As the group gets ready to depart, a beeping can be heard from the terminal where Regannos sits.  Curious, the Half-Dragon taps it, reading the incoming message.  A snarl forms on his maw as he reads further.  "Well, it appears we will face repercussions after all for that little event down in that temple.  It seems our lawyers and the church of the Reaper's lawyers have come to a conditioned compromise.  One of their priesthood shall be added to our group to ensure we comply with the Imperial Charter."  He spoke, gazing to look at the others in the group.

Vorneyl didn't bother to suppress his groan as he said in a sarcastic tone, "Oh how bloody lovely... nothing like a back seat driving snitch constantly breathing down your neck as he or she looks over your shoulder.  So whose the lucky son-of-a-bitch who gets to play the role of the monkey on our back?

And does this Reaper priest know how to take orders... or duck?  Because I have to warn you Boss, in the middle of a heated fire-fight, with the continued existence of myself or my teammates on the line, I don't have time nor will I make time to listen to some twerp bitching & moaning about this breech of church etiquette or that offense to his or her deity-of-choice.

The last thing we need is an "observer" who thinks he or she has any real "pull".  Also considering the heat from the last job, I hope this pansy priest can hold his or her own in a drag out knock down fire fight... because I, for one, am not "carrying" any "dead weight" around once the gloves come off and the lead starts flying."

Vorneyl raised his hands to forestall complaints as he added in a more resigned tone, "Now don't get me wrong Boss... I realize your lawyers aren't giving you much choice in this matter.  But I felt I owed it to you to share my feelings on this new twisted development.

You say this priest is being forced on us... Ok, nothing we can do about it.  But I hope you're not expecting me to take extra precautions to make sure this ratty snitch doesn't get his head blown off as he's proselytizing."

Vorneyl cast a wary glance over at the Drow paladin as he added in a concerned tone, "So how does this news grab you Vorniir?  You think your Lover inspired faith can deal with a Reaper cleric in our midst?  I sure hope you boys can learn to play nice despite any doctrinal differences."

Though of course if not, I won't object to them taking each other out either.  Guess that's the difference in being on "this" side of the life-death line... once you cross that line and come back a machine, all this divine magic hoopla seems to have much less usefulness to it than it once did as flesh & blood.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:27, Sun 05 June 2011.

Kalic shrugged at Vorneyls attempt to goad him.  "As long as he follows Imperial Law, I shall not act against him.  I have yet to meet him, but perhaps he will be of the more progressive path of the Reaper.  For all we know, he may not be so much a preacher, as perhaps a practitioner."

"Hopefully HE at least will have the professionalism to put his prejudices to the side and work with the rest of the squad." Aria's says, making it crystal clear whose bigotry she WAS concerned with.

Vorneyl allowed himself a bitter chuckle in response to Aria's comment and said with a shrug, "Ha!  Honestly I could care less about this priest's personal prejudices... whether the priest is a he or a she.  I don't really give a damn what this priest's personal views are of us.

What I am worried about is that this priest is going to owe his or her primary allegiance to the Church of the Reaper and NOT to us.  If the priest is a Reaper first & foremost... then that means he or she has no loyalty to Daguam di Thrae vur Xarzith.

It makes me uneasy having someone not pledged to Daguam di Thrae vur Xarzith overseeing our operations... and likely making secret reports back to the Church of the Reaper, who let's face it has an axe to grind with us over that last job involving the White Dragon.

My worry is that this priest is going to be too "professional"... but that it'll be the Church of the Reaper, perhaps allied by the ISPD, who will benefit most and directly from that professionalism."

Vorneyl looked around at his fellow teammates old and new as he asked, "Am I the only one concerned about this question of loyalty regarding this priest?"

And in came the dreaded priest through the main entry way. He was dressed to impress in what seemed to be old age military officer threads and his mask, boots, and gloves had all been shined to a brushed metal finish. The thick magnetic boots squeaked as he walked in, thumbing through a folder. "From the look of it, you knew I was coming." He said with mirth as he looked at the expression of the half dragon. The church indeed works fast! He looked up from the file and his head tilted in some odd way as the smile was not something to be seen past the mask. "I am sorry to place you in this situation. I will do what I am able to in the given situations as they arise."

He offered a respectful bow of the head to the pointy eared Paladin. "Greetings brother." A bow to the lady pilot, and a general greet to the others which he knew little of. "I do hope reputations and chatter will not influence the opportunity for mutual benefit in our venture." He addressed the smooth skin as he removed the mask. His skin had symbols that shown as their natural color, not tattoos. His eyes appeared as black orbs in his skull and his voice fully disguised his age as he was a younger man. Dragons say that "If a mortal should cast magic, the gods would make them born to do it." And this man was death magic on the genetic level. "What can I do yah for?"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:35, Mon 06 June 2011.

Vorneyl hid his disappointment well (sometimes having artificial features had its benefit).  He had hoped to hear the others' responses to his previous query and have a bit of time to dig up information on their "guest" before the priest had arrived but it seemed such was not to be.

In response to the priest's final query, Vorneyl shrugged as he said in a casual tone, "Well I suppose for starters, you might tell us your name and a bit about yourself?

Along with that, you might tell us how it came about that you, specifically, were chosen to join our merry band of mercs.

And speaking of mutual benefit... just how do you, personally, see your role with us now that you're attached to Daguam di Thrae vur Xarzith?  I have to admit it isn't entirely clear to me at the moment just what your purpose is with our team... or for that matter, from whom you'll be taking your orders & instructions.  For instance, are you being formally "seconded" to Daguam di Thrae vur Xarzith and thus will fall under our team's normal chain-of-command... or do you only answer to the Church of the Reaper?

No offense meant or anything... I'm just trying to figure out how you fit into things around here."

Vorneyl nodded his head towards the folder the priest had been thumbing through moments ago as he added, "Looks like you got your briefing on us already, but in case there were gaps in my bio... the name's Vorneyl Kenath."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:17, Tue 07 June 2011.

Jouhan had been silent when the storm about get reaper priest coming along became news. His only concern was that did the priest know the half-orc whom he was figthing with in the ritual chamber or not. He himself concerned with little religious doctrine but wondered is this priest a kamikaze or manipulator, so he reflected upon Vorneyl's worries and was about voice them when priest came in.

Wonderful, no doubt made purpose so we cannot dig any information about the guy nor pre-plan anything.

When Vorneyl introduced himself, Jouhan followed by saying; "Jouhan Calader, melee combat specialist in Daguam di Thrae vur Xarzith."

Kalic's lips twitch as the Reaperite enters the room, his solid blue orbs of eyes glowing.  Shaking his head, he smiles.  "I suppose it is too much to ask of you to consider a different religious path, so other than that, try not to perform evil acts while working with us.  It could be hazardous to your health.  As I am sure your file has read, I am Kalic Vorniir, Paladin of the Lover, and relic hunter.  I am a twin gun specialist."  The drow spoke, resisting the urge to remove the man before them from existence.   Although he could respect many of the Reapers teachings, he could not entirely forget the more evil rites and dogma of the church on the whole.

Saxon gave a nod as he listed to the abundant introductions and questions. "Right. Well, I was not given a name by a parent so I was named Saxon which in my language means war after I was found to have unique talents. I was first of my class at the academy as well attained my holy symbol in short time." He had a serious look as he was not joking, they should be honored with truth. "I was chosen as they expected a rough reception considering current events...." He took a long breath and sighed. "I tend to have a much more liberal view of things as the I had grown up with the teachings of evening glory, the goddess of immortal love. To be honest they expect me to live longer than other more.... ridged researchers."

"As far as a role? I do a great deal of research as well I can tend to both arcane and divine spell casting needs. I tend to summon up many weaker cannon fodder." He bowed his head to the paladin. "No need to worry, I do not make used of any sentient creature. Their deaths are to be honored and respected. The summons are more temporary constructs of will than anything else." He tilted his head side to side as he thought about the next question. "The church may be an authority and whom I answer to in details of undeath, death, burial, and similar situations. But I respect the fact that the church is that, a church and not a military organization. I tend to focus on letting summons do the killing while I can focus on more on my.... utility nature. So I will be happy to honor any orders you give in combat. Otherwise I will work hard not to hinder you or slow you down in any way. A warrior cannot fulfill their work if they have to baby sit a wizard like myself. Simply, I am a monster and I understand my place well in your desired order."

"Your attention to detail is noted in... well great detail, heh."

"Jouhan. Nice to meet you, it was suggested to me provide you the opportunity to practice killing undead. Granted the temporary nature of my constructs."

He bowed fully to the paladin, "I will continue honoring the sentient dead, and I respect your oaths and need to fulfill them. I respect your skill as I do your willingness to work with me, no matter how strained that may be. I will accept any punishment you see fit. But I will not pause if there is a action I can take that will secure the survival of your team." When he raised up he looked the paladin square in the eye, though it was hard to tell considering the coloration of his eyes. "I am sorry for the situation his puts you in."

Oddly enough Vorneyl seemed to relax slightly as he nodded his head and said in a mildly relieved tone, "Well that seems pretty fair enough to me.  You're not trying to sugar coat things and I can appreciate a straight, unvarnished answer even if the pill may be a bitter one to swallow.

Seems like your Church chose wisely when they picked you Saxon.  At least you're honest about what you are and what you can do... whether or not I feel entirely comfortable with the concept, at least I now have an idea of what or rather who I'll be working with.

As for the chain-of-command thing, that's good to know.  We tend to be somewhat loose on that, not really ones for rigid hierarchy... except that Lord Regannos is "The Boss" who has the final say on a job, but he's good about listening to the ideas and opinions of those who work for him."

Vorneyl looked back and forth between Kalic and Saxon.  In truth Vorneyl had thought he was the only one having trouble with the new addition of a Reaper priest but it seemed the drow paladin had some very distinct viewpoints on the matter.

Vorneyl finally added in a serious tone, "Now speaking of "evil acts" and punishment... let's remember that Daguam di Thrae vur Xarzith isn't a religious organization.  To my knowledge the Company doesn't directly support or favor any one Church or Deity over any other.  Also Imperial Law is a bit tricky when it comes to dividing "Good vs. Evil"... and determining what can be done about either and who has the authority to judge & mete out punishment.

So let's none of us be too hasty to either judge or punish until all the facts are in.

I may not necessarily like Saxon's proposed methods... but I'll be damned if I can argue with his stated end result goal of team survival.  If there is "punishment" to be handed out... it should wait until the team is safe and has time to analyze the situation thoroughly, with a close eye on the strictures of Imperial Law.

Or at least that's my take on the matter... maybe the Boss has a different viewpoint?"

With that Vorneyl glanced over at Regannos to see if he was going to voice an opinion.

Regannos contemplated the situation, before reading the file for a moment longer.  "Well, this brings us to the final point of business.  With the new direction of our companies work, I am stepping down as immediate supervisor for this group, though I am still in charge of the mission as a whole.  Vorneyl, since you have prior leadership workings in the Legions, you are now in command of the group.  I am sure that you will do well in this role.

Anyways, I am sure Kalic and Saxon both know Imperial Law, and what punishments are advisable for what acts.  So, do we have any further issues to respond to?"  He asked, looking around the table.

Once again Vorneyl was glad that his artificial features would not register emotion unless he consciously ordered them to... it helped cover up the surprise he felt by this latest announcement.  Bloody Hell!  I'm the new Team Leader!?  Well so much for playing the carefree cavalier... now I have to deal with actual responsibility again!

Vorneyl knew better than to argue with the Boss, once Regannos had made up his mind and made his executive decision, the matter was closed & final.  With a simple nod of his head, Vorneyl said, "Right Boss... I'm the new Tactical C&C for the Team but you still have overall Strategic Oversight."

Well I wonder how that bit of news is going to fly with the boys & girls?

Vorneyl glanced around at the others before he added, "Well I don't know about anyone else, but I don't think I have any further issues to discuss at the moment.  It is probably best not to delay the meeting with the new client, Dr. Renfar Inoma, nor put off the detailed mission briefing.  Speaking of which, I'd like everyone to attend... unless you have some really urgent business that just can't be put off."

Vorneyl looked over at Saxon as he asked, "By the way Saxon, have your files been updated to include the nature of our new assignment for the Imperial Society of Arcane Magic?  If so, what is your take on the job?  Do you have any experience with or knowledge of time-space fluxes or disturbances?"

Aria actually shared few of the Soulmech's concerns. Her while her homeworld exclusively worshipped their ancestor Telamon, it lay solidly inside Osorus space, where worship of the Reaper is more commonplace than in the Qesemet realms. In the domain of the blue Dragons, they were the paladins, cruel but with honor. Dangerous? To be sure, but no more so than the devout of the Judge that turns their ire towards you.

Most importantly, to the mercenary's view, disciplined. Far preferably than the undependable follows of the Destroyer, or the Mother. While the young pilot had no taste for wanton cruelty, she considered both good and evil to be far to mutable concept for her concern. Was she evil when she torpedoed the Lapu cruiser in the Astilid fields, killing all aboard? Or good because they were pirates. Or evil, because the Lapu were a nomadic people, who traveled in huge family ships carrying up to five thousand people, most of whom were non-combatant family members. Or good because they were dropping viral bombs on the Astilid miners... Best left to the philosophers. Aria got a kill score and a bonus, that she understood.

She responded to Saxon's bow with a nod of her head as she stood comfortably at ease with her hands resting behind her back. Aria saw that as sufficient introduction, with no need for any comment from her.

She instead spent her time while the others sparred verbally silently running a series of search programs in her head. "Congratulations," she said, breaking her silence as she came to attention and snapped off a playful, yet sincere, salute. "Sir."

Whatever their disagreements, the young mercenary had fought alongside and respected each of the Daguam di Thrae vur Xarzith veterans. If not she would have taken that pirate contract out in the Monscrome system instead of re-signing with the Saravan aristocorp. The terms were juicy, but pirates were notorously late in payment, and the Altarans were the worst. That job had disaster written all over it.


[Private to GM: Searching for info on Saxon, Kalic Vorniir, and Dr. Inoma.


23:47, Today: Sister Aria rolled 11 using 1d20+7. Gather Info.
23:46, Today: Sister Aria rolled 11 using 1d20+7. Gather Info.
23:47, Today: Sister Aria rolled 24 using 1d20+7. Gather Info Dr. Renfar Inoma.]

Jouhan listened Saxon's introduction. Quietly nodding in approval.

Stepping neither direction, either conciously walking gray path or just being diplomatic I wonder?

Either way Saxon was harder to read and when Vorneyl was assigned as leader he made short salute towards Vorneyl and said; "Congrulations for promotion sir Vorneyl Kenath." Jouhan stood in attention and waited group to proceed to meet the client.
[Private to GM: Hoping earn soon XP to level up as I have not spend any XP for any 'tech' stuff :P.]

The Imperial Society was located not far, at least, by the standards of the flying transportation provided by the sky taxi's.  As you pull up to the Societies main entrance, a young acolyte in purple robes walks forward to meet you.  "Greetings, sirs.  I am Novice Ishim.  How may I help you today?"  The young boy asked, looking to each of you with interest.

[Private to Sister Aria: Dr. Renfar Inoma is a noted physicist and renowned wizard with the Imperial Society for Arcane Magic.  Not much is known about his career, but his papers are always much sought after for their detail and high level of accuracy.

Kalic Vorniir's files are limited, until you go on to the religious sites.  He has been awarded many blessing of no less than four different branches of the church, Including the Judge, Lover, Mother, and the Magus.  Of course it is often noted that it is unusual for a Drow Paladin to be in service, but there is nothing to say to prove otherwise that he is less than he appears.  He is also noted as a religious artifact collector.

Saxon's search is almost non-existent, though there are vague rumors that he is a skilled Necromancer, there is not much more than that.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:09, Thu 16 June 2011.

Vorneyl nodded to the young man and said plainly, "We're from Daguam di Thrae vur Xarzith and we have an appointment with Dr. Renfar Inoma, the Chief Researcher of Quantum Physics and Arcane Dynamics for the ISAM.

Would you please escort us or at least direct us to Dr. Inoma's office?  Thanks."

The young novice nods, turning to wave his hands in the air.  A holographic computer screen comes to life, and with precise movements from the novice, the screen changes to a map of the campus.  A red dot indicates your position, following a red line that twists and turns in right angles which leads to another red dot.  "The holographic projection will follow you and provide you with this map to Dr. Inoma's office.  Is there anything else that I can do that will be of use to you?"  He asks, looking at Saxon as a touch of youthful contempt.

Vorneyl glanced around at the others, choosing to ignore (for now) the contempt displayed towards Saxon, as he said, "Well I can't think of anything at the moment, though it is good of you to offer your assistance so freely.  I assume there are no special rules or passwords or security checks we should be made aware of prior to seeking our Dr. Inoma for our meeting with him?

Does anyone else have anything to ask of this young man?  If not, then we should probably proceed."

Saxon stood infront of the young man and tilted his head very slightly, he had a glare solid as stone and well praticed. His chest rumbled as if he was weighing a number of options and ideas in his head. "Normally I would state the vertue of not all my sect being so sour. But I fear such is wasted. Your youth will not let you judge with experiance." He kept his his hands behind his back. "Your contempt will save you from temptation though. Mind your soul." He had either decided to abide the palidins request to refrain from evil acts, or it was to early in the day for murder. Either way he was ready to move on.

Jouhan remained silent and stoic, wearing his liquidic breastplate armor which reacts to signals from his mind. Hearing Vorneyl's comment he replied; "I have nothing to ask. Let's just proceed."

The young acolyte look from Vorneyl and Saxon, shrugging.  "Nothing like that.  Dr. Inoma left a message that he was expecting...company.  Just follow the map, and you shall arrive."  The young man spoke, moving off to let the others pass.

As you traverse the halls of the building, you notice many students talking with interest.  They look you over briefly, before turning back to their conversations.  "Did you hear?  A new phenomenon has been discovered on the fringe of Imperial space.  Dr. Inoma just released his initial report, I wonder which of his assistants will get to go?  I hope its not as unstable as Krellis..."  They spoke in excited whispers.

As you reach Dr. Inoma's office, you notice the door is ajar.  As you look inside, you see Dr. Inoma argueing with a red half-dragon.  The half-dragon is wearing the personal regalia of the Imperial Court.

"I don't care if you did discover this phenomenon first.  Imperial Law states that all such discoveries are to be routed through the ISPD immediately.  You know the dictates that the Emperor has in place in case of all such dangerous discoveries.  Now, hand over the information, or we shall place you under arrest for sedition and take it without your cooperation."  The half-dragon snarled pointing at the data pad on the table.

"And I told you, that this is my discovery, and I haven't even gone to research it yet before I send the information to the ISPD!  I am in the process of doing just that right now.  Your presuming much on little authority!  Now get out of my office, before I have you thrown out!"  He yelled, not backing down.

Oh for the love of... you've got to be kidding me.  Barely a couple of minutes on the job and already we're hitting a lovely ISPD snag!?

Boy oh boy... does Regannos really know how to pick 'em!

Vorneyl watched as the doctor and the official bickered back in forth over "who has the biggest authority".

Making an oddly metallic sound of a natural gesture, Vorneyl "clears his throat" for a moment to get the doctor's attention and then says with a polite smile, "Umm... Dr. Inoma isn't it?  I know we were supposed to be meeting now... but... ahh... if you're rather busy at the moment, we can always come back later when it is more convenient for you."

As he says this last bit, Vorneyl gives a "significant glance" over to the half-dragon and raises an eyebrow as if to say: You have company, want us to come back?

You see Dr. Inoma shake his head no.  "There is no need.  My...friend here is leaving."  He spoke, gesturing for the half-dragon to leave.  The official snarls in anger and contempt, leaving the office.  As he passed, the hint of sulfur is strong, and the half-dragon glances over all of you.

As you enter the room, Dr. Inoma straightens his desk.  "I take it that you are the representatives of Daguam di Thrae vur Xarzith.  I am sorry you had to see that, but when we release tidbits of information, it appears the ISPD thinks its their right to interfere.  Now, who do I have the pleasure of working with?"  He asked, looking over each of you.

Vorneyl straightened himself up as he watched the official depart.  Oh yeah... that boy's intending to cause trouble somewhere down the line... you can bet his shiny red scales on that one.  I wonder just how much official "juice" the Doc must have to be able to order a half-dragon ISPD official around like he was a common office boy?

Vorneyl focused on the Doctor, displaying his credentials and said in a polite tone, "That is correct Dr. Inoma.  We are from Daguam di Thrae vur Xarzith and were sent here by our mission supervisor, Lord Regannos of House Sarava.

I am Vorneyl Kenath, the tactical team leader and the in-the-field point man for Lord Regannos, who maintains overall strategic mission oversight.

With me are my team: Sister Aria, Jouhan Calader, Paladin Kalic Vorniir, and Cleric Saxon.  Back at home base is the rest of my team under Captain D'Arville of the Silverwing and Commander Karde of the Wild Kardes."  Vorneyl points out each member as he names him or her.

After a brief pause, Vorneyl glanced back at the door where the official departed in a huff and then back at Inoma as he said in a wary tone, "So Dr. Inoma... before we get into the specifics of the job you have for us... I'd like to know if we can expect additional, future visits from the ISPD while we are working for you on this job?  And if so, have you made it clear to the Daguam di Thrae vur Xarzith management regarding the likelihood of continued ISPD involvement and potential interference with yourself and/or this job?"