Iron Stars - merle

level 1>2 use magic 0>1 2sp  know magic -1>0 1 sp  Level 2 foci pick tinker fix  -1 to 1 hp roll of 4 6>7  level 1 spell slots 3>4

level 2>3 use magic 1>2 3sp known spells level 1 2>3 New level 1 spell Truth of Flesh and Bone.  Level two spell slots 0>2  Level 2 spells known 0>2 New spells level 2: Feral Guise, Sanctity of Self. hp 7>9

Bart and Merle continue on, sequestered with the Fraternity cultists to a site a few kilometers south of the voided-out city, near the coast. A series of caves have been hollowed out, repaired, and furnished into a warren like fortress. A miniature stability field, smaller than the main resonators, but larger than the one on the truck protects a kilometer of land around the caves. Cultists begin shedding their protective gear as they get inside the bubble, plugging the devices into a guarded shack where some sort of battery is keeping them functional.

Merle follows their example storing the belt to charge looking them over before letting down Fox bart. "I suppose you want to be released to your regular form? I still say this one is a bit nicer, but to each their own." He shrugged and let go of the change binding him to the form. "I'll leave the other one on you until you tell me to lift it. I guess we should go find Gamma before he thinks we're tampering with things?"

As the fox finishes transforming back into Thrace, he shakes, visibly uncomfortable. "Let's not make a habit of that, shall we? Still, I appreciate the quick thinking. Finding Gamma seems to be a sound plan."

Merle nods and heads out looking around the caves for brother Gamma.

Brother Gamma is speaking with the others carting the “soul stealing” equipment and the group of them head off to an antechamber fashioned with a door, in the side of the largest part of the cavern. Armed guards post nearby , keeping an eye on those coming in

Merle walks up to one of the guards and raises a hand. "Excuse me brother, I'd hoped to talk with brother Gamma and learn more of our purpose here, but I didn't want to make a mistake in my ignorance and intrude on a holy site I haven't earned the right to enter yet, can you please tell me where I can go to be of help until he has time for me?"

“An expedition is going back out in the morning. The new converts and some veterans will be setting up a new location closer to Dremlas to survey the city from. You’re free to bunk in the last cave on the right with the other converts

"Does the fraternity get many converts? What other groups are out there?" (edited)

Thrace stays quiet, choosing to observe and draw as little attention to himself as he can. He keeps an eye out for anything that might be useful. (edited)

"We get enough. You'll find out once you begin your field work, I have duties to get to"

Merle bowed to the guard brother. "I understand brother, thank 6iu for indulging the questions of a new convert. Come along Thrace, let us meet the other new converts and get some sleep." Merle went to head to the bunks the guard told him about, curious about the sleeping arrangements of the cave.

As they walk to the bunks, the esoteric senses that Thrace has spent his time since the Scream developing begin to engage. His mind taps into the shared psychic context of the community, imbuing him with innate knowledge of their customs, their culture, their social being. Having never been able to do this, what with the Alliance being cut off from foreign cultures for the past few years, he is surprised at how the knowledge he just gathered feels like it has been there for years. I've got so much more to learn about how this field works. Putting the thought aside, Thrace turns to Merle when they get a moment alone on their walk. "So, looks like it's just the two of us. We might not get much time alone, and we might even get split up, so we should make some form of plan while we can."

Merle stops for a second, looking around him then speaking in a hushed voice. "My plan is the same as it was I think. I will adapt to this place to the outside, find out what they know, what others know, and apply it to find out more. Gamma displayed a possibly concerning lack of care for his converts. I want to know why or if it was ro intimidate us. He was oddly merciful for someone who hopes to take mist null dampeners offline. Why reveal themselves to us then let us escape. I want these and more questions answered. We might not have much time. If the others made it back conflict is likely inevitable. I know you must be curious too. I want to know who they recruit from. Under what circumstances. What kinds of labs they have. My plan is to be trusted enough to get the answers I seek. I have yet to find out what that entails, but I won't be daunted by moral ambiguities, unless they're disadvatageous for other reasons. What is your plan?" Merle looked at Thrace curiously.

Thrace nods. "I've ways of infiltration available to me that few are aware even exist anymore. I plan to learn all I can, take out a few key members and do what damage opportunity may provide. These people threaten Dremlas, and I would see their destruction before they can harm our own. Perhaps we should take two different routes to the same destination. You ingratiate yourself with Gamma and his lot, and learn what you can through them, while I act discreetly and in the shadows. We meet occasionally to compare notes if we can, and if we learn something that Dremlas needs to know then we conspire to have one of us escape. How does that sound, dear fellow?" (edited)

"Hmm it sounds alright. I'd just ask that you not sabotage them for a while. I want to learn what I can without the shadow being cast over me of my comrade being a saboteur if possible. If you can promise me that, and that we'll never personally come to odds. I won't reveal your plot should you decide you still want to do it. It might seem odd, but I think these people aren't as much of a thread as everyone seems to think, though with that kind of action they could be made into one. I think it would be best they believe Dremlas to be beaten back and go about their normal activities as long as possible, rather than feeling they must destroy the town. Though they have goals counter to them and possibly us. They don't seem as aggressive as you would think someone who worshiped a natural disaster would be. When or if the time comes I think having you escape assuming we both live would be better. I think you would be more believed and have a greater desire to return. Though as I said, I still think we don't know enough to accurately judge their actions, and taking them at face value could be detrimental."

"In the spirit of cooperation I will restrict myself to information gathering, but if I determine that they are a threat to Dremlas I will remove their capability to threaten the Alliance as best I can. I promise that we will have a discussion before anything like that happens." (edited)

"Good, I have some ideas if it does come to that, but I'm nowhere near executing any of them. I don't want to tell you too much since I couldn't do it if I wanted to at the moment and it would just endanger both of us. Worst case don't forget to get a charged belt if you have to leave. The adaptation I gave you should make it easier to traverse the surface, but we can't count on it saving us from a storm, and if we get separated who knows if they'll try to kill the other anyway. For now though we should try and befriend them and whatever factions they introduce us to, it can only serve both us and the alliance."

"Yes, for now. Let's retire and see what they have in store for us later." Thrace stops talking as they walk past a small group of strangers, and heads onwards to the cave.

Merle follows him nodding taking stock of the other converts, and conditions around them.

Conditions here are decent despite being in caves. There's been at least some attempt made at sanitation, and the furnishings were either well-made locally, or taken from other areas. The converts are likewise being fed and watered. Some seem a bit weak, but none look sick, or like they have unattended health issues allowed to run wild.

Merle smiles and gets in line to be fed curious about what they eat. He looks around for the largest group of converts.

(Bart if we want to split off we can any time, since it sounds like your goals might be diverging)

(yeah we can split now)

The group is subsisting off ration packs, augmented with food stuffs grown outside the caves on the planet's surface. Most of the starch and roughage is locally grown.

Merle leaves the line and looks for any converts having a conversation he can insert himself into.

(what kind of conversation would you try to insert yourself into?)

(just whatever type has the most people in it, if there's a choice of people that seem talkative and excitable if possible? He's more looking for people who are excited or homesick enough to give information about the outside world or potential convert duty stuff.)

(they'd talk about convert duty probably)

(That's fine) Merle approached some of the other converts. "So I heard duties started for me tomorrow, any of you know what I'll have to do?"

"Probably service in the morning, then field work, or scouting. Task masters will assign you your jobs for the day when we do roll call in the morning. You'll get fed, and then its off to work'

"Ah I'm curious to see what services are like. So what do you all do for fun?"

"Fun? No time for that around here "

"What? Aren't we sort of stuck here, how can you literally have no time for fun? Wouldn't everyone go stir crazy in the caves?" Merle shrugged. "Fun in duty or whatever then?"

"There's dice and cards if you know where to look. You'll be too tired for much of anything after a few days of working, I can promise you that"

"Ha, I'm never too tired for dice and cards, but I usually win so.. Well anyway where do you look? Not that I'll work any less hard at whatever task I'm assigned. I intend to prove myself to Brother Gamma."

(where do they look for what?)

(for card and dice games.)

"The bunk spaces usually. The task masters tend to overlook things in there, since its out of the way"

"Is it something frowned upon or not allowed?" Merle chuckled. "I'm sure I'll be suckered into a few games either way, but I'd like to know how much flak I'll have to take for it."

"I think you can infer the meaning. Just do it where its safe to do it, and nothing will happen"

"Right, well can you tell me where my bunk is? I should probably get done sleep anyway?"

“Chamber 3. Youll find it. Get some rest you’ve had a long day”

"Thanks, and thank you for indulging my questions. I look forward to working together. Is it rude to ask how names work here? I'm Merle or was."

“Kard. Nice to meet you Merle”

"Well met Kard, see you tomorrow." Merle bowed slightly, before departing to the bunks. (something i just thought about, would saving Bart count as saving someone's life?)

(Yeah i think so)

(cool thanks, I'll check off the goal, I think that's xp but not a level up. Sorry for stretching out the night a bit, just trying to play up the more scientific approach, like investigating the new situation and stuff.)

(All good) In the morning you are awoken to three different crews preparing to head out. Farming, recon, and excavation of deeper cave networks are all on the agenda today after morning discussion or service

Merle tries to get cleaned up before he heads to service wondering which crew he'll be put on, or if he'll see Gamma and Kard again there. (I guess I never asked and not sure if you want to get into it, but do they have water and stuff here, I assumed some sort since they cooked and had food and things? Was trying to look into that, but wanted to say ooc since I wasn't sure if it was obvious enough.)

(I’ll post the cave map

02:46

Gamma and his chosen inhabit the sub level behind the chapel and guards, as well as passive security and a few drones keep the curious from getting too close. The armory is just south of that, where bed chambers and training areas take up the rest of the space. The rivers flow outside- to farming areas

(Sorry, which parts are the ones I'm allowed in)

(everything on this map)

1

15:25

(just not past the stairs on the western side, as that goes to the not pictured next level down)

(Just didn't know which parts were which, sorry.)

17:26

Slightly disappointed not to see Brother Gamma at service, Merle tries to listen in on the various discussions going on, and see if he can pick up anything while looking for Kard.

Kard is in the back row smoking a cigar and passing some notes around with a few members of the cohort

Merle approaches him looking a bit sheepish. "Hey Kard, I was hoping you could help me since this is my first discussion. I didn't want to say or ask anything that was frowned upon. I have a healthy curiosity, and just wanted to use that to help the Fraternity not annoy the other brothers."

"okay? how can i help you then?"

"Well, what are we supposed to do here, and can you tell me which duty you think ill receive? I don't know how suited I'd be for any of them. I guess what I'm asking is which do you think would help me prove most useful?" (edited)

(I'm super lost as far as what your aims are here, what kind of work is going to get you the closest to what you want to accomplish?)

(Just I feel like I'm equally suited for any of them so was trying to see if any one was more important than the others. I sort of have an idea of how I could help with any of them, though whether that'll work is another thing lol.)

16:09

(sorry for the confusion neko)

(well lets get your idea out there)

"So how many of you have any kind of magic? I could figure a way I could use it in each of the duties, but I want to do the most good. As far as recon, I don't have to breath, eat or drink and I can change into an animal as small as a cat. Farming I could be a beast of burden, but I'm not very strong. Excavation, possibly some kind of animal, and I'm decent with machines? Are you to the one to talk to about this or am I sort of missing the point of discussion?"

"The discussions here are for scholarly ideas, learning, sharing skill,s that sort of thing. It's about self reliance and bonds of brotherhood free of cult hierarchy"

18:11

"Here, cult officers and footsoldiers gather with no regard to rank. Just as men, interested in self reliance and survival"

"What do you teach?"

"Well, I'm a pretty good woodworker myself, a few others are good with their hands as well, either as a mason or miner"

19:14

"We have a few thinkers amid the group too, the real heart and soul"

"I think I'll have enough chance to learn mining first hand, what kind of things do you make out of wood?"

All sort of small sculpts, and some larger woodworking projects liek joists for homes

"Hmm well good a place as any to start in my free time right? Probably be learning mining snd masonry other times, have you ever sculpted or whittled a fox? Do you think I could do it with one arm?" Merle looked at Kard hopefully.

"I think so, Just take your time, and we can use a vice to hold the blocks"

15:51

"Who knows, you might be even better at it"

"We'll see, well, I'm yours to teach when you have the time."

"One arm on ya, you thought about getting a replacement for that?"

16:23

"If that's personal I'm sorry"

"Yeah a bit, just never got time, or learned the magic yet. I sort of wanted a cybernetic arm. Maybe even build and install it myself."

"You'd be able to. Getting paid in materials and resources since credits dont do much good out here'

Merle's eyes got wide. "You have that kind of materials? I thought it'd be more scarce, though with belt manufacturing you mist have some kind of tools and materials. Yes though, I would like that a lot, cybernetics are one of my passions, along with various sciences. I saw that you mainly farm, can I ask why you don't hunt? I wouldn't mind helping to make better equipment for people either, I've always been a bit of a tinkerer."

"We hunt a bit, but most of the woods outside the stabilization field is dangerous"

"You train people a bit too right? I have a pistol, but I don't really know how to use it besides that's the zappy end, and I'm even worse with hand to hand combat, for probably obvious reasons."

"We can give you a hand with those things. You will learn, and we will teach you"

"Well, I am always willing to learn, teach and work. When someone thinks they're is nothing to learn, they're usually not trying enough. You know it's different then I expected. Something I wanted to ask as well. We really only got the basics, what are the beliefs of the Fraternity, as specific as you can tell me, please, though I understand if I need to earn hearing those teachings as well."

"You'd better get those right from the Pastor. They'll be better at teaching you"

"You mean brother Gamma isn't the pastor? You have a pastor?" Merle laughed. "Thank you Kard, you've taught me something already, in still interested in learning skills, and woodworking, but could you point me to them please?"

"Gamma very rarely gives speeches or service unless we're on the verge of something important"

21:06

(point you to who?)

(The pastor?)

(Okay, you mentioned skills and then a vague "them" so i got lost)

21:11

The pastor has a red ribbon around his waist, and is finishing reading from a book to one of the groups of assembled brothers. He shakes their hands warmly and begins moving on, toward the other end of the room

(Sorry just didn't want them to feel like he was wasting their time or disingenuous about learning.) (edited)

21:13

(Also sorry for how snippy that comment felt. I wasn't sure if he was doing the I'm secretly the pastor thing lol) (edited)

21:17

Merle walked over to the man with the ribbon. "Hello, I was told that you were the pastor snd could help teach me about the fraternity's beliefs, I didn't even know we had a pastor or holy book until moments ago, I'd like tk avoid any faux paus from ignorance or laziness as much as I could, my name is Merle, im a recent convert, yesterday in fact. It's a pleasure to meet you pastor."

"And to you Initiate Merle. You've come to the side of right, and we welcome you

"Thank you it's nice to be welcomed."

"So what can I help you with? Questions about what we beleive?"

"Yes please, though I might have more to ask depending on your answers. I was curious about our origins, and how we interact with everyone else as well. You know how we get converts and where from, I figured you might have some answers, and I'm eager to learn." Merle looked at the pastor with big eyes.

'The backstory of the people who come here isn't mine to give out. That is their own business , but I will tell you that you're some of the first new converts we have had in years. "

"Oh really, perhaps we'll have to try and change that. I understand, what can you tell me about the Fraternity then."

“You heard bröther gamma speaking at the ruins of your resonator. We believe that there is a way to ascend into another form through embracing the null breaches. The Scream turned over the careful order we had made on this world. It is our destiny to understand what we did wrong and adapt to this new way of life we have been provided”

"How will we achieve this, I must admit I'm curious as a recent convert, scientist and mage, the power of the null storms is mighty, and living without the fear of it seems like something wonderful."

"The nature of the plan is for the higher orders. You can prepare youeself for induction in those sacred mysteries by devoting yourself to the cult and your labors"

Merle frowned at the pastor. "What can you tell me then? I mean I already planned to throw myself into my duties, whatever they end up being. Everyone has been personable if a bit non specific, but I guess that's part of the allure?"

"You need to remember where you're coming from. Everyone here watched you turn coat on your companions, and this happened less than a day ago. Brother Gamma does not trust either of you, not yet. Neither do I. We aren't going to be giving away deep brotherhood secrets to people we just watched turn their backs on their country. Your creditability is duplicitous right now. Kard and the others have given you the best advice. It just isn't the advice you wanted to hear"

"I know, I promise you I won't let it temper my devotion just my expectations. I'll do my best for the fraternity. Hopefully you can understand why I'm curious though, I'll just channel it into my work you know finding the best way to farm, scout or dig. Sorry if I came off as dogmatic or disingenuous."

"Not knowing the answers, or not getting them quickly is a challenging experience. Being in a new place does not make it easier. I understand your reasons for asking"

"Good, I'm glad I'm not making an ass of myself. I truly appreciate it. I vouch for my own actions. Though I remain optimistic my commerade will embrace the right as I have. My curious nature makes me paraniod, but I don't like to malign anyone."

"Take our suspicion as that of having new people in our midst. A family doesn't air out their laundry when company has come over. Not until you're comfortable with them at least"

"Well, I hope to rise to the challenge. Beisedes just being devoted, is there anything I can do? Though I realize that might fall into something that comes in higher orders. I mean is any of the duties more distinguished than the other? I'd appreciate your counsel, but I'd think scouting would show I would leave and come back, but I'm not sure if I get a choice in my duties, and it's not an area I'm particularly gifted in, though I have a few tricks."

"There are no duties higher or more respected than the others. Respect comes from doing what you are assigned well, though with one arm, anything physical may distinguish you before the others"

"Yes, also Kard said you all might help me with that, let me build myself a new arm? Among learning other skills. The chance to prove myself is what I want. Well besides mysteries, are there other skills you teach? Maybe public speaking or leadership? You are a pastor, or would you mind telling me more about yourself, please?" (edited)

"You'd be able to build a new arm, and I'd be happy to assist you with the work. It's going to be difficult to do with just one person, and one arm"

"Of course, thank you, I've always been excited about cyberware, and it would be nice to have two arms again."

Meet me again here tonight. I will exempt you from work duties tomorrow, and we will get you fitted with one

"Alright, one day off of work duty shouldn't be too bad, but I guess that means I should pick something today that doesn't take me too far, just incase right?"

"I would recommend that yes"

"Hmm maybe farming then? I haven't farmed in a while. Though I'm not sure how that all works with duties."

(its come up a bunch of times in the thread)

20:53

(we can skip to that then fi you're finally settled on farming)

(I meant more swapping them this time sorry. Yeah that works. I didn't want to rush through anything but it seems like the pastor and kard were the main people of interest. I'm probably thinking of that kind of stuff too formally and it's help out where you can.)

(yeah was mostly just feeling out a good mission to get started with them, but farming we can do)

That afternoon yo're given a rake and assigned to farming duties on the surface, tending a potato patch near the main doors of the cave system.

20:40

Six others are assigned to do it with you, each of them not wearing the personal resonator tech as you're within the stability field of the base

Merle rakes the dirt a bit before looking around at the others. "So what are we supposed to do? Just make sure they don't get too watered or something?"

Something cracks in the woods nearby, like a sharp break of a stick, or tumble of pine boughs

Merle looked to the woods gripping his rake. "So do things try to come onto the farm often. If you're hiding in the bushes cone out of there."

"Animals do come out of the woods, they don't care if we're here or not"

18:24

Several small rabbit like creatures poke their heads out from the brush, each of them looking ravenously hungry

Merle looks at the creatures to see if they're any different than regular rabbits. "You don't set up traps or snares? Or maybe some of you are decent with pistols?" (Walt did they take my laser pistol?)

(they did not)

22:07

(if you were going to cause trouble you might have wounded or killed a couple people but by their reasoning you werent walking out of there)

"Would you want to try and catch some of them? I know we don't usually hunt, could be killing two birds, though me shooting at them will likely just scare them off. Last chance, also don't be alarmed please, im going to draw my weapon and try if that's alright? I might make something to help catch them later, bit it'll probably be easier after I get another arm."

(survive/wis for hunting)

(4)

With one hand it’s hard to make any shots that hit a target or get a pitfall together in time. The shots do scare the pests@away for at least your shift, however

Merle holsterd his laser pistol then works the rest of his shift. Approaching the others at the end of it. "Do you all know where I could get things to build a fence or traps? Seems like we should do something about those pests."

"you'd have to talk to the quartermaster for the supplies to make a trap. Not much to go around, its why we havent been able to fence anything"

"Well worst case I could fashion something, but either way I'd need tools at least. Kard said we were allowed to do wood working. Maybe I'll come back after my meeting with the pastor. Do you know who I'd have to talk to about securing the field? I wouldn't want anyone to fall into one of the traps I made, it might be in a few days though."

05:22

Merle looked around the field to see how big a job it would be to make a perimeter around the field.

It would take a full day's work detail between two shifts, but your idea makes sense and you get the idea that the doting pastor would probably be convinced if you presented your case to him

Merle nodded to himself, and went back to working the field. "I think it'll work but I will need everyone's help, are you all alright of i ask the pastor, come back to help when I can lend two hands. I'll try and convince them that everyone who helps should get the first bit of rabbit or whatever we catch. Though if you kniw if any other critters come down it'd help a lot, don't want to build a fence, and traps to keep out rabbits and then a lope just jumps over."

They’ll let you speak with whoever for as long as you need since it’s in the pursuit of your assigned duties

(Well I was more trying to make friends with the people doing farming and get them on board, and didn't want to just be like yeah I'll delegate and make you all do the work as the new guy without them agreeing seeing as Merle has one arm still lol.)

(right, they;ll have more to say/talk about when they know if they're working with yoiu to make fences or not)

1

Merle nods and gives them a wave heading back inside. "I'll go find the pastor and try to be back as quickly as I can one way or the other, thanks for hearing out my plan, does any of you know where the pastor would be now?"

"There's not that much cave, you'll find him before long"

Merle looked around for the pastor starting with where they'd met for services taking this chance to familiarize himself with the cave a bit as he went.

The pastor had just finished a meeting with the inner circle when you find him packing up his books and notes

Merle approached the pastor. "Are you heading somewhere Pastor? I was hoping to ask for your help setting up some fences and traps around the fatms keep out the pests and get some meat too. I thought since the crew would have to work all day we could let them have anything caught first?"

"My help? what kind of help can I give you with that kind of work?"

"I was told that I'd need to ask you for the materials and to check with you. I figured I'd come and see if you thought I should start that before or wait until after we'd worked on the arm since it might be a full day undertaking at least."

"Fences and some traps eh? Well, i suppose we could spare some resources to do it. I can authorize a small amount to get started. If the results are good, and its working, we can do the rest"

"Is there a part of the fields you'd like us to start with? It's only my first day tending them so I figured I should ask."

"wherever the pests are the worst i suppose. '

"Alright I'll try to make an assessment work with what you give us, see what kind of trap works best. Should I go get some people to help cart the supplies? I'm not the best at heavy lifting."

"They'll be brought up to you,b ut here" he scrawls something on a paper quickly, and stamps it with the inked ring on his thumb. "Bring this to the work overseer so he knows you actually came to talk to me and ive approved it, and that you werent just goofing off in the caves somewhere. I'm a firm believer in both our cause, and the concept of PYA"

Merle chuckles, but takes the paper. "Thank you pastor. I wouldn't want anyone to think I was goofing off. I want to make myself familiar with the caves at least enough not to get lost eventually, but I figure I can do that some during my recovery. No time wasted and all. Thank you for being so agreeable."

"More food at the table means we all grow stronger, now get on, get those fences made"

16:39

(3xp, 5000 credits)

(If that leveled me up should I do it now before the farm stuff or after?)

(we can do it now)

(cool let me do that and post the summary then then I'll get him going out to keep peter rabbit out of the potato patch.)

(lvl 3>4 1sp banked know -1>0 program -1>0 1st level spell slots 5>6 second level spell slots 2>3 Changes 3>4 hp 6>12)

18:18

Merle smiled looking down at the paper with the seal on it and waved to the pastor hurrying back to the fields to tell the others. As he drew near he waved the paper over his head. "He liked the idea, said I should tell the work overseer, we'll only get enough for a small patch to start. So I figured I'd ask you all what the best crops and heaviest rabbit area is. We could always dig some see which kind of trap works better, or I don't know if you'd want to try catching them alive and breeding them. Having our own steady source of food might be nice too."

(how would you play this out, rather than asking them)

18:46

(they'll go along with your plans)

Merle looked around the fields to see if there was any difference between them.

The fields to the right have fewer crops in them, and most that are still there have been nibbled on relentlessly by rodents and other pests

"Alright, after surveying our fields, I have my idea, we trap the right fields and secure the others. Personally i think we should put in the extra effort and make as many traos as we can pit trap the remaining fields just in case use some of the remaining chewed crops as bait. I know that you all are the ones doing the brunt if the work though so I ask for your help and faith in our plan. please if you have any better ideas or recommendations please say them."

(Lead/cha)

(8)

You’re able to complete the work within the day. Traps are made. Pits are dug and fences go up with the limited materials you have on hand. All that remains is to wait to see what happens and how successful you might have been

"Good job everyone, I think the fields have never been more secure. I hope everything goes well I'll be back after I get my arm but for now I have to meet the pastor again and tell him about our good work!" Merle headed back in to go find the Pastor and tell him how the day in the fields had gone.

As a reward, he agrees to help you artiface an arm for yourself this evening, as in, right now

"Really hsve you made many cybernetic prosthetics? If I'm honest I was interested in them even before I lost my arm. Back when I was learning to be a doctor. Anyway what is your setup like here? I ferl like I'm getting ahead oh myself, and I dont want to bore or insult you."

"Not many in recent years, but I have before, and it will be good enough work for you to continue experimenting on your own if you think you're more qualified. Easier to start with something, I suppose"

"Is there much research work to be done. I know I still have a lot to learn when it comes to mundane or magical research, but it's a passion of mine yes. I think the first thing I'd do is add that shocking mesh to the arm. Somewhat of a security measure, and you'd never be unarmed." Merle chuckles a little. "Enough jokes though I appreciate your help and hope I'll return your effort in spades to the fraternity. I'm going to ask you a personal question, please feel free not to answer if it's too much, but who were you before the storms pastor if I can ask? Your history seems truly amazing."

“I was a spiritual man before the scream , a pastor of another sort. The scream came and so did the null breach that swallowed up my congregation.

"You survived though, interesting. Well we'd better get to work. The sooner I have an arm the sooner I can continue my work for the Fraternity and will be able to hear your full sermon. I'm still curious about that, and about the state of some of the other cities. I have so many questions, but I feel like some of them might just be born of naivety or ignorance, so I'll withhold them for now."

He nods and you’re taken to a workshop where your arm is cleaned and clamped down to the table. “I’m going to take some measurements of your existing arm, and then since we have your stump clamped down here im@going to clean it further and begin the first stages of getting the bone work done”

"Alright, thank you again, is there anything you need me to do Pastor?"

“You’ve done enough for one day, but you’ve shown promise and if you’re willing I’d like you to be my Acolyte. I’ve never taken one but the movement is growing and I find your personality calming”

"I think I would like that. Thank you for trusting me. It seems like a good place to learn more about the Fraternity and our beliefs and how I can help to further them."

“For tonight, get some rest and tomorrow we will meet. I will show you your new duties

Merle nods "Is it okay if I check the perimeter still? I don't want to neglect my old duties."

He nods. "Just take care of yourself. I'd rather not lose an acolyte before his first day"

Merle nods looking down at the progress on his arm. (Sorry i wasn't sure about that sure I figured I'd do a partial pafi than just ask. The only real cyberware any of my characters had was corn and the tattoos.) (edited)

(not really a long ptocess for him to fit this, )

(Okay, so would that work for the getting an arm goal then?) Merle flexed his new arm using it to give a salute to the pastor. "Thank you again for this, I'm going to head out to the fields then straight to bed, I promise. I'm excited for tomorrow anyway."

(yes it does count)

1

Merle waved to the pastor and headed back out to the farms to see how the perimeter was holding up and if any of it needed to be reset.

With less than a day since construction the work is doing fine. The traps haven’t yielded anything yet but the area probably still stinks like human

Merle heads back in to the bunks still moving his arm around trying to give out random high fives to passers by with mild success, and heads to sleep.

(did you havfe anything in the morning before i throw you into the pastor's stuff?)

(I don't think so. Maybe trying to catch a card game or something. Possibly checking the perimeter again?)

This morning one of the box traps near the entry of the cave wiggles gently, signaling something is beneath

Merle tries to find the others bringing his laser pistol and telling them to get a rope.

They are able to get a rope for you after a few moments of waiting

"Alright everyone be ready it's probably a rabbit, but even if it is we don't want it escaping." Merle takes hold of the box and gets ready to lift it up so the others can grab it.

The box lifts and you see several flashes of color, and a gentle animal squeak as one of the guards pulls the rabbit up by the scruff of its neck

15:06

it is alive, but struggling in his grip

"Wait a moment don't kill it help me bring it to the kitchen, possibly the lab, I'm curious about how these animals tick, how they've changed to survive out here. I promised you all a rabbit dinner though so I wouldn't want to do anything to foul the meat so I'll need a cook to consult on the dissection, does that sound alright with you all?"

(Where did you want it to go then. Kitchen and lab have very different outcomes here)

(probably the lab then. Gotta see how these multicolored rabbits tick.)

The lab takes your captured pet and throws it in a cage for now. They plan to cut it to pieces later trying to understand it and the Fraternity researchers seem almost delighted at the prospect

"Alright, but I want to be in on the dissection. I have two hands now, so should be up for it. I'll bring you the first of any new animal I find, if you'll agree to that."

(Theyd probably get right into it. Not sure what kind of info you wanted exactly )

(just to be in on dissections so then he'd stick around if possible since it's his goal so he can better replicate how the fauna and stuff has adapted or their various potentially desirable traits. It was a thing I was hoping to do to flavor rectifier and science stuff if possible. Full disclosure it is for a goal as well for dissecting aliens and alien fauna.) (edited)

)know int for me good buddy)

(7)

The creature is investigated. It eats nuts and berries, along with other forage. It is small and the fur goes deep into the sub skin layer. It seems like it has a short life span. It is small and already greying from the wild magic fields outside the temperate zone but enlarged reproduction organs show it has broods of tens at once

02:37

Focusing on many lives rather than long ones

(1/5 fauna?) "Interesting so it would appear at least the locally foraged food would be non toxic. I wonder if it is so cold or what causes the deep existence of fur, its as if perlonged expose prematurely aged the creature. I wonder if that would effect the taste. At least there should be many around, though we might have to vary methods of trapping and deterral. Though perhaps it would be a good domestic food and pet animal. Good work, and thank you for letting me sit in."

(1/5 fauna)

14:52

With some new thoughts on how to improve the food situation, you head out to meet the pastor and begin your first day as his acolyte

Merle heads into the church room winding his new arm flexing the hand trying to get used to the operation and weight of it looking around for his new mentor.

The pastor is preparing for his sermon today, and seems to be making some last minute notes from a large leather bound book. There are many diagrams inside that look almost like a mix of math problems and alchemical formulas

Merle coughs to announce himself fighting the urge to look over the pastor's shoulder into the book but making note of it.

"Ah hello my friend, how are you?"

"I'm good pastor, the work with the rabbit went well, I think it's a good omen for the start of our work together. How are you?"

"Doing well. It is a fine day, full of opportunities to stoke the hearts of the believers"

"I hope so, so where should we begin. Also did you want me to just call you pastor, or did you have another title you preferred?"

"Pastor is my title, and its what you'd be calling me regardless of our association. Please continue doing so. i've prepared some writings today from the work of Grandmaster Gamma's teachings. We'll be going down to the mines and speaking with the brothers and sisters there, bringing them the good word"

"Is there anything I should review? I haven't really had a chance to read the holy books, I don't know if I've proved worthy of it yet. It sounds like important work though."

"Today will be about watching, but I do have something for you. This key will give you limited access to my study. You'll have your pick of the non-restricted books to review whenever you need to. "

Merle looked at the key with the deserved reverence and nodding. "Learning and watching I think I can do that. Would you mind if I spent some of my free time there? I imagine there are a lot of books to read."

'I was hoping you would. My collection is yours to ponder, jsut try to be careful with the books. We don't have an easy way of getting more"

"Hmm perhaps it would be worth transcribing some of them if we could? Also perhaps I should withold judgement until after I read, but I think maybe having enough holy books everyone could read or have their own might be nice and help with morale and conversion. I will of course respect your decisions on the matter though, and take the utmost care with your books. Who knows maybe I could even bring some back if I ever venture out."

(are you talking about making copies of them?)

(possibly since he implied they were fragile.)

(well transcribe means to me right now either put it in another language or copy it. I can't respond to both things at once)

(yes copy it sorry that's what I meant since he said to take care with them and no new ones implying scarcity. I didn't mean to be cryptic, sorry.)

21:43

(I assume they were all in common though not having read any yet lol.)

21:43

(also sorry if I'm slower going to watch dog so I will be on phone.)

(They are in common yes, i just didnt know the direction you wanted to go)

22:58

"More copies would be a good thing, and I think this might be the perfect way for you to learn what our teachings actually are. I expect you'll spend a few hours every night working on them when we aren't in the field"

Merle nodded emphatically. "Thank you pastor for trusting me with this. If you could give me a suggested reading order, and any notes you have on them that would be helpful too. Just have to get some supplies for transcribing, but I'll leave that for later. Just I'm excited to see you're as interested in preserving knowledge as I am. I'm ready to shadow you on our trip into the mines."

The trip is about half a day, and a stability belt is handed out to each of you to keep the wild zones and null breaches away from you. He also dos a heavy waterproof traveling cloak and a walking stick. A pistol is strapped to his hip, just in case

Merle trades his jacket for a water proof cloak as well, and stands by ready to head out. (taking off jacket(secure clothing), would he have been able to recharge his pistol battery?)

(Yes)

03:23

“Ah I see you’re armed too. We shouldn’t need it but you never know what’s on the countryside”

"I also have a bit of magic, would you be opposed to me helping you adapt to our surroundings a bit? You also wouldn't need to eat drink or breathe. It has the added side effect of letting me know that you're alright as long as I feel part of my magic with you. I wouldn't do it without your consent of course. I thought perhaps it could help with our journey."

3

"I'd rather not. You're a new soul, and there's a measure of trust between us but I'm important to the Fraternity. I can't trust you with my being lioke that, not yet"

"Of course just an offer. Well we'll watch out for each other as best we can, hopefully I won't need to any magic healing or otherwise. After you pastor." Merle let the pastor go first since he knew the way, but keept an eye out for anything that might be hostile, or interesting. (edited)

(d10, sorry this didnt light)

(7)

A blighted plains land is ahead with short grass and a handful of lone trees. A road through the grass worn down by the passage of boots over a long period of time is a winding route through the plains, bringing you through an otherwise vast desert of muted green and brown.

20:16

The birds chirp despite the rain and clinging mist, though keep to the boughs of the trees

20:16

A small signpost and shack is ahead and seems to be what your circuitous route is leading towards though it’s not your destination

"So what do we pas on the way pastor? Is there anything I should be in the lookout for?"

"Termies, mostly, but the larger wildlife is occasionally hostile"

"What are termies? Giant termites or something?"

“People exposed to the breach long term with no stabilization field. Kills them eventually but they’re violent and destructive as the stuff drives them crazy”

"The whole community or is it more patches of them everywhere? That's too bad, maybe it's a common enemy though." Merle starts to think a bit.

“Tribes I think is almost a better word, or lone crazies. It all depends.”

"I wonder if they could be infiltrated or influenced. Well for now I hope we don't rub into any."

He shrugs at the thought. "Not sure, Death wish for anyone whos tried im sure, unless you're one of them already"

"Well I wouldn't be doing it personally probably. Might be better to spy on them as an animal then. Well for now I'll delight in being an acolyte."

He says nothing, unsure if you're being serious (d10)

20:51

(next area, then we're therE)

(9)

The path ahead is through a tunnel- a train used it once and the tracks have been left behind, but now it is left for foot traffic- and the tunnel is not here.

14:46

It is dark inside, and the pastor draws his weapons, just in case

Merle draws his pistol as well hoping that he doesn't have to use it.

(notice/wis)

(8)

You smell a faint unpleasant smell coming from the tunnel, like someone who has not washed in a very very long time, but the wind carries it away before you can mull over it too much

Merle held a hand out in front of the pastor then a finger up to his lips, finally speaking in a whisper. "Did you smell that? I don't think we're alone, be on your guard."

“I didn’t.” He mirrors your defensive posture. Approaching the tunnel mouth you’re not taken by surprise when two termites burst out. They’re wearing what passes for armor, made of scrap metal, old street signs and leather scraps. Each of them brandishes a cudgel and they’re 5m from you

Merle steps in front of the pastor training his pistol on the termies. "What do you two want? We have some food we'll give you if you listen to us for a bit, but beyond that not much besides bullets or lasers for your face, and neither of us want that. I could look over your wounds if you drop your weapons, but that's about all we could offer." Merle looked over their faces to try and gauge if they'd be receptive to his offer or if he should just start blasting.

They seem to be listening, but when presented with several options in the span of a few breaths, they're not sure what to do

Merle talks slower trying to seem less panicked when he speaks. "Let's start simple are you hungry?"

"Hungry, yes yes. hungry!"

"This tunnel might not be safe, where have you been staying?"

They refuse to answer this question. "Food. Food now, or die"

"Hey don't be rude. Pastor you can give them my rations."

They take the offered foil packages, and with them safely tuked under arms run into the woods

"You'll be alright won't you, and I don't eat. I figured that was the easier path with how my last fight went."

"Nonsense, there's enough for us both. Two on two wasn't good odds, even if we had guns"

"Yes, but I'd rather not waste and save the rest for you, miners, or emergencies, pastor. I'm not a very good acolyte if I don't use my gifts to help. Also those two didn't seem too far gone, if we can rescue souls from the brink and not die in the process, why not?"

“If we were to autopsy them you would see just what I mean. You’re right though, their outsides were relatively intact “

"Hmm an autopsy, perhaps, I wonder what the state of their brains is, but another time when there is less at stake. Anyway let us be on our way before they or others come back."

Passing through the tunnel, the tracks end as they're choked out by weeds and trees that have fallen over them. the mining camp is ahead through a thin copse of trees and you can hear the clank of metal axe-rakes on stone even from a distance. The encounter with the Termies has the pastor spooked, and he's eager to be behind friendly lines again.

Merle put up his pistol moving toward the sound. "The mines are usually safe right? Maybe we can get someone to escort us back if we do some work for them or something. Or find a way not through thst tunnel at least,"

"I hear them working, not under attack. We should be fine."

Merle nodded and continued to the mine.

The mines are a large complex of tunnels dug into the side of an iron rich mountain. Dozens of fraternity members are here toiling under the direction of a pair of more senior cult members. Everyone is working hard, even leadership, to try to secure any resource possible to help. individual protection belts are worn by everyone here, there is no main stability field or resonator.

"Pastor, is there any reason they use picks snd not heavier mining machinery?" Merle looked around to see if any of the kinere had proper respiratory protection.

"Why, you know where some is? along with the fuel or solar chargers to keep it running for more than a couple hours?"

"Not yet, haven't explored the other old cities. Just curious mainly. Looking for ways I can help. I know it wouldn't be over night."

He nods. "Well, you find or hear something, you let us know, we'll put it to use"

"Of course, even at the slower rate of pics resources is good to have. I still haven't given up hope we could negotiate something with the city. Given it might be an uphill battle first encounters were worse than I would have hoped, anyway though we should focus on the miners. Now that we're here I'll try to be more acolyte again and follow your lead pastor." Merle nodded to himself bowing his head.

The miners begin to gather and you see a crude lectern has been made out of some scraps of wood and stone. "Alright, time to preach. Can you please hand me the books in my bag?

Merle nodded and looked in the Pastor's bag for the books to give him.

The prayerbook is a heavy volume wrapped in a thick oiled copper chain. The cover is unremarkable aside from the lock. “Thank you. What do you see when you look out and see these miners?”

"Hard working people who deserve the relief of our message pastor. Admittedly I'm a bit curious as well."

"A message of hope for those who would hear it, and a warning to those who would not. You mentioned curiosity, what about?"

"About your message. I was only recently accepted. This will be the first time I hear the message as well, im just excited. Hopefully that's alright?"

"I know my acolyte. Round up the miners, I will prepare"

Merle moved over to the miners. "Gather around everyone, it is time for your spirit and body to be refortified by the pastor's message. We will make sure you are all in good, mental, physical, and spiritual health!"

The miners begin to gather, some coming out of the caves blackened by ore dust and the tiredness of their labors. The pastor takes the chain from his large book and begins delivering a powerful sermon about how these breaches, and the storms are things to understand, and a winnowing stone that will help the Fraternity reach new forms, and new powers- not something to be shunned and worked away like those in Dremlas would prefer. Now is the time for spiritual strength, and devotion to the cause- for a strong will is the best defense against the howling tides of wild metaspace, set loose on this planet.

23:39

THere are teachings that those within the first circle of trust can learn, and he will be back to induct those who have completed their spiritual trials into that rank within the next two weeks

Merle waited to the side nodding his assent and making a mental note of the trials.

"Those of you who are brand new to the order will get those instructions circulated once the previous group matriculates, "

Merle tried to hold in his questions until after the pastor was finished with the miners.

The pastor goes on for a bit longer but it’s just reframing the same point. After about twenty more minutes the sermon ends and the miners return to work

Merle walks up to the pastor and puts his hand on his shoulder waiting to get his attention.

You have it, he turns, to face you

"So when would I be able to take or be prepared for the trials pastor? I didn't want to interrupt you during your message to ask."

"Next month, once this group is inducted. Yours will be more...arduous. More is expected as an acolyte and later clergy, than what a layman would be expected to endure (edited)

"That makes sense, or everyone would take on the calling, but don't worry I'm just curious not trying to get out of my duties or helping in general. We're still a community. I want to prove myself trustworthy enough that perhaps you'll trust me to represent you and to take our ideas to others. There are only so many of us on this planet, fighting each other is a waste. We should be working together, but I won't be able to convince anyone of that if I don't understand our beliefs fully first."

“We tried that already. The termies don’t have minds to hear us, and Dremlas had a chance , they declined. Well, aside from you and your friend in the scout corps now”

"Well Dreamlas is hard headed like those who went back, too used to being the only players on the table, and Brother Gamma is a good leader, but the shock and awe presentation, didn't exactly scream peaceful coexistence. That's why I want to learn from you and hopefully one day from him, see what it is we really want. How much it lines up. As for the termies. You saw, at the very least some could be interacted with. I think they might present an interesting tool, or something to study. Worst case a weapon to be both blunted and used against Dremlas. As you said we don't have their numbers. Even if it's just a common enemy to buy us good will and time, it's a problem we'll need to address eventually."

He pauses. "You're speaking like someone who's planning on going back there. Are you?"

"I guess it depends on what you mean by going back? I thought this was something I should at lest bring up eventually. I hope one day there and here aren't regarded so differently. Besides one way or another we'll have to go there to accomplish at least what I think our goals are. So I thought I would go where I'm needed most. Currently it's here. I still haven't learned enough to leave. Sorry, I didn't mean to make you think I would desert you. "

(yeah you were making it sound like you were going to desert, or that you were under the impression you could freely leave|)

(Well the point is more he wants to prove he's devoted enough to be trusted to help deal with Dreamlas. I mean can't just ignore them right? Might as well acknowledge the eventuality. For now he wouldn't want to leave if he could.)

(Got it)

15:09

“I understand now. You helped out today. I will show you the list of deeds and although you cannot start them now , you can prepare yourself for induction. If one of the faithful dies or shrinks away, you can take their place

"Well I hope none of them fails, but I'm eager to go through, and learn of the deeds I must make myself able to accomplish."

(I'll post a list here in a min, trying to figure out how to scale thjis)

Rank 1: Member

16:19

-Perform one deed of faith - transcribe Chapter 1 of the Book of Gamma - Perform one labor of mental or physical cleansing

"What do you mean by a deed of faith pastor?"

“It wouldn’t be a spiritual journey if I gave you the answers

"I have to wait until the last group matriculates to begin though? I did plan on reading things anyway, or is this what I have to do to qualify for the trials?"

(the list he gave you is the list of trials, since you just asked for it. Someone will have to back out or die for you to matriculate sooner. You can do the list though and wait until next time as well)

15:16

(this is me trying to set up your next set of quest hooks)

1

"Sorry, right need to do it on my own. I have some ideas. Just hopefully they still count and aren't as lethal as I fear." Merle chuckled. "So what else do you do while here, pastor?"

“Usually just counsel any of the miners having trouble but that’s more of a private matter between myself and the troubled who come to see me.

"Well maybe you could tell me how you help them in general, mainly advice? Is it usually problems of faith or daily life? I should learn if I can without invading anyone's privacy."

“ problems of faith. Problems of life. Faith is a main component of life”

"That makes sense, would you mind if I read and transcribed during that time then?"

“Of course. I will see you soon”

"Oh wait do you have a holy book i could use? I don't have my own yet, and I think we're too farfrom the library?"

(he already told you twice you could look through the books hes got with him while he does counseling)

(oh I thought that was back at the cave my bad.) Merle will take out the large chained book and sit down starting to read through it.

"Right I'll just use your old book, well do you know where we're going to end up sleeping might be easier if I waited in there. Though I might explore a bit first. Should be good to get to know people some. Don't want to come off as cold."

"Of course. that is one of your jobs. Mingle, shake hands, make some friends. THe miners will show you where we normally lodge"

Merle nodded clutching the book. "Alright I'll go meet some people, who knows maybe I can give some help or advice too, or at least spread some enjoyment. Have a good counseling session Pastor." Merle headed off into the camp looking for some miners, possibly some that might play a game of cards or dice, possibly for some credits.

The miners off shift are eating right now, but you can already see a few of them are beginning to get organized for some games involving dice

Merle moved to one of the tables trying to pick up a bit of the game they were playing, not that it made much difference when it came to dice games.

(I actually have one we can play if you want)

14:48

https://www.dicegamedepot.com/ship-captain-and-crew-dice-game-rules/

Ship, Captain, and Crew Dice Game Rules

Compete rules and variants for the Ship, Captain and Crew dice game. Often used as a drinking game, or even for stakes, this is an easy to play, casual dice game that's good for playing with a larger group.

(how would the lucky work just 6 rolls?)

(Lucky?)

17:33

(I don’t think the foci would apply to this if that’s what you mean since it’s not a skill check )

(Lucky Some fund of remarkable luck has preserved your life at least once in the past, and continues to give you an edge in otherwise hopeless situations. This luck does not favor the already-blessed; this Focus can only be taken by a PC with at least one attribute modifier of -1 or less. Level 1: Once per week, a blow or effect that would otherwise have killed, mortally wounded, or rendered helpless the PC somehow fails to connect or affect them. (The PC makes any rolls related to games of chance twice, taking the better roll.) Level 2: Once per session, in a situation of need or peril, the PC can trust to their luck and roll 1d6. On a 2 or more, something fortunate will happen to further their goal, provide an escape from immediate peril, or otherwise give them an advantage they need, if not immediate victory. On a 1, the situation will immediately grow much worse, as the GM sees fit.) (I'll leave it up to you but technically it says any rolls related to games of chance. Which is why I asked.)

(Yeah o guess six rolls then)

(sorry I don't mean to bully you about it just curious. I assumed you'd be rolling at least that many times if divided up between several npcs lol. )

)no it makes sense )

17:44

(I just forgot the fine details of the foci )

1

Merle sat with the miners. "You mind if I join, looks like a fun game and I've been itching to try my luck at something, make sure it hasn't given up the ghost before I do something stupid for my trials. My name's Merle, and I'm studying to become the Pastor's acolyte, so I thought I'd say hello and give some of my credits to the hard workers of this mine." Merle chuckled holding out a hand to the group, the large book still in his other.

The crew is 3, so you makes 4, which seems like an accepted enough round to play in. The wager is 10 credits.

22:34

Miner 1 - straight 4's. No ship, captain, or crew Miner 2 - 3,2,5 no ship, captain, or crew Miner 3 - 2,3,6 , none of what is needed

(i fucked up, and shoud have been rolling 5 dice per round)

01:01

(but we can say lucky makes you win for this round)

(You can reroll if you want or roll like you were supposed to.. We're still learning stuff. Gotta win at a fair game.) (edited)

(wouldnt have helped, none of them got the sequence when i rolled 2d6 more for any of them)

(lol I messed up too forgot to roll less dice when I held some.)

01:48

(We can just call it a wash and go to round two.) "Hmm we'll just call that a practice round for fun, but this time the credits are on the line. We didn't agree to bets anyway." Merle chuckles.

01:48

(also we didn't agree to bets anyway lol)

(True)

12:53

The stakes this round are five credits , everyone a bit off put by their bad luck

Round 2- Player 2, no useful dice Player 3, Has a ship, captain, and crew. Will begin scoring next round Player 4, same as player 3

(do you keep them from round to round? I thought it was three rolls to try and get 654 then 2 cargos?)

14:46

(first roll bank a 6 second bank a 5, 4 and second 6)

14:46

(on last roll another 3)

14:48

Merle boat captain crew 6 and 3 for cargo. (lol same as if 3 rolls) "Guess the book does bring me luck after all, You in for another round? We could make it more interesting. If I win again you'll have to give me your names."

(You keep the ones round to round if you got what you needed)

1

(Sorry wasn't sure if you would agree to terms.)

(Oh got it. I guess we will see how the adventure goes. They’ll owe you a favor maybe rather than make a bunch of one off npcs

(Nice yeah the idea is more make friends and have fun than bleed miners for credits at a time. At least this roll lol.)

(Alright, so we have more rolls coming then i think)

22:40

(round 2, of 1 roll of 5 dice)

(Or less if we have stuff already? Captain crew and ship?)

(sorry not sure if we need to re roll the 456 Doesn't that stay, or did I roll too many dice at once?, wasn't it in things of 3?)

(you re-roll the final 2, for the next 2 rounds to try to get the highest score you can

01:35

(you dont have to re-roll both if you want to try to hold at any 5's or 6's)

(oh, I didn't realize we were doing it one roll at a time so I rolled all 3 at once with my extra rolls.)

Merle wins the round , and you now have 40 credits and a favor from them

Merle pushes back from the table. "Well I don't want to take too much of your hard earned credits, thanks for the distraction it was nice meeting you, but I should probably get to reading this thing before I hit the sack." Merle stood and extended his hand to the miners with a smile.

There are some firm handshakes and you begin reading the book , time passes and you’re not sure how king but the first chapter is about the storms and the myriad different metaspace effects what were first observed when people arrived here.

Merle nods to himself closes the book then heads to where he's supposed to sleep. Thinking on the useful effects of the observed metaspace effects.

(How I’m going to represent this is if you end up unprotected in a breach zone or something, or don’t have a belt you’d mechanically know what the effects are in a region)

(Interesting)

(or ig uess what the effects are in general, but everyone here has personal protection tech, so there's nothing to know)

(okay I sort of get the idea of the book knowledge, but I am confused where merle is physically now. Hopefully that makes sense?)

(you're outside the mines still)

18:57

(we didn't leave)

Merle looks around closes his book then heads to where the pastor told him he would be sleeping.

The cots are large for you both, coated in the best of the blankets and the pillows that coul;d be spared. you're in an old dry goods shed, the rations that once existed here have been eaten through a long time ago

Merle lays down wondering about the lack of rations making a note to speak to the miners before passing out underneath the covers.

Morning comes, and you're up before the preacher. There are plans to head back to the main cave network once he wakes up today, as soon as the initiation is over.

Merle looks through the book curious if he csnd find mention of the initiation or other holy trials.

The book mentions a pledge to be loyal, along with a magical promise made on the book. It is rumored that disloyalty brings death, as the magical pact is invoked

Merle looked at the passage thinking for a while, perhaps it was best he wasn't able to participate quite yet. He wondered if Bart knew anything about things like this. The mention of death was slightly off-putting, but if it gave him a chance, he'd have to try it. Merle looked through the book for what brother Gamma had mentioned do long ago, the turning off of all the life saving inhibitors. The death oath reminded him of it.

(It’s basically the Yama king power but bound to the book. There’s a relic that does it)

1

02:37

(I just forgot the name )

You hear a popping in the treeline that's more than some machinery or a tool falling over. A miner in front of you fall,s a shot through his chest. There is another pop, and a window on one of the small shed nearby breaks. Someone blows a whistle.

Merle grabs his laser pistol and frantically puts in his pack putting away the book, and looking for the pastor. He tries to keep low and out of sight of the windows as he crawls where the pastor is sleeping. (edited)

The pastor is waking up now gently As. There are another pair of shots outside.

05:37

The pastor is waking up now gently As. There are another pair of shots outside.

05:37

“WhYs going on” he half mumbles

Merle puts a hand to his lips then whispers. "Shots from outside, at least two with one dead. I figured they might be after you or the mine."

"did you see them?" he asks, as he pulls enough of his senses together to begin fishing his weapon out of his bag

"Only the one that got shoot. I didnt think it'd be a good idea to go by the windows at least until we had a plan, and I thought I should get you up since that miner is probably dead. It sounded like the shots are coming from the treeline."

He sighs and begins shuffling over to just below the window. "Alright, I'll cover you. There is a log 10m from the front door, facing the trees. If you can get there, I can leapfrog over to you, and we'll push into the treeline together

"Just us vs some sharp shooters? I don't mind the danger but we'll have to get damn close even to see them let alone have a shot, and I'm not a good one. Alright, just no needless danger, don't expose yourself while covering me. I might be able to take one shot from them if I'm lucky, but I don't know if you can. So I'm going to expose myself more when I cover you. See if I can bait out a shot while we're looking give ourselves an exact destination. These people need you Pastor, me they just met. Just promise me if I die here no matter who's toting those rifles you'll try to avoid all out war with Dremlas." Merle clasped the pastors arm then nodded to himself crawling to the door before the other man could respond then motioning for him to do the same as he stood and got ready to thow the door open and run to the log.

There are two shots from the window into the treeline and a third sends a bolt through the forehead of a termie that exposes himself too soon

Merle breathes a sigh of relief. "At least it's termies, I was scared it was something more direct for a second. Is it stupid if I hope to catch one alive? Though I won't try too hard if it'll risk people. On your mark pastor."

(am I dumb was that the covering fire?)

(That was the covering fire because he fired)

16:46

“You’re still here?” He sighs. “I’ve got three shots left in this cell. You better go” (edited)

Merle nodded and ran for the log trying to keep low worrying about getting there more than getting any shots off.

Run or shoot, your training comes back to you, and you dive into cover as a machine gun begins opening up on the mine entryway. It coughs and jams a couple of times from its treeline firing position as the surplus and poorly maintained ammunition either fails to ignite or fires prematurely. Enough of the ammo works though, and every time a jam is cleared 5 or 6 shots head out to the mine.

Merle pops up and tries to circle closer covering the pastor and maybe getting off some shots.

You’d need to head into the trees to do so, but you may be able to sneak in if you’re fast and quiet

(Is the machine gun emplacement separate from the sharp shooters or both in the tree line?)

(all of them are in a group in the treeline)

(might as well try to sneak then since even if I fail I'll be the distraction I meant to be?)

16:01

Merle ran until he hit the treeline then tried to sneak around to where he thought the shots were coming from.

(sneak.dex)

(8)

You’re able to get into the woods escaping the notice of the enemy. You hear a muffled cry and the slice of a machete 30m from you, hidden in thick brush

Merle moves towards the sound of the machete hoping he can help if it's a miner and possibly get a drop on the termies.

You see Bart disembowel one of the machine gun crew, and stepping forward past the falling body to lock blades with the gunner. You see a sharpshooter emerge from the woods to begin lining up a shot on bart. The shooter is 10m from you

Quickly deciding it's too risky to hope he'll make the shot. Merle yells out as he points his pistol at the man. "Hey you drop the gun if you don't want to breathe out the side of your face." He tries to judge if the shooter will drop it only giving them a few seconds before opening fire.

The termie is not going to comply

Merle takes the shot hoping he can get the termie to try and shoot him instead.

(whenever you're back from exile we can roll this out, dont stress yourself)

(Lol ill try not fully exiled yet just on dog watch.)

00:41

(12/7)

The termie never gets a chance to make a decision. Your shot puts a neat hole in his forehead and he falls backward into the brush

Merle looks at his gun almost surprised and moves to take the rifle seeing if he can better cover Bart or the Pastor.

Bart has handled his enemy, bisecting him with the machete, and in the confusion and sudden turning of the tables, the Termie raid has crumbled. The survivors are fleeting into the woods and likely arent' worth pursuing.

Merle takes a shot at one trying to hit them in the leg.

19:13

(1/5 oh well)

The shot is a good departure measure but you’re unable to hit them, and they’re no longer worth following

"Bart, I didn't expect to meet you out here, are you alright, the termies didn't give you any trouble?"

"We've been tracking them for a while- we lost the trail when we heard the machine gun. Came running. How is camp? anyone hurt?"

"A few miners, let's go see if we can help anyone." Merle holstered his pistol and ran back to the first body he saw.

"Let's not try too hard. Remember, we're not here as actual...them. Anyone who succumbs from wounds is one less Dremlas has to deal with"

"They're still people Bart, I have my own theory about why they're so fanatic, but I can't tell you here. Just remember yiu start thinking if people as numbers, you're as bad as Gamma!" Merle continued toward the miners hoping he could at least help some if them.

A few have minor wounds, mostly from shrapnel or glancing shots.

Mele Heals those he can hoping to put this attack behind them as quickly as possible.

(heal/int)

(Do I still need to roll of i use magic? Instead of kit?)

(no, id say record slot uses but this is the end of the scene so it wont matter anyway)

(It just makes more sense even than using the diagnostic spell if it's just surface injuries, st least I think?)

17:40

Merle went between the miners healing them and checking them for wounds. Those beyond his gifts in the back of his mind.

(it does, im agreeing with you)

1

You’re able to patch up a few who need the most immediate help. You can see Bart and his scouts looking on. They secure the area and Bart ensures you see his cold seethe whenever you look over in his direction

Merle gives a nod to Bart and tries to walk off somewhere out of earshot of the others once he's patched up the last of the miners.

(To meet Bart or by yourself ?)

(trying to meet bart)

Bart tails you back to where the machine gun was set up under the guise of the two of you going to recover it so the miners can use it

05:29

“So what’s the story?” He asks once you’re out of earshot. “You cross the line to work for them now?”

"You keep talking like us and them are different, we still really don't even know what they want. They're people who were trying to survive with no help from the council, no help from the alliance and did, and know more about the null storms. That's something we can't just throw away over the activation of the old cities. I want to know Gamma see how much that fire and brimstone is bluster, what his end game is. If there's anyway him or the rest could be turned or join us. In the end one city even the capital, we could use their help their resources and they could use ours. Why have our teams die fighting the termies and exploring if we don't have to. There are some things I have to tell you now though because I might not be able to later. Can I trust you to listen with a level head? I haven't given you up I've honored our agreement, and lest you forget I did save your life."

“I haven’t forgotten. I’m just asking the questions that need to be asked. Your answers make sense to me. So let’s hear it, what did you have to tell me”

"Well you know I'm training to be the pastor's acolyte fastest way to the inner circle I figure. I know they have to go through some kind of trial, and swear on a book. Some kind of magic deal, so they're bound to it. I don't know the details, but I think that is worth investigating, which is why I'm going to try and go through the trials. I figured I'd tell you in case something goes wrong, or I can't later. As I'm still not sure of the extent of their motives or how much they're ruled by the book and Brother Gamma. I'm still not sure if brother gamma is one person or a title. Makes sense to me at least. You can't kill an idea. Though I think they've mainly been fighting termies. What about you find anything out during your scouting. Any other factions or places still standing. I heard the termies are broken into tribes with one larger than the others, but that'd be hard to approach as they're a bit unpredictable, but we'll know more when we get these bodies to the labs."

"confirming what you're saying mostly. There's a few random homesteads out there in stable areas but they're few and far between. "

"Well that's something we could do right rescue them, make sure they aren't converted or become termies, maybe establish a sort of militia? Communication might be rough. I wanted to get closer to the pastor and gamma before I ask how they feel about people who haven't converted I don't think all of the people in the settlements are acolytes. I'm more focused on getting people safe and taking our planet back then we can worry about the fraternity. At least they're a group we can negotiate with. The termies, well you saw them at best volatile raiders at worst too crazy, but still with enough skills to operate heavy machinery. I wonder if we could navigate a cease fire, but that's probably wishful thinking. I don't know I feel like I'm overplaying my hand promising anything like that right now, but I can't help but want to go deeper, it feels wrong to give up on these people and their research. If everyone had a personal belt in the capital something like the collapse would never happen again. Isn't that something worth risking your life for?" Merle looked down feeling a bit unsure. "And if I stay I have to be fast to my convictions, besides that's the best way to learn quickly. If you do decide to head out. I'd say you should do it under the guise of a dangerous mission, unifying the homesteads or infiltrating the termies something where dissapearing for a long time wouldn't draw notice. You could do it and report back. Just my idea though, I can't really tell you what to do, I'm going to be here trying to get close. An acolyte until I'm not if I'm able. I'm still a bit worried about that book."

“You’re thinking it might be more than just a symbolic gesture then? What about destroying it?”

"Who knows with that kind of magic, you might kill the people sworn to it or something? Or maybe it's what lets him absorb souls. Either way I think not an option? Maybe a last resort, but not if I'm going to be sworn to it. I was more thinking swipe it?"

"something to keep in mind, is all. We should get this back to the camp, I think we've talked long enough for now"

"Sure, just worried is all. With the trial ahead, but I have reading to do anyway. I was wondering if you and your scouts might escort us back. Ran into some termies strong-arming people in a tunnel earlier, bribed them with food, but you can never tell." Merle started to head back. Not caring who overhead the less delicate conversation.

"We're headed that way anyway, gather your things. You don't want to be here to see us cut the heads so we have proof of the patrol we destroyed"

"You're not taking the bodies back to the lab? I was planning on dissecting them, I'm not squeamish."

"You cna have the bodies when we're done. I need proof we did what I'm saying we did"

"Weird we'll have to see. Probably have to do the dissection here, though I imagine the facilities are less than ideal. Maybe we can catch one on the way back. I wonder if they have any stun prods."

Bart isn’t listening anymore. He’s collecting his proof to bring back to the cave garrison to prove they handled the termies. His scouts are forming up to escort you and the pastor back.

Merle nods at Bart and looks for the pastor to make sure he's alright before they leave.

He’s not in the best of spirits but for now he will make the trip back

"Do you know if the mine is attacked often, maybe there is a group of termies around here or something?"

“They don’t usually come this far south. They’re either lost or on the move for some reason”

"I dont like either of those. I was thinking should we do an autopsy here before we head out so we don't have to cart these bodies back with us? It might give you some time to rest, console the miners and burry the dead." Merle paused looking at the pastor. "I'm going to ask what will likely seem a callous question, so I want to ask your permission. Hopefully you know what I'm getting at..."

"I'm not going to let you circumvent the scout team. I'm not getting into the middle of a power struggle"

20:35

"those men are trained killers, all of them. You don't want to be on the wrong end of them either"

"Well I know one of them, he said he didn't mind since they are reporting back as well. Don't worry, besides I think I've saved his life what twice now?"

20:46

"And I more meant you said earlier I wouldn't be able to do my tests unless some of the current group died. I tried to heal anyone I could, but I'm too excited not to ask, were any of the dead with the current group?"

"Ah yes. Two, as a matter of fact. Have you completedf the trials? "

Original message was deleted or could not be loaded.

Pinned a message.

"Not quite mainly the reading and copying. I was thinking perhaps I could do the other two on the way back. You will head back with the scouts. And I'll go back on my own. Without a belt or supplies and meditate on the things I've read and written?" (edited)

He shrugs. "Its your risk. YOu know what going back without a belt means, right?"

"If I'm caught in a storm I'll likely be killed and probably be changed. Hmm would this pervert the cleansing? That's the only thing I'm afraid of."

"Merle, you wouldn't care about any of this anymore. You'd be a beast. "

"Even if I don't get caught in the storm?"

"You've read the book and been out of Dremlas long enough. I think you know the answer to that question already"

"Hmm maybe just take the book and coppying materials and return when I'm done then, leave with only the supplies I need to copy and the clothes on my back and my belt? Still a bit of a race and I'd be somewhat vulnerable. Would that be enough for the tasks?"

"You're not taking the book with you. Its our only copy. You'll have to finish your transcription when you are back. You also just said you're not taking the belt"

"Well then I guess I'll go out with nothing. I might be a bit behind you if I'm going to do some dissections on those termies, but would you take my things back for me?" Merle held out his pack to the Pastor only taking his journal and knife from his things.

(I'm just confused on what we're actually doing)

(Sorry, I was trying to see which things could be done. Cause it seemed like he was saying even walking back without the belt you'd just die anyway so it'd be pointless even if I got lucky and there wasn't any storm, so I wasn't sure about that part, and the other thing was dissecting the termies that they cut the heads off of and taking notes, in the blank or used to be blank book not the holy book.)

(You wouldnt die anyway as a certainty, but you'd be exposed to all kinds of possible weirdness, or nothnig at all could happen)

23:17

(the tides come in and out randomly)

(ah okay, that's what I wasn't sure of. Then yeah giving him my stuff so it's a test, then dissecting the termies if possible and heading out.)

(Alright )

"I'll take your things back for you, of course"

Merle nodded and handed them over, and gave the pastor a pat on the back. "I'll see you when I get back. I'm going to try to write what I can from memory, but I doubt the trip will take so long." He smiled at him as he walked off to find the termie bodies.

THeyre still in the trees where they had fallen, though missing the heads now

Merle thinks for a minute then looks for some miners not wanting to leave an even more grisly scene for them to clean up while they're still burying their own dead. (also just a personal note thing, but would the pastor have presided over funerals or anything, I might ask the miners, but I assumed not cause he left so quick.)

They don’t seen to be doing more for the dead aside from stripping them of valuables and burying them after

Merle shrugs at the indelicacies and starts his work first casting the spell so he knows possibly on what area to focus first cutting away the clothes then preparing to take the incision and stopping every once in a while to take notes.

The bodies are human and the things you find inside are still human tissue just not in places it is supposed to be. Nothing has made it so the termie would biologically die , but a heart studded with teeth would make every moment of life a microcosm of agony

Merle takes note and rushes off into the forest. "Heart teeth fuck, I'd better get back quickly." He starts scribbling out what he can remember of the chapter he read into his notebook.

(D10, and a mental save) (edited)

(1 and 20vs 11 pass)

02:33

(I saw one repeatedly and did save on phone so I think it's there.)

The area ahead is calm and free of the tide of the null breach for right now. Your mind remains unclouded and your body is strong as you pass through the area immediately adjacent to the mine. You find another termie body on the way, that the scouts missed. He just have been shot and died of his wounds later

Merle makes sure to take any weapons the man has. Then verify he's dead with his knife at the man's throat while he takes vitals.

He has a machete but no other weapons. There don’t seem to be vitals to take, in this case he is very dead

Merle nods to himself taking the machete and stripping him to loot later before looking hus body over.

20:06

(would termies count as one for my goal or each? or not?)

(Yeah it would)

02:21

He has a backpack that’s in good repair and some rope but otherwise your belongings are in better condition and smell a lot better

Merle takes the backpack and rope sorting through it and taking out the less useful and smelling things, putting his book to the side then starting the autopsy on the dead termie.

(with teeth hart from 1/5 0/5 to 1/5 1/5 Dissect various alien fauna and aliens 5 of each to assume their forms then?)

(id say so, 5 samples to be able to do it seems reasonable. Its enough for you to see some commonalities and figure out what's actually an abberation)

(I figured I'd do it even if it doesn't count for this goal. Since when written i figured on like piggen, mosk, etc. Since it's something interesting and something that would help.)

You see this one had spider liek eye clusters once but otherwise was biologically normal

Merle notes it then cleans off his knife continuing on his journey with his new supplies.

The woods ahead are dark and you can see glittering in the trees as a null breach begins taking shape. It could be moments before it spills into reality. Or hours. It’s too hard to tell

Merle takes only a second to take it in trying to use his magic to adapt as much as he can to the null forces then running as quickly as he can back to the fraternity's caves. (dropping and recasting adaptive modification to be more suited to this environment now that he's studied the termies and the fraternity's holy book or trying to cause might as well try then running away so changes stay the same, and 1 level one spell slot used. I just wanted to note it cause I'm not sure if I'll be able to mark it on my sheet.)

15:15

(I think I tricked it into working on phone, 5/6 level one slots left.) (edited)

(exert/con, and a D10 as we try to outrun the storm)

(exert/con 4 and d10: 1)

Youre unable to outrun it, as the metaphysical dam breaks, washing over you (oh boy! D100 sir!)

(it's okay I have luck if it gets too bad, and other stuff)

23:35

(or would I have to use that now, since it has two different effects one to save my but and one that saves my but but only when dying, also I have the spell that stops unwanted body change stuff.)

23:36

(just wanted to ask before rolling the d100 so it's not to meta.)

(You’re not dying either way I’m just trying to get an effect table result together)

1

(41)

A small nub of antler like material begins growing on the left side of your head, sending the flesh previously in the way out in a bloody mist. You look like a stag in velvet and sense that this is all the local breach is going to do to you for now

Merle rubs at the horn. "Interesting, if slightly annoying, curious what it'll look like fully grown, too bad it isn't two." Merle shrugs and continues heading back, adding a bit to his notes.

You arrive back at the hideout around nightfall emerging from the storm to everyone’s surprise. The horn has begun turning an onyx like color and is taking on the texture of stone though it is not heavy

1

Merle smiles at the sight of the Fraternity cave. "I've returned from my pilgrimage, I just need to show the lab my notes, and find the pastor to finish readying myself for the trials." He firmed his resolve taking his journal out of his pack, as he headed to the mouth waving at any guards or farmers.

(That's just him talking to himself, wasn't sure if that was clear, like psyching himself up for his return. Also the horn is pretty cool.) (edited)

(Did you want to get right to the pastor then?)

(I'm cool with doing the rp of entering the cave again it's why I tried to slow down the wording from just heading into the pastor unless they wouldn't stop him. I don't know if you wanted to rp out the lab stuff or not.)

The cult is in disarray when you arrive. Gamma has been captured during a trip into the city to raise another clandestine breach cult. They don’t know if Dremlas authorities have begun questioning him yet or if they’ll get anything actionable out of them. Everyone’s worried about a succession crisis

Merle presses through looking to find the pastor who he hopes will be a more level head to explain what happened, and what will happen.

The pastor and the men who usually accompany him at mass are in his chambers. All of them are armed with short pattern projectile weapons, and a single spike thrower is also part of the group. The room is tense

Merle approached slowly with his hands up. "Pastor you're a sight for sore eyes, I made it back, I heard what happened to brother Gamma. Is there anything I can do to help?"

"for now, hunkering down. We're planning a meeting in an hour from now, but there are already factions developing. The entire situation is in chaos. "

17:19

"Gamma didn't believe he could be captured. There was no plan for this"

"Well what faction are we on? I guess there's no chance of me trying to do my trial until things are a bit more settled, is the book safe?"

"We're trying to prevent this state of affairs from happening at all. "

14:42

"The book is safe, but I see you ran into some trouble"

"Just a little, but I'm fine overall, a mark of surviving my trials. I assure you I'm still in full control of my faculties and devoted to the cause, I even stopped to do some dissections on termies that I found. Learning what we can about null storms is important, including null exposure." (edited)

"Besides I think it looks sort of majestic." Merle patted the base of the onyx horn. (edited)

He sits back for a moment. "I have an idea. It's going to require some..risk..on your part"

"I'm not averse to risks if the cause is right, what did you have in mind?"

"A new leader, at least until we can spring Gamma from captivity. We need you to either lead the mission into Dremlas, or put yourself forward as a candidate here. Someone from the established leadership is never going to get a vote of confidence from the majority of our members.

"I could be leader. I have an idea to rescue gamma, just need to see a few things. I think he should be safe with the goody two shoes in Dremlas for a bit, he's pretty tough. Do you know if there was anyone with him that might give up our location? Just if we were to be compromised it might be better to come out ahead, not have any risks to getting him back. Before any of that though we need to end the chaos and keep the fraternity united, so what would I have to do to make myself a good candidate?"

(3xp and 5,000 credits for getting back alive first

(Should I do level up?)

(Yes)

14:10

(if this does level you we should)

(Post incoming after I choose things and do rolls, hopefully later today.)

(level 4>5 hp 12>21 gain two level 3 spells and spells slots and one level one spell Manifest Aspect, and Perpetual molding, and Font of Persistent Life (level one) spell slot total level. Level 5 foci Authority Lead -1 > 1 3 skill points lead 1 >2 1 sp still banked for cast magic next level.)

Merle clutched his head exuding a bit of magic as his form rippled and expanded a more conventional antler shooting from the right side of his head. He pulled his robe close to cover up a bit of the new muscle growth and bone plates. "Well at least I look the part I guess." (Manifest aspect ac from base 10 to base 16 11>17 strength to 18 from 7.) He flexed his fleshy arm looking between it and the mechanical one, then back at the pastor and slowly dropping his arms. He seemed more definite the square jaw and defined features one thought of classically in a leader, a more confidant countenance.

"I propose we forward you as our candidate then, and we will do so at the meeting tonight. Behind the scenes, we will confer, and most of the camp officers will still keep their jobs. Gamma was always a mouth piece of the council, as much as he was a strong war-leader. When you meet a natural showman like that, you do not waste the opportunity|

"Mouth piece to whom? Just within the Fraternity, or did he often sneak into Dremlas?"

"Just within the Fraternity. If he spoke to Dremlas it was to threaten them, or more discretely to try to foster other breach cults in the neighborhoods. Nothing as an official representative of two political groups. They'd never meet him as a peer anyway" (edited)

"They don't see us as anything legitimate but a threat, we'll have to change that, but one step at a time, so what comes first pastor?"

“Getting our own house in order. We need to get everyone on our side, and then we launch a campaign against Dremlas to cause chaos and spring Gamma”

"Well, let's get our own house in order first. What are the other factions we will need to unify?"

“Well it’s us, the miners, the scouts , the farmers , and engineers.”

15:28

“I think we can rally the miners already since they’re a religious bunch

"Ah that's not too bad, the miners are a good sort, I already managed to collect a few favors I think an idea to put us over with the edge could be getting some automation in the mines, I have an in with the scouts, helped the farmers a bit with the traps I built and still have some info for the lab guys. Shouldn't be too hard to work something technical, maybe probe the ruins." Merle nodded to himself. "I think the thing that'll unite overall is a common enemy we can defeat, the termies, they're the most direct threat to us and less predictable, as much as Dremlas postures, the Alliance would rather solve things without force, and their main goal is known to us, I think if they can which means we could negotiate with them unlike those crazies who could at best be manipulated, or confused into attacking who we wanted. I have my own plan for that, but we don't want to make any promises we can't keep. What can you tell me about the council? About Gamma's old message. I feel like those are important things I don't know. Once we're done here I need to find Bart and the scouts, I think he'll help put them behind me as leader since we have a bit of a rapport, you came over with them, I know you were a bit scared, but what's your opinion of him. You're one of the people I trust the most so I'm hoping we can be honest with each other, you've done nothing but help me since I showed up so I want to return the favor, make things better for everyone."

“Gammas message. I’ve already told you and it matters little now. The cult needs to proceed “

"Okay, just trying to establish what's important, but we can just get started then. Before I offered to change you with magic, but you resisted, if I told you now, you could look however you wished, with only a small token to mark you as one of my chosen.." Merle gestured to his horns. "Would you still resist me?" (edited)

“I don’t want to change my body. I’m happy with things as they are “

14:49

“If forced mutation is part of your creed there’s going to be bigger problems “

Merle held up his hands and smiled. "Of course not forced, that's why I offered. Purely cosmetic changes. I'd hardly call it mutations at least for you or most people I ask. What would be the point of uniting people to despotism, that wouldn't be bettering anything. I just don't want people to be afraid of magic, or the unknown especially when it can benefit them, it is the same idea as studying the null storm."

“Your opinion is in the right place. We should call the meeting and try to salvage this situation. Do you think you can find your friend Bart ?”

"I think so, he probably hasn't gotten too far. Just be careful." Merle smiled and gently patted the pastor's shoulder then went out to look for Bart and the scouts.

You remember Bart saying they were going to eventually return here to resupply before getting close to Dremlas. You're not sure if he is planning to use that trip to make his way back to civilization or not, but his group is surely in the woods nearby by now.

Merle thinks to himself then turns around heading back to the pastor. "I'm going to head into the woods, find them out there, is pilgrimage done or should I leave my things with you until we're ready to continue?"

'You've completed. We'll discuss where this leads once the next couple of days are done and the camp has order again"

Merle nods and takes his things getting used to the heft of muscles with his new form and situating the rope, machete, and bag hoksterung his laser pistol before giving a quick two finger salute and heading back into the forest.

(If you wanted to grab any other gear we could arrange that before you go)

(Is there any basic gear they wouldn't have?)

(no they'd have pretty much anything basic)

1

(I'll try to have a priced list asap, just not sure what I have. No later than Friday. Idea is laser rifle, advanced knives. Machete, crowbar. Maybe a big boy melee weapon(sledge hammer) stuff that is weapons or tools, possibly a pick, I'm not sure if that would work under tool kit though. And scany stuff to help with medical/research med kit if I don't have one, that type of stuff. Just wanted to give a rundown so no surprises.)

(a lone pick is probably a large weapon more than a kit)

18:07

(which is 1 less encumber score)

(That's fine I've got str to burn now lol.)

(4x power cell type a 40, dataslab 300, survey scanner 250, toolkit post tech 300, set of knives for disections etc. 5 small advanced 200, pick large advanced 80 sledge hammer medium advanced 80, stun baton 50 total credit cost: 1300)

Stowing your gear you set off into the woods along barts path of travel.

18:21

This close to camp they haven’t bothered to hide their tracks much

Merle moves along it trying to catch up with them moving stealthily so as not to run across more hostile animals or termies.

(Would you mind if I changed my new level one spell to the limb one? I probably should have asked before I picked it, but stuff that Heals from mortal wounds to one wouldn't generally work on npcs right? Cause they die?)

)ThAts fine )

14:59

)and right. It only works on a companion or another Pc)

(Cool thanks neko.)

There are tracks heading back toward Dremlas. It seems that Bart has decided not to take his element home as promised, and might be beating a steady path toward the city instead. You're not sure how he would be planning to handle the scouts under his command, but you can only imagine it is going to be grisly, and will be done as soon as he has an opportunity.

Merle tries to move faster or catch Bart on his compad.

The pad seems to still be working and after trying for a moment you get a connection

"Bart this is Merle you done it or left yet? I got an idea. Gamma got captured and they're trying to put me up as leader. I need you to deliver the scout vote. With me at the top we can reconcile things with no loss of life or less hopefully."

"Merle, I told you twice, there's no reconciliation. THese people are dangerous terrorists, and worship the very thing that is tearing our world apart. You can either com back with me, or I'll ensure Dremlas sees you as an enemy when I return"

"Oh whatever, where are you?" Merle kept rushing towards where he thought Bart and the scouts might be. "Even if I agree with you, that we should kill all of the innocent people even after their leader was dead, if we do it that way innocent soldiers of Dremlas will die probably citizens too or do you care about them? I know you're tired and want to go back. So fine I'll go with you. You'll see there the Alliance will back me up on this when presented with the facts."

"We're not getting into the city with the others around. THey're going to need to be dealt with"

"Just be careful, there were a lot, why did you take so many with you? Hmm do you know who smuggled Gamma in, it wasn't them was it? Might be worth finding out. I'm not so capable but I'll back you up, might take a second to change in case of witnesses or escapees. Or do you think I'd be better use as a distraction? Maybe attacking termie, draw their fire? I got a rifle before leaving town." Merle takes a breathe trying to slow down. "So what's the plan?"

(which of those plans do you want to do?)

(Probably just show up he's mainly stalling so he doesn't kill the scouts I think.)

You hear the snap of rifle fire a few moments later , ahead of you in the thick gloom@and it sounds close

Merle takes out his rifle moving toward the sound.

There is another snap of a laser shot and in the gloom ahead you can see a body fall.

Merle sets his compad to start recording, raises his rifle at where he thinks the shot came from and gets ready to shoot and calls out to the darkness. "Bart is that you, have we been ambushed what's going on."

There is another two flashes of ligjt as you see Bart stride forward , weapon low. “That’s close enough Merle.”

"You lived, so the scouts are dead? What? Are you going to kill me now if not we don't have time for this, and if you are I'm not going to die without a fight." Merle stopped but trained his rifle onto Bart trying to force the panic out of his face and voice.

“You’re coming back to the city with me mearle. Dead or alive “

Merle shoots a burst of his rifle at Bart. "That makes one of us!"

(Initiative )

(7 I forget if that's good or bad lol)

(Also 7, he has one higher dex)

02:30

(Crit/9) the shot from his laser rifle is clean, punching a hole though Merle’s armor

(let me check my spells I think I have one that reduces damage with the quick regen as a reaction to getting hit.)

(I'm just going to take it since it's once per scene and can block 15 down to 12/21 I can try to shoot back now right?) (edited)

(Yes it’s your turn)

Merle fired a wild burst hoping to catch Bart off guard but was slow on pulling the trigger and ended up taking a shot first. "Damn you why can't you just realize studying the null is for the greater good. You're a murderer can you live with that?"(10/5)

"These aren't people. The only thing I feel when killing them is recoil" (21/7) He shoulders his rifle again and fires another shot at you, a single shot, though you see him flip the toggle for a burst next

(back to Merle)

(How far away is he?)

(20m)

(Shoot and move should have moved last turn probably lol.)

16:30

(23/11 hopefullythat hits.) Merle ran closer closing the gap by 10 meters shooting a burst a little more used to the quick fire of the rifle. "Now I know your full of shit, lasers don't have recoil. You're not worthy of serving Dremlas you psychopath I should have let the storm take you."

16:31

(Described it a bit just wanted to give an idea.)

(perfect. Bart is going to use his once per day warrior ability to negate the hit) "And you're serving it better by spending time with the cult? You forgot who you are Merle, you forgot who you serve" (23/6)

(Ah forgot still up 5/21 hp. Luck might have to kick in soon lol )

(he bursted)

(Hmm which no death to use. I guess luck first negate a fatal hit I think once a week or something I will go read as probablythe help part will be necessarytoo lol)

(Not sureif it's differentnow he's a neko pc but wasn't Bart a Yama king not a warrior?)

16:55

(I don't mean that as accusatory I just remember him shifting when he was a janitor. Bsck to looking up luck stuff lol)

(he was level 3 so he woudnt be dead from 11 damage either way, i am looking for the sheet) (edited)

1

(Some fund of remarkable luck has preserved your life at least once in the past, and continues to give you an edge in otherwise hopeless situations. This luck does not favor the already-blessed; this Focus can only be taken by a PC with at least one attribute modifier of -1 or less. Level 1: Once per week, a blow or effect that would otherwise have killed, mortally wounded, or rendered helpless the PC somehow fails to connect or affect them. The PC makes any rolls related to games of chance twice, taking the better roll. Level 2: Once per session, in a situation of need or peril, the PC can trust to their luck and roll 1d6. On a 2 or more, something fortunate will happen to further their goal, provide an escape from immediate peril, or otherwise give them an advantage they need, if not immediate victory. On a 1, the situation will immediately grow much worse, as the GM sees fit.)

17:12

(I figured using it not to die and perhaps turn tables but know I'll likely roll a 1 lol thanks again for running this neko. I know it puts a lot on you and hope you're having as much fun as I am lol.) (edited)

(You're not dead yet though, I don't think. Weren't you at 5 health?_

(or were you at 5 after that last shot)

(Yes at 5 remaining hp then took 6 damsge. 9 with the opening crit then 7 then 6) (edited)

(I'd say basicallyt his is your version of the warrior ability, so we'll keep you at 5, and the shot just misses)

17:30

(you're up)

17:30

(If you're using the lvl 2 to try to find an opening, we do need the roll)

(Of course just wanted to mske sure it was okay first, doing roll now.) (edited)

17:35

(Pass 3 v 1)

The poorly tuned power cell in Bart's gun fries even though he should have had more shots left in it, as the last one he fired misses you. (still your turn, but thats us tying it all together)

1

(Are reroll tokens for just attack or attack and damage?)

(just for the hit roll)

(5/5) Merle let out another burst lasers going wild. "I serve no one, but I fight for the people of Dremlas, the Fraternity, the homesteads and even the termies. Working with the population of one city when we could have more is foolish as are needless wars. The chaos must end and Dremlas become a society free to move about the planet not scared and hopping between bubbles. For that to happen we need to understand the null and they're the best bet."

He reloads his weapon (main action) as your shot sends clods of mud splattering all over his boots "The termies are little better than animals. They're a threat to everyone for destruction's own sake. They've attacked the cult here too, did you forget about the mines already? There's no negotiating like this. Dremlas is already free. It's this cult keeping the people behind the walls now, but not for long"

19:06

(you're up)

"I've been up front with you about it it won't be as easy as that bad for Dremlas to try guerrilla fighting. Just opens them up to more failure level events and there's things we don't understand. The termies can be healed I think I just need more time. You want Dremlas to die taking on the world you can do it over my dead body, but I think even you can be saved." Merle dropped his rifle drawing a stun baton and charging Bart swinging wildly the baton cracking to life as it streaked by him (10/8 rerolled to 2/8)

The monoblade sword Bart keeps readied in a sheathe on his waist flashes outwards as you swing the baton at him wildly, (24/7) punching deep into your changed flesh turned dermal armor, and into your chest. Thick blood wells out of the wound, as he uses applied force on the hilt to drive you to your knees. Breath is shallow, ebbing, and slowly turning into a death rattle

(I have the other no death spell still or am I just dead?)

(I need the name, "other death spell" doesn't really help me)

1

(Sorry had to bring up the sheet again. Sanctity of self) (edited)

(alright, its an instant action, so you can)

20:21

(still alive and at 5 health then) (edited)

(Sorry I know what I'm going to try just phone stuff being annoying that's why I was flounderING with foci and spell names a bit, sorry neko.)

20:32

Merle let the baton drop as his body knitted itself back together healing around the wound as he let Bart get close summoning up energy to try to hit him with the pick from his pack the clumsy mining implement striking off the blade. (10\12) (edited)

(The shock brings Bart to 0)

(That means he is dead because npc right?)

(unless you decided to do something about it)

20:41

(since this is sort of a special case)

(Ah sorry neko just trying to make sure stuff goes okay and that I don't meta things or as little as possible I'd think medkit to stabilize if possible vs healing because bringing him back up to kill me seems dumb even for me and Merle lol.)

(I dont hve the spoons to figure out what these hieroglyphs mean. Are you stabilizing him or ending the fight here?)

2

(Sorry just wanted to make sure I could try to stabilize him before rolling or rping it.)

21:02

(Make sure I did the roll correctly. )

(would be a heal/int)

Merle scrambled pulling the sword out if him taking his med kit from his pack and trying to patch up Bart enough he didn't die before being dragged back. (Heal/int 11)

(He's prone, and would regain alertness in ten minutes. When he wakes up i dont think there's goingto be a significant enough change in attitude for him to not try to immediately kill you)

21:24

(not trying to tell you what to do, but I feel like if you stick around and he wakes up to try to plug you right away , it feels like a cheap shot)

(Was going to tie him up with the stinnky termie ropes maybe see if the other dead scouts had something better. Then probably zap him if he moved. Not that trusting also I can heal myself a bit.)

21:29

(Thanks though neko I trust you not to be an ass about it but yeah if he wakes up he's mad. I just didn'twant to hit yiu with like 12 things to stop him again until I knew if he was alive first lol.)

Merle takes the rope from his new pack and makes sure that Bart is secure before patting him down for any other weapons making sure to take the obvious sword and rifle.

(notice/wis)

(6)

That’s all the weapons Bart has on him as far as you can tell

After Bart has been secured Merle stops the recording on his compad, and takes a look to see if he can help any of the other scouts. (I know they're probably dead mechanically but I have to check in case and rp wise I couldn't just not I think.)

Theyre all very deceased , your fight and handling Bart robbing them of the critical time they’d have needed to be treated

Merle makes sure to close their eyes. "I'll come back to burry you but for now know you were avenged." He stops for a moment saying something from the holy book, and then starts the process of healing himself. (My plan was heal up, pick up rifle and stun baton, then head back to town with Bart being dragged behind or over the shoulder. Just wanted to see how I should do it just one heal slot at a time? I just didn't know since there was sort of a time you gave until bart woke up.)

(Heal slot?)

(ah spell slot for heal sorry.) (edited)

(yes we need to allocate whatever you're using.)

(I will do the rolls then, hopefully it shouldn't be too many slots.)

(3 level one spells slots healed for 3 9 and 5 putting me back at full, and 2/5 level 1 slots left.) (edited)

It’s only taken you 18 seconds to heal and by time you complete the work you’re able to see Bart still has a while to go before he wakes up to try whatever he’s going to try

Merle readies himself for the return trip making sure to have his baton ready in case the prisoner should wake up before he makes it back to the cave. He then Picks up Bart over his shoulder and starts to head back. "You could have been a fox, but you had to ruin it by being a crazy asshole didn't you." He shook his head as he started back.

The walk is longer than ten minutes, and at about half the distance between your encounter site, and the camp, Bart begins to stir.

16:38

He isn't violent at first, and is adjusting to his surroundings

Merle zaps him with the stun baton.

he gets zapped

Merle makes sure he's out but still alive then carries on toward the caves.

Upon your return you can see things are almost at the breaking point. THe meeting between the various groups here has either broken down, or not happened at all, and some minor fighting has broken out

Merle looks around for the pastor or someone who seems like they'd be the head of the scouts.

The head of the scouts is over your shoulder and if there are any of his other men here- they're likely going to attack on site

Merle lets out a heavy sigh at the state of deterioration and looks for anyone who seems injured as he heads to the worship room.

(how many slots do you have left?)

(2 of each, level 1 2 and 3, 6 total) (edited)

(there's a lot of wounded, so i guess i should have asked how many you'd want to use)

(probably save it for the worst wounded and try to triage the others with the kit?)

21:54

(if there is that many badly wounded he'd use them all though.)

You find the pastor with your spells entirely used for the day. He is in the middle of a heated debate with the acting scout leader, and surprisingly the head of the miners. Brawls erupt all over the chapel as Gamma's former guards weigh in, keeping people back from his chambers though otherwise allowing the factional violence to beat itself out

Merle put Bart onto the ground then took out his rifle shooting a blast into the air Then called out at the top of his lungs calling out to the three leaders. "The hell are you fighting for, we're all part of the Fraternity. You endorsed me, you owe me a favor, and you'll want to see this. I brought you this traitor to face justice he killed the rest of the scouts on his patrol. I have evidence of it. If you endorse me he's yours to do what you want with."

"No endorsement without evidence!" one of them screams and you think the pastor might even agree with that statement, being a scholarly man himself

"Of course just hold your fire I have a recording right here that should be more than enough. Also I did come in with him, but I see why you wouldn't just take my word for it." Merle reached into his shirt and pulled out the compad starting to play the interchange and Bart's recorded words for the gathered crowd.

Bart is a traitor and that seem accepted, but it means nothing to the power struggle here, and it solves none of the succession crisis that is currently occuring

"What's your argument then. If we're going to be united we need to talk it out without killing each other. What has you all so worried that you'd open fire? We'll start with you the scouts."

"We should lead. We know the terrain and are the only ones brave enough to take the fight to Dremlas. Peace with those fools is not something we would ever agree to"

22:37

"It's them or us. We heard you too on that recording, heretic"

"Assuming you would lead how many of you are there in total, lets say you do know the land better for now. Besides if you heard the recording you know I said things to get him to make a mistake, show his true colors."

(Talk/cha)

(8)

“You’re from Dremlas yourself. How we do we know this isn’t another trick?”

"I admit I'm from Dremlas and I'd like to reconcile our people. They need to learn to adapt. Hopefully you can see from me bringing the man whose life I once saved, who i thought could be taught to learn, to face your justice my allegiance is to you all first. People here didn't fall to chaos like it did there. Perhaps you're fighting now, but every group was accepting and helpful part of a stronger whole. Isnt that what we should strive for? Fight for? Die for if it is necessary. I know I will, but not these petty squabbles. When I first met brother Gamma he delivered a strong message, but he accepted me. No needless killing. I think that's more important than ever. One way or another this planet needs to be united and well need everyones skills for that. You will be leaders, but where you are comfortable, where you are needed in the field. Your experience shouldn't be wasted, and neither should your lives."

This seems to quell the situation somewhat as your words begin making sense . "And your plan to bring dremla down thhe? and you plans for the fraternity? What happens when Gamma is rescued?"

"Hopefully we will find Gamma safe and alive. I will conduct a few tests. I can change shape so that kind of trick is something we can't rule out. Though if Gamma returns we will have an open discussion as now, there is a council for a reason. Everyone should have a say. If it's the will of everyone I should step down if brother Gammais recovered then I will, I am not a tyrant. Though If anyone tries to seize power in the chaos I will defend the council and myself tooth and nail. Brother Gamma welcomed me as I said it is only fair I try to welcome him back when the time comes."

"And what do you propose for the immediate moment? who will be on this council?'

"Two people from every group. So we can have enough to debate, make sure everyone is fed, warm the belts are working. We don't want a repeat of the mine attack. We need to be a cohesive group everyone cared for and heard. Then we can worry about the outside, expansion, recruitment, research."

(final talk check here at +2)

(Could I use lead?)

(You’re trying to convince them of your plan rather than guide them in battle, lead is basically what the tactics skill from 1E became)

1

(5 rerolled to 7 rerolled to 8 0 reroll tokens left.)

06:08

(crap I forgot if you can use multiple I should have asked first It think you can, but don't remember. Sorry neko) (edited)

(You can use multiple )

06:10

(What is the final result then)

(8 sorry)

“Alright. Pick a committees we will go with this plan for now. Nothing makes sense right now and itll stop us from killing each other “

"Seems like we should have the heads be part, but just so there is no infighting in the groups we can leave it up to a vote from within them. Then if the 8 of you want me as leader you can vote for that or nominate me, if not at least we've stopped killing each other so it's a win win for me and you can see I'm not just abusing the system because I suggested it."

The details of who the other 8 will be are something they’ll work out but they seem to be fine with you as leader

"If we're agreed on this course of action I think we should make sure the fighting has stopped around camp and find the leader of the farmers to guarantee their safety, and inform them of what transpired here, then decide what to do with the prisoner. As the most injured party I will heavily favor suggestions by the scouts, and remand him to your custody, though I would like to be informed of his fate, and tell you that he should be considered dangerous to every soul in this camp and possibly the planet with his psychopathic ideas, despite his charisma I would remind you he sees you not as people but enemies to be killed without remorse, his escape or release will not to be tolerated. When we reconvene we will discuss the problem of termies and any new issues, do any of you have any questions or statements before we dissolve this first partial and informal meeting of the council of the fraternity of the null?"

"We will keep him held here, in Gamma's quarters as they're mostly empty now- and there is only one way out. That way everyone can ensure he is in view, and that he will remain free of reprisal until you return to deal with him formally"

"Just make sure there isn't anything in there he could ruin or use to escape he's a spiteful and crafty character. Alright then I'm going to see if there is anyone else i can help in camp and make sure the farming and lab leaders are okay possibly double check that he didn't try to sabotage the belts in the confusion before he left. I think he didn't intend on coming back without an army behind him from what he said." Merle bowed to each of the leaders before going to inspect the state of the rest of the camp.

20:50

(also sorry if I lost track of a faction I forget if there was 4 or 5 formal subgroups I know it was scouts, miners farmers, religious and labs I think, or engineers? Two for each was the idea)

(scouts, miners, farmers, religious, and builders)

1

(Would bring accepted into the Fraternity of the null be considered complete. I was less sure about getting into gammas inner circle. I wasn't sure if I should wait on those until the trials or if they sort of got waived now that I am leader if the Fraternity. )

(iuts complete)

20:34

(It's complete)

(Yay)

(Let me check sheet stuff I think that's 6 for both but don't know if that's enough for a lvl up anymore. )

23:12

(3 off)

(Alright. I’m ready to continue once you’re squared away)

(I think that's it, please continue I think next is finding the builder and farmer bosses making sure they're not dead or killing each other.)

The head count continues and fighting elsewhere is brought to an end. The builders largely just remained in their bunk chamber with a barricaded door trying to wait out the storm. The farmers remained In the fields and made plans to flee if the complex erupted into a succession crisis or religious fighting

Merle looks for the farmer leader first wanting to make them aware of the vote decision and new council before trying to enter the bunker.

The bunk chamber door doesn’t open. They refuse to do it and insist you can speak to the builders and their leader through it

"Of course whatever makes you feel more safe. I wouldn't be opposed to handing over my weapons if that would make you feel more safe as well, but I wanted you to know that the fighting has stopped, I'm not sure if you can see out of your bunker. We've come to a consensus each of the groups will send two representatives to the next meeting. The other three thought I should be leader and I accepted their ascent but I wanted all of the groups to know what we had proposed. Something to make sure this kind of fighting isn't common. We need all of us here and unified, and I think this is the best way to achieve that. Hopefully you can see how fighting or isolation benefits none of us in the end? Though I understand and commend you for wanting to keep your people safe during this short time of internal strife, it's why the group of us is better as a whole than any of our parts. If there's anything else I could do to help prove it to you, please just ask I understand it's hard to take just words when there was fighting raging outside moments ago."

They are not going to take down their barricade to allow you inside, weapons or not. You can speak through the doorframe

"That's fine wherever you feel safer, though hopefully I can do something to help you know that it's alright to come out. I wouldn't want you not to be represented on the council or unable to continue building things."

"The fighting needs to end, and there needs to be unity. What happened to Gamma? why isn't he leading?"

"Gamma was captured while recruiting in Dremlas. We believe he's being held for now, but stopping the fighting, and getting everyone on the same page was more important. I stepped forward, someone had to, to stop us killing each other if nothing else."

“And what. You’re just in charge now since you took advantage of the chaos?”

"No that's what the vote will be for at the council two representatives of each side there will be a formal vote. I was hoping to gain the endorsement of all factions though. If there is anything I could do for you all. I don't intend to be a tyrant or a passive leader. That is why I came to find you. No one should feel like they have to hide away. There are enough outside dangers like the termies for us to be afraid or distrustful of our own."

(talk/cha)

(9)

They believe your intent, but they're still unwilling to take the barricades down

"Well if yiu think of anything O could do to prove it to you send a video or something, or do you have any wounded on there or people who might be stuck outside, I understand if it's just a matter of time, and I assure you no one will force you put of your bunker or try at least not dealing with me first. Was there anything else yiu were worried about just incase you're unable to attend the council I don't want you to feel unheard or like your votes weren't counted you have ny word even if they're against me I will make them known to the rest of the council. 2 votes as every other faction. I understand if you need time to discuss this among yourselves. I can return after meeting the farmers if that would help?"

“Return after meeting with them and we will have a list of what we want”

Merle nods mostly to himself. "Good luck and stay safe." He then heads out to the fields to try and make sure no one ran or he can organize someone to bring them back if they did.

The farmers look to have mostly fled or have gone to ground in the forest.

Merle looks around to those that remained trying to find someone to get a lead on their whereabouts.

(Notice or survive. Either would be with wis. Just let me know what you pick)

(Survival/wis roll incoming)

22:36

(6)

You find some tracks and discarded tools in the woods leading back in the direction of Dremlas

Merle sighs trying to follow the tracks and see if he can cut any of them off.

You’re able to get ahead of the largest group of them and are waiting in the middle of the road when they arrive

"You're the farmers right? Ots Your choice if course and if you want I'll try to make sure you get in safely, but I came to yell you the fighting has stopped. I helped to broker an agreement all factions getting equal representation so this shouldn't happen again. I wss trying to meet everyone make sure they knew and felt heard. There will be a council two members elected from each each getting a vote in decisions and for leader. I was hoping to secure your endorsementbut more importantly keep everyone safe I know the woods are dangerous and Dremlas can be too. I'm not sure how you would be treated there. Hopefully immigration won't be an issue eventually. Is there anything I could do to help you feel safe in returning with me though?"

The repeated cycles of violence has been too much for them. Dremlas is offering an amnesty program and without Gamma's charismatic vision to guide them, they're content with leaving

"How did you find out about this amnesty program, isn't communication with Dremlas mostly cut off?"

Several leaflets are produced, dropped over the surrounding region probably by aircraft from the city.

"Will you let me go with you? I want to make sure you enter safe and are treated fairly. Dremlas isn't the utopia they'd have you think, but it is reasonably safe for its citizens. I don't want you to think that you are being abandoned because you seek safety there."

(didn't you need to be here to unify everyone?)

(Possibly though he doesn't trust the matriculation pamphlets, and wants to make sure it's not something greasy like them walking themselves into a mass interogation and execution especially after the bart stuff. Also he assumes even if he's debriefed he wouldn't be held since he's a citizen of Dremlas and sort of doing important stuff for the good of both so worst case he'd be delayed and explain it was important on working toward the plan he laid out so was worth it even if it jeopardized his chance of leadership.)

(I’m trying to follow this)

03:24

“Well I suppose if you need to come with us we can see what this is all about, but are you sure you want to risk your safety?”

"Here or there I'm responsible for your safety and I have a few tricks up my sleeve. I'll try not to use them as much as I can, but you all living there just makes me worry more about Dremlas' safety as well and the alliance should know this. It's a little backward on how I wished to do things, but had to happen sooner or later."

(anything else we needed to do before setting off?)

(maybe just call the pastor to tell him what happened before going into town and to make sure the builders get heard out in case things go wrong?)

(probably one of the better decisions)

(well yeah but who wants to make those all of the time lol. I figure this is sort of moment when merle's goals vs ideals fight and he wouldn't want to abandon some of the people who helped him to a possibly bad fate in dremlas, also if its' all above board he could possibly use it as an example of cooperation. Sorry just I tell you tidbits so you don't think I'm ignoring warnings or completely off my rocker lol.)

(So, you’re not mentioning anything to the pastor then?)

(He would I just wasn't sure if you wanted me to transition into calling him before he headed in with them?)

(yes, you can do that, thats why i asked if you want to do that)

(ah lol)

00:42

Merle took out his compad and punched in the pastor's contact. "Hello Pastor this is Merle. I wanted to check in about how meeting the others went."

“They’re not taking the situation well. Everyone’s suspicious of everyone else even though the fighting stopped”

"Well at least the fighting hasn't started again yet. Look the farmers were more scared than we thought, they're headed to Dremlas. I don't want to leave them to go in alone. I figure this would be a good time to scout things and see what's developed while I've been gone so I can have something to report in at the first council. I know it's risky so I didn't want to bring in anyone else. Do you think you can make sure no one tries to take over the council or start the fighting again. I trust you to make sure the builders get heard. They're still in the bunkers. Let them come out in their own time. I know it's not ideal being absent for longer than needed but if I can settle things with Dremlas at least to a stand still then we can focus on getting our own things settled instead of worrying about outside attacks besides from the termies."

"I can try. I can't promise a decisive end to the fighting, especially if someone just as strong uses this time to rise up"

"Do your best, I'll be back, but if I just left our people to an uncertain fate I wouldn't be worthy of being a good leader anyway."

The trip back to Dremlas is expected to be long, and you begin falling in with the farmers to show yourselves at the city gates, and see if these flyers are anything more than a trap

Merle looked over the farmers feeling odd about coming to the gate again, he hoped they would be alright here and back at the Fraternity compounds.

a kilometer from Dremlas, you see the first signs of patrols- no people are here now but it seems as though the area is frequented by them.

23:21

boot prints , trash, and other trampled plants show paths that they take on their endless but unvaried sweeps around the city.

Merle makes a note still curious about the opening Gamma used to sneak into the city.

Gamma was rumored to have used a water outlet pipe in the city wall but since he has been captured that route is no doubt being watched or made unavailable. Even if he hasn’t talked, he’s probably been bombarded with enough telepathy to give up something

Merle takes a look at the pamphlet he was handed earlier wondering if they'll make it to the gate before running into a patrol.

The gate seems to be your destination no matter what. Your question is answered when 500m from the city gates a patrol of ten peacekeepers emerge from the brush

Merle waves the peace keepers over. "Hello I'm glad we found you. We were hoping for an escort to the gates I have some people looking to immigrate into Dremlas through the amnesty system and I'm a citizen myself. Also would you mind if I spoke with you privately before we set off?"

They raise their weapons, and begin firing on the farmers. The leaflets were a trap to flush out those of dubious loyalty toward the City, and now, they're paying for their lack of faith. (edited)

1

(hmm it's the same day and stuff so I don't have much I can do about it right. I'm pretty sure, but just wanted to check before doing really dumb stuff. Also how many farmers were there again? Sorry just trying to get details before doing what's probably a last hurrah or something.) (edited)

(Ten farmers. They’re not shooting at you just yet)

03:02

(The only person who knew you were a traitor is in cult custody now though )

Merle watched the slaughter and took in a breath letting out a sigh looking a bit impatient. He drew his own rifle just in case but knew it'd be better if he didn't fire a shot. He idly wondered if any of them would escape. "Well it's good to know I can still recognize an assembly operation. I'd... help you but wouldn't want to block your fire line or distract you, and I'm a shit shot. Just tell me when we can talk freely so I can check in with my operative in the field, then we can go talk to the assembly."

You’re the only one still alive out of the group and this seems to be as good a place as any to talk freely. The only other sounds are close range laser shots being pumped into any survivors to ensure that they can no longer be called survivors

Merle called the pastor again speaking quickly once the connection went through. "No time for a full debrief but I made it safely to the city. The full group fell into the trap, the pamphlets for the amnesty program worked without a hitch. I'm with some peace keepers so should be alright getting inside stay safe and expect radio silence for a while, I'll contact you if the situation changes. Do you understand? I'll close this call once you confirm you've heard and understood."

It takes him a moment of silence to piece together the nuance in your words. He presses a button for a tone, signaling he agrees, but does so without speaking. The call ends, and he no doubt is hurriedly passing the word and trying to figure out what the collapse of a skilled group of workers means for your organization.

"Well I'm sure you'll have someone come to dispose of the bodies, excellent fire lines by the way. In the mean time I need to give my debrief to the assembly and get back to a time sensitive mission. First leavers and all. Hmm one question before I go in, have you experienced more termie attacks than normal on your patrols?"

"Not against the city, but our last few patrols that have gone into the wilderness reported coming into contact with them"

"It's only a matter of time, but that's part of why I'm here, I have a plan, but needed to coordinate with the higher ups. Loss of our own troops seems frivolous, if we have options."

You're considered back in friendly lines. Those who knew of your actual intended betrayal are captured, or dead, and the soldiers have nothing to add aside from their willingness to escort you back to the city gates.

Merle follows them back to the city gates. "I missed the city. It's hard to be in deep cover but I think I did a decent job. Have any of you interacted with the assembly in person?"

They are just regular guards who do patrols for the city and their need to be at a assembly meeting is as close to zero as it is statistically possible to be, based on their somewhat rude answers

"Ah I'm sorry if I caused offense. Just I haven't met them either. You do good work though everyone is necessary in the support of Dremlas and I wanted to thank you for escorting me."

They say nothing more as you're left at the city gates, expected to go about your business

Merle gives them a nod and heads to the assembly building.

(what did you want to do here? nobody is really participating in it)

(is the assembly just us or the main thing is interacting with the council or whoever is in charge. As opposed to other players.)

20:30

(sorry if that was the wrong place.)

(the assembly is the player council)

(where would it be then?)

(The channel for it where it always is)

15:50

(I’m really lost as to what you’re doing. I’m not sure how to advise)

(Trying to report on to the npc command structure, sorry I meant where that would be in game not where the community I A thread was. Hopefully that's more clear?)

(okay but the players still need the information so lets not ask the same questions twice, lets use the IA congress thread so there's no confusion)

(I could do it there, thoughit will change things a bit obviously if I'm speaking to every pc, and the mosk thing was next right?)

(One thing at a time)

(Sorry, I'm just confused as to what's happening now, or how you wanted to go about it.)

(you said you needed to report to the assembly. I said okay do it in the assembly thread so everyone gets your information. Then you asked about Mosks. So I'm as confused as you are)

(The assembly thread is discussing Mosks currently, though has been stalled. I think I misspoke earlier possibly when I said assembly. I meant whoever is in control of the alliance, and dremlas specifically. The ones who would decide things. Who I think are npcs? I didn't mean make a report to the I A pcs about happenings. Though I could if you wanted me to.)

(I'll have to figure this out another time)

(Ok)

(Well, nothing much is happening there. Is there anything you plan to do or can do without an answer from the group?)

(Hmm I'm not sure. Investigating the break out cults, the fake amnesty program and Gamma stuff were my other ideas, but that seems like it might need approval? I don't know how doing stuff in dremlas would work without an answer though?)

(if you wanted to see the neighborhoods, you could. No one is going to stop you from traveling in the city)

(that could work would it be common knowledge where Gamma was grabbed?)

(Yes)

(I guess he would head there then or try to. I as a player don't know where it is though.)

The water pumping station down near the southern wall is where gamma was captured. The station is still being observed by peacekeepers since its now a way into the city

Merle tries to find a meeting place close by something like a bar or abandoned building.

There is a laundromat closeby, that gives a partially obscured but close view of the pumping station

Merle sniffs his robes then heads into the laundromat.

He arrives there. It’s about as busy as you’d expect it to be. There is still crime scene tape on the pumping station

Merle heads in and tries to find a place he can buy some soap or an attendant.

There is an attendant there

Merle would walk up to them. "Good day, I was hoping to get some clothes washed do you do wash by weight here or only the self service machines?"

“Okay. You’re free to do that. The prices are listed on the machines. Is there something else you need?”

"Oh I was wondering if you had any soap or knew something about all the peace keepers next door?"

“They’re just beat cops. Watching the neighborhood since gamma was captured here”

"Hmm do you know any place around here that might be good to get a drink?"

“I’m a laundromat clerk not a concierge” (edited)

"I know but surely you must have some place you like to go to unwind a bit? Ah well. I'll let you get back to your work. Thank you for your time." Merle gave them a smile and nod before looking between the machines for one that could wash his clothes in one go and a place to change.

There’s a restroom here and a large capacity machine. You could accomplish both tasks

Merle heads to the restroom and changes into his not often used heavy jacket out of his now usual robes and other clothes then heads to the washing machine trying to see if it adds hits own soap.

It does

Merle puts in the clothes and waits for them to be washed occasionally sparing a glance outside or taking out his records to go over them and add what he can from memory.

(I am very confused as to what we're trying to accomplish here)

(nothing specific I guess since most of the big things I'll have to wait on. I was sort of trying to find a gathering place maybe find some people to replace the farmers or find the group of cultists, see a bit of how the average person regarded the fraternity and that regard merle that kind of thing sorry if it was a little slice of lifey or slow burn, that seemed the best way.)

(i just wasnt sure what to have prepared. Whatever one of those leads you decide to run down, let me know, we'll play it out)

After a while of watching the clothes wash then dry. (how many credits would that take?) Merle changes back into his robes and heads out looking for anything that might show where Gamma went after he came in like another possible gathering place or event that could have been subverted for recruitment.

Gamma was arrested and didn’t go anywhere but prison once he made it into the city

Merle sighs inwardly and tries to find any place that might be a collection of disenfranchised people trying to put off going home or to the prison as long as possible.

From the previous investigation reports, we know that the music scene in this side of town is a hotbed for anti-government activity

Merle would look for some kind of music shop, or people playing music loudly even.

There is a large record shop on this street with a basement sound stage that people sometimes visit at night

Merle headed into the shop on the lookout for any interesting posters and a record player.

There aren't going to be any posters that say CULT MEETING HERE. You're going to have to do some investigating and talking to people you realize, as you enter the shop/

Merle walked up to the counter looking for someone who seemed like they worked there. (edited)

There is someone working behind the counter who works here. They look bored, because they're working here

"Hey, are you going to have any live shows on the stage tonight?"

“There’s one tonight. First one since the raid so should be a good turnout”

"Who's playing, what kind of sound?"

“Does it matter? It’s something to do. You know the underground scene. Full of anger and yelling and percussion. Especially since the raid. Lots of people got reason to be upset at the government”

"Yeah I guess not, well any records you could recommend to hold me over until the show? I was thinking of picking up a player and some albums so I wouldn't feel so cut off the next time I couldn't make it to any shows."

He recommends a few from different genres and the conversation goes on for a while until about an hour before the show, then they close the shop to prepare for the show

Merle buys everything he reccomends and a player besides then looks for somewhere close to spend the hour.

(anything you want to do in that time?)

(I was thinking of heading back to where he lived but I wasn't sure if that'd be too directionless?)

(for the hour and then coming back I guess? )

(yeah maybe just skip ahead and do it after?)

Merle returns home and is faced with the enormity of the dust and lack of care since he has been gone for several months. Returning to the site after an hour, there is an opening act playing in the underground stage below the shop. The staff is still here, now ushering people below after collecting 10 credits from them

Merle paid the credits and went in. Taking in the people and the setting almost as much as the music. (made sure to take the credits off of the sheet) (edited)

There are no doubt sympathizers or actual breach cultists here. It's enough fun right now, and it's time to begin looking for them in the crowd

Merle looks over the crowd trying to see if there is any group of people he could insert himself into.

There’s several groups dancing and listening to the music. One of the groups are especially chatty among themselves

Merle walked over to the group trying to listen in a bit so he could join their discussion.

They're discussing some of the problems the locals are havng with the neighborhood, and the Peacekeepers being heavy handed in enforcemnet

Merle interjected at a quiet moment. "I suppose you heard about the massacre happening outside the walls as we speak? Fake amnesty pamphlets. Lured in at least 15 farmers and killed them right in front of me. None of them armed just trying to live peaceful lives they'd been promised in the walls."

"No way, you've been outside the walls? guess that makes sense with the antlers, Bet you get stares all the time:

"Yeah first group out and all, though that was a pointless cluster fuck filled with sociopaths. Less stares than you'd think. I admit one is just my magic but a mismatched set seemed more fun."

“What’s it like outside the walls. We heard some things. People get in and out sometimes. Not many though. Peacekeepers shut down the main route “

"It's rough dangerous, but 0e9ple have carved out a life, there are several groups, but also those changed by exposure to the storm and turned to raiders. The second biggest group is the Fraternity of the null. I've heard there are also some homesteads surviving on their own."

“City should be destroyed. Haven’t done a damn thing to cope with this” one of the partygoers says idly

"That's a little extreme there are parts of it I'd keep if I'm honest, but trying to bring back the old days is a forlorn hope. We should be out there understand the storms and roaming the planet freely, once everyone has mobile belts it could happen. Make the best of this planet live with it instead of trying to fight it for every inch seeing anyone who survived outside as enemies. The main risk outside of that is the termies. You want to fight against the oppression here the best way is to keep an open mind and be tolerant. Violence as a last resort. That's what the alliance wants easy enemies they can have the peacekeepers put their jack boots to. Make it more complicated, harder for people to feel comfortable fighting yiu or rooting against you. There's no way we can beat them with force of arms and who wants to play their violent game anyway. I say doing it got it benefits us is best." Merle laughed and rubbed the back of his neck. "Sorry about the rant, it's just something I get a bit worked up over. Them trying to rig the game from the start. If they can turn people on themselves, they've already won."

“So what do you think you should do? Got a group looking for a new leader. Might be able to swing us

"Well we did lose our farmers, but the main thing would be getting you out safely, and without reprisal. I wouldn't want you to come with me just to have you die out there or before we leave town."

"Oh, we don't want to leave. We think the city government just needs to change"

"Ah, hmm you'd have to be careful with the current regime they seem to be of the round people up and get rid of their problems all at once type. So forming an official block or protests might be hard without painting targets on your back. I'd still say trying to make sure people know you're not violent is important and that you want to make things better for everyone. I think they'd be more hesitant to just kill you if it would make them look really bad, but that's a big risk to take. Do any of you have any ins with the current group even something small like government jobs? Maybe wolf in sheep's clothing would work better. Keep your beliefs but get close, even if it's just as an aide or something?"

"There's a few of us, Working for the mail, and some low level civil offices. Hard to get anything official out of them, though"

"It's a good start still, this kind of wind bag like people interested on their work, just be careful not to overplay your hand while showing interest. Present facts, no agenda so people can see the truth of things and decide fir themselves not much else you can do until the movement is bigger or if they go too far in a wholly unpopular level sadly. If it does come to fighting I'll try to keep it out of the city. Anything like that I feel they'd just use as propaganda anyway."

"We would not be able to stand up to the PEacekeepers anyway. They have the weapons we do not"

"You've been stopped from arming yourselves even for basic self defense?"

"There is nothing we can do to stand up against armored personnel carriers, tanks, planes...what good is a rifle when the Peacekeepers have that much firepower"

"Hmm, no one among you has taken to working with the peace keepers have they as an officer or otherwise?"

“They won’t listen. That’s what I keep saying”

"Well not to people they see as beneath them, perhaps. Please don't take that as a slight, I only mean not everyone believes kn the equivalency the alliance would teach. Any idea where their orders might be coming from?"

“Headquarters like a normal military organization “

"Interesting. I'll have to look into this headquarters. Thank you all for the information and conversation you've provided. Do you usually come to concerts here? Maybe I can yell you how it goes."

“Usually. Nothing much else to do”

"Excellent, what about you all, do any of you have your own bands?"

They do not

"Hmm do you all go to the council meetings?"

"We listen to them, or watch if we are at home. Councilmeetings are only for senior government officials"

"Right. Well you should try snd listen to the next one, I'm going to bring up the peace keeper thing. Try to look into the Crack down as well. Is there anything specific I should know about?"

"Nothing that hasn't been on the news already"

It seems they’ve provided all they can and finding the source of the kill on sight orders is now leading you to the peacekeeper headquarters in the middle of the city

(Would this be before or after the congress or sort of both, sorry out of time stuff confuses me. )

(Sort of both)

03:41

(Though reading over the congress i dont see any place where this is going to contradict what you're doing there)

1

Merle enjoyed the rest of the concert putting off heading to the peace keeper headquarters as long as possible.

The show eventually ends with more calls to rise up against the government and take back the city. No one seems interested in taking action tonight

Merle idly wonders how close these people are to an actual revolt, and how it would go if it were truly a question, but overall tries to enjoy the music as the even draws to a close. He said his good byes then made his way to the head quarters of the peace keepers. Taking the time to walk around it a bit before entering marveling the outside and casing any exits in case he were to need them.

There is one set of main doors into the fortress like building that the public can use, two guards stand outside a parking lot that is attached, and you'd have to go through the headquarters to get there. Several bikes and a few armored cars are parked there now, the PEacekeepers do not have many vehicles

Merle went into the main head quarters taking in the main base and looking for a floor sergeant or someone who could direct him to the higher ups office.

There is a desk sergeant behind the large divided counter, working on reports and occasionally stopping to type a quick reply to messages on his computer. The daily life of work continues for them

Merle would walk up to him and smile. "Hello, my name is Merle and I'm coming from the council. I was hoping that I could speak to the commanding officer available get a debrief about peace keeper activity, make sure resources are being used as best they can no one's lives are being put at risk in unnecessary patrols, and of course I want to say thank you for your service. If you had any opinion, or are feeling overworked I would appreciate anything you could tell me as well, you must see everything working the front desk."

"From the council?" He takes a moment, and seems to verify this somehow. "Alright, third floor, corner office, follow the blue path ocne you're off the stairs. The under-commandant will be able to meet with you"

"Thank you, and here is my contact information if you think of anything." Merle pulled out a notebook and scribbled down his name and compad number and passed it over to the sergeant before giving him a professional nod and heading up the stairs to the under commandant's office.

The commandant is a portly man, though because of desk duty now you can tell. He is missing an eye and half his face is burn scarred with the crusty purple/red flakes of a severe victim. He has given life and limb in service of dremlas, and seems dutiful. He invites you to sit, wordlessly - waiting to hear what this meeting is about

Merle bows before taking his seat. "Firstly I wanted to say thank you for your service and for taking this meeting. Your sacrifice and dedication to the city are not in question. I'm hoping you can help me get to the bottom of this as much as anything. I know you've probably heard the news and possibly received complaints about peace keeper activity, I'm curious if you think the uptrend in crime or attempted crime stems from anything in particular, or if it's just a case of slow news day or something like that."

"Uptrend in crime? Do you have some specific examples?" he asks. You can see him opening some report referencing software so he can try to corroborate what you're about to tell him

"The most specific example I have is the recent capture of the former head of the fraternity of the null trying to cause insurrection in the city, though there has been mention of citizens being annoyed at the presence of peacekeepers in some of the more disenfranchised neighborhoods. I was hoping you could tell me more about the reason for this and any other new initiatives that might be causing dissatisfaction with the peace keepers in general, such as the false amnesty program."

"The false amnesty program was drafted by the intelligence agency and approved by the city under council as a way to drag the militias and cults out of the woods. The ongoing hunt was too slow, we believe one agent was killed and the others had either abandoned the work or turned traitor. "

15:11

"There needed to be a continuation policy "

"Work like that isn't done over the course of a few months. Besides things took more of a turn, the scope of the work was too small. No one is dead at least last I heard and no one is a traitor. I tried to debrief someone but was directed to the council. The false amnesty program undermined my bid for leadership of the fraternity. It seemed an easier way to direct them away from the city, and possibly toward our common goals while finding out about them, but I've been sabotaged at nearly every turn. You understand why I would need the upmost discretion in discussing this mission as it's deep cover, and they have people inside the city."

"The false amnesty program killed terrorists. It killed people who would see this city turned into a breach zone. We'll do it again, and again, until the threat is ended"

"I understand dehumanizing the enemy, but that just serves to turn our side into monsters as well. You realize the only ones who trusted it were the non combatants, farmers mainly looking to avoid having to fight at all, guess what? It made them martyrs, it only helped to mobilize and embolden the worst elements, which I'm not around to quash as I had to come here to correct the current operations. I understand what you were hoping for, but this is the problem of taking action without actionable intelligence, but it wasn't your fault, you were given incorrect reports, and orders. Anyway it seems like it's something to discuss with the intelligence agency and under council. Besides the arrest of Brother Gamma and the closing of that entrance to the city have there been any other unusual police actions in that section of the city? Possibly searching for splinter cults or things of that nature? Again I don't hold you or the peace keepers at fault. I just want to know why people might have become disgruntled towards the city."

"Searching for splinter cells is not unusual, it is the normal set of Peacekeeper operations when tips from concerned neighbors come in. A breach cult operating anywhere in the city successfully would be a disaster- especially if they achieve their ultimate aims. Dremlas would be obliterated- and so would the millions of people who live here."

"I understand that, hostility against Dremlas won't be tolerated. I'm curious why citizens would be chaffing under peace keeper actions. As far as I am currently aware any such cult operations inside the city were abandoned with the capture of Gamma. There was some talk of attack, but the groups were too splintered for that." That's part of why I'm trying to investigate make sure the city is safe, and eventually return and embed back into the larger group, take control of it. It's what I can do to keep Dremlas truly safe. I'm not a great fighter, I will sacrifice my life and live beyond the city making sure they don't become a problem, and making sure I can quash threats before they happen. The open hostility doesn't suit that though. So I'm talking to you, and who ever else was involved trying to see if I can quell that initiative. Stop the talks of rebellion looking for remnants of a group that was already excised from the city."

"Those who don't udnerstand the true nature of this group or planetary politics feel the patrols., the searches, and the occasional violence when a cult is discovered is autocratic, and that the government wants to keep people in the city on purpose. This is not the case, settlers have gone west already, along the stable-highway another agent has helped develop. "

19:36

"But the slums, the poorer wall districts, and some select neighborhoods in other parts of the city are refusing to accept the truth- or may be led astray by misinformation campaigns- it would not surprise me to learn the cult is using that as a tactic"

"I'll look into it, but I think it's just usual growing pains, people are cooped up, and the cult took advantage of already brewed dissatisfaction. With the people I met I tried to direct it to the right place. If they're unhappy they should bring it to the council, or run for office. Nothing is gained by violence against our own people. It's the same I feel I know you and the others who take your office aren't opposed to sacrificing yourself or committing violence, but if we can stop it or redirect it, that feels the better course for me. Their numbers are few, but they are dug in. The real problem is the termies. Sooner or later if we don't do something or find a way to cure them. They'll be at our door or attack the less guarded settlements. Moving on. Could you please tell me the status of Brother Gamma. I feel like his continued imprisonment is vital, and would like to make sure he is still being held, possibly interrogate him or converse with him. Possibly see if we can root out anything still in the city or other entrances, or whatever knowledge he might have."

"He is being held, questioning has not yielded any information yet, and the council has not signed an order allowing us to use telepathic methods to pull the secrets from his brain. I suspect if he holds out mcuh longer they'll have no choice but to agree"

"Would I be able to question him? Perhaps I could leverage my position with those outside of the city. Though I don't know how far he will trust me. I doubt it could hurt anything. Has he been in contact with anyone besides interrogation officers in his time here?"

"He has not. Unless you're a telepath you won't get more than we did"

"You say that but I'm his successor, he might talk to me. If you're set against it though I won't press you, you've been professional and you would know best."

“If you think you can get something out of him you’re welcome to waste your time

"I might as well. So where would I need to go to speak with him and the other two agencies?"

(Intelligence I thought was the only one. Who was the other ?)

(the under council, maybe they're technically not an agency)

(Ah okay. Theyd all be in the same capital building )

(where would brother gamma be? I'd assume in a prison or jail or holding cell or something rather than the capital?)

(Hes in the capital

(ah sweet one stop then lol)

"Did you have any other questions for me?"

"Well is there anything you would like me to ask or look into while I'm conducting this investigation?"

They will take any information they can get, since he has not provided any

"Alright if you would give me your contact information I'll try to report back if I find out anything important in my conversation with Brother Gamma."

A sleek contact card is passed into your hand but he has nothing further to add for the momen t

Merle bowed to him. "Thank you, I hope this meeting will have been useful for us both and possibly allow for future collaboration."

If you get actionable information from Gamma, you get the sense that you'll secure what you want from him

Merle righted himself and left the man's office with a wave heading out of the peace keeper's head quarters and making his way to the capital.

At the prison, you're asked to turn over any weapons, but they must have spoken with Peacekeepr command, because they know why you are there, and who you are there to see

Merle hands over anything that could possibly be used as a weapon. "This might be a stupid question, but was he left with anything or do you know if he could still use magic or psychic powers in there? When we first met he sort of absorbed a person, and it's stuck with me." Merle shivers a bit. "I'm not backing out mind you just want to kniw what I'm up against. Also will I be able to take a compad or scanner in with me? Maybe pick up something and I was thinking of recording the conversation."

"You'll be able to review any recordings made from prison systems after. We require everything to be turned over. We also need to disclose to you that in the event you are somehow taken captive, we will not negotiate for your release, or your release in exchange for the release of another prisoner"

"That's fine I doubt I'll be taken captive, and I guess I'll turn everything over as long as I receive my personal effects back upon my departure. Do you know if the prisoner knows he's being recorded?" Merle started to take out anything else and his pack giving over the more innocuous items. (edited)

“I am sure he can assume. It would be standard for anyone incarcerated “

"Alright, well is there anything else I should know before I head in?"

They dont seem to have any additional pointers

Merle nodded to them and headed into the prison making his way to where he would meet Gamma.

Gamma is cuffed to a table and is wearing a hood so he cannot see or be seen, having met the man before however you can tell that it is him. He stiffens slightly as the cell opens and you’re let inside, knowing someone is there but unable to see who

"Can you hear me Brother Gamma, do you remember me and know who I am?"

13:34

Merle took a seat across from him trying to tell the condition of him and how he had been treated.

He seems to be thinking about who it could be. Robbed of his sight, he is less sensitive than he was. "Say something else. You sound familiar, but I cannot place it"

"Well you did save my life after you blew up that tower, made quite an impact."

"You.." he says, reflectively after a moment. "Yes. I see now that saving you was a mistake"

"Why do you say that? Did I have something to do with you getting captured? I've been at the compound up until now, trying to keep the Fraternity from killing each other. I even subdued that psychopath when he started killing people. Helped stop an attack by the termies. I might have failed to stop some of the death in the civil war, but I devoted myself to the Fraternity. If you could see me, you could see I have the marks of making a pilgrimage." (edited)

"And yet you stand in the headquarters of our enemy, as a free man. I cant help but wonder what bargain was struck"

"No bargain, before I was one of you I was one of them. I see myself as a bit of both, and more importantly they do. Hopefully that gives you all the explanation you need. As you know it's not just us in on this conversation."

He sighs, and opens his palms in a "say what you came to say" type of gesture

"Well, you are stuck here for now, and though their idea was noble in thinking of freeing you. I fear it was foolish and poorly thought out, and would likely be the end of the Fraternity, especially following some recent infighting. I was hoping you could help me reunify our order, by endorsing me as a candidate for leader in your stead. Share some advice or words for them, tell me anything I might reflect on while still in Dremlas."

"They're never going to let you walk out of here knowing you're going to go back out into the wilderness to unify an enemy of the city. You really are out of your mind"

"Well, they haven't stopped me so far. So it seems crazy like a fox. Or maybe they realize what I'm saying is true, and the storm is something that needs to be studied. They know they've done things that were wrong. Now I'm going to ask you a hard question, but is there anyone in the city that I should know about. Know if you tell me here they'll likely be used as leverage and good faith information to get the city to ease up on us while I unify the Fraternity. I am not a lapdog, I just know that the full force of the city is strong and they're aching to use it. I'm a realist who would see the Fraternity grow without having to hide. Do you know soon there will be space travel again. I think this is something the great minds of the Fraternity should be on board with. That's another crazy goal though if I'm honest most likely, but people with boring goals get boring results."

"I've been incarcerated for months now. The cell i came into the city to contact was either arrested or killed at the scene. I don't know if anyone else has come through since then, but if the Fraternity is as bad off as you say, I don't think anyone would"

"Me either, though they mentioned it. Some tried though not to free you. There was a false amnesty program that I'm looking to abolish. So I agreed to ask you some questions. If it's as you say hopefully the city will take us at our word that the cell is found. They might bring in psychics to double check. My next steps are going to the agencies that put it forward. Convincing them it's both pointless and will no longer be effective, but who knows. If nothing else I've informed the council of what happened and they can make their own judgement if it's as you say and I don't make it out of the city, but again I doubt it. I have my own ways if things get rough."

He is listening, but doesn't have any comments to make about this. From prison, there is nothing he can do

"I was serious though when I asked for your endorsement. I think it would go a long way, the pastor respects you as do many others. I wish I would have been more firm with the farmers, they might still be alive." Merle hung his head before looking at the hood. "I think it would do a good deal to having your personal guard pick a side too, I think their neutrality didn't help matters. Though the past is the past. I only hope I'm able to get back quickly enough or send a message and keep things stable and moving in the right direction."

“I won’t give it. If I can’t be in charge nobody should and it doesn’t seem like you’re here to break me out”

"Well alright, it's up to you if you want to rot in here, and by the time you get out the Fraternity might have collapsed, though I shouldn't be surprised by that kind of selfishness, honestly I felt the direction you took the fraternity in to die off without you was tenuous at best." Merle stood and made his way to the door knocking on it. "Good luck to you Brother Gamma. I won't waste anymore of your time."

(I’ve had about zero idea what’s been going on this home time)

(in which regard? Sorry if I confused you neko?)

(What you’re hoping to accomplish I guess or what you want out of him. Didnt really get into any cult secrets or any of the things that make interrogating him worthwhile

(Well he implied he wouldn't give them up anyway and that he was the one true leader. There didn't really seem like a good chance to ask for cult secrets.)

Merle is asked to leave , Gamma will not endorse anyone but him for official leadership of the clan. Dremlas Peacekepeers are waiting outside the cell to arrest Merle too, as he’s now identified himself as a high ranking member of a terrorist organization

Merle held up his hands laughing as he surrendered talking mostly to himself. "You know it's ironic I knew coming here was a mistake, but here I am, technically I'm not even a member of the Fraternity never finished my induction. Well arrest me or shoot me whatever you plan is I can't fight you I'm unarmed and too tired after this day, besides I don't want to fight with the peace keeper's anyway."

Merle is thrown in a cell next to gamma, who does nothing but laugh all night long

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