Stars Without Number

Nekosmash 15-Jun-20 09:21 AM

"Lucas. Wake up, scouting orders just came in" The runner raps his knuckles on the door twice, and throws a compad with a message on it into the room for you to catch. "Looks like you're heading north. Group's meeting in the undermountain sea deck in an hour"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 15-Jun-20 09:23 AM

Lucas groggily wakes up, not very happy to be rudely awakened

He clumsily reaches for the 'pad, wanting in his head a cuppa tea, then reads it out loud (edited)

Nekosmash 15-Jun-20 09:41 AM

Lucas. You are to report to the undermountain hangar in an hour. Commander Mazzio would like an expedition to head north to the landmass, to see what plants and animals might be there. Plan for possibly hostile flora or fauna

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 15-Jun-20 09:44 AM

"Well, looks like I need to get ready." Lucas then grabs all his gear and heads towards the hangar, first stopping for a detour at the cafeteria, for some tea

Or Life Nectar, as he called it

(Is there an armory I can quickly get a better gun?)

Nekosmash 15-Jun-20 09:49 AM

(You get what you started your character with for the first mission. If you have credits left over then you should have bought a better gun)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 15-Jun-20 09:50 AM

(Yeah, I should have sold my useless secure clothing. My pistol will be good enough, thanks.) (edited)

Nekosmash 15-Jun-20 09:52 AM

(if you need to buy/sell anything, we can do that before you go, but we're not going to do free gear)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 15-Jun-20 09:56 AM

(That would be unfair. If you knew of the top of your head, what would be the appropriate sell price for secure clothing, as I'm away from my book)

Nekosmash 15-Jun-20 09:58 AM

(300)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 15-Jun-20 10:11 AM

(I'll sell the laser pistol as well and get a combat shotgun and 60 rounds, 330 credits)

(295 left over)

Nekosmash 15-Jun-20 11:31 AM

Changing your weapon and selling your uniform has thrown some credits in your pocket, and the expedition prepares to get together. Five others have been assembled, along with a hydrofoil to cut across the wide expanse of sea between here and your destination. A woman with a tall staff an hair shaved close to the scalp seems to get getting ready to brief them, and nods gently as you join the rest of the team

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 15-Jun-20 11:35 AM

"Hey there" Says Lucas with overflowing charisma

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 15-Jun-20 12:28 PM

"I hope I didn't interrupt your briefing to-be"

Nekosmash 15-Jun-20 12:49 PM

"No, please youre just in time. We're heading north on this expeditions, to find a route through the mountains, to the floodlands northwest of the mountain keep we currently reside in. "

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 15-Jun-20 01:30 PM

"Perfect! Anything we looking for specifically?"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 15-Jun-20 02:13 PM

(Are we talking about that delta looking thing north west?)

(In what looks like a U)

Nekosmash 15-Jun-20 03:13 PM

(Yes. That’s the spot)

(The edges of it are that purplish color)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 15-Jun-20 04:58 PM

(Ic, are we looking for anything specifically or just exploring?)

(You know, just for a main objective)

Nekosmash 15-Jun-20 04:59 PM

“Your mission is to find a path through the mountains, and see what is on the other side of them, as I’ve said. I’d expect to be gone for a couple weeks if not longer”

“Once a safe path is found, we can begin making roads and landing strips. Further trips will be easier and faster “

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 15-Jun-20 05:01 PM

"Sounds great. How long do you expect the ride to be?"

Nekosmash 15-Jun-20 05:03 PM

“I had just said a couple weeks in total for the expedition. Two days by boat. The rest of the time depends on the path you chart and how fast you find a way through”

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 15-Jun-20 05:03 PM

(I knew how long it was, don't wanna get on a bad foot with that person. I was trying to figure out downtime IC)

Nekosmash 15-Jun-20 05:10 PM

(This is wild country and you’ll be under threat or busy nearly the entire trip. I can’t promise any downtime)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 15-Jun-20 05:16 PM

(For the boat trip there, ofc the jungle is a dangerous place)

Nekosmash 15-Jun-20 05:18 PM

(Cant promise downtime for that either)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 15-Jun-20 05:34 PM

(Oh, well lead the way)

(Are we dealing with dangerous fish in the way there?(mothballing, PAFO))

Nekosmash 15-Jun-20 05:43 PM

The expedition prepares to head out, on one of the two advanced hyrdofoils in service to SCAF. The vessel has a deck level, and a below deck galley and bunks, along with a common room. The others begin climbing aboard , stowing their gear, while the pilot and engineer prepare to get underway

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 15-Jun-20 05:46 PM

Lucas follows suit, stowing his pack in the lockers

He keeps a dose of lift and his shotgun on him though

Nekosmash 15-Jun-20 07:21 PM

The foil heads out of the sea-expedition deck, hollowed out of the bottom reaches of this massive mountain. After a few minutes of low power as you clear the wake zone, the foil begins picking up speed, two skis extending from the bow to help prop it up in the water

the engine is quiet below deck, and in the pilot house at the front of the vessel

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 07:58 AM

Lucas heads to go and make himself some relaxing(no actual benefits) tea, and goes and asks some of his crew members if they wanted any

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 08:03 AM

The crew is at duty, and unable to enjoy things rigt now as the foil makes its way across the ocean. Schools of fish gather in the wake of the ship, several of the larger variants leaping out of the water before diving back in

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 08:04 AM

(Is there any fishing rods on ship?)

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 08:13 AM

(yes)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 08:13 AM

Lucas goes and grabs a rod, then casts it

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 08:16 AM

(survive/wis)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 08:18 AM

(5)

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 08:21 AM

The afternoon goes on, and the ship must be moving too fast for you get a bite

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 08:31 AM

Lucas sulks a little, and heads down to the lower level to try and make some ant-tox

(Poison’s a bitch)

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 08:40 AM

you're called for watch on the upper deck as you begin trying to get your equipment set up, and are unable to work on any of the anti-tox right now. As night falls, they drop anchor and the floodlights come on, scanning the water around the ship to ensure you are alone.

Dark shapes under the waves scatter as the beams of light pass over them

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 08:44 AM

Lucas keeps diligent watch, wanting to go to sleep, and knowing he’s gonna need some tea in the morning

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 08:54 AM

During the night, as you sit alone on the foredeck, and another sentry is at watch in the back, it sounds like there is some kind of rippling or gentle splashing in the water, close to the hull of the boat

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 08:57 AM

Lucas grabs his shotgun tight, and begins to slowly walk towards the bridge, holding any structure bolted down near him

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 09:10 AM

There is another splash against the hull as you begin walking that way

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 09:15 AM

Maybe it’s just the waves

Maybe theres no scary sea creature

Lucas inches closer, braving a peak in the direction

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 09:18 AM

For a brief second, you make direct eyeless contact with an expressionless golden mask in the water, though the metal is dulled and corroded by the saltwater. There is a splash of fins, before the figure vanishes below the waves

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 09:20 AM

Wow, that was weird. Maybe I will see them again. I won’t tell the cap’n for now

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 09:29 AM

As Lucas heads down to the crew stairs, there is a heavy thump on the foredeck, and the sound of another splash into the water, this time, harder

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 09:29 AM

Lucas looks done with life

He heads back up there, and to the side, where he looks over, more confident now

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 09:31 AM

As you make your way to the front of the ship, you see the creature again. It looks like it might have been a merlon, once, though its face has been replaced by this golden mask, and the body looks like it is diminished, the skin stretched thin over elongated bones. The guard who had been standing here is gone, possibly the splash

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 09:32 AM

Lucas heads back a bit, clenching harder to the railing. “Why are you here? Do you need help?”

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 09:33 AM

The mask cocks its head sideways slightly, its sword resting in a relaxed pose in front of its body. It is 5m away, and seems to just regard you silently

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 09:34 AM

Lucas grabs his shotgun and points it at the merlon, though aiming at a non-lethal area

“Please, talk to me. What did you do to that guard?”

(Looks like you took my suggestion of dangerous fish too far)

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 09:36 AM

The sword arm whips slightly, spattering the salt-water and blood mixture onto the deck, leaving faint red dots behind. There is a faint rasp coming from behind the mask, but no discernable words

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 09:39 AM

“If you do not respond, I will be forced with lethal force”

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 09:42 AM

The creature makes another sound, again a rasp, and raises its sword

(you have time to react before we do anything else)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 10:10 AM

“I’m sorry, you dont leave me much room” (17, dmg 4)

(No burst)

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 10:12 AM

(right, its a shotgun)

The creature is struck, rotted guts and other viscera falls across the deck in a stinking tide, and the sword arm is severed, sending the gleaming blade sliding across the deck. The creature falls, mask tumbling from its featureless face, and lodging on the deck, before the body begins dissolving as though burning from within in purple flame

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 10:19 AM

(My shotgun can burst fire)

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 10:20 AM

(is it a shotgun or a combat shotgun)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 10:21 AM

Lucas steps forward and grabs the mask and the sword , then looks at it disintegrate in a moment of silence (edited)

(Combat shotgun)

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 10:21 AM

(the mask and sword stay behind, they're solid objects)

The mask is smooth, aside from the head scales and crest typical of the merlon. There are neat lines of script on the back, tightly packed together in perfect rows, though its in a language you cant read

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 10:22 AM

Lucas keeps it nonetheless, as a souvenir of his travels

He also inspects the sword, which brought death opun his comrade

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 10:25 AM

The blade is curved like a scimitar, the edge slightly rusted, just like the mask, though clearly sharp enough to cut

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 10:32 AM

Lucas sighs, and goes to the captain

She has to know, he guesses

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 10:33 AM

Another of the guards is heading out of the pilot house as you come around to the stairs up, seeing the mask and sword in your hand. "What happened, I heard a gun go off, I was just coming out to look"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 10:36 AM

“Yeah, some fish creature came up on deck and killed someone on duty. Good thing i had my shotty with me”

“Oh, and don’t bother looking for it. It evaporated in purple flame”

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 10:38 AM

"hostile creatures in the ocean. This is something Lord Mazzio will want to know about, same with the captain, Come into the pilot house and tell her yourself, I'll take post with you"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 10:39 AM

“Thanks”

Hmm, I wonder I’f they’ll let me keep this badass looking sword and mask

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 10:43 AM

The captain is on the phone with engineering, but hangs up when you come in. From what you're able to overhear, it sounds like she's making plans to get the anchor up and get the ship underway. "I was about to bring us to battle stations, what happened out therE?

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 10:45 AM

“Well, I had to shoot a hostile humanoid fish creature, and he died and evaporated in a purple flame. We have one less crew member, and I have 2 cool souvenirs”

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 10:45 AM

"You may not get to keep them. Lord Mazzio should hear about this, and see the evidence. We're going to turn around and head back to the mountain, there might be more of them under us"

"And other expeditions might not be aware of the danger"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 10:47 AM

“All right.” DANG IT. I had to open my mouth

Two awesome things that will probably never find their way to my room

“Will the expedition be made again?”

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 11:21 AM

"Possibly. Perhaps through other means. We may need to work with a teleporter, or go in by air"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 11:26 AM

“Well, let’s get going then”

Lucas retreats to his quarters, searching up a merlon translation app on his compad

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 11:28 AM

(without knowing the actual language by selecting it at creation, or the downtime spent, you wouldnt be able to read or write the language. Not that it helps in this case, since its not Merlon on the mask)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 11:29 AM

(Good to know)

Lucas generally lazes around until they get back

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 11:30 AM

(3xp, 5000 credits)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 11:35 AM

(Level 2, took connect 0, administer 0, sneak 0, and program 0, along with diehard foci)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 12:07 PM

(Ready to continue)

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 12:25 PM

The hydrofoil docks in the undermountain hangar, open to the sea. A small frigate, under construction for several days now looks to be nearly complete , and is several times bigger than your own small scout. There is a security detail waiting, along with the same female functionary who had briefed you just a day ago. She is evidently waiting on some kind of detailed report of what happened out there. As the docking ramp lowers and sailors tie the boat to the pier, she waits patiently

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 12:26 PM

“Hey there” Lucas says flirtatiously

“How’s it going?”

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 12:29 PM

Her face wrinkles like she has just swallowed something unpleasant. "Report, please. The captain radioed ahead and said there was some trouble. You're the only one who saw the creature, and have two items in your possession from it"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 12:29 PM

Am I that ugly?

“Yes, I was the only one who came in contact and did not die”

Lucas begins walking, signaling her to walk and talk

“It was a humanoid fish creature, and it wore this gold mask. It used this sword, and it did not talk, only rasping. It evaporated in a purple flame” (edited)

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 12:37 PM

She motions to examine the mask and sword "I'd like to see the objects in question. I may be able to identify them or shed some light on their origin

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 12:37 PM

Lucas hands the objects over

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 12:39 PM

The sword is given a few test cuts through the air, and the blade is still able to make the air sing, despite its age and the beginnings of mistreatment. The mask is something she has to stop and think before touching, and when she does it is through a glove. "this writing on the back, you said it was a fish creature? this isn't merlon. I speak every language common to the sector and this does not match anything"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 12:39 PM

“It was definitely a fish creature”

“Maybe it was an illusion”

Lucas reaches the cafeteria, and goes straight for the tea maker

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 12:42 PM

(so youre just leaving the conversation?)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 12:43 PM

(No, I will make tea while talking. A major point of my character is his love for tea)

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 12:52 PM

She looks annoyed at the random detour, and her patience seems to be wearing thin as you just 'have' to have your tea right now. "I doubt an illusion killed one of your fellow crew members and left behind two very real objects like these. They're aged too, like they've been in the water for some time. "

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 12:55 PM

“I am very sorry for being stupid, if that’s what you want me to say. I have no idea what it was, but I had to shoot it, or it would kill me”

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 01:02 PM

"You made the right choice. Any time you fire to protect yourself, or protect the team, the use of force is justified. I need to show these to Lord Mazzio. You may get them back, but it may not be soon. He is going to want more than me coming into his reflection chamber with a wild story about masked fish before he takes any kind of action"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 01:17 PM

“Alright. I hope it goes well.”

“And again, sorry for being stupid”

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 01:52 PM

(Is the scene over?)

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 02:28 PM

(Alright. That’s fine)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 02:29 PM

(I don’t want fine, your not forcing me to do anything. Any downtime?)

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 02:30 PM

(Thats depends on what you want to do next. They’re going to make another try at scouting that delta but if you have your own ideas now that you’ve seen a bit of the planet we can do what you have in mind)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 02:36 PM

(I still wanna explore the Delta. I don’t have the money or supplies to make a submarine yet)

(I did want to ask how long a trip to anywhere would be in a microlight, and if it can land on water)

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 02:43 PM

(I don’t know off the top of my head if they have enough mass and power to mount water environment fittings. If it does it’s probably all you can mount)

(And i will hex overlay the map and we will figure out distance. I didn’t make this one so I have to do a few things to it)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 02:47 PM

(Dont feel rushed, kinda spitballing in my head. Also, doesn’t the water fittings make it into a submarine)

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 02:53 PM

(No. You have to have that and sealed environment )

(Water means it can act as a boat. Operate on water)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 03:00 PM

(Ok, thanks) (edited)

(How much time until that spaceship is operational?)

(Or until a mission comes up)

Nekosmash 16-Jun-20 03:08 PM

(What space ship)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 16-Jun-20 03:11 PM

(No, I thought the frigate was a spaceship)

(Just put me in coach, anything is fun. I really liked firing a gun that hit it’s target)

Nekosmash 17-Jun-20 05:53 AM

A day passes as Lord Mazzio debates the best course of action forward, before your expedition group is called for again, to assemble in the same place. This time, the group is going to go by air, a path through the mountains will for now remain undiscovered.

Upon landing in the shadow of the mountains near the delta, the scouting expedition will gather what materials and explore what it can before supplies get too low, or the level of danger becomes too high

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 07:13 AM

Lucas heads to the place of meeting, excited to explore and try out medicine on his comrades

Nekosmash 17-Jun-20 07:15 AM

A new soldier has been chosen from the many recruits among the SCAF armed services, and he looks to be young, barely old enough for enlistment. He seems to be welcomed by the rest of the group, and the functionary is waiting for everyone to assemble so she can give her briefing

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 07:16 AM

Lucas walks towards the new recruit

“Hey there”

Nekosmash 17-Jun-20 08:37 AM

'Hello" he says, stepping aside to make room for you to come in. "Alright everyone" the coordinator says "We're going to do a quick briefing so you all know what to expect out there"

"This time you're going by air. We're going to forget about a sea route through the mountains for now until we get some answers on what might be below the water here. Lord Mazzio is taking a personal interest in that. Our goal is still the delta region, working from the island chain, and working our way back in toward Mount Hope here. Gather plants, small species of animal you can reasonably keep alive, mineral samples and anything else you might see of value. A flight will meet you nightly to bring back anything you find, and airlift any wounded, but these are going to be empty flights on their way out to you. Our supply situation is thin, and we can't indefinitely support an expedition"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 08:44 AM

Sounds good. I wonder how we are supposed to get samples without any sample containers

But I’m excited to get back there

Lucas then heads to the airplane

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 10:23 AM

(So basically the 100, but we have supplies, we are not starting a colony, and we need to get samples)

(Can we just send scanned biopad data back to hq?)

Nekosmash 17-Jun-20 10:35 AM

(they cant do more involved testing if they have no samples)

(I also dont know what 100 means)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 10:36 AM

(Ok, and it’s a tv show)

(Called “the 100”)

Nekosmash 17-Jun-20 10:37 AM

The cargo lighter groans slightly as everyone climbs aboard. there are a pair of grav rucks and cargo containers set aside on them, to be handed out when the ship comes in for landing. The ramp shuts, and there is a gentle gliding feeling as it launches from one of the hangars carved out of the mountain, heading northwest

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 10:38 AM

I wonder what types of animals are going to be in a delta?

(How many people are there?)

Nekosmash 17-Jun-20 10:38 AM

(still six of you)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 10:39 AM

(Sorry, forgot)

Lucas heads to his quarters for an expectedly short flight, and sets down his stuff. He quickly tries to make one dose of anti tox, as poison is a jerk

Nekosmash 17-Jun-20 10:44 AM

the flight is too bumpy to allow you to work, and the cargo compartment of the tiny craft too cramped with other members of your team and their gear. Creating anything is impossible right now. The flight is three hours , and deposits you at the coast along the southern boundary, between marshy river delta and dry wasteland. There is little in the way of vegetation where you set down aside from a few loose or stubborn pieces of grass

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 10:46 AM

Lucas inhales the air, not really enjoying the scenery. He begins to talk and organize with the others

“Hey, does anyone want to get a fire going? I was thinking about going to get a preliminary round of samples, and maybe some meat”

Nekosmash 17-Jun-20 11:04 AM

"We're going to push north toward the greener areas and those islands, we're not stopping until evening. Every day we're out here, the chance for an accident or something else gets higher"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 11:07 AM

“Alright, let’s get walking”

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 11:27 AM

Lucas follows the leader reluctantly, as exploration can take place anywhere

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 11:58 AM

(So I heard sample get converted into research points, does that apply here?)

Nekosmash 17-Jun-20 11:59 AM

The clinging white dust of the plains sticks to boots like chalk as you begin moving, the column of soldiers kicking up a small rooster tail of dust behind them as they walk. A green boundary of longer swamp grass gradually grows closer, and once you get to within a kilometer you can even hear the cries of birds and the chirp of bugs carried on the wind.

(SCAF doesnt yet have a voice in the larger council)

(but will have a pool of research points to add once they do)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 12:00 PM

Lucas clings to his shotty, the only thing he trusts here.

He keeps an eye out for any interesting flora, and maybe a place to stay

Nekosmash 17-Jun-20 12:55 PM

The grasses themselves look fairly mundane, as you begin moving from dusty plains into the actual swamp grass. the birds and bugs are all very talkative, and loud now as you finally enter the green belt. Soil becomes wetter under the group's heavy boots, bubbling and slushing if feet are not set properly when stepping down. The squad leader takes a moment to collect a soil sample here, along with a second, to take a dropper of the muddy water here

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 12:57 PM

“Are we going to make camp somewhere? Because if so, we should do so before we get any deeper into a muddy swamp”

Nekosmash 17-Jun-20 12:59 PM

"Whats the hurry to camp trooper Abast? It's the middle of the day"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 12:59 PM

“We can’t camp in a swamp, not if we like things dry. Beyond here, things only get wetter”

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 01:27 PM

“It is a swamp, after all. And we need a base of operations, if we plan to be out here for weeks

Nekosmash 17-Jun-20 01:38 PM

"We need to go much further in to do any kind of reasonable scouting. We're not going to set camp right where we land. We've hardly seen anything.

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 01:39 PM

“Right-o then. Lead on”

I’ll just follow our almighty leader

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 01:51 PM

Hope I find some medicinal plant

Nekosmash 17-Jun-20 06:43 PM

Heading into the brush and swaying grass, under the noon sun, the birds and bugs suddenly go silent

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 06:45 PM

Lucas gets into a defensive stance, knowing that something that can make everything go silent

Is something dangerous

Nekosmash 17-Jun-20 06:55 PM

(notice/wis)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jun-20 06:56 PM

(5)

Nekosmash 17-Jun-20 07:06 PM

Three figures, each about 15m from the group rise out of the grasslands around you. The one standing before the group has a sword drawn, and the one on each flank has a bow, knocked with a barbed arrow ready

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 18-Jun-20 07:59 AM

Lucas curses under his breath, and swivels to face the one of the ones with a bow before taking a shot (edited)

(Attack 8 dmg 11)

(Burst)

Nekosmash 18-Jun-20 08:24 AM

The shotgun racks, and although the creatures had not attacked yet, this seems to start the confrontation The scattershot misses, and the lead with the sword is now sparring with your squad leader. The two bowmen fire, each of them hits a squad member in the detail, an arrow lodges in the small of the back for one, and in the upper leg of the other. (20/5 and 20/6) The captain and her opponent duel, unable to land a blow on one another, and the squad returns fire, wounding each of the bowmen but not enough to kill

(back to you)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 18-Jun-20 08:28 AM

(Dmg 11, hit 2)

(Remaining in spot and repeat fire)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 18-Jun-20 10:43 AM

(Is there anything around me where I could seek cover?)

Nekosmash 18-Jun-20 10:46 AM

(no, just long grass) The shot goes wide, the scattering of the shotgun pellets sprays dirt and gravel everywhere, but the archer remains standing. The archers fire again, and the two wounded are killed, an arrow punching through an armored helmet, and the other falls, this time one of the shafts strikes his flak plate through the heart. They both tumble to the ground, weapons falling from slack hands. Your leader and the sword bearing figure cross blades once again, though neither is able to score a hit on the other.

The survivors from your scout team return fire, and the two archers each topple over, masks falling free from featureless faces, and their bodies once again begin to dissolve

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 18-Jun-20 10:48 AM

Lucas, relieved that the archers are dead, runs to a position where he can shoot the enemy and not the friendly battling him

Nekosmash 18-Jun-20 10:48 AM

(its -4 for shooting into close combat)

(on your to hit roll)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 18-Jun-20 10:49 AM

8-4, 7 dmg)

(So 4 hit in total, with 7 damage, hope I didn’t hit her)

Nekosmash 18-Jun-20 11:35 AM

The shot goes wide, the kick of the gun and the close range sending the barrel bucking violently in your arms the sword bearing creature makes a perfect swing, sinking its blade deep into the squad leader, and diving her down to one knee with the momentum. From her crouched position, the holdout cavity in her arm opens, and the integral laser carbine blows a clean hole through the creature's head, mask included. It topples over, next to her as she falls onto her back, though she is wounded where it merely dissolves away

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 18-Jun-20 11:39 AM

(Is she mortally wounded, needing stabilization?)

Nekosmash 18-Jun-20 11:41 AM

(she's not mortally wounded, but shes heavily injured)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 18-Jun-20 11:42 AM

(How would I apply a dose of lift?)

Nekosmash 18-Jun-20 11:44 AM

(roll 1d8 plus your level of heal)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 18-Jun-20 11:45 AM

(9!)

Nekosmash 18-Jun-20 11:46 AM

(she takes a point of system strain which doesnt really make a difference for anything you need to worry about, and will heal 9 health over the next five minutes)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 18-Jun-20 11:46 AM

(Yay!)

Lucas walks off, excited with the successful application of his training, to go and round up all that was dropped to present to the leader

Nekosmash 18-Jun-20 12:51 PM

She has recovered after a few moments of rest, and looks down at the small pile of masks, the sword that has been pulled from the chest wound, and the bows. "So the bodies stay behind, but the weapons stay here, along with their faces." she stretches, and stands up. "strip what you need from the dead, and get the grav rucks open. We're going to take them with us until the cargo flight comes tonight"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 18-Jun-20 01:21 PM

Lucas takes whatever is on one of the squad members who have died, then pausing for a moment of silence

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 18-Jun-20 03:11 PM

He then opened the grav rucks

(whatever they are) (edited)

Nekosmash 19-Jun-20 06:14 AM

(basically a platform held up by two poles like a stretcher, but theres a small grav-plate on the bottom so it floats on its own and its easier to carry)

Nekosmash 19-Jun-20 07:12 AM

The bodies are wrapped in ponchos for the afternoon, and the surviving four of you make your way further into the grassland. The masks and weapons are wrapped, and kept close by. The same jagged script is on the back of each of them, a language that is unknown to everyone so far

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jun-20 07:59 AM

Lucas, though still sad about those lost, keeps a look out for his objective. If not, what would be the point of coming here?

Nekosmash 19-Jun-20 08:02 AM

(d10 for me, lets generate whats in this hex)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jun-20 08:12 AM

(Do you need me to do anything?)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 19-Jun-20 08:16 AM

(yes roll 1d10 and put the result in here)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jun-20 08:16 AM

(4)

Nekosmash 19-Jun-20 08:35 AM

The bio scanner begins vibrating gently as it detects something different enough from the background foliage here, 300m ahead in a clump of swamp trees

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jun-20 08:36 AM

Lucas creeps forward, alert so that if it’s hostile, he can defend himself

“I think I found a potential sample up 300m.”

Nekosmash 19-Jun-20 08:51 AM

“Yeah. I see it too” she says reviewing the scanner she also carries. “Looks like in those trees. Let’s keep our guns up and eyes open. We don’t want another ambush”

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jun-20 08:54 AM

Lucas keeps his gun trained on the trees, and continues to walk towards the potential sample (edited)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jun-20 02:58 PM

(Thinking about getting a drone once this “paycheck” comes in)

Nekosmash 19-Jun-20 07:36 PM

The return beeps louder until you get to the edge of the clearing, only 50m away now. Within, something breaks sticks and cracks them underfoot though you cannot see what it is through the thick treeline

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 20-Jun-20 08:21 AM

“Stay alert! Something’s moving!” Lucas inches forward, curious about what the sample is

Nekosmash 20-Jun-20 10:29 AM

Something growls low from within the trees

It is small, about the size of a dog, though clearly feline

2

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 20-Jun-20 11:09 AM

In the best baby voice Lucas can muster, he says “Come here, little cat”

(Can I use talk/cha for this?)

Nekosmash 20-Jun-20 11:16 AM

(It would be survive/wis since it’s animal handling )

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 20-Jun-20 11:17 AM

(3)

Nekosmash 20-Jun-20 11:46 AM

)if you’re a pure expert you get a re roll once per scene)

(Not sure if you want to use it on this or not)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 20-Jun-20 11:46 AM

(Yes)

(11!)

Nekosmash 20-Jun-20 07:01 PM

The creature still has its hackles up, and it on guard, but stops growling. It does not retreat from you , but does not seem eager to advance

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 21-Jun-20 07:15 AM

Lucas slowly advances towards the cat, with no malice. His hands are low, under the cat, symboling peace

Nekosmash 21-Jun-20 07:35 AM

It backs up several steps to keep distance with you as you approach it, it’s tail is low and ears still flat, trying to keep its profile the same. It emits a low growl, and then stops to stand it’s ground

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 21-Jun-20 07:39 AM

I just wanna hold you. I’m not gonna do anything to you, I promise

Lucas continues his approach

Nekosmash 21-Jun-20 07:39 AM

The creature bounds backwards on powerful hind legs and vanishes into the undergrowth

The scanner reading fades as it runs, getting further and further away

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 21-Jun-20 07:59 AM

“DAMN IT!”

“We were so close.”

“Did anyone scan the creature or get any data?”

(Ic And ooc?)

Nekosmash 21-Jun-20 08:01 AM

“Some pictures and a short recording. Better than nothing.”

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 21-Jun-20 08:01 AM

“All right. When’s the flight coming?”

Nekosmash 21-Jun-20 08:02 AM

“An hour from now. I guess it’s as good a time as any to finally camp. You’ve been itching to since we got here”

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 21-Jun-20 08:03 AM

“I just wanted to make sure everyone was safe, and could rest”

“Anyone injured? I’m a medic”

Nekosmash 21-Jun-20 08:03 AM

No one is hurt right now. The sergeant was healed earlier and the remaining guards weren’t hurt during the scuffle

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 21-Jun-20 08:05 AM

Lucas scans around him for more stagnant samples, expecting nothing

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 21-Jun-20 08:24 AM

(If not, I want to begin working on some healing powder)

You know, I think one of those things that fly around could help me. I’ve heard that they can even do medical stuff

Drones, their called

Nekosmash 21-Jun-20 09:49 AM

(The animals were the resource in this tile. You can make 250 credits worth of frontier medicine in a night but depending on what you make the checks could be different)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 21-Jun-20 10:20 AM

Working on 24

Of healing powder

(So 24 checks?)

Nekosmash 21-Jun-20 10:32 AM

(No just one , but if you were mixing what drugs you make we would need to test for each kind)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 21-Jun-20 10:50 AM

(

)

(7)

Nekosmash 21-Jun-20 12:06 PM

You run out of supplies after six more healing powders are made and it becomes too dark to safely explore. The cargo lighter sets down and in light of 33% of the squad now out of action, the squad leader calls everyone together for a meeting

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 21-Jun-20 12:07 PM

Lucas walks towards the meeting, happy he could at least get 6 powders

Nekosmash 21-Jun-20 06:50 PM

"Well, as you all know, we're down 1/3 of our strength already, and have precious little to show for it. Lord Mazzio's military doctrine allows us to retreat for now if we wish, since we've taken losses, but if we decide to stay, there's a chance we could return home another time with an even bigger breakthrough. I'm not going to decide the level of risk we all plan to take together myself, but we either stay together, or leave together. I think all of you at least deserve a choice"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 21-Jun-20 06:52 PM

“I think we should stay. I can make medicine as needed, and we have water, shelter and food.” (edited)

“Let’s come back with something useful”

Nekosmash 21-Jun-20 07:04 PM

for now, the group decides to stay another night. the bodies and existing samples are loaded aboard the cargo flight, and it takes off, heading back to Mount Hope for the night. Watches are determined, with Lucas and another solider taking first, the squad leader and remaining solder the second.

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jun-20 08:02 AM

Lucas stays up, with his bioscanner with him, to see any threats or samples nearby

Nekosmash 22-Jun-20 08:19 AM

There is nothing nearby that the scanner has detected, and watch ends before anyhing comes out of the bushes. Morning comes after you're relieved from watch, and the second patrol also has no contact. For now, these mysterious creatures seem to be unwilling to make further attempts on you

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jun-20 08:20 AM

Lucas takes a nap, to be ready for action later in the day (edited)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jun-20 08:47 AM

When Lucas gets up, he prepares himself for another day of exploring

Nekosmash 22-Jun-20 08:51 AM

the plan today is to move further into the marshlands and hope that other resources or at least more samples can be collected. The four of you break camp, and prepare to head out into the wilderness. (everyones at full health since the injured were killed in the skirmish yesterday)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jun-20 08:52 AM

(Perfect)

Lucas walks on with the people in his squad, gun at the ready, and medicine in his quick to get pocket

Nekosmash 22-Jun-20 11:35 AM

(d10 again, as we move into the next hex)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jun-20 11:40 AM

(4) (edited)

Nekosmash 22-Jun-20 11:43 AM

a small beep begins flashing on the survey scanner, as the ground underfoot becomes truly swampy. A metallic deposit is nearby, as you come to the edge of a roaring river. The scanner has the sample on the other side, somewhere in the treeline out of view

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jun-20 12:02 PM

“Well, guys, I think we have that sample we wanted. The only problem is that it’s on the other side of this river. Any solutions?”

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jun-20 12:34 PM

(If possible, can I get an inventory of all the equipment we brought?)

Nekosmash 22-Jun-20 12:35 PM

(all you have is whats on your character, your squadmates need their own gear)

"We could try to ford it with a raft. We're going to end up downriver of an immediate crossing'

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jun-20 12:38 PM

“Alright, lets try to build a raft. Anyone especially good at survival shit?”

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jun-20 12:48 PM

(Should I roll a survive/int?)

Nekosmash 22-Jun-20 12:50 PM

(yes please, add a +2 since you're going to be under the guidance of someone in the squad whos trained)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jun-20 12:51 PM

(7)

Nekosmash 22-Jun-20 01:20 PM

some lengths of timber are chopped, and tied with vine, and rope from the packs that have them.

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jun-20 01:22 PM

“All aboard!” Lucas says jokingly as he gets on the raft

(Pilot, im guessing?)

Nekosmash 22-Jun-20 01:35 PM

(not for you, but the squad leader will roll)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jun-20 02:30 PM

(Alright, ready for anything)

Nekosmash 22-Jun-20 02:53 PM

The (8) squad leader does well. She is a cool presence at the rudimentary rudder as the heavy raft sets off into the stream. Foaming white water billows over the sides , as the raft plunges nose first into the current. Everyone is soaked as you make it to the other side but Is otherwise unharmed

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jun-20 02:56 PM

Lucas gets off, soaked but otherwise fine. He then keys up the scanner for the exact location of this metal deposit

Excited for a chance to prove himself

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 06:33 AM

within the trees ahead, 300m away, the scanner continues to ping, and the return gets stronger. The survey scanner is trying to determine what it might be, but there are too many obstacles in the way for a clear read.

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 08:09 AM

"Okay guys, at the ready! We're only 300m away. There is, however, not a straight path to the objective. Keep your eyes peeled."

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 08:34 AM

Lucas walks towards the deposit, shot gun up, but hping he doesn't have to use it

Over the last few days, I've benn assaulted with so much death. death that I caused, the death of others, and more. What if there was a way to fight were I didn't have to kill someone? What if I could just restrain them?

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 08:36 AM

Long vines drag almost to the ground as you make your way within the trees. None of them actually touch, but several are close. They're a thick green, with strange blue streaks running through them, that seem to wriggle slightly when seen

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 08:40 AM

"Hey, can someone sample these vines? They look interesting, definitely something i' d look into"

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 08:41 AM

They do not listen, as you are not the squad leader and have no rank over them, but she draws her long machete and looks to be thinking of hacking away at it for herself. She is cautious, circling the vine a few times, before setting down her pack

"filtration gear. goggles and atmofilters, just in case"

"If you didnt pack them, stand back"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 08:42 AM

Lucas stands back, a little sad about his oversight of packing essantials. He'd have to buy a survival kit for next time

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 08:54 AM

(Maybe the plant could be a future chain?) (edited)

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 09:45 AM

There is a splash of blue sap as the squad leader neatly cuts the vine with her long blade. It sprays everywhere, carpeting her uniform, and the vine writhes on the ground as though it is a severed limb.

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 09:48 AM

Lucas flinches a little as it flops on the floor, then grabs the end of it with a cloth over his hand

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 09:48 AM

(evasion save)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 09:52 AM

(Success! 17 v 14)

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 10:13 AM

the vine lashes at you like a scorpions stinger, but you weave aside quickly enough to avoid harm

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 10:15 AM

"Woah!" Says Lucas as he drops the vine. "Looks like it could be interesting. What do you want to do, Squad Leader?"

Looks like a whip of some sort.

(How would one study it? Can we clone tissue/ plants?)

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 10:25 AM

(not really the tech for cloning and most cloning is considered maltech)

She steps on its 'head' keeping it from stinging, and hacks away at it again with her blade. It stops wriggling

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 10:27 AM

(Has the head stopped?)

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 10:28 AM

(whole thing is not moving anymore)

(unclear if plant or animal or both)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 10:30 AM

Lucas tries to grab the head to study the poison. It could be a powerful tool if used correctly. Lucas then stuffs the vine and a sample of it's "blood", then continues on. The vine is a great discovery, but any medals could mean something great

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 10:34 AM

(you dont know its poison)

(or what it is at all)

"Alright, lets think. Getting close to those trees is going to get us lashed to pieces. The vines clearly don't like being touched"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 10:35 AM

(Yes, but for my character, stinger = poison)

(Any psychics here?)

"Do you think we can distract the vines? or maybe burn them?"

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 10:38 AM

(no)

"Got anything on you to burn them with?"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 10:38 AM

"We can start a fire, then get some torches rigged up."

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 10:41 AM

"Alright, good idea. Lets check the creekbed for driftwood or anything we can dry out. Dry grass too, dry leaves, anything we can use for kindling"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 10:42 AM

"Alright"

(9, if you need a check. +2 was added)

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 10:49 AM

(no check needed, what you were asked to do was simple enough, i just wasnt sure if there was more than one word coming)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 10:50 AM

(

)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 11:07 AM

(No, no more dialogue here. Curious if we find some nullmetalum)

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 11:27 AM

It is mid afternoon by time a fire is made, and enough torches are created. "Alright" the squad leader says, putting her helmet back on. "Here we go" She takes one of the torches and hurls it into the thickest part of the leaves she can

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 11:32 AM

Lucas follows suit, throwing his torch in a slightly different patch, hoping that they don't cause deforestation

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 12:32 PM

The tree lights after a few more torches are thrown, and the tree writhes as though the branches are snakes.

"This might take an hour or two to come down"

"Keep your wits about you everyone"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 01:04 PM

Lucas just sits, searching his compad for a gentle yet firm way of subduing enemies

(Ic finding about gentle way)

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 01:04 PM

(no)

(you just 'learn' about a super rare martial art?)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 01:06 PM

(Well, I didn't think it was rare. I was going to take it as a foci next level, and wanted a way IC to know about it)

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 01:07 PM

(no different than what we did with Proceus, have to find a trainer, or something like that. A space google search for advanced level skills like this isnt really an appropriate way to justify that)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 01:09 PM

(Well that sucks. Kinda wanted to stay on planet for a while longer)

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 01:09 PM

(we havent really done anything back at base)

(so we cant say for sure whos around and who isnt)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 01:10 PM

(True, I have to explore the base a bit.)

Lucas watches intently as they burn down the forest

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 01:18 PM

The flaming vines eventually go slack after some time, and the tree crumbles as the flames bore it into two flaming halves. dark branches crackle under the flames, though the generally wet ground keeps things from spreading

"Alright, lets step careful, we should be able to find a way through now"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 01:21 PM

Lucas follows the leader through the ashes, content to let her go first

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 04:12 PM

crossing through into the charred zone, the scanner pings harder, showing whatever it is, is buried just a meter down, easily within reach with hand tools or even hands

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 06:09 PM

Lucas begins to dig, not really worried about looking civilized. There was a new discovery just under his feet, and he was gonna be the one to find it

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 06:11 PM

the others begin helping, sifting away the thick black soil, before unearthing the first nugget of cobalt

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 06:13 PM

Lucas picks it up, and immediately inspects it carefully. Was it something valuable?

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 06:22 PM

(it would be considered a rare ingot, if we're talking about trade goods)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 06:23 PM

(Perfect! Can we mark the location to like a beacon, get heavy equipment to dig it up?)

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 06:24 PM

(the faction turn if they choose the build asset action, they can make a production center here)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 06:26 PM

(I'll report it to Lord Mazzio. Let's call the lighter with a sample)

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 06:30 PM

(SCAF has a polity channel under polity faction channels, go ahead and make a report there so when we do faction actions, we know what you found, its likely more things will be discovered before month end)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jun-20 06:34 PM

(All good, ready to go to the ends of the earth finding a gentle way instructor, and maybe a badass chain)

Nekosmash 23-Jun-20 06:37 PM

(3xp, 5000 credits) The cargo lighter comes in, and for now, the squad is ordered back home to Mount Hope for some well deserved rest

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 07:45 AM

Lucas kicks back and relaxes on the ride there, already thinking about selling his shotgun and ammo. It just seems so violent, exploding of limbs and organs. He'd get something a bit less lethal

(So the plan is to get a drone, then find an instructor of gentle way, and then maybe do a team up exploration mission with a scaf member?)

Nekosmash 24-Jun-20 07:59 AM

(Vukan is about to go out, you'd be able to buy your gear but not find the instructor right now)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 08:04 AM

(No, I'll go for the instructor. It kind of gives me a thrill when I can get ingredients and get weapons built with all sorts of bonuses and skills. I'll get a chain, then over time I'll build a chain collection that is unmatched.)

Nekosmash 24-Jun-20 08:04 AM

(okay, so we're not doing the group mission?)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 08:05 AM

(Not yet. I want to explore after I get that weapon, so Ic i make a better weapon. If not, I'll probably just throw it away)

(I'll grab up the next mission)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 08:13 AM

(So, for the drone, I wanted the 2,500 with stationkeeping, then 4,000 enviro power, 250 observation suite, the medical one, and the 500 cred bomber one.)

Nekosmash 24-Jun-20 08:18 AM

( so 2 drones total?)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 08:19 AM

(No, one. I meant the medical fitting, and the bomber fitting)

Nekosmash 24-Jun-20 08:19 AM

(okay what frame is this on, does it fit within the mass/power needed to fit all that?)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 08:20 AM

(The one that comes with station keeping, that's 2,500)

(Think it's called the sleeper)

(And the medical support fitting is 2,000 creds)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 24-Jun-20 08:29 AM

(So you want a Sleeper drone with the following fittings: Environmental Power, Observation Suite, Medical Support and Suicide Charge?)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 08:29 AM

(Yes, but no suicide. There is a bomber fitting for 500 creds that can store and drop two grenade size charges)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 24-Jun-20 08:30 AM

(9,250 credits and it all fits on the Sleeper drone neko)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 08:32 AM

(

)

Nekosmash 24-Jun-20 08:34 AM

(thank you)

A drone is found and signed over to you after a day of refitting in Mount Hope's small factory.

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 08:36 AM

Lucas dances around a little after recieving his new buddy, and proceeds to load it up with the healing powders he made, plus one stunchem he bought(From darkness visible, 200 creds, end of book)

He then remembers about the one mention of a gentle way of subduing attackers, The gentle way. In all his searching about it, he only found one post about the summary of it's history. He'd need to buy a chain, and find an instructor to teach it to him.

(Selling shotgun for 300, buying chain for 6)

Nekosmash 24-Jun-20 08:44 AM

(that is not available, it is specialist equipment)

(the chems)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 08:45 AM

(Oh well. How about the chain?)

Nekosmash 24-Jun-20 08:45 AM

(chain is fine)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 08:46 AM

(Yay! Now where should I start on the quest for an instructor? Guide me, oh leader)

(Also, chain is medium primitive, or something different?)

Nekosmash 24-Jun-20 08:48 AM

(medium primitive, and you have to try to find the answer, but we can do a connect/cha to try to get a lead)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 08:49 AM

(Alright)

Nekosmash 24-Jun-20 08:50 AM

(drone added to your sheet)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 08:52 AM

(Thanks, and 10)

Nekosmash 24-Jun-20 08:58 AM

It's rumored that Lord Mazzio has a large collection of books, holovideos, and other knowledge cores within the mountain, and has occasionally granted access to people deserving of it, but his permission is needed.

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 09:00 AM

Lucas gulps. Lord Mazzio was the on top, for a reason. He was powerful beyond dreams, and anything powerful is scary

Lucas musters the courage to go up to Lord Mazzio, and passes through his quarters, suspecting he knew Lucas was going to be there

Nekosmash 24-Jun-20 09:02 AM

A man with short black hair, wearing a leather and fur lined coat, and dust goggles on his head appears before you, out of the literal thin air. "That's far enough, You're Lucas, the scout that found those rare materials out in the plains. And you found the first of those masks"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 09:04 AM

"Oh, yes!. I am so sorry Lord Mazzio! I mean no badwill. I was just wondering if I could take an educational peek through your library. You see, I am on the search for a martial art called Gentle Way, but it seems very rare."

Nekosmash 24-Jun-20 09:20 AM

"To fight with a chain and bare hands. It's a difficult study, but it seems that protecting ourselves is something we're not going to escape, even here. There's a datadisc I'll allow you to copy, but the knowledge must remain with you, and not be distributed to those who have not earned it"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 09:21 AM

Lucas' face instantly lights up. "Thank you Lord Mazzio! As soon as I learn it, I will burn it for safekeeping. I once again thank you for this."

Lucas then quickly copies the disk, then scurries off to his quarters to learn this incredible doctrine

(How exactly would I do this?)

Nekosmash 24-Jun-20 10:28 AM

(do you have the lvl up , xP wise? Is this a foci you could pick now?)

(I'll have to make the line on the sheet for you)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 10:30 AM

(I got it, but I'm level 3, so I can't. I did finish a goal I had to get a drone)

Nekosmash 24-Jun-20 10:30 AM

(I awarded an extra 3 for it, your current XP value has been updated)

(okay, so we cant really do anything with this right now

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jun-20 10:31 AM

(Can I hop on that Vukan trip? Looks like you had a contingency and added a medic)

Nekosmash 24-Jun-20 10:32 AM

(fine)

Nekosmash 01-Jul-20 11:30 AM

(You didnt have any skill points banked and just used six of them, your level up is incorrect)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 01-Jul-20 11:30 AM

I had 2 banked

(I had 16 points from the beginning, should add up)

Nekosmash 01-Jul-20 11:33 AM

(you should have 12 skill points, not 16)

(you've only leveled up 3 times)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 01-Jul-20 11:33 AM

(my bad)

So 4 things have to go away

Nekosmash 01-Jul-20 11:35 AM

(4 skill points worth of things need to go away, it costs more to level stuff the higher you go, so as long as you shave off 4sp

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 01-Jul-20 11:35 AM

(Fixed. Administer went to -1, shoot to 0, connect -1, talk -1)

(Yeah, that's what I meant)

Nekosmash 01-Jul-20 11:38 AM

(one of the -1 can go back to zero)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 01-Jul-20 11:39 AM

(Alright, ready for adventure!)

(I also want to program my drone so that if it scans me and sees my health is low, or a bullet hole, etc., I want it to inject me with one dose of healing powder) (edited)

Nekosmash 01-Jul-20 11:43 AM

(it cant do those things automatically, its a main or move action from you for a drone to act. Main normally, move if you have drone controller cyberware implanted)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 01-Jul-20 11:44 AM

(Alright, thanks. I just though I could program it to do it automaticly"

Nekosmash 01-Jul-20 11:47 AM

(no, you cannot)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 01-Jul-20 11:47 AM

(Okie dokie)

(And where can I get phosphor tattoos?)

Nekosmash 01-Jul-20 11:48 AM

Returning to Mount Home, the beast is taken to SCAF labs, along with the other samples and captive small cat. The location of a possible settlement site near fresh water is also copied from your survey gear. Presumably, Lord Mazzio has plans for the shape of that project and will be starting it soon.

(No one in Mount Home can make one right now, as there are hardly any workshops running that arent focused on day to day living)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 01-Jul-20 11:50 AM

(Thanks)

Lucas steps out onto the dock and looks around him. He tries to see if there are any medics here, or anyone making medecine.

He thinks that he could set up shop for cheap medecine, so he can make money while supplying his comrades with medical supplies to survive the harsh outdoors

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 01-Jul-20 02:32 PM

But to do so,he wants to find a nice, green plain, and some new medical herbs to do so. His pursuit is rather slow going, not exactly a rush, so he'll assist anyone who needs a medic on their journey in this world. (edited)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 01-Jul-20 07:02 PM

(Basically saying that I can do anything, if you were planning any expeditions)

Nekosmash 01-Jul-20 07:05 PM

(we have several ideas between scaf chat, the polity meeting, and smaller ventures, so if youre planning to just join something its duplicating work for me to set you up on a mission and then set up another one you;ll abandon it to join)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 01-Jul-20 07:06 PM

(Alright, I'll wait for a mission to be set up)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 01-Jul-20 07:14 PM

(I will also buy a mag pistol and a medium advanced weapon for 460 credits)

(Med weapon is a katana, for reference)

Nekosmash 02-Jul-20 05:49 AM

(sounds good, sounds like we're still getting some plans together,w e will start sometihng soon)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jul-20 08:56 AM

(Lucas Goes to level 4. Hp 17 - 28. Stab - 2, fix -0)

(I will replace my chain with a med advanced one, and add one 1+ to hit to the katana and the chain)

Nekosmash 17-Jul-20 09:36 AM

(Those are modifications you're adding?)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jul-20 09:37 AM

(Yeah, I'm working out the needed skill right now)

(Alright, 1 customized mod for the chain and the katana)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jul-20 10:03 AM

(Also purchased gecko anchors and 1 demo charge)

Nekosmash 17-Jul-20 10:04 AM

(Make sure you deduct credits if you haven't already)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jul-20 10:05 AM

(I have. And I am taking gentle way as a foci)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 17-Jul-20 10:05 AM

(It also takes 1 week per fix skill level to install mods to gear)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jul-20 10:06 AM

(Oh, that sucks. I'm only lvl 1, so 2 weeks?)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 17-Jul-20 10:07 AM

(Its the fix level required for the mod. So customized is Fix-1, therefor 1 week for each item you are putting it on) (edited)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jul-20 10:10 AM

(That's what I meant. I'm putting it on 2 items, so 2 weeks)

(Would it just montage, or would it happen during downtime?) (edited)

Nekosmash 17-Jul-20 10:40 AM

(we'd fast forward, or it can be done during downtime, your decision)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jul-20 10:40 AM

(fast forward, If I can stay with vukan)

Nekosmash 17-Jul-20 10:48 AM

(Depends what he does, Hes got 4 days of recovery from his cyberware himself, but hes still finishing it 3 days before your project is going to be done

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jul-20 11:07 AM

(Well, Up to him I guess.. Thanks)

Nekosmash 17-Jul-20 11:32 AM

By the time you finish your weapon modifications, Vukan has taken a group to Unn and is hard at work in his own personal endeavors. SCAF will not commit to sending another vessel there right now , leaving you to find something of your own devising

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jul-20 11:41 AM

Lucas requisitions a ship to go to safa and phio on an exploratory trip

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jul-20 02:06 PM

Unexplored planets so close to bergasa scared him. Also, there may be something worthwhile on them, that would prove worthwhile to Lord Mazzio

Nekosmash 17-Jul-20 04:07 PM

A corvette has been assigned to you and is needing to know where you plan to visit first

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 17-Jul-20 04:13 PM

Lucas plans to go to Safa first

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 18-Jul-20 10:23 AM

As it's on the way to phio

Nekosmash 18-Jul-20 08:51 PM

(did you need to replace your drone or do anything else?)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jul-20 10:06 AM

(Yeah, If I could order an exact replacement that would be nice)

Nekosmash 19-Jul-20 10:21 AM

(you've got the money, i think it was 10k?)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jul-20 10:24 AM

yup

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jul-20 10:32 AM

(9500 more like it)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jul-20 10:41 AM

(Already subtracted the money)

Nekosmash 19-Jul-20 11:29 AM

The drone is stowed aboard the ship though your previous medicine load was destroyed with the old one. Ingredients are hard to come by until proper farms have been set up, and with almost everyone away from Bergasa it could be some time. The corvette has a full compliment of crew on board though you and three others are the only ones in an expeditionary role.

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jul-20 11:42 AM

(What's the rest of the crew for?)

(Anyway, for downtime I'll go pilot)

Nekosmash 19-Jul-20 12:41 PM

(To fly the ship, clean it, protect it, serve the stations, and some redundancies since its a warship and people die in combat)

(alright, add a day of downtime to pilot for yourself)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jul-20 12:42 PM

(alright)

Nekosmash 19-Jul-20 12:53 PM

Atmosphere: Breatheable mix Temperature: Variable cold-to-temperate Biosphere: Human-miscible Population: Several million inhabitants Tech Level: TL4

Safa is an ice world, the only planet in its system, at a distant orbit from its sun. There is enough warmth on the surface for some life to cling onto, but most of the world is an endless tundra waste with occasional habitation domes or frostlocked settlements fighting for the right to exist on its surface (edited)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jul-20 12:57 PM

Lucas tells the Pilot to set down on the surface, and begins to set up his gear (edited)

Nekosmash 19-Jul-20 01:02 PM

(what gear are you setting up?)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jul-20 01:05 PM

(My drone, and other stuff. It was really just a place holder)

Nekosmash 19-Jul-20 04:45 PM

(lets pick an actual landing site)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jul-20 04:49 PM

(Old arena ruins, though everything looks super cool!)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jul-20 05:28 PM

(If people are struggling to survive, why are there lodges, like a ski resort? Just a curiosity question)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jul-20 05:35 PM

(True, just made that connection)

Nekosmash 19-Jul-20 05:48 PM

(you dont have any data , no scans were done, and we sort of just landed)

Landing at the old arena ruins, you see that some sort of gladiatorial combats were done here. There are numerous grounds where pavilions, tents, and other shelters would be set up. Public cook houses, and other utilities are also ruined nearby. Arming racks once held weapons and it looks like there is even a garage that once serviced vehicles , but anything of value has long since bee n stripped away

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jul-20 05:59 PM

Lucas wonders at why would gladiator fights happen, even though they happened a long time ago

(What are the other utilities, just don't want to leave too early) (edited)

Nekosmash 19-Jul-20 06:00 PM

(cooking gas, power once, but the equipment is gone, presumably water since it hosted a lot of people)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 19-Jul-20 06:04 PM

Lucas walks up to the other people that came with him. "So guys. Do you have anything you want to look at here? I'm ready to leave if you guys don't want to see anything here"

Nekosmash 20-Jul-20 06:11 AM

"Looks like some kind of gladiator arena. Locals must have used it pretty heavily for them to build all this stuff. It looks like it was built knowing that the climate was cold too, not a case of a world suddenly being frozen like that planet in UNW territory. Tht's good information for us to have

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 20-Jul-20 08:53 AM

"Well, now that we have that, let's head off to some more populated areas. The lodges look like a good place to starts"

(I'm planning on going to the Ice serpent lodge.)

"Everyone, make sure you have weapons ready in case we meet hostiles. Conceal them if you can, though. We don't want to spread the wrong message"

Nekosmash 20-Jul-20 09:41 AM

Those who can conceal their weapons do so, hiding them under bulky winter gear. The ship takes off again, planning to land a few kilometers away from the lodge in a forested region, where it is less likely you;ll be discovered. The snow steams as the ship's powerful engines bring it in for landing, and the group emerges into the snowy woods. things are quiet and still

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 20-Jul-20 10:10 AM

Lucas leads the others to walk quietly in the snow in a single file, telling the person at the back to attempt to cover tracks in the snow. All people are advised to walk in the footsteps of the person ahead of them, continuing this behavior until the got to the lodge (edited)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 20-Jul-20 06:09 PM

(Exactly how many people do I have?)

Nekosmash 20-Jul-20 06:30 PM

(3 others aside from you, just a small scout echelon)

(Lets also get a notice/wis)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 20-Jul-20 06:39 PM

(9)

Nekosmash 21-Jul-20 05:44 AM

There animals in the woods have gone silent, and there is a crunching through the snow 200m to your west, though it stops as soon as your own small group stops. You are being stalked

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 21-Jul-20 08:07 AM

Lucas whispers. "Everybody, get ready for combat. I'm going to say hello"

In a louder voice,(but still around normal talking voice)"Hello! we know you are there. We do not come in violence, but in peace"

Nekosmash 21-Jul-20 03:13 PM

Several figures emerge from the snow to the west of you, long white capes and pelts breaking up their outline and marking them nearly invisible until your comments just now

“You’re on the land of the serpent. What is your reason for being here?”

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 21-Jul-20 03:17 PM

"For exploration. We had some idea of what was hare, but we wanted to know your culture more" (edited)

(Bluffing a little bit so they don't take advantage of me)

"We do not mean harm" (edited)

Nekosmash 22-Jul-20 06:10 AM

(advantage in what way? I'm just not sure how to play the situation based on that)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jul-20 09:18 AM

(Well, if we didn't know about them we come off as in-experienced, but If we do know, then they will respect us more, at least in my head. No idea if you want to play it out differently, or just let it go as planned)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jul-20 09:25 AM

(It was really more of a dialogue thing, not meaning to have it have big repercussions)

Nekosmash 22-Jul-20 11:24 AM

"You're trespassing on Ice Serpent Land, and you will make this dishonor right to earn our respect. We challenge you to ritual combat, one of us, versus one of you. The others will not be harmed no matter who the victor is"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jul-20 11:25 AM

"Very well. Where and when do you want this to happen?"

Nekosmash 22-Jul-20 11:29 AM

"we will make a ring in the snow, 15m in size. Our men will ring the chosen champions and there will be no retreat. What weapon do you choose to fight with?"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jul-20 11:30 AM

"My Katana"

(Do we still roll initiative?)

Nekosmash 22-Jul-20 11:32 AM

(yes)

(its still combat)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jul-20 11:32 AM

(Alright, let's go)

Nekosmash 22-Jul-20 11:36 AM

"Very well" He reaches for a longsword from his companions, and gives it a few swings before pointing the tip at you. He takes his place 15m from you, at his edge of the circle

(5)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jul-20 11:42 AM

(6)

(because of the +2 from kenjutsu)

Nekosmash 22-Jul-20 12:53 PM

(alright, well that makes you first)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jul-20 12:59 PM

Lucas attacks first, doing a basic attack, nothing flashy. (16/3)

Nekosmash 22-Jul-20 01:02 PM

You're able to draw blood, in a thin line across his chest, and he reposts, swinging down with the longsword his people favor (17/1)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jul-20 01:03 PM

(I wouldn't take damage, right? My ac is higher than that)

Nekosmash 22-Jul-20 01:03 PM

(also, did you need me to move a focus or make a line so you can take this martial art?)

(right)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jul-20 01:04 PM

(I guess I could custom add it to my sheet)

Nekosmash 22-Jul-20 01:06 PM

(you super need to, because there's a skill that goes with it, that would apply to your rolls)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jul-20 01:08 PM

(Added the foci, How do I add the skill, and what does it do?)

Nekosmash 22-Jul-20 01:11 PM

(you use your Kenjutsu skill, so when it asks if you have any modifiers when using the martial art AND katana, put a 2 in that box)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jul-20 01:12 PM

(I'll re-roll that last attack then)

Nekosmash 22-Jul-20 01:18 PM

(you would have missed even with the +2, we dont need a complete re-roll to add 2 to a result, you missed)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jul-20 01:19 PM

(Alright)

Nekosmash 22-Jul-20 01:20 PM

(20/3) your blade is turned aside, sparks rising and hissing in the snow from the clash of metal, before he gets within your guard and batters at your armor

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jul-20 02:04 PM

Lucas returns the strike heatedly (17/5)

Nekosmash 22-Jul-20 06:32 PM

23/8) He swings back, though his strokes are ragged and his breathing is irregular, his injuries are starting to show. Although badly wounded, he has not offered to surrender, and has not demanded yours

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jul-20 06:33 PM

Lucas moves to a defensive position ( the one that adds +2 AC)

"Please surrender. I do not want to kill you. Your people would get angry, and I don't want that"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 22-Jul-20 07:31 PM

(Can I do a something/cha to convince him out of fighting to the death?)

Nekosmash 23-Jul-20 10:48 AM

"To surrender is to dishonor the duel. You will be protected even if you win, and my second in command will provide you with the help you need" (13/miss) He raggedly swings back, the sword weak in his hands

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jul-20 10:49 AM

(If is hit him with the back of my sword, to knock him out, would I still get the kenjutsu bonus?) (edited)

Nekosmash 23-Jul-20 01:20 PM

(the bonus applies to hit, so yes)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jul-20 01:27 PM

Lucas attempts to hit him in the head with the back of his katana (8/7)

Nekosmash 23-Jul-20 06:26 PM

He flies Upwards at You, fist glancing off your armored plates , and sliding harmlessly to the side

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 23-Jul-20 06:50 PM

Lucas re-attempts hitting him (8/3)

Nekosmash 24-Jul-20 08:44 AM

His sword tumbles from his grasp , and he falls into the snow, nursing a broken arm and wrist. The wounds sustained during the fight have slowed him enough and his body expires, blood steaming into the snow. One of his men takes up the fallen long sword and offers it to you, before using his own to sever the defeated champions head. This trophy too he also offers

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jul-20 10:47 AM

Lucas accepts the sword, but not the head

“Why did you cut the head off your own friend?” (edited)

Nekosmash 24-Jul-20 10:55 AM

“He was defeated and these are your trophies. You have won the duel and his honor. We are here to assist you as is your right as victor”

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jul-20 10:56 AM

“Very well. We have come to explore this planet. Is there anything you would call notable about your enviroment and animals?” He motions for the crew members to take notes

Nekosmash 24-Jul-20 03:21 PM

“The jce serpent is the most cunning and powerful of them all. It is the king of our animal kingdom and we seek to follow it”

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 24-Jul-20 06:56 PM

“What exactly do you mean by follow it? How large is said Ice serpent”

Nekosmash 25-Jul-20 11:08 AM

"40 meters at adult size, more or less"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 25-Jul-20 11:08 AM

Lucas recoils a bit in surprise. “I can see why you would follow it”

“So what exactly is your lodge, and how do you follow such a majestic creature?”

Nekosmash 25-Jul-20 04:57 PM

"We are a spiritual brotherhood, made of warriors who venerate this beast

We follow the beast and how it hunts, and it makes us mighty. Other lodges follow other animals, though they are not as strong or powerful as we are

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 25-Jul-20 07:49 PM

“Very well. How are relations between the tribes? Can we explore without more combat?”

Nekosmash 26-Jul-20 10:52 AM

"I cannot say if the other tribes will accost you or not, a test of honor may be the price for walking on their land, but the Ice Serpents will not trouble you further, unless you give us cause to"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 26-Jul-20 10:55 AM

“I promise I will not. Is there a place me and my friends can stay for the night, and maybe learn more about your culture? I am fascinated with your lodge”

Nekosmash 26-Jul-20 10:56 AM

"you may stay in your ship or around the old ruins to the south, but we would not have strangers freely erecting settlements or permanent fixtures in our land"

"You have our respect, you are not one of us"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 26-Jul-20 11:41 AM

“I understand. However, would you be open to trade? I think it would be profitable for both of us”

Nekosmash 26-Jul-20 01:10 PM

"We would need to know what you are offering, but it is a possibility of you continue to conduct yourselves well"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 26-Jul-20 01:13 PM

“That is all I ask for. Do you have any known medicinal herbs in your planet?”

Nekosmash 27-Jul-20 05:59 AM

"There are some we used to treat sickness and to heal injuries if they are not serious. I expect most planets are blessed with something that can be used in such a way. They grow high in the mountains, and we cannot take you there now. Perhaps in the spring, when the snows withdraw and the paths are not blocked"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 27-Jul-20 08:36 AM

“I would love to come back here. What precautions can I take so that when I come back, no one will attack me?”

Nekosmash 27-Jul-20 11:31 AM

"Your name and likeness will be passed along the other members of our lodge, and we will return with these trophies as you've refused them. You will not have further ritual combat to walk the land unless you transgress, or insult another of us"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 27-Jul-20 01:21 PM

“Makes sense. Thank you for your hospitality” Lucas then breaks off to speak with the crew

“Anything you want to do before we leave?”

Nekosmash 27-Jul-20 01:26 PM

"We thought you were leading this expedition. What do you think, satisfied here?"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 27-Jul-20 01:27 PM

“I just want your advice. We all have different expertises. I’m satisfied, I don’t know about you guys”

Nekosmash 27-Jul-20 02:54 PM

"It doesn't look like there;s much on this planet aside from the people themselves, and even then, you saw how they were armed, swords and blackshot"

"I'm not sure what they'd really have to give us to gain aside from hiring them out"

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 27-Jul-20 02:56 PM

“Very well, maybe hiring out as mercenaries for food, supplies and weapons?”

“It would be good to establish connections with a planet so close to us”

(Basically maybe turning them into an asset, the mercenary asset)

Nekosmash 27-Jul-20 05:15 PM

(The group would have to decide to do that with your faction turn ) (edited)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 27-Jul-20 05:18 PM

(Mkay) (edited)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 27-Jul-20 05:42 PM

“Well, we should leave” he says “Let’s take off and go check out unn”

Nekosmash 27-Jul-20 06:51 PM

“We already have an agent at Unn and we shouldn’t interfere with his work”

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 27-Jul-20 07:16 PM

(Sorry, I meant phio, I’ll edit that)

“Oh, sorry. I meant Phio. Must of gotten them mixed up” (edited)

Nekosmash 28-Jul-20 07:12 AM

The team boards the ship, leaving this world behind and making passage for Phio (1 day of downtime)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 28-Jul-20 07:58 AM

(5/90 pilot)

Nekosmash 28-Jul-20 08:21 AM

Phio is a system with two planets, one is a habitable temperate world, where the other is a barren world with no life or plant matter on its surface. The local sun is bright, and the surface of the inhabited world has signs of human life in the form of large cobwebs of urban light. There are a number of satellites that have remained in orbit, though spreads of space junk also coat the orbital lanes.

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 28-Jul-20 08:50 AM

Lucas decides to go to the temperate world, one that may be host to new flora and fauna

Nekosmash 28-Jul-20 09:30 AM

(are we taking any precautions? or are we just going for a direct landing?)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 28-Jul-20 09:31 AM

(Well, is there a map for phio? Somewhere I can find a rural clearing?)

Nekosmash 28-Jul-20 09:32 AM

(there isn't a map right now no, but you're approaching the planet directly then?)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 28-Jul-20 09:34 AM

(Could you give me an example of a precaution you want me to take?)

Nekosmash 28-Jul-20 09:36 AM

(not going to scan, or try to communicate long range? just going to make a direct landing?)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 28-Jul-20 09:36 AM

(Oh, makes sense)

Lucas attempts to scan the planet for any kind intelligent society he can contact

Nekosmash 28-Jul-20 09:41 AM

(program/int)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 28-Jul-20 09:57 AM

(11)

Nekosmash 28-Jul-20 11:54 AM

There are many radio signals from the satellites to the ground, and back. It seems you can hijack a signal to broadcast a message, though there isn't a way to communicate with the ground directly

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 28-Jul-20 12:02 PM

Lucas first attempts to read some signals to get an idea of what’s on the ground

Nekosmash 28-Jul-20 12:18 PM

Most of the data being transmitted seems to be medical in nature. There are projects related to genetics, and finding "perfect ratios" being almost incessantly discussed between the various settlements on the planet. the laboratories, political ventures, and economic institutions seem to be collaborating on this, though it seems the results of the study are not planning on being shared with any but select small groups

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 28-Jul-20 12:25 PM

“This looks like an interesting planet to visit. Lot’s of genetic experiments going on here”

Nekosmash 28-Jul-20 12:31 PM

(so world is unified, all one nation, with the major components of it working toward whatever project this is, but the nature of it, and how they might react to strangers, we can't know from just the scan You can hijack a signal here to send a message if you wanted to do anything else before attempting a landing)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 28-Jul-20 12:32 PM

Lucas hijacks one signal, sending a message about if they would permit some explorers to explore their planet peacefully

Nekosmash 28-Jul-20 12:58 PM

Unidentified Explorers You are trespassing in Gene-Purity Council space, and we will not allow you to taint our planet with your filthy alien footsteps. Try to land if you dare, and you'll see just what our defenses are capable of General Montak Yau Haggar - GPC Space Command

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 28-Jul-20 01:00 PM

Lucas responds with a message about leaving, and apologizing for any trouble

To the crew. “Those jerks. Let’s report this to lord mazzio and see what he has to say”

Nekosmash 28-Jul-20 01:02 PM

"It'll be about a week or two before a message gets there and back if we send it wirelessly. It'll be faster to go back to Actala, but its up to you"

(3xp, 5000 credits for everything we did so far)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 28-Jul-20 01:03 PM

“Let’s go back, see if they need anything there”

(Thanks!)

Nekosmash 28-Jul-20 02:05 PM

(it would be 5 days in spike space, stopping back at Safe, Thorgunna, Grima, and finally Actala, if you wanted to stop at anything on the way)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 28-Jul-20 02:06 PM

(I’ll go straight to actala)

Nekosmash 29-Jul-20 06:14 AM

Entering Actala, it is clear that Lord Mazzio has been busy. Factories are being constructed on the surface, along with shipyards , defenses, and infrastructure on the planet below such as roads, bridges, and navigational assists. He does not reach out to the ship as it approaches the planet

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 29-Jul-20 09:09 AM

Lucas contacts any sort of ground control about a place he can land

Nekosmash 29-Jul-20 09:16 AM

A small navigation beacon near the facility where you found The Black Masque begins to ping, showing you where you can land

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 29-Jul-20 09:18 AM

Lucas lands there, and gets out to stretch. (Are there any people here?)

Nekosmash 29-Jul-20 09:33 AM

(Not right now) (edited)

Construction is ongoing though there do not seem to be people around. The immediate area around the facility is undergoing the most focused builds, and large breaker guns, anti ship emplacements, and endless banks of anti aircraft, and anti ground defenses are gradually being put together. The construction proceeds in fits and starts, small , incremental layers, one at a time, across the planet as far as you can tell.

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 29-Jul-20 10:38 AM

Lucas begins to walk towards civilization. The stores, houses, and factories that would make up the first major town

He also attempts to psychically reach Lord Mazzio

Nekosmash 30-Jul-20 05:55 AM

After a moment, you feel him connect with you. He does not speak first, but you can sense that he is listening if you choose to think in his direction.

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 30-Jul-20 08:14 AM

Safa is a planet based in strength, having lodges where they worship great predators. If you earn their respect through combat, then they are reasonable. I believe they could become mercenaries in the future. I was not able to land on Phio due to hostile messages.

Lucas sends the exact message he received to Lord Mazzio

Nekosmash 30-Jul-20 09:46 AM

This Genetic Purity group on Phio is concerning. Were you able to determine what they might have been working on? Any of your own thoughts on it?

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 30-Jul-20 09:51 AM

I think they are engineering humans, or they are engineered humans, and since we are not like them, we are “unpure”

Nekosmash 30-Jul-20 10:27 AM

Something to watch then, certainly.

What is your plan now?

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 30-Jul-20 10:30 AM

Well, if you do not have anything you need help with here, I was thinking about exploring more, so we know what’s around us and what we need to be cautious about

Nekosmash 30-Jul-20 10:47 AM

There is little to be done here, though if your ship is returning to Bergasa there is a delivery you can make for me.

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 30-Jul-20 10:47 AM

Anything I can do, I will do. What is it?

Nekosmash 30-Jul-20 11:02 AM

Cargo will be brought to your ship. All you need to concern yourself with is ensuring it gets to Bergasa. Others will handle it once you arrive

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 30-Jul-20 11:13 AM

Very well.

Nekosmash 30-Jul-20 11:19 AM

Is there anything else Mr. Abast?

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 30-Jul-20 11:35 AM

Nothing.

Nekosmash 30-Jul-20 11:39 AM

(alright, well the cargo will be delivered then, nothing much else for him to say )

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 30-Jul-20 11:52 AM

(Sorry, I just was catching up on something)

Lucas then takes off for Bergasa, eager to fulfill Lord Mazzio’s delivery, but wanting to know what’s inside

Nekosmash 31-Jul-20 08:53 AM

(and unless youre stopping anywhere, its 5 days back)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 31-Jul-20 09:14 AM

(9/90 pilot)

Nekosmash 31-Jul-20 11:13 AM

The cargo is taken off your hands by waiting specialists, and they thank you for the effort before leaving you, and taking the goods elsewhere within Mount Home

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 31-Jul-20 11:49 AM

Lucas dismounts the ship and begins to walk around, asking around if anyone needs help

Nekosmash 31-Jul-20 11:59 AM

(so you'

are looking for a mission, then?)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 31-Jul-20 12:19 PM

(Sure, man. Any chance to get my level up and discover cool stuff, I’ll take. One about finding a legendary weapon would be cool, but anything else would be too)

Nekosmash 31-Jul-20 12:54 PM

(sounds like you hav ea mission planned in scaf chat, lets firm up objective and whos going

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 01-Aug-20 10:25 AM

(I guess options are exploring Bergasa and helping James)

Nekosmash 01-Aug-20 11:34 AM

(That’s right)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 01-Aug-20 11:34 AM

(I’ll help James)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 01-Aug-20 11:44 AM

(Can I get a day of downtime to try and make some meds?)

Nekosmash 01-Aug-20 03:43 PM

(No)

(Otherwise you’re missing the mission)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 01-Aug-20 03:49 PM

(Ok, thanks)

Proceus Pompeus (Xabast) 03-Aug-20 08:20 AM

(Lucas - lvl 6. Hp 28-32. Fix 1-2. Stab 1-2.)