TSO 3: Recovery from the Wreckage

Aug 9, 2024 7:39 pm
[ +- ] Days of repair
OOC:
Story continued from HERE
Chronometer(Odyssey): 12:00 @ 2236-10-12

Stinger calls for a short meeting at the bridge, whenever is a good time for all...

Hello all, great job with the reparations!
Sam, if you further aide, please do let us know. The hyperdrive is the priority now.

Alandra, I went through the records about the Artifact and they mention that it seems to be a 'crystalline entity with psionic capabilities'. Which matches what the captain told us and complements that he mentioned that he was becoming some kind of medium for communication with us. Now, I'm worried that we don't yet know the intention of this entity, nor it's name or origin. And we also don't know if all the psychic mess it created when found could happen again, and I really don't want to risk it again. You have been working on the captain and the captain's pod most. Do you have an opinion on these topics? Is it safe to speak with the captain to ask for more details on them?


Krom, you are the weapon's expert. Have you being able to assess the fighting capabilities of those pirates? I mean, since we will eventually need to come out of hiding, I think it would be great if we had a proper comparison between their forces and ours. If we eventually want to examine the planets of this system, we will need time and calm to do that. And that means not staying hidden. Right?
Aug 10, 2024 1:12 pm
Alandra folds her arms and leans up against a ships console. She purses her lips and says, "I agree with those worries. At this moment, it's hard to tell the intent of the entity. I believe it's sentient. Captain said that he would act as a scrubber for the spores, and that seems to be true, but the crystalline structures are still growing and trying to reintergrate themselves with the ship. So far they haven't gone past the Captain's quarters. I suggest we take everything the Captain says with a grain of salt. Cap, seems to be of the Cap everyday, but we can't rule out that it is the entity that is driving their motivations. Why would the entity be trying to entwine itself back into the ship systems?

Was there security footage buried deep within in the security systems that you or anyone else found, maybe in a subsystem or in fragmented memory? It would be helpful to actually see what happened in the Captain's quarters. I know the mutineers where very thorough. I was hoping maybe they missed something.

Avro, hopefully now that are memories are coming back you could remember something?"
Aug 13, 2024 11:56 am
By this time you have used a portable device to take the updated EW/AV profiles created by Sam and cleaned the captain's quarters' systems. Taking what records you could gain access to back you dumped them in the rec center database, which is now acting more like a data center or battle room, to get it all sorted and build a better picture if possible. From what you found the isolation saved much of his system as though it did have an older version of the software virus, likely planted by first officer Elara Vraspe, it had not been activated so most of his data store was still intact.
A quick review shows that up till the mutiny the crystal was not any more apparent on the Captain or his quarters. However once he activated the life support of his emergency pod it quickly began to visibly affect him and integrate with the pod.
OOC:
I will get you an updated timeline with added details in a bit. Let me know any details you want and I will add this as appropriate
Aug 14, 2024 12:11 pm
I see what you mean Alandra. You are right, we should be extra careful. And we still may get some new information on the artifact. Let's visit the captain this afternoon.

Sam, how the hyperdrive going? Do you need an extra helping hand?

Krom, please, if you could assess our fire capability, and contrast it to the pirate's, it would be very helpful.

Also, from recent discovery we know that the crystals were activated with Jaxon activating his pod, after the mutiny. But it is clear that the artifacts spores were active before the mutiny, and it's psychic effects. Also, we don't know where now how are the mutineers.
.
Last edited August 14, 2024 12:16 pm
Aug 14, 2024 5:37 pm
"That is true, Stinger. We have to assume that the mutineers are infected as well. Prehaps they are also driving, even subconsciously, their behaviors? I'd like to ask the Captain that when we have our visit."
Last edited August 14, 2024 5:38 pm
Aug 14, 2024 9:28 pm
Help will probably make it go a little faster but better to be a bit slow and do it right then rush and have to replace the engines.

If others can get the weapons working would be good but if you need me there I can stop and do that first.
Aug 14, 2024 10:39 pm
Yes Alandra. And if they were affected, then there is a possibility that they could recover and be back on duty. Although I wouldn't want to risk us for just a possibility. Speaking to Jaxon could give us further clues, and... when we are ready... trying to communicate with them from a distance could give us final clues.

Thanks Sam! I see you are doing a great job with the hyperdrive. And I agree it is better to finish that before doing something else.
Last edited August 14, 2024 10:44 pm
Aug 15, 2024 1:25 pm
Ummm... before we talk to the captain, something just popped back up in my memory. I was a stowaway, I was planning on hiding in the recreation facility. The captain caught me and was keeping me as a cabin boy. I figured you should all hear it from me, now that I remember. To be clear, I had nothing to do with the sabotage, mutiny or the pirate attack. I'm willing to continue helping us get out of this mess but I really don't want to be the captains captive again. Pauses for a reaction.

I can get to work on the recreation systems, some of them aren't that much different from my own holo-emitter. Or I can lend a hand to Sam and the hyperdrive.
Last edited August 15, 2024 1:26 pm
Aug 15, 2024 4:05 pm
Alandra looks at the others then back at Avro, "I'd say we can use all the help we can get. I for one think you'd make a fine cadet."
Aug 15, 2024 4:06 pm
"At least that's my opinion on the matter.", she adds looking towards the others to see their reaction.
Aug 15, 2024 6:34 pm
"I'll get right on it!" Krom said to the others, rushing off to assess their weapons and the enemies.

In this time, Krom would have liked to have looked over the weapons of the ship to ensure they are combat ready and to see if he can send out any scans of the pirate ship to assess what they have.

Rolls

Get an overall assessment of our weapons - (2d6)

(64) = 10

Scan enemy ship to see what kind of weaponry they have - (2d6)

(56) = 11

Aug 15, 2024 8:11 pm
Stinger pays special attention to Avro's comments. It must not have been easy to recognise this to everyone, even when Jaxon could have say it afterwards.

Avro, I appreciate you coming forward and sharing this. As acting captain, I'll be happy to assign you a formal position on the ship should you want it. I agree with Alandra that you would be a fine cadet. Until then, you can consider yourself a guest, not a stowaway anymore.

As for immediate tasks, please do help Sam as that is priority. After the hyperdrive is fully functional, we will all appreciate your help on the recreation systems.
Aug 15, 2024 9:30 pm
Avro thanks everyone, and says: I'm off to help Sam then. I then head to engineering.

Hey Sam, I'm here to help. Put me to work...
OOC:
Ensign : Helpful Aide
An Ensign can forgo both their actions to help any other Crew member, granting that individual an additional ship action on their turn.
Aug 17, 2024 2:08 pm
Krom quickly refamiliarizes himself with the ship weapons and verifies their full functionality. The plasma cannons need to be tested when you are sure no one is in line of sight as their flash is easily spotted. The gravity cannons are more subtle but you still only use them when you are sure no one is nearby as gravitic sensor are common and do not require line of sight. Fortunately the gravity canons create only small localized fluctuations so you don't need to worry too much unless another ship is nearby. While you are at it you verify the other associated systems. short range, intra system, scanners are operating fine and the ship has sat, disguised as a small hill by the holographic emitters, while repairs were underway. Force shields also pass all diagnostics and your cloaking should allow you to move about once you set out without drawing too much attention. Unfortunately you also know that salvage and pirate ships often have advanced sensor sweets for tracking ships. If you had not entered the rings of this gas giant it is very likely you would not have stayed hidden for as long as you have.

As for the the salvage ship, you manage to get a couple decent passive scans of it. The ship is larger than yours and falls in the scout class, has some missile pods as well as multiple cannon turrets, heavy armor, and though much larger you know salvage ships tend to not have a full crew to allow additional cargo space. Still you estimate they have a crew of 30-60, depending if they are honest scrappers or more pirate scavenger.
[ +- ] Scout-Class
Aug 17, 2024 2:18 pm
previous says:
Hyperdrives are built in high end facilities and it is usually not recommended to attempt field repairs but at this time you have little choice. Using only the slip drives of the ship would require decades to reach the closest stars and you have no idea what you may find there.
By this point you have repaired the hyperdrive as best you can in the field, though Sam is still running tests on it as any minor flaw could either send to to undesired locations or simply rip you to shreds. With it at least opperable she begins updating its navigation systems based on sensor readings and the star maps you have begun reconstructing. Until you actually go to a jump point though you are not certain which systems are reachable. Most systems are connected to other nearby systems but others are disconnected and some jump point allow travel to much further systems. Obviously since you and the scrappers got here there must be a way back, it's just a matter of finding the way. Avro helps out with updating/recovering the star charts but a full restorations is unlikely until you get to a repair facility.
Aug 17, 2024 2:19 pm
By this time the scapper ship has left the gas giant and though you have caught traced of at least one other ship in system you are not sure where or what it might be.
Aug 17, 2024 2:30 pm
While Sam and Avro are making repairs and Krom is checking on our "friends", Alandra gets it in her head to try and boost the capabilities of the med lab and starts to write an algorithm to do so. If it works in the lab, maybe it will work in the pod, once Stinger is ready to see the captain.
OOC:
I haven't used the Tinkerer ability yet but I feel like this is a good interlude to do so. I imagine Krom hasn't told us about the other ship yet. My goal is to get the medlab to work a little faster while running calculations (advance with in reason any timeline needed to study things with it). Let me know if this is something Alandra can even do or if I need to use tinkerer for other enhancements :)
Last edited August 17, 2024 2:30 pm

Rolls

Tinkerer - speed up the med lab - (3d6)

(262) = 10

Aug 17, 2024 5:23 pm
OOC:
In comparison with the Scout-Class (in terms of Structure/Sensor/Weapon/Defense/Movement/etc) how would our ship be measured?
Aug 17, 2024 5:52 pm
OOC:
see above for scout
See Odyssey sheet
Basically they have more structure and 1 open ability slot vs the Odyssey auto evade
Aug 19, 2024 6:24 pm
OOC:
Ok, I guess more structure means it can take more damage... Without an easy and fast way for reparations, I don't think we should pick up a fight with them now. But we will be as prepared as we can in case they attach us.
Stinger looks for Alandra.
Hi doctor, are we good to visit your patient?
Aug 19, 2024 6:40 pm
Alandra coms back to Stinger, "I'm ready if you're ready. Meet you down there.". She sits back in her chair, cracks her knuckles amd stands.

She picks up her shock staff and med kit then exits the med bay. She hums tunelessly as she walks towards the Captain's Quarters.
Aug 21, 2024 5:24 pm
HAL disconnects itself from the regeneration matrix, content that its system has been properly cleansed of the foreign contaminants that were contributing to glitches in its personality matrix and various systems. For all intents and purposes, it was a new personality in a modified shell with some of the memories of the previous iteration. Or was it iterations. Hard to be certain at this point. That was where the gaps in the reformatted memory chips were located.

It will have to do.

HAL left its quarters and made its way to the bridge, seeking to reconnect with the crew and get a status update on the ship.
Aug 21, 2024 9:28 pm
Stinger was at the bridge, finishing checking the Stealth Systems, when he sees CZ530 enter.
Hi CZ, oh, you seem somehow changed. Are you alright? I was about to visit Dr. Alandra, but I think I can spare a couple of minutes if you need help for a quick diagnostic. If not, you are welcome to come with me to the med bay.
Aug 21, 2024 11:45 pm
"Hello... Stinger. Yes, I have changed. I had to initiate my regeneration matrix to purge foreign contaminants from my systems. The process has altered my appearance and personality. You may call me 'Hal' now.

"I ran a diagnostic before leaving my quarters and all my systems are nominal. While I do not believe that I need another diagnostic, I understand that such a change can be unsettling to organics. If you would like me to submit to a further diagnostic, I shall. Either way, I shall accept your invitation to accompany you to med bay."
OOC:
I tried a different font (start, neuropol) to give Hal's speech a more robotic feel, but with the bold applied, it made the text a little annoying to read, so I went back to default font.
Aug 22, 2024 3:56 am
OOC:
blackops start stalinist
some fonts don't really need bold
Aug 22, 2024 6:02 am
Well then, welcome back Hal. I see what you mean, and I don't think another diagnostic is needed at this time, one should be enough. If you need help in the future, feel somehow different or find memory blanks, let me know.

Now, let's go to see Dr. Alandra.


They walk to the captain's quarters...

Hi doctor, hi Jaxon, how is everything doing?
Aug 22, 2024 4:13 pm
"Hi Stinger, so far so good. Ready to talk to the Captain?", she says as they round the bend.

She looks at CZ530 and smiles, "Love the new look. Feeling alright? My names Alandra. What would you like to be called?", she says and reaches out her hand for a hand shake.
Aug 22, 2024 5:01 pm
Psybermagi says:
OOC:
blackops start stalinist
some fonts don't really need bold
OOC:
True, but wasn't sure that would be a "violation" of GP etiquette.
Aug 22, 2024 5:07 pm
Cathamber says:
Well then, welcome back Hal. I see what you mean, and I don't think another diagnostic is needed at this time, one should be enough. If you need help in the future, feel somehow different or find memory blanks, let me know.
"Thank you."
microtheMacroBear says:
"Love the new look. Feeling alright? My names Alandra. What would you like to be called?", she says and reaches out her hand for a hand shake.
HAL extends his hand and shakes Alandra's hand. "I am well, thank you, Alandra. My name is now HAL. I apologize for any disruption my change has caused."
Aug 23, 2024 3:41 am
This ship is massive, something that was more than capable of decimating their ship. When he read the information it only confirmed what his gut was telling him, he gets on the comms to let the others know.

"Sorry for interrupting anything, but it looks like we got ourselves a Scout class scavenger ship, it has some missile pods as well as multiple cannon turrets, it's heavily armoured, they may have a crew of 30-60, more if they are a pirate ship. Scanners might pick us up if we sit here for too long and I haven't had time to test our own weapons, I suggest we get out of here asap." He says to the group.

"Computer, our hyperdrive is active? Right?"
Aug 23, 2024 4:43 am
Alandra spends some time putting together a specialized system in the med-bay and is pleased with the result the analysis of all data, whether scrambled or not, noticeably accelerates. you will have to tinker with this each time you want to analyze something new but for now it is focused on analyzing the crystal pathogen/life form. She hooks all the monitors surrounding the captains quarters into this specialized processor as well as the few remote sensors she and sam installed to monitor the pod and captain.
OOC:
ForeverDED says:
True, but wasn't sure that would be a "violation" of GP etiquette.
I just ask for bold to more easily separate speech. So if you want to use a inherently bold font go for it.
As You arrive at the room Alandra checks on the sensors and is relieved to see that the crystal has not expanded to the exterior of the captain's quarters at this time. Entering you sweep the air and surfaces before entering once assured that the crystals spores have continued to be removed from the air. Moving into the captains rooms she is slightly surprised to see that the once featureless pod has shifted. From a simple dome like structure of metal you now look at an effigy of the captain made entirely of crystal. Scanning before moving closer it is revealed that the pod has once again grafted itself to the deck, power, and data relays, but seems to have stopped spreading further. From what her scans tell her the crystal has stopped once it reaches several of the quarters control systems and the power supply. Just like sending down roots and branches to soak up nutrient.

Krom checks the ship status to find Sam has managed to get the hyperdrive active but it requires a jump point to work and with the state of the navigations/astrological database the destination is slightly questionable though Sam and Avro are improving the odds daily. Luckily the engines use the slip drive and with your stealth tech you can likely outrun the larger ship. Krom figures in a straight up fight you would likely get crushed but using the stealth and holo systems to surprise the ship you might be able to disable a couple systems before they are able to properly respond.
OOC:
Hyperdrive is only for travel between stars. Thrusters (slip drive) is used in system and allow massive acceleration up to 2.5x speed of light.

Crazy work schedule. Point out anything I missed/forgot and I will try to get another update this weekend.
Aug 23, 2024 6:16 pm
HAL observes the captain's situation and says, "I see that I am not the only one to have gone through a transformation. Are his faculties intact? I would deduce that his mind has been altered, but I have no data to confirm this."

After hearing Krom's announcement, HAL says, "A scavenger ship? They will not give up on us that easily."
Aug 24, 2024 2:27 pm
Alandra looks at the crystalline structure that is the Captain's
new form. The beauty of it both terrifies and awes her though she would never let those emotions show. Still, a hint of wonder enters her voice says, "Yes, the Captain can still speak and..."

Krom comes over the intercom warning about the scavenger ship and she immediately shifts focus. "A Scavenger ship? Do you need us on bridge?"
Aug 24, 2024 8:35 pm
Stinger gets a comm nearby...
"Thanks Krom, it's vital info. We shall stay hidden from their sensors for some time. When we are ready we will plot a course away from their weapon's reach. Feel free to help Sam, monitor that pirate without engaging, or with something else as you seem appropriate."


Then... with Dr. Alandra and HAL, at the captain's quarters.
"HAL, you may have additional input on Jaxon condition, please keep your eyes open for anything out of ordinary that you could tell Dr. Alandra's to add to her diagnostic... Beyond the obvious crystal transformation of course."

Then, once in the captain's quarters...
"Thanks Doctor! Mr. Jaxon, how are you feeling now? Have you felt anything new now that you are back to the ship? Or... do you have any information or request on behalf the artifact that we should know of?"
Aug 27, 2024 2:24 am
Sam heads to the engine room and takes a seat at the console that oversees the functions of the ship. she takes a datajack and plugs into the system. She contacts the bridge, I am set up in engineering to monitor our systems and be able to do any emergency repairs if needed. I am keeping my comms open and will be able to listen in to what is happening on the bridge.

Crystalline Thrace

Psybermagi

Aug 29, 2024 3:17 am
Crystalline Thrace
Much to your surprise the crystalline mask/face opens it's eyes and shifts its gaze to focus on Stinger. As the mouth opens slightly words come out but the lips and jaw do not move.
We am feeling better still adjusting. We understand your hesitancy and caution with believe your time would be better spend tracking the pirates who stole the artifact. The portion that it left on the ship has bonded with Captain Thrace and we can aid you in tracking the artifact. If you allow us we can also aid with other functions on the ship. But we will wait for you to ask before we move beyond our quarters. For now we are focusing on finishing the symbiosis.

Though we have lost the mobility of Captain Thrace we have gained other abilities, and can even share some with you, or teach you to find them within yourselves.
The last part was not spoken but received telepathically in every mind onboard.
Aug 29, 2024 2:38 pm
Stinger was happy to be able to talk to Jaxon, but somehow surprised that he didn't use his mouth. But the telepathic message was completely unexpected, a shock!

Only after the shock has passed, he realised that whomever voice it was referred to the captain as someone else, showing clearly that this crystal being was now in charge, Jaxon is but a subordinated part of this new symbio. And this being has strong telepathic skills, even before finishing the symbiotic process... it's always hard to trust such beings... Sting REALLY hopes it is friendly.

After a moment, he answers... all Comms open for all the ship to hear as he wants a fully transparent conversation.

"I'm glad you are feeling better, and that we can talk. As we begin to know each other, I feel I should introduce myself properly: I'm pilot, and acting captain, Formigum Whiteblade, my colleagues and friends call me Stinger. How shall we call you?"
Stinger will wait for Jaxon's body to answer, then... "From our understanding, the Artifact somehow call us, can you share with us it's reasons and intentions to call us?"... "Also, we respect the symbiosis process you are undertaking. Once it is finished, what is your intention regarding our ship and us crew?"
Aug 29, 2024 5:18 pm
"Fascinating. I am curious to know if the captain agreed to this 'symbiosis'."

To the others in the room, he texts, "Do we know if the crystalline entity is capable of reading thoughts as well as sending them? If so, then we are at its mercy. For if it proves to be hostile, it would surely be one step ahead of us before we could properly mount a defense."
Aug 30, 2024 2:17 am
Alandra sits silently listening to the Captain and Stinger.
"The Artifact and the Captain are now truely one in the same", she thinks and quickly on it's heels thinks, "Letting it have access to the ship is a bad idea, but they're not wrong about the pirates.".

She feels a vibration on her communicator and looks.

She texts back, "Unsure if it can read our thoughts, but it seems very very likely.".

Alandra steels herself. If the Captain can read thoughts, all of hers were on display. She begins to think of a reinforced steel hull and focuses on the image.
OOC:
@Psybermagi, if we are texting back and forth, how do you want us to format it?

Rolls

Created a mental barrier to hide thoughts - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Crystalline Thrace

Psybermagi

Aug 30, 2024 4:53 am
Crystalline Thrace
The symbiote answers both vocaly and telepathically to all onboards the ship We are Thrace. We remember you. Perhaps better than you do yourself.

The artifact was seeking a one like the Captain Thrace who heard its call. It is instinctively seeking to bond with a proper candidate life form. The captain sought it for its psionic potential due to his own limited capabilities and a desire to learn more. The captain had other reasons but they are less of a concern for us at this time. Those of our kind have always been passive for the most part but we are influence by the organics we have bonded with. Thus should another bond with it before we can link with it then it may pose a serious threat to sentient life nearby.

As for out intentions, as we lack mobility we are content to watch and learn. We are pleased to be in a ship with the possibility of travel. We will aid you as we may but at present our capabilities barely cover the span of the ship. From the memories of the captain we know there are other ships in the system. If you do not wish us to remain onboard then we can prevent ourselves from fully integrating into the ship so that if another ship is willing to take us that we might be transferred to another ship in the future.

The captain is well please with this new form he is a part of. Though his mind is still growing accustomed to this state his core awareness and personality are slow to fuse into us we are aware still of him as he is aware of the crystal component. In time we, the gestalt entity, will be both.


Alandra focuses and is actually able to shut out the telepathic 'voice' but still feel a slight pressure. Like still sensing vibrations and faint noise while plugging your ears and humming to yourself.
OOC:
DM says:
You can put the texts inside a quote box, or even spoilers. Just don't put anything you want me to respond to into those comunications.
Aug 30, 2024 8:12 am
Stinger ponders their words, it is true that Jaxon was drawn strongly to the artifact as we read in his journal before the start of their symbiosis... to the point of risking everything to be closer to it. That gives credit to the crystal voice, although a psychiatrist may think otherwise.

"Regarding your psychic powers, you must already be aware that we see uninvited incursions to our thoughts as a breach of privacy, and as such, a kind of violence. We will appreciate if you do not execute further incursions unless of course you are invited by someone. As such, a valid invitation is only to his or her own mind, so it is not valid an invitation into someone else's mind. I am stating this aloud, so that there are no misunderstandings in the future. Do you agree?

Also, as I understand, and please do correct me if I am mistaken, the Artifact is the source of your conscience. It was seeking someone to bond with, it was found by Jaxon Thrace who was willing to bond, and now the process is in progress. Also, for now you are content to watch and learn because you lack space mobility.
But my question has remained unanswered: can you share with us your reasons and intentions to call us? Watch and learn is clearly a stepping stone to your goal, and you have not yet share it with us.
"
Aug 30, 2024 4:15 pm
Krom hears the replies from the crew.

"Activating comms, Sam, an you hear me Sam?" He asked.

"If you can, let me know how the engines are looking, I don't know how long that thing has been sitting here, but it's only a matter of time before that ships scanners pick us up. I am planning on making a jump as soon as I hear the okay from you. Over." He added.

He then waited for Sam's reply and then prepared a course away from the scavenger ship.
OOC:
Would you like me to make a roll to plan out a pathway to jump?
Aug 30, 2024 9:04 pm
Well, this is an unexpected turn of events... Thrace, are you able to assist us without integrating throughout the ship? You understand our hesitation but you likely also understand our need, as we are handful of crew members where were once dozens. I can't speak for everyone but I don't know if I want to be a part of a sentient ship...

Crystalline Thrace

Psybermagi

Aug 30, 2024 10:49 pm
Crystalline Thrace

At present our abilities are those of our crystalline component which must touch thing to affect them and those that the captain already had, though now they are more refined in their execution, and limited to the range of the ship. They then explain their abilities
[ +- ] TELEPATHY
[ +- ] CRYSTALLINE MANIPULATION
Aug 31, 2024 8:29 pm
"Captain, no disrespect, but I'm really uncomfortable with letting you have access with the ship. If it was just up to me, I would say absolutely not. As Stinger says, we don't yet know your motivations. I do understand your desire to reconnect with the artifact, sorry, the rest of your consciousness.", Alandra says taking a step towards the Captain.
OOC:
The Captain's abilities are really cool and if I was playing a different character, I'd say go for it, BUT I don't think Alandra in this situation would be up for it.
Last edited August 31, 2024 8:33 pm

Crystalline Thrace

Psybermagi

Aug 31, 2024 8:49 pm
OOC:
RESITANCE IS FUTILE, WE ARE DARLEK...
Crystalline Thrace

Stinger says:
"Regarding your psychic powers, you must already be aware that we see uninvited incursions to our thoughts as a breach of privacy, and as such, a kind of violence. We will appreciate if you do not execute further incursions unless of course you are invited by someone. As such, a valid invitation is only to his or her own mind, so it is not valid an invitation into someone else's mind. I am stating this aloud, so that there are no misunderstandings in the future. Do you agree?
We have not breached your psychic singularities. We are merely projecting in such a way as to be properly understood. We will respect your desire that we not push deeper into you psychic singularities if this is required to remain amicable and onboard. If you truly do not wish even the most basic of communications as well we can agree but will simply point out that this is a paranoid over reaction.
Alandra says:
Captain, no disrespect, but I'm really uncomfortable with letting you have access with the ship. If it was just up to me, I would say absolutely not. As Stinger says, we don't yet know your motivations. I do understand your desire to reconnect with the artifact, sorry, the rest of your consciousness.
We understand your reluctance and will abide by your decision for now. Hower, we do not wish to be captured or slain by the pirates or others. Should we feel threatened we will act as we deemed most prudent to maintain continued existence and a healthy environment.
Sep 2, 2024 8:07 pm
OOC:
DOCTOR!
"Let's hope it doesn't come to that.", Alandra says and then leans towards Stinger, "Maybe we should check in on that Scrapper situation?"
Sep 3, 2024 12:40 pm
With the ship systems reintegrated Krom can see the engines, as well as all other systems, are ready for power. The scrappers are not currently in direct sensor but from the last time you spotted them it looked like they were heading your way before moving below the horizon of the little one you are still parked on By his estimate, if the scavengers were truly aware of your location and intent on reaching you then they could be to the moon soon, if not already in orbit and staying just out of sight.
Sep 6, 2024 6:26 pm
"Thank you Captian, that has been insightful. I'm going to check on Krom.", Alandra says, nods at the crew and Captain, and then turns to leave.
Sep 6, 2024 9:24 pm
"It would probably be best if I went to the bridge to see what other systems need repairing." With that, HAL excuses himself and heads toward the bridge.
Sep 6, 2024 11:28 pm
You reach the bridge to find Krom hunched over the sensor console growling at it, as if to intimidate the reading into showing him the ship he is certain is hiding there just out of sight. A quick check reveals all systems are operational but all save the holo-emitters and stealth field are currently offline to reduce your energy signature.

Then, as if in answer to the hulkin tactical officers threats, one of the sensors flickers ever so briefly. If He had not raised the sensor sensitivity as high as possible it is doubtful you would even sensed anything. As it is the sensor triggered bring other questions. The anomaly was detected on the moons surface several miles away. The moon is mostly flat with only asteroid impact craters decorating its surface. The ship is parked at the lip of one that is crumbling and using the holographic projectors to conceal the ship as the section of the crato that collapsed. A quick check of the sensor reveals that it detected a minute heat signature and energy fluctuation at the lip of a nearby crater before the source vanished.
Sep 7, 2024 2:32 am
Sam waits in the engineering room just in case things go bad quickly so to make sure the ship has power and working in peak efficiency.
While waiting she opens up another monitor and begins to have the computer start to compile all the data they have received and try to further improve the timeline of when things happen and to try to put together any cause and effect that might be found. she puts it as low priority as not to hamper any critical operations and sets it to pause in case of increased use of other systems that begin to draw more power.
Sep 7, 2024 5:57 pm
Avro continues to assist Sam in Engineering...
Sep 8, 2024 5:23 am
Stinger goes back to the bridge and takes the pilot seat he knows well. After hearing Krom's findings, he opens the Comms:

"Hello everybody, it seems that the pirates are aware of us. Since they have, they may not yet know our exact position, but they seem to be hiding nearby waiting for us to appear in their sensor to launch their attack.
Please everyone in their positions and ready for evasive maneuvers if needed.

The plan is to change our disguise to an asteroid and float away for a few kilometres, then turn on engines to warp out of sight. This may allow us to have some distance before creating enough engine heat for them to detect... but we need to think that they ARE waiting for anomalies, and a sigle astéroïde that just appear may just be considered one. All plan alternatives are welcome now, before we launch."

Then Stinger checks all systems and waits for everyone, including Jaxon, to comment on the plan.
Sep 8, 2024 12:45 pm
"Sounds like a plan to me. I'll be ready with my med kit in case we get into a scrape.", Alandra says patting her med kit and heads to med-bay.
Last edited September 8, 2024 12:45 pm
Sep 8, 2024 9:06 pm
HAL takes his place at his station.
Sep 9, 2024 1:43 pm
Krom, please man the Plasma cannon, Hal please help with the Gravity cannon on damage setting, Avro please man the Lasers. With Sam at engineering, Alandra at med bay, and me checking the cloaking... I do hope we get out of here in one piece. If we are discovered, aim at their weapons. Everyone ready?

Stinger sets a course trying to keep this moon between the pirates and our ship, and readies the change the settings of the cloaking device to take the form of a meteor or big rock (as if fallen from the moon). But do not engage these changes until everyone is ready at their posts.

Only when everyone is ready, he engages the cloaking change and starts the stealth engine at a speed that would mimic a meteor. If discovered, he will go full speed.
Sep 9, 2024 5:30 pm
Avro sprints up to the bridge and mans the lasers near the tactical station. Quickly analyzing the layout of the controls and familiarizing themselves with targeting... calls out: Laser's manned and ready for action Sir.
Sep 9, 2024 5:54 pm
HAL accesses the controls to the gravity cannon and fine tunes the damage setting. "Gravity cannon ready."
Sep 9, 2024 11:00 pm
"Got it Stinger!", Alandra says and checks her med kit.
Last edited September 10, 2024 1:31 am
Sep 10, 2024 1:48 am
As you lift off you engage cloaking As soon as you gain altitude your sensors detect multiple teams crossing the small moon. Though the cloaking field will strongly hide your direct presence secondary effects are often harder so you try to fines the ship systems to minimize your signature to the scanners the teams are obviously employing. The Salvage ship seems to be following the teams on the ground, staying just below the horizon with a relay drone between them and those searching ahead. You will need to get into the jumble of the asteroid to make any inert disguise work but if you disable cloaking and stealth you could instead alter your ships appearance and signature just long enough to confuse the other force.
[ +- ] Stealth Engine ✅
[ +- ] Defense : Cloaking ✅
[ +- ] Holographic Emitters ✅
Tell me which systems you are using and roll accordingly.
Sep 10, 2024 1:00 pm
OOC:
edit: Do we have any kind of explosive onboard?
"So, my plan is as follows:
Cloaking and stealth engine are currently on. That means we are not leaving any detectable exhaust nor can we be detected with light/color bases sensors. That basically renders all visual, infrared (thermal) and ultraviolet sensors almost useless. And we had initial impulse to escape the gravity force of the moon.
They could sense any gravity field effect, but our ship is so small compared to the moon and asteroids around that they would need a huge sensor directed straight to us to have a chance...
We turn off all non vital (and not in use) systems to avoid leaving something to be detected.
Let's NOT start the holographic emitters until we get to the jumble of asteroids, to avoid any suspicious effect while travelling there, once there lets disguise as another asteroid. We get out of the moons gravity field only by the inicial impulse, then we let inertia get us to the asteroid field... to avoid any direction corrections that way seem strange in open space if detected.
Hal, please, can you check the passive sensors for a possible position of the pirate ship, and the amount of ground teams deployed?
Krom, please aim the plasma cannons to their relay drone but don't fire yet, if we detect that they do something strange, like a ground team stopping their movement, then destroy it. That would alert the ship, but also loose their Comms with the teams on ground."
OOC:
We fly on inertia, so the engine is off.
We wait until getting to the asteroid field to start to holographic system... so not on, yet.
We maintain the cloaking active, but without change of setting. Can we use Focus on this roll please?
Last edited September 10, 2024 1:20 pm

Rolls

Maintain cloaking system - (3d6h1)

(536) = 6

Sep 10, 2024 4:21 pm
Alandra powers down the med bay as soon as she hears Stinger's commands. "The medbay is temporarily powered down.", she says over coms.
OOC:
Do I have to roll for that?
Sep 10, 2024 5:14 pm
"Passive sensors deployed." HAL gives the sensors some time to acquire their readings. "I've acquired the location of the pirate ship, but I'm having difficulty locating the ground teams. I shall make some adjustments." HAL adjusts certain parameters to better locate smaller, non-metallic targets. "Yes, that did it. I have located the ground teams."
OOC:
Re-rolling the ground team passive sensor search utilizing the Communications Trait.
Wasn't sure if these were two different actions or had to take place over two rounds. So ignore and/or delay as necessary.
Last edited September 10, 2024 5:23 pm

Rolls

Passive Sensors - Pirate Ship - (2d6)

(55) = 10

Passive Sensors - Ground Team - (2d6)

(24) = 6

Passive Sensors - Ground Team REDO - (2d6)

(51) = 6

Sep 10, 2024 5:31 pm
OOC:
Great rolls Hal!!
I don't think we should roll for a power down, doctor.
"Thanks Hal, with the location of the pirate ship we can avoid being at a straight line from them keeping the moon in betwwen, and thus, their sensors.
Please everybody ready, we are not out of danger yet.
Krom, a question, do we have any kind of explosive onboard? Sam, if we do not have explosives, do you have materials to make a big one with delaying timer for detonation?"
Last edited September 10, 2024 5:47 pm
Sep 11, 2024 6:21 pm
Leveraging Hal's sensor readings, Avro manually starts targeting the lasers on the three furthest ground teams, adjusting for distance, drift and gravitational forces from the moon.

Rolls

Manual targeting (focused but disadvantaged) - (1D6)

(6) = 6

Sep 12, 2024 1:03 am
Krom looked to Stinger and nodded.

"I didn't recall seeing any explosive aboard this ship, nothing weapon related anyway. But, maybe we have some extra fuel cells, launch it into space towards the ship, take a shot at it, see what happens. Nothing guaranteed. I'll head to the guns now, just shout out the target on comms. and give me the order to blast away." He said as he moved to man the Plasma guns.
Sep 13, 2024 5:48 am
"Thanks Krom, I see what you mean... although, their ship is way more powerful than ours so I'm thinking about traps and surprises, not direct confrontation."
Hopefully Sam can figure out a delayed detonator.
Sep 13, 2024 10:46 pm
There are plenty of things that can boom on this ship. Making a jury-rigged bomb that is a bit trickier though.

ok make bomb and either time delay or remote trigger. Probably won't destroy ship but put it out of commission long enough to make a mistake she thinks to herself as she begins to look for the parts she needs.

Rolls

Figuring out what to use to make a bomb - (3d6)

(225) = 9

Sep 14, 2024 5:26 pm
"That's great Sam! This is the plan:
If we get discovered, we leave the bomb midway between them and us to explode it when they get near enough.

But they have not discover us yet! If we get to the asteroid field, we install the bomb in one of the big ones... thus we have a backup plan to divers their attention should the need arise.
What do you think?"
Sep 16, 2024 12:25 pm
OOC:
Communications rerolls do not take another action
The majority of the tech onboard uses energy but yes you can make a decent bomb with some high energy power cells and some form of trigger.
While building a decent missile or even rocket would be tough you can easily make anti-personel bombs or mines. By stacking these you could craft a couple large enough to damage a ship.
As you ease away from the planet you watch as the ground teams converge on your previous resting point. The ship quickly moved onto an intercept course with you initial launch vector but your efforts to minimize the ship signature allow you to drift beyond the small moons gravity and then, after hours of tense waiting, you move to mid range sensors.

You drift along and after ensuring your stealth systems are both functioning well you engage low level thrusters as drifting would require weeks of time to reach even the closest section of the rings. Keeping your power output low you near the rings as you watch the salvage ship scour the area.

Unfortunately HAL reports that the salvage ships increase in activity has drawn the attention of another ship. When the ship first appeared on your sensors it was uncertain where it was hading but during your time drifting it became all to clear it was heading for the moon. You watch as the salvage ship hurriedly deploys several shuttles and others on the surface of the moon move together with them to retrieve all the patrols on the moon. With a blast of maximum thrust the salvage ship dives straight for the gass giant only to be replaced by a larger and deadlier ship that deploys several smaller strike craft.

There is no detailed records of this ship in your database but its energy output matches some recent traces of ships moving in the inner part of the system. Though you are far from the carriers it has launched about a dozen of the striker ships who are moving into a search pattern. By this point you have almost reached the rings and you quietly move into the edges.
One more stealth test with any changes to you plans
Sep 16, 2024 2:41 pm
Alandra returned to the bridge once the med bay shutdown. She sits silently in the corner as the others frantically try to get us out of the situation. If she could help, she would, but the rest of the crew has got this.

As HAL reports about the other ships, tension crawls from her shoulders down her spine. "That's not good.", she thinks.
Sep 16, 2024 7:16 pm
As you watch the salvage ship fly off and the carrier start to sweep the area you figure if you can get out of the proximity of the carrier you will be able to fly under stealth to any point in the system and remain unseen by both ships and their escorts.
Sep 20, 2024 5:51 am
"Seems like the plan works so far, but we are not out of risk yet."
Stinger ponders HAL news... a new bigger pirate scares out the other. But this one doesn't know what they a looking for within the moon, much less may it be aware of it escaping. With all those resources searching the moon from scratch, it will take a while before they extend their search pattern in our area.

"Please HAL, let us know when the search pattern of the strike teams extend to our area."

Being so close to the rings, we maintain the plan.. drifting as much as possible and using very low thrusters only when it is really required. First stop: landing in the back of a medium sized asteroid in the field... the 'back' as in opposite to the pirates and moon.
OOC:
No changes needed to the plan, so no additional roll needed, right?
Sep 20, 2024 3:18 pm
OOC:
sorry for the wording, I meant 1 test and any changes
Minimizing your signature as much as possible you are nearly within the ring when the nearest ship suddenly turns and heads directly for you!

You doubt they have a good reading but something obviously got their attention to get them to change corse. The other two scouts and carrier have not made any moves yet but the fact the closest one has raised shields and is powering weapons as is bears down on you makes it clear that they are preparing for a fight. By your approximation you will be well within the rings asteroid field before the closest scout is within weapons range but if they somehow pierced your cloaking then it may be enough for them to retain target lock. Fortunately even if they call reinforcements you have at least 3 minutes to deal with the closest ship, though evasion or combat, and hide again from the sensors of the other ships.

Rolls

Hide & Seek - (Stealth:3d6, Scan:2d6)

Stealth:3d6 : (555) = 15

Scan:2d6 : (65) = 11

Sep 21, 2024 6:53 pm
"Is one of them following us?", Alandra says as her eyes jump between Stinger and Hal's monitors.
Sep 22, 2024 1:10 pm
We enter the ring of asteroids and position behind one big-enough asteroid (cutting a straight line from that scout ship).

If all goes well, we will try to land on it and leave one of those remote controlled bombs that Sam created, then fly to another asteroid within the ring.

Rolls

Stay under cover - (3d6h1)

(625) = 6

Sep 23, 2024 12:19 pm
You fly deeper into the field before you find a n astroid large enough to land on, place the bomb, and fly off again. Meanwhile the closest scout as begun randomly blasting any large astroids as it begins sweeping the area. Fortunatly thoughj a couple get close none of the sots are a direct hit and you slip deepter into the ring and outside fo the scouts weapons range. Moving deepter you soon reach the midle and pass through the ring. Now clear of the carrier and its scouts you are free to head aywhere and are feeling less comfortable hanging around the gass guant with all the recent activity.
[ +- ] Solar System Details

Rolls

Random Shooting (2 6's to hit) - (3d6, 3d6, 3d6)

3d6 : (242) = 8

3d6 : (316) = 10

3d6 : (416) = 11

Sep 23, 2024 1:19 pm
As the scout began to shoot...
"Sam, please, if one of those blasts are close enough to the bomb, detonate it!
They may think they blasted us, and thus stop looking for us."
OOC:
Spybernagi, did one of those hits was to the asteroid that had our bomb?
Sep 23, 2024 6:48 pm
OOC:
sure, since they were trying to track you
As you slip away you bomb donates with a much larger explosion than a simple asteroid would. The bomb is not quite large enough to replicate a typical ships fuel exploding and the before will be lacking but that will take time for the scout to discover.
Sep 24, 2024 2:49 am
Alandra watches the bomb detonate on the monitors. "Well, hopefully it will keep them occupied. Any idea where we want to go? Sticking around may not be the best option.", she says.
OOC:
I think the Terrestrial looks interesting. What says everyone?
[ +- ] Solar System Details
Sep 24, 2024 8:15 am
OOC:
I agree, the terrestrial is the only one with liquid water and some ice, so temperatures should be ok. And it has several moons is case we want to hide again from those scouts. Everyone else agree?
Last edited September 24, 2024 8:16 am
Sep 24, 2024 12:35 pm
OOC:
yes and no, Terrestrial might be the easiest but it also might be the most obvious destination. Maybe one of the ice planets. I am thinking VI, but only because we could use the debris as part of our disguise and we might get some salvage: fuel, or components. Or the wreckage might be that of the rest of the crew when they abandoned ship. But I'll defer to the majority if we decide on the Terrestrial.
Last edited September 24, 2024 12:37 pm
Sep 24, 2024 4:16 pm
OOC:
I'm with Turanel for similar reasons.
Sep 24, 2024 4:23 pm
OOC:
Now that you mention these Turanel, I changed my mind. I'm in for a recon mission to VI's wreckage.
Sep 25, 2024 1:44 am
OOC:
Sounds good to me. Let's go!
Sep 25, 2024 3:55 am
Having discussed your options previously you do a quick chat over the coms and Stinger sets course for the 6th planet and you soon leave the carrier behind. As you move away you pick up another ship leaving the area of the gas giant, the scavenger ship. You track it heading towards the 5th planet that is out of phase with the 6th so your paths diverge. The carrier appears to be mining the gas giants rings, likely for ice and easily accessible mineral deposits.

After a almost an hour, as you kept you slip drive at only 0.75c to minimize any possible sensor readings of your passage, you arrive at the ice planet. You scan the surface of the planet curious about the faint traces you picked up earlier.
[ +- ] Planet VI: Ice Planet
This cold, distant planet is a frozen wasteland, with massive glaciers and ice storms that last for years. However, what makes it notable is the wreckage of an ancient spaceship found in a remote location. The wreckage is massive, partially buried in ice, and shows signs of extreme damage, possibly from a catastrophic event. The curious thing is that the ships impact on the planet drove it entirely through the ice so that the front section of it is below the ice entirely and is in fact dug into the planets rocky interior. The sensors show the rock beneath the ship to have numerous caverns.

The light gravity but cold and violently stormy conditions would make any trip to the regions closer to the equator very dangerous. Fortunately the ship is near one of the poles of the planet where the weather is much calmer. With the thin atmosphere your ship should have no trouble landing but you will need to keep the shields up to ensure the ships sensors and engines are not impacted by the ice and dust thrown by the high winds.
Sep 25, 2024 6:05 am
Through the Comms...
"This is Stinger speaking, we are very close to our destination. Please let's meet at the bridges to discuss our landing."

Once everyone arrives "Please Hal, gives us a detailed reading of it's atmosphere, is it breathable? Do need extra weight on the suits to compensate for lighter gravity? And options of good landing spots. I'd prefer not taking unnecessary risks. So, we may need a scouting plan once we get there, what do you think we may find?"
Sep 25, 2024 12:40 pm
Due to the extreem cold and composition of the planets atmosphere you will definitely need to stay in your suits. Krom's suit, due to being caombat hardened, will be best able to function there long term but as long as you are not in a strong storm the others will suffice. The low gravity will make moving a bit dificult but you are all at least familiar with low and 0 G enviroments. There are some weights that can be addd to the suit boots, belts, and harnesses to make movmnents easier but these are not nessisary as long as you move carefully.

Roll a test for scanning the landing sight and let me know where you want to land and any thing specific you check for.
Sep 25, 2024 3:06 pm
If we can tuck our ship into the crashed ship that will help disguise us. Scanning now...

Rolls

scanning for safe landing zone - (2d6)

(56) = 11

Sep 25, 2024 4:57 pm
Avro drinking that though the ship is larger than the Odyssey it has no bays large enough to hold you ship. In addition the damage it sustained that either caused or resulted from the crash landing make any auto to land on it unadvisable. However, due to the angle it tests at there is a section under the ships engines where you can land with a bit of luck and skill.

if you want to land at that site I need at least a navigation and sensor test

There are other nearby places where the ice is thin and you can land with a high chance of a safe touchdown not to far from the wreck.
Sep 25, 2024 5:24 pm
OOC:
In my mind, I had a super star destroyer class size ship, 1/2 impaling the planet and another 1/2 scattered over 100's of meters.
Scans are coming back, the crashed ship isn't as big as I thought. There are a couple of spots within a few hundred yards or the crash site that would be safe to land at. We can also try to tuck the Odyssey under the shipwreck engines but that would be a really tricky bit of flying. Sending three landing zone alternate coordinates to the pilots station.
Last edited September 25, 2024 5:25 pm
Sep 25, 2024 8:43 pm
The ship looks to be a cruiser class ship. It does have a couple small hangers that would have houses small shuttles but the ship design was obviously never intended for deployment in atmosphere or to support other structures, especially while in gravity.
[ +- ] Chassis List
Sep 25, 2024 11:26 pm
"Good job Avro! This is great intel. I agree, landing under it would hide us good.
Please run additional sensors checking for that site and also checking for any lifeforms... I wouldn't want to land and then be attacked by survivors or native animals."


Stinger also plot possible courses in the nav simulation, to land under the ship, since he would not try it for real if the SIM shows it to be too dangerous.

Rolls

Platting courses in nav simulation - (3d6h1)

(354) = 5

Sep 26, 2024 12:03 pm
The ship 360 meters long and hevily damaged. From your sensor reading you determin that the shadow of the engine section that raises up out of the ice about 40 of that is large enough to allow your ship. While this would partially conceal your ship it can be excavateda with a bit of laser fire or yor can simpimply use the holographic systems to conceal the ret of thei ship.
One more test at least. Weapons to use lasers to carve out a bigger hidding hole. scanners to find th best angle of aproatch.
Sep 27, 2024 10:07 am
"Hal, Avro, please try the scanners first. If you can't find a suitable angle of approach, Krom still may try some fire later. But sensors do not show activity on pirate's scans, so I'd rather try them first.

Alandra, Sam, what do you think we could salvage from this wrekage?"
Last edited September 27, 2024 10:08 am
Sep 27, 2024 6:15 pm
"Any medical supplies would be good. It's a big ship, hopefully they have better equipment. Maybe a stronger scanner so we can keep a bteer track on our visitor. Also food. We could use a change of diet.", Alandra says as they fly over the massive ship.

She contemplates the enormity of the doomed vessel. "What do you think happened to them?"
Sep 28, 2024 5:48 pm
"Scanning now." After a minute, HAL says, "Getting some interference. Adjusting."
OOC:
HAL's Communications Trait allows for a re-roll on one failed Sensors check/round.
"Unfortunately, I am unable to find a suitable angle of approach. Perhaps, Avro will be more successful."
Last edited September 28, 2024 5:53 pm

Rolls

HAL3000: Test DC: 5 - Basic - (2d6)

(32) = 5

Sensor check REDO - (2d6)

(44) = 8

Sep 29, 2024 4:52 pm
OOC:
Allowing focus out of combat is standard for me on any activity you have the time and put effort into so that combines with Stinger is good enough
You map out a spot under the tail of the wreck and pull the ship in to land so that you are almost entirely in its shadow. The ice below creaks and shifts under the weight of the Odyssey but using the gravity cannons on low you are able to compress the ice beneath you before you settle so that by time the landing gear is in place you have a stable landing. Engaging the holographic emitters you conceal the ship and take stock before proceeding.

The ship definitely suffered damage before the crash but it looks like some systems are still active on at lease emergency power. It has long since been invaded by the cold and ice of the planet though the gaping wounds in its hull but scans reveal that some rooms may still be sealed but you will need to investigate. The biggest win in the presence of a shuttle in one of the ships bays. You are uncertain of its condition but even is Sam needs to put in some work to get it working it would be worth it as the Odyssey was not built for high pressure and gravity so will be slow and vulnerable if it comes to a fight while within a planet's atmosphere. There are signs that several of the caverns below the ship are not natural but most of the passages are open to the wind and ice and extremely weathered.
Sep 29, 2024 4:52 pm
OOC:
Can Avro use the 'Giving advantage' trait for HAL to roll an additional die on sensors?
Sep 29, 2024 5:00 pm
OOC:
Sure, Avro can just state this after the fact at any time and roll the dice. I will do so now.

Rolls

Ensign : Helpful Aide - (1d6, 1d6)

1d6 : (6) = 6

1d6 : (5) = 5

You do not have permission to post in this thread.