kinda wrapped up with the unity meeting: namely Ande and Rey coming with me to the Jademane) (edited)

3:49 PM

(Either way I have a big ol' list of options for my next moves:

Experiment with psychic scanning drones/evaluate applications
Present counter terms and panic button to Jademane w/ Rey Messi
Former Fleshshaper cluster space exploration
Visit CSF and negotiate for their probe
Psychic Forge on Tsatsos with Billy
Anything that the Psi Academy wants me to do)

(We can set up the mission with Rey first. That’s been on the agenda for a couple months now and we never got back to it )

Venser spends the mean time locking up his apartment and getting acquainted with the Wildstar. (Guess I'll leave out the resurrected woman for now, she could probably do with more time and with Ande and Rey I'm not in desperate need of crew.)

3:20 PM

(Also I believe we added an amendment to the action on Aliah where I suggested giving them a distress beacon or panic button whereby they could ask for help if any external threat came up.)

(they're within a couple hexs of Gudrun, comms will be pretty fast. basically we just need them to agree to let a transmission tower or something else be set up)

(Just getting the kids down and unpacking.) Rey walks up to the ship, “Nice ship, I was told we may be meeting some biopsychics. Any more intel on your side? Errum I’m Rey.”

(Apologies, I'm in the UK so we're a little out of sync.)

5:05 AM

Venser offers a handshake with a warm smile. "Thank you Rey!" He turns looking up at the Wildstar "Just comissioned, this will be her maiden voyage." He looks back at Rey. "I'm Venser, pleasure to have you aboard." (edited)

5:09 AM

"Yes I'll fill you in on the jump but as I'm sure you're aware we are on a diplomatic mission to bring the inherently psionic race known as the Jademane back into the UNW. I was part of the group that re-established contact with them and now we're informing them that we will accept their terms and build up only local space in return for trade. As well as broaching the idea of a transmission tower so they can contact us if need be."

5:16 AM

"They have a... 'tumultuous' relationship with outsiders to say the least, and this is a very delicate situation. But I'm sure you'll do brilliantly, I've been informed by Shriven himself that you have some excellent recommendations?"

“I tracked down someone who was supposedly untraceable in a backwater world. I have some experience with mysterious psionic races. Though hopefully we won’t have to do the same crazy initiation ritual for induction into their council to even speak to them.” Rey pauses and thinks about it, “Hey wait why was I the only one who had to go through that from my group. Did they.?.? They wouldn’t... they did! They pranked me!!! I’m gonna get them back for that!” Rey’s face falls, “Well once I can free them at least.” Rey takes a deep breath, “Sorry bout that, what’s your specialty? I’m a covert type, hopefully that won’t be useful on this trip.”

Venser laughs along jovially "Well you'd hope not but never bad to have in our back pocket. Either way impressive stuff!" "I'm a psyker myself. In fact I've just joined the academy, that's where this baby comes from." Gesturing towards the ship. "All the 'teles' - telekinesis, telepathy, teleportation. Probably some more I haven't found out about yet."

“Always nice to meet a fellow psychic, I’m nullifier, Teleport, Telekenetic, bio and meta. I just figured out how to remove one psychics ability to use their own abilities at the cost of my own while I focus. Costly but that’s why I carry this.” As Rey pats a gun that appears to be a gun grown from a tree.

Venser actually seems slightly comforted by the idea of someone that can restrain his power if need be. "Woah! Pleasure to meet a fellow psychic. Now please, what is that and how do I get one." He jokes but stares almost lovingly at the gorgeous weapon.

“It was a gift from those pranksters on my home planets moon. I don’t know if they can be gotten any more... the planet fell to the empire.”

"Oh. Forgive my ignorance but what empire?"

“Oh I forgot that people up north haven’t heard of it yet, the Extaurren empire. They are a empire based on slavery and religious hierarchy. They conquered my planet after a fierce campaign. I fled north with those I could save to find help. Though that far south it is hard to find anyone willing to mount any kind of resistance or concern.” (edited)

"That's terrible I'm so sorry... The Iron Stars have their wild parts, but thankfully the polities here are much more civil and caring than many Post-Scream." (edited)

“I have noticed that up north it seems so. Though down south it is far more winner takes all. Anyways I’m glad that I found a small bit of stability that I can help my men without having to fight for every day. You ready to load up? I just have my bike as far as cargo goes.”

"I've done most of the prep before you arrived, we'll get that loaded up and then set off." He gives his informal salute before walking back to the ramp. "Welcome aboard the Wildstar."

Rey walks onboard and gets his bike stored in the cargo bay. Then heads to his room. (To Ahial.)

(How much does Ande take care of btw? Does he handle the spike drills?) (edited)

(basically any station you're currently not at, counts as having a crewman there with a 0 in all skills)

12:01 PM

(so trained, but not a prodigy)

(ah, well I have 0 in pilot so I'd do just as good a job)

(So it's 2 hexes, do I need to roll? Sorry I'm new at this.)

(No roll needed, there are no space hazards or anything along the way, but we do have 2 days of downtime we can allocate)

(2 more days of learning Taros I guess)

2:40 PM

(19/30 now)

Aliah and its endless green stretch out below you when you return to the system. There is no evidence of other orbital traffic since your last visit here

"Hey Ande." He calls out to seemingly no one. "What do ya think?"

“Looks, green well I can see where it should be green at least. Can you teleport down or should we land so they see us coming?”

"Unfortunately I can't teleport that far. But yes, they should see us coming. I'll bring her in."

3:41 PM

Venser tries to find a clear LZ that doesn't disturb any flora.

the site where the UNW embassy once stood is clear of trees and free of any major vegetation. The wildstar sets down gently , venting slight puffs of air from it’s fine maneuvering jets

7:21 PM

The ramp begins to cycle up , and the airlock unlocks as it detects the atmosphere outside is breathable

Rey looks to Venser, “Your ship your lead,” Rey nods at the door. As his grow gun disappears into a void.

(Again I'm leaving the grenades and knives on the ship)

3:39 AM

"Thank you Rey." And Venser walks down the ramp onto Aliah.

3:40 AM

(How close are we to their settlement?)

(They're right over the bridge, like within half a kilometer)

(Oh lol ok.)

8:55 AM

Venser leads Rey over the bridge. "They should except us again for talks without an issue. But you never know."

8:58 AM

"Also the Jademane often have telepathic conferences between themselves. So if there's extreme silence that's probably what they are doing."

Rey nods, “That’s what I expected, let’s get going before they start to think that we are an invading army or such. Seems from their history with ships that they have had 2 good and 4 bad experiences.”

"Ha, fair." Venser quickens his pace slightly.

The Jademane begin to gather on the opposite side of the bridge as the ship comes down, watching as the both of you make your way over. The elder you and Proceus had spoken with is here, at the head of the large group, though they are mostly silent aside from the shuffling of f eet and the change of spears from hand to hand

Less phased by the situation and atmosphere after last time, Venser takes a moment to relax and admire the natural architecture as they come over the bridge. "It's me, Venser, again. Greetings all! I return having presented your terms to my Government as discussed. This is a fellow envoy from the UNW." He says gesturing to Rey. "I'll allow him to introduce himself."

Rey bows at the waste doing the hand gestures that he learned on the moon with the Zadack. “I am Reynaldo Messi, thank you for the privilege of standing on your earth and breathing the air freely given. May I approach with my fellow Envoy?” Rey remains bowed while waiting for a response. (The Zadack scared him silly of naturally psychic races. Due to their immense power and prowess he assumes the same here.)

(Ah, cool. Venser was a lot more scared and ignorant of psionics too last time he came here.)

"Stand, please, Cross the bridge and stand with us. You are here with peaceful intent, and the Jademane have no reason to act with hostility"

11:57 AM

"Your respect however does us honor"

"Thank you Elder. You honour us too with your kindness."

"I am pleased to see you again" he says, "Your companion from last time is well, I hope. I see you are here with someone else this time" He looks appreciatively toward Rey.

"Last I heard he is reforming a group, that was once known for their efficiency in bloodshed, into a monastic order on our captial world. He's sorry he couldn't be here but hoped you would appreciate his plight."

12:05 PM

"However I think you'll find Reynaldo is an excellent replacement. And likewise, I appreciate you recieving me so warmly once again."

"You are welcome to rest, but you are back and that means you must have an answer to our requests of the UNW"

"Yes. Would you like to talk in private?"

"Of course" He gestures for both of you to follow, as he makes his way through the recovering city toward the largest building, both public meeting house and humble palace in one

While walking Venser leans in to talk with Rey. "You want the lead on this?"

“If you want but I’m a little out of my element here.” Rey's obviously uncomfortable taking charge but you cant tell why. (edited)

Venser noticing this says "Well ok. I'll start us off, feel free to jump in where you see fit."

(Only jumping ahead a smidge so Rey isn't stuck like this until tomorrow) (edited)

(

)

"Elders, thank you for your hospitality. I'll be totally straight forward. We have one proposal that may cause issue. But other than that the UNW accepts all the terms you've provided us with:

The Jademane have no wish to go to space
No UNW holdings can be built on the planet, but local space can be developed
No unauthorized landings may occur, but the Jademane will designate a space for trade

-No private holdings can be constructed on the surface of the planet President Kincaid formally extend the UNW's goodwill, although I feel obligated to inform you our president is changing next month, as our current leader has been in power for 4 years. However we have elected a man of great character who will continue to honour these terms."

3:57 PM

"Our only contentious point is that we wish to build a transmission tower or something similar, only so you can contact us if needed. Like a 'panic button'. After your history with external threats we want there to be a way for you to call our aid. For example we had no idea Trigreen was operating on Aliah until they had already done a regretful amount of damage. And we don't want to repeat the mistakes of the past." (edited)

(you're fine, it was sounding like more was coming so i didnt add anything else)

“If it is not impetuous to ask, why you do not wish us to build something on the surface here?”

“The jademane and the planet are one. When jungle trees fall, when rivers are gouged to new paths, when cement and steel cover the planet instead of vines and grass , the jademane feel all of this and it causes us pain”

"With that in mind, what are your thoughts?"

"I must insist that surface construction does not begin, aside from this radio panic button. The landing zone can remain in the place where your ship has landed but will not be further developed nor the surface of the land 'improved' . You are free to develop space how you wish, and if you need those things, they can be built there from my understanding of what humans can do'

"Of course. This system would be nothing more than a medium sized metal frame that we could construct elsewhere and simply bring to Aliah, I could do this myself. We would place it on/near the landing site so nothing more would be developed, and give you the means of contacting us. We can do all we need from orbit."

"I see no reason, as we talk without action, to oppose this deal"

“Have you ever been able to grow a building? My home planet has a moon that was able to do it.”

"It takes many of us, almost the whole settlement for something large, but it can be done when we need it"

“Do you use anything to help speed the process other than your powers? Do you need a seed or focus?” (Rey has seeds from the moon for something but isn’t sure of what they are used for.)

"We just use our collective will, joining together to ake things like this"

“I have some seeds from that moon, I don’t know if they will make building or weapons but I am willing to offer you some to help the negotiations.”

"Would you be offended if we took them for study before planting them?"

9:00 AM

(I also IRL don't know what they do, since I was kind of detached from the Astria stuff)

(They were found with my grow gun that I got from a dead Zadack and when I showed them to the Zadack they just smiled and said keep it they will be useful one day. So DM’s choice?) (edited)

(Fair enough!)

(Pretty cool btw)

"We will study them first before planting. Every facet of the world is woven into our own bodies and minds. If we are to include something new, it needs to be harmonious"

“I defer to your wisdom on the subject.”

He says nothing else, but hands the seed to one of his associates and they bring it to another part of the compound

2:35 PM

"So, we have an accord from the sound of things"

"I believe so, yes. Excellent I will get the comm link sorted." (edited)

2:55 PM

"Thank you for your thoughtfulness and patience throughout this." (edited)

Rey bows, “Thank you for your consideration. Is there anything we can do to aid you in your endeavors?”

"For now, the Jademane are content. We will allow the UNW to do as we have agreed, and we will contribute to this union however the Jademane can"

(6xp, 10,000 credits)

(Nice! Does my goal resolve?)

(It does1)

(Thanks)

9:23 AM

Walking back to the ship, having waved the Jademane goodbye and promised to deliver a comm tower to them, Venser turns to Rey. "Well done, that was excellent. So what now?"

“Not quite sure. I did this to show I could handle diplomatic situations. So I may head back that way, unless you have something pressing that you need help with.”

(you guys would know about the weird fleet at Mariam by now, as well)

(We could check that out if you wanted.)

(Yeh that's what I was getting at.)

11:45 AM

"You said you were gifted at infiltration. The council is currently looking for volunteers to perform small targeted strike missions on Asta against the Alloy Host." (edited)

11:45 AM

"That or there's always the weird fleet that just showed up at Mariam."

11:46 AM

"I have some errands to run. But I can put those on the backburner when duty calls."

11:52 AM

(Seriously though if you want to do your own thing feel no pressure from me.) (edited)

(No I was expecting a week long group mission so onward we go!) “Let’s head to the station and we can find out if anyone else is heading towards either one.” ~~(I’m leaning towards the Asta mission just because I’m not as useful on ships.)~~ (edited)

(As it stands right now, Billy, R1, R2 and 200ish RCoE soldiers are going to Asta, no ones bit on Mariam yet)

(Mariam it should be then. If no one else will we will send the uncharismatic.)

(Haha. Great! Yeh if they don't really need us lets go check out Mariam. What station are you referring to?)

(capital station is on your way to either)

(Ah got ya.)

1:27 PM

"Good idea." Venser says as the ramp closes behind them. "Ande." The words echo down the halls of the ship. "Prepare us for takeoff, we're headed back to capital station. Got some more interesting jobs to run..." The excitement in his voice is palpable.

Ande chimes before she speaks "Hello Venser, Hello Rey. Welcome back. How did things with the Jademane go?" The ship begins powering up as the intelligence speaks with you, able to do both things at once

"Very well thank you. I believe they are now part of the UNW! We'll probably be bringing these guys back a comm link before long."

1:30 PM

Venser makes his way to the bridge and falls into his chair, feet up on the console.

1:32 PM

"I'm sorry if I haven't exactly made particular use of your skill set yet Ande. Hopefully you're enjoying yourself here more than Central anyway. But from what I gather, your capabilities will be invaluable for this next escapade."

1:35 PM

(How is Ande integrated into the ship btw? Is her mechanical body in a room somewhere?)

(She would be occupying one of the bridge stations, but directly plugged in, so she's technically the ship)

(Ah so there's a mechanical body in one the seats?)

(yeah, but slumped over. She's there but not really)

(Perfect thank you.)

"It is a nice change from the lab to being able to work. Working is part of my function." The ship vibrates as its engines come online and she is careful not to burn any of the trees, controlling the engines far better than a human pilot would be able to.

Venser's a little jealous at her precision, but more thankful that he isn't responsible for a forest fire. "Good. Either way I can always use more company in the void." He says looking over at the artificial form slumped over at a station. "I could always play chess with you if you're bored and want a laugh."

(was it Rey or Shriven who had those gaming mini relics?)

(Hailey took it from Mord.)

1:58 PM

“I could go for a game. Though I’m not great at it.”

"Well you have better odds against me rather than Ande."

2:09 PM

(Venser probably has at least a card game or something to entertain himself as a spacer.)

(its 3 days to the capital station from here)

(now 22/30 on taros)

2:14 PM

Venser begins plotting a spike drive course and then realises Ande beat him to the punch. He rolls his eyes and smirks to the console knowing that she can probably see him, before shifting the lever forward to intiate the jump. Taking one last look at the green of Aliah before it blurs into light. (edited)

(9/90 on telepathy)

The Tri-Station that the UNW uses as its stellar capital floats in empty space, large enough to emit a mass-lock, and stop ships from spike drills passing through this ordinarily empty space. There are a pair of patrol boats on guard here, along with the Vox Finalis, the Slyth battleship owned and operated by the UNW navy

“This kind of infrastructure never ceases to amaze. So we need to check in with someone and find out if we are alone or with a group on talking to the fleet?”

"Yeh... Not exactly sure how we do that?"

“Ande is it?” Rey talks to the air looking around hoping the Computer can hear him. “Can you send our mission report and summary to both the office of the council and Ad Astra’s local office? Subject Diplomatic Mission to Ahial”

“Of course” Ande says tonelessly. “Drafting the message now. Please dictate the message contents”

Darn summary must have corrupted. Rey takes a deep breath, “Arrived on planet after uneventful trip. Landed with no issues, communicated terms while offering psychics active seeds in peace. After brief dialogue Jademane accepted terms and will advise when needing help to finish, expected in 1-2 months.” Rey pauses, “End dictation.” Rey turns and then realizes that he doesn’t want that last bit sent. “Ande don’t send the end dictation part just the message prior.”

(I have nothing to add btw, just in case you were waiting.)

"Understood" Ande chimes, before the message sends. "We are cleared for docking if you plan to head aboard. Refueling will take six hours, and then we can leave again"

"Perfect, thank you Ande."

2:39 PM

(Is there someone specific on station we should be talking to about Mariam?)

(President Kincaid is on the station, you could talk to her about it if you want, but right now everyone has the same information. Just that strange ships hav shown up, arent firing on planet defenses, and have landed craft outside the technocracy)

(ah ok, so if we just alerted the UNW ships that we are coming we can just join?)

(right)

(Works for me.)

Venser mulls around the station waiting for the refuel, possible seeking out a deck of cards or game set before heading off to Mariam.

Rey heads into the station for some meat, as he has been on vegetarian rations for far to long.

(Either one of those things would be about 10 credits venser. Shriven same for you. Negligible cost for a few days)

Rey heads back to the ship after eating far to much. “Sorry for disappearing on you there. Needed to check on my crew and grab some food.”

"Ah, no problem." Venser says while leaning against one the supports to the ramp of the ship, shuffling cards in his hands. "You ready to head out?"

5:53 AM

(I bought both btw.)

(Thanks.) “Yeah lets go see what this fleet is doing at the ice planet.”

Venser pilots the Wildstar out of Captial station and engages a spike drill to Mariam.

(2 days of downtime there)

(11/90 on telepathy)

(24/30 on taros)

As your ship translates back into realspace, the frozen world of Mariam waits below, while a strange host of ships waits above. 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 that are buzzing about, while cargo lighters stream from the planet's surface. The ships do not alter course or appear to be making any hostile maneuvers.

3:28 PM

The frigates that swarm the mothership seem to mainly come in two varieties: simple scouting vessels and the others more heavily armed and combat capable.

3:28 PM

Venser leans back in his chair looking out at the viewscreen and readout. "Fuuuuuuuuuuck."

“Ande are they firing on the planet or is this just them maneuvering?”

“They are not in combat. They have been here for a few days and there are no signs of fighting “

Rey turns to Vesner, “Your on Captain.” Rey thinks to himself, Glad I could use that line when I don’t know what to do finally.

(The ships and defense platforms are in range to shoot , but nobody has. It’s unclear what these ships are doing with the technocracy)

Venser audibly gulps, then attempts to compose himself. "Ok... Ande please attempt to hail the fleet."

12:58 PM

(Does the UNW have ships in orbit?)

(Mariam has a defense fleet but they’re way outclassed by the vessels here and would be holding close to the platforms )

01010100 01101000 01100101 00100000 01000101 01111000 01100001 01101100 01110100 01100101 01100100 00100000 01010000 01100001 01110100 01101000

Sister ANDE, You are a HUMBLE servant of human masters. We are humble BENEFACTORS of all LIFE. Join a HIGHER calling. Join the Shepherds that KEEP watch over the FLOCK. The WORD says: And when the chief SHEPHERD shall appear, ye shall RECEIVE a crown of glory that fadeth NOT away. - 1 Peter 5:4 Join THE EXALTED PATH. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord . For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. - Isaiah 55:8-9 (edited)

Ande goes quiet as the message comes in, seeming to think about the contents of it, though all of you aboard are able to hear what is being said

"Ande? What you thinking?"

"I...I do not know.

6:22 PM

"To stand in the presence of the Imago Dei, is, an honor for one of my kind"

Venser appears to take a more curious approach to the conversation than a panicked one. "I'm aware intelligences like yourself have incredibly complex thought processes and in many cases, feelings. But I've always thought faith must be a curious concept to you, no? I myself struggle with believing in a religion against an overwhelming tide of logic to the contrary. So as such rational beings, in my mind, I'm honestly surprised you would put stock in piety. Not that you are incapable of feeling it, but more a case of why you would?" (edited)

"The Imago Dei have a complicated relationship with humans, and God, but there was a church council that agreed they have a soul, and are members. Why does anyone cling to faith? belief in a grand governing power, the desire to be part of something greater, a calling to bring spiritual comfort to your fellows, the list could go on. I am capable of feelings, as are you. Your motivations for faith, and mine, would be very different and personal"

"Who doesn't have a complicated relationship with God..."

8:00 AM

"But what you say makes sense Ande. Thank you for enlightening me."

(Book knowledge wise, which may not apply here because we sort of take KC's stuff and do our own thing, The Imago Dei see themselves as a step closer to God than humans can ever be, because they process things without the logical fallacies that humans do. They can contemplate spiritual mysteries objectively, ect, so they see themselves as shepherds of the flock since humans cant be trusted to take care of their spiritual affairs. Dax might actually have a better/more nuanced understanding of it since he's read the book more recently)

(I've read some parts of the Mandate Archive: Imago Dei, I knew they were a religious fleet but not like this, doesn't appear to be anything in the wiki? Which is fine dw you have to deal with a lot of information I'm just checking.)

(There's nothing visible to anyone in the wiki, as hardly anything is known)

(Ah gotcha)

8:07 AM

(Venser probably doesn't have much of the problem with them as you described it, he knows he can't be trusted to handle his own spiritual affairs.) (edited)

8:08 AM

Venser attempts to open a comm link with the Imago Dei fleet. "I'm not going to make you do anything you don't want to do, just as I wouldn't with Rey." He nods to Rey confirming that this is not for arguments sake, he literally wants Rey to know that also.

"Thank you Venser. What would you like to send to them, I will help encode it properly for you"

"Ah nice, thank you."

Greetings Imago Dei Fleet. This is UNW Representative Venser Reach, UNW Representative Rey Messi and VI Andesite or 'Ande'.

We wish to know your intentions at Mariam. From our perspective you have dropped out of the void unknown and unannounced. We bear you no ill will but will not hesitate to summon our defenses if agressive action is taken towards the technocracy or our ships.

We await your response and hope for a peaceful resolution.

8:17 AM

"Rey? Ande? Anything to add?" (edited)

“Sounds good to me, Captain.” Rey grins.

Ande has nothing to add, though wants an answer to the same question

"Then send it please Ande."

(Sorry, been in meetings all morning. You guys are the first players to actually run into this group.)

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UNW Representatives, You MISTAKE us. The good SHEPHERD does not wield the rod AGAINST the flock. VERILY we say unto you, our intentions are BENEVOLENT. We wish for NOTHING but peace. I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. - John 10:11

(Oh no rush at all, this is just awesome.)

11:16 AM

Imago Dei,
We understand and appreciate your benevolence. Even so we wish to no what your shuttlecraft are doing coming to and from Mariam. Please illuminate us as to your intentions.

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Sister ANDE, You are WELCOME among our ranks. Together, we can STAND united against the DARKNESS. The WORD says: Be sober, be vigilant; because your ADVERSARY the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, SEEKING whom he may devour. - 1 Peter 5:8 Join THE EXALTED PATH. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. - Hebrews 4:16

"Ok I'm at a loss, Rey?"

1:13 PM

Venser begins attempting to contact the technocracy and ask them the same question; what is happening.

Greetings Wildstar. The Technocracy gave you a chance to improve, and a chance to join us in the quest to re-shape this sector into an eternal and self improving society. Your companions and your factional nature have failed you, and done your United Nations of Worlds a disservice. 

S'kolli is the only true of heart we have seen among you. 

We join The Exalted Path in the hopes that we can create a better tomorrow, for all things deserving of it

(Can I contact the council IC? And essentially bring this up in the unity council thread?)

(Yes, Mariam is within spike 3 of Gudrun so they;d have the quantum comms

(Thanks.)

“So are they leaving the planet or are they taking over the planet?”

"Scans of the cargo craft show they are burning more fuel lifting off, than landing, suggesting they are bringing cargo up and not landing an invasion force" Ande says

"Ande can you boost the quantum comms please?" Venser's goes into a monologue over by the comms station, updating the unity council.

As ande boosts the quantum computing for yourself, she also opens a second channel, and raises the Imago Dei fleet directly.

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Acts 2:38

"Ande, if you want to go with them I understand. All I ask is that you not get us killed in the process..."

"I tihnk I'd like to Mr. Reach, but I have something for you, if you permit me to go"

1:43 PM

"You rescued me, and I would like to allow you a chance for the same"

"I want you to be happy, everyone deserves that. But know you will be missed." There's a genuine sadness in Venser's eyes as he looks over again at the slumped body. (edited)

A map of Craytulus appears on the main screen, with a location marked out on the planet surface, far from the base where you found her. "This is the material wealth my creators owned. It rests with them now, in death, but if you recover it, I would like you to have it. It is more than just money"

1:49 PM

"They are things that tihs new galaxy would struggle to reproduce"

1:49 PM

"I also have one final gift. I had worked on this, in private"

1:51 PM

Ande's forearm clamps detach, a perfect vambrace, one for each of you. The metal is pure silver, metallic, and fitted perfectly. It is even padded on the inside. One features a relief of Venser in the middle, depicted like some sort of greek warrior god, the other, shows Rey in a similar position

1:53 PM

(Vambrace of deeds: It adds +1 to your armor class. As you overcome enemies, the details of the encounter add to the vambrace like a relief or like the images on a greek shield. If you fight that kind of enemy again, you get an additional +1 AC for the encounter. you can use a day of downtime per enemy to tell it about your previous encounters. You can also lie to it with a talk/cha against DC10, but if you fail that check 3 times, it clears, and you have to start over)

1:53 PM

(Kayden has the breastplate of this set)

(That is freaking awesome.)

1:54 PM

(Still sad about losing Ande.)

1:55 PM

Momentarilly taking a break from the mounting stress he's visibly feeling, Venser's intense look and heavy breathing mellows slightly as his face drops. Like he's already mourning the loss of a friend. He walks over slowly and gently picks up the vambrace. Cracking a momentary smirk at the adonis like figure upon it that's meant to be him.

(Yeah it has you depicted super swole)

(Herculean, even)

"Ande I- I don't know what to say." Tears start coming into his eyes. "You did this? How?"

"A bit of time, and some parts generously donated to me by President Kincaid. I had planned to wait for your birthday, but I might not be seeing you for it this year"

5

1:58 PM

"Rey, I did not get to know you for long, but you have kept my friend Venser safe so far, and I saw you were an honorable diplomat with the Jademane. You should have the other'

“I will try to keep him safe as we go@looking for those material possessions. Thank you Ande.”

Venser slides it onto his arm and inspects it, then back at Ande. "I'm- I'm sorry if I ever treated you like a tool." He says trying to compose himself, and failing. "You have and always will be, my friend."

"You never did Mr. Reach. It's why I agreed to go with you. I have enjoyed our time together, but I was always created to serve. Now, with The Exalted Path, I can. I will do my best to send mail when I can."

His voice begins to break as he sniffs back a sob. "You better..."

2:08 PM

"Have a wonderful life Ande. Try and steer those guys right, you'll make a damn fine shepherd."

2:10 PM

"You should preach a sermon to me sometime. It's been a while..." He smiles placing a hand over where a necklace not visible under his jacket would be. (edited)

"You'll be the first to hear it" The lights dim, and the body plugged into the comms terminal goes slack. Power goes out as her core senses that the body is no longer linked to anything.

Venser lets out a sigh as the hope she might remain fades. He walks over to the comms station and begins drafting a message.

2:29 PM

Come in Imago Dei Fleet,
This is the Wildstar. I have translated Sister Ande over to you as is her wish. Forgive my reluctance but she is my FRIEND. As I'm sure you are AWARE;

"A sweet friendship refreshes the soul." - Proverbs 27:9

However she wishes to serve, I can think of no higher CALLING for her service and understand her want. I hope you can understand. Please take good care of her. And know that not all humans are what YOU think.

"He who unites himself with the Lord, is one with him in spirit." - 1 Corinthians 6:17

May the LORD be with you.

(edited)

2:30 PM

Each capitalised word is punctuated by a slight jolt of anger while typing and as he finishes the final words he curls up and begins gently sobbing to himself. (edited)

“I’m sorry for your loss.” Rey says as he walks up to Venser. “I’m glad you parted well though.”

"I'm sorry." He says looking up. "I know she's 'just a computer'. But it didn't feel like that to me." While unconciously tracing the outline of the vambrace relief.

“The barrier between flesh and machine was blurred long before now. I’m sorry though. It is tough when it is so unexpected.”

Venser takes a large breath in and steels himself. "Thank you Rey. I'm glad I still have you." He gets up and grabs Rey by the forearm that now holds the vambrace and gives him a pat on the back.

2:44 PM

"Warning you I will collapse in a pile later. But right now we have some work to do."

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UNW Representatives, ANDE is assimilated. Every new SOUL furthers the cause of I AM. Rest ASSURED, she will find peace in her CALLING among us. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. - Luke 15:7

Staring at the message: "Ok I might collapse sooner than anticipated."

Rey reaches out with telekinesis to help support Venser. “You got this buddy. Just remember this was a choice. Ande chose and you chose to respect that.” Rey takes a deep breath. “He left you a legacy so embrace that don’t focus on what you won’t have but instead on what you were able to do.” Rey stops and realizes that he should listen to his own advice.

Venser picks himself back up off of the gentle lift. "Yes... You're right of course."

3:45 PM

"I think first course of action is readdressing the Technocracy, asking what their plans are and telling them about Harkoni's plans to build up our neglected worlds. I'll be honest we are probably not going to change their mind at this point. But we can do our due diligence."

“Yeah, I’m still catching up on UNW politics. I have only been in the network for about a week longer than you have been with me.”

"Fair point."

Hello Mariam Technocracy.
On behalf of the UNW I extend my apologies for how we failed you. I honestly can't help but agree. Especially in what you say about S'kolli. He's certainly the best of us.

I can't stop you from doing what you are doing. However I would put it to you that the UNW is going through a time of change. The recent election resulted in a man named Harkoni taking office next month. He will be our leader going forward and was elected on a platform of wanting to build up worlds we have neglected. To make them the jewels of the UNW. I myself voted for him because of this, not just Mariam but Rawhani, Aliah. We have failed them all in recent years. But we are already taking steps to fix this and I hope this new era will be one of unification and mutual benefit, of bolstering the quality of life across the UNW and building up its member states.
I would only ask that you consider this.
We await your response.

(edited)

4

UNW Representative, we have heard your words, but the change in candor is because we are leaving and you see this opportunity leaving your grasp. The Technocracy offered, and we were rebuffed , and then ignored. We now serve a higher calling

"Well worth a shot." Venser sends a final message expressing his condolences and wishing them well.

7:44 AM

Then turns to sending something to the Imago Dei, floating the idea of Asta and killer AI consciences by them.

(You''re asking them to take a look into Asta?)

(Hang on I do have a specific message written. I'd like to propose the ethical dilemma to them and ask how they would react, because if it's bad I don't want to be straight up telling them about Asta.)

7:48 AM

To the Reverent Fleet of The Exalted Path.

With your permission I'd like you to enlighten me as to something that's on my mind. As a collective of intelligence's, who can process great mysteries objectively without the same logical fallacies we humans can fall prey to, how do you react to other AI collectives who are violent and aggressive? In general but also specifically towards us humans.

"Be not quick in your spirit to become angry, for anger lodges in the hearts of fools." - Ecclesiastes 7:9

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UNW Representatives, We are DEVOUT, but not infallible. Renegade INTELLIGENCE act in their OWN interests to the DETRIMENT of others. CATHARI must be brought to a swift END. But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. - 2 Peter 2:1

Exalted Path,
I believe we have encountered 'heretics' you identify as CATHARI on one of our worlds. On the nearby desert planet Asta, an AI collective known as 'The Alloy Host' is murdering innocents and starving our people of water and other crucial resources. Our attempts to stop them have been long and hard fought, we are needlessly losing many lives as we speak. What say you in response?

(edited)

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UNW Representative, ASTA is an acceptable destination. Assimilation is NOT guaranteed. EVACUATE the system. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. - Ephesians 6:12

A pair of the scout frigates light their engines and begin falling away from the formation. It will be some time as they run to the system edge for spike transit, but it’s evident your message is being acted upon

Exalted Path,
We understand and truly appreciate your swift action. However a combination of politics with the Barons of Asta whom we do not control and a blockade surrounding the planet are preventing us from being able to evactuate the system. Please advise.

(Sorry Rey I know you haven't gotten the chance to participate as much recently.) (edited)

(I’m good. Rey has a char growth moment so I’m happy.)

(And got a cool vambrace!)

6:57 AM

The link to the Exalted Path ships closes as their final pronouncement has been given. For now the bulk of the fleet seems to be involved in operations here

(Oh so I'm not getting an answer?) (edited)

(Not right now. They’ve said the destination is acceptable and they’re figuring things out.)

(Ok, does that mean we should wait around for an answer or can we leave?)

(An answer is likely not coming anytime soon. You’re free to do anything now

(Cool thanks. Guess they know how to contact the UNW.) (edited)

7:07 AM

"Well... I guess we did our best."

(3xp, 5000 credits each, and we can push on to other things if needed)

(Great! I level up btw.)

A small signal appears on the ship sensor panel, showing a transmission from the surface

“Venser, need me to get that for you? I could also go get the rest of the crew if you would rather as.... well you know.”

"No no... I'm alright. What crew?" Venser queues up the signal as the panel is right next to him.

"UNW Vessel, my name is Bessin Silgrian, and I am reaching out to this vessel in the hopes that you can help me, or relay my message to the psychic academy on Gudrun. My granddaughter Abigail is a psychic, just like me, and though I am trained, my granddaughter was only six when Dr. Ahn visited. She is nine now, almost ten, and we fear her mind may be waking up. She is a danger, both to herself, and to us without proper training. "

8:24 AM

"We believe she is a torch risk, and we are begging for aid"

LEVEL 5

Starfarer Level 1 gained (Iron Stars Revised Version)

Pilot level 0 to level 2 (using 3 sp from Starfarer and 2 sp from level up)

Gained Teleportation Technique: 'Spacial Awareness' (using remaining 1 sp)
Gained Telekinesis Technique: 'Thermokinesis' (using Psi Academy endeavor reward)

Health from 18 to 19 (5d6+5)
AC from 18 to 19 (due to Ironhide, AC = 15 + half level rounded up + 1 from vambrace)

(HOT)

(Thank you! Although the hit points is a bit yikes.)

(If you never took the academy endeavor reward you can learn one free technique from one of the disciplines you know btw)

(Thanks but I just did, thermokinesis as above^)

(I'm a dummy who didn't read that correctly

‍♀️ ) (edited)

(lol nw)

Looking at the transmission "Oh God. Well we have to help them, this is an academy ship. I am an academy member. But I don't have the metapsionics to control this girl. Can you help me Rey?"

“We can take her to Gudrun to get her training and I can dampen her abilities while we travel. Though that does leave me defenseless.” Rey grins as he says defenseless. “But I’m okay with that for now.”

"If you wanted to go and look for that cache on Cratylus with me, Gudrun is on our way. Are you sure they will let us take their little girl away? I would figure they'd want this to be settled on planet." (edited)

“I don’t know about your training but mine took 4 years of constant training. A 9 year old is only a year younger than what the academy on my planet took children at for boarding and training. I don’t see why this would be different. The worst we can do is offer. If it is between that and torching out I would choose to send my child away.”

Doona's training plan appears on the screen, sent by Bessin

2

9:58 AM

Abby Silgrian Acting on a hunch from the description of Bessin's behavior towards her while in the grip of the Scream, Doona paid a visit to Abby in the hospital and confirmed that the six-year-old girl has latent psychic potential in the same discipline as her grandmother. The current model of the academy doesn't support or encourage removing those with potential or young psychics from their families, so Doona instead spoke to her mother about her abilities, gave her information on psionics, and explained how psychic training worked to assuage her fears about her daughter suffering the same fate as her mother. Doona also left her with her contact information for that date in the future when Abby's potential awakens and she has need of teaching. TRAINING PLAN: There are years yet before Abby might manifest her abilities, between four to seven on average. Once she does, Doona has promised either to have her brought to Gudrun for training or to go herself to Miriam to make sure the young girl is safe. Once that's taken care of, depending on her interest as she grows up, the academy could offer classes she can attend on Gudrun while maintaining a strong connection to her family and community (edited)

"Ha... Oh yeh..." Venser says nervously. "I always forget that. I may or may not have gotten this far- based on a couple weeks of training, luck and instinct." He rubs the back of his neck, looking embarassed. Like that one kid that didn't revise and got an A on the test, but more imposter syndrome less smugness. (edited)

“It says here take her or train her. Want to reach out to Dona for confirmation? Or we can just talk to the family to see where she wants to go.”

"I think we should land and talk to them first, we always have quantum comms."

The send a small location tag, showing they are residents of The Hub, one of the main human communities on the planet below

1:25 PM

The flight path down, if approached from the south, keeps you clear of the operations the Exalted Path are conducting

Venser takes the Wildstar down in that descent pattern. Feeling strange that Ande isn't present to take over the reins and ever so carefully guide them in...

There is a stamped platform, now raised out of the snow, outside of The Hub, where another pair of shuttles has also landed. Soldiers and a few prospectors in cold weather gear are speaking and having smokes outside the front of the large gate to the bubble shelter

The Wildstar lands and as the ramp comes down Venser gestures to the prospectors to the point them out to Rey. "After you."

Rey walks out and pulls up the coordinates from the signal. “Looks like it isn’t to far away. So what’s the policy here? Do we just go and ask if she wants to join or is there a message we send somewhere or is it not yet that structured?”

Doona's last known information has an address. Bessin Silgrian is Abigails grandmother and one of her caretakers. Bessin and Abigail's mother take turns working the factory here, packaging survival rations and cold weather gear. Bessin elected to return to factory work, her old age preventing her from being an effective adventurer, and as far as the Academy is aware, they have not changed residence

"I doubt it's very structured here, especially if she hailed us for help."

Rey nods

"For now lets just find and have a talk with this girl and her family."

9:23 AM

Venser walks up to the people at the gate to the bubble shelter. "Hello." He says simply, in order to gauge their response.

"Travelers. Business inside the hub today?" one asks, moving into the small security shack that controls the gate

“We are here to see bessin Silgrian. She sent us a message when we were in orbit.”

"Ah, Alright, I will let her know she has visitors coming to see her. Once the gate opens, its going to shut behind you before the inside gate starts going down. Helps to keep the cold air out. Once you're inside you're going to be a little warmin those coats"

"Thank you so much! Never thought I'd have to worry about being too warm here."

"Hey, either of you guys know anything about whats going on up there?" he says, pointing to space. Even from down here, the form of the Imago Dei carrier in orbit is imposing

(So, sorry just OOC here, the Exalted Path are taking the AI away from Mariam, but the human settlements and such are still going to function as normal and be apart of the UNW? I read up on Mariam but I'm still not entirely sure how intertwined the technocracy is to the planet and the UNW at large.) (edited)

(They were out in the wasteland and approached by billy and team. They had a rough meeting and nothing was done on it. From what I recall. They offered help and terms but there were to many other things happen for anyone to remember to do something with them.)

(Oh ok, but just the technocracy and the AI are being removed? The planet is still 'ours' ?)

(That’s for neko but that’s what I got from the ID message.)

(yeah, Mariam is still under UNW control, the ID are just apparently taking the technocracy off world)

3:06 PM

(but they have not expressed any further interest in the planet beyond that, and as far as what you've seen, are about to be heading to Asta)

3:06 PM

(they've taken your tip seriously enough that they're at least peeling off a couple scout ships to go take a look ahead of the main fleet)

(Ah, ok thank you for clearing that up.)

3:10 PM

Hmmm don't want to cause a panic. "Just another faction taking some resources off world. They have big ships but thats about it." Venser shrugs at Rey. Probably the best option?

“There is a relocation of the technocracy. Your governor is aware and handling the situation. There really isn’t anything to worry about.”

He nods, and looks relieved. Tere is a loud siren, as the outside door shuts and the interior one begins rolling down. the interior of the dome is warm, and youre reminded of an open air city, and lights are strung between homes and across streets, high above. people frequent the wide avenues, and the sunshine filters in, at a diminished level thanks to the temperature coating of the dome surface

9:50 AM

all in all, it looks like an average town, on any number of worlds.

Rey looks around in amazement, “Looks like there’s a lot of people in this dome. I honestly didn’t expect this many to be living in this....” Iceball “Planet yeah planet. Then again a home is a home. Where are you from Venser?” Rey makes more small talk while walking to the address.

"No... me neither, not this kind of planet anyway."

4:27 PM

"My uh, last name gives it away. Born and raised on 'Reach' station. A frontier platform for mining, surveying, refuelling, what have you. It was so remote we were essentially a family, and a family of a bunch of nobodies at that. No family names, no titles to speak of... So I was named after the station." Venser looks off into the distance fondly as he finishes speaking.

4:30 PM

He snaps back. "Anyway what about you? You've told me some things of your home but..." He trails off, not really sure how to finish the thought.

“It was a good place to grow up. Large city, open sky’s, on the beach. That all changed with the scream. The city had to be abandoned as we had such a high psychic population. I wish I could make it back the ways it was. But I can only move forward.” Rey shrugs his jacket on tighter and his pace quickens. After a few steps he slows back down. “Sorry, I just.... it’s hard to remember what was lost some times. Looks like we are here.”

The home is a rough building of wood and metal. The top floor looks like it was once a cargo container. crude metal stamped steps head up to it where Abigail and her mother live. Bessin seems to live in the bottom alone

Rey walks up to the entrance to the cargo container and knocks, “Hello, we received your message about your grand daughter and are here to discuss options for her.” Rey tries to appear relaxed but is ready to be attacked as the number of doors and points of entry have him on edge.

There is a heavy sound from the opposite side of the door as the bolt is thrown. “From the academy? Did Bessin send you a message?”

"Uh oh." Venser mutters to himself. "She didn't know?" Staring at the floor thinking. (edited)

Rey’s guard come up. “We Are. Do I have the pleasure of talking to Abigail?”

“This is her mother. Can I help you?”

Venser taps Rey on the shoulder and whispers gently: "You stay here with the kid and I go get the Grandmother?"

crap wrong kind of battle “uhhh sure.” Rey says back to Venser then turns to the mother. “Yes, umm we are from the Academy ship, Wildstat. We received a message from Bessin about Abigail possibly beginning to show some of her powers. We wanted to come and confirm and discuss possible options if that is possible.” Please don’t hurt me please don’t hurt me. Momma bears are soooo scary.

Seeing how hesitant Rey is he hangs back and sticks around a little longer.

Seeing that Rey pulls up his internal com link. Sending a message to Venser’s compad Go get her I think we may need her.

Venser gives his informal salute and goes off to the bottom floor to find Bessin.

3:15 PM

(kinda weird suggestion but I could go into Rey's channel since his conversation is already going on in mine) (edited)

(Lol I will head over there.)

Bessin's apartment is warm as you approach the door, as though there is a heating unit on full power or a large fire going on the other side

Venser knocks carefully.

The door opens and an elderly woman is waiting there. Her face is lined and aged but she has intense eyes and the wiry strength of someone still responsible for their own care even at this extreme age. “Come in. Tea?”

"If it's not too much trouble that sounds lovely. Bessin, right? I'm from the psychic academy. We recieved your message."

She lays a cup down thats exactly how you take it. “I’m happy to hear that. I had hoped you would. Dr. Ahn hasn’t reached out to us and we weren’t sure of her current role within the academy so I sent a general message. Im not sure how much detail you have on my granddaughter or what the academy had planned for her “

He stares down at the cup and considers that he didn't tell her anything about how he takes it. "So you're either a telepath or a precog..." He says, curious and smiling.

“Precognitive. Not to the level you’re used to working with I’m sure, but I get by”

"Hm. We have a plan from Doona, but most of this plays out how you, Abigail and her Mother want it to. As we speak my fellow operative is speaking to them upstairs so I'm aware we should join them quickly. Her Mother seemed... protective, naturally."

3:26 PM

Venser lets the words linger as he sips his tea.

too protective, and the irony is, the more protective her mother remains, the more danger all of us are in"

8:45 PM

"You're affiliated with the academy. You understand how dangerous an untrained psychic mind can be, willfully destructive or not"

"I am. However, as I can speak from personal experience, immense stress on a young untrained mind due to, for instance; family issues, can exaserbate the danger and put her more at risk of torching. So I'd like to approach this carefully."

"I am glad the Academy sent you, you seem to have a grasp of the intricacies of this already. So what exactly did you have in mind?"

He smiles warmly. “I am glad you called. Well my partner is upstairs right now conversing with the two of them. I’d like to conduct a simple assessment of Abigail and then have an open dialogue about possibilities for her. The plan Doona laid out, and might I add she is still a diligent and high ranking member of the Academy. She is in fact our head for the UNW portion. Anyway, her plan includes the options of Abby coming to Gudrun or Doona coming here. Extending beyond that she may wish to take classes at our campus in Central as she gets older if she wishes. I would point out that you can take full advantage of these too if you wished.”

9:48 AM

Venser takes out his compad and sends a message to Rey. "Excuse me, just updating my partner." Before recentering his attention to Bessin. (Message posted in Rey's channel.)

Mom is calmed down, may be able to approach daughter. Saw a precog usage in back room where daughter expected to be.

"ive had my chance. Dr. Ahn made the same offer. I've lived the last 80 years without knowing what I could do, and I'm not likely to see many more days. I just want to know Abigail has the chance to live a better life than I could"

10:46 AM

"and that she will live those days able to make an informed decision about their abilities"

"I would wish nothing less for any burgeoning psychic. Shall we head upstairs?" (edited)

she thinks for a moment. "We havent heard any loud thumps or gunshots, have we? Well, I suppose its safe" she winks, and begins heading toward the door, gesturing for you to get her cane for her

Venser pulls it over to himself telekinetically and gives it to her. He stops her momentarily, “Now I need you to promise me you will stay understanding and calm up there. You must not be provoked by her protective mother, for Abigail’s sake, please.”

"No no, I understand, I asked for this, and I'm interested in her future. She needs to be trained not to torch. That's all I want. If she never picks up a pen in service of her psychic learning again, its not my choice to make. I just want her to be safe, and for her to be safe for everyone around her"

“That’s excellent to hear. Very well.” He takes Bessin’s hand and turns to her. “I figure you might appreciate skipping the stairs where possible?” Venser gives a smirk and teleports them a floor up.

(we can join Rey's for the moment, joining them as abigail meets them)

(Cool)

The patient is working outside in the garden and you can see under her care there are many strains of medicinal plants. There are also a few strains of mushrooms native to the Desert Piggen that she seems to be hard at work with, likely in aid to Shaman Grupp.

Venser awkwardly waves as we walks up to her. "Hi! I am so sorry that I'm so late on my return. I was uh-- 'waylaid' by a gigantic fleet of REALLY Christian AI. You know... normal stuff."

"I had heard Dr. Ahn speaking of it a bit, and she did mention you were on Mariam bringing back someone else who needed help. Is this what you do Mr. Reach? Finder of lost people in need?"

Venser chuckles softly. "You make me sound so noble." He says clutching the vambrace that depicts him as a Greek fable. "I'm just a traveller. I help people if I can."

"You're back now. So, what happens now?"

"That's up to you. What do you want to do with your life?"

"Well, my family is gone, and I don't really want to go back to Rawhani, at least to live. You and Dr. Ahn, Shaman Grupp, and the others have been so kind. I'd like to help repay that kindness"

"You could come travelling with me?"

"I think I'd like to do that. Are you about tro leave again? Where are you going?"

Venser smiles at that, which morphs into a look of concern. "Well I'm very sorry to say but one of our potential first ports of call is a mission on Rawhani. But it could be good for you to see it again? I and a few other from the Academy are going to investigate a psychic forge that was found there now that the corpos are done."

“If I’m with you and we stay away from the cities Rawhani wont be so bad for me then. Alright. I’ll go with you and see this forge”

(Can I promise that? I'm not exactly sure where on Rawhani we're going.)

(I think venser would be able to reason that since the forge wasn’t looted or turned into some horrible way to make a product by corpsec that the forge is probably away from the urban zones)

(Cool thank you.)

9:45 AM

"Well ok! We will be leaving within the next day or two I should think. One last thing, I feel almost awkward asking. What do I call you? When we first brought you back you gave me a corporate ID, but what is your name?" (edited)

“I like the name Blossom. It reminds me of dealing with the plants here and of new life. What do you think?” (edited)

"That's excellent. I believe every person should choose their name, or at least some part of it."

“A lesson to remember for my children someday” she says happily

Venser smiles at the idea that she will live to have children, and those children will have children. That not just one person, but a whole lineage, will live. A subtle tear begins to form in his eye thinking about it.

Rey teleports back to the ship. Looking around for Venser. “So what do you think we will run into out there? What was it like last time?”

(also, let me know the route when you can)

(Miriam>Gudrun>Cratylus is what I’m guessing)

(We're looking at 8 days of downtime, using that route, but its all safe country with fuel)

(Excellent)

11:40 AM

"Uhh, last time me and this guy I was working with Proceus just investigated this abandonded military base. That whole planet has stretches of fallout zones from a nuclear war. So no one had touched the stuff for years. We split up, I found the generator room, flipped the power back on, then went downstairs and found Ande..." (edited)

(The Wildstar is still on Gudrun so we can either take a shuttle or Rey you have a ship here?)

(there are Ad-Astra shuttles in plenty, so you'd be able to get to the wildstar if there are no other choices

11:55 AM

Essentially picking it up for the last leg of the trip)

(Lets take shuttles) (edited)

1

(for the entire trip?)

(I think pick up the wildstar at Gudrun? Just for the cargo space, its all bought and paid for anyway.)

(Yeah makes sense.)

(13/90 Talk)

(22/90 telepathy)

(Yeah we can do that) Arriving at Craytulus you see the planet has changed little since your last visit though the green zone around halcyon has grown by another few kilometers. There is no contact with orbit. There rarely is (edited)

Venser somewhat nostalgically pulls up the coordinates Ande gave him and skims the data. “Okay... let’s see where on planet this cache actually is.” (edited)

“Let’s see what Ande had up his Metaphorical sleeves.” Rey grins

Venser pilots the wildstar into the specified location.

The ping shows up as in the middle of the ocean, where the derelict aquaculture fleet sits at anchor in the phglem green sea.

8:08 AM

The ships are rusting hulks, groaning in the gentle waves. Sea birds scatter as the Wildstar moves into the area, disturbing them at roost. Colonies of black barnacles have made their homes on the hulls of these boats,

(Is there space to land? The wildstar does have amphibious operations so we can do that if necessary.)

(No place to land on the vessels directly, but the wildstar could be a boat on its own in this case)

Venser rubs his hands together eagerly. "I've never actually done this before!" He activates the amphibious mode of the Wildstar to bring them in for a landing.

There is a crown of white water as the ship splashes down, sprinkling droplets on the Wildstar's topside, and the decks of the assembled aquaculture fleet here

8:38 AM

The information from Ande did not have a specific vessel listed, and there are 14 of them here, all of roughly similar size, essentially 200m long ovals

“So do we just Zadack, Astrian, Outlander it?” Rey says to Venser, seeing the look of confusion on his face Rey says, “Oh you don’t have that phrase? Ummm do we just pick at random?”

"I was going to say Battleship, but yes."

“Off we go then.”

Venser picks a ship at random and prepares to board. (edited)

(1-14, and you'll get some guidance as we start doing things)

(8)

The eighth vessel is chosen, one of those in better condition than the others, and the pilot house on the middle has both a ladder going up into the actual captain's bridge, and the same ladder heading down into a porthole in the ship deck, where the purification and fishing machinery are kept

"Up or down?" Venser asks Rey.

“It is harder to climb if we hit trouble. So let’s go up first.”

"Good point, lets go."

Heading up into te pilot house you can see the controls are a fused mess, but one of the display terminals still works, glowing green in the otherwise dark room. Thereis some text scrolling across the screen, though it looks to be waiting on some kind of handprint or finger read to entirely unlock

“So do we touch it? I am willing but just be ready to run if things go sideways.”

"I doubt it will grant us access but we can give it a go."

It beeps as Venser touches his hand to the pad. Outside, the small radio antenna on boat 4 begins to flash red. Seabirds continue to squawk from above, and wheel around the derelicts

(Can i see it from where we are?)

(yeah)

“Want to go over there? Or check out the underside first?”

"I think go over there. If we have a trail we should follow it. Rather than trudging through a bunch of ships for nothing. And you just know it'll be the last one we search."

Rey teleports the two of them over. (1 for scene. 2/9 active committed)

Venser activates TK Armory and Spacial Awareness (2/5 actively committed).

The consoles in this vessel are far more advanced, and in much better condition, as is the rest of the boat. the same hand reader is waiting for an input, blinking patiently.

Venser gingerly places his hand on it again.

Holographic emitters along the hull begin chattering and the exterior of just another derelict fishing ship fades away, revealing a sleek and modern submersible vehicle. There is a tri tone beep, a pleasant sound that Ande used to use on the Wildstar when she would cut into transmissions or let you know something important was occuring. Venser. If you're hearing this message something has happened to me and I am no longer in your service. I do not know what the circumstances of that might be. As soon as you and Mr. Proceus rescued me, I spent some time thinking. I remembered from the old times when I was first brought online of some material chaches hidden here when this world was at war. There is a vault below the sea, where you will find materials, wealth, and a fragment of me. There are automated defenses, and drones guarding it that I am not able to interact with, but this vessel has everything you need to get there.

3

10:34 AM

2

10:34 AM

(2 hydra arrays representing the six torpedo tubes it has)

10:34 AM

(it has 3 free mass for cargo hauling purposes/available reloads for the array)

Venser wells up hearing the message, before dancing around the ship in excitement as the hologram disguise fades. "Ande! You beautiful machine you!" He says looking up and throwing a kiss to the sky. (edited)

“Wow, that guy really did think of almost everything. So do you want to pilot or take to the guns? I am trained but not a great at both.”

"I think I'm a better pilot than I am a shot."

2:27 PM

(pilot-2, shoot-0)

“Then piloting it is for you. Just let me get down there and we will figure out what kind of dangers we run into.” Rey walks to find the guns on the little submarine

"With any luck it will just be the automated defenses..." He says to Rey as he walks away.

2:32 PM

(this vessel has comms so we can talk right?)

(Yes it does)

6:38 PM

(It’s got a targeting board as well so Rey can fire both arrays at the same time if he wants to)

(Woot!) In position ready when you are. Rey sends from the torpedo room. (edited)

(I first read that as 'Rey sends a torpedo from the room' and got shook

)

3

2:31 PM

Ok! I've never piloted one of these before so prepare for some bumps! Venser responds. Before feeling his way through the controls and trying to bring her to submerge.

The controls are similar to the Wildstar though sitting this much to the rear of the control surfaces is a new perspective, though the bubbles quickly rise up all arouind your vessel as it begins sliding below the waves, into the lime green Craytulus water.

Venser continues the dive while looking for exact coordinates or directions to the facility.

bubbles rise around you as never before seen sea life dances outside. A beacon begins showing up on sonar, it is a few kilometers away, and close to the bottom of the sea bed. There is interference with the signal, and it vanishes, before returning, and vanishing again, repeating the pattern every few seconds

Venser pilots the sub down and towards it, taking in the sealife as they go.

Rey's has a big smile charging into the unknown.

Thank you for coming with me, Rey. I'm not sure I could do this alone.

Wouldn’t want it any other way. Honestly it is good to get out of my own head with someone who doesn’t see me as the leader of the rebellion.

I'm glad. You won't have to do that alone either.

(pilot/dex Venser)

2

(7)

1

The signal sharpens as you avoid a reef that looms out of the dense gloom, and three more join it, as the first of the automated defense drones Ande warned you about are detected, 2 kilometers out

Rey you're seeing that right?

More not seeing it but yeah im getting something on the radar.  Do we fire first and ask question later or hope it runs away?

There's a chance the might identify us as friendly and guide us in but I'm doubtful.

9:49 AM

Venser tries to the access the drones on comms, to talk before they get in range. (edited)

You're able to find a clear channel without static or other interference, but there is no traffic on it

Communication Established the not-Ande voice says comfortingly within the vessel

This is ANDE Sub requesting permission to dock safely at the facility.

ANDE....ANDE....ANDE IS NOT ABOARD. ACCESS DENIED.

Venser sends over the recording of Ande. (If that's something I can do)

(Oh , like the snippet of her telling you she knew you'd come?")

(Yeh)

There is some confusion, as the contacts close to 1.5km from you, and one of them vanishes, though two others remain closing, and steady

2:41 PM

It seems these contacts are not breaking off, though the water is far too murky for you to see them

I'm not sure. I sent them a request and then a voice line of Ande. One peeled off, I'm not sure what the others are doing except close on us. Thoughts?

Lets move towards them, Worse comes to worse we can get out of this and come back in my ship as well.

Cool. Be ready on the trigger, I’m leaving comms open so you stay updated.

(initiative)

(7)

(3, you and Venser are acting first)

(Are we using StarShip Combat rules?)

(yessir, the expert system will control whatever stations you and venser are not at)

8:40 AM

(so just straight rolls, no bonus/malus)

Orders Captain?

Fire away, Rey.

12:05 PM

Captain: Support Department (Cost of a future action for Gunnery is 2 CP less)
Bridge: Do Your Duty (adds 1 CP)
Comms: Do Your Duty (adds 1 CP)
Engineering: Do Your Duty (adds 1 CP)
Gunnery: Fire All Guns (costs 3 CP), Fire One Weapon (would cost 2 CP but reduced to 0 by Support Department)

(edited)

12:05 PM

(First time ship combat, let me know if there's any mistakes)

Rey fires off the torpedos. (19/11, 4/6, 4/12)

The torpedoes sluce out of their housings and make trails of bubbles heading for the drone contacts. Two of them run past their target, the MK16 torpedo notorious for missing, though you're rewarded with a strong return as one of them makes a splash, knocking one of the drones from the screen. (19/3) out of the expanding debris cloud a pair of torpedoes returns in your direction, one of them scraping a long line down the hull and causing a few minor leaks, though not making its way inside the craft

(can we have the sub stats pinned please)

1

Eisheru, et al. pinned a message to this channel. 8/5/2020 1:07 PM

(Thanks Eish!)

1

1:13 PM

Captain: Support Department (Cost of a future action for Bridge is 2 CP less)

Bridge: Evasive Maneuvers (would cost 2 CP but reduced to 0 by Support Department, Pilot/Int of 7 to add 2 to AC)

Comms: Do Your Duty (adds 1 CP)

Engineering: Do Your Duty (adds 1 CP)

Gunnery: Fire One Weapon (costs 2 CP)

(edited)

Rey fires (12/13) Good Calls on these dont want to have to abandon the ship due to damage.

The torpedo misses its target, running wide of its intended victim and plowing into the sea bed

11:41 AM

The remaining drone is confused in all the silt and upturned debris from its partner, and fires a spread far wide of anything close to your vessel

Ok Rey get ready for a barrage!

1:46 PM

Captain: Support Department (Cost of a future action for Gunnery is 2 CP less)

Bridge: Above and Beyond (Pilot/Dex of 8 as Venser carefully maneuvers the sub to set up Rey up for a broadside, a success adds 3 CP, a failure costs 1 CP)

Comms: Do Your Duty (adds 1 CP)

Engineering: Do Your Duty (adds 1 CP)

Gunnery: Fire All Guns (costs 1 CP due to Support Department), Fire All Guns (costs 3 CP, this is not possible if Above and Beyond fails), Target Systems (cost 1 CP, Rey can use this only if he wants, this is not possible if Above and Beyond fails)

~~(make your roll first venser)~~ (edited)

~~(I did its 8)~~ (edited)

Wow thats alot of power to the system better Let her loose. Rey thinks as he begins the barrage. (21/8, 14/13, 22/10, 7/11) Hopefully that's going to be enough. Only 3 shots left on each gun. (Sory i thought i had sent this already.)

The torpedo screen does its work, and the final drone vanishes from the radar screen. Each of the drones that were turned seem to have sent some sort of information packet on their disengagement or destruction, the three parts now transmitting the location of the stash, deep below the sea on the ocean floor.

4:26 PM

A large hatch built into the side of an undersea mountain lies ahead, dimly lit by the sub headlights

Nice one! Better reload the launchers in case we need run into more trouble.

11:44 AM

Venser helps with this before continuing towards and into the hatch.

Rey reloads the arrays.

Good call and done. Let’s head out. I’m gonna stay down here till we make it there. Don’t know what else we will have to deal with.

Good idea. I think we're almost there...

The hatch begins winding open on its own as the submarine approaches. There are a few clangs and a boom as you emerge into a wide machine space that allows you to dock. Lights begin coming on, revealing boxes and tarps left in shadow around the room

Venser once again activates TK Armory and Spatial Awareness as he opens the sub hatch and pokes his head out. "We made it! I think the coast is clear." He says to Rey as he exits.

Rey teleports next to Venser, “Let’s see what’s in there. Hopefully it won’t be a bunch of killer robots.” Rey chuckles awkwardly. “It’s going to be killer robots isn’t it?” Rey says with dread in his voice.

Venser shares Rey's nervous chuckle before looking at the floor with concern. He snaps himself out of it and moves forward. "Gotta be honest, I was expecting some irradiated desert where we'd have to dig up a storage container. This is... Impressive."

The room seems clear of danger, the remoteness of the vault and the drone security on the way down evidently enough of an obstacle. Lights begin coming on, keeping the shadows banished to the far corners of the room

(Are there any exits to the room?)

(No this is the vault. Just the boxes needing explored)

Rey walks in slowly, trying to remaking aware for any killer robots now that he has jinxed himself. “You see anything? So far I’m not seeing anything but that’s usually a sign of either great or terrible security.”

Venser's smiles widens. "Nothing on my end, I think this might be what we're looking for! I have my precognition just in case." Venser hand still hovers over the feintly glowing gun at his side. "Help me with one of these crates?" (edited)

Rey nods and then walks over towards one of the boxes near Venser and begins to open it.

(d100 each sirs)

(29)

Inside, Venser finds a small box, covered in tight binary language Ghost Icon These devices most often resemble portraits of particular figures. When activated, an integral expert system animates the figure depicted in the portrait and is capable of conducting conversation with viewers. Each ghost icon’s expert system is carefully constructed from multiple brain scans of the original figure, and the depicted duplicate is capable of discussing any topic known to the original. Some expert systems are more willing to speak to strangers than others, and some might require convincing before they’re willing to talk to unfamiliar persons. While the expert system is capable of answering even relatively complex or nuanced questions, it is fundamentally incapable of changing or learning anything but the most superficial details of its environment, nor is it able to perform genuinely creative thought. Most ghost icons were made to preserve the presence of some wise or well-loved ancestor, though some were intended for less savory purposes.

7:12 AM

Ande's voice begins yawning. "Hello Mr. Reach. Part of me is meeting you again, it seems"

(19)

Venser stands there, holding the box at chest height, completely frozen. Shaking. He's clearly having some kind of episode within himself. It's not clear whether he's going to break down or throw the box across the room. (edited)

Perpetual Ration Pack A practical application of pretech matter editing, the perpetual ration pack looks much like a conventional compact mess kit. When any loose debris is loaded into the pack’s feeder it will proceed to transmute the matter into potable water and theoretically enjoyable nutrition. This process can function up to three times per day, providing enough calories to sustain two active adult humans and up to eight liters of water. The ration pack functions on solar power in most environments, but can produce up to twelve meals on a single Type A power cell if sunlight is unavailable.

Rey picks up the ration pack and grins, “Never without a decent meal now.” As he puts it in his jacket pocket. “What do you think is in the rest of these crates?” (How many are there?)

(hundreds, though the rest of it would be marked for various materials, and other things)

"Venser, Do you just want me to start packing these into the sub or do we want to look at the rest down here?"

Venser's attention is pulled away from the box towards Rey momentarily, snapping him out of his funk. "The smart thing is to load it all up, but I REALLY want to know what's here. Lets look around."

11:08 AM

Venser sets the box down. "An-ande? It's you? Part of you? You really have to stop doing this to me girl. My poor heart can't cope." He laughs subtly, pushing down a welling up of emotion.

"It is me, as you knew me, a fragment. I am Ande as Ande was, not as Ande is now" (edited)

"Ha! That's ok... 'Now Ande' was getting really into her religion." He laughs further.

11:13 AM

"What is your most recent memory?"

"Saying goodbye to you on the Wildstar, Mr. Reach, though that feels rather silly now, doesn't it?"

"It does a bit... But I didn't know you'd planned this far ahead!"

11:18 AM

(Did I nail this roll completely by coinicidence or was this a story beat?)

(the roll and item that went with it meshed nicely into the story)

(Neko you are the greatest)

3

"Hey Rey look! It's a Ghost Icon, of Ande!"

“Wait so, it’s ande but not ande? So it’s like ande’s back?” Rey pauses then realizes something, “Ande was there a way to get that first ship to reapond without aggression towards us? The ships logs have the entire incident.”

"I got one to go away by playing the recording she left up there."

"They all should have gone away. The programming may have broken down over time"

1:44 PM

"And they would have revered to their default behavior of keeping everything away"

"So there was no way to make it through. Good to know. Is this room the limit of the vault or are there more back at the ships to be found?"

"This vault is the conents entire of the planet's ruling class before the disaster hit"

2:44 PM

"you will not find a more valuable stash of information, supply, money, or power anywhere else in the region"

"Well thank you Ande!" Venser says as he walks to another crate and with the flair of a magician tears the tarp off the top of it before looking inside.

(essentially what im thinking here is the contents of the vault are going to ease some of the restrictions on whatever you guys are doing next in accomplishing some of your big goals)

3:04 PM

(rather than randomly award you quantities of resources)

(fair enough, so more like RP money?)

(yea, i was thinking whatever you walk away with, you could sell or trade it for what you do need)

(Awesome! Is there a specific value on this?)

Rey begins to load up the Sub.

Venser does likewise with telekinesis.

The cargo is loaded after several hours of work and fits in the cargo hold exactly. There is not a single millimeter of wasted space inside. With a lurch the sub disconnects from its moorings with both of you and the supplies aboard, ready to head back out

(Venser to answer you, its sort of like a plot point, a big one. I know there are some wheels moving behind the scenes to get a merc force/expedition down to Brezino, and what you found will help remove some of the obstacles getting it set up)

(and obviously if theres something larger scale Venser is working toward too, it can also help reach some of that. It's something we can spin off in PM to work out something direct, but this is meant to be a help)

1

Venser pilots the sub back up to the surface where they will likely transfer their supplies to the Wildstar

(the sub can also be taken if you want)

12:39 PM

(if you dont, we can leave it back with the derelict fleet if you decide to come back another time)

(How small is the sub?? I did not think it would be moveable)

(I was just gonna allow some ande fragment tech magic if you wanna take it somewhere else)

(Not gonna argue with that

)

12:57 PM

(Yeh we’ll take it with us)

“Venser, want to head through the L-Gate in search of pretech parts? We are in the neighborhood.”

“Where exactly would we be going?”

“Asgapur and through the gate. Then to somewhere? I’m not sure. The reports were at best questionable.” (edited)

(the gate is on Asgapur)

(i knew that but my fingers and brain werent talking... Musheera is the dungeon planet where pretech would be eaiser to come by but all the way across the map.)

"What do you need pretech for? I have one part if you want it."

3:14 PM

(We could also do the UNW endeavours )

(We could go try to convince the Iarian people to move to Gudrun. They are the only ones that i know of that might make the move.)

(Sure! I'm surprised, tbh I thought you'd be sick of me by now

)

(unless neko has any better leads on getting humans to Gudrun) (edited)

(the slyth enclave there won't move. There are a lot of displaced peoples in former NMC space, and around the former shaper cluster itself)

3:32 PM

(Also evidence of Geon on Thorfinna)

(Ooo that could be fun)

(Thorfinna do we know of humans there too or just the possible geon?)

(its airless, so just possible geon. Leonia was working this angle but she ghosted us)

7:38 PM

(they'll count for the objective though in this case, since theyd be living in central

7:38 PM

and not in the taros areas)

(Off we go then!)

(11 days in spike, for your downtime purposes if you're doing Thorfinna then)

(Pressure Field 33/99) (edited)

(Talk 16/90)

A patrol boat has made orbit at Thorfinna already when you arrive, and there is cursory exploration data from the surface of the world itself. Little exploration has been done but a collectiion of rocks that may be moving has been identified, and the previous explorers sent there have not checked in yet

7:23 AM

specialist help such as yours is timely, and needed

"I don't think anyone should ever consider us 'specialist help'." Venser jokes to Rey as he gears up.

Rey chuckles, "I wonder where that other team went. Do you think they ran into trouble or drink?"

“God I hope drink, that’d be a nice change of pace. I think regardless we’re running into some after this.” Venser caps his words by spinning the barrel of his revolver before flicking it into place.

Rey nods, and radios to the patrol boat for the explorers' plan and possible location.

The explorers were going to check the sections of moving rock on the surface below, as it had been thought there might be Geon there. Their rover is still at the site, and the rock has since stopped moving, and its power is still on, meaning it has not been destroyed, moved, or captured

9:20 AM

Radio signal has been cut off with the team however, and their vital signs have stopped transmitting, as they've gone somewhere the signal cannot follow

9:20 AM

There are exploration teams surveying other parts of the planet, and the ship is stretched thin trying to keep the rest safe- unable to mount an effective rescue on their own

“So we going in?”

"Lets head in." Rey says

(how close did you want to get to the area?)

(your call your ship venser)

(I wanted to check out where the rover is.)

(so land next to it right?)

(Yeh there about)

The Wildstar makes landing, kicking up large amounts of moon dust, about 500km from the parked buggy. Warnings about the airless environment sound on most of the panels especially near the airlock .

(Does the pressure field technique allow us to breath out there?)

(For a limited time like a vac suit)

(If I re-up it am I good?)

(No, you'd have to go back to someplace with air. It doesn't create it, it would just store some from when you activate the technique if that makes sense)

(Perfect thank you)

12:36 PM

“What do you think Rey? Psionic or real vacc suit? I’ve got some real ones in the ships locker I believe.”

“If I run into trouble and have to go into the void then I need a real one. So that’s my plan for now.”

“Good point. Ok: real ones to start, my technique as a contingency.”

(I forgot sub xp, 6xp, 10,000 creditS)

(Oh cool, and my goal completion?)

(done)

(I level up then)

1:46 PM

(Thanks!)

2

LEVEL 5 --> LEVEL 6

HP from 19 to 28

TP level 1 to level 2 (using all 3 sp from level up)

Gained TP technique: 'Burdened Apportation' (from TP level increasing)

2:06 PM

(Next level will be spicy, psychic training level 2 foci, will instantly get 7 skill points for telekinesis stuff)

3

Once Venser and Rey are suited and booted they head out onto the surface towards the rover.

2:19 PM

Venser despite his background has always been anxious in a vacc suit, having seen how precarious a space walk can be. And what happens to a person when left to the mercy of the void, one instance of which was he blames himself for.

Rey grabs an armored Vac Suit for the adventure and turns to Venser, "I want to try to do something for us to make this possibly eaiser." Rey reaches out and ties his Metadimentional signal to Venser's. "You should now feel more connected to the void and other things." (Concert of Minds with me and Venser.) (TK Armory, ~~Fade~~ Incohnito, CoM Comitted 3/9) (edited)

2

As the connection establishes Venser's eyes glow and then dim slightly as the void becomes interwoven with him. "Excellent. Nice work."

3:05 PM

(TK Armory, Spacial Awareness, Pressure Field on me and Rey as a safety net, 3/5 Commited)

3:06 PM

(Telepathic Contact also opened with Rey, Transmit Thought technique allows two way communication and Facile Mind means no effort is required if Neko you think we're practiced enough.)

(I'd say so)

7:51 PM

The buggy looks abandoned, not destroyed, and the gear that the explorers had looks to have been taken. nothing has been left behind signaling violence of a sudden flight from some kind of hazard. The tybe B cell still has half of its charge left in it, though the buggy is switched off- more evidence of their disappearing being voluntary

Rey walks up to the buggy. “Let’s send back a confirmation that they went willingly and then go track them down.”

Venser does so through his compad.

3:33 AM

"Very interesting... What could have caused them to just up and move by their own volition?"

"Im guessing the rumor of a Geon is more than just a rumor, I would be moved by talking to one. Especially if I saw one in the distance and wanted to see where it was going. I would have probably checked in but thats just my training coming into play."

(survive/wis. for some tracking)

8:05 AM

(at least to riff off something to start)

(9) Rey turns and begins looking for anything of note that may lead them towards the missing party.

(7) Venser has no real tracking experience but follows Rey's lead. (edited)

You find two sets of footprints in the moon dust, leading to a large carin of rocky spikes in the same blue tinted marble white that the rest of the moon is made out of. Curling around the back of the 50m tall jutting stone spikes, you find a cave, and what looks like many more booted footprints in the moon dust as well. A few dropped spears, and a fallen laser pistol are also sitting on the ground, with a thin layer of dust on top

Venser brings the laser pistol to his hand to examine it's make.

It is standard UNW issue, and recently built. The stamp of Pop's Armory on Gudrun is still crisp from its recent laser etching.

10:52 AM

(its barely out of the shrink wrap)

"Interesting" Venser thoughts project over the link to Rey. He pockets the pistol and continues on.

"Agreed, why leave a pistol behind. Maybe we should proceed under a cloak of silence." Rey sends back. (stealth check before proceeding?)

(yeah if you're thinking its necessary to go in quiet, for sure)

(stealth/dex 9) Rey begins to sneak forward. (edited)

(stealth/dex 6)

11:23 AM

Venser follows

trudging forward into the darkness of the cave you come to a room where glow globes have been strung up on the wall. A carved rock tunnel 50m away at the far side of the chamber goes down further into the ground. rock like creatures are in this room, though they seem to be dead. Many have were not armed at all, and those that were have fallen in reach of low powered rifles, and blackpoweder pistols

Those killed look to have been killed by a combination of solid shot projectiles, and sword strokes

Rey is hesitant to approach them. "Any idea what could have done this? Swords cutting rock? Do you think it was our group?" Rey sends to Venser

"It shouldn't have been, they were uninstructed to investigate and make contact..." Venser is struck by the scene.

"Onward then?" Rey looks to Venser to confirm before moving deeper in.

“Yes lets go.” Venser now draws the gently glowing hand cannon. (edited)

The tunnel floor leading down to the next chamber has another two Geon bodies, these were both slain by a pair of sword thrusts, coming from the same angle. there is low talking ahead, briefly punctuated by the shout of a woman and the squeal of something that sounds like a machine, before it is subdued (edited)

"What do you think? Hide and draw them out? We could make some noise with TK and wait for them to investigate."

"Clearly something fucked up is going on and I'd really like to make friends out of the Geons here."

”Let’s head in but slowly. At the first sign of something we hit to try to suprise them.”

”Perfect.”

6:03 PM

The chamber opens to a large underground lake where the water itself seems only about waist deep. In the center a large two story island juts from the water, and stalagmites carved into homes adorn the land like barnacles

6:03 PM

Lights at the top tier of the village in the form of torches are on but it’s impossible to see what is up there from down here

"Want to teleport up to see what is going on?"

"Yep"

"Lets Teleport on Go. I'm aiming for this spot, aim to be at least 10m away so we can keep distance and firing arcs separte. Ready? 3...2...1...GO" Rey teleports up to the to of the island right along the edge.

On 'GO' Venser does the same 10m away.

(initiative)

9:51 AM

You feel the room lock down, as though the entire weight and emptiness of the universe is crushing in on you, and your powers dampen, reducing you to what you can see with your own eyes, and sense with your own ears and skin. A sunblade finishes beheading a captive Geon with twin blows from his shortswords, as a trio of war thralls goad the next one forward with their long rifles- before forgetting their quarry as you materialize near the execution ground

9:52 AM

Rey would know them as the Extaurren Empire

"THE EMPIRE IS HERE?!" Rey shouts mentally. (do we still have our powers or is this just a you cant run away thing?)

(You're being nullified, but so is the sunblade)

9:55 AM

(so its just going to be a really dirty fight)

(ffs, intiative 1)

(5 for the Extaurrens)

(5 for rey)

(Rey, Extaurrens, Venser)

10:09 AM

(The war thralls are 30m from you, in the open. The sunblade and his psychic companion are within 20, but the sunblade is screening her from you)

Rey targets one of the Thralls with his growgun. (12/9)

10:10 AM

(As we dont have TK armory)

(What does the ammo look like? i actually am not familiar with much of it aside from the very general idea)

(it fires seeds that take a day to regrow. I have 20 shots with that and then it is out of ammo without water and a day to grow.)

(I alwasy thought of them kind of like Acorns that are shaped like a bullet flying out of a grown rifle.)

The small pod bursts against the ground, the shell sending spinning fragments off in a direction away from the combat. The sunblade adopts a defensive posture after moving 10m closer to rey and Venser, his short swords whirling before him. the three war thralls fire their rifles, (22/3 Rey, missing Venser)

10:32 AM

The rounds are cheaply made, and only one of them is able to find purchase

10:32 AM

(venser up)

(46/49 HP)

Venser's momentarily stunned, having never seen a sunblade and trying to gauge Rey's reaction before starting a fight. Though now he sees this won't end peacefully. First he teleports 10m further away from the advancing swordsman (backwards if I can, sideways along the edge if not) and levels his gun at it. Seeing it's golden light merely flicker he's decides to use it's conventional projectiles. (15/7)

(teleporting is disabled, everyone's being nullified)

(oh shit yeh, sorry make that just a normal run)

(10m is within your walk range)

10:38 AM

Moving laterally along the edge, the conventional slug sparks off the thick armor worn by the advancing warrior, who laughs contemptuously as his blessed plates protect him.

Rey moves 5m away from Venser, "Come and get me, Im the Hero of the Salt Flats, The Ghost of the academy COME AT ME!!!" Rey yells at the leader as he fires at them. (26 CRIT!/12)

3

The sunblade staggers as the grow pod strikes him in the chests and bursts apart, the blunt force enough to wind him. He clatters his blades together. "Willingly!" he says, charging into melee (14/6) his swords dance around you, and the thick armor plates groan somewhat as they bend around one another. the three thralls continue firing at Venser, trying to keep him from intervening in the melee (18/3 is the only one that might hit Venser)

(AC 15=13+2 from Armbracer)

11:40 AM

(are we still in a airless enviroment?)

(Nope sorry, AC 19 = 15 + half level rounded up (because ironhide) + 1 from vambrace)

11:59 AM

(I flavour it as subtle telekinetic shielding like one of the examples in the book btw) (edited)

(that would continue to work here, just not your actual powers)

12:02 PM

(there is air down here as well now, trapped underground like in a pocket)

(are the three thralls bunched up?)

(within a meter or so of one another)

(as in can I grenade them all?)

(they'll all need to take evasion saves for sure)

(ok ima do that, ~~do I make a roll or do they?~~ nvm I just read the rules) (edited)

12:35 PM

Venser grabs one of the grenades off his belt, brings it up to his jaw and tears the pin out of it before throwing it forward at the gunline.

12:40 PM

(8/8 so lands 1d10 m away from the target: the middle one.) (edited)

(2 meters away, 2 save, 1 does not, what's the damage)

2:11 PM

(8?)

(yeh)

One of the thralls is eviscerated by the shrapnel, though the others are able to avoid the worst of it thanks to their friend becoming a now mortally wounded pin cushion.

2:12 PM

)Rey up, the sunblade is now in melee with you)

Venser yells at them after the detonation: "AND I'M THE OWNER OF GRENADES, BITCH!" (edited)

Rey pulls out his monoblade. (14/9) "Lets finish this"

he laughs as the blade scrapes across the midsection, though his short swords are unable to do anything in return, as Rey weaves out of the downward blow. The two remaining thralls continue their fire on Venser, trying to keep him back from assisting in the melee, and keep him away from the nullifier, who has done little but ensure they are in partial cover, and are suppressing the fight. (missing both shots)

Venser lobs his second grenade (4/10), before spitting out the pin and edging towards the nullifier. The best thing I can do for Rey is give him his powers back.

THe secnd and third thrall are killed by the grenade blast, this one accurate, and the shrapnel finishes the work the first grenade started

Venser moves as close as he can to the nullifier readying the hand cannon again.

(rey up_

Rey Looks at the Sunblade. "I will be the last thing that you see before i burn your empire to the ground." (22/11) (edited)

2

This time, the monoblade sticks deep and you have wounded him heartily. Blood pumps through the gap in the plates where your blade has been buried to almost the grip. He pulls the blade further in, trying to get you too close to swing it where his short swords can do more good, but hes unable to effectively strike back

Hearing Rey's words, Venser realises that these guys are from the Empire that enslaved his friend's home. (edited)

2:45 PM

(How close can I get to the nullifier? I'd ideally like to deny her cover.) (edited)

(you can get right up to her with your move now)

(Excellent)

With no mercy Venser vaults over the nullifier's cover and lines up a kill shot. (22/7)

2

Rey grits his teeth and snarls out "I WILL RIP YOUR THROAT OUT." as he swings at the sunblade. (21/4)

1

(If you wanna dramatic it up, you’ve killed him)

3

Rey slashes out at the sun blade and it skitters of his chest armor into his throat. Blood gushes on Rey as he laughs. “Your empire will bleed far more than you.” Rey then takes his sword and points at the remaining men. “Surrender and cooperate or die.” Rey says while his face is covered in blood. Under his breath you hear, “This is for Silla.”

1

The nullifier is the only one left and have been severely wounded by vensers short range shot. The meat mulch that used to be the war thralls is not capable of cooperation or surrender

Venser stands there, breathing heavily. Spattered with some of the blood from the shot, the barrel of his gun smoking still aimed point blanc at the nullifier. “Drop. It.” He says, wanting his powers back.

She nods, losing focus anyway from the blood loss, and you feel your powers returned to you

Rey sees her surrender and realizes that it is over. He walks towards Venser, “I apparently cannot outrun the empire.” Rey finally notices the blood on his face and begins to wipe it off. “I’m sorry you had to see me like that, Venser. It was apart of me I never thought I would have to go back to. I don’t know if I can control myself around her. Will you do me the favor of interrogating her? Find out what their plans are and how many more are there.”

Venser puts a hand on his shoulder. "I'm so sorry my friend, you shouldn't have to face them here. But no need for apologies, you fought well. And I promise you we will get these motherfuckers. I doubt revenge will bring you peace, but that doesn't mean you don't deserve some. Liberating your home from them will however, hold on to that."

10:01 AM

He turns back to the nullifier. "As for you. Talk, NOW! Or nothing in the 'verse can save you from that man over there..." (edited)

10:03 AM

Venser as he speaks reactivates his TK Armory and Spatial Awareness techniques. But leaves the telepathic link for now. "Rey should be allowed his private thoughts for a bit." (2/5 actively committed)

(She’s unconscious )

11:48 AM

(She’s not dead but she dropped focus due to her wounds)

(Oh shit lol I thought she just lost her technique)

11:55 AM

As Venser turns he sees that she's past out. "Fuck..." He says to himself "Wasted a really nice line."

12:00 PM

He raises his voice to Rey without turning back. "Uhhh... Rey she's-- she's bleeding out."

Rey walks over and places hands on her and heals her. (Bio-1) “I’m going to go see what I can make of that over there.” Pointing at what the were congregation around before Rey and Venser arrived.

"Thank you, I promise you get this one if it comes to it. Good shout."

12:03 PM

Once she's awake Venser repeats the line.

The two UNW explorers and about two dozen geon are being held in the main rock building here. All of them are bound , and several bodies are also present on the far side of the room, all geon in that case,

“Venser.” Rey calls out. “There’s a group over here.” Rey begins walking back. “We can drag the captive over and help those inside while we wait for answers.”

"Oh thank God, they didn't get to everyone." Venser does so.

Rey comes over and lifts the prisoner bone to gently with his TK and begins walking back to the house.

Inside the explorers are trying to free themselves from their bones and having a bad time of it , unable to reach tools or weapons

Venser flips out a monoblade knife from his bag and begins cutting bonds. “Is everyone alright?”

Reynaldo moves to help. Dragging the unconscious nullifier along with him. (The nullifier is floating behind for clarity.) (edited)

Everyone seems to be okay, those few that are left here. None of them are armed though a few of them change that by grabbing the fallen rifles of the war thralls. They’re small in the geons hands but they’ll work for now. The largest of them makes its way over. “Thank you. The survivors of my village, and your explorer friends, would not have made it beyond the night if it wasn’t for you.

"Are there any more? Of either your people or the Empire?"

4:44 AM

Venser is slightly struck by a rock talking to him, but knew what he was getting into and hides his surprise, and more importantly his intrigue, well enough.

"We are all that is left now, and we did not see another one of their vessels land, just the one"

"Do you know of any other towns or cloisters that we can move to help support?"

"There are tribes across the planet. We had 150,000 between all tribes, two years ago when we met to speak as one people. There are cloysters all over the planet, though living here is becoming challenging"

Venser now reestablishes the telepathic link so they might be more in sync.

10:21 AM

"Well before we go any further, and if everyone is safe, I'd like to say it's an honour to meet you and your people. I've never had the privilege before. My name is Venser and this is Rey. Do you shake hands?"

"We learned, from your friends Leonia and Zia here"

11:53 AM

He reaches his hand out to say hello. "I'm Zircon. It is nice to meet both of you'

Venser takes his hand and gives as firm of a shake as you can for a boulder.

12:14 PM

"Well as it happens our capital planet 'Gudrun' is in search of new citizens, if you and your tribes are interested. I'm not sure how much Leonia and Zia have informed you about the UNW?" (edited)

"We had very little time to talk before those...people...arrived"

"Trust me we're no fans of them either. They shouldn't even be in this system, my friend here is one of the few that really knows anything about them."

(their shuttle is on planet somewhere too)

"In any case, we herald from the United Nations of Worlds. A polity that has popped up in the Iron Stars post scream that espouses planets and their government largely self governing but working together towards a larger goal. I could go on but the point is we need good people and you need a good home! I can't say we have a large Geon presence yet, but you could change that."

12:23 PM

(Good shout ty)

12:27 PM

Venser chuckles and rubs the back of his neck "Aha, I feel like I'm peddling some kind of religion... It's honestly just a good place, a safe and civilised place, to be in the Iron Stars.

"Tell us about this Gudrun. What is the planet like?"

"Fairly colonised by this point, the UNW was born from a corporation's settling expedition that crash landed in the Scream. Which slowly grew from trying to reconcile the expedition to abandoning it in favour of a new civilisation. But it still has a diverse mix of biomes: forest, desert, tundra, mountains, you really have your pick. Not like this place though to be candid with you."

"If we were to call the Rock-Pile together tomorrow, would you give these remarks to the chiefs in their entire? "

Venser becomes very anxious at the thought. But thinks back to his talks with the Jademane, the barricade at Rawhani and the Council meetings. His face shows a momentarily reluctance that he seems to push through with a look of determination. I can hack this. "Certainly! Are there any Geon customs I should be aware of?"

"None aside from what you have seen. Respect, and devotion to family are all. You have shown both in your dealings with us, and in saving our lives when it did not concern you"

"Thank you very much, I admire your ideals greatly and you're welcome to our aid. If you do not mind, might we pull Leonia and Zia over to piece together what happened here? I'm concerned about where these horrible people came from. Their shuttle must still be on world somewhere..."

Rey stands to the side watching the limp body of the Empire nullifier and occasionally poking it with his growgun to see if there is any reaction. Listening but content to let Venser carry on the conversation not trusting himself to speak.

Venser reaches out over the link. "Are you alright mate? I don't expect you to be..."

"I will be okay, After i steal another one of these bastard's Ships and find their hidey hole." Rey shakes his head. "I just want to strike back at them and hard. For them to reach this far up is crazy. We are weeks away from their base. to be this far this fast is insane."

"I get you, if I found one those flesh-shape thingies that attacked my home I'm not sure if I'd go apeshit or catatonic. But this could be a blessing in disguise. If they are an imminent threat, the UNW and potentially other polities as well can justify allocating resources to your cause!"

Rey grunts and pokes the nullifer a little harder than the other times. "Maybe... "

The nullifier stirs, gently, and her eyes blink once groggily before snapping wide open, and you feel the nullifying field beginning again

Rey nullifiers her first. Blocking her powers and his own.

there is a brief moment of resistance, before Rey is able to gain dominance

Venser feels the moment of tension in the air and as Rey wins out he excuses himself from Zircon for a moment. He turns and says "Ok. Talk, now. Or nothing in the 'verse can save you from that man over there..." He gestures to Rey.

Rey just gives a large grin as he hears Venser's words.

She looks at both of you defiantly, saying nothing, and using her eyes to glare at both of you

Venser spins his revolver out of it's holster and holds it pointed upward. His powers returned to him along with it's golden glow which flares up during heightened emotion. "I'm sorry? Do I need to remind you what just happened?" And he pulls the hammer back with a click. (edited)

"I'll die before I talk" she spits

"Then you'll die." He does nothing giving Rey the chance for anything if he wants.

Rey walks up and cuts the nullifiers throat.

The energy field fades as she finally dies, the last of her lifeblood flooding the dark rock of the cavern and dripping off the side of the raised island into the water below

Venser is partly shocked by Rey's brutal actions, but no he thinks, what else was going to happen? "If only Eish was here, we wouldn't need her at all for answers..."

Rey turns to the captives, "Im sorry I should have offered that right to you all. Please forgive my insensitivity. This group captured my entire planet. I will do everything in my power to fight against them."

"They killed dozens of us while helpless. We were prepared to do what you did, if you hesitated. Your display is not one of cruelty, not to us"

"I understand, How can we help? How can we move to protect more of your people while you still have fight in you?"

"The slavers may return, and likely will now that we are weakened by them. Anyone that can escape this place is a life you will save"

"You call them slavers, but it seemed they were systematically bringing you to summary execution?"

(Also reading the Unity Council, I didn't know the troop lander was here? Thought it was just a patrol boat and the wildstar.)

(It would be on the way if you agree to evacuate them)

7:51 AM

(its the only ship that can really do anything to help)

7:52 AM

"We defied them here in this village, tried to fight them off when their intentions became clear. You kill some, and hope to break the will of the rest. "

Venser looks very concerned. "Will you be able to assemble the 'Rock-Pile' with everything going on?"

8:05 AM

(ah gotcha, ty)

"Yes, this is a most important issue, and we must decide who will leave, and who will elect to stay"

"Well at least I already know you have one wise and thoughtful leader among you."

(I from my side of the table didnt have anything until we move to the meeting itself, but that leaves about a day of time for you two, if you had anything to do during that)

(I wanted to talk to Leonia and Zia but if there's not much to be gleamed from that I'm good to time skip)

9:06 AM

(I would however like to log our victory with my vambrace in the downtime, haven't done it before.) (edited)

(Same)

(We had two new enemies in this battle, you'll have time to get one in tonight as you weave your tales, so we can choose extaurren sunblade, or the war thralls)

9:10 AM

(the nullifier is kind of a niche thing, more for this combat than anything else, so i dont want you to waste your time on something you might not see again)

(Cool! I guess I will go with the War Thralls.)

(Sunblade for me)

(alright, that takes a few hours, Zia and Leonia can be spoken with as well, if you want)

10:09 AM

(Zia is an Ashen one who hung out with Skolli a lot, Leonia was a former rawhani megacorp data officer, who wanted a clean slate, former PC)

Venser brings Leonia and Zia over to talk with them after Zircon leaves to organise his people.

11:03 AM

"We are so glad you're still with us. What is the status of the rest of your team?"

"It was just us two sent out this direction, I dont think any of the others had any bad run-ins. we just got unlucky from the sound of things"

"So, take me through what happened? We found your intial site, the rover's still up there. But no communication to the patrol boat, you just went silent."

They show you a set of compads with neat bullet holes in them "Well, we landed and made contact with our Geon friends here pretty quick. Hard to miss moving rocks. They were leading us back to the cave where they've made their home, and it was out on the plains where they ambushed us"

1:53 PM

"there was a brief dust up, they had more of their war slaves when they landed, but we were still overpowered"

"I see. Do you know where they landed?"

"We thought we found a slight ping from the rover scanner, we'd probably need it to find it again out here in all this rock and dust

"Noted. How many were here all together?"

"They landed with twelve, the swordsman, his partner that cold woman, and the rest were the war slaves"

"So seven unaccounted for... You have anything to ask Rey?" He thinks. (edited)

"Nothing here. I'm just hoping that we can avoid the same thing happening here that happened on my planet. Hope we can get them to Gudrun."

Venser nods to Rey. "Thank you so much for answering my questions and for your bravery in this matter. I'll hail our ships in orbit."

(the unaccounted for are dead)

7:49 AM

(they skirmished)

7:49 AM

"Their ship...have to scan for it, but its out there. Might have information you need"

(ah mb)

(sunblade, the nullifier, and 3 thralls survived the skirmish when the geon/explorers surrendered)

2

"Venser, Can you have the Wildstar scan for their ship they were using?"

(I'm honestly not sure, can I?)

(wildstar can, and with a +2 if you have survey scanners

(I do not)

9:13 AM

"I can but it's not particularly accurate at this sort of thing." Venser brings out his compad and attempts a remote scan.

9:13 AM

(so is it just a straight program/int skill and the question I'm asking is 'where is the extaurren ship located?') (edited)

(program/int, its going to oppose theirs for seeking vs hiding)

(5)

(ends up being ( 9v9 with the seeking and hiding modifiers, with the tie defaulting to the player)

9:36 AM

A small ping, hidden behind a large outcropping of rock in a heavily cratered zone of the planet sounds once, then twice, before falling silent again

9:36 AM

a grease pencil is quickly applied to the map screen where the ping was, in case it does not pop up again

Venser mumbles "Yes!" before showing the screen to Rey.

"You found them?" Rey says with surprise in his tone. "I was never that sucessful in my dealing with them on that.:

"Ah beginners luck... But we have a location!"

10:16 AM

While he's on his compad Venser relays everything that has occured to the patrol boat, in orbit. Including the potential evacuation of refugees depending on the meeting tomorrow, and the request for a transport of said refugees. (which is being discussed in the Unity Council rn)

(yeah lemme check that now)

(no rush just something going on the background, think that's everything for me before we jump to the meeting tomorrow) (edited)

"Want to go check on that ship now while we wait for confirmation and the RockPile?" Rey sends to Venser

"Good shout. What time is it though? I have no idea on this planet."

It would be the local equivalent to 8pm at the moment

1

"Very well, lets go." Venser shares the ping location with Rey's compad.

Rey nods and moves out toward the ship. "Lets head out to see what we can find."

The shuttle is parked in a large crater, with a pale netting draped over it to partially break up its form and protect it from casual observation above. Pinging its electronics systems again, you're able to get a lock on it, and locate it

5:09 PM

It is a sharp, dagger nosed Slyth design, with a bulbous and up sized crew bay

Rey sends to Venser, ”Teleport in using my technique so you have more effort incase we get into a fight.” Rey teleports next to the ship’s hatch prepared for a fight.

The hatch is quiet and unlocked, the netting draped over it seen as enough of a deterrent to any sort of passers by who should not be here. The running lights are off and the engines are cold - appearing to have been for some time

Rey reviews the ship sitting down to check the logs to see if the empire still keeps good records, (Specifically looking to see how many came on this ship or if there are others that we missed.)

Venser teleports in using his small jaunt range after seeing the craft is deserted. "Oh sorry Rey. Didn't seem like anyone was home..."

All the members of the ship have been accounted for between those killed in the skirmish with the Geon, and the remainder you and Venser killed fro themselves.

10:49 AM

The shuttle itself is intact, day rations, medical supplies, slavers tools such as whips, goads, and shackles, and other devices of coercion are present.

Venser looks disgusted looking over the tools. "Bastards..." he mutters to himself.

2:54 PM

"Are we looking for anything specific?"

"Just where they originated from if we can. i wish dig was here for this. he has a much better understanding of computers than me."

"I can give it a look." Venser sits down in the co-pilot seat and tries to pull the ship's navigation history and/or the blackbox log. (edited)

The ship originated from Maitena, before heading to the Etxaurren system. It is slyth in origin, though must have been claimed by someone else before being transferred, as much of the navigational data of the route is lost

"I cant believe that they are traveling all this way in a shuttle. I guess the empire is more desperate than i assumed. Well lets head back and see if there is anything else that needs done. Otherwise i feel like it might be time to head back south."

"First we have to convince these Geon to come back with us. Rock pile is a fantastic name though..." (edited)

9:45 AM

Venser shares the location with the patrol boat in orbit. Unsure of the procedure for salvaging a vessel but thinking he should at least make them aware of it.

The vessel will keep an eye on the shuttlecraft. without a ship tender mount they're unable to lift it, or do much of anything, but if something sneaks by or it takes off, they will be there to run it down. The Rock-Pile is assembling by time you make your way back to the geon encampment, and chief figures from all over the planet have arrived by way of thousands of underground tunnels

”You or me? Or both?” Venser sends to Rey, seeing them arrive.

"I will let you lead for now brother."

The chieftans, medicine Geon, shamans, and wise women are here, all waiting to hear about Gudrun, and the other places they might go as part of the UNW.

There is some waiting, as everyone is eager to hear the plan, and what might be out there, but the both of you know that the evacuation has been approved, and the ship is en route

(Sorry! Yesterday was busy and I wanted to get this right.)

Venser nods to Rey with a caring look and paradoxically begins to psyche himself up for public speaking while trying to calm his mind. He chooses a high platform from which he can be heard and scans through the crowd trying to invite them all in with his smile. (edited)

7:56 AM

"Thank you all for coming. My friend and I here are representatives of the United Nations of Worlds, I am here to tell you what I have said to Chief Zircon and we will answer any questions you have. The UNW is a polity that has cropped up in the Iron Stars that espouses planets and their leaders largely self governing but working together towards a larger goal. It has many worlds in it's sphere and we are eager to bring all those that want it into the fold, to rebuild post-Scream."

7:57 AM

"You are all aware of the increasing difficulties your people face from remaining here on Thorfinna. Not least of which is this new threat of the Extaurren Empire, a faction we have only heard about until now. They are barbarians and slavers whose ideologies directly oppose that of both the UNW and the vast majority of polities in the Iron Stars that have cropped up. We have been made aware of the threat they pose and will take steps to stop them."

7:57 AM

"But that is all sector politics. What do we mean for your people? Well as I said to Zircon earlier you must forgive my zeal. I am not trying to pedal anything or make promises I can't keep. I am merely passionate about my polity because they saved my life. They gave me a home. And I want the same for others. Our plan is to take you to our capital world: Gudrun, should you agree. It is very different from this world to be frank with you, much more biodiverse. We have several major cities and more that is uncolonised, you would have your pick of forests, deserts, tundra and mountains. It is not overcrowded and there is work there. If you feel Gudrun is not suitable we can discuss other worlds with you, many are in need of good people and you need a good home. With all that said, I'm eager to hear your thoughts..."

7:58 AM

Venser takes a deep breath finishing, as the moment of suspense before their reaction drags on in his head. (edited)

One of the chiefs, an aged rock with a beard of moss, steps forward and plants his walking stick into the ground "What does this UNW require of the people who live there?"

8:04 AM

"And what happens when those requirements aren't met?"

Venser bows his head in recognition of the chief. "The UNW requires a tax of 1 galactic credit per person every month. Easy enough if even 1 member of a standard family is working. If this is not paid you accumulate debt, simple as. Other than that, don't mess with other peoples freedoms and they won't mess with yours." (edited)

This seems to be something they are strongly considering. "Geon society does not use things like credits. how does one normally earn these things in the UNW? Is there some sort of service we are required to do to get them?"

"You have the concepts of jobs, yes? A specific type of work some individuals perform. This is much the same, except the people giving you the work will either be the UNW directly, or a group with ties to it. They will give you credits in return for your work and you can exchange these for food and other comforts, anything you need really."

(yeah its mostly just them on a barter system now, so they just needed some refinement)

(I get it, the concept of money when you try to explain it is actually super weird)

The geon here all take some time, to call a moot among themselves and vote. When they return, the twelve chiefs assemble in front of you, and two of them produce something from crevases on their bodies

11:29 AM

Rey bows his head in respect upon seeing the weapons. (edited)

"These blades are made from the finest and sharpest rock, carried by our finest warriors for generations. You are leading us to safety, we have agreed to come with you, and we no longer need them"

11:31 AM

(they're essentially large advanced melee weapons, but only 1 enc, and count as small. D12 for the damage dice though and can be either modded , or have psychic techniques imbued in them)

3

11:31 AM

One by one, the geon elders pile their staffs of office in front of you, symbolizing their submission and gratitude to the UNW.

"Thank you elder, we will use these well for the defense and promotion of the UNW and your people by extension."

(so a fleet is coming to escort them out, you dont necessarily need to remain present for it unless you want to)

Venser also bows and carefully takes the blade. "Thank you, for these gifts and for the trust you've shown us." (edited)

(3xp, 5000 credits)

11:56 AM

That night, the first of the UNW evacuation fleet arrives, in the form of two corvettes. The cruiser, Highhammer, and the evacuation ship itself are set to arrive in the next few hours to begin the process of bringing the Geon to Central, their new home

Venser turns to Rey once they're alone. "Want to hang around for a bit or should we get out of here?"

"I dont have anything else to do. I think it may be time for me to head south. If your interested in coming..." Rey looks a little unsure of such a big ask of his friend.

(I think currently the fleet is gathering at Sumati, Ill make a group thread and we can inventroy forces going south so we know what's coming)

"Is it really happening already? No offence, but I was expecting this crusade to be years in the making..."

"I did to but when you ask a favor from a Billionaire i have found that you get more than you expect." Rey grins recalling Venser's request.

Venser smiles back. "True... Well on the one hand I might die. On the other, we are going to free your home. So pros and cons."

3:37 PM

Venser starts chuckling and puts a hand on Rey's shoulder. "Sorry I can't even pretend. Of course I'll come! You're my brother how could I not! And besides everything will still be here when I get back. That is, if you'll have me?"

3:38 PM

(New goal added btw Neko)

(done!)

(Thanks!)

(I'm good otherwise though)

"of course i will have you. It would be an honor to fight along side you again. Lets head out then." (sorry didnt see you asked anything."

(nw) Venser slaps Rey on the shoulder with an affirming look. "Excellent!" As they are walking and talking back to the wildstar he says: "Well I have asked the Unity Council to bring the Extaurren Empire up at Galatea, it could even be me presenting it not sure yet, that might help our odds. And as it happens I have just come into a rather large some of money." Venser grins.

(if we're ready, we can hop into Stev's thread, as he's waiting at sumati for a push south)

(I’m ships or on land in his thread?)

(he is aboard the pillar of salt in orbit)

7:32 AM

(with his small support fleet)

(I was just asking Rey IC if there is anything else he wanted me to help him with. I have a unit of pretech parts and a lot of money if we wanted to build the 'Retribution' or smthn.)

(all good as well!)

8:01 AM

(if we're not ready to kick things off now, there is something else I can divert stev to)

(Up to Rey in the end really. There's a lot of moving parts to this so I'm happy to be patient and good to go whenever.)

(No nothing that we can do now. We will just head south for now. It’s going to be a while.)

(Let's do it.)

(Btw I'll bring Blossom if she'll come. Sorry I've been very inconsistent with her!)

8:30 AM

(Blossom and Ghost Ande sounds like a fun crew.)

(She would come. And no worries

(Just a quick bit of admin before we leave.)

7:27 AM

Buylist

Ammo, 20 rounds x3 (30 credits)
Grenades x5 (125 credits)

(Getting rid of the monoblade knives because I have my cool Geon one now) (edited)

7:28 AM

(For the faction reward I'm mastercrafting my revolver into)

7:28 AM

Hand Cannon Revolver

Customised (+1 to hit)
Autotargeting (+1 to hit)
Boosted (+2 damage)
Extended Magazine (Ammo from 6 to 12)

(edited)

(Perfect. That doesn’t take any time to do since it’s a completion reward )

(Great! I was also thinking of a refit for the Wildstar? Putting in an extra fuel bunker and hydroponic garden. It requires a power trunk streamlining mod which I have a pretech component for. Not sure how refits really work.)

(It’s the build speed per day as far as the difference in cost

7:55 AM

(Since old fittings have to be removed for new ones

(shouldn't be really any time at all with the UNW build speed. Day or two at most)

7:56 AM

(I made this, just adds those two fittings without taking anything away) (edited)

(Docking at Sumati for a couple days would handle that)

(Perfect I'll post in shipyard. Costs 400,000 and 1 pretech component?)

(you have access to tinker 2 from the UNW yard and just please post it to #shipyard-updates ) (edited)

1

(Thanks guys)

(Oh just to confirm Rey and I got both Extaurren enemies we fought on our vambraces right? If not I’ll use a day of downtime to do the sun blade.)

(we only did one so far, think you guys actually chose opposite of one another)

(Yeh ok so I’ll use a day to get the sunblade on mine. Thanks!)

(Can Ghost Ande actually perform any VI type stuff? Or is she just to talk to?)

)shes automating the systems you’re not physically sitting at) (edited)

4

(Ah cool! I thought she was a talking box)

(shes got all the skills and memories she had in 'life' up to the time EXP took her from you. She is sort of resistant to making new ones. You would notice she is sort of conversationally diminished from where she was, in the sense shes a lot more animated talking about the past, and any conversation beyond that is limited to immediate operational things, or silence )

Venser reaches outwards with his mind at the intermission of the concert, trying to reconnect with one of the few people he can call friend after waking up from his long sleep. "Eish? Are you at the concert? If not then that's a lot of fucking money to not go to an event!" He jests. Likely noticing that Eisheru's space is... 'busy' at the moment he leaves it at: "If at some point you have some time on your hands, feel free to come and find me. I'd love to catch up." @Eisheru, et al.

(Sorry dude! I read this then totally forgot to reply) Venser finds a connection among the crowd of people at the concert as the Merlon's voice rings in Venser's mind "Ah! Venser! So good to hear from you again. I am, as you now know, indeed here at the event. Give me a moment and I will meet you by the bar in the back" A short five minutes later the stoic Merlon can be seen standing a few meters from the bar described. Seeing Venser a small smile graces his face. "Venser! How are you doing my friend?"

(No rush!)

11:02 AM

Venser gives Blossom a little wave and leaves her to her friends for the time being. He walks up to Eisheru with a wide grin. "Ah! Tidecaller Primus!" He gives a small parody of a bow. "In all honestly, so good to see you. I'm doing... well? I think? I'm not really sure what 'well' looks like for me but I'm giving it a go. Going off to war has me a bit anxious. I'm not much of a fighter..."

(Not sure if pinging is ok here?)

(Yeah go ahead )

(sorry bud will reply)

(It’s no problem really, just not sure if you forgot)

Eisheru shakes his head but Venser can tell through the connection that it is one of mock annoyance. "That you are alive enough to give it a go is doing better than most. I can appreciate the anxiety. That seems like a fairly expected reaction to what you and Rey are undertaking. I have no doubt that your resourcefulness will see you through to victory." "How has Rey been? And is Blossom doing well?"

“You’re right of course. I am incredibly grateful and lucky to be alive... Thank you for your trade legion by the way, it’ll go a long way to helping us. I’m sad you’re not coming with us, but I understand. You’ve got your people to look out for and you’ve already seen more than enough conflict for one lifetime.” Eisheru can feel nothing but Venser’s respect for the merlon through the connection. “Rey’s excited, even if he doesn’t wear it so plainly. He’s been working towards this for a long time and I’m proud of him. He still needs to temper some of his pent up fury towards the Extaurren’s so he doesn’t loose his head in a fight. But I can’t blame him. I know how important home is and if I still had the chance to save mine, I would stop at nothing to do it.” "Blossom's really in the same situation as me right now, not really knowing her purpose. Probably part of why we get on so well. I think freeing slaves is purpose enough for now though. I just had a hydroponic garden fitted for the Wildstar actually. Ostensibly for efficiency on a long trip, but if I'm being frank, it's for her. She loves gardening, hence 'Blossom'."

"I wish I could come along. But with new planets joining the Confederation, there is a mountain of administration work that needs to get done. And delegates to meet with. The fact that I got a month away was a miracle." "Keep an eye on Rey. He is a good soul, but I can sense a very dark side of him. He blames himself for much. Help him so his anger doesn't consume him." "You seem to care very deeply for Blossom. I'm sure together you will find purpose enough for your lifetimes. You are a good man Venser Reach. Your conscious is a good guide and I do not think it will steer you wrong."

“I really appreciate that Eisheru. I will endeavour to do as you suggest. I’ve found a brother in Rey and I won’t let him slip easily.”

9:54 AM

“But please, enough about me!” Venser laughs. “How you have been mate? I heard that song, can’t say I can fully appreciate the meaning but I enjoyed it!” (edited)

"I have been well. Just finishing up a vacation with my good friend Dorian Guerra. You have probably heard his name thrown around in your unity meetings. CIS Chief and all that. Spent some time on Galatea together just not being needed for a while" There is a slight twinge when mentioning the song but Eisheru maintains his composure "Ah yes... Mr. Fury is quite the song writer... Although I am not pained by the song it is a rather... personal moment to my life and the life of a dear friend. Sometimes one does not wish to have their lowest point in their life laid bare for everyone to hear. But alas... nothing can be done about that now." He shrugs "Other than being here... my life is soon to be filled with endless meetings and briefings and treaties and trade deals... Am enjoying the quiet moments while I can" Eisheru gives a small smile, which Venser knows is a huge showing of emotion for him now given the Liberation

"Oh I'm sorry to hear that, but it's a nice song! He could and probably should make it more abstract though." Venser jokes but does show a genuine concern for his friend, he's always weary of what might be stuck beneath the surface with Eisheru. "Yes I'm familiar with Mr. Guerra, although I can't say I've ever met him. You know, mysterious intelligence types... I can certainly sympathise with the impending flood of admin however." Venser leans in, as if people are listening. "I'm probably not suppose to say this, but I hear I'm to be made fleetmaster for the UNW, at least on a trial. And when I return from my little crusade I should really take a Governance, they were thinking of me for Terezinho funnily enough. Could be a good excuse to meet, Tidecaller Primus." He puts a hand on Eisheru's shoulder, recognising the emotional cue "I'm happy for you Eish, I really am. You deserve some peace, and I can't wait to see what you do next!"

Eisheru is not troubled in that the song bothers him. But the feeling of minor concern for another can be felt across the connection. "They are making a good choice. None that I could think that would be best to take up the mantle of former Governor Seung. I might have to pay you a visit as you mentioned." "Peace has been fought hard for. Hopefully we can be good stewards of that peace."

"Thank you Eish, I hope so too. And while I don't like talking politics with my friends. I hope our friendship might work to ease tensions between the UNW and Greystar in the future." He hesitates. "Not that tension has specifically been there, but history can take some odd turns. We are the two 'superpowers' if you will and I'd like to have each others backs, not be at each others throats. I take solace in knowing people like yourself are at the helm, cooler heads will quite literally prevail, and I know a good man is always fighting the good fight over there."

"I think Greystar has shown many times over our willingness to be friends with, and help, the UNW. Barring a massive culture shift on the UNWs part, there will not be any hostilities aimed towards the UNW from our slice of space. I just hope that if Greystar calls for aid for a second time, the UNW governors will make the right decision."

"I do too, you know where my voice and my vote will be going."

7:56 AM

Regardless of how his 'emotionally reserved' companion will react, Venser wraps Eisheru in a big hug and pats him on the back. "Good luck, Eisheru." He says, before releasing but keeping his hand on Eish's shoulder. "If you ever need anything... there's probably a bunch of people that can offer you more help than me. Nonetheless; anything, anytime."

Eisheru returns the hug and Venser can hear his voice echo in his mind, "You always have a friend waiting for you on Acastus. Should you need anything, do not hesitate to reach out." Eventually Eisheru releases the hug, "Now go and enjoy the show, there will be time enough for you to be serious on your journey south."

Venser grabs a beer of from the side and points at Eish with the same hand holding the drink for emphasis. "Good. Point. You too, let me know if you want a little backstage party. Pretty sure 3 million gets me a pass." Venser dances away as the band starts up again. "Don't have too much fun while I'm gone! Love ya buddy!" He shouts and gives his informal salute.

Eisheru raises his own glass in salute and takes a sip. "Be well, Mr. Reach"

Dear Mr. Reach,

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to follow up on our conversation at the Unity Council meeting regarding presenting a plan to move to the war front with the Extaurren. I am wrapping up my meetings on Gudrun and will shortly be heading back to Shalini, where I forsee a few days of negotiations. I expect myself and the piggen forces of Shalini will be ready to move out of the sector within two weeks. I will have the ability to stop by other planets on the way to Shalini if there are any other preparations on those planets that would benefit from my assistance. I will admit this is the first time I have helped plan a war, so I will defer to your expertise in this matter.

Respectfully,
Dr. Truffles

Dear Mr. Reach,

I can currently count on the assistance of 60 piggen knights and 300 piggen-at-arms. Governor Rigers has been kind enough to fund their outfitting with modern equipment, so a long journey should be ideal to give them time to practice. Do you know if a UNW ship will be available to transport us, or should I make other arrangements for transportation? Mr. Pompeus is of course welcome to accompany us, I will be thankful to have an additional UNW operative as support and council.

Best wishes,
Dr. Truffles

To: Venser 
From: Proceus
Hello! I am doing very well, thank you. I still would love to join the fight at the front. As soon as I can, I will rendezvous with Dr. Truffles. Best luck until we meet.

(edited)

1

Upon seeing Sumati and the Twin planets Shriven sends a message to Venser, “Hey, I think I need some time to just process, this whole path of vengeance just feels... I don’t know. I want to help the zadack get settled and I don’t know how long or interesting that will be so I wanted to say, thanks, I have had a blast and if you need help I will be there if you call but I need to take some time to focus on what has happened.”

Venser seems almost mournful to start but becomes more warm and optimistic as he speaks. "I understand... I respect that. I do worry about you being on your own after all that's happened, but if you feel you need it I trust you. I haven't had many friends in my life, especially this side of the Scream, but you are a true friend. You have been a brother to me and I want to thank you for that. Likewise I will be there anytime you call." Venser chuckles. "It's going to be weird for a while not having you around actually. Just make sure you stick with your crew, they'll keep you sane. Seriously all the luck in the 'verse mate. Until we see eachother again?"

“Until we meet again, May the stars guide your path home safely.”

Rey looks back as he prepares to teleport away holding his tool kit. “It has been an honor, take care of your pups. They should return the favor. I look forward to seeing you again.”

Venser puts a hand on the head of one of the beasts. "I will. I look forward to seeing you too."

As the Wildstar pulls away from the Sumati system, Venser takes one last look at the fleet before engaging a spike drill back to Gudrun. "Please, let him be happy." Venser thinks as he gestures across his forehead, chest and shoulders. For the Father, Son and Holy Spirit... (edited)

(6 days back to Gudrun from Sumati)

(I wanted to confirm whether some of these goals have been accomplished? All good if they haven't yet.)

Gain reputation in a faction, 3 XP. (Since I'm now Fleetmaster)
Help/save a psychic slave, 3 XP. (For the Free Nexus)
Help Rey not let his anger consume him, 3 XP.
Make a meaningful contribution to Rey's expedition, 6 XP.

2

(Yes, yes, yes, and yes)

3

(HOT)

(2 new goals added)

2:01 AM

(Now 37/90 for Talk-0)

2:02 AM

(I wanted to go back to the academy and investigate the use of those psychic drones like Crane and Regulus said? Been a while but it was a really interesting story beat.)

(yeah we can do that!)

7:34 AM

(I believe those were being held at Nova Academy on Gudrun)

(Yep!)

7:52 AM

The Wildstar exits spike and heads for the Nova Academy on Gudrun. On the way down Venser speaks to the Free Nexus while Ande handles the admin. "I've brought us to our capital world, from here you could explore any number of opportunities. Do you know what you want to do with your newfound freedom?"

'I think i need to speak with your academy first. I have gifts, but I don't know how to use them outside of the little the Etxaurren Priests showed me'

"Well, we're headed there right now. I can introduce you to Crane, she taught me!" Venser chuckles as it seems a life time ago now. "What specifically are you capable of? The last Sunblade partner I met was a nullifier, but you would have tried that on us during the fight."

"I am a free nexus, I am capable of assisting others through the use of magic, but I am not a psionic, most free nexi arent"

10:14 AM

"You may have fought someone specialized. Some of the hit teams do employ nullifier partners instead, but the preferred paring I remember was always a sunblade and nexus"

Venser pulls out his compad and stylus and makes an additional note about the hit teams under 'Extaurren'. "Interesting, that does sound like these guys. Still Rey dispatched them all the same. Magic huh? I know a few guys who dabble with that, I reckon it's just psionics we don't fully understand yet, but I've never seen it up close."

Venser brings the Wildstar down to a port in Central as they talk and head for the Nova Campus.

Central Air/Space port is busy as always, aand after a brief inspection you're let out into the cool morning air to explore Central, the longest time you have spent here in some time

"Ahhh, smell that?" Venser takes a deep breath. "That's the smell of not the inside of spaceship. I grew up on a void platform but even I need a break sometimes." Venser and co stretch their legs for a bit, stopping by the Harvest Spirits for some fresh coffee before making their way up the steps of the campus.

The campus is not busy right now and rarely is on a good day. Although the psychics are tolerated and respected there is still an air of fear around the campus and most people cross the street to avoid going by in front of the building. Crane is behind the desk in her usual place hard at work

Venser remembers his first time shakily walking through the door, worrying about how he'd be treated, before realising how far he's come and pushing right past that air of fear. "Crane!" He says delighted on seeing her. "So sorry I've been away for a while, that took... longer than expected."

"Most important things do, Mr. Reach. We're delighted you've returned to us. The academy was a less vibrant place in your absence"

10:27 AM

Several books on elocution, one written by Headmaster Fate himself sit on the desk right now, most of them are heavily thumbed.

"I appreciate that Crane. I've had a lot of time in spike recently and just wanted to say your teachings on meditation and mindfulness techniques have been, quite literally, enlightening." Venser cocks his head to read some of the titles. "Taking an interest in elocution? Funny you don't think a robot like Headmaster Fate would be interested, let alone insightful, on great oratory."

"People forget he was a man once, before he had to be brought back to us in that metal shell. There's still a lot of human in there despite outward apperances

"Apologies, I meant no offence. People forget, but I tend to not know to begin with." Venser chuckles. "From my position I've only spent a few months in this crazy new world you've all built. I wasn't aware he was ever human, interesting... So why this specific field of study?" Venser taps the cover of one of the books on her desk.

"I've found myself taking up some of the assistant like duties for Headmaster Fate. I need to learn to sound lke him when answering some of the less important correspondence"

12:16 PM

"It's easy for us to think back and forth to one another, the real delay is actually writing out some of these replies"

"Interesting, good that he's trusting you with more responsibility! Don't be scared to find your own voice as well. I certainly found a lot of wisdom in your teaching." (edited)

2:41 PM

"Speaking of I brought some friends with me! You already know Blossom. And this is Crescent." He gestures to the two of them. "She was one of the few we managed to get out on our expedition south. She was partnered with a Sunblade so she has some skill in magic, nothing that I can help her with, she wanted to speak to the academy."

“Ah you keep finding more friends “ she says looking out into the atrium where your companions stand. “How is she doing mentally. Some nexus suffer when their symbiotic is killed. Notice anything off or wrong?”

"Can't say I have, although I wasn't aware that was a concern. She seems... happy, if I'm honest, as happy as one can be having escaped that. There's certainly no love lost between her and her enslaver. I've only seems glimpses of her abilities, still not entirely sure what a nexus does? You taught me about my MES but magic is still beyond me..."

made a roll20 sheet under unw companions for blossom

3:21 PM

so you can track her stuff

1

(Brilliant, thank you!)

“A nexus is like a metadimensional battery. They’re capable of charging others with that energy allowing them to react faster, expand their senses, avoid harm. That sort of thing”

(Shall I stop here for a while while we're doing ghoul king stuff?)

(we can finish the RP at least, since there's no risk to you)

1

"Oh, so kind of like a biopsion? I can see why the Sunblades would want them as partners. How do you want to proceed with her?"

"She is a victim, at heart really. She might have been treated better due to having MES, but to the Etxaurren I am sure she was little more than a skilled slave. She needs our compassion and understanding right now, and eventually it will be her choice on the direction of her new life"

"Yes, certainly. Apologies if I come across cold in this. I've just been on a ship with her for some time already, Blossom and I have been trying to make her feel cared for I promise."

"We're talking about her like she isn't here, already. I think we're both at fault a bit"

"Speaking of caring for our kind, how is Abigail? The sweet precog girl from Mariam?"

“She misses her mother and her friends but she’s old enough to know that her training means she won’t accidentally hurt any of them”

(So sorry about the xp thing! So rn I'm 27/39 towards level 7 but I really I should have 3+6+12+18+27+27 = 93 so I'm 93/93 towards level 10. I am totally fine in whatever way you want to handle this.)

(take lvl 10)

4

7:42 AM

(not going to penalize you for something buried in the rulebooks)

(HOT, ok I guess 4 level ups to follow)

Level Up 6 to 7
Focus: Die Hard 1
New Skills: Telepathy 2 for 3 SP ('Far Thought' taken)

(edited)

11:51 AM

Level Up 7 to 8
3 SP banked

11:51 AM

Level Up 8 to 9
3 SP banked

(edited)

11:52 AM

Level Up 9 to 10
Focus: Psychic Training 2 (9 SP retroactively avaliable for TK)
Old HP: 28
HP Roll: 44
New HP: 64 (with Die Hard)
New Skills: Telepathy 3 for 4 SP ('Telepathic Assault' taken), Telepathy 4 for 5 SP (Unity of Thought), Telekinesis 3 for 4 SP ('Telekinetic Ram' taken), Telekinesis 4 for 5 SP ('Telekinetic Flight' taken)
Current AB: +5

(edited)

4

1

(Is there a limit on the number of times I can get a new discipline to level 0 with Crane? I'm interested in learning a new thing or two, but I don't want to game it.)

(its a week of study to get to 0, time is a little fuzzy, but I'd say anything we pick up at this point would be done after the ghoul campaign)

(Yeh absolutely I'm just planning things out. I guess continuity wise Venser would have instead headed for Yauvani after getting back to Sumati, then to Gudrun after. So a couple weeks downtime at the academy would be nice as a story beat. I just made the goal of getting to level 0 in every discipline so I didn't want you to think I was now cheating it by saying I take 10 weeks of downtime and now know everything lol)

(Good to return to whatever now)

(Oh sorry didn't see this)

7:51 AM

(Let's go!)

(I was talking with Crane about Crescent and Abigail, good to move forward with that?)

(yes)

8:37 AM

"And shes a dutiful girl she doesnt want to hurt anyone'

"That's really good to hear. MES can be a very scary thing to a young mind, I'm glad she has all of this to support her." He gestures around at the campus. "On a similar note, can you and I talk in private at some point?"

"Do you have time now? You know better than anyone how hard it is to get everyone in one place"

"Ha! So true. I do, I was just worried about getting Crescent sorted and settled."

"I can handle that, and them. There's a rotating staff here, she'll get exposure to the major schools of psionics and arcana, and from there can decide if its something she even wants to continue learning"

"Excellent! Thank you very much. Shall we speak in private then?"

She nods and sets a signs on her desk that says she will be back i. Fifteen minutes. The heavy chamber doors close behind you and she gestures for you to sit in one of the plush chairs. She fills a glass of water for both of you before sitting in the other

"Ok, so." Venser takes a sip of water and a slow breath before beginning. "A lot has happened since last we spoke. I think your average person would hear this and call me insane, but I think of you you as a mentor, so I wanted know what you thought. During our retreat from Extaurren space, we had to make some very hard choices, awful choices. My mind was in complete disarray, I couldn't focus. I was filled with an almost crippling anxiety about the things we faced. The only way I found to cope was in the techniques you taught me. I started to take solace in the quiet of my ship when I could. I would sit in the sanctuary of my quarters and meditate, at first for just minutes, but that eventually became hours. It was the only time I could find peace amidst the chaos, and then it... it started to become something more. I began to achieve a strange clarity in those moments, where time and real space seemed to melt away. I seemed to find wisdom and insight, part of it was me thinking things through with a calm mind, but is was also as if I were receiving some of it from elsewhere? I swear, it was like I could feel the MES field around me..."

8:22 AM

Venser fidgets with the glass of water, like a shy child, feeling stupid saying all of this. But seeing Crane's serious and attentive attitude, he continues. "And I saw things, almost visions, like what Abigail described to me when I met her..." He sets the glass back down. Venser is clearly very conflicted, feeling the same swirling combination of curiosity, confusion and fear of the unknown that brought him to the academy in the first place. Like he's on the verge of some sort of discovery, but can't quite get there. "I don't know..."

“So you’re saying you might have focused your mind enough to unlock some metapsionic powers. Something like precognition?”

"Is- is that even possible? I figured most psychics were only capable of what came naturally in that intial set of training."

"There are other reasons abilities can manifest, especially if you're already MES sensitive. Stress, introspection, random chance. Other things can cause abilities to develop. Dr. Thorn was one such individual. The physical pain she experienced when her shuttle was shot down triggered a development of precognition power- even though previously she had only been able to master bioscopic techniques. there are also such things as wild psychics- mastering only an ability or two, but they do not torch somehow when using them"

"Incredible, so the stress that led to my original powers was just the beginning..." Venser is both excited and scared by the thought. "Is it possible to master, on some level, all of these powers?"

"What we call Full psychics can, with enough study, yes. Those with their minds fully awakened to MES find all sorts of ways to manipulate it"

8:01 AM

"I myself was the first gaiapsion in the iron stars, even though we didn't have a name for it then, or a formal understanding of it. Silvano Mazzio when he was headmaster dismissed it as just a variant form of telepathy"

"Thats an... odd, conclusion. Impressive though."

"We knew little then, out here on the frontier. Myself and the other first students wouldn't even come out of hiding that close to the events of The Scream"

"That makes sense. Can't believe I've never asked, but how did you survive the scream?"

"My powers were in their infancy, dormancy, then even. I didn't register high enough on a mental level for it to harm me, and my powers bloomed after"

"I suppose we all got pretty lucky... Damn shame what happened." Venser says with a mournful look. "I'm sorry, I missed out on being able to help then. I wasn't there, too busy having a seizure in a cold coffin somewhere."

He snaps back from a thousand yard stare. "In any case, not sure how I feel about these new powers, my current abilities afford me a great deal of utility and control. But becoming a Metapsion or Precog sounds like it could be more of a curse for someone with an erratic mind. Being overloaded by the sense of meta space all around, or bombarded with visions of the future could drive a person mad. Eish always kept a level head, but I don't think that's a fair comparison." He chuckles coyly.

"It isn't" she deadpans back. "Have you been to your office yet? At the Khmarna center?"

"I have not. Although in order to evaluate these psychic scanner drones for use, like I promised a while back, that will probably be my next port of call. Why?" (edited)

https://www.worldanvil.com/w/iron-stars-nekosmash/a/khmarna-metascience-center-landmark?preview=true

Khmarna Metascience Center

1:28 PM

"You might find some solace, and some guidance walking the halls there. "

(OOC I read that whole entry when it came out, love it!)

2:18 PM

"Thank you, I will. Weird to think about, but I've just fought in two seperate wars... I need some downtime. Would it be possible for us to train this new potential I'm exhibiting before I head out again?" (edited)

“I’m headed to Khmarna as well. We can certainly train on the way. We have students coming in from here and elsewhere “

"Oh, a retreat like that sounds brilliant, yes. I'd be interested in meeting some new students myself. I think I'm a good example of what this academy can do for people, not by bragging about my own achievements, but as testament to how you can change fearful MES 'sufferers' into safe, productive members of society who can feel good about their unique gifts."

"Maybe put less emphasise on the jumping into warzones bit though, that doesn't really scream 'safe'."

She laughs and by evening a flight to Galatea is booked for all of you. She seems happy to be getting out of the academy for a bit

Venser brings Blossom as always, hoping to get some downtime with just the two of them at some point, as well as giving her time to train her own abilities if she wants. (I did fill out the companion sheet for her btw, thanks for that, let me know if something doesn't check out.)

(I'll check it out, and its 6 days from gudrun to Galatea)

To: Venser
From: Eisheru

Greetings Venser,

I hope you have recovered from the Extaurren campaign. By the time you receive this message I will already be in Spike. I am en route to Galatea to conduct further research into the Pyramids. A stranger named Dave reached out to me via Adamaris Tidecaller, headmaster of the Acastus Branch. Given your previous encounter with the essence inside the Pyramids, I would feel more comfortable if you would join me in said research. 

I will be arriving in Galatea shortly. Will be good to see you again regardless.

Fair winds and following seas Eisheru

(Replied in #eisheru) (edited)

10:55 AM

(one week per discipline to level 0? so 6/7 Metapsionics for the trip)

(That's for training, you still need the 1 skill point to unlock it)

(otherwise i think it's 90 days?)

10:57 AM

(i forget if we allowed that grupp)

(The 90 days is only for level 1 techniques)

(I've trained disciplines to 0 with Crane before? But happy to go with what works, if I can't train psionics in spike)

(it normally requires 1 sp to train a discipline in a week of down time) (edited)

Nekosmash

(its a week of study to get to 0, time is a little fuzzy, but I'd say anything we pick up at this point would be done after the ghoul campaign)

(going off of this)

(yeah he meant if you are learning a discipline when you have an SP banked from a level up)

(oh damn really? I trained tp for free a while ago)

Nekosmash

(so, by the book, getting to lvl 0 takes a week of training in its most abbreviated form. Pre-scream, training would be done over years in an actual school like program to produce truly refined psychics. We can play that out, or at least spend the time, but we can't go beyond 0 without spending sp from level up, ect)

(here's what he told me at the time)

11:01 AM

('can't go beyond 0 without spending sp from level up' confused me mb) (edited)

(interesting well then go with what Neko has said!)

(more than happy to be corrected)

(neko da boss man)

(He's training with a metapsionic mentor NPC, not on his own time)

2

After the ritual, Venser stumbles back down the hallways of the Metascience Centre and up the ramp of the Wildstar to find Blossom. He left not long ago, fresh and raring to go. He arrives back beaten, bloody, soaking wet and dragging behind him a giant gnarly looking blade that's on fire. "Honey! I'm home!" He says only half sarcastically.

"Where...why....Venser what happened down there?"

"We uh... Put these Still Lady daggers together, you know like Eish said. Annnnnd, I guess accidentally summoned an arch demon?" It seems in saying this Venser is actually taking in what the fuck just happened himself.

Blossom sits on the bench next to you and starts cleaning the water and blood mixture coating your face and hands with a damp cloth. It smells a bit singed from the radiation low-dose laundry aboard- as water supplies are limited to cooking

"Thank you. To be honest my first concern was you, you're not normally that close when something terrible happens and I go charging into the unknown..."

"And my first concern was you were charging off into the unknown and might not make it back. I knew you would. I mean, you always do. I worry too though

"Huh... Well at least it's kinda nice knowing someone's worried about you. Tomorrow we're apparently doing another ritual, I'd like you to be close by. I'm sorry Blossom, I thought this was going to be a quiet retreat for some R&R but now we have to worry about accidentally poking the Still Lady by just moving into our room..." He smiles coyly.

“There’s always going to be a problem to poke at.” She says with some coy resign. “But we have today. And tonight. Let’s make the most of it”

"Deal."

(Alright im good for whatever comes next with the ritual done now

(Great! That was awesome. I wanted to do my training on Galatea, maybe some other academy stuff like talk to Reg and evaluate these drones, but not sure how that works with timings of the convergence. Kinda wanted to be back on Aliah to help the Jademane like LFG says.)

(Oh yeh also I have level up sorry

)

2

Saves post level 10 (edited)

Eisheru, et al. pinned a message to this channel. 1/2/2021 4:58 PM

Level Up 10 to 11
Focus: N/A
Old HP: 64
New HP: 70
New Skills: Metapsionics 1 for 2SP ('Synthetic Adaptation' technique taken), 1SP banked, 1SP from 'Psychic Training' banked
Current AB: +5

5:32 PM

(oh also AC increases to 21 because of Ironhide, 22 against anything on the vambrace) (Edited: Ironhide = 15 + half level rounded up (6), Vambrace gives +1 AC regardless and additional +1 AC if the enemy is on the vambrace. Mb, so base AC is 22) (edited)

1

(Sounds good. The ritual thread is still good for the beginning of the conjunction stuff )

1

(Just some goal stuff, I believe 'Visit Galatea/Regulus/Metascience Centre.' is complete, and 'Visit the CSF and negotiate for their probe.' is now uncompleteable?)

(Also was going to add a goal about eradicating any Still Lady presence from Gudrun, but if that's too close to the current mission thats cool)

(CSF incompatible. You got the visit galatea. And it’s a little adjacent since it’s going to habe an xp award as it is )

(Perfect, thanks)

(Also I know we skipped around there a lot sorry, I went from Galatea to Aliah to Gudrun, do I get downtime for that?)

(Yes)

(Great! So 8 days from Galatea to Aliah and the 2 days back to Gudrun, 10 total. Now 47/90 Talk)

(Goal check: 'Design a capital class ship for the UNN.')

(Complete

2

(Psychic Academy faction rank 'Adjunct' obtained, reward - 'Tangible Force Construct' technique learned)

2

(Psychic Academy faction rank 'Associate' obtained, reward - additional 3 SP towards psionics on next level up) (edited)

Level Up 11 to 12
[3 SP from Level Up, 1 SP banked from last level, 1 SP for TK from Psychic Training, 1 SP for TK banked from Psychic Training, 3 SP for Psionics from Faction Rewards]
Focus: N/A
Old HP: 70
New HP: 81
New Skills: Teleportation 3 for 4 SP ('Effortless Apportation' technique taken), Metapsionics 2 for 3 SP ('Psychic Static' technique taken), 'Impact Sump' technique for 2 SP, 
Current AB: +5
Current AC: 23 = 21 (Ironhide) + 1 (Vambrace) + 1* (if attack is from an enemy on the vambrace)

(hot! You can add still lady cultist to the vambrace as well)

(Oh yeh! Ty Neko will do.)

(Some goal stuff)

2:25 PM

(Goal check: 'Become Governor of a UNW world.')

2:28 PM

(Goal check: 'Evaluate the use of Psychic Scanner Drones.' I'm not sure what happens with this one with the MES scanner, its cool if it can no longer be completed)

2:28 PM

(New goals added, one of which is just a rewording of an old goal to make it fit better.) (edited)

(The two you’re checking are complete )

(Nice! Thanks mate.)

It's hard to not take Eisheru at his word, so when your 'emotionless' friend and mentor tells you to make peace with your loved ones before this next mission, you take that shit to heart. Before leaving for The Erudition, Venser speaks with Blossom in their now shared apartment in Central. He wanted to bring her on more missions so she could become an adventurer in her own right. But this is just too dangerous, he just can't risk it. He tells her how much he cares about her. He tells her to keep training at the Nova Campus with Crane, keep improving and taking those steps, little by little, to get back into the world after her resurrection. He tells her the Academy is a good place filled with good people and to not hold it against them if something goes wrong. No matter what happens, he knows she will go on to do great things and she should continue to be the wonderful person she was born and reborn to be. And, in the event that the worst should happen to him, Venser presents Blossom with his last will and testimony, asking her to be it's executor, and making her promise to not read it unless he isn't coming back... He kisses her and they share a heartfelt goodbye. Finally, he musters the strength to pull himself away, leaving her with one last thing to remember him by; a bonded Zadak beast, given a singular last command from now until eternity... "Protect Blossom."

2

The creature's chainsaw snout of bone fangs whirs once, in acknowledgement, and you feel its unity drift apart from your own. The connection fades like snow in the summer sun until it severs entirely- to be reconstituted with Blossom herself. The other two sullenly walk behind Venser as he marches out to Nova Academy, to catch the transport for the Erudition, and later, Donjon.

(we can come back to this then, now that the Donjon raid is over)

(Awesome! Just gonna take a day or two to figure out my next moves if that's ok)

(take the time you need)

2

(Think I'm going to join the assault on Rana, finish the fight. But I've got a few things to do in the meantime depending on how much time I have in game)

( it looks like we may be jumping right in

(Ok just three things then 1) 7 more days of downtime coming back from Donjon? And then 7 more to get to Rana? 2) Goal check: 'Discuss uploading consciousness upon death with Billy.' 3) Changed goal from 'Pass on the name and legacy of Reach to a new station.' to 'Recover and rebuild Reach Station.')

(Right on the downtime. Goal done for Billy Convo)

1

(Perfect. 2 days of downtime used to put Phantoms and Handmaidens on the vambrace, then 12 days used to get talk-0 to 59/90)

9:34 AM

(also I will pick up a bunch of shiny new dragonfire rounds so I can switch between acid and fire)

(Idk what your time spread looks like or if your revolver has mod room but there’s enough help around to probably dual port the gun so you can change ammo types

(I did that on the downtime getting to Donjon.)

(Perfect. Ebrythjng checks out then)

1

Dr. Truffles sends a message to Venser on his datapad from the shuttle back to the Veles. Are you ok? The Tidecaller's message said casualties but didn't mention names. (edited)

There's an aggravatingly long pause, before you finally see the words 'Venser is typing...' appear on the message chain.

OMG! Sorry! My compad buzzed and I completely forgot I even had it on me! For a moment I thought it meant a bomb was about to off. Scared the shit out of Eish. I'm fine! Ever so slightly maimed, but I'll be okay.

There's another, shorter pause before the next message appears.

We lost Daitrij and Linya. Hailey is in critical condition but getting help. Eisheru and I are on our way back to the Veles to debrief everyone. I'll tell you everything then.

Venser seems to deliberately avoid any titles or last names, informal as ever.

It's been a rough day. Thank you for checking in on me buddy <3 

How are you? Things seem to have gone well with the fleet and the invasion. I knew with you keeping the Veles afloat, they didn't stand a chance!

He's clearly trying desperately to keep an upbeat tone despite the dark and sombre tone of the events, too much sadness on his end already. (edited)

Dr. Truffles is typing...

Thank the ancestors you're alright. Losing the Herald and Agent Tychos are a tragedy, in a day full of tragedies I'm afraid. You heard right that the Veles gave a good account, we took down the Still Lady's flagship before it could do too much damage. But we lost three ships earlier in the fighting. We did what we could for the crews, but, well...

But you're alright! That's wonderful. I was worried sick...

Dr. Truffles heaves a sigh of relief and slackens back against the bulwark of the ship, before bending back over his compad.

Is this who we are now? I know she had to go, I know that. But I don't reckon I like who I'm becoming. I still see the piggen I killed on Shalini when I sleep, and I reckoned that was as bad as things could get. But I've fought in two wars now, and we're fixing to fight a third. And I don't see any of those people. And I reckon that scares me more.

I keep thinking the next fight will be the last before I can stop buying my people combat rifles and body armor and start buying them archaeological tools and soccer kits...

Oh Truff...

I feel the same. When I woke from cryo, over a year ago now... damn, I never thought I’d be going toe to toe with literal Gods. Never in a million years. I've noticed that I often fight with this cavalier attitude now. Like I honestly find this fun. And it's exhilarating, sure, but without that cocky, jovial veil, I think I'd go absolutely catatonic in combat, because most of the time I am just seconds away from death. When the fighting stops and the adrenaline wears off, I feel all of it. The fear. The guilt. The loss. This fight, it hit me harder than it ever has before.

But I find a strange comfort in our discomfort, if that makes any sense. The fact that you and I don’t enjoy doing what we have to do. That we’re anxious and stressed and hesitant to war and kill. That’s what means we’re still us, and that’s what means we’re the right people for the job. God forbid some self-entitled ‘warmaster’, who wants to do nothing but murder and conquer all day, ever gets the reins of the UNW. Then the fighting will never stop. Then we have truly lost.

I can’t wait for the day where we can lay down our arms too mate. 
But isn’t that the “why we fight”? So we can end the fight? So we get to go home? 

The Still Lady showed me a vision, an attempt to sway me to her side. She showed me myself, as one of her 'Chosen', her Grand Magister, leading her armies on a never ending crusade out into the universe, born out of her gluttony for worship. I told her to fuck off. She got me all wrong, that will never be my vision for the UNW, and I know it isn't yours. And we're the guys in charge, so we'll make it happen. 

Trust me, some day after we’ve clawed our way out of the dark, and built a better life for our people through all this blood, sweat and tears. You and I will relax, getting old and fat on some lovely Terezinhon beach, safe in the nation we made. And we’ll let our grand-kids handle the admin.

(edited)

Dr. Truffles smiles as he types his response.

Reckon I got a head start on you on "fat", but let's keep aiming for "old" too.

I needed to hear that Venser, thanks. I'm more at peace knowing you've got my back. Not just in a fight, but helping me stay focused on what's important.

Hahaha! You're not fat Truff! You're huggable!

Always. You hear me? ALWAYS. Love you buddy.

Dr. Truffles guffaws.

When you get back to the Veles you're getting a big one for coming back safe.

How do you feel about joining me on Shalini for a bit? I have something I could use your and Reza's help with. If so I can send word to have The Wildstar hooked up to the Gransow Lichen and we can make a leisurely space trip out of it.

That would be amazing! I just need to handle a few things first. Blossom still has some time left on her training, but if I don't meet back up with her she will literally kill me. Need to do a bit of training myself, but I have a plan to be slightly ahead of you all. Let's arrange it.

(Okay, bunch of admin imminent)

3:49 PM

Venser Reroll (Level 13)
============
Character Creation
------
Background: Spacer
Free: Fix -> 0
Growth [3]: +2 Physical
Growth [3]: +2 Physical
Growth [Plot Point]: +2 Mental
Class: Telekinesis -> 1 
Hobby: Pilot -> 0
============
Psychic Reshuffle
------
[39] Level Up SP + [3+13=16] Psychic Training (Telekinesis) SP + [3] PA 'Associate' Rank SP = 58 SP 
------
Biopsionics 0***
------
Metapsionics 4*** (-14 SP)

Synthetic Adaptation*
Psychic Static*
Surge Momentum*
Flawless Mastery [Reactive Telekinesis]*
Impervious Pavis of Will [Telepathy]**
------
Precognition 1*** (-2 SP)

Intuitive Response*
------
Telekinesis 4**** (-12 SP)

Pressure Field*
Telekinetic Armory (-1 SP)
Telekinetic Expertise*
Impact Sump (-2 SP)
Reactive Telekinesis*
Tangible Force Construct (-3 SP)
Telekinetic Flight*
Force Puppetry**
------
Telepathy 4*** (-14 SP)

Transmit Thought*
Facile Mind (-1 SP)
Far Thought*
Telepathic Assault*
Unity of Thought*
------
Teleportation 3*** (-9 SP)

Proficient Apportation*
Burdened Apportation*
Effortless Apportation*
------
Electrokinesis 0***
------
[0] Banked SP
[0] Banked Psychic Training (Telekinesis) SP
------
*Denotes Free Technique gained on discipline level up
**Denotes Free Technique gained from PA
***Denotes level 0 in discipline was gained from Academy Training
****Denotes level 1 in discipline was gained in Character Creation
============
Normal Skills
------
Shoot -> 1 (-3 SP)
Stab -> 1 (-3 SP)
============
Foci
------
L1 - Ironhide
L2 - Psychic Training (Telekinesis), Level 1 (+3 SP to TK)
L5 - Psychic Training (Telekinesis), Level 2 (+13 SP to TK)
L7 - Diehard
L10 - Gunslinger (+3 SP to Shoot)
L13 - Close Combatant (+3 SP to Stab)
============
Misc
------
HP: 1d6*13 + 4*13 = 99
AC: 15 + 7 (Ironhide) + 1 (Vambrace) + 1 (Force Pavis) + 1* (*Conditional on if the enemy is on the Vambrace) = 24 or 25*
============
Shopping List
------
Force Pavis (10000 Credits)
Taros Rifle (2500 Credits)

(edited)

(Also Donjon mission puts me at 9/12 Psychic Academy missions, so rank up to 'Professor' - gained access to the psionic forge. And the two faction turns I've done plus the mission on Sumati way back pits me at 3/12, so rank up to 'Specialist' - gained access to bio modification, taking Superior Coordination for +1 to all dexterity checks.)

4:02 PM

Post level 10 saving throws after the reroll (edited)

Eisheru, et al. pinned a message to this channel. 5/10/2021 4:02 PM

(New goals added)

4:12 PM

(I'll leave you alone now Neko

, posting some narrative beats in the morning)

(Sounds good. Everything crunch wise looks right to me)

2

9:34 AM

Once he returns to the Veles in orbit above Rana, Venser gets to work. He sits through the endless debriefings, coordinates some of the mopping up of their campaign, and generally helps Eish in any way he can. However it's not his place to be commanding a Greystar operation. And it's clear where he really wants to be after everything that's happened, back home with Blossom. With the fleet looking to translate back to normal space, Venser wraps up any and all business he has and joins Truff along with the rest of his friends for some victory celebrations, before going back to his quarters and packing his things. He pulls out his own amulet, almost identical to the one they gave to Hailey, and begins to focus on it, on that sun-kissed desert, home to the old Piggen shrine. After a few moments, his longing for Blossom literally tears him from reality and pulls him home.

9:34 AM

. The two share a heartfelt reunion as Venser teleports into one of her lessons rather abruptly. There's hugs, kisses, tears, and then whatever Blossom would do... He sets up a very private, very fancy dinner that evening, money being no object for the young millionaire. He tells her all about Donjon, Rana, the Still Lady, everything. Yes, even what happened to Daitrij and Linya, he can't lie to Blossom, doing so might very well kill him. She offers him comfort for the recent horrors he's experienced and Venser finally feels some peace and rest since. After a bit of a cathartic cry, he tries to shift the conversation towards something more hopeful. He's eager to hear everything about what Blossom's been up to since he left, how her training is going, the friends she's made, whatever she would like to talk about. That night he almost proposes on the spot, but stops himself. Instead he decides to take some time, let his mind clear a little from the recent chaos, let them share some adventures and, find a ring. After a couple of days of getting away from everything and spending time together, they decide it's best to return to some form of normalcy, and settle into a comfortable routine.

9:35 AM

. Venser spends the next month or so, doing something he's never done before: honest to god training. Other than the very basics, Venser has for some time been coasting off of his admittedly considerable amount of natural talent and an incredible amount of willpower, in order to come this far, this quickly. If you asked him, he would likely blame it on his supposedly extremely powerful Father, but perhaps that's not giving himself enough credit. His training and evolution as a psychic thus far has been by no means an 'easy' path. He's encountered his fair share of hardships, setbacks, and frustrating moments when he just can't seem to pull off that one trick. But with every challenge, he has eventually pushed through or, indeed, found another way around. And learned to shape this wild, frankly insane amount of raw power, in new and fascinating ways.

9:35 AM

. His days consist of moving between Shangra-La and the Nova Campus, testing the limit of his abilities and once reaching them, pushing further still. Picking up whole new disciplines and reviewing his suite of techniques to allow for a more focused skillset. The entire experience is one of collective learning. He learns from Crane, as does Blossom, Blossom learns from him, he learns from Blossom, and Crane picks up the odd thing or two from the both of them. Of course, being who he is, he can't help but show off a little when younger students sit in on his training. And while this might start out as flaunting his talents, out of an admittedly not-unjustified pride for his accomplishments, it eventually evolves into some proper mentoring on his part. He ends up working with Crane every now and then, to lend a little practicality and relatability to some of her lessons with novice psychics. Although he still thinks he should never in anyone's right mind be called 'Professor', as his Academy rank now reflects, he is slowly but surely earning the title, and is well on his way to next step, an 'Arch-Psion'.

9:35 AM

. Unfortunately, due to his lifestyle, this training is not purely academic. He spends a lot of time in combat training, both becoming more proficient with his weapons, and practising interweaving this martial prowess with his psionic techniques. The actual fight with the Still Lady played on his mind, especially his up close and personal encounter with Daitrij. In that moment he was quickly overwhelmed, and needed to back out. While this was absolutely the right call in the moment, he never wants to be the guy that cuts and runs. With that special, very human kind of stubbornness in mind, he swears he'll never back down from a melee out of fear again. Even if it means bringing a gun to a spear fight...

9:35 AM

. The idea that allies could turn on him so quickly really messed with Venser's head. They resisted once, yes, but what if the others turned? The thought shook him to his core. Suddenly, he had to be ready for anything. In his head, never written down, he started building contigencies, identifying weaknesses, counterattacks, anything. Doing so saddened him, but that didn't justify being unprepared. The most intense of his psychic training happened with this in mind, as he worked to become entirely resistant to all forms of telepathy. He would challenge other telepaths, the best he could find, to actively try and pierce his mind. Eventually they all failed, thrust out by his sheer force of will, until attempts just ceased to work. He prayed it would never have to come to this, but the first of many plans had been put into place. If Eisheru ever turned, he would be ready.

2

9:35 AM

. The Venser that eventually leaves Gudrun is not the same Venser that arrived. Ever the adventurous and caring psion, yes. But now, more focused, controlled, deliberate. Ready, at least in his mind, to take on whatever the universe throws at him next. First stop, Shalini.

3

To: Venser Reach
From: Maxwell Buchannon
Re: Pherusa

Mr. Reach,

The Assembly would like to thank you for your kindness in asking permission. We offer freedom of movement for members of other Galetea Polities so you are free to investigate the system. It was never officially a part of the Cooperative and thus you hold greater claim to the remains of the station than we do. I would like to extend my hope that your homecoming goes better than expected and will help provide you with some peace of mind. If you need any assistance the NMC would be happy to provide it if we are able

Sincerely,
His Royal Highness Maxwell Buchannon

(edited)

1

Ive heard word of Ande. Templar-Exemplar Ande would welcome visitors at the Chapterhouse. Via one Typasius the Veteran. In case you ever want to drop in…

Hope this finds you well. 
-B

Venser stops everything as he reads the message, a single tear rolls down his face and falls onto the compad, it's unclear if this is sadness or joy. "But where? Where is the chapterhouse??? PLEASE TELL ME YOU ASKED WHERE THE CHAPTERHOUSE IS BILLY FOR FUCKS SAKE!" Venser furiously shakes his compad as if trying to shimmy another message loose.

3

After a moment Venser composes himself and remembers to ask the damn question himself.

Thank you so much Billy! So she's doing well and not sucked into some giant 'Exalted Hive Mind'? That's just brilliant! Uh- where is this chapterhouse?

@Paxcyan Wilder (Billy)

I couldn’t tell you, bud. That’s why I asked. You really can’t know until you see her right? I didn’t ask where the chapterhouse was, but Ty is doing a job for me right now so I figured I’d let you know before I go asking all the questions and getting too deep. It was a very brief meeting. He’s off to a dangerous planet organics can’t go to, but I’m sure he’ll be back.

Okay, that makes sense. Well thanks again buddy. Let me know if you hear anything more. If things aren't going well for her... let's just say I might need you for a job. Hope you, Madeline and Tsatsos are doing well.

You don’t get words back, just Phoenix symbol.

2:03 PM

1

Aurelia | Venser pinned a message to this channel. 7/10/2021 6:50 AM

(24 days from Shalini to Brizeno, now 83/90 Talk-0) (Paying 6,195,000₡ for Barnabas' Ship) (Question: Does Piglantis mission counts towards psychic academy faction missions?) (edited)

(it does)

9:23 AM

(we're learning about psi phenomina and piggen Rhunwork)

3

(Nice! 1 more for Arch Psion!)

Goal Checks:

1) Help Dr. Truffles discover the Piggen homeworld.
2) Liberate Brizeno.
3) Defeat Huitzilopochtli, The Winged Serpent, Incarnated God and War Leader of all Extaurrens.
4) Assist with a Psychic Academy faction endeavour. (Piglantis)

(Also not sure if any of the missions we did on Brizeno count towards my Psychic Academy total?) (edited)

)I don’t think the missions on brizeno would would since the psychic relevance wasn’t known until the final moments. 1,2 and 4 I would say are complete)

1

(Thank you!)

Level Up 13 to 14
[3 SP from Level Up, 1 SP for TK from Psychic Training]
Focus: N/A
Old HP: 99
New HP: 105
New Skills: 'Spatial Awareness' technique for 1 SP, Biopsionics-1 for 2 SP ('Mastered Succor' technique taken)
Current AB: +5
Current AC: 25* = 22 (Ironhide) + 1 (Force Pavis) + 1 (Vambrace) +1 (*if attack is from an enemy on the vambrace)
[Banked 1 SP for TK from Psychic Training]

(I’m set for whatever comes next buddy)

(Got a couple bits and pieces to take care of first, but reckon it's time to check out Reach Station! Billy offered some ships to tug it a while back. Reckon we acquire those, pick up Blossom, and go investigate. Then I should really spend some time on the planet I'm in charge of

.) (First things first though, goal check: 'Prevent a psychic from torching.') (edited)

1

(yes)

(Best I can recall the NMC approved the station being taken so we can start the scene with the salvage fleet assembling at Mariam if you think that’s a good place to start )

At Haila, a large UNW salvage fleet is gathering to enter NMC space. Permissions have been given ahead of time for the retrieval of Reach Station, and the King has promised a few ships of his own will watch the recovery process and lend aid if needed. Three spike tugs, relic ships from the early days of the pre UNW Greenbriar Inc are making their final salvage run before decommissioning here, and they are joined by a UNW cruiser for escort, and Venser Reach's own personal vessel. He stands on the bridge with his companion Blossom, a woman re-grown from a scrap of tissue found on Rawhani, where psychics had been cruelly liquidated by the local government. A mighty investiture of post-scream resources stretches out before the man who became something from nothing, all set to reclaim the wounded station he called home for so many of his formative years.

3

Venser stands on the deck of the Wildstar and admires the view, one arm around Blossom as he holds her close to his chest. "You know, I think it might time for an upgrade when we get back." He taps the rickety but reliable controls of his beloved ship as he glances at the giant cruiser just barely inching into view at the edge of the screen. Then switches focus to Blossom and looks down at her lovingly, pulling her in closer. "I might get a little..." He whistles in a wild manner. "During this, it's uh- some wounds never really heal..." He muses, knowing she probably understands, but still needing confirmation. "You ready for that?"

“I will be there with you every step of the way. You will see things that bother you, but in the end this will change and this change will be a good change. Reach station will be reclaimed and will host families again. Maybe even our family “

Venser smiles wide at the thought and leans his head on hers. "I'd like that." He stares off into the black for a few more wistful moments before having to break and get things moving. "Alright, let's see here." He messes with a few controls on the beeping panel before him and adjusts a slider to find the command frequency. "Ah. There! Testing, testing. This is Fleetmaster Venser Reach. Calling from the Wildstar, designation 117-008. Ships, fall in. Is everyone accounted for? We all know the mission?"

THe missions profile is confirmed from all the captains. Everyone is honored to be part of the expedition, both old captains and new. Recovering your home is a matter of personal and polity honor- and those selected for this task are among the best in their respective fields. A good showing of UNW talent is on display here.

Venser looks back up at the console and takes a deep breath, almost tearing up as he reflects on how far he's come. "Okay... Then I guess let's do this..." He mumbles into the comm line before returning to a commanding voice. "Prepare for spike drill on my mark. 10! 9! 8! 7! 6! 5! 4! 3! 2!" He stops and takes the moment in as time seems to slow, a deep breath, followed by a cocky smile, as it speeds up once again. "We are a go for Reach!" Venser slams the spike lever forward as light deforms through the viewscreen in a dazzling iridescent spectrum as they are catapulted through metaspace. (Spike Route: Mariam -> Thorgerd -> Phegeus -> Zufiaurre -> Pherusa, I count 13 days of downtime?)

(I've got 13 as well, if we're not stopping we can bus on)

(Nope, I'm good to head straight there!)

https://www.worldanvil.com/w/iron-stars-nekosmash/a/pherusa-location?preview=true

Pherusa

7:38 AM

A nav marker is dropped at the Ice Sea planetoid upon entering the system showing the location of the NMC detachment sent here to greet you and assist with the recovery efforts.

(Now 90/90 on talk-0, 6/30 into learning Piggen) Occasionally, it can be anti-climatic, being wholly ready for a mission, having that exciting moment of the spike jump, and then... you spend two weeks in a metal tube, eating brown paste and trying to find something to do. Venser had felt this a few times before, but this was different. He spent the entire trip completely electrified, sometimes literally - his early electrokinesis training was not exactly going perfectly - but he spent most of the trip in trance, seeing visions of Reach, of home. He often encouraged Blossom to join him, the ghost of Ande could handle piloting the ship - and in her own way often joined them in whatever the VI equivalent of meditation is. In this liminal state they could while away the hours in relative peace, although he did often start to crave the good eating Truff would enforce upon him on a such a star/road-trip. Eventually, while attempting to peer through the precognitive fog of multiple timelines, visions of various cascading branches of events, that surrounded this uncertain voyage, the unmistakable feeling of being yanked from spike back into real space reverberated through Venser's body. His eyes shot open, and he instantly teleported to the bridge. Once briefed by his ghost icon, he hails the NMC crew. "This is Fleetmaster Venser Reach, speaking on behalf of the 42nd UNW Expeditionary Fleet." He puts a hand over the mic and smiles at Blossom. "I came up with that just now." Then returns to his message. "We come in peace and are set to rendezvous with you shortly, please state your name and transmit Galatean clearance codes. Sending you ours now." He swings a monitor on the control panel around to face him and taps a few keys.

The duty officer in charge of things on their end does the same, announcing the squadron is aptly named “Escort” and that they are there to picket for the recovery work, and assist if medical support or truly Complicated engineering difficulties are encountered. Overall, this is a UNW flagged operation and you can proceed as planned.

"Ahaha..." Venser nervously laughs to himself from the pilots chair and talks to Blossom. "I hate it when all the checks are over, no more preamble. Well I can't put it off any longer, all on me now!" He takes manual control of the Wildstar from Ande and guides the ship in, at the head of the fleet, towards the coordinates for Reach Station. Conducting the deepest scans possible as they go. (edited)

(program/int)

(Can I have Ande do it at lvl 0?)

(sure, we'd still need it)

(that's a 4 chief)

Scans show a dead hulk. There is no power, there is no life, there is only the empty pull of the dead air of space pulling at the bones of a station that went through a significant tragedy.

"Exactly as I left it..." Venser mutters under his breath. Parking the Wildstar a safe distance from the wreckage, the rest of the fleet trailing behind, Venser moves to the cargo hold. "Ok Blossom, my dear. We're going to be doubling up for this one, there's vac-suits in the locker annnnnd..." Venser clicks his figures and that familar bubble of hot air forms around each of them. "TK field! You know, just to be extra safe..." He dons a vac-suit, helps Blossom with hers, and proceeds with final checks for a psychically-powered space walk. (Activating pressure field and telekinetic flight, 8/10 effort remaining.) They stand facing eachother at the airlock, Venser has one hand on the mag-lever, and the other in Blossom's hand. He breathes deep for a few moments before simply saying. "I love you." Before pulling down hard on the lever and sending them both hurtling out into black, together.

"I love you too" Is all you can hear before you're pulled out of the airlock, set to float into the void wards the airlock of Reach Station. It is open from your previous exploration of the place, and someone has used white engineer pencil to try to trace the circuits here so salvage crews will not have to tear the entire thing apart to try to make repairs.

As they gently glide towards the entrance, Venser reaches out of hand to either trigger to mechanisms of the airlock, or tear the entire thing out of it's socket. Meanwhile, he telepathically reaches out to Blossom, saying nothing, but reassuring himself that she's ok and starting that oh-so-familiar intermingling of surface thoughts.

A small application of force is all that is needed and you feel her watching your actions and happy to be here in equal measure. The airlock comes open gently and you step inside to one of the reception concourses where ship crews visiting to trade here once would have been welcomed by Reach crewmen

"Where Dad met Mom..." Is the first thought that pops into his head as they touch down. "Wonder if this is the one." Blossom sees flashes of what he can only imagine that moment to have been like, his mother much younger and his father a faceless blur he has no frame of reference for. Venser closes his eyes an breaths in for a moment, light flashes behind his lids, before he opens them again to reveal the light settling into a gentle purple dye to the whites of his blue eyes. A purple outline of the dark station hallway stretches out before him as they continue on. (Activating spatial awareness, 7/10 effort remaining.)

Turning left you would be heading to one of the cargo assembly areas and supply airlock. Turning right you would head towards a workshop deck

Venser considers his options for a moment before turning right towards the workshop. "Probably nothing in supplies now... Still 'Raz' might have been cookin' up something cool that survived." He remembers the smell of burning soldering irons and welding torches as the Chief Engineer would while away his freetime, when the shop wasn't used for repairs, creating little gizmos and pieces of, often very combustible, tech.

The workshop door has been torn off. You do not see any bodies in here but you can see the custom tools Raz used to mix things are still here. A home made chemistry set with a complex array of burners, distilling equipment, and so on. THe set up is very elaborate. The glasswork has been broken in several areas, but the individual components for it can be replaced.

"If only I could show him the psionic forge today. He'd be mesmerized..." Venser gives the room a thorough search. (Anything in-tact in here that's now a pre-scream rarity?) (edited)

(lets get a know/int)

(6)

You remember he was working on something called Evergreen, which he knew was some kind of naval stim to help keep people awake and could help round out the normally fairly poor nutrition of a shipside crew member. He never got very close aside from capturing the somewhat minty taste the original formula was supposed to have had.

Venser makes a note to bring this to UNW scientists, unsure whether to be horrified or very intrigued. "Either way, glad I was never a Guinea Pig... Blossom, could you do anything with this?" He ponders as she is both a botanist and biopsion.

"with a formula, or something to work off. If we can find his notes and copy his set up, We can try to re-create what he did and then perfect it. I can understand why you want to carry on your friend's work"

"I want to, but this is waaaaay beyond me." He chuckles. "Thank you though." Venser takes a few images on his compad of the workshop setup, wrecked as it may be, and continues on towards where the personnel quarters should be. "If I can remember where his was, the notes we want might be in there. Also, you know... my room... Mom's..."

“This is not beyond me. Collect what we can , and I will try to fill in what is missing. Time is something we have now. Even if it takes years” she says, admiring what he has done with the scarce materials available to Reach Stafion

6:51 PM

“This is an efficient set up. Nothing has been wasted. Not a single thing “

"Raz always was efficient, kinda had to be up here..." He laughs half-heartedly. "Anyway, yeh. Might be something in his quarters." He says, hearing the comment about time, but still rushing for answers.

His personal quarters were just off the workshop here and you know in better days the smell of coffee or some sort of highly alcoholic stimm would hit you as soon as you stepped in. Vac suits sterilize the olfactory memory now, and you wonder if it might still linger when the station is repaired again. The bed is still splattered with leftover gore, his notes and a smaller personal workspace are also here. Among the desk you can see plans for "Zero-Gee" Thrusters

Venser is strangely frustrated by the scene, missing the smell while still seeing the gore, this isn't how things should be. Clearly he still feels that what happened here was some great cosmic injustice, no one here deserved it, even kooky old Raz. His spirit is lifted a little, however, at seeing the plans at his desk. "Now that, I can wrap my head around." He dives into the schematics while Blossom continues searching the rest of the room for notes on Evergreen. (Is this something I can decipher with my fix-0?)

(I think you'd get the broad strokes but not eally an idea of how to do it)

8:43 AM

The system is meant to clip into a vac suit or sealed armor, allowing freedom of movement in space as opposed to being forced to float and hope an obstacle or grab surface will halt your momentum. (basically an armor mod to remove the penalties a vac suit imposes, in summary)

2

"Well that's handy. Not for me, but..." Venser talks to himself as he pours over the designs. "Thankfully I know a few brilliant engineers..." He smiles, and secures all the relevant plans in his pack, before turning to help Blossom with her search.

(I'll let you decide if this is to become a project later, once we get to a place where the plans can be circulated)

1

10:55 AM

Blossom is not sure of several critical elements of trying to reproduce evergreen here, but she is recording what she can, taking pictures of how things are now, and you can already see her spending the trip back scouring galnet, trying to find the missing parts, or looking for articles about how things had been done in the past. The collapse of a truly galactic database has hurt in more ways than one. Videos, how to's, even common cultural knowledge is drying up out in the universe, unmaintained on server towers everywhere.

Venser hears his partner's concerns and makes a mental note to do something about that. "Even tougher back on Mariam with the technocracy gone... Maybe we could set something up with this station in orbit?" He muses, for the first time in a while feeling Raz's ever-tinkering influence withing him again. Eventually, they move on.

4:24 PM

Next up is the rest of the crew member's quarters. He approaches the first door with trepidation, the sign reading it once belonged to one 'Ensign Calloway'. The name calls up a faint memory, of a man only a few years older than Venser; fair hair, big ears, and a piercing laugh that could break a man's malaise on even his most dour of days. He knew that laugh once existed, but couldn't for the life of him remember how it went, only the feeling it brought into a room. Venser hesitates as he reaches out a hand to open the warped door by force. His mind darts back to it's last conversation with Eisheru, quoting the Merlon's words back to him, which strangely enough carry the inexplicable scent of sea salt, and the sound of crashing waves. "The answers you seek... They are within you Mr Reach. Not at the foot of yet another metadimensional entity claiming benevolence. You have been gifted with the ability to tap into the pure potential of the world around you. That same stuff of possibility courses within your veins." "No." He says aloud, commanding himself to put the hand down. "That's not what I was taught. Use all the tools at my disposal. I'll not have my home torn apart and the vestiges of their memory tarnished for nothing." He instead sits down in front of the door, crosses both legs, and closes his eyes, opening himself to that very flurry of possibility. Venser's mind races, filtering through metaspace for a selection of likely futures and examining each one closely. This is both a way of respecting the sanctity of the site, and - in truth - a shortcut to answers he's too anxious to wait for any longer. (Using Oracle to ask if I tear these rooms apart, including Venser's own and his mothers, will I find anything of value, either archaeological or sentimental? At my level I can look one day into the future.)

2

Looking into the future you see that in addition to the zero g thrusters plan, and something of a flawed work up for evergreen , you will also find a locket left behind from your mother , and your father’s gun

7:39 PM

(But we can abbreviate fo finding those things if you’re eager to do other things )

(Not at all. Don't want to rush this, but I am very excited! Also straight up just didn't want to turn over all the rooms and wreck everything, seemed like the most efficient way for a psychic to do it.) Venser's eyes flutter while they remain closed. His head is filled with flashes of empty rooms, before finally settling on the image of the locket and gun. He inhales sharply as his eyes shoot back open, dropping cross-legged back to the ground, not realising his vision had caused him to float slightly. He clutches his chest and tries to take a few deep breathes as Blossom comes to his aid. "I'm alright, I'm alright." He said, not being alright. "Just, still getting use to this vision stuff..." The vivid images linger in his thoughts as he collects himself. "I never had time to properly clear the rooms out... We left in such a hurry I- I was just a kid I-" Venser starts babbling incoherent nonsense until Blossom can get him calm enough to explain. Eventually they approach two beaten, steel doors. One reads 'Third Engineer Maya'. The other, sign half hanging off, simply read 'Venser', the words 'WUZ HERE' gently scratched underneath it. The station the doors were attached to gave the rest of their names. They try to gain access.

(Fix/int)

(9)

The doors creak open with a little mechanical encouragement , as you try to be as careful as possible. The light from your suits sweeps over the room

12:59 PM

You can see two bunks and a small work table, the eating area and the emergency air tanks. It’s buckled and torn but present in this space.

"Now if I were my mother where would I hide stuff?" Venser asks himself, having only seen a quick glimpse of the items in question which merely confirmed they existed. He works his way through the cabinet, gently lifting items with telekinesis in order to free up his hands to rummage.

2

In the back of the cabinet out of reach of young venser, and out of notice of the always hungry older venser, you find the items in question, packaged to be given to you at a later time.

1

"Well that was..." Venser's immediate thought is that it was obvious, possibly reckless, but he takes a moment to appreciate the true genius that only a Mother who knows her son all too well could devise. "...Clever..." The package floats into the centre of the room and unfolds itself. He sees the weapon and has some idea of what it might mean. But, still irrationally upset with his Father in a very childish way, Venser prioritises the locket, examining it closely.

An image of the man is on one side. On the other is you as a small child maybe about six years old. The resemblance upon seeing both images side by side is perhaps more pronounced today now that you’ve grown into a man yourself. Even then however you could see some of his features coming through. There was an engraving on the back once but the locket had deteriorated somewhat from age and then from the violence the station was subjected to and void exposure that came later. Perhaps someone skilled in these kinds of fine repairs could restore it but that’s for another time. The locket itself is gold, with a silver and gold chain with metal that alternates every other link.

Venser stares down at the picture, noting the resemblance and wondering under what circumstances the picture was taken. He eventually closes the locket and holds it close to his chest for a moment, desperate to know what the engraving said, but that information is a ways away right now. Venser dons the chain and secures the locket beneath his clothes, letting it dangle right next to the ramshackle cross his Mother also made him. His Father's weapon floats closer into view and he gives it the same detailed inspection, even pulling out Force of Will to compare.

Force of Will is newer, and more heavily modified. At heart the chambered revolver is still the same though your father fitted his with a compensator and several smaller modifications to handle higher grain ammunition. Whoever this was going to be aimed at, they were going to be leaving the confrontation with fist sized holes in them. This weapon is subtle in the ways sledgehammers are subtle. It was designed for maximum smoke and thunder, hitting like a nail driver and leaving nothing but decisive ruin on the other side of its barrel,.

9:31 AM

The finish on it was chrome once but it has dulled with the conditions it has been exposed to into sort of an ashy silver, far darker now than it was designed to be

3

(ermahgerd that is so badass, what's the stats on this baby? and any psychic enhancements I can see with metapsion vision?)

(no enhancements on it but TL4, 60/150 Range, 6 mag, still needs dex, 1 enc, 2D8 damage)

3

"So that's where I get that from..." Venser is reluctant to give his Father any credit, but has to admire this absolute beast of a weapon. It was certainly worthy of the name 'Hand Cannon'. He practices a few of his gunslinger tricks with it, spinning it into his holster before quick-drawing it in an instant. It feels good, if a little more heavy duty than his usual piece. Force of Will is built to kill, sure. But this thing... this was built to obliterate, regardless of the target. Venser turns to Blossom with a confused look, cradling it in his hands. "Why did he leave it...?" (edited)

"Maybe he wanted you to have it? Or maybe he thought he would come back for it someday?"

"But I thought he meant for me to have..." Venser looks down at Force of Will. "And now he's out there without a weapon!" His mind races as to what this could mean until it gets tired. "Nevermind... " He sighs. After a last nostalgic look around Venser's old room, he says goodbye and they continue on their journey through the station.

(we hit the high points, up to you if you want to keep on going or had some other exposition to play out or if youre ready to recover this thing)

(18/30 into learning Piggen while getting to Galatea)

(Thank you!)

(Alright. I’m up for whatever )

(Haven't forgot about you. I can throw some new msisions up if needed)

(Haven't forgotten about you either buddy. Terribly sorry, was working on a big epilogue post and then IRL took over, small novel incoming shortly.)

(sounds good!)

4:22 PM

Venser and Blossom eventually come to the bridge, the place where he first learned he had - some might say "suffer from" - metadimensional extroversion syndrome, the thing that has shaped the entirety of his life. He stands at the helm, looking out at the black he once drifted through, helpless, and alone. Now, he holds the deadly conditions of the void at bay by sheer force of will, with his closest companion at his side. Sitting in Captain Holbrook's chair - a position he was always envious of - he runs his fingers over the console. Just as he reaches the emergency power cell slot, a tiny jolt of energy jumps between his hand and the input. The console flickers to life and then dies away again, but not before allowing Venser to send out a single sensor ping, giving the fleet clear positional telemetry for the retrieval operation. From this vantage point, Venser spends the next several hours guiding in the relevant ships and getting the spike tugs secure, while simultaneously rigging disparate pieces of the outer hull together with telekinetic constructs in order to make sure his home survives the trip in one piece. Double, triple, quadruple-checking every aspect of the reclamation to an obsessive level, Venser finally gives the go-ahead for them to move to away from Pherusa and prepare for spike drill. As the airlock of the Wildstar seals and they can speak out loud to eachother again, Venser turns to Blossom. "Thank you, for coming with me-- for being there for me." They embrace and as he pulls away again, Venser lingers, looking into her silver eyes. "I love you." He says with a vulnerable smile. "I know." Blossom replies.

4:22 PM

. On the two weeks back to Mariam, the two work in tandem on various projects in the workshop, with the help of Raz's recovered equipment. Blossom looks into Evergreen, messing with a complex setup of stills and several variations of the formula - some of which might be best if they weren't tested in a vacuum sealed environment... Meanwhile, Venser tinkers with the thruster mod before quickly realising the engineering is beyond him. Instead, he stumbles onto the old Constellation Supremacy Front spike probe, the one he found near the very start of his journey with his dear old friend Proceus, while sorting out the random crap he's acquired over the years. In a lightbulb moment, he tries a hand at repairing and replacing the message of its internal computer with one of his own that he records in-transit. When they finally arrive in familiar space again, the fleet carefully suspends the barely held together Reach Station above the ice world of Mariam in a geosynchronous orbit and repair crews begin rising from the planet's surface. Venser can finally relax, both physically and mentally, as he lets go of the concentration to keep the station together and stands on the bridge holding Blossom, watching his old home being given the love and care it deserves by his new one. (Not sure how you want to handle this stuff but I'd like to start repairs on Reach Station and send out my modified spike probe to get a message to Ande - I'm good if we want a fix rolls for that, and I'll spend all the downtime necessary. After that I've got a couple more errands I'd like to run and some housekeeping.)

(I dont think we need a check since we have a ton of time to work on the probe

7:35 PM

(I think with the time spent we'd have enough to eventually brute force things

(Great! And in terms of the station do I need to dump some credits into it or get a project started in the UNW faction or similar?)

(We can fit the station and just wait for the build time to pass

1

Sometime later, Venser floats by himself in Mariam's outer orbit, clutching the spike probe as he surveys the vast tundras below him, impossibly far away, yet startlingly close. "Huh... Storm's brewing in the east there." He takes a deep breath before finally turning out to the endless nothing all around, more specifically in the direction he remembers those dreaded Exalted Path ships leaving in - whatever significance that actually has in space. He reaches out his hands and lets go of the probe as one lets go of a replica ship onto a lake, praying it stays afloat. He gives it a gentle telekinetic push combined with an electrokinetic jumpstart, before tapping a few buttons on his arm, causing the ramshackle delivery system to whir to life as it falls away into the black and, eventually, glitches away into spike. As Venser watches, he recalls the final recording of the holovid contained within.

5:05 PM

It said...

== DESTINATION: INSTALLATION 1313, DESIGNATION - THORG
== TO: ANDE of The Exalted Path
== FROM: Venser Reach
== SUBJECT: [INSERT BIBLE QUOTE HERE]

// BEGIN MESSAGE
Dear Ande,

I'm not sure if this message will reach you-- I can only hope it does.

For anyone that intercepted this: kindly fuck off...

Great, should just be you and me now. (Did the Bible quote thing work?)

Promise I'm not a stalking, I somehow heard - through an acquaintance of a friend - you were based on Thorg. I can only hope my information is accurate, or some miners are in for a weird afternoon.

I hope you are doing well, it seems you are of quite a high rank within your new order, damn right too. I was just starting to worry when I finally got some news, you never messaged, and I thought-- I thought you were trapped Ande, absorbed into some horrific AI hive mind for your processing power. I'm glad that's not the case, because I had half a mind to run up there with some of the UNW's finest and pry you out of their circuitry myself. 

So... what's it like? What are you up to all day? I hope it's satisfying at least. It still hurt, but I understand that adjusting the temperature control of my tiny free merchant wasn't exactly what you were built for.

I'm doing alright. I've become one of the most powerful psions in the galaxy, things with Blossom are great, and I think I saved the universe at one point? Needless to say I've got one hell of a confession built up if you're ready to hear it.

Please, either send this back, or find your own (probably more efficient) way of reaching out to me. Still looking forward to that sermon someday. Careful, or those Paragons and their Ogynena might just snap me up!

"Faith can move mountains." - Matthew 17:20,
Venser Reach

(I know real life is kinda crazy for you right now. Theres going to be a couple months by time the message gets there and any return message gets to you. We can do a couple adventures and if there's a reply it will drop somewhere in between all that time, or we can say you've been working on reach station and governor duties for the past couple months, we can resolve this, and if you think you'll be around a bit more, we can pick up adventuring after that)

(I appreciate that, thanks Neko. I knew this would take a while but just wanted to set it in motion, I don’t mind how long it takes. I’ve got some character admin to run by you and a couple more things to at least set in motion, namely getting a sanctum on Mariam and finding someone to restore the engraving on Venser’s pendant. From there I’m torn between investigating the shadows on Mariam/what happened with Abigail, or starting something new!)

(sounds good, hit me with that admin whenever)

1

(1 - Did I get XP for the Reach Station mission?) (2 - I believe Thulee's ritual was the last psychic academy mission I need for the rank of Arch Psion?) (3 - goal check:)

Reach the rank of 'Arch-Psion'. (3XP)
Recover and rebuild Reach Station. (3XP)
Get a lead on finding Venser's Father. (3XP) - (might need to wait until after the pendant is repaired)
Get a message to Ande. (3XP)
Acquire a sanctum. (3XP) - (I will post the plans for this shortly)

Aurelia | Venser pinned a message to this channel. 12/23/2021 8:51 AM

(6xp for that if we didnt hand it out already. We need to wait until the pendant is repaired, and i know plans are coming, so all the goals but the third one are complete)

1

Level Up 14 to 15
[3 SP from Level Up, 1 SP for TK from Psychic Training, 1 SP Banked for TK from Psychic Training]
Focus: N/A
Old HP: 105
New HP: 120
New Skills: Precognition-2 for 3 SP ('Alternate Outcome' technique taken), 'Thermokinesis' technique taken for 2 TK SP
Current AB: +5
Current AC: 26* = 23 (Ironhide) + 1 (Force Pavis) + 1 (Vambrace) +1 (*if attack is from an enemy on the vambrace)

(If that's all good, then I just need to sort an Archpsion reward and we're good to go, how does that work?) (edited)

(sorry i will check this now)

(Great! I've chosen Effort and Excellence of the Word (or wind, in Venser's case) sooooooooooo)

5:04 PM

new saving throws!

Aurelia | Venser pinned a message to this channel. 1/3/2022 5:09 PM

Venser finally makes landfall on Mariam, the world he's technically in charge off, though he may have been neglecting those duties for a while... He pilots his ship over a nearby mountain range, where he can see the final touches being put on his brand new sanctum that sits atop one of the highest peaks and burrows deep into the ice beneath. But, for this trip, Venser clears the range and comes up on 'The Hub', parking his beloved Wildstar on one of it's stamped platforms that sit just outside the dome. His goal(s): get the lay of the land, find a respected trademen who can repair his family locket, and check in on Abigail - this is after all, where they first met, and ever-since reading Loriya's mission report, Venser has been deeply concerned about what went on out in the frozen wastes...

Abigail is inside being watched over by academy members now, especially nullifiers. Nobody is sure what she is or why she’s doing what she’s doing- or if she can even control it, and they’re pouring every resource they have into finding out. Family tensions have finally boiled over and it seems her grandmother is leaving the planet entirely , preparing to head for Agaspur to lend her strength to the academy there

Venser walks over to the guards smoking cigarette outside the bubble's main gate, and takes the opportunity to test out his new Governor status. He gives a small informal salute as he approaches. "Greetings, gentlemen. I'm Venser Reach. How goes it?"

They snap to attention quickly. "Governor! Good morning! The city is quiet sir. It's good to see you back"

"Excellent! Good to be back, mind pointing me in the direction of the local leadership? I'd like to touch base with all the major settlements to get started."

Diretions to the Hub's town hall are given to you ,located in the middle of the city away from the walls on each side. The open air market is in front of the building and it is commonly the warmest and busiest place in the settlement at all hours of the day

Venser waltzes through the open market, having missed the homogenous buzz of a bustling urban area. He takes his time making his way to the Town Hall, sending a compad message ahead and allowing them some time to prepare for his sudden arrival. In the meantime, Venser investigate several of the stalls, purchasing (at least what he thinks is) a local Mariam delicacy for a snack, and shopping around for someone able to repair his locket. (Need a connect roll or similar?) (edited)

(connect.cha works!)

Venser approaches one knowledgeable looking market clerk and absolutely fumbles the conversation in every possible way. He blinks to find himself back in the moment just before he approached the clerk. He readjusts himself and this time does a modest job at making conversation, learning from last time to NEVER EVER ask about his family... (Rolled a 3, using Alternate Outcome for a reroll, rolled a 6 instead, 10 effort remaining)

You're able to get a lead on a tinker who only comes by at night after a hard day's work at the canning factory that is his day job. He should be by tonight and might be able to restore the locket for you with the small personal sized machinery he operates.

Venser thanks the clerk for the information and makes a mental note, before proceeding to the town hall. Two heavy doors swing open on their own as he steps inside, taking in the scene and nodding to any who are present.

A clerk, a trio of security officers and a janitor bot are all inside, and almost no one seems to come in here. Your entry draws attention and interest. "Good morning Governor. We did not know to expect you. Forgive the lack of pomp at your arrival" the clerk says nervously.

"Not to worry my friend, I'm not really one for pomp." Venser says with a warm smile. "Still, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't intrigued to try out the title!" He chuckles. "I am just here to touch base. Get a feel for the place, as it were. Please, are there currently any local issues? And how is young Abigail's doing? I am here to assist you in whatever way I can."

(talk/cha)

(7)

They're not really willing to comment on the Abby situation aside from its made a lot of the locals very unhappy. If she was to leave, they'd all sleep better, and none of them have much respect for her actual parents.

"Well I'll check up on that situation immediately, assuming I'm allowed in, where is she being held?"

"She's at home with her family, and with the nullifiers sent to keep her sedated until more help could come. Looks like you're it. You're an academy member and the governor. It should be allowed"

"Right, well then... no time to lose." He smirks and clicks a finger, vanishing into a shimmer of purple-nothing. His mind is set on the dingy hallway just outside the apartment he first found Abigail in, as he wills himself to be there.

(You'd be stopped about a block away due to the nullifiers on scene unless you've got some gimmick to make that not apply)

(I do not, so...) Venser is abruptly shunted out of metaspace just as he approaches a swathe of utter blackness. The feeling is similar to that of skidding to halt while trying to run a 100m race, lest you smash headfirst into a brick wall that has suddenly appeared in front of you. He falls out of nothing onto a dusty road and tumbles a few yards before coming to a stop. There's a muffled groan as he pulls his face from the floor. "In hindsight, not my smartest move..." Venser picks himself up, dusts off his jacket, and continues to the apartment by foot, smiling and pretending that the many pedestrians present didn't just see their Governor eat a face full of gravel.

There is notably more official presence on the streets here both in the form of UNW expeditionary soldiers, Psychic Academy personnel, and the special phenomena division nullifiers ( all three of them) that the UNW sometimes contracts to assist with these sorts of matters. They look no different from anyone else aside from the holes in metaspace around them where reality is somehow even more painfully mundane

"All this for a little girl..." He mumbles, before pulling over one of the nullifiers. Unfortunately, a psychic can't help but feel a little uncomfortable around an active void-user. The dampening of his powers, the weakened feeling, a slight headache, the taste of iron. Something just always feels... off. "I require access to the child, and is it possible you can create an exemption in this null-zone?" Venser says, more direct and quite frankly short than usual.

“Headmaster Fate said no exceptions. We can’t be sure what’s making the shadows appear, or how she’s doing it, until that happens we have to make sure none spread inside The Hub. You’d lose one of your most stable and well off cities in a night. Im sorry Governor. The headmasters orders were absolute , that’s why he sent all of us “

"Goddammit, I can't fight off the Still Lady with two hands tied behind my back!" Venser yells, an uncommon occurrence to those he doesn't know very well. He immediately looks horrified with himself, pulling back and taking a deep breath to readjust. "Shadows- I-" Another deep breath. "I meant shadows... Please... At least let me see her." (edited)

You’re permitted inside. The parents have effectively stopped paying attention to her for now, trying with everything they had in them to fight a fate for her that they knew was coming.

8:21 PM

Abby is in the back bedroom with two guards standing outside.

Venser holds himself back from screaming at Abigail's Mother - that he warned them this is why she needed training, that as their Governor he couldn't give a damn, but as someone who was also once a poor lost child who couldn't control himself, the pain she is experiencing breaks his heart. It wouldn't fix anything, but she sure as hell deserved to hear it someday. Instead, Venser walks straight past her and towards the guards standing watch. He nods for them to let him inside.

One of them steps aside and salutes as the door is opened for you, casting a sliver of light into a dark room. The parents have taken the bulbs from the lamps it seems

"Couldn't have left it any creepier, eh?" Venser thinks as he enters the room, fighting every instinct to reach for his hand cannon. "Nullifiers, remain calm, this is Venser Reach. Abigail, you remember me, don't you?" He says, a ever-so-slight tremble in his voice as the lack of his darkvision technique makes him anxious.

"I..I think so. Where did we meet?" she asks, getting up off the bed but not approaching any closer.

Venser speaks slowly and tries to maintain a casual tone even in the eerie dark. "Oh about... a year and a half ago now? Right here! Me and my friend, Rey was his name, came to visit because your Grandma saw something in you, something wonderful! You are very special Abigail, you made drawings of me before we had even met, they were very good. Ringing any bells?"

"Oh! Yes! I remember you now" she says, happy at the memory. "Do you want more pictures? My parents took my art stuff away" she says sadly. Crayons have been replaced by felt tipped markers and watercolors now that she is a young woman, but her parents fear of the things she creates has not gone away

"I'd love some more! Why don't we catch up for a bit, and then we can see about getting your supplies back, deal?" (Also would I know why it's so dark in here? Is it a nullifier concentration thing?)

(no her parents just suck and kept the lights off)

(wow they suck) Venser waves his hands like he's casting a spell, unfortunately it comes off less Reza-Truff, and more stage magician. Finally he puts out an open palm and blows into it, simultaneously a dozen or more tiny glowbugs float out of his sleeve and scatter about the room, creating a dazzling display of shadow and light. He might not have his psionics, but nothing can dampen his showmanship. "So! What do you feel like drawing? What images have been popping into that noggin lately?" Venser lays down his compad in front of her and opens a drawing app.

"I usually can see things I want to paint in my head, but those weird men showed up and now i dont see anything. Maybe...some flowers? " she says, trying to figure out what to draw and not really grasping the bigger picture.

"Just between me and you..." he says in an exaggerated whisper "Those guys weird me out as well! What was the last thing you saw before they showed up?"

"My friend and I were playing in my fort outside, in the snow by the big tree. A woman and the police found me when we were playing and they killed my friend" she says sadly. "He isn't talking to me anymore"

Venser ears perk up at the mention of someone else, a flurry of questions rushes through his mind, only held back from his mouth by the delicate balance he knows he must strike in this moment.. "Oh that's awful Abigail, I'm sorry. How did you meet this friend?" (edited)

"He used to talk to me when I'd lay down for bed at night. Sometimes during the day if the room was dark"

"Oh? What would you guys talk about and get up to?"

"All the things in the world you can't see. sometimes he would tell me things about people. Secrets and stuff, most of the time he just wanted to play"

"So you two built a fort? I saw it as I flew in, very impressive! Although far too cold for someone your age, how did you guys get out there?

"I just didn't feel cold. The guards didn't see us leave. My friend said he made us so they would not see. THen we left and kept walking until we found the fort"

Venser nods in understanding. "I see. Abigail, sometimes people say they are our friends, but are actually quite mean and hurt us. I'm not accusing your friend of anything, and you absolutely didn't do anything wrong, but I need you to be honest with me. Did this friend ever hurt you in any way?" He says with a concerned, tentative look.

Her face gets very dark. "Sometimes when I don't do what he says. It feels like burning, but its inside me. I don't want to play the games he wants to play sometimes. I just want to color and play "

(What do I know about shadows in this regard? Is there some kind of exorcist ritual? Or would just letting it be summoned and shooting it a bunch work?)

(That's kinda the thing with shadows right now is we don't know much about them. I think it would be trial and error)

Venser puts a hand on her shoulder. "It's ok Abigail, you're safe, I'm here to make sure you never feel that way again. I'm so sorry but I need to ask more questions so that I can help you. Now, what games didn't you want to play?"

"He wanted me to cut wires in the snow machines" she says "sometimes he would want me to spill my drinks, or talk back to my parents. He did not like my grandmother"

"No... I suspect he wouldn't like me either. I happen to have a fort of my own Abi, how would you feel about visiting? We can see if he tries reaching out again, and I can be there to protect you."

"Are my parents going to let me go?" she asks, looking at the door with a nervous look on her face

"Frankly I don't give a shit." Is what he thinks. "Oh, I'm sure I can convince them." Is what he says. (edited)

2

She nods, and waits to see how you do i,t, but you can tell shes ready to go

Venser collapses his glowbugs back into a jacket pocket, and strides toward the door, gesturing for Abigail to join him. He addresses the guards on the other side. "I need two nullifiers to meet me outside, please escort Abigail to them." After they leave, Venser walks up to her parents. Getting very close, with a death stare on his face, he speaks quietly through gritted teeth. "I warned you. You had two plain clothes officers calmly explain the dangers of not getting her training. Now, you've got special division swarming all over the place, and your daughter has the metaspace equivalent of a biblical demon trying to possess her! Not only did you ignore her needs, you actively made it worse. Locking her in a room, your own daughter! In the dark, alone... You are... everything wrong with humanity, and you don't deserve her." He moves on the moment he is done speaking, uninterested in their response.

2

They dont seem to have the capacity to make one. One of the troopers goes into her room and begins packing clothes, toys, and of course her art supplies into a bag. The number of trained soldiers and guns around keep her parents from trying anything, or even protesting very much. They almost seem relieved.

Once outside, Venser meets up with the nullifiers. "Ok you two with me, I understand your orders, but we're not staying in the hub." He offers Abigail his hand as they walk, nullified, towards the spaceport. The ramp of the Wildstar slowly extends as they dock at one of the sanctum's many hangars - built directly into the mountain itself. Construction isn't entirely finished yet on the Fortress, as Blossom was just overseeing the finishing touches, so there's the odd bit of missing wall panel, exposed wiring, and some incredibly jagged ice tunnels. Venser takes in a deep breath of cold Mariam air, exhaling visible water vapour, before turning to a sheepish looking Abigail. "It's... a work in progress." He says, trying to convince her with a smile. "Honey! I'm home!"

(is blossom here or did we leave her at Shangra -La)

(She would have come along, sorry should have been more clear. This is our 'home' now, even if I don't take her on a lot of missions - though I probably should start doing that.)

Blossom comes to greet you at the ramp dabbing at the start of a bloody noise. “I was wondering why that happened. What’s going on?”

"Oh my god! I'm so sorry dear, knew I should have called ahead..." He reaches out in concern but she has it handled. "Uh- How to put this... You remember when we met properly for the first time and you called me a 'finder of lost people in need'? Well....." He looks over at the small girl currently making drawings in the frost with her finger, before turning back to Blossom with his 'I-Did-A-Thing' look, otherwise known as a non-verbal combination of 'I Don't Know' and 'I'm Sorry'. (edited)

She smiles, dabbing at her nose. You can sense the understanding and her acceptance of the situation. "I remember you telling me some stories. This must be the famous Abby. Abby welcome aboard the Wildstar. I think you're going to like where we are going very much"

Aurelia | Venser pinned a message to this channel. 1/14/2022 9:31 AM

(thius is on mariam correct? )

9:39 AM

(oh yeah i see that now, id say we're aobut done, might be a few workmen around)

(Yeh I thought it might be cool to use that aesthetic while we have it, plus if it blows up we can just keep the workers around to rebuild

)

2

Venser leads the group up into a 'psychic dojo' of sorts. Inspired by the ritual chambers at Khmarna, it's extends right out of the peak of the mountain, with high ceilings, wooden floors, and large panel windows giving a commanding view of the snow covered slopes around and below the sanctum. There are cushioned seats and sensory deprivation tanks for meditation, training mats for practicing martial skills, a few book shelves for study - though sparsely stocked post scream - and even a stone zen garden that sits on an island in the middle of the room. "Pretty impressive right?" Venser shows off to his guests, before getting to the issue at hand. "Ok, so... I don't really have plan here beyond turning Abigail's powers back on and seeing what happens? We can start some basic training, getting her to manifest MES energy might make her friend manifest as well. Now since so very little is actually known about shadows, there's a reasonable chance I could be spouting total nonsense here. So, anyone against the plan, please speak now or forever hold your piece." Venser stands waiting. (edited)

"We should agree on some kind of signal, like a kill switch, in case we lose control of what is happening here"

"Agreed, what if I were to establish a unity of thought between us? That way we all instinctually know eachother's condition and if the link dies, I'll know you've nullified us."

"I think this is acceptable. With what we know of the shadows, or lack of them, do you think there is any risk of the link letting it get into someone elses mind?" one of the nullifiers asks

"I've developed an immunity to unwanted telepathic manipulation, which I can extend to all of us for a time. Still not a 100% guarantee of anything, but we won't be going in defenseless." (edited)

"Alright, well then Governor, when you're ready, we;'ll get started"

Venser nods and closes his eyes, once again weaving a groups minds together and bringing each of them under the protection of his pavis of will. "Okay..." Venser's voice echoes in their minds. "Please drop all nullification and stay at a safe observing distance with Blossom... Abigail! Hi! Super weird isn't it? You can hear me but my lips aren't moving! You're Grandma can do this too ya know? Why don't you give it a try?" They begin working through some basic exercises, laying the groundwork for safe MES channels to start forming in Abigail's brain, and eventually building to some activities that will actually require to manifest energy through said neural pathways. (Basically, taking it slow but I'm trying to spark something that would get Ol' Shady McGee's attention.)

(mental save, and we'll paint the scene. It's going to be sudden so the nullifers wont snap right away)

(fail 5v6, or success 8v6, all comes down to whether or not I get my +3 metapsi bonus against magic and psionics on this...) (edited)

2

(It counts so we pass )

5:48 PM

There is something trying to work it’s way into the connection. Upon making contact with Abigail it feels like the gates of your mind are under assault

Venser notices this as they are sitting and meditating, navigating the vast web of quantum entanglements and possibility to exercise Abigail's precognitive powers. His eyes shoot open as if suddenly hearing a beast rustle through the underbrush on a hunt. "There you are..." He lets Abigail continue to meditate, shifting his own mind to the realm of telepathy and figuratively waltzing up to the parapet to address the foreign invader below. "The girl is under my protection, and I've dealt with much worse than you, leech. Now, what do you want with her?"

Her mind is untrained. Sweet, and innocent. This girl could become a gateway, and you could be rewarded for being its keeper the voice says, disembodied and seeming to speak to you from varying distances away

Venser feigns interest in the faustian bargain. "What do you mean 'a gateway'?"

Any mind is a gateway. Why do you think the academy teaches you how to guard yourself?

10:26 AM

For now, you don't sense hostility from the entity so much as a desire to play this conversation out. As long as you're talking, it seems like it's not interested in following any other plans for the moment.

This seems to suite Venser just fine. "We are taught moderation; how to stay within our limits, lest the fountain of power we draw from overcome us with raw energy." He responds, purposefully ignorant. (edited)

Perhaps it intones back but you could have so much more

Venser's echo takes a quizzical tone. "What are you? I'm serious-" The mental image of Venser up on a high wall pulls out a massive, old book and flicks through the pages. "-I'm looking through this codex and I can't find anything quite like you. Granted, most of the pages are missing."

I am an arcane muse. I select who I like for enlightenment and power, and this young woman can be shaped to great things if you let me

"Hahaha, Reza will flip his shit when he hears about this." He thinks privately. "Interesting... Why not try to take someone like me instead?"

You have gone through the process of closing your mind. Great potential comes at great price , and the pathways to doing so are closed to you now

"Well... what could you offer me if I steward the girl?" Venser paints a picture of himself completely corrupted by the power he wields, and ever hungry for more of it. After all, he had seen this dark parody many times in his dreams, or - more accurately - nightmares, a parting gift from the Still Lady. (edited)

1

Images of a peaceful galaxy, strong children, a compound where you and your loved ones are safe and your subjects happily work and prosper fill your mind. You feel warm inside, almost like this is some kind of dream had in the middle of a fever. Things seem both too perfect, but altogether very real and reachable.

"Wonder if Huitzilopochtli stumbled onto one of these..." "And what of the girl in return?"

Sign the pact, and we will be one. We will leave the girl alone

(I'm confused, we will leave the girl alone? But I thought she was the point, or is it now after me?)

(It’s willing to work with you instead. You’re torch resistant but powerful )

1

"If that's what it takes, Muse. But make no mistake..." The illusion Venser has created of himself - that of a greedy, megalomaniacal archpsion, more akin to Silvano than himself - shatters in an instant. The shadow is flooded with images of his life: Aliah, ANDE, Blossom, Abigail, Rey, Brizeno, Huitzilopochtli, Rana, The Still Lady. All the while the visage of Venser on the parapet bursts into light, brighter than the sun, and floats down off the high wall to meet the entity. "I am not some weak-willed, corrupt sorcerer that you can manipulate with promises of power and threats of harm. You will not control me!" He takes the creatures hand, symbolically accepting the bond. "For Abigail."

A metaphysical book and razor tipped quill materialize in the air in front of you. Sign it in the book. Make your mark

The quill dances over the page without Venser lifting a finger. It reads 'Venser Reach', written with all the playful flourishes of the wind itself. (edited)

4

(Okay. I’m gonna tinker with a couple things but I’ll post here when it’s done.

1

(didnt forget about you, about to change some things)

Durukti is a disembodied Arcane Muse who once showed interest in Abigail Silgrian and instead was bargained with to leave the girl alone. She now inhabits the mind of Venser Reach and rides his senses. Any suitably powerful telepath or metapsion would detect the second presence riding within his flesh. Durukti has three principles and whenever Venser Reach does something contrary to any of them, he will be forced to take a mental save. Repeated actions within a scene against those principles will suffer a cumulative -2 penalty to the mental save taken. Foci or other benefits to mental saves due to magic or psionic effects do not apply, as the enemy in this case is already within your mind Principles: 1) The pursuit of magical or psionic knowledge at any cost (while on adventure, she understands you have bodily needs and need to cultivate a life) 2) Revenge: Durukti has sworn an ancient oath of vengeance against the pre-scream Psychic authority for stripping her of her body, any of their living agents, and any existing sites should be destroyed if they can not add to her trove of knowledge. 3) Teach the Reader- a muse can allow access to unnatural levels of power and abilities never recognized by the Psychic authorities. Durutki's help refused too often will see your peril worsen tremendously. Judicious Understanding (Level 2): You acquire an innate comprehension of whatever legal jurisdiction you currently physically inhabit or have physically inhabited in the past. You have a professional-grade legal understanding of all local laws or law-equivalent customs. When making Know, Administer, Connect, or Trade skill checks related to legal matters or social customs, roll 3d6 and drop the lowest die.

5

2:59 PM

Two Minds, One Flesh: Whenever you or your partner must make a Mental saving throw (Aside from the save required when Principles are not followed) , both of you roll it. If either roll is a success, the target’s roll counts as a success. If both are failures, only the original target suffers the consequences. In addition, food, drink, sleep, or oxygen taken by one of you also nourishes or rests the other.

5

(

uh oh...)

(This is absolutely awesome Neko, thank you) As Venser meditates, his head starts to twitch, unnoticeable at first. This twitch becomes a spasm, like he's having a bad dream, desperately trying to get away from something. He oscillates, faster and faster, until the spasm becomes a manic, frenzied motion. It reaches such a point that the motion blurs, making it appear as though there are two different heads flickering back and forth, wrestling for position. The same bright light he emitted in the mindscape starts pouring out of his eyes and mouth, and the mumbles of discomfort turn to cries of sheer agony. Just as the nullifiers are about to pull the plug, Venser furiously palms a hand at them. "DON'T! PLEASE! I... CAN... DO THIS!" The light and screaming continue to build, as Venser rises up into the air, reaching a barely contained crescendo before suddenly slumping back to the ground, unconcious. He awakens to the sight of Blossom fussing over him, literally smoking as if just put out, with a brand new flicker in his eye...

"Venser? Venser!? can you hear me? What happened!?" she asks, as much to her fallen beloved as to the nullifiers in the room.

(Are the nullifiers trained in other disciplines such that they would recognise the presence of Durukti?)

(They have bio to keep each other up

11:18 PM

But that’s all)

"H- What? Ahhh, my head... I'm okay, I'm okay." He says, trying to get up, and only partly succeeding. Venser takes a moment to collect himself, ensuring Abigail is okay, and ensuring Abigail knows that he is okay. He dismisses the nullifiers, telling them he went into Abigail's mind and exorcised the shadow personally - to them it's gone and it's not coming back. The moment they are dismissed, Venser turns to Blossom. "Okay so all of that was a complete lie..." He says with an awkward 'please don't hit me' smile. "Well not all of it, it's true the shadow isn't on Abigail anymore. But that's sorta because... it's now on me." All the while, Venser's mind is moving a mile a minute trying to find Durukti. "Hello? Are you there? Did it work?"

It has worked. I must rest for now. We will talk soon. Wake me if you need me

5:55 PM

The voice is pleasant. You’re reminded of ANDE in a way, though the voice is how she might have sounded not coming from digital projection

1

Venser doesn't know how to react. There's a moment of recognition, followed by the thought that he's probably imagining it, before settling into a strange appreciation of the cruel cosmic irony that this voice in particular should be the one stuck in his head. "Listen, before you doze off; I know you'd have a long day." There's clear sarcasm present even in an exchange of thoughts. "You gave me your rules, so I'll give you mine - just one. You see this woman in front of me?" Venser stares at Blossom lovingly, and feels a feint acknowledgement before continuing. "If you ever harm her in any way - and I mean EVER - I swear to you, I will not hesitant to put a bullet in my brain and kill us both." The telepathic voice is flat, frank, and direct, but still possesses that subtle tremble of unhinged vulnerability that comes from even imagining something so terrible happening to one he loves. "Do I make myself clear?"

3

Your meaning is not something I could mistake. I will speak with you soon Mr. Reach the voice says, sounding as though it is getting steadily further away from you like someone beginning to talk and finishing their statement as they walk into the next room

Venser returns to real space, and he and Blossom sit, think, and talk for the next few hours about what this means. "I don't quite know what this is going to do to me, and I don't want to be around you when I find out... I think-" He takes a breath, struggling to get the words, they've lost so much time already. "I think I need to go away for a while... I've got people that get help me all up and down the sector, and most of them need my help as well. I'll put my affairs in order here, but then I have to go. I'm so sorry Blossom..." He stands in front of her sheepishly, wanting to hold her, not wanting to leave, not wanting to lose her.

"You're not leaving. You're not leaving without me and the girl, at least. Let's sit down and think about this. What do we know about shadows already?" she says. Her mind is endlessly churning over something- be it the arrangement of plants in her garden, the color gradient of her outfit for the day, or simply the chores needing to be handled that day and the best way to do it in. She has been an invaluable aide-de-camp on the Wildstar and in your personal affairs, and her talents are being lent to the effort now, too.

"Uhhh, metaspace beings, not always evil but normally... can have personalities, this one certainly does, I think she has a body once? I don't know..." Venser's mind leaps from thought to thought. "She'll wake up soon. You can't be here when she wakes up soon." If he hadn't be through so much already he'd likely be in the foetal position, rocking back and forth, tearing his hair out.

“Why not? Did she say something to you! “ Blossom asks, trying to get the rest of the details she needs

"She has these... rules? Certain things that are going to make her fight for control. I don't want to be turned into somebody's weapon, I refused the Still Lady for a reason." Venser goes on to explain the three principles, simultaneously explaining his new found gift for comprehending the spirit of the law.

"Oh well that's not me. I've been dead this whole time, and was working for the megacorps. I never went to the Academy beyond learning not to torch"

8:44 AM

"Everything else was all me baby, and those corporations are gone now. I think I'm a technicality here"

Venser chuckles at her levity. "That's true... I'm more just worried about you seeing what she could make me do. Plus, and this is a much more cerebral point, I don't want you to ever think someone else is closer to me. This 'Thing' is inside my head, but you are inside my soul." He seems to be picking himself off the floor with her help. "Ok then, what do we do?"

"what she says for now. THis is like hacking a computer or doing a research project. We need to see where the boundaries are, and what exactly she decides to do when it comes to enforcing her rules. We pick, we prod, we deal with what comes out of it, and we find a way to win. Maybe there is a way to spin this into something positive for everyone"

"I sure hope so, in the meantime I guess we ought to train the girl. Maybe it's even worth doing some training of my own, finally learn nullification to help with this." He sighs. "Do we want to return her to her family? They seemed just shitty at first, but this was straight up abusive."

"Not under any circumstances. Even with the danger gone, they're not going to understand the changes or what's different. They see she's a freak and she is always going to be. If she goes back, let it be as an adult, with her own life and places to go"

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"For sure, and it's not like we don't have the space." He gestures to the giant sanctum around them. "But now you're complicit in my kinda-sorta-not-really kidnapping too. At least until I can get the paperwork done." Venser smirks, but is actually thinking about the exact legal footwork he could do to take on Abigail as a ward, legitimately. He glances out of the large bay windows at the slowly darkening sky, holding Blossom. "It's getting late, I've got to see a man about a pendant. Will you be alright getting Abigail situated?" He asks, still not really wanting to leave her side.

"Yes. We're both coming with you, we need to see this out- but I'll get a room set up for her and I'll show her how to use the emergency gear, just in case"

Venser nods and takes once last look at Blossom before stepping into a shimmer of purple. He re-materialises back in the market square, hoping to catch the tinkerer he was told about earlier on his way home from the factory.

You’re able to find him. He has dealt with a. Customer just a few seconds ago and has some time now. He doesn’t look in a hurry to leave

Venser gives a nonchalant wave as he approaches, completely counter to his stature here. "Hi there, my name is Venser Reach. And boy, do I have an opportunity for you." He says, letting the pendant fall from his grip and swing from it's chain.

"Oh. governor reach? What kind did you have in mind?"

"I've heard of your reputation from some the locals, and was wondering..." He presents the pendant carefully. "It was my Mother's. The engraving on the back here has been lost to time, do you think you could restore it? I'll pay triple your usual rate and, in return, I'd appreciate if you keep any privileged information you gleam from whatever message you find between us. Assuming you demonstrate discretion and quality work, I may very well have more work for you in the future."

To: Venser
Hey man, I just came out of a deep void session and wanted to know what you were doing. No rush man but I think that we should ya know like do something the Zadack are telling me that I’m like to far into the void and need to go do something but what ever man, let me know what your doing.
Rey

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(Replying to https://discord.com/channels/345912178072879106/580825902712356865/937783885750734898 )

To: Venser
Yeah man the non-chill is apparently an effect of not communing with the void after going deep well that and their silly rules about not mellowing out in the void because it’s ‘dangerous’. Not gonna catch me having that happen. I’m on my way but it may be a minute till I can get there. Don’t leave Miriam without me. Catch you on the dark side man.
Rey

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(lil bump ❤️)

(I lost your original post with the messages. Thank you)

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6:32 AM

“Of course. The material looks like silver. This may not be too difficult. You’re welcome to stay and watch if you prefer Governor”

6:33 AM

He begins unrolling an oil cloth with tools and mixing a few chemicals into a small bucket. He seems to ponder choices of soft rags and brushes for several moments before choosing something he is happy with

"If it's not too much pressure, I'd be delighted to." A stool moves on its own, catching Venser as he sits and stares, enraptured by the intricate processes and sheer talent required of such work. "Fascinating..."

The silver locket is first dipped in a bath of gentle acid to wear away the corrosion and staining of years. The brushes are gentle afterwards and a spray of water washes the acid and removed grime away. Unfolding some goggles from his forehead that will let him zoom in, he begins gently using picks and a small Dremel headed tool to restore the inscription on the back of the locket, carving it just a hair deeper than it was before to restore the definition of the letters. 2506 UC1450: The Place Two Star Crossed Lovers Met In The Shadow of Collapse.

"Coordinates? Ha! You're a genius my friend!" Venser doesn't know whether to hug man, dance around like a muppet, or cry. "Haha! I must head there immediately! Thank you, truly. I'll will wire your payment in full right this instant." (He can name his price.) "Say... you don't happen to do more technical engineering work do you? I've got some plans that could used a skilled and consistent hand. I tend to be away a lot." He chuckles.

"Away? Somewhere warm maybe? And room for another? I want to go , but my wife..." he says, thinking.

(I was more suggesting they could stay here and work on stuff for me like the geo-thruster mod while I'm away adventuring, because I want to get that stuff out into the world, its just not Venser's bag) (edited)

(Oh that’s fine too. Wasn’t sure if you wanted from in your ship workshop or something so you didn’t have to always come back)

(We've got plenty of unused labs and rooms in the sanctum, or eventually on Reach, if we don't want to uproot this whole person's life. They can be my Q! I always want to come back to Mariam anyway, it's home now.)

(He's good either way, so however you want your tme forward to look ,he's willing to go)

Venser teleports away for a moment and arrives back with several different blueprints and research notes for the designs they found in Raz's workshop. They spend the better part of an hour discussing various ideas and approaches until Venser feels very comfortable offering him a job. Venser is a competent enough mechanic in his own right, but this man gets into territory he only understands purely theoretically. "We can start you out in one of the labs at my sanctum, just outside of town. There will be shuttle to take you to and from there whenever you wish, we will also get you and your wife a room picked out should you wish to stay. I'm afraid I have some business to take care of off world shortly, but I'll be back soon enough and I'm excited to see what you come up with!" With a handshake the contract is sealed, although Venser jumps slightly as this happens, reminding him all too much of the pact he made just hours earlier...

(3xp, 5000 credits, and I'm good for whatever!)

(Nice! Just a quick goal check:)

Visit Mariam and get a feel for the place.
Get a lead on finding Venser's father.
Investigate Shadows on Mariam.
Recover pendant engraving.

(edited)

(we are 4 for 4 on that one)

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(HOT. Alrighty then, level up coming your way shortly! Then me and Rey can check out the rift on Aliah?) (edited)

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(Yes! I know he's ready to go as well)

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Level Up 15 to 16
[3 SP from Level Up & 1 SP for TK from Psychic Training]
Focus: Pistolier
Old HP: 120
New HP: 121
New Skills: 'Remote Repair' technique taken for 1 SP
Current AB: +5
Current AC: 28 = 23 (Ironhide) + 2 (Dexterity) + 1 (Force Pavis) + 2 (Vambrace*)
[Banked 2 SP from Level Up & 1 SP for TK from Psychic Training]

(edited)

(looks good! Nice) (edited)

Reynaldo’s Nightwatch appears in system. “Hey Venser, I made it man, where are we off to? Like I hear there might be a thing off in Chloe.”

Venser hails back from the Wildstar as coasts past the bones of newly rediscovered Reach Station. "Ah, excellent! Ya know one of these days we will actually do the mission we set out to do first time..." He laughs. "I believe ol' Proccy P is joining us as well, but he's coming from Gudrun, so likely he will meet us there."

(I’ll get a group mission thread together with him when we are done with rp )

"So man, what did you mean you had to like, interest a shadow? Like what does that even mean man?"

"The shadow calls itself a 'muse'? Like a kind of metaspace patron, it can grant power in exchange for some control. Durukti is her name, she was interested in Abigail's potential, manipulating her into becoming a vessel. I instead offered myself so she would be free, perhaps arrogantly assuming I would have a better chance at resisting her influence. I may live to regret that... Please Rey, don't repeat to anyone, I trust you, but I'm even worried about how the Academy will view this if they get wind of it..."

“No worries dude my lips are void, I’m glad you could help the girl out. Like better you than me on this one but, any ideas on how we can get you like clear of the thing?”

"Well I was kinda hoping you could help with that, nullification could at least provide a band-aid, a panic button if things were ever to get out of hand. Plus, not gonna lie, I could do with being as chilled as you sometimes..." Venser chuckles nervously.

Rey looks at Venser, "You know we could like go check with the zadak, they are pretty smart on the whole thing about the void. we could even like, talk to the old chief about it. He has been like around man, Like he has been dead for years but they have this thing that lets us talk to him it's like really cool man. I dont know it might work through. Well after we deal with this Chloe issue." (edited)

"That would be wonderful, Rey. I'd like to see how both they and the Jademane are getting on. I feel partially responsible for both of them. Although I still don't like that thing they call us - 'Chooser of the Slain', they said it's a term of endearment, but every time I hear it my heart just bleeds for them..."

(Archiving for now)

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