Stars Without Number - shaper-fortress

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 14-Dec-19 10:55 AM

Eisheru arrives on planet dressed in his grey CFU. He has his custom mag pistol strapped to his left leg and his laser rifle attached to his back pack. He walks into General Kirov's command pavilion looking determined. Whatever worry was on his mind has been put away since their victory in space. "Good second rise, General. Can we get an update on the situation here?"

Nekosmash 14-Dec-19 11:25 AM

“Two motor rifle divisions of the Acastus Defense Force left Ash City this morning. They should be here by tonight, along with an attached combat engineering battalion. The Red Sangha have the entirely of their forces deployed in an encirclement of the shaper fortress and their helicopters are currently the only air assets we have. Anything getting within 500m of those walls gets peppered with spikes. “

“Even more troubling we think they might be sucking the life out of the soil itself. I’m not sure how much biomass was in the spot under that thing , but they’ve made alterations and improvements to this fort beyond what they might have absorbed. It’s not leaving them short of ammunition either”

He shows you a slide of a flat armored topped red sangha troop carrier that looks to have had some kind of altercation with a giant porcupine and lost

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 14-Dec-19 11:53 AM

“So they continue to stay in that fortress. Have they attempted to send anything out via the air or only ground forces?” Seung says following his TFP symbol bright on his shoulder. (edited)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 14-Dec-19 11:57 AM

Dorian stays to the side, glancing over the shoulders of the assembled staffers and getting a general feel for the soldiers present.

Nekosmash 14-Dec-19 12:03 PM

Aside from a handful of guards, all officers have been dismissed, Kirov choosing to lead this briefing personally

“They haven’t come out” he continues “and if they’re doing what we think they’re doing, they have no reason to do anything more than ward us away”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 14-Dec-19 12:10 PM

"They clearly don't want to come out or have any need to. I think we need to mount our attack as soon as reinforcements arrive. "

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 14-Dec-19 12:24 PM

Dorian perks up at the last part, “What do we think they’re doing, General?”

Nekosmash 14-Dec-19 12:28 PM

“The comment about pulling biomass or energy from the soil...” you sense him trying to fish around for the appropriate title to end the thought with, but the thought flounders

He flushes a bit

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 14-Dec-19 12:31 PM

“Marshal Guerra, pleasure to meet you,” He says with a smile, “Is there a known range for how far they can pull that energy?”

Nekosmash 14-Dec-19 01:01 PM

He shrugs by way of reply

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 14-Dec-19 01:11 PM

"What of the remaining Red Sangha Corvette? I know they would use that for heavy air support..."

Nekosmash 14-Dec-19 01:57 PM

“They’re unwilling to risk further naval commitment with how heavily they’ve suffered. If they lose this last ship they lose the only naval officers capable of training others”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 14-Dec-19 02:00 PM

"Understandable, what about some of our own Corvettes?"

Nekosmash 14-Dec-19 02:00 PM

“We’re back to the ‘employing capital weaponry on the planet’ conversation” he says

(Starships might be rolling 3d6 or 3d8 but they scale of that damage is relative to other ships. It would be equivalent to tactical nuclear bombing on the ground)

(Ship weapons pretty much instantly slag ground targets)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 14-Dec-19 02:03 PM

(sounds good!)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 14-Dec-19 02:04 PM

“Do we have anything by way of air support? How are we planning to enter the fortress?”

Nekosmash 14-Dec-19 02:05 PM

“red sangha has some helicopters, like I said before. I was given to expect you’d be coming up with the plan”

(They moved to contain it and then you guys showed up )

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 14-Dec-19 02:05 PM

(Makes sense. I’m still not totally against nuking the thing haha)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 14-Dec-19 02:06 PM

"I think we will need several fronts to be opened up on this thing. Might allow for small insertion teams to enter and sabotage enough of the insides to allow for a full assault... Open the gates from the inside type thing."

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 14-Dec-19 02:09 PM

Dorian scowls, “This is going to cost lives regardless. I don’t have a better plan, though. Do we have any idea how they track their targets? Can we throw enough concealment between our line and the fortress to minimize risk?”

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 14-Dec-19 02:21 PM

"I think from the way these creatures act you're not going to really be able to insert without them all knowing the moment you're noticed. They remind me of the Underhill in a way how the hivemind worked. You could get in but the moment they see you the entire place is going to swarm on you."

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 14-Dec-19 02:29 PM

“So we divide our forces and risk the smaller teams being overrun. But it also forces the enemy to adjust to the multiple intrusions. On the other hand, we have a stronger infiltration team that runs the risk of being the sole focus of the counterattack.”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 14-Dec-19 02:47 PM

"I think we only need our infiltration teams to create large enough opening for our forces to follow up with the knock out punch"

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 14-Dec-19 03:03 PM

"So are you hoping for this team to be sneaky or to just take their attention?"

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 14-Dec-19 03:43 PM

"The thought is the main force would create enough of a distraction for smaller teams to get up close and create openings in the fortress walls so more assault teams can enter begin work of clearing it out. Find some sort of central command node and blow it up"

(three parts, 1. Distraction. 2. Create the openings. 3. Assault through the openings.)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 14-Dec-19 05:22 PM

“It’s your party. Do your forces have enough firepower to cover the infiltration teams? Conventional artillery and the like.”

Nekosmash 14-Dec-19 06:04 PM

"Not until the engineers get here tonight, they've got a few towed guns. You're forgetting its been just a few months since we've thrown off the shackles of the still lady"

"Equipment like that was not kept well"

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 14-Dec-19 06:06 PM

"I kinda expected as much. I doubt Greystar themselves has a full battalions worth of munitions around either. Either way I'd like to volunteer myself to lead the group going inside. I wouldn't mind getting up close and personal with a few flesh shapers."

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 14-Dec-19 06:14 PM

"I believe there were reports of missing weapons caches. Unsolved as of now."

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 14-Dec-19 06:24 PM

Dorian’s scowl deepens, “Whats the terrain like around the fortress? Obviously your armored vehicles are getting spotted, but is there enough cover to move people in dismounted?”

Nekosmash 14-Dec-19 06:25 PM

"Sparse trees, most of the foliage was leveled in the impact shockwave. Just stumps and twisted piles of wood now. THey've got a height advantage"

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 14-Dec-19 06:25 PM

“Of course. They’ve chosen an excellent location for a beachhead, haven’t they.”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 14-Dec-19 07:57 PM

"What about just an all sides assault?"

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 14-Dec-19 08:30 PM

“I think that should be a last resort. We’ll lose a lot of people that way. Could we teleport a squad in, or at least to the surface of the fortress and blow our way inside?”

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 14-Dec-19 09:16 PM

“We’d only be able to send a few people and they’d likely not survive 5 minutes for it to charge again. We don’t have enough ships capable of doing so as well. I think a full frontal assault may be the best bet." (edited)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 14-Dec-19 10:16 PM

“So we wait for the engineers,” he says, collapsing onto a camp chair. “This is going to hurt.” (edited)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 15-Dec-19 08:43 AM

"Do we know how they communicate? Could we disrupt their ability to organize some how?"

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 15-Dec-19 08:54 AM

“If Headmaster Fate was here, he could. The only way we’re aware of cancelling their communication is through a nullifier. You wouldn’t happen to have any?” (edited)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 15-Dec-19 08:59 AM

"I had only heard rumors of people mastering that discipline... If it is somehow telepathy based... I could try something but I am not confident in it's likelihood of success."

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 15-Dec-19 10:12 AM

(I think that’s what Reg said in the last emergency meeting.)

Nekosmash 15-Dec-19 10:42 AM

(It needs a nullifier to interrupt it)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 15-Dec-19 10:49 AM

(was thinking of doing suppress cognition to tell it to ignore ground forces approaching)

(since i can make telepathic contact to anything within unaided visual range) (edited)

(Target would be the fortress itself but if it's not possible that's fine too, i was very much throwing things at the wall to see what sticks)

Artifice (Regrupple) 15-Dec-19 10:54 AM

(There are too many targets, the fortress probably isn't sentient like the moon was but even if it were all the normal shapers would see you)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 15-Dec-19 12:10 PM

"Unless we know of a way to get at it from underground, I think a multi direction frontal assault is our only option besides nuking it from orbit which we know is a last resort" (edited)

Nekosmash 15-Dec-19 12:36 PM

(Reg said it better but he said what I would say)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 15-Dec-19 12:38 PM

(makes sense to me)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 15-Dec-19 12:50 PM

“When do you want to start the party?”

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 15-Dec-19 01:36 PM

“I guess we wait for the engineers and go tomorrow. Give us a time to ready ourselves.”

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 15-Dec-19 01:41 PM

“So now we move on to the next part. How are we going to find what we’re looking for?”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 15-Dec-19 02:00 PM

"I'm going to assume that if we follow the concentration of defenses we will find the more important bits"

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 15-Dec-19 04:22 PM

“Are there any conditions you can think of that would require us to call off the attack?”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 15-Dec-19 07:34 PM

"No more shapers left?" He says in a tone that is borderline sarcastic with a big warm smile on his face

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 15-Dec-19 07:51 PM

It’s apparent Dorian exerts some unusual self control by biting his tongue. He manages something between a grimace and a smile in return. “Those are all my concerns. Just put me where you need me.”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 16-Dec-19 06:10 AM

"General, unless you have something else to add I think it might be best to try and get some rest before the rest of our forces arrive."

Nekosmash 16-Dec-19 08:11 AM

He has nothing else and the day passes with some light skirmishing between Greystar scout elements on the battlefield. As the third moon begins to rise, the first of the headlights coming through the forest path can be seen. A long column of vehicles, many towing light field guns, begins making it toward camp (edited)

A handful of scout outriders on cheap motorbikes more at home in the city than out here head out to meet them, holding flares

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 16-Dec-19 09:28 AM

Dorian is roused from his doze and moves towards the assembly area.

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 16-Dec-19 10:32 AM

Eisheru spends most of the evening meditating as sleep would not come easily. Noticing the sounds and lights of the convoy, he stirs from his meditative pose and walks outside to join Dorian. "Hard to sleep on a night like this..." He pauses for a while as they stand there. "Whatever comes between our two polities, I am thankful for you and the Governor for willingly coming to our aid. This is in spite of what your government decided to do as an entity... I cannot promise that everyone understands the decision of the United Nation of Worlds..." (edited)

"... But your presence here has not gone unnoticed"

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 16-Dec-19 12:04 PM

Dorian furrows his brow while watching the Greystar troops, “People don’t have to understand the decisions we make, this war already has multiple fronts and nobody has enough resources to fight the shapers everywhere we need. You just have to look here to see that.” He continues, “Our predecessors had a lot of bad blood between them, and they still do. We’re stronger together than we are apart. There’ll be more to this after we’re done with the Fleshshapers, and we can’t afford to be at odds. I’d rather see Acastus and Gudrun standing side by side than at each other’s throats and with blades in the dark. “ (edited)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 16-Dec-19 12:19 PM

Eisheru stands next to the spy in the eerie dim light of the third rise and listens without response. He nods as Dorian finishes, "Are you sure you are part of the intelligence service? You speak as well as any Merlonian... Jokes aside, you are right there is a lot of bad blood that needs to be overcome. And while it is relatively easy to say we must get over them and work together, getting the powers that be to do so will be the tricky part. It will be even harder for many to ignore the fact that when Acastus called for aid, the response was 'No'. There will be other opportunities, like this one before us, for the gap to be bridged... Let us hope that we are brave enough to seize them."

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 16-Dec-19 12:24 PM

“Agreed. And that we live through it all to make it a reality.”

Nekosmash 16-Dec-19 04:41 PM

As the Greystar troopers begin to dismount and head into the beginnings of the trench works , they begin rotating the exhausted Red sangha troopers out, who look filthy but nothing but serene. Digging teams led by the engineers immediately begin working on buried casements for getting the field guns nested and protected from plunging fire

One of the nearby surveyors is shot through his measuring scope by a shaper bone spine, shattering the equipment and covering it in dark cranial blood

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 16-Dec-19 05:02 PM

(Is this the first time someone has been killed so far back? My understanding was people were getting killed closer to the fortress)

Nekosmash 16-Dec-19 05:05 PM

(Yes)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 16-Dec-19 05:07 PM

"They don't seem to want us to dig in. We need to get these guns together as quick as possible. That or they saw the scope and thought it was an attack. Be careful for anything bigger coming our way." Seung says as he sees the surveyor fall.

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 16-Dec-19 05:10 PM

Dorian ducks behind cover, pulling Eisheru with him. "They've either increased their range, or shortened it."

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 16-Dec-19 05:42 PM

"Anyone get a bead from where that shot came from?" he shouts as he gets pulled into cover

Nekosmash 17-Dec-19 06:06 AM

On the upper rampart, crouched behind one of the hideously organic looking parapets, the defensive casements looking a bit too much like rounded off teeth, a shaper sniper perches, and begins sighting down at the artillery pit for another victim

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 17-Dec-19 06:12 AM

(whats the distance? 500m?)

Nekosmash 17-Dec-19 07:13 AM

(About that )

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 17-Dec-19 07:14 AM

(Wish I’d brought the DMR.)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 17-Dec-19 07:16 AM

Eisheru catches the movement out of the corner of his and then looks to see the artillery crew working fast to get the gun set up. He reaches out to one of the standing crew members telepathically while also shouting, "Sniper! Get down!" (Instant action -1 Effort for the day telepathic connection. Reflex Response main action -1 Effort for the day. Crew member gets a save to resist the reflex to drop to the ground)

(Available Effort: 4/6. and Seung has a sniper rifle I believe)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 17-Dec-19 09:09 AM

(if it wasn't clear, i am targeting one NPC artillery crew person with Reflex Response. Mental save to resist or they drop to the ground)

Nekosmash 17-Dec-19 09:10 AM

(I don’t think they’d want to resist )

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 17-Dec-19 09:10 AM

(my thought too)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 17-Dec-19 12:46 PM

Dorian peeks around their cover, “It’s just outside what I can hit with my rifle.” He looks around for anyone with a heavy weapon or long range gun.

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 17-Dec-19 01:12 PM

“I have a sniper rifle.” Seung says pulling it from his bag. “I think I’ve used it maybe twice so let’s see if I’m any good.” He says sighting on the shaper and aiming from a crouched position.

(Do you want a regular shot or an execute attack.)

Nekosmash 17-Dec-19 01:33 PM

(You can make the execution if you want but the set up time is going to allow the enemy shooter to get a shot or two off)

(Since it’s a full minute)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 17-Dec-19 02:17 PM

(27/15)

Nekosmash 17-Dec-19 05:52 PM

The sniper rifle barks once, a loud bang amid the background clatter of hammers, picks, and shovels. Youre not sure if it was a kill shot, but you see the creature tumble back down behind the defensive crenelation

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 17-Dec-19 06:47 PM

“Nice shot!”

Nekosmash 17-Dec-19 07:21 PM

The artillerymen begin picking themselves up after being psionically compelled to lie flat. "Thank you, for that. Saved our lives"

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 17-Dec-19 07:35 PM

"You're welcome. I don't know how long till they'll send more though. Be careful." (edited)

Nekosmash 17-Dec-19 07:44 PM

(so the plan is some kind of diversionary mass attack while you guys get inside somehow?)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 17-Dec-19 09:20 PM

(unless Dorian or seung have a better idea lol.)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 17-Dec-19 09:49 PM

(My ideas were shot down and assault was the only thing left on the table lol) (edited)

Nekosmash 18-Dec-19 05:46 PM

(got it) On each side of the fort, throughout the night, the guns are dug in, and emplaced. A handful of incendiary shells, followed by high explosive are loaded, and the Greystar army prepares for its first combat action as a unified whole against a foe. They await the signal to throw themselves at the walls with breaching equipment

a handful of armored vehicles screen the advance, smoke cannisters loaded

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 18-Dec-19 05:53 PM

(How we getting to the fortress boys? Vehicles or running?)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 18-Dec-19 06:26 PM

(Neko don't the red sangha have odst style drop pods or was that another group. Unless the greystar do as well. Other wise I guess we're gunna run in because I didn't bring any flying mech suits with I suppose.) (edited)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 18-Dec-19 06:31 PM

(the troop transport has drop pods but I'm sure it would take time to get up there and in position)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 18-Dec-19 06:31 PM

(Well that’d be awesome)

Nekosmash 18-Dec-19 06:41 PM

(They do have thunder strike pods or whatever it’s called)

(You could ODST in once the attack starts)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 18-Dec-19 06:42 PM

(Thunderstrikes launch all the pods (cheap, weaker ones) vs the cycling through drop pods like the standard one)

(for reference)

Nekosmash 18-Dec-19 06:48 PM

(Drop pods in this game are basically like 40k thunder hawks or stormbirds)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 18-Dec-19 06:49 PM

(This game as in Iron Stars? The way the book describes them, I pictured them as the drop ships from Starship Troopers)

Nekosmash 18-Dec-19 06:49 PM

(I meant as in swn as a whole bit I think we are saying the same thing)

(Actual dropships not pods)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 18-Dec-19 06:51 PM

(Yeah. There’s just a specific rule difference between the Thunderhead ones and the CRB ones. Wanted to make sure we all knew.)

Nekosmash 18-Dec-19 07:10 PM

(Do we wanns do drop in then?)

3

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 18-Dec-19 07:35 PM

(I'm ready to drop and get shot mid air. Feet first into hell we go!)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 18-Dec-19 07:39 PM

(let's do it! )

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 18-Dec-19 08:55 PM

(this kind of drop pod right?)

Nekosmash 19-Dec-19 04:47 AM

(That’s what was being debated but not what’s being used)

A small lighter touches down outside the camp, as above in orbit the red sangha troop ship moves into position. A squad of their elite Black Lotus stormtroops is also accompanying , and dozens of decoy pods have also been prepared for the landing. Sadly; their normal soldiery is exhausted and has been pulled back from the line

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 19-Dec-19 05:03 AM

(sounds good) Eisheru pulls the receiver back on his mag pistol and then flips the safety on for the ride. He shakes General Kirov's hand and steps up into the lighter. He is too anxious and nervous to say much. An unusual departure from his normal talkative nature.

Nekosmash 19-Dec-19 10:25 AM

In space the battered red sangha troop ship gets closer and closer; its deployment bay is open already and the loaded drop pods look like a set of bared dull iron fangs , ready to descend on the planet below

A small landing bay lights up next to the deployment hangar and the lighter changers course to head toward it

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 19-Dec-19 10:37 AM

Dorian stands at a porthole, looking down at the planet spinning below them. “We’ll need to move fast once we’re down there. Your forces are going to get chewed up while we’re fighting.”

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 19-Dec-19 11:00 AM

“Be careful out there you two.” He points to Dorian and Eisheru. “If we end up separated try to comms me but who knows if we’ll be able to once we’re inside. If I remember from earlier reports there may be a pod or seed or something we will find. I would suggest detonating it if possible.”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 19-Dec-19 01:31 PM

"I can do you one better, Governor. If you and Dorian are amenable to the idea, I can communicate with you both telepathically." (also would we be able to pick up a demo charge from the Troop Transport armory?)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 19-Dec-19 02:40 PM

"I would be fine with that I guess as long as you don't try to do anything besides link us."

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 19-Dec-19 02:53 PM

"I wouldn't use it for anything else. A natural side effect of the connection means I can sense your emotions. Other than that I promise to leave your inner thoughts alone"

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 19-Dec-19 03:06 PM

“Will we be able to sever the connection later?”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 19-Dec-19 03:09 PM

"I have to concentrate on the connection to keep it active which is a bit taxing to do so i have no desire to keep it up longer than necessary. Also if you are more than a couple thousand kilometers away from me it will automatically break the connection"

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 19-Dec-19 03:13 PM

“ I enjoy being the only person in my head, but you’re right that it would be useful. Go ahead.”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 19-Dec-19 03:20 PM

"Believe me when I say I will not abuse this trust." both of you see Eisheru lose a little of his vibrancy and his voice lowers a little. "Such... Indiscretions are the reason I am no longer allowed to see the waters of my home... I do not intend to make the same mistake twice." Both Dorian and Seung feel the warm and friendly voice in their head more than they hear it. 'I promise the discomfort will go away. All you must do is concentrate on the words and envision yourself sending the thoughts or images to me' (edited)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 19-Dec-19 03:30 PM

(I'll keep committing effort to keep it open through scenes. 2 effort available)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 19-Dec-19 05:43 PM

You sense Dorian’s unease with his response, ’Well this trumps being teleported, that’s for sure.’

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 19-Dec-19 06:34 PM

'The more I communicate this way, the more I come to prefer it. Being able to present ideas and visuals simultaneously has unique advantages. It has the potential for interesting combat applications. I am ready to proceed when you both are... And thank you for allowing me to share this connection with you both. It is a comfort that is difficult to explain to non-telepaths.' (edited)

Nekosmash 19-Dec-19 07:23 PM

(No red sangha isn’t going to give their gear out)

The small craft lands in the hangar , pulling up alongside the array of pods and their attending crews. There aren’t many soldiers on the troop deck. Most look like they’re going to be launched empty

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 19-Dec-19 07:26 PM

Dorian imparts a vague sense of agreement over the link before gathering his kit and heading out into the bay. "Which one's ours?" he asks the closest crew chief looking person.

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 19-Dec-19 07:32 PM

Seung nods to Eisheru. 'Just don't try anything. You're not the first person I've done this with.' Out loud he says. "I think we just pick them and go at this point." Seung says walking towards the pods. (For dorian this isn't like the thing in the book. It's more like odst drop pods, solo affairs.) (edited)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 19-Dec-19 07:36 PM

(Ah ok. Works for me)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 19-Dec-19 07:38 PM

(gulp. Let's do it!)

Eisheru nods towards the Governor but doesn't say anything else. "Guess time to load up? Good luck, to you both. And thank you again. See you planet side"

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 19-Dec-19 07:43 PM

Dorian grins at the other two, "Cheer up! Worst case scenario is we all die, and then none of this will be our problem anymore anyways. Watch your backs. Keep your guns up." He ducks into his pod, spirits raised with the precombat adrenaline dump.

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 19-Dec-19 07:48 PM

Eisheru tries not to vomit.

Nekosmash 20-Dec-19 04:04 AM

The doors are closed by expressionless red sangha techs. You hear the black lotus members , all ten in their pod by themselves , doing terse radio checks. (they hold ten. So you guys individually have a ton of space)

Lights turn from amber to red , showing imminent release. The engines outside burn for a moment as the ship corrects course for drop

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 20-Dec-19 04:46 AM

(ok sorry but i didn't understand they hold 10. Eisheru would 100p not go alone if we could retcon that. It not is what it is)

Nekosmash 20-Dec-19 04:55 AM

(You can retcon

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 20-Dec-19 05:04 AM

(I'll go with Dorian. Thank you Neko)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 20-Dec-19 05:30 AM

“You’re looking a bit green, Eish.”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 20-Dec-19 05:45 AM

"I don't know what-" he stops and puts a hand to his mouth as docking clamps start to release. Clearly not used to this method of assault "-you are talking about... Valheru protect me" he whispers. Although Dorian can't tell whether he heard it through the telepathic connection or with his own ears.

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 20-Dec-19 10:34 AM

“It’ll be fine.” Seung says next to them. “For all we know they have no weapons able to hit these since they move so quick.”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 20-Dec-19 10:37 AM

"I'm just going to assume you know a great deal about the Shapers and their capabilities so I don't have to ask any follow up questions to that statement..."

Nekosmash 20-Dec-19 10:40 AM

There is a rumble and the lights begin flashing with a countdown timer inside, down from ten seconds

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 20-Dec-19 10:53 AM

“Nope. I know as much as you likely, but a man can hope.” Seung smiles. “At least we’re not just jumping from the perfectly good ship into the hellfire.”

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 20-Dec-19 01:13 PM

“Kind of feels like we learn something new every time we fight them. Wonder what they have in store for us this time.” Dorian’s grin widens as the countdown continues.

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 20-Dec-19 01:15 PM

"You two really know how to instill confidence in a Merlon..." Even though you all are strapped into the harnesses you get the image of a less than amused Eisheru crossing his arms shaking his head at you both.

Nekosmash 21-Dec-19 11:05 AM

(Let me get a d20 from each of you for what pod you’re in, I have to tool ground fire

Roll)

(Want it to be random)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 21-Dec-19 11:08 AM

(first roll was 19)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 21-Dec-19 12:12 PM

(13)

Nekosmash 21-Dec-19 01:08 PM

(Just Seung and we are good. I just don’t wanna jip anyone)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 21-Dec-19 01:58 PM

(5)

Nekosmash 21-Dec-19 04:08 PM

Ground fire lights up the sky , bolts of some kind of superheated ichor steak across the air like tracers as the pods begin to fall. The comms are filled with screaming as two of the pods with black lotus troopers are hit. Their conditioning doesn’t shield them from pain, it seems (Seung and eisheru I need three luck saves each. Dorians pod isn’t struck.)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 21-Dec-19 04:09 PM

(The luck is inherent)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 21-Dec-19 04:17 PM

(3, 20, and 12 all vs 8. 1 fail 2 successes)

Nekosmash 21-Dec-19 04:34 PM

(1/3 of total hp lost eisheru as your pod is struck by ground fire, but keeps formation)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 21-Dec-19 04:43 PM

(7hp lost, 15/22)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 21-Dec-19 04:53 PM

(16,1,4 2 fails.)

Nekosmash 21-Dec-19 06:02 PM

(2/3 health down, same thing)

The gunfire is dense and flak clouds knock two of yhe@pods together sending Seung and eisheru spiraling on dirty contrails or black smoke. The surviving pods slam into the ground of the inner shaper fortress inside its courtyard

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 21-Dec-19 06:09 PM

(-140 for me now at 69.) ‘Shit! My pod got shot and I am hurt. Did you two make it fine.’ Seung attempts to think out to the other two. (edited)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 21-Dec-19 06:17 PM

”’I’m good!’ Dorian sends, and activates the explosive bolts on the pod door. He moves quickly with his rifle leveled, looking for cover and to put distance between himself and the pod. (edited)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 21-Dec-19 07:24 PM

Battered with a small stream of blood coming from his temple, Eisheru exits the pod and looks for cover hopefully near his allies. 'I'm hit, but not terrible.' his mag pistol at the ready and sprints for the nearest cover.

(did seung and i land away from the group?)

Nekosmash 21-Dec-19 07:24 PM

(No , everyone’s together you’re just going in hurt)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 21-Dec-19 07:25 PM

(cool. Hope somebody brought lift lol)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 21-Dec-19 07:37 PM

‘At least we’re together. Let’s try to find the others and move in.’

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 22-Dec-19 04:24 AM

'Agreed.' Eisheru tries to contact the Black Lotus squad. "Black Lotus, status report? We need to move, quickly"

Nekosmash 22-Dec-19 06:28 PM

The black lotus squad does not reply , but you saw their pod take fire from the ground and burst into flames. The fort is much like you’d expect a human one to look, woth a tower in each corner and inner keep. You’ve landed before it’s front gates. With the pods for cover, and the mass attack on the fortress walls outside, it doesn’t seem like much attention is being paid to the orbital strike

(Most of the pods were now they see to be empty decoys and they know they scored a kill on a manned one. Three people is harder to spot than a huge group)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 22-Dec-19 06:38 PM

(Is the inner fortress’ gate open?)

Nekosmash 22-Dec-19 07:08 PM

(Yes)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 22-Dec-19 07:11 PM

’Door’s open gentlemen. Let’s keep moving. I don’t like those towers over us.’ Dorian begins moving quickly from the cover he found behind another pod.

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 22-Dec-19 07:30 PM

Eisheru nods silently and telepathically and scans their surroundings while keeping his mag pistol at the low ready.

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 22-Dec-19 08:15 PM

Seung follows closely ready to pull a weapon if needed.

Nekosmash 23-Dec-19 04:39 AM

Outside there is a large blast , that shakes the walls, but you don’t see a breach on this side. Return fire from the walls snaps back outward with harsh cracks that sound like wet bone snapping. Entering the gatehouse you’re see the defenders are absent. A stairwell spirals up into the gatehouse to your right, and the interior gatehouse doors ahead are closed , but don’t look to be locked

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 23-Dec-19 05:43 AM

'Looks like the assault outside is really drawing their attention. Let's try to keep going unnoticed for as long as we can' Eisheru says telepathically to his companions.

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 23-Dec-19 08:13 AM

’Good thinking. Keep moving deeper into the keep or clear the gatehouse?

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 23-Dec-19 08:34 AM

'I think that the quicker we can end the fighting outside, the better. To do that I think we have to get to the heart of this thing like the Governor did on the moon. But I am not the tactical expert that you both are so I will defer to you both'

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 23-Dec-19 11:10 AM

‘I would say move forward. If we head for the walls we know we’ll be out numbered. At least we have a chance that they’ve dwindled inside.’

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 23-Dec-19 11:36 AM

Dorian looks the pair over, noticing their bruises and scrapes. He reaches into a pouch to pull a pair of Lift injectors out and tosses one to each. ’If you need them. We don’t have much time to sit around, though.’

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 23-Dec-19 11:39 AM

Seung stabs himself with the lift. ‘Thanks for that.’ (5 hp healed at 74 now) (edited)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 23-Dec-19 11:44 AM

Eisheru stares at the hypospray then at Dorian and you both just get a feeling of embarrassment though the connection. Meekly, Eisheru responds out loud, "I... I don't... I don't know how to use this..."

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 23-Dec-19 11:51 AM

Dorian smiles and tries to telepathically send a feeling of reassurance. He takes the injector and quickly applies it to Eisheru’s upper arm. (3 hp)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 23-Dec-19 12:34 PM

Eisheru mouths the words, 'Thank You' to Dorian before shaking his arm a little. 'Let's move as soon as we are able.'

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 23-Dec-19 12:35 PM

With a nod, Dorian makes his way towards the closed door.

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 23-Dec-19 12:36 PM

(I messed up my original HP total after fall. Total HP is 23. less 1/3 is 16 unless we round up. +3 from Lift gets it back to 19)

Nekosmash 23-Dec-19 02:17 PM

The door shivers a bit as you approach, as though something from the other side releasesd pressure or backed away

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 23-Dec-19 02:24 PM

Eisheru stands with his back to the wall near the door watching their approach, 'Ready' his companions hear in their head

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 23-Dec-19 02:47 PM

Dorian moves to the opposite side of the door and glances at Seung, ’On you, Governor.’

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 23-Dec-19 04:53 PM

‘Keep close’ Seung thinks towards them his array opening and he presses on the door way.

Nekosmash 23-Dec-19 06:02 PM

)initiatice(

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 23-Dec-19 06:03 PM

(7)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 23-Dec-19 06:22 PM

(2)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 23-Dec-19 06:23 PM

(8)

Nekosmash 23-Dec-19 06:42 PM

The doors break apart as a shaper war@mech emerges, it’s claws and spike cracklings with energy. It spreads them wide and levels them toward you

2

(Seung, Dorian, mech , eisheru

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 23-Dec-19 06:43 PM

(oh shit)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 23-Dec-19 06:45 PM

(so it's like standing right next to us? Distance 2m?) (edited)

Nekosmash 23-Dec-19 06:46 PM

(Within a move action)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 23-Dec-19 06:46 PM

(Ok) (edited)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 23-Dec-19 07:26 PM

Seungs Array sets to the Anti-vehicle weapon and fires twice into the beast. "Where did they get this!" He yells forgetting about mind link. (21/14 18/22)

Nekosmash 23-Dec-19 08:21 PM

(Dorian) the mech lurches as the shots hit it, but it keeps its feet and steadies itself. Smoke curls from the armored plating where shots cracked the exterior and charred flesh underneath

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 23-Dec-19 08:30 PM

“Let’s ask them after we kill it!” Dorian moves opposite of Seung, trying to split whatever fire the mech might put out. He sights his rifle and fires a burst at the creature. (14/12)

Nekosmash 24-Dec-19 01:55 PM

You seem to have drawn its attention as the shot scatters some of the energies surrounding its right fist. Palms raised, it levels one at both you and Seung, the crackling green bolts taking on a more javelin like appearance (hitting Seung for 8 with a crit, Dorian i miss)

(Eisheru is up)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 24-Dec-19 04:29 PM

Eisheru is terrified by the monstrosity before the group. He quickly scoots back to try and find some cover and raises his mag pistol and pulls the trigger (8/9)

Nekosmash 24-Dec-19 04:59 PM

The shots go wide, moving and aiming difficult in the tight confines , and with an enemy mech standing over you. (Seung)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 24-Dec-19 05:06 PM

(66 hp now) Seung grunts before firing twice again with his anti-vehicle array. (34/24 30/26. Those are more like Seung rolls.) ‘We need to finish this thing off and more before more come. I wanna hold off on my launcher till the core but if I need too I still have it.’

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 24-Dec-19 05:34 PM

'Play it by ear, we trust your judgement Governor'

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 24-Dec-19 05:54 PM

Dorian keeps moving, trying to get behind the mech; or at least get it to commit to him or Seung. ’Agreed! Let’s bring it down.’ He let’s loose another burst. (22/20)

(Doing Christmas Eve stuff, just wanted to post mine to keep it moving.)

Nekosmash 25-Dec-19 04:47 AM

The mech falls to one knee at the anti vehicle laser hits, in time for its head to fall level with Dorian’s weapon. A quick trigger pull sends the head into hundreds of flesh, metal, and bone fragments. The gatehouse roof is splattered in a blue purple mix of brain

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 25-Dec-19 09:30 AM

"That is one terrifying monstrosity... I wish I had the bioscopic ability to analyze what they are doing with their.... Creations..." Eisheru looks horrified at the fallen flesh mech. 'Let's move on, quickly before any others come...'

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 25-Dec-19 11:57 AM

'Agreed we have time to delve into their powers and how they work later.' Seung thinks as he moves forward into the cave

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 25-Dec-19 01:57 PM

Dorian reloads the rifle, and falls into line with the other two. ’Good call. Win first, study later.’

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 25-Dec-19 02:11 PM

Seeing Dorian reload reminds Eisheru to do the same. After he follows the two of them in to the fort

Nekosmash 26-Dec-19 03:19 PM

The creature lays dying as you move into the gatehouse and inner court. Two warriors stand guard near a fortified door, and the building seems to quake gently as though breathing on its own

Outside there is a cheer and a roar as an incendiary shellfinally strikes home

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 26-Dec-19 03:27 PM

(Are they aware of us?)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 26-Dec-19 05:05 PM

(gonna reach out telepathically to one of the guards) (edited)

Nekosmash 26-Dec-19 05:49 PM

(What technique?)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 26-Dec-19 05:51 PM

(right now just emotions)

(level 0 base technique)

Nekosmash 26-Dec-19 06:25 PM

You sense nothing from them aside from an awareness of you

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 26-Dec-19 08:54 PM

Eisheru attempts to talk with the shaper, 'Why have you come here?' (Using Transit Thought paired with level 1 core technique)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 26-Dec-19 09:40 PM

(Transmit Thought requires them to be willing, so no save needed.)

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 04:54 AM

(They’re not willing) the two shaper soldiers level their weapon arms and begin to slowly advance ( their left arms fashioning themselves into tall and thick boarding shields.

(Seung)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 27-Dec-19 05:15 AM

‘Damn it they noticed us. We need to hurry into that building!’ Seungs weapon swaps to the magma grenade launcher and fires twice at the soldiers. (35/17 24/21)

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 05:48 AM

The two grenades air burst explosively and rain the Chem rich magma down on the shapers below. They both ignite but continue advancing

(Dorian)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 27-Dec-19 07:21 AM

’Of course. Why would explosives slow them down.’ He steadies his aim and fires a burst at the right one. (23/7)

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 07:52 AM

The right side guard has its shield broken by the well placed shot. Bone fragments along with spirts of rich arterial blood pump from the wound. It goes down on one knee, badly wounded

(24/4 on seung , 25/2 on Dorian)

(Eisheru up)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 27-Dec-19 08:07 AM

'I swear, all I said was hello and please don't touch the mushrooms!' Eisheru raises his may l mag pistol and aims carefully before pulling the trigger.

(17/9)

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 08:47 AM

(Which target)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 27-Dec-19 08:48 AM

(wounded heavily one on right)

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 09:41 AM

It falls, the final shot enough to send it sprawling on the flesh metal decking of their fort. Outside the commotion rises as the human forces begin trying to storm the breach. The noise is almost overwhelming

(Seung

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 27-Dec-19 12:23 PM

Seung fires one more magma grenade into the shaper. (23/22)

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 01:22 PM

It takes three steps forward, aflame from head to toe before collapsing on its knees, and then on its face. Out in the courtyard you hear the sounds of heavy, close range fighting as the breaching unit and shaper garrison lay into one another mercilessly. Ahead, the inner keeps walls visibly shiver, and begin to ripple. )Mental saves all(

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 27-Dec-19 01:24 PM

(20v8)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 27-Dec-19 01:24 PM

(10v6)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 27-Dec-19 01:27 PM

(19v6)

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 01:36 PM

You all feel a dull scratching at the back of your minds but you’re able to shake it off as an annoyance.

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 27-Dec-19 01:51 PM

“I really don’t like this place,” Dorian mutters. He makes his way past the downed warriors and towards the door they were guarding. “I bet there’s something breakable through here.”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 27-Dec-19 02:00 PM

Eisheru pinches the bridge of his nose. "Agreed. Ready to end this when you all are." He places another pistol round into his gun and gives the two a nod. "The guys and gals outside are fighting hard to give us this cover, let's finish the job."

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 27-Dec-19 02:09 PM

"Let's not let those deaths be for nothing let's finish this." Seung says in agreement heading for the door.

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 02:12 PM

You enter the sliding door, creaking open on arthritic hinges. Inside is a smaller version of the crystalline arc node room seen on the moon. The same energy pulses through it , crackling between pillars

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 27-Dec-19 02:23 PM

(is there something for me to Target with Telepathic Contact?)

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 02:25 PM

(Not really. The room of the inner keep itself is the whole thing)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 27-Dec-19 02:28 PM

(ok was looking for a central consciousness to connect with. No worries if there isn't)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 27-Dec-19 02:29 PM

“So what? We just start blasting?”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 27-Dec-19 02:30 PM

"Governor any of this familiar from your brief stay inside the moon? Maybe aim for the pillars?

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 02:42 PM

(There would be something here for that but nothing that stands out as a central brain organ )

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 27-Dec-19 02:54 PM

“I could go ahead and take a shot and hope I suppose.” Seung says hefting his launcher. “Are you two ready to run just in case?” (edited)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 27-Dec-19 02:55 PM

“Uh...” Dorian begins edging towards the door, motioning for Eisheru to do the same, “Yeah that should work right? It’s what you did on the moon after all.”

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 03:22 PM

(Just wanna see what eisheru does as far as connecting)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 27-Dec-19 04:55 PM

Eisheru takes a brief moment to reach out telepathically to whatever entity is living in this central building (level 3 contact, ask one question. Mental save to resist, "Where is the Shaper host from?")

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 04:55 PM

(Mental save for you too at -4)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 27-Dec-19 04:55 PM

(oof k)

(fail 3v6)

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 05:03 PM

One word (going to pm you depending so we prevent metagaming) manifests in your mind, your thoughts swimming as you see a star chart. Your eyes roll back into your head and you fall to your knees, body locked there. You are filled with the cold of space and a deep hunger inside you, something gnawing and incessant that no amount of glut will ever satisfy. You feel like a starvation victim locked in a kitchen full of rich food and smells and unable to interact with any of it. Your arms begin to move on their own as you feel this hungering presence sifting through your thoughts, them becoming dimmer and less remembered. Your pistol rises, pointing at Dorian. (22/9, 20/5). Two shots from the elegant weapon ring out.

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 27-Dec-19 05:08 PM

(Are we in initiative still?)

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 05:10 PM

(Yeah, same order)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 27-Dec-19 06:11 PM

“Eisheru what the fuck!” Seung yells pointing his Array now in a laser firing mode.

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 27-Dec-19 06:58 PM

(Is that your turn?)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 27-Dec-19 07:33 PM

(Suppose so.) “Dorian are you hurt?!”

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 27-Dec-19 07:52 PM

Dorian watches Eisheru fall to his knees without warning. He began to reach towards the obviously distressed Merlon when the pistol trained towards him. The shots are well aimed, punching into Dorian's chest armor. While the ceramic material keeps the projectiles from tearing through his torso, the force behind them knock the wind from Dorian. He feels a crack-pop after the second hit and tastes copper. Forgoing his immediate instinct to perforate his attacker, Dorian lets his rifle hang by its sling and draws the flop pistol holstered at his hip. He coughs out a swear before firing at Eisheru. (12/8)

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 08:10 PM

(Does that hit/drop you eisheru?)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 27-Dec-19 08:21 PM

(no ac 16)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 27-Dec-19 08:24 PM

(I’d like to snap shot once I’m home if I can.)

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 08:24 PM

The shots from the flop rifle crackle and hiss but do nothing to bring down your former friend. Green lighting from inside the fortress begins to build, heading toward you in forked bolts

(You already acted this round)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 27-Dec-19 08:25 PM

(Ah didn’t know if it was over. Nvm.)

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 08:25 PM

(19 and 19 to hit , 4 damage.)

Eisheru rises to his feet and gestures toward the stricken intelligence operative Dorian (mental save)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 27-Dec-19 08:28 PM

(18v8)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 27-Dec-19 08:29 PM

(just a heads up neko i was out of available effort if that changes anything)

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 08:30 PM

(You’re using its effort )

(Also Dorian is fine, Seung is up)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 27-Dec-19 08:35 PM

Seung holds his array on Eisheru for a moment hesitating before turning and grabbing up his launcher to fire twice towards the center of the room. (I guess if there’s nothing I’m aiming for the walls. 30/34 24/27.)

Nekosmash 27-Dec-19 08:37 PM

(There’s the crystal things set into the walls )

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 27-Dec-19 08:37 PM

(Then at those I suppose. Two shots at different parts of the wall.)

Nekosmash 28-Dec-19 04:22 AM

Two rockets hit various crystal nodes on the wall and you feel the fortress writhe in pain. The walls shake and so does the ground, small pebbles vibrating so hard they appear to float for brief seconds

(Dorian)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 28-Dec-19 08:29 AM

Dorian runs forward towards Eisheru, forcing the mag pistol out of line. He brings up his own pistol, firing in the melee. (Basically forcing melee range.) (11/2 wtf)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 28-Dec-19 08:34 AM

(

)

Nekosmash 28-Dec-19 08:35 AM

The two of you clatter together in a tangle of bodies. Eisherus arm glows and he grasps dorians shoulder (Physical save my friend )

(To Dorian)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 28-Dec-19 08:36 AM

(WOW ok so bad idea to worse idea haha 12v8)

Nekosmash 28-Dec-19 08:37 AM

(You take two points of system strain from fighting off what he was gonna do but otherwise are fine)

The lair roars again and a wave of lighting energy rushes out at you both (21 to Seung and 19 Dorian for hitting, 3 damage If it does, Seung is up )

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 28-Dec-19 12:25 PM

Seung looks to Dorian. “Try not to die to that! See if you can subdue him! He probally tried to communicate with it or this thing took him. Sil use to push his mind against anything that moves I’m sure if he’s a telepath the Dumbass did the same thing! Hopefully this some how breaks that link!” Seung yells as he fires twice more into the crystals. (30/31 33/37)

Nekosmash 28-Dec-19 01:24 PM

The two rockets (I think the launcher is empty now) pound into the brain room sending crystalline nodes raining down in a burning glass storm. The fortress quivers again and one of the outside corner towers falls as the shaper minds concentration is broken

(Dorian)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 28-Dec-19 01:56 PM

Dorian twists out of Eisheru’s grasp, firing the pistol again. “Snap out of it, Eish! We’ve got enough to worry about than a possessed telepath!” (26/5)

Nekosmash 28-Dec-19 01:59 PM

You see the shot hit him and electrical energy plays over his skin, but he remains standing. He reaches for Dorian again (Same thing, physical save)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 28-Dec-19 02:00 PM

(7v8)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 28-Dec-19 02:00 PM

(14/23) (edited)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 28-Dec-19 02:02 PM

(Is that against me?)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 28-Dec-19 02:02 PM

(no that's my hp sorry)

Nekosmash 28-Dec-19 02:03 PM

(Yeah I updated it on the sheet for eisheru. Had a few minutes before company comes over for Xmas part 3)

Nekosmash 28-Dec-19 02:22 PM

Dorian feels as though his skin is made of hot wax. His fingers run and drip, skin and the muscle beneath beginning to melt away as he begins being shaped, the tallow like feeling spreading up his arm

The lair attacks, a concussive wave from an internal gland focused into a blast

(I’ll roll when there’s a break in the visit )

Nekosmash 28-Dec-19 02:30 PM

(Also, 10 damage to Dorian)

Nekosmash 28-Dec-19 03:27 PM

(23/17 on Seung. Back to Seung)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 28-Dec-19 04:06 PM

(Just want to mention every thing has missed so far.) Seung shrugs off the blast watching in horror as Dorian begins to melt. He rushes behind Eisheru attempting to pull him away. “Get the fuck away from him!”

Nekosmash 28-Dec-19 04:15 PM

(Let’s get an opposed exert/str) (edited)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 28-Dec-19 04:27 PM

(12)

Nekosmash 28-Dec-19 05:07 PM

(I went and did it, for a 5) Seung pulls eisheru off of Dorian handily , tossing the two struggling figures apart

(I’d say theyre both prone now, but apart)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 28-Dec-19 05:16 PM

(Oh thank god haha)

Dorian scrambles to his feet, screaming in horror and pain, “Seung! What the fuck did he do to me?!” Again, he fires at Eisheru. Desperation evident on his face, he continues firing the Flop pistol since it’s at hand. (26/3)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 28-Dec-19 05:37 PM

(11/23 hp)

Nekosmash 28-Dec-19 05:51 PM

Eisheru takes his feet and tries to mentally connect to Seung now, his work on Dorian able to continue on its own Dorians hand, now a lump of flesh resembling a candle at the end of its life, ends at the nub of a wrist (physical effect save Dorian and mental save Seung

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 28-Dec-19 05:56 PM

(7v8)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 28-Dec-19 06:03 PM

(10v6)

Nekosmash 28-Dec-19 06:07 PM

The flesh wasting disease continues up Dorians arm, blood beginning to boil and flesh popping as the biomass changes and morphs (10 damage). Seung feels something like icy fingers scraping his mind but shrugs it off.

Nekosmash 28-Dec-19 07:39 PM

The focused blast of energy from inside rolls over the both of you (23 for Dorian to hit , 29 for Seung. 7 damage)

( and back to Seung)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 28-Dec-19 09:02 PM

(59 hp) Seung stumbles for a moment before walking over to Eisheru and pulls him up slightly by his shirt bending over him. "Eisheru if you can hear me at all I'm going to try to fix this if we all live, but for the time being I really need you." Seung pulls back his right arm. "To quit moving and stop!" Seung punches him once with his right arm. "Melting Dorian!" Seung punches Eisheru again in the face. (31/7 20/7 Non lethal punches I suppose.) (edited)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 28-Dec-19 09:31 PM

(out)

Nekosmash 29-Dec-19 06:29 AM

Eisheru falls to the floor, his face and body looking like his own once again the microsecond before he topples over. Dorian still feels the effects of the change upon him, creeping even further up his arm

Nekosmash 29-Dec-19 06:50 AM

(Dorian is up )

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 29-Dec-19 08:00 AM

“Seung!” Dorian’s voice is hoarse, his breathing ragged, “Seung, it’s getting worse. Im going to do something stupid. If I pass out, there’s Lazarus patches in my med pouch.” He drops the flop pistol, and draws his mono blade knife. A quick cut tears the sleeve, exposing his bow twisted arm. Dorian closes his eyes, steadying his hand. Then quickly slices through skin and bone just above the encroaching disease. (11/4) The diseased portion of his arm falls to the ground, and Dorian falls onto his back his face a rictus of pain.

2

(0 hp)

Nekosmash 29-Dec-19 08:07 AM

Dorian falls to the deck, a few paces from his arm. Blood pumps from the wound in a growing lake of sticky sluce. (Lair actions are recharging. Seung up) (edited)

(Dorian needs to be stabilized , p

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 29-Dec-19 11:11 AM

“Dorian!” Seung yells going over to his body and pulling a lazarus patch. “You’re really lucky I have this and you didn’t just doom yourself.” Seung says to himself now putting it on Dorian. (9 on dex/heal)

Nekosmash 29-Dec-19 11:11 AM

(Can you use dex or is it int only?)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 29-Dec-19 11:12 AM

(You can use dex I had to reread it a second ago)

Nekosmash 29-Dec-19 11:40 AM

(We needed an 8 here so you pass)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 29-Dec-19 11:47 AM

(whew)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 29-Dec-19 12:10 PM

(Awesome!)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 29-Dec-19 01:25 PM

Seung waits a few moments for the patch to work before seeing the slow but steady breathing of Dorian. He let’s go of a breath that he had been holding standing up and facing towards where most of the attacks have been coming from. “And now to deal with you.”

Nekosmash 29-Dec-19 01:51 PM

The mix of stimulants and chemicals raise Dorian to stable but he is still knocked out

His wounds look severe but the clot on his arm is holding

Nekosmash 29-Dec-19 02:31 PM

The lair fires a forked tongue of lighting at Seung, using the strength it can muster but the energy falls short, most of its efforts spent in controlling the Greystar psychic

(Back to Seung

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 29-Dec-19 02:56 PM

“Alright so out of rockets, big giant fleshy place I gotta try to destroy. Cankerous I know it’s been a few months, but if there was any time to show some godly magic it would be appreciated before it sends the goons.” Seung says to himself quietly before aiming for the where the lighting came from and firing twice with his array. (31/19 20/25)

Nekosmash 29-Dec-19 06:54 PM

The fortress shudders and sighs as though a bubble has been popped. The walls begin to sag and collapse outside, and even the air itself feels more fresh and less packed in and recycled. Your two companions are down. One knocked out, face bleeding freely into the dark ground. The other, worse off, thick black veins forming around the stump of an arm. You’ve seen war wounds before. This is especially nasty

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 29-Dec-19 07:03 PM

"is that it.." He looks around for a moment before attempting to hail the outside on radio. "Hello. Hello this is Seung. Can anyone hear me out there I have two wounded and I don't know how long they'll last. Are the shapers still fighting you out there?"

Nekosmash 29-Dec-19 07:29 PM

A voice comes back over the radio, female, and there is a harsh crackle of gunfire in the background. “Whatever just happened a second ago, the walls are coming down but these things went berserk. They’ve gone into some kind of Frenzy. We’ll do our best to get to you”.

3

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 29-Dec-19 07:48 PM

"Damn it. I really wish Sil was here could use the teleport." Seung says looking down at the two he keys the radio again. "If you can try to make an opening. If I can I'm going to try to head for you and meet you in the middle." He then drags the two together before bending down attempting to pick them both up onto separate shoulders.

Nekosmash 30-Dec-19 07:39 AM

Carrying them both is easy but it leaves your hands occupied and unable to hold weapons. Picking them@up you run out and toward the sound of gunfire

Outside in the courtyard, two soldiers hold the door, firing at a shaper and dropping it as you make your way to them. Dozens of corpses from both sides carpet the area near the breach

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 30-Dec-19 09:58 AM

“Over here! Soldiers to me! We need to break through and out so I can get these two medical help!” Seung yells to the soldiers trying to move closer to them.

Nekosmash 30-Dec-19 01:53 PM

The soldiers closest to you form a defensive wedge, firing at anything that gets close. One to your left 10m away is hacked down by the large bore rounds the shapers favor

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 30-Dec-19 01:59 PM

“Someone take this one so I can fight too!” Seung shouts to the soldiers indicating Eisheru on his right shoulder.

Nekosmash 30-Dec-19 02:22 PM

A fire team of four begins making their way toward you, moving and providing their own cover fire while doing so. The comms officer is hit and falls, backpack smoking but the rest make it to you, pulling eisheru from your shoulders

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 30-Dec-19 02:24 PM

Seung still holding Dorian with his left arm holds out his right array coming out and firing at the shapers around while moving with the men towards the walls and the way out. (20/25 26/24)

Nekosmash 30-Dec-19 02:37 PM

Fighting your way out, wounded In tow , you arrive on the other side of the breach and into the trench network where stretchers are found for you and the wounded. Medics rush over, as you’re brought to a reserve bunker , and begin working

Nekosmash 30-Dec-19 03:05 PM

(So right now, Seung is the only one awake who knows eisheru was doing weird shit in there. We have a choice to make here )

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 30-Dec-19 03:22 PM

(what are our choices)

Nekosmash 30-Dec-19 03:32 PM

(No hes gotta decide if he’s going to disclose what happened in there or not)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 30-Dec-19 03:34 PM

(ooo k. )

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 30-Dec-19 03:57 PM

(I'm at your mercy, seung!)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 30-Dec-19 04:46 PM

After dispensing the wounded Seung looks around. “I need who ever is highest in command here. I need to speak to them on one of the woundeds conditions, and if you can please have Eisheru separated and quarantined.” (edited)

Nekosmash 30-Dec-19 04:47 PM

Soldiers come forward and begin wheeling his stretcher to a separate ward, a number of soldiers in escort. Minutes go by before general Kirov arrives on scene with his own bodyguards

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 30-Dec-19 04:52 PM

Seung stands leaning against the trenches his eyes closed rousing as the men come up to him moving to stand straight. “General, it’s good to see that you made it safely. Thank you for coming to see me so quickly in the aftermath of this. I’d like to discuss on one of the wounded Eisheru. If possible once he’s treated I’d like to be the first one to speak to him. Alone as well.”

Nekosmash 30-Dec-19 05:02 PM

He lights a cigarette and looks up at the deflating walls of the fortress. Fighting seems to have ended with an Acastus victory, and flame units are moving forward to begin mopping@up

“What happened in there. We lost contact after those pods took ground fire”

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 30-Dec-19 05:14 PM

“Well we launched and landed losing some pods. I believe you’ll find the other drop troopers dead somewhere in there. We ran into some resistance before getting to the main building. Once we got there...” Seung hesitates for a moment. “Eisheru something happened. He’s a telepath uses it for simple things probably so often trying to push against what ever in there just came natural, or maybe some how it took control of that what ever in his brain. He turned and shot Dorian and some how used some power on him to melt his arm. He maybe still have something which is why I wish to see him first just in case but after knocking him out he seemed normal. Dorian cut his arm off before it melted to the shoulder and I was able to stop what ever was controlling it. It seemed there was crystallized structures in the flesh that it may be using to communicate or maybe it was just part of the creature. Just reminded me of something we once found on Gudrun near a species of giant hive mind insects. After it seemed to die I ran out with those two and now we’re here.”

Nekosmash 30-Dec-19 05:18 PM

“Do you have suspicion that eisheru might still be in thrall if this power?”

“Your headmaster of psychics recently arrived on planet on unrelated business. I can have him brought here”

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 30-Dec-19 06:08 PM

"I don't think so, but bringing him may be for the best I suppose. Perhaps he can check while Eisheru is still out."

Artifice (Regrupple) 30-Dec-19 09:17 PM

Regulus enters the bunker a short time later, "Ah, Mr. Whitaker, found yet again at the heart of conflict. Now where is the tidecaller and why has he been quarantined?"

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 31-Dec-19 06:38 AM

“He’s somewhere that way.” Seung says pointing towards where the stretcher went. “But I think what ever controls the fleshshapers got him possibly.”

Artifice (Regrupple) 31-Dec-19 06:52 AM

"... The scream beast? You believe he's under its control?"

Nekosmash 31-Dec-19 09:01 AM

“I believe that’s where you come in headmaster. We need you to see what you can sense and what to make of it all, and determine if the tide caller is a threat”

Artifice (Regrupple) 31-Dec-19 11:23 AM

"Curious. Well, lead me to him and let me see for myself. Is Mr. Guerra with him?"

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 31-Dec-19 11:59 AM

“No but he took heavy damage to his arm. What ever took over Eisheru used him as a conduit channeling it’s power through his touch. When it touched Dorian it started to melt his arm like the shapers till he cut it at the shoulder. He still shows some signs though of something the veins around the cut went black. What ever it was tried to take me too I think when I had to rip Eisheru off of Dorian. Just a heads up I had to subdue Eisheru, but I had no way really to restrain him so I ended up punching him in the face till he finally went out cold.” Seung says heading in the direction Eisheru was taken. “Thank you general.” He says behind them with a wave. (edited)

Artifice (Regrupple) 31-Dec-19 12:16 PM

"I should be able to restrain him. And hopefully help him. The fleshshapers exhibit new abilities almost every time we've encountered them... Hopefully the Tidecaller's risk was worth it." Regulus follows Seung to Eisheru.

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 31-Dec-19 04:51 PM

“Hopefully it was. It’s permanently disfigured Dorian, and why do you keep calling him “The” tidecaller?” Seung asks while walking.

Nekosmash 31-Dec-19 04:56 PM

Eisheru has been wheeled into a private ward, with dorian’s a few doors down also under guard, but for different reasons. The tidecaller is handcuffed and manacled to the bed, with a blindfold over his eyes. You can see the medics and security forces here are hopelessly outclassed and just guessing at an effective way to keep further havoc from happening

Artifice (Regrupple) 31-Dec-19 05:17 PM

"Among the Merlons of the planet you govern that is a title of respect for their trained psychics and mages. They keep to their own and I am not one to push like Silvano was. As long as they train their tidecallers well the academy respects their right to oversee their own psychics' growth." Regulus approaches Eisheru with concern. "Ah, these are unnecessary now that I am here." He waves a hand and the manacles fall free, using Force Puppetry to make Eisheru stand in front of him. (I assume he wouldnt get a save since he's knocked out?) Hands placed floating half an inch away from his skin, one nearly touching his forehead the other his chest, Regulus looks within, opening up his metapsionic channels and scouring Eisheru's psyche with his senses for anything abnormal.

Nekosmash 31-Dec-19 05:33 PM

(That’s right. He’s out cold)

You sense a fragment of the corrupted bioscopic energy inside him, but it’s acting as any normal MES channel would , carved into the mind. Otherwise, he seems like himself as your psychic probing continues

(So you can tell he’s not being dominated anymore but he did get a bit of what they can do from the contact. OOC ; I want what he can do now to be an aberration, not something psychics can normally learn)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 31-Dec-19 06:30 PM

"Well that's something new." Seung says watching from the corner. "Are you're sure you're psychic still and not godlike? Actually don't answer that I don't need anymore of those. Is he still controlled?"

Artifice (Regrupple) 01-Jan-20 04:39 AM

"It seems his mind is his own. But the possession left a mark. A remnant of the powers you saw him use remains, though the exact effects on himself and others is still unknown. It could leave him more vulnerable to the shaper's abilities or it could give him greater defenses but for now at least nothing is controlling him. I am going to wake him now, though I will not release him quite yet." The hand hovering over Eisheru's chest lightly makes contact, rejuvenating energy flowing through. (Heals 7 and you wake up, you're still bound by Force Puppetry though, you can talk but not move)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 01-Jan-20 06:21 AM

(am i awake now?)

Nekosmash 01-Jan-20 06:45 AM

(Yes. You’re awake)

(And probably coming out of a cloudy feeling)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 01-Jan-20 07:07 AM

Eisheru is held limply in the air as he begins to regain some sort of consciousness. In his waking moments all he can recall is the intense hunger and a force of will that subverted his own. There was a word that kept swirling in his head. If he could just remember what it was. He starts to stir gently as he regains control of himself, but with his reawakening comes a flood of memories. 'A star chart. It points North.' And the image is quickly replaced by a void. A deep insatiable hunger. 'Feed. Consume.' the dominating presence would say as it controlled his every action. Next gunshots. 'Where did it come from? Did I fire those shots?' he says to himself as he looks down at his smoking mag pistol. Then he looks up to see Dorian, his face has a look of shock and exasperation. As soon as he sees where the rounds impacted his new friend's armor his eyes shoot open. "Dorian... Dorian! Kalahira forgive me, What have I done?" it's at the point his mind finally registers the large imposing metal figure standing inches from his face and panic starts to set in. He attempts to scoot away from the unknown metallic being. "Who? What are you?" Eisheru finally notices that he is not in bed. Or on any physical surface for that matter. His eyes start darting around the room looking for anything that can help him get out of his current predicament. (edited)

Artifice (Regrupple) 01-Jan-20 11:39 AM

Regulus backs away a bit and tilts his head as he studies Eisheru. "I am headmaster Regulus Fate. It seems you have been through quite an ordeal. I'd ask what on earth were you thinking when you connected to the fleshshaper fortress, but really I can quite empathize. My question is what did you learn? And what are you able to do now?"

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 01-Jan-20 12:44 PM

Eisheru stares back at the headmaster with a blank look. 'Headmaster Fate... Why do I know that name? ...' "I asked it where the Shapers come from... Where is Dorian? Is he alright? Dorian!" Eisheru struggles in vain against the telekinetic force used to restrain him. Eisheru sees the Governor in the corner of the room. "Governor! Thank Kslahira you are alive. Where is Dorian? Is he alright?"

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 01-Jan-20 01:14 PM

“Well he’s alive. What ever you decided to attempt first contact with when it took you over used it’s power through you and melted his arm. He cut it off after I knocked you out and died for a short time before I stabilized him. He’s likely lost that arm for ever unless psychics or magic can fix it. It’s possible he’s still infected or something too as his veins in the area were blackened. I’m not sure of his current condition but, that’s how I last saw him.”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 01-Jan-20 02:01 PM

Eisheru hangs his head and sobs silently. 'The same mistakes... Never learn... Exile...' After a moment Eisheru manages to compose himself a little more as the confusion begins to clear. "I cannot apologize enough... I didn't think... I didn't think I would be so overwhelmed... The presence that was behind the Shapers... I have never known such insatiable hunger. Such desire to consume with no end in sight." Eisheru shudders visibly before continuing, "While the risk I took was great, it did bear fruit. I must get this information to Director Kensh."

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 01-Jan-20 02:11 PM

“If you learned anything I think you have a right to tell us as well. This isn’t a enemy that only Greystar is dealing with.”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 01-Jan-20 02:17 PM

"True and I have no intention withholding the information from our Allies to the East. All I ask is that the Director hear the information simultaneously."

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 01-Jan-20 04:31 PM

“I suppose that’s fine. Regulus do you have any more questions?”

Artifice (Regrupple) 01-Jan-20 05:02 PM

"Many. But they can wait. Let us meet with the Director if we must before you will speak more."

Nekosmash 01-Jan-20 05:11 PM

An orderly knocks on the door before coming in. With a crisp salute to General Kirov, and a nod to Seung and Regulus he speaks . "the UNW intelligence chief is stirring. I think you all should see to him, before anything further is done"

Artifice (Regrupple) 01-Jan-20 05:19 PM

"Ah yes, I forgot myself amidst the mystery. Please allow me to inspect his wound and see what I can do." (edited)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 01-Jan-20 05:39 PM

“Are you going to bring Eisheru or leave him. Where ever he goes I’m staying near for now.” (edited)

Artifice (Regrupple) 01-Jan-20 05:45 PM

"He will come. I expect to not leave his presence until more questions are answered. If you agree to this Tidecaller, you will be allowed to walk of your own volition. It is merely a safety precaution."

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 01-Jan-20 05:51 PM

"This is agreeable, Headmaster Fate." Without another word, Eisheru falls in line behind the Headmaster and follows. He doesn't raise his eyes again until they reach Dorian's room

Nekosmash 01-Jan-20 05:52 PM

Dorian is stirring, being roused to wake by two orderlies. You can see the stump of his arm ends barely after the shoulder, and has been wrapped in clean linen. There are a number of cables and monitors attached to him, and one of the machines near his bed begins to grumble as his blood is cleansed. Inside a clear windowed storage tank, black blood is being filtered, and cleansed.

Artifice (Regrupple) 01-Jan-20 05:58 PM

"Mr. Guerra. A pleasure to finally meet in person." Regulus approaches, inspecting the blood and the wound for any remaining psionic energy.

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 01-Jan-20 06:08 PM

Dorian groans at the orderlies. His eyes are sunken, and lips pale. After blinking a few times, his gaze manages to focus on Reg. “Headmaster, the pleasure’s mine. Mostly since I can only assume this means I’m still alive. Is Eish ok?”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 01-Jan-20 06:23 PM

Eisheru looks up only for a moment to take in the havoc and damage he caused before looking towards the floor again. "I am here, Dorian. Alive... thanks to you and the Governor." he says in a manner bereft of it's usual confidence and vigor

Artifice (Regrupple) 01-Jan-20 06:28 PM

"Hmm the corruption seems to have stopped advancing when you severed your arm. But what remains may make it impossible to heal with psionics. Thankfully with advanced prosthetics your life should be largely unaffected--your predecessor Desmond could attest to that." Regulus sends healing energies into Dorian's body, carefully watching the interactions with the corrupted stump.

(Heals 7)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 01-Jan-20 06:36 PM

Some color returns to Dorian’s face. “It’s good you’re such a terrible shot, I would’ve been worried otherwise.”

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 01-Jan-20 06:45 PM

(Figure I’ll let Neko describe the stump’s reaction)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 01-Jan-20 07:31 PM

"Thankfully..." Eisheru attempts to read Dorian's emotions through the telepathic bond only to feel an uncomfortable static. Shaking his head he resumes his focus on the makeshift field hospital floor

Nekosmash 02-Jan-20 05:03 AM

The wounds elsewhere on dorians body begin to heal. The veins around the stump return to their normal color, but the wound itself is not regenerating tissue like normal psionic regeneration would allow

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 02-Jan-20 06:29 AM

Eisheru takes a step forward to to the bed and for the first time since entering the room he looks Dorian in the eyes. "Dorian I..." the typically eloquent Merlon stammers for the first time since he was a child. "I... I cannot begin to express how sorry I am... The only solace I can offer is that the effort was not in vain. You and your office will get the full report once I am able to meet with Director Kensh... Thank you for showing restraint during the ordeal. I only remember bits and pieces after my body was taken over, but I remember you pulling out your flop rifle... Just... Thank you." is all he can muster before hanging his head. (edited)

Artifice (Regrupple) 02-Jan-20 06:36 AM

Regulus glances over at Eisheru as he senses him attempting to make contact, "I would suggest no telepathy before we discern the nature of your affliction. Mr. Guerra, are you well enough to accompany us to meet with the Director? I can offer further healing but I'm afraid it will not help your arm."

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 02-Jan-20 08:28 AM

“Eish, I’m glad you’re still alive. Mistakes were made, but we still won in the end so don’t beat yourself up too much. I am looking forward to this report, though.” Dorian looks at the stump of his left arm, grinding his teeth. Then he attempts to sit up and swing his legs to the floor. “I’ll be all right. Let’s go.” (edited)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 02-Jan-20 08:53 AM

"Yes, Headmaster. That would be prudent." Eisheru notices Dorian attempting to the leave the bed and hurries to his side offering a shoulder to lean on while they walk "Or We can get you a wheel chair If you would prefer."

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 02-Jan-20 08:55 AM

“You didn’t melt a leg, I can walk,” the words are softened by a smile. He stands a little too quickly and wobbles a bit before steadying, “Besides, I’d just push myself in circles.”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 02-Jan-20 09:20 AM

"Maybe we can find one of those fancy motorized ones that people use at the food store..." his lips curl into a smile for the first time today.

Nekosmash 02-Jan-20 09:27 AM

Outside, a staff car has been pulled up for all of you with an extended passenger compartment. The engine revs twice as the driver begins getting it warmed up for travel

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 02-Jan-20 09:32 AM

Eisheru enters the car and helps Dorian get settled. He will remain quite for the journey unless asked a question. He spends a majority of the drive trying to clear his mind through meditation.

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 02-Jan-20 02:12 PM

Seung joins getting into the Vehicle. “Well i could always point you in the direction of the one who gave me this.” Seung says flexing his right arm. “You wouldn’t need one with weapons of course you could just get a normal arm.”

Artifice (Regrupple) 02-Jan-20 02:18 PM

"Depending on the sort of features you're looking for you could even ask the piggen shaman Grupp. His work isn't as elegant as others but he built an entire body for me, enhanced to be able to contain and anchor my spirit. You need not have innate magics to be able to utilize his items."

"Besides, arms are somewhat a specialty of his."

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 02-Jan-20 02:23 PM

“I may have heard that before,” Dorian says. “Have you two met Kensh before? I’ve only Marcion’s opinion of the man to guide my interaction with him.”

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 02-Jan-20 03:10 PM

"Maybe during a council meeting. I don't remember him to be honest."

Artifice (Regrupple) 02-Jan-20 03:38 PM

"Your predecessor was rather personally invested with his case. But with the death of Cornelius Hardt I am one of the few remaining who knew Mr. Kensh before the unfortunate incident. I found him to be a decent man and a good soldier. It seems he has grown and evolved into a proficient leader as well, taking the steps to make Greystar a galactic power."

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 02-Jan-20 03:41 PM

“Do either of you know Kincaide’s opinion on him?”

Artifice (Regrupple) 02-Jan-20 04:24 PM

"She's the one who organized his transfer to Greystar. I believe she respected his talents and didn't want them to go to waste in such a tumultuous time. The President is a shrewd and practical leader, but a good judge of character."

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 02-Jan-20 04:34 PM

“I guess I won’t try to arrest him then,” he says wryly. “Hopefully he’s amenable to a closer working relationship between our governments after all this.”

Nekosmash 02-Jan-20 05:38 PM

Youre brought to the rapidly building Ash City capital, the first floor now nearly done. Several squads of soldiers walk the surrounding streets, and a pair of armored carriers are parked in front, turrets slowly tracking back and forth.

director kensh stands at the top step, in front of the doors to enter the building, flanked by a protection detail of four, a mix of human men and women in dark suits, carrying cut down bullpup like combat rifles

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 02-Jan-20 05:51 PM

Eisheru gets out of the car and lends a hand to Dorian. Ever since meeting back up with the Intelligence Chief, Eisheru seems to never be more than arms length away from him. Eisheru's broken nose and discolored face does not deter him from looking the Director in the eye's before bowing his head in his usual show of respect.

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 02-Jan-20 05:58 PM

“Thanks for the hand,” Dorian says while he walks besides Eisheru He sizes up the security detail as the close the distance. At the top of the stairs, Dorian meets Kensh’s gaze; waiting for introductions.

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 02-Jan-20 06:02 PM

Seung follows the two up the stairs giving a small wave to the driver as he exits the vehicle.

Artifice (Regrupple) 02-Jan-20 06:04 PM

Regulus stays close to Eisheru, giving Kensh a small bow before gesturing towards the others, "Well met Director. Misters Whitaker and Guerra. I trust you know the Tidecaller."

Nekosmash 02-Jan-20 06:05 PM

"Welcome to Acastus, all of you, and I must extend my thanks for both the assistance with the shapers, and for arriving through official channels this time" his gaze seems to linger on dorian, for just an extra second.

"Come inside, please, we have some things to discuss, and I am interested in hearing about how things are going on the UNW side of the tracks"

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 02-Jan-20 06:19 PM

(ooooo busted)

Bartholemew Thrace (Robert) 02-Jan-20 06:21 PM

(Big talk for a wanted murderer)

2

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 02-Jan-20 06:27 PM

Eisheru leads the way hands clasped behind his back. Head not held nearly as high as per the norm, but some confidence seems to have returned to his gait. Seeing one of his projects coming to fruition gives him a sense of renewal.

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 02-Jan-20 06:28 PM

Dorian allows Eisheru to lead and attempts to not lead on how much his amputation has unsettled him.

Nekosmash 02-Jan-20 06:32 PM

Heading into a conference room, the security detail takes station outside, one stepping in just to open, and shut the door behind you. There is a clock on the wall with hands ending in pictures of the moons of Acastus, showing their positions relative to their rise. Right now, it is early third rise, the true night cycle of Acastus where even the light of its weak pulsar sun does not hit the planet. The chairs are a white so clean it hurts to look at for a moment, before your eyes settle. The cloth is soft, and a rich navy blue that also covers the armrests in two thick cushions. Director Kensh takes a seat at the head of the table, and with the press of a button a clear pitcher of water, and several glasses rise from a compartment in the center of the long conference table.

"I'm going to have some food sent in soon as well, so please, make yourselves comfortable, and expect a long conversation"

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 02-Jan-20 06:40 PM

Eisheru takes a seat in-between Dorian and the Director. Hearing the tone in his voice he knows he is going to have to answer some difficult questions. He welcomes the momentary discomfort, just happy to be alive at this point in time. (anyone have a strong desire to start?)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 02-Jan-20 06:43 PM

Dorian grimaces at his gore and dirt soaked clothing. He gives a lopsided shrug before sitting down in one of the chairs next to Eisheru. (edited)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 02-Jan-20 06:53 PM

Seung sits down dropping his pack nearby his chair and taking a glass of water. "Thank you for the water." He says stretching in the chair.

Artifice (Regrupple) 02-Jan-20 08:34 PM

Regulus takes the chair opposite Eisheru on the other side of Kensh, ignoring the refreshments. He sits patiently, watching the others and waiting for them to start.

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 02-Jan-20 08:52 PM

"Well best get to adressing the whale in the tank... Governor Seung, Chief Guerra, myself and a squad of Red Sangha elite inserted via drop pod. The Black Lotus squad didn't survive the landing. We pushed on into the fortress and encountered a fleah shaper mech gplemn monstrosity. Surviving that we arrived at the central "brain"for lack of a better term..." Eisheru has a long pause before continuing. "Where... I made the decision to use my gifts and connect to the presence that was in the room. I was able to find out one thing..." he pulls out his datapad and throws a star map onto the view screens in the conference room. Highlighting a cluster of stars far to the galactic North. "Goizane... This is the hub of the flesh shaper host." Eisheru clears his throat. "As far as what happened in the real world... I cannot tell you much... My will over my own body was... Subverted." Eisheru's head drops. He says no more and he quickly catches a tear hoping no one notices (edited)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 02-Jan-20 09:07 PM

"Yeah he tried to kill us but," Dorian leans forward, eyes wide, "You found them?"

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 02-Jan-20 09:12 PM

"That's what he said isn't it? Of course even if we wanted to go there I'm sure we have to pass a lot of their resources to get to the planet. I can only imagine with what they did to a moon they could do to larger landmasses with time."

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 02-Jan-20 09:17 PM

"Governor... We have no need to go there. All we need do is ask the Suhans to point their great work in the right direction."

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 02-Jan-20 09:20 PM

Seung stops for a moment thinking. "I guess that is something that can be done huh." He sighs. "I apologize for being kind of rude about it, but as much good info it is I was worried poor plans might come together."

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 02-Jan-20 09:21 PM

Dorian snorts, "Blow it up. We can send a scout ship to verify if anyone has qualms about it, but why send a fleet if we can just send a personalized gift."

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 02-Jan-20 09:34 PM

Addressing the Governor, Eisheru speaks plainly, "I will not hide from my poor judgement. You are right, Governor. I made a decision without warning the both of you and those actions nearly killed you both. All I can do now is learn from my mistakes and ensure the risk was worth it. Truly I am sorry." Eisheru pauses again for a time to let all the information sink in.

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 02-Jan-20 10:41 PM

“You’re just lucky I’ve worked with psychics before and didn’t just assume you decided it was a good time to die trying to kill us.” Seung sighs again. “But it’s good info and money can eventually fix Dorians arm issue even if it won’t be his old one so I can’t say it was for nothing. It was a mistake don’t make it again. But besides the earlier mistake what do you think on this Reg and Kensh.” (edited)

Artifice (Regrupple) 03-Jan-20 05:51 AM

"There is a downside to the singularity gun. It will take approximately two weeks for the singularity charge to reach the planet, giving the fleshshapers time to evacuate if they wish and simply move to a neighboring planet. The fleshshapers are parasites, they consume planets and move on. Their home planet holds more informational value for us rather than simply a military target. It could contain a key clue to destroying them or their connection to the scream beast. Destroying the planet would be helpful to be sure, but we would likely see little impact in the overall war."

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 03-Jan-20 12:48 PM

"Then there is another issue that is of a more personal matter but relevant to the conversation. The... Entity that I connected with left something of a mark on me. I was hoping you would have more insight, Headmaster. I can sense a remnant of the entity still. I... I am scared to say the least.." (edited)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 03-Jan-20 01:08 PM

“So are I guess the questions become if we follow that plan, are we holding a gun to our enemies head, if we fire will they even get hit or simply evade it, if we do manage to hit it will it kill all it’s spawn... Including those partially touched by it. I think we really need to scout it out and get more info first.”

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 03-Jan-20 03:09 PM

(I’m waiting to see if Kensh has something to add)

Artifice (Regrupple) 03-Jan-20 03:10 PM

"I agree. Send a small elite infiltration team before we make any decisions about the gun. Though that decision does not lie with us." Regulus looks to Kensh and Eisheru, "This would be a cross polity effort. To that effect the UNW has proposed a galactic council consisting of all known sentient lifeforms, the details of which to be worked out by delegates from each major polity. The main purpose would be communication. It would be a hub for information and trade. Its alternate purpose would be organization in times of galactic level threats such as the fleshshapers or the scream beast. Of course we do not require an answer right away, ideally after your next monthly council. The proposed meeting place is Galatea but that can be negotiated. We want to be clear that this would be a galactic movement of equals that the UNW is merely initiating."

Nekosmash 03-Jan-20 03:20 PM

“You’d have to pass shaper space to verify that. And we have no way of knowing what happens if we blow up that core planet. Something that vast, that large. That intelligent. Would it really be sheltered all in one place?”

“There is so much we do not know”

Nekosmash 03-Jan-20 03:36 PM

“And who is to say what’s left of their intelligence doesn’t send the full might of their worlds to then silence the gun. You saw what happened out in space. We had help. A lot of help, and still barely held them back

He pauses for a moment. “If any of you have arrived by ship and want to leave soon, I’d suggest before the next three days are out. The suha gun is going to implode that moon fragment in four days. I’ve just given the order”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 03-Jan-20 03:46 PM

"I mean this will all due respect to you, Headmaster. But... When we requested aid from the United Nation of Worlds the answer was fend for yourself. There are those that are likely to be none too fond of the idea of another galactic governing body called by the UNW. What's going to stop the UNW from strong arming smaller polities or organizing against another polity whose goals do not align with Gudrun?"

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 03-Jan-20 03:54 PM

“I think I’ll stay and watch. There’ll be plenty of people back home who’d like a report on the Suha gun.” Dorian’s tone takes a stern tone, “Our answer was never a ‘fend for yourself’. If you saw a pack of wolves attacking two people, who would you help first? The one with gun or the one in a wheelchair? Besides, that big ass gun and battleship of yours is enough deterrent for us. We’ll be stronger together than alone.”

Artifice (Regrupple) 03-Jan-20 04:08 PM

"Greystar has fewer planets but population-wise is not a smaller polity. NMC dwarfs us all if size is a concern. Every major polity would have an equal number of representatives. It would in fact be just the arena to air your grievances against us if you have concerns about the way we acted. A greater council is how we avoid war when there is no outer conflict to keep us at peace. We can all exist in harmony but it will be difficult. Open and constant communication is the only way forward."

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 03-Jan-20 04:43 PM

"I appreciate your perspective Dorian, but not all have the capacity nor desire to argue that moral quandry. I agree the time is now to forge stronger bonds of friendship. As long as this proposed council does not become an instrument of the rich and powerful to bully those without the technological might to defend themselves, it can make many things better for many people" (edited)

Artifice (Regrupple) 03-Jan-20 04:51 PM

"That is its intent. Again, merely bring this up to your council to discuss and we can all meet on Galatea to work out the minutiae of how the council would work. As to your other inquiry, I believe we can speak alone after this to better understand what has happened to you. Though I do wish to make it clear to all present that currently the Tidecaller is under no external influence and is sound of mind."

Nekosmash 03-Jan-20 05:01 PM

Reg does feel a slight presence in the room, acting in mes space, around Dorian, like a flower slowly opening its blooms@

(Not harmful, like an awakening)

In Eisheru, an MES sensitivity that once smoldered, begins to blaze like a supernova. Something on Gudrun, in Rebirth, seems to call out to each of them

Artifice (Regrupple) 03-Jan-20 05:42 PM

Regulus looks at Eisheru and tilts his head, studying this new power but not commenting on it yet.

Nekosmash 03-Jan-20 05:44 PM

(Kensh made his points and we just kinda moved past it, so that’s all he’s got for now)

Artifice (Regrupple) 03-Jan-20 05:46 PM

"So are we in agreement for you to withhold on firing the singularity gun until we have more information?"

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 03-Jan-20 05:52 PM

"From what the Director had to say it sounds like it would draw more attention than problems it would solve."

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 03-Jan-20 06:01 PM

Eisheru notices the Headmaster tilting his head but says nothing of it. "As far as the other proposition, that will obviously require the full Confederation council before any decision can be made as to our participation."

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 03-Jan-20 06:09 PM

“Don’t they some how pull us out of spike space too? I feel like scouting out the area might be an issue or firing a weapon that uses spike drives.” (edited)

Nekosmash 03-Jan-20 06:10 PM

“Let then pull it out of spike. It’ll still explode. And they’d have to know it was coming. We don’t know if it’s a passive effect or not”

Artifice (Regrupple) 03-Jan-20 06:17 PM

"I was able to counter the effect when Mr. Withers and I ran into one of their drones. I would not be opposed to being on whatever team we might send to investigate."

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 03-Jan-20 07:18 PM

“Recon by fire isn’t the worst option here. Rather than risking more of our people.”

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 04-Jan-20 07:52 AM

"Any decision to fire the gun will have to involve the Suhans. It is something that will be discussed in the immediate future. Do you have any more questions Director? Headmaster?" (edited)

Artifice (Regrupple) 04-Jan-20 10:30 AM

"None that need involve everyone. If I could have yours and the Director's attention for a moment after I have a personal matter to discuss."

Nekosmash 04-Jan-20 11:51 AM

(I’m good if all else is)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 04-Jan-20 11:54 AM

(I’m good. Plenty of time left in system for Dorian to meet with Kensh or whoever privately to discuss intel agreements and such)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 04-Jan-20 12:30 PM

Eisheru nods in acknowledgement of Regulus

(yeah I'm good to move on)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 04-Jan-20 12:32 PM

“Well while coming for this was eventful I guess I need to take up that advice soon.” (I’m good to move on.) (edited)

Artifice (Regrupple) 04-Jan-20 01:20 PM

(We all good

)

Nekosmash 04-Jan-20 01:43 PM

(We can split into threads. 9xp and 50,000 credits for those involved. Reg has 3 and 5k for this first stage but he’s just getting going)

Ephraim Cantor (Einer) 04-Jan-20 01:43 PM

(Awesome scenes guys. Glad we all survived) (edited)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 04-Jan-20 01:47 PM

(hell yeah. Great scene everyone.)

Severus Thatcher (Seung) 04-Jan-20 01:48 PM

(Fun times nearly dying with everyone)

Artifice (Regrupple) 04-Jan-20 01:49 PM

(I dont get 9xp?? Lol jk, glad I could pop in for a fun scene at the end)

Reza Collins (Eisheru) 04-Jan-20 01:50 PM

(thank you both for saving me!)