Intro: Strange, beautiful, deadly

Feb 3, 2022 9:34 am

Narrator

It's been a longer voyage than you're used to, headed for the isolated planet of Aphrodite Prime. From what you've gathered, that little corner of the solar sector has kept itself away from most of the comings and goings between the stars, slowly becoming some kind of artist utopia. And since art doesn't exactly put food on the table, your employer saw a business opportunity in trading goods the planet needs in exchange for some of its exquisite creations to be sold for a marked up price elsewhere. At long last, the speakers of the Aurora, the small merchant vessel you're aboard announce you'll soon be reaching Aphrodite Prime and you should prepare yourselves for the landing.

OOC:

Take some time to introduce your characters, why they're here, what they may have been doing etc. Feel free to have them take any role on the ship if you want (Pilot, Engineer etc) except that of Captain.

Feb 3, 2022 1:19 pm

Dan'lo flips on the comms, and gently clicks the 'scan' button before spinning lazily in his chair. He doubts he'll pick up anything useful at this distance, not to mention it's likely to be last weeks news, at best. Still, the number of voices he's had to listen to lately are just a bit limited. The way Colin rolls his R's when he's distracted, it's like a rusty chain across Dan'lo's spine. It'll be good to get dirtside and bask in the chatter of the masses.

Turning back to the comms, Dan'lo wonders if he shouldn't learn how the rest of these buttons work someday...

Last edited February 3, 2022 1:19 pm

Narrator

Feb 3, 2022 2:51 pm

Narrator

The feed on Dan'lo's screen gradually gets flooded with all sorts of stories about new art exhibitions, critic reports and theoretical analysis of modern artistic trends. It's nothing useful unless he's desperate to pass the time till landing. Even a quick scroll through the headlines however reveals that Aphrodite Prime's residents seem to be particularly interested in art that explores existential dread, the struggle of being and man's role relative to everything around him.

OOC:

If Dan'lo wants to look further into it, he'll have to roll Administer, Know or another applicable skill that can be reasonably argued (such as Program to whip together a quick filtering script that'll yield the gist of it, plus Intelligence or Wisdom, whichever's higher. Just laying it all out here to give you an idea of how such things will be handled down the road, since checking Dan'lo's sheet it's probably going to be a straight d20 roll for him xD

Feb 3, 2022 3:31 pm

Ben flips off the intercom after making his announcement and returns his attention to the controls in front of him. The voyage had been quiet but launch and landing are always the parts to most worry about. He hits the communicator controls and starts broadcasting. "Aurora, to Aphrodite Control, Aurora to Aphrodite Control. We are on approach vector Delta-Sigma-One-Nine. Requesting landing clearance. Over."

Feb 3, 2022 4:42 pm

Killdare had been sleeping or at least trying. He'd been uncomfortable the whole flight, still sporting a nasty cough since he was recovering from that last bit of nastiness on Gideon-7. Figured he get fragged with only a few weeks left till his muster-out date. Nothing like a piece of shrapnel to the lung to make you rethink your career path. He reached into his medkit and fished around until he found the bottle of pills he was looking for. Popping the cap, he swallowed a couple and washed them down with a swig of synthehol.
"Physician heal thyself" he said under his breath then coughed again, a nasty wet cough, and spat back into his cup. He stared at the sputum in the cup. "Well at least no blood. That's a good sign" he thought. He'd been lucky. He'd seen plenty of jarheads cough their last breath with a similar wound.

He'd spent a few weeks recovering and then looked for the first ship out. He had bounced around a few planets until his creds ran out, and then found a paid berth on the Aurora as the ship's medic. He didn't care where it was going, he hadn't even asked, he needed the creds and it seemed like an easy gig while he was getting back on his feet.

Last edited February 3, 2022 5:26 pm

Feb 4, 2022 12:05 am

Colin is sitting cross-legged on the floor of his quarters, meditating with his eyes closed and the lights dimmed. In his mind's eye, he is trying to release himself from his attachments. Thoughts of his homeworld have been intruding on his calm as of late. He tries to let the memories of the hot sun on his neck or the smell of fresh mountain air pass through him, but he gets tangled in them instead.

"I've been in this tin can for too long," he thinks, but then the smell of recycled air and the hum of the engines fills his mind instead. It's like he's been in a waking stasis through this extended voyage, unable to move forward with his quest. He lets out a sight, opens his eyes, and decides to try something else.

He lifts the leather belt resting on the foot of the bed and clasps it on. His two holy weapons cradled in their hide sheaths that he had crafted from a barantha lizard he slew when he came of age. He draws his laser pistol - an old Sigmar 77 he had restored to working order and tuned religiously - in his right hand. He draw his monoblade - a black carbon fiber xiphos with a handle handle made from horn - in his left hand. Then, he begins to run through all of the Katas from beginning to end, then back down from end to beginning. He does this over and over again until his mind is clear, focused. There is only the holy trinity: the blade, the gun, and himself.

Then a voice comes blaring over the intercom declaring their arrival. He wipes the sweat from his brow and lets out a long, measured sigh. At last, the journey can continue. He knows his impatience is dangerous, and he tries to center himself as gets readiy for security detail. He adjusts his hat and heads out into the corridor, looking for the others.

Feb 4, 2022 9:13 am

Topher wipes sweat from his brow, leaving a dark stain of oil on his forehead. Grabbing the wrench he continues his work adjusting the primary feed before going in for landing. His big shoulders were really a impedement in getting into the tight spaces in the engine room. A little adjustment and the ship should purr like a kitten, though he remind himself that the catalytic capacitor should really be switched soon.

With the final check in place he reaches for his communicator to inform the rest that they're good to go. "Everything in order down here."

Feb 4, 2022 12:02 pm

Alex hurredly finishes up cleaning the kitchen when he hears the announcement. He's brimming with excitement at the thought of visiting Aphrodite Prime. He's a fan of a few well known sculpture artists on that planet, and he hopes to be able to visit a few exhibits during his time there.
At the same time, he has a strange sense of something foreboding, and he's not sure if it's just his imagination, or his psychic sense. Probably my imagination, besides we got Topher and Colin to take care of danger. After doing a quick stock check, he heads into the corridor.

Feb 4, 2022 1:27 pm

Dan'lo finishes scanning the feeds, Nothing of note in the news...", that was always good. The quieter the better, nothing like showing up for a shopping trip to find the locals burning down the spaceport. This should be easier credits than most jobs he'd been forced to take. His poor parents are probably shaking their heads, said he'd never amount to anything after dropping out of Primary schooling. But, it's really who you know, Public school diploma, 2 college degrees, Merit award, all paid for with barely a day in a classroom. Success does come from hard work, but it doesn't have to be as hard as they want it to be.

Anyways, back to the present, cinching up his straps Dan'lo settled in for re-entry. Time to trade knick-knacks for paddy-wacks and make some profit.

Narrator

Feb 4, 2022 2:44 pm

Narrator

It takes a second before Ben's landing request is answered by a robotic voice through the comm. "Your ship has been identified as an off-world frigate. Planetary defenses will activate upon entering orbit."

"Not a very artistic way to welcome anybody, right?" Captain Santoro smirks at Ben, before pressing the manual button to respond in person. "This is Captain Bernardo Santoro of the Aurora to Aphrodite Prime. Hold up with the guns, we are but a merchant ship looking to trade our goods with yours and we'll be on our way. Requesting landing clearance, over."

It takes another moment, just enough for the vibe to start feeling awkward before the robotic voice returns through the comm. "Trade contract number requested." Captain Santoro seems to be taken aback by this, cocking his head back and raising an eyebrow. "Trade contract number, Aphrodite Prime?" he speaks to the comm, his confusion evident on the tone of his voice. "We're basically here to establish trade with you people..."

Just then, Ben notices the ship already entered orbit and it's now past the point where its course could be reversed. Just as the realization hits him, buzzers go off and lights start flashing.

WARNING! INCOMING MISSILES DETECTED!

Feb 4, 2022 4:11 pm

"Drek!" Ben does not wait for his Captain's orders, his hands already activating controls and setting automated systems calculating. "Plotting escape course. Initiating evasive maneuvers!"

Feb 4, 2022 5:55 pm

Topher tumbles backwards at the sudden movement before he's able to catch himself. He struggles back to the internal communicator and calls out "What the hell is happening?"

Feb 4, 2022 6:40 pm

Killdare reels backward against the gurney, dropping his cup. "Christ almighty what are they doing up there?" This isn't his first rodeo, so his first priority.. "strap in and hang on". After his harness is secure, he activates the comm unit, "Medical to Bridge, hey Ben what's going on up there? We got pirates?"

Last edited February 4, 2022 6:45 pm

Feb 5, 2022 2:37 am

Damn, I should've trusted my sense! Alex quickly sprints to his cabin and puts on his vaccsuit. Probably overkill, but better safe than sorry. Alright sense, I'm listening to you now!

Feb 5, 2022 5:18 am

As the lights and sirens paint the interior of the ship red, Colin steadies and secures himself along the handrails. As he makes his way to the bridge in the hopes of make himself useful, he is reminded of an old proverb:

A crisis is an opportunity riding the dangerous wind.

He prepared himself to seize these opportunities head on

Last edited February 5, 2022 5:18 am

Narrator

Feb 5, 2022 11:15 am

Narrator

Ben leads the ship to a rough turn and dive, avoiding one missile as it swooshes by but before he can enjoy his success, a muted blast rocks the Aurora, then a second one immediately follows it. The vessel begins a rapid descent and in trying to find out what the hell is happening, Ben notices that pretty much every instrument has gone off, save for a few archaic mechanical needle indicators. That's when it hits him: the missiles were probably carrying EMP warheads that fried the ship's electronics, first one blasting whatever force field may have been shielding it and the second killing the electric parts. That would explain why they also detonated despite him avoiding the first one, all they needed was simply to get close enough.

OOC:

Gonna need a Pilot+WIS check from Ben to find a safe place on the surface to land the Aurora. Tohper can try a Fix+INT check to maybe restore the engines partially and assist the pilot.

Feb 5, 2022 11:31 am

Ben ignores the question from intercom. Let the Captain handle that. Ben smiles with satisfaction as the first missle flies past. Then the ship is rocked twice and the ship goes dead.

Fortunately, Ben never approaches a planet without scanning for emergency landing options. It's just a matter of which one he can persuade the crippled Aurora to reach.

Last edited February 5, 2022 11:35 am

Rolls

Pilot - (2d6+2)

(66) + 2 = 14

Feb 5, 2022 12:38 pm

"Bloody hell!" Topher exclaim as all the electronics dies in a flash. He quickly get to work, hoping to restore some power in secondary drive.

Rolls

Fix - (2d6+0)

(36) = 9

Feb 5, 2022 5:08 pm

Dan'lo watches the screens in front of him go dark. Perhaps a decision to learn what those buttons do was premature.

It appears Ben has his hands full, not that Dan'lo's 'ship skillz' amount to much. Well, in times of crisis, go with what you know. Leaning his face down to the console, he gently whispers. "Lady Aurora, I know we haven't known each other that long, but you're one mighty impressive ship, sleek lines, powerful engines. Those missiles were a surprise, but let's not let that get us down. Me and the boys would be really grateful if you could just grab a fresh breath and power back up for us..."

OOC:

So 9 ... :)

Last edited February 5, 2022 5:50 pm

Rolls

CHA/Talk (Specialist) - (3d6+2)

(234) + 2 = 11

Feb 5, 2022 7:08 pm

As the ship shudders and shakes, Colin makes his way onto the bridge. He does not bother to ask what is the problem is - seing Dan'lo whispering to the ship is surely a bad sign. He uses his eyes and wits to determine what is going on instead. Electronics down after warning systems were engaged and a blast hit them - missile fire took their power plant? An EMP blast maybe? Somebody, pirates maybe, knocking them out of the sky. Probably want the cargo, which means they'll be boarded if they can't get away.

He pulls the Sigmar 77* from its holster and checks to see if it was damaged in case it was an EMP.

* - Laser pistol.

Feb 5, 2022 8:57 pm

The med-bay goes dark as all the power goes out to the ship.
"Oh that's not good. Figures. I barely survive that firefight, only to be smashed into a million pieces on some other dirtball. Well, fuck that. I'm not going out without a fight." Killdare unclips his harness and uses the manual overide to open the door to the main corridor. Emergency lights along the floor light his way as he stumbles to the engineering section.

When he gets there he finds Topher madly trying to restore whatever power he can.
"Let me give you a hand. I know a little something about these electronic systems at least."

OOC:

OK.. So if I can do all that, I'm going to try to Help Topher with getting power/nav systems online. I'll make two rolls. One for Fix (which I don't have) and one for Program (which I do). Use whichever seems more appropriate. Alternatively, I suppose I could be rolling for Deal with a Crisis?

Both my rolls suck so I guess it doesn't matter... lol

Last edited February 6, 2022 5:58 am

Rolls

Program / Int - (2d6+1)

(31) + 1 = 5

Fix / Int - (2d6+0)

(21) = 3

Narrator

Feb 8, 2022 7:33 am

Narrator

With a bit of tweaking, Topher manages to redirect most of the power from the spare internal combustion generator to the thrusters, providing Ben with just enough thrust to pilot the Aurora like some ancient jet airplane as it glides through the atmosphere. It's not an easy task to bring the ship down safely and Ben quickly realizes that's largely related to the air itself being rather thin and not providing enough resistance. If the crew make it down in one piece, chances are they'll need some kind of respiratory device to leave the vessel.

A quick check from Colin informs him his laser pistol is still intact and mostly functional. Apparently the ship's hull and electronics took the brunt of the EMP blast, inadvertently providing a kind of shielding to the smaller circuits inside the firearm.

As the Aurora drops in altitude, Ben notices a wide, flat area laced with large, symmetrical patterns that he identifies as some sort of crop circles. Aiming for his landing spot of choice, he guides the ship into an emergency landing, warning everyone to hold tight. Since it lacks any sort of wheel-based landing gear, the Aurora struggles with the friction on its underbelly, but after several bumps, eventually stops. A quick check on whatever systems are still functional reveals the ship is mostly operational, although it lacks the power required to take off again unless repaired.

"Expertly handled" Captain Santoro tells Ben with a pat on the shoulder, the tone of his voice one of relief no matter how much the Captain tries to maintain composure. He then turns on the ship's internal comm system to address the rest of the crew. "Everyone report to the bridge immediately."

Once everyone is gathered, Captain Santoro lays out the plan. "I don't know why these idiots shot us down, but I'll get to the bottom of it. I'm gonna need a report on the ship's status and what's required to get it back running again. Once we know that, we reach out to the locals for assistance to perform any necessary repairs. Gonna need you to be cautious, as we're unaware of the planet's status. They might be oppressed by some tyrannical government and eager to assist us, but they might as well be equally xenophobic, so discretion is advised. Questions?"

OOC:

The whole Deal With A Crisis mechanic is a part of spaceship combat. This was more of a cinematic, so the rules on that are irrelevant.

Feb 8, 2022 7:46 am

Killdare drops by the medbay and then his quarters, to gather up his gear, then makes his way to the bridge.

When the captain is done, Killdare speaks up..
"Two actually sir. First, that was a bit of a bumpy ride, no offense, is anyone in need of medical attention? Second. If I heard you right, that atmosphere isn't really going to be all that breathable, do we have sufficient respirators in the ship stores for everyone?"

Captain Santoro

Feb 8, 2022 8:07 am

Captain Santoro

"There's half a dozen vaccsuits on board. I see one's already been employed" the Captain muses, glancing at Alex. "You go ahead and take 'em, I'm staying with the ship to await your return. Anyone in need of healing, speak up."

Feb 8, 2022 11:05 am

Topher hangs back and nods as the captain and the rest speaks. When asked about his condition he finally pipes up.

"I'm good to go. Can't say the same about the engines though. Most of the electronics were fried, don't know how much can be salvaged. Will need to do a visual inspection of the outside to see the extent of the damage, but we're all breathing so looks like no serious hull breach."

Feb 8, 2022 11:56 am

I knew the vaccsuit would be useful. Must've been my psychic sense. . . Alex takes off his helmet and looks around at everyone. "Glad to see most of us are alright." When he's nervous or angry, Alex's Slavic accent becomes stronger than usual. Right now he's shaken up by the rough landing, but he's trying to put on a brave face. "I'm going to go scout the area. Captain, do you know if we're anywhere near a city or a town?"

Feb 8, 2022 12:04 pm

Ben answers the Captain's praise with a grunt and stays quiet as the others talk. "We aren't too near one because I aimed away from them Our landing ruined someone's crops though." Ben turns to Santoro. "My main question Captain is what kind of idiots hired us and why were we fool enough to say yes?"

Feb 8, 2022 3:02 pm

"I am uninjured," Colin confirms. He speaks slowly with clear enunciation.

"We should be vigilant; our attacker did not fire at us for target practice. Their choice of ordinance suggests they will seek us out and claim the ship or the cargo for themselves."

"I will assist Topher with the engines and keep a watchful eye on the cargo. All paths lead through this event."

Last edited February 8, 2022 3:05 pm

Feb 8, 2022 4:36 pm

Dan'lo whispers a "Thank you" to the Aurora before standing.

"Hang on Alex, let me grab a suit and I'll go with you. No reason to completely split up, all Horror-vid style." Dan'lo heads back into the ship to retrieve and don a Vac suit.

Last edited February 9, 2022 12:20 pm

Feb 8, 2022 8:10 pm

"I'm not going to be much help with those engines. Let me get my suit and the three of us will go. We gotta be careful, we have no idea <cough> <cough> what's out there." it appears Killdare's cough hasn't gotten much better on the journey. He follows Dan'lo and grabs a vac suit, slipping it on as he has done countless times before. He hopes they won't encounter any restless natives. He knows he's in no shape for any real trouble.

Feb 11, 2022 4:17 am

Colin will strap on a vac suit before beginning repairs, partially because he might need to go extra-vehicular, but also in case the pirates (or whoever their attackers were) blow another hole in the ship while they are sitting ducks he wants to be ready. He makes sure his weapons are easily accessible.

He finds Topher and begins coordinating work on the ship. "Let me know how I can be of service. I don't have much experience with spacecraft but I can strip a laser pistol down to its bolts and back again."

Last edited February 11, 2022 4:21 am

Captain Santoro

Feb 12, 2022 7:16 am

Captain Santoro

"Our employers never mentioned anything about trade contracts. If we live to see them again, I have some uncomfortable questions to ask them. Killdare, Dan'lo and Alex, you three go out to find assistance. Don't know if there's a settlement nearby, but if we landed on crops, there has to be some sort of farm or caretaker's hut around. They'll guide you further, but be cautious how much you share about us. Ben, Colin, Topher, check the ship for damages, what you can repair and what you need brought back to you."

Feb 12, 2022 11:18 am

Topher nods at the captain and heads back to the machine room with Colin. "Don't even know where to begin, it all seems fried. Let's see if we can get the primary drive up and running, without that the rest won't matter."

Feb 12, 2022 12:45 pm

"Even primary drive won't help if the control lines are fried." Ben grumbles and moves to catch Topher and Colin before they get too far. He pulls out his dataslab and pulls up a complex diagram of the ship's electronics. "We'll need to run circuit tracers over the whole system to see what can still carry current. I'll start from the bridge. You two can start from the engine room. We'll meet in the middle and share how screwed we are."

Last edited February 12, 2022 12:46 pm

Feb 12, 2022 3:33 pm

Dan'lo gathers with Alex and John inside the airlock, ready to cycle out and see what this new wonderful world has in store for them.

Feb 12, 2022 6:16 pm

"A'ight. Let's do this. And let's not get into too much trouble. Not like we have a division of troopers backin' us up."
Killdare dons his helmet, secures and checks the seals, then checks the seals of the others making sure their vac suits are properly worn. He adjusts his gear and makes sure his medkit and commpad are at the ready.
"Should be someone around here workin' these fields. I guess when we meet the natives you better do the talkin' Mr. Strata. That's kinda your thing ain't it?"
Killdare cycles the airlock, and steps off the ship. It's good to be back on solid ground after that little shake-up.

Last edited February 12, 2022 6:19 pm

Feb 12, 2022 10:07 pm

Colin nods in confirmation of the repair plan and heads briskly to the engine room to start the laborious job of running circuit tracer tests through the whole ship.

He starts by kneeling on the floor. He bows low and makes contact with with The Oversoul. He is flooded with the calm and confidence of being part of a timeless, infinite force. Then he rises and begins coordinating with Topher.

"How about I start with the buffer panels?" he suggests.

The Narrator

Feb 13, 2022 10:44 am

The Narrator

Topher, Ben and Colin take the time to run a full inspection of the ship. Most of its core functions appear to be operational somewhat, running on the backup internal combustion engine but it won't be more than a day or two before it runs out of fuel. This should keep the vessel's vital operations like cabin pressure and ventilation working, until they're not. The spike drive is seriously damaged and most of the circuitry is indeed fried, so it would take extensive repairs to replace the wiring and fix the engine before the Aurora can fly again, the kind that requires a dedicated spaceport.

Alex, Dan'lo and Killdare exit the craft to find themselves on a field full of tall plants resembling some crossbreed between wheat and corn. Vaccsuit tracker systems indicate a warm temperature outside with zero winds, which makes sense knowing now the atmosphere is mostly composed of a thin, inert gas. There is a sense of calmness about, a stark and somewhat unsettling contrast to just having been shot with missiles and crash landing, as if your arrival has disturbed the peace of this place. This feeling is further accentuated when sensors indicate life signs nearby. Following the display, the trio locates what seemed from afar to be just a big boulder, but from up close looks... like the interior of the boulder itself is hollow, since the readings indicate the life signs are inside it. If this is supposed to be the farmhouse overlooking the fields, it is expertly camouflaged as it blends into the natural scenery.

Feb 13, 2022 12:38 pm

It's kind of nice, being here. His whole life he's only known the crowded and dingy urban environments, he used to entertain himself imagining settling on a nice planet with greenery and become a farmer. "I'm gonna go knock and see if anyone. . . or anything. . . is home." Alex carefully approaches the boulder to knock on it, ready to flee as soon as something dangerous happens.

Feb 13, 2022 3:50 pm

Dan'lo follows Alex shaking his head. Take the highly trained Courtesan out of the city and instant tourist... But the course of action is the correct one, even if the enthusiasm could be tempered. Dan'lo double checks his laser pistol at his hip. Trying to adjust it so that it's obvious, but not threatening.

Feb 13, 2022 6:56 pm

"Let's be careful," Killdare repeats. He's never served with these men and they definitely don't look like soldiers, and maybe that's a good thing in this situation. No one likes a bunch of ground-pounders showing up on their doorstep.
Killdare was hardly the best choice for a "first contact" situation either, so he was going to have to hope these two were better suited for the task. He slowed his pace and lagged slightly behind the other two, instinctively looking for cover in case the shooting starts.

Last edited February 13, 2022 7:05 pm

Feb 15, 2022 3:02 am

Ben curses a blue streak when he takes in all of the survey data. "Not even enough left to jury rig something. If this planet doesn't have full spaceport facilities we just became residents."

Feb 16, 2022 12:59 am

Colin concurs with Ben.

"I wonder if the pirates are waiting for us to starve to death before they come and claim the ship. I heard stories from a man from my order about an operation that would down freighters on a hostile environment planet. They'd give them 2 weeks for their air cycles to run out and then go in, uncontested. The cowardice of some astounds me."

"If this is how they are operating, at least it buys us time. I will do a tally of food, water, and oxygen reserves on the ship so we can ration accordingly."

OOC:

Colin will survey their resources as described. How long can we hold out?

Feb 16, 2022 1:31 am

"Those were planetary defense missiles. If its piracy, its official piracy." Ben observes.

Feb 16, 2022 1:16 pm

"Most official pirates have the common decency to do it via taxes," Topher's voice comes from under one of the consoles. "Though in my experience, officals ain't always too careful when it comes to where their missiles and such end up."

Feb 18, 2022 8:48 pm

"Ben, I appreciate this information. I wasn't on the bridge when everything started, and since we've been busy with repairs I am still catching up. If it is the will of this planet's leadership to down our craft, we are in a much different situation."

"This is we know for certain: the ship is not going anywhere. Once we've inventoried our supplies and estimated how long we can hold out, we can formulate a plan. In the meantime I recommend we shut down as many systems as possible to preserve resources and to limit our EM and heat signature to make it as hard as possible to detect our exact location."

The Narrator

Feb 21, 2022 9:59 am

The Narrator

Alex, Dan'lo and Killdare
You hear a soft pulsing hum, which you trace to a soft vibration in the ground, or perhaps the boulder in front of you. Seconds later, a soft voice seamlessly blends into the tones. "We do not want any trouble. Please leave, offworlders".

Ben, Colin and Topher
The ship has enough food to last for about a month, while the water could only hold on for a couple of days. The problem is that the former requires the ship to be operational in order to be maintained from going bad, while the latter is a similar case as it largely depends on systems that recycle and filter water. Since they've checked out that the fuel for the backup combustion generator is going to last for a day or two, that's pretty much when the water and air supply run out, whereas the food could be maintained for a few more days before it's spoiled.

Feb 21, 2022 2:06 pm

"Hello and thank you for that greeting. We, too, do not want any trouble. If you could kindly direct us toward a town or whatever passes for the like here, we'd be happy to be on our way. We'd hate to be standing here if your government decided to launch more missiles at us."

OOC:

Talk check

12 :)

Last edited February 21, 2022 2:06 pm

Rolls

I'm talking here - (3d6+2)

(446) + 2 = 16

The Narrator

Feb 22, 2022 11:07 am

The Narrator

"Oh they'll hunt you down. Us too, and anyone else who helps you, so don't expect much. Off-worlders only bring war and disease and destruction. Look what you did to our crops. Our finely arranged crops. If I were you, I'd hunker down forever or find a way off the planet on my own. As soon as possible."

Feb 22, 2022 11:57 am

Alex sighs. "These people don't seem to be the helpful type, Dan'lo." Alex goes to an elevated place to search the area with his binoculars, looking for any sign of a town or city.

Rolls

Looking for town or city. NOTICE+1 - (2D6+1)

(26) + 1 = 9

Feb 22, 2022 12:30 pm

"Ah, so this is one of those worlds. Nice, if they didn't want us here, they could have said so before shooting us down. Tell you what, we'll make camp here until you tell me the direction of the closest settlement. "

Then, if it helps, we can blow up your little rock to prove you didn't help us..., keeping thoughts to self.

Feb 22, 2022 5:38 pm

Killdare looks around a bit nervously and then says to Dan'lo quietly.
"I don't think we should be sitting here in the open. They don't seem too friendly, and if they summon some sort of constabulary we could get picked up and arrested. I think we might want to head back to the ship and warn the others we aren't getting a brass band reception. Plus maybe get some more muscle in case things take a turn."

The Narrator

Feb 25, 2022 1:58 pm

The Narrator

Alex scans the surrounding area and sure enough, spots some sort of settlement in the distance. From afar, it looks unwalled and built in some extremely symmetrical fashion, slightly reminiscent of the crop circles the Aurora landed on. It should be a few hours of walking to get there, assuming there's nothing to slow the group down. It also means if there's anything coming in from there to follow up the missile strikes, it should be here soon, especially if it's using some faster form of transportation than walking.

OOC:

For clarification, I'm not saying the settlement is the same shape as the crop circles, just that it's built in an equally orderly fashion.

Feb 26, 2022 3:05 am

"I found some sort of town in the distance." Alex puts away his binoculars as he's saying this. "Could be our next destination, though they're probably not the friendly sort. Especially if guys like our talking rock here are trying to hide from them." Alex reports what he finds(spotting a settlement, the direction and estimated distance) to the rest of the team via radio.

Feb 26, 2022 5:15 am

"Let's rendezvous with the others before we check it out. Safety in numbers and all that."

Feb 26, 2022 6:20 am

Colin will exit the ship (properly suited up in his vac suit) and explore the immediate crash site and explore how much of a mess their ship caused. He's wondering how exposed the ship is from the air, and if it would be worth it to try to cover it up.

OOC:

Looking at the crash site, is there an obvious visual, like a skid mark through the vegetation, where we went down? How big a job would the be to try to cover it up from aerial observation by, say, cutting down plants and layering them on the ship and surrounding crash site? Would it be more like a few hours, a day, or more?

Last edited February 26, 2022 2:53 pm

Feb 26, 2022 2:51 pm

"Good eyes Alex. Mark the bearing and let's head back to the others. Johns right, we'll need to stick together if this place is as hospitable as the rock says."

Feb 26, 2022 10:18 pm

Len says:

OOC:

Looking at the crash site, is there an obvious visual, like a skid mark through the vegetation, where we went down? How big a job would the be to try to cover it up from aerial observation by, say, cutting down plants and layering them on the ship and surrounding crash site? Would it be more like a few hours, a day, or more?

OOC:

There is, indeed, a skid mark. Covering the Aurora from aerial observation though is practically impossible, as besides the skid mark itself, there's also the perfectly grown crop circles you messed up during the landing, giving your presence and location away.

Mar 3, 2022 12:57 pm

Dan'lo and the others trudge back into the fields following the newly minted, rural landing strip towards the downed ship. Approaching the ramp, he comms the others.

"Hey guys, we're back. We spotted a settlement and the farmers don't seem all that friendly. The settlement seems a little far for us to be split up, in case we find help or not..."

Mar 3, 2022 9:07 pm

Colin responds:

"Friendly or not, we will need their help. The ship is going nowhere without proper repair facilities."

"Captain, how do you feel about trading the cargo to pay for repair fees? We could negotiate a fair price on your behalf. A complete cargo manifest would be helpful."

Captain Santoro

Mar 5, 2022 10:54 pm

Captain Santoro

"I'm torn, really. Looks like these people don't want to trade for some reason, but the cargo's all we got to offer in exchange for repairs. Thing is, if we all stick together, either we set out and leave the cargo with the ship and risk losing it, or we stay here to guard it and hope someone shows up with good intentions. It's a lose-lose deal. I say we flip the script. They wanna shoot down or loot the Aurora? I say we commandeer one of their ships and get the hell outta here!"

Mar 6, 2022 12:45 am

"Well. So far it doesn't look like the natives are going to be friendly. I mean they did shoot us out of the sky. And if we stay here we are sitting ducks. They know where they are, and if the natives are to be believed, they'll be coming soon. You are still in command captain, but if you want my two cents worth, we gotta get out of there. And without the ship, there may not be any other way off this dustball except to commandeer one of theirs."

Last edited March 6, 2022 12:45 am

Mar 6, 2022 1:37 am

Ben sighs. "Getting the ship repaired requires either a willing partner or we have to take over a facility and hold it against whatever passes for security on this planet for long enough to affect repairs." Ben points out. "Stealing a ship is basically the same but without having to hold it for days. I say we strip the Aurora for useable parts and supplies and find a place to hide."

Mar 6, 2022 2:24 am

"I see your point. I am oath-bound to protect the crew and cargo. Captain, if you wish to abandon the cargo then I ask to release me from that oath in regards to the cargo. I will continue to protect you and the crew in whatever venture you all see fit."

Mar 6, 2022 9:32 pm

"Stay light, move fast."

Dan'lo looks around the cabin, "Yes, I know it's from some holo-vid, but it makes sense. They didn't want us to land and someone's probably on the way to lock us up. So the sooner we make it to 'Not Here', the better we'll be. I'm not sure how much of the ship we can take with us, but all your personal stuff, and then food and medical seems to be the priority."

Mar 6, 2022 11:45 pm

"Agreed. Faster is better. I got my kit, but let me take a once over of the Medbay, and then I'll be ready to head out."
Killdare double-times it to the Med Bay, and makes sure he has plenty of supplies for his Medkit and a few doses of the most necessary drugs, then meets back up with the rest of the crew in the cargo bay.
"Ready to roll out cap'n".

Mar 7, 2022 2:01 am

"Captain, is there anything from the cargo that you would like us to bring? Otherwise I am ready."

Mar 7, 2022 11:02 am

"Never done grand theft starcraft before. Just need to grab my go-bag and I'm good to... well... go," Topher says and quickly makes his way to his quarters and grabs his backpack and shotgun. He looks at a few personal items left behind and shrugs before muttering to himself "Never own more than you can carry."

Mar 8, 2022 7:10 pm

"Well. Once. On Mandok 5 we had to commandeer an enemy ship. But that's a long story better left for another time."

Mar 10, 2022 4:31 am

Furmyr says:

"Never own more than you can carry."

"A reasonable oath to live by."

OOC:

If there are tools around that might help hotwire a spaceship, I'll take a set of those.

Captain Santoro

Mar 10, 2022 8:29 pm

Captain Santoro

"Not a lot of useful stuff we can take with us, but grab what you can. And yes Mr. Wood, you are hereby relieved of your oath in regards to the cargo. Mr. Zvezda, snap out of whatever funk you're in. We travel fast, we lay low. Head towards that city without drawing much attention to ourselves, grab a ship and head out. Got it?"

Mar 10, 2022 9:49 pm

"Copy that Cap'n"

Mar 14, 2022 10:50 am

When Alex knew that their going to abandon the ship and head out, his head starts to spin. I knew something bad was going to happen, but not like this. This is going to be such a pain. He snaps back when he hears the voice of Santoro. "Yes sir, I'll get to it. I'll go ahead and keep watch for any signs of danger."

Alex steps out and waits for the rest of the crew. While waiting, he scans the area toward the settlement, looking for any sign of danger.

Rolls

Looking for any potential danger. NOTICE+1 - (2D6+1)

(26) + 1 = 9

Mar 14, 2022 2:55 pm

Topher heads outside to wait with Alex as soon as he's ready. "Don't think anyone should head out on their own until we know more."

Mar 14, 2022 7:06 pm

Ben goes to grab his gear and then swings by the ship's cockpit. If it wasn't already fried by the EMP, Ben wants to dig out the ship's black box and make sure it is destroyed. He is not keen on leaving information behind.

Mar 15, 2022 7:45 am

After grabbing a few things and destroying the Aurora's black box, the group sets out towards the settlement in the distance on foot. The farmland scenery gives way to rolling hills made of some reddish iridescent material, beautiful but hard to tell whether natural or the result of terraforming. Both plant and animal life seem absent as the seven of you march through, the first signs of life being something Alex sees through his binoculars: some kind of vehicle, moving fast a few inches off the ground and closing in.

Mar 15, 2022 7:41 pm

"Trouble, probably," Colin says as he draws his Sigma 77. Looking around at the open terrain they're in, he says "Doesn't look like running is an option. Let's get behind one of these hills at least."

OOC:

Colin will try to lay on the top of a hill, putting the slope between himself and the oncoming vehicle for cover. He'll have his laser pistol drawn and ready to fire at the first sign of aggression.

Mar 15, 2022 9:46 pm

"Crap. We're totally sitting ducks out here and I'm not in any condition for a real fight." Killdare drops to the ground next to Colin and tries to stifle a cough.
"On the bright side.." Killdare says to Colin in a quiet voice. "..if we commandeer their vehicle, we won't have to walk."

Mar 16, 2022 11:06 am

Alex also gets behind the same hill as Colin. He uses his binoculars again to get a more clear visual of the hovercraft trying to figure out what sort of vehicle it is, whether it's agricultural or military. "You know John, I didn't think we were going to commit grand theft auto when we came to Aphrodite Prime. I was planning on visiting some museums. Anyway, I'm checking to see if it's something we can snatch for ourselves."

Mar 16, 2022 1:43 pm

Topher gets into cover with the rest. He has his shotgun raised in case he has to use it. "What are the chances they just came to say sorry for the confusion?" he asks with a heavy sigh.

Mar 16, 2022 2:01 pm

Well, crap. Dan'lo thinks as he follows the others. There's little chance they weren't seen. But some cover...

Mar 21, 2022 2:15 pm

Ben clusters with the rest of them. This is not his area and he follows his comrades lead.

Mar 21, 2022 7:47 pm

The group along with Captain Santoro hunker down behind a hill, Alex scanning the distance through his binoculars. Through them, he sees a single vehicle, shaped like an elongated spear tip close in. Most of its upper part is covered by some glossy black material and it appears to carry a pair of light lasers on the sides. Judging by the course it follows, it seems to be headed towards the Aurora and will be passing by soon.

OOC:

Do you attack the vehicle or otherwise interact with it or let it pass?

Mar 23, 2022 5:51 am

Alex relays the relevant information to the rest of the team.

"I wonder what they're going to do with our ship when they find that it's been abandoned. If they decide to tow it, we might just be able to get it back later."

Mar 23, 2022 8:20 am

"Interesting idea, Alex."

"Since I am no longer pledged to protect the ship or its cargo, I am in favour of letting the vehicle pass. This is a bad place, wide open as it is, to pick a fight."

"Hopefully they will be satisfied with taking the ship as their prize; however, we should expect them to come after us. The law enforcement of this planet may be alerted once they find no crew, for example.

Mar 23, 2022 9:16 am

"I agree. Don't like the look of those lasers. The cost to overtake them could be costly," Topher replies. He still has his shotgun at the ready in case they notice his presence. "Though once we reach civilization, I'm afraid we'll stick out as sore thumb. Should find some way to blend in."

Mar 23, 2022 11:21 am

"We should move then, we need to get as much distance as we can."

Once the vehicle passes, Dan'lo eases up and is ready to move with the group.

Mar 23, 2022 5:07 pm

"Roger that." Killdare says in response to Dan'lo. "Let's get outta here."

Mar 23, 2022 9:01 pm

Colin brushes himself off as he rises and carefully returns his Sigmar 77 to its holster, signalling his readiness to move out.

Mar 29, 2022 6:47 am

The group resumes its travel, cautious of its rear as indeed a while later, the vehicle appears to follow the opposite direction. After once again hiding out of its field of vision, it passes through. Other than that, the rest of the trek is uneventful, except maybe for the mounting stress of your suits running out of air. Judging from their indications, it's been two or three hours you've been on the move already, with some leeway for whatever air you used up around the Aurora's crash site and while hiding.

The settlement itself is, as Alex picked up from a distance, built in extremely symmetrical fashion, with architecture that seemlessly escalates the skyline towards the city's center, where it is clear to see your destination lies: a starport, built atop two towers shaped like arms with the palms joining at the wrists as they hold up the ship-laden surface. Oddly enough, there's no outlying buildings past the city's limits as you would organically expect them to at some point have popped up, everything seems to begin at a very specific point. Fortunately, there seems to be no wall, gate or checkpoint around as you enter, not even a camera or scanner drone. The outlandish harmony of this place apparently comes with an eerie quiet.

Then you hear the blast.

It's a muffled sound at first, drowned out by your suits to the point where it is a bit reminiscent of those EMP warheads, but the shockwave is unmistakable. Seconds later, a score of half a dozen people in what appears to be stained togas and respirator masks run past in the distance, soon followed by three armed men in full combat suits chasing them.

"Pssst! Over here!" a voice shakes you out this. In a nearby alley, you see a girl in her early teens, waving you to come closer. She too has some sort of respirator device over her mouth and nose, but is otherwise dressed in some sort of military uniform not unlike Kildare's, though it's been treated so that the camouflage is suited to the colours of this urban environment.

"Over here, or they'll gun you down where you stand!"

Mar 29, 2022 11:13 am

Never one to be 'gunned down', Dan'lo moves quickly into the alley.

Mar 29, 2022 12:15 pm

Topher urges his companions to rush to the alley, making sure to be the last one through. His front facing the street.

Mar 29, 2022 5:22 pm

"Any port in a storm." Ben murmurs and rushes towards the alley.

Mar 29, 2022 10:34 pm

At the moment of the blast, Colin draws his weapon and takes up a defensive position behind a stack of cargo crates to cover their withdrawal. He sees the men in combat suits and formulates how he might deal with them if they came for the crew. To defeat them and take their gear would be advantageous, but the risk was too high.

When the mysterious voice in the uniform beckons them into the alley, he covers everyone's retreat into the alley before following himself.

"May The Prophets protect us," he mutters under his breath.

Last edited March 30, 2022 5:05 pm

Mar 30, 2022 12:14 pm

As soon as he gets safely to the alley, Alex says to the young girl; "Hey, thanks for the heads up. What in this world is going on?"

Mar 30, 2022 4:42 pm

More as a sub-conscious reaction than anything else, Killdare creates an invisible force-field surrounding himself when the explosion goes off, and then creates a replica of a Laser Rifle as he darts into the alley with the others.
"I guess we stepped right in it."

OOC:

Commiting 1 Effort to use Telekinetic Armor as an On Turn action. If I think there is too much smoke and ash to use a laser rifle effectively I'll create a Mag Rifle instead.

[ +- ] Telekinetic Armory - Level 1

Apr 1, 2022 9:01 am

Captain Santoro and the crew of the Aurora head into the alley, where the girl peeks around the corner to the main street before turning her attention back towards them. "Grandmaster Shen II's propaganda is crashing down on him at last, it seems. See, he rose to power telling people we should isolate ourselves into this utopia of Art. That offworlders only bring pain, war, destruction and savagery. But he still needed some sort of police or defence force, right? So at first, it was a bottom-tier job for people who had zero artistic inclination to do anything else. Which worked out at first, but there still weren't enough people to fill in the ranks, so he started recruiting mercenaries from other systems. Rubbed some of us the wrong way, but by that point, you just couldn't go out and call him a hypocrite. His people made sure such voices were... "silenced". Their property got confiscated, then slowly this became his punishment of choice. Then starport traffic began to pick up and it's easy to see it's not just mercs they're bringing in, the numbers just don't add up. Word is he's selling our art for personal gain. We're putting in all the work, he takes it without compensation or even credit, then because he's basically set up a monopoly, probably sells it to offworlders for ridiculous profits. Which leads us to the riots of these last few days." She pauses for a moment as you take in the information, realizing she's been running her mouth for quite a bit. "I'm sorry for my blabbering, I've been dying to get this off my chest and it's not like I had anyone to discuss it with all this time. You don't seem local and you don't look like Shen's people, how'd you end up on Aphrodite Prime?"

Apr 1, 2022 11:00 am

"By way of an explosive greeting," Topher sighs, trying to keep up with the girl. "We're just trying to get back off the planet."

Apr 1, 2022 12:19 pm

Dan'lo smiles at the girl's question,"Well, our story picks up somewhere in your story. We were sent here with a ship full of trade goods to buy ridiculously expensive art to sell elsewhere. Then some automated defenses shot down our ship. I guess we're a day late to peaceful trading."

Apr 1, 2022 2:35 pm

Killdare begins hoofing it with the others, his previous military training kicking in as he stays close to the walls, and darts across the openings, using cover whenever he can. "Yup. our timing looks to be about as good as ever. Just another S.N.A.F.U. Situation Normal. All Fu.." his words are cut short by another explosion and he ducks reflexively. "We need to get to that Starport ASAP and get off this rock. It's a lot to ask, but you think you could get us there? Or at least help us to find a way where we won't get our heads shot off in the process?"

Apr 2, 2022 5:51 am

Colin will keep a discrete eye out for danger at the entrance of the alley.

Apr 2, 2022 6:05 am

Alex pipes in; "It's strange that the uh. . . Shen-sters. . . would try to shoot us down when we're literally off-worlders here to trade with them, something really dumb is afoot." Alex sighs.

He looks at the young girl and says "I'm Alex by the way. Are those three soldiers we saw there the only ones in the area? Or are there a lot more coming this way?"

Apr 4, 2022 7:35 am

"I'm Trinia" the girl answers Alex. "My guess is you were shot down because the people have been made aware and there's riots going on, so your transaction couldn't take place in secrecy. There's a lot more troops than the three you saw, but you might be lucky in that. If you're headed for the starport, perhaps security has been loosened to allow for more troops to hit the street and control the crowds."

Apr 4, 2022 8:00 am

"Can't see we have any other option than hope," Topher says with a sigh. "Thanks for warning us Trinia. Do you have some place to lay low and safe?"

Apr 7, 2022 12:19 pm

"I have my studio, but it's kinda small" she smiles. "Gonna be a bit crammed if you all pour in, but you're welcome. Heads up though, I can't put you up for the night if that's what you mean. Might not have to though, making a break for it soon during all the chaos might be your best shot."

Apr 7, 2022 12:32 pm

"I would tend to agree with the lady, less time on planet is better and once the chaos subsides, anything we do will draw attention. "

Dan'lo scans the alley way as they move along, pausing for a second to check the gauges on his suit. Well, it's not critical at the moment, but it's not improving.

Apr 7, 2022 6:33 pm

"I was thinking maybe some sort of distraction might help pull troops away from the starport. Maybe an explosion. We could set something up, or maybe this resistance has something going on we could coordinate with."

Apr 8, 2022 6:56 am

Dan'lo finds his suit still intact and good to go for another four hours or so. This also makes him realize that unless provided with a new suit or some kind of respirator, spending the night on Aphrodite Prime is most likely out of the question.

The girl looks at Killdare, her shoulders slumped in disappointment. "I'm afraid that unless you brought something like that with you, it won't be readily available. We are a culture of artists, it's not like guns and explosives could be easily found in the first place, plus Shen most likely has all that rounded up for his troops. This resistance... look, it's more of a fightback against his propaganda, calling him out on his hypocricy. To be honest, I'm kind of surprised it even got people out on the street. They have nothing but their voices, maybe sticks and stones at best."

Apr 8, 2022 8:54 am

"Some paint is flammable," Topher muses. "And there's tech here. Shouldn't be the biggest problem to turn one of the machines here to a makeshift incindary device."

He pauses before feigning innocence "Or so I've heard. Allegedly."

Apr 8, 2022 5:00 pm

Colin agrees with Topher. "And the plowshares shall turn into swords.." he quotes from the scriptures. "The Prophets never fail to provide the tools of justice to worthy hands. But, we must be clever enough to see their gifts."

Colin turns to the girl.

"Your bravery is admirable. How may we address you? It might be best not to share our real names, so feel free to use an alias. You can call me... Shepherd."

After introductions are exchanged he will ask "Do you know how to get in touch with the leaders of your resistance movement? Perhaps we can provide a distraction that aligns with their goals. An explosion that takes out a prison security fence, for example."

Last edited April 8, 2022 5:00 pm

Apr 9, 2022 5:13 am

"Two birds. One stone." Killdare chimes in.

Last edited April 9, 2022 5:22 am

Apr 18, 2022 8:04 pm

"You lot are resourceful. Maybe a bit too resourceful... I hate to agree with Shen's propaganda but I doubt anyone here would have ever throught of those items as anything else but art supplies" Trinia responds. "I don't know about leaders and resistance, but there's a friend or two I dared discuss about the risk of artistic stagnation that might come from prolonged isolation. Maybe they can point you towards the right direction?"

Apr 18, 2022 9:43 pm

"By all means, we need some good directions and I'd rather talk than be shot at... Also, our air is getting low, we're going to need a fresh supply before talking becomes difficult."

Apr 18, 2022 9:47 pm

Colin will concur with Dan'lo and while waiting for further instructions he will keep an eye on the exits.

Apr 19, 2022 2:54 am

"Shit. In all the excitement, I forgot to check my cylinder. Dan'lo is right. We need some real air. And soon."

Apr 19, 2022 10:47 am

"Would be fitting, choking to death after surviving a spaceship crash," Topher sighs. "Wouldn't want to turn art into terror. But I've been taught to use the tools at hand."

Apr 24, 2022 1:42 pm

Ben nods his agreement with seeing the artist's rebel-ish friends.

May 2, 2022 4:31 pm

"What you people need are air condensers" she says with a nod, pointing at the respiratory device over her mouth and nose. "Right now you stand out as foreigners in these suits. Follow me!"

Trinia takes the lead and guides your group through alleys and less crowded pathways, avoiding open space as much as she can. You can't help but notice that the symmetrical way in which the city has been built provides precious few of those and were it not for a full-on riot drawing the attention away from you, navigating this place undetected would have been much harder. Eventually, she gets to a wall decorated with a beautiful tiled mural and presses some sort of hidden switch that opens up a trapdoor on the ground, inviting you in with her. It's an uncomfortable crawl for a few moments, especially doing it in the hazmat suits, but once on the other side, you find yourselves in some sort of storeroom with all kinds of supplies randomly thrown about, the mess a stark contrast to the strict symmetry you've been witnessing all this time. Trinia digs through the heaps of items and pulls out a few respiration devices like the one she has on and passes them to you, when another person joins you through some kind of different hidden entrance on the wall to your right. A man in, you presume, his mid 30s, dressed in practical clothing that's still kept in great condition, complete with his own respiration device.

"Who are you... aw, damn it, Trinia, what have you gotten yourself into this time?"

May 3, 2022 11:30 am

"Hello sir, sorry to bother, hopefully Trina hasn't gotten into anything serious. We're just wandering Traders that the government took to shooting at as soon as we made orbit. Trinia here is just pointing us to the spaceport so we can secure passage back home."

OOC:

Talk = 7

Last edited May 3, 2022 11:30 am

Rolls

Talk - (3d6+1)

(224) + 1 = 9

May 3, 2022 4:34 pm

Killdare sheds his hazmat suit and repositions his gear on his belt, checking to make sure nothing is damaged. He dons the respirator and checks the seals twice. He doesn't like this little bunker. Only one way in and one way out. Nowhere to go if something bad happens, and something bad always happens. He continues to maintain focus on his Telekinetic Armor and Weapon, in case the aforementioned bad thing does happen. He glances around the storeroom, looking for anything that could come in useful. Perhaps something in here could be used to make a bomb, although he is no expert in explosives.

May 4, 2022 12:59 am

Colin clasps the respirator with both hands and dons it quietly, speaking only a short but earnest oath to repay this debt.

May 4, 2022 9:57 am

Topher introduces himself to the strange man. "Sorry for the inconvience, we're short a spaceship so needed to improvise."

May 4, 2022 2:44 pm

Ben gives the air condenser a quick once over to make sure it is fully functional before activating it and removing his suit.

May 4, 2022 8:39 pm

"Yah. We need to get off this rock. And it looks like the sooner, the better."

Last edited May 4, 2022 8:39 pm

May 5, 2022 7:00 am

Trinia takes a moment to explain the situation to the man while everyone gets out of their hazmat suits and pops on the respirators. There's a satisfying hiss of oxygen as the devices activate and losing the suits for a small device over your mouth and nose allows for a lot more maneuverability on top of not standing out from a crowd.

"Seems like you committed the sin of coming here to trade without making secret arrangements with Grandmaster Shen III first" the man remarks with an ironic smirk, which in turn causes Captain Santoro to snap his fingers and curse under his breath. Those of you nearest to him can hear "knew the bastard was holding a part back" or something like that, you assume. "But you are lucky in your bad luck" the man continues. "There is indeed a starport around and given what you certainly saw is going on out there, you might have a chance to make a run for it. Of course, Shen's men aren't just going to let you have one of the ships. I trust you to sneak around or shoot your way through that obstacle. Once you're onboard, you'll need the hatch opened. I know someone who's been dabbling in mechanized robotic sculptures, that'll be our part of the improvization. Assuming one of you can pilot a ship, all you gotta do then is make a break for it before they can shoot you down again."

May 5, 2022 11:50 am

Dan'lo fits the respirator to his face, feeling it's snug fit he's glad he shaved before this trip. "Oh, don't worry about the flying, sneaking or shooting, I think we have this covered. We just need you to do the pointing." Looking around the room at his crewmates, Dan'lo is fairly confident we can do this.

May 5, 2022 12:53 pm

"Would feel better if we had time to do proper recon," Topher adds. "But I say the sooner the better. They'll realize we're not at the downed ship and it won't take a genius to realize we want to get a new ship."

May 7, 2022 12:38 am

The prophets will guide us, Colin says internally

"We will improvise," he says outwardly.

He supposed the two sentences meant the same thing.

May 11, 2022 8:18 am

Trinia seems to hesitate for a moment, but then finally speaks up. "Uhm... I know this is gonna sound strange but... can I come with you guys?"

The -still unintroduced- man looks at her with with a condescending though not demeaning expression, halfway between a teacher hearing a student ask a silly question and a father hearing his somewhat spoiled daughter make a plea for something. "Now now, there's no reason to make it any harder for these people" he begins to say, before Trinia cuts him off with a decisive wave of her hand.

"I've made up my mind. It's not up for debate" she retorts, before turning to you all. "Please? This place is stifeling!"

May 11, 2022 11:20 am

Dan'lo's smile is partially hidden under the new respirator. He glances around the room noting the odd collection of people making up the current 'crew'.

"As far as my vote counts, your welcome to come. Without your help we might still be up in the streets running out of air. Just remember, the only thing nice about space is the view, life up there can be hard, cold and often shorter than you expect."

May 11, 2022 12:22 pm

"We need you to follow orders," Topher says, as if it is already decided. "If we tell you to run, you run. Won't see you dying on our behalf."

He takes out his sidearm, an old revolver. "Can you use one of these?"

May 11, 2022 11:52 pm

"Fine by me. If like he says, you can follow orders. Ships are just like the military, there's a chain of command and it has to be followed, or people end up dying. You got any special skills?"

May 12, 2022 12:50 am

OOC:

How old is the girl?

"You don't have any family to notify, Trinia?"

May 15, 2022 8:54 am

"Unless you're talking about artist skills, I don't have much to offer to a spaceship crew I'm afraid. Gunplay included. But I'm willing to learn. And I don't have to stick around either, you can drop me at your next station as long as I get out of Aphrodite Prime." Trinia cautiously offers the revolver back to Topher, as she turns to face Colin. "I never got to know my parents. My grandma raised me as best as she could, before Shen's men took her away. She passed while in custody. Make of that what you will"

OOC:

Physically, she looks to be in her early teens, maybe 13 or 14. Her behaviour doesn't come across as matching such a young age though.

May 15, 2022 3:09 pm

"Very well. I owe you a debt after all, it would be dishonorable to refuse your request. But make sure you heed their advice, you hear?"

May 17, 2022 4:41 am

"It's not so important that you have any shipboard skills, but it's always good to know what you do and don't know. The biggest thing. Stay out of the way of people that do know and obey the Captain's orders as if you life depended on it. Because it often does. Besides that. I'd take that weapon. You are going to want to know how to use one sooner or later. Might as well be sooner."

May 24, 2022 7:43 am

"Yes, that may be for the best" the girl says sheepishly, as she returns the pistol to Killdare. "Thank you. Thank you all. I'll keep my head down and do as you say."

The man, now leaning against the wall with his hands crossed over his chest, nods. "Well, now that that's been sorted out, I'll give you lot some time to get to know each other better. Trinia, lead these people to the Waxworks, I'll meet you on the back of the building in one hour."

OOC:

Up to you if you want to ask him anything before he leaves, if you want to say anything to Trinia or among yourselves as you wait otherwise we can skip forward to the meet-up.

May 24, 2022 11:06 am

OOC:

I'm good to get moving.

May 24, 2022 1:59 pm

OOC:

Agreed. On to the Waxworks.