Day 1: 363-1107

The first leg of the trip was down the coast, heading for the wide swampy delta where the Nahahnir emptied into the sea. First went the 3-person scout hovercraft, followed by the passenger hovercraft and finally the cargo craft. The dark green coastal waters passed quickly and smoothly, the GEVs throwing up spray as they forged through the waves.

After five hours travel, the expedition had left the open ocean and was in the delta, passing through a wide channel and into one of many inland lakes. They passed by abundant wild life, not easy to see at their speeds. Flying grazers, amphibians, and some hoofed grazers that took off immediately.

Near the end of the first day, they passed by a cluster of fishing boats on the wide, long lake. The expedition detoured around them to avoid swamping the small boats. It took a little time to realise the natives where throwing spears at them!

However, the spears weren't even coming close.

OOC: The Map has been updated a little. I found a quicker route! You can make about 50 km/h on the river and in the delta (so, 1 hex/hr). You can make about 10-15 hours of "progress" a day depending on circumstances, or 9+1D6 hours.

In reply to GM (msg # 1):

Walker sat in the cargo GEV and watched the natives through his binoculars.

"Wog's aren't hitting us, this time."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 2):

Walker spoke too soon. The first spears missed the scout GEV in the lead and the passenger hovercraft behind it as they were moving too fast. However they came down right in the path of the cargo craft!

OOC: Is Walker inside or on top?

In reply to GM (msg # 3):

Walker put down the glasses and contemplated a response to the spears.  He pulled out his rifle, loaded it, and started tracking targets through the scope.

OOC 1:  Not planning on firing unless they really start getting close.
OOC 2:  Inside the GEV, too much spray from the fans of the other vehicles.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 4):

Neva looked over at Thomas and arched an eyebrow.  "You were saying?  It looks like they are getting better.  Does anybody know if those spears have poison or tipped in something or just regular spears?"

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 5):

"You'd have to ask our guides.  I've been wrong before, and I'll be wrong again." he said, his eye to the scope on the rifle.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 6):

Neva did something she seldom did...she chuckled.  "We are all wrong at some time or another.  It's just a matter of hoping that you're right more than you're wrong.  Yeah, I'll try to remember to ask them...after a bit. Think I"ll wait until after they get tired of throwing spears at us unless, of course, you get hit by one."

Neva grinned at Thomas when she said the last part.

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 7):

"I'll try not to get hit.  They're barbed."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 8):

Neva nodded and tried not to smile.  "Probably a wise thing.  I think I will try not to get hit also.  As long as we keep moving we should be ok.  Although if you can manage to get one without getting injured yourself, I'd like to examine it.  Of course I want the barbed tipped too."

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 9):

"We'll have to depend on the Wog's accuracy to hit the GEV.  I doubt our university sponsor is interested in stopping to collect an item of current material culture."  He watched as another wog prepared to launch another spear at the craft.

"Perhaps someday they'll be interested in talking to us.  Or they've learned from other times Solo Mani has been through that either we're likely to take their stuff, or that we've got stuff worth taking."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 10):

Neva nodded.  His answer didn't surprise her for she had already come to that conclusion. She was talking more to keep to her promise that she needed to talk.  There were days in her not so distant past that she hadn't talked for days.  One of her fears was that she would forget how.  Her brain would be screaming for her mouth to open up and let the words out but she wouldn't remember how.

"I wasn't there for all of your introduction.  What did you say you did before this gig?"

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 11):

I'm a hunter.  A shooter.  Unlike Ken, I'm a specialist.  I hunt the big predators.  All the big predators.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 12):

Four or two legged Neva asked.  There wasn't any judgment in her tone, she just wanted to know for she had down people who hunted both.

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 13):

"Both.  Worked for the police off and on when a perp spooked and hit the bush.  I was a contractor, not a hitman."  His tone was flat and quiet.

Ken watched the natives carefully, his own weapon ready if needed although given the ride he kept the safety on.  "We can use your skills here Thomas.  I have a feeling that there is more going on in the Outback than meets the eye.  Given how Old Lin was whacked I'd not be surprised if there aren't rivals who may be tracking or chasing us." He glanced over at Neva and smiled at her increased openness on the trip.  "We'll need all of our skills to get through this I am thinking."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 15):

Neva gave a Ken a small return smile.

"There's always somebody tracking or chasing.  It's just a matter of time before they slip up bad enough for us to see them.  I mean...there's always a rival some place that wants to take the short cuts to fame and glory. But you're right.  We will need all our skills.  Glad both of you are with us and decided to ride with me."

Ken nods and his smile widens for a moment before his eyes turn back to watching the natives.  "I appreciate the company also Neva."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 15):

"Yeah, I've been thinking about that.  Depending on how they are tracking us, either this boat trip will slow them down, or won't make a difference.  I know there's electronic tracking devices, but I have no way to identify one or tell if we're being tracked."

He inhales, exhales part way, holds rock steady, and then exhales.

"Once we're on dry ground, I can backtrail and perhaps see what's following us, if anything.  If I was by myself, I can pretty much move through the bush without leaving much of a trail, but I have to think about it, and be very careful.  With a party like this, there's not much chance of not leaving a trail, especially if we're moving through swamp.  I'll do what I can to clean up after, but...." he trails off, leaving the obvious unstated.

A couple spears clanked off the hull of the cargo craft, but everyone inside was quite safe.

They quickly left the fishing boats behind. A few hours later, they made camp on the far end of the lake. They were past the river delta and out of the lower swamp, and the lake was considered the actual start of the main channel of the Nahahnir river.

Camp was prefab sleeping, mess and work tents, surrounded by a motion detector alarm system. At this TL, guards (human and Gog) were also necessary and the staff provided sentries for the night.

Dinner was canned food, barely palatable but nourishing and a half step above military style "C Rations".

In reply to GM (msg # 19):

Neva stared at her can of food and smiled as she ate it.  She closed her eyes and savored the bite.  The problem, she thought, with most people and food, is that they had too much of it.  Don't have food for a bit and you'd be surprised at how good even bland can taste.  This canned food, for example, wasn't anywhere near the steak that she had gorged herself on earlier but it was better than dumpster diving.  It was all a matter of perspective.

Ken listens to Thomas carefully.  He knew somewhat of the wilds in his own capacity as a marine but the hunter was a true professional.  "Let's stay alert for shadows if we can Thomas.  Hovercraft seem to be the standard transport out here so anyone following us would be just as able to follow through the water and swamp as we are I think."

"If you can disguise the path of the GEV's then it can't hurt.  It seems like that once we are back on land they'll leave a big swath of disturbed vegetation.  Still, if you can back track it might be worth it one night to head back along our path or maybe even leave you behind briefly as a scout.  We could circle back and get you if you don't see anything."

As they sit down for a meal he pulls up a camp chair next to Neva.  "Not quite the luxury rations we had back in town."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 21):

"If we hit some savannah, there ought to be something better to eat than this stuff.  Not as bad as cold monkey on a stick.  The problem I see with your idea is that while I can cover a trail, the amount of damage that the GEV's will do is more than I can disguise by myself."

He poked at his food a bit and set the can down for a moment

"I hate cold camp.  I could use a spot of tea.  Anyway, if we do decide to do the backtrail, I'd prefer to have a couple mates along, so's I don't get into more trouble than I can handle."

"That's why I said I was unlike you when I said I was a specialist.  You're a generalist at killing people and breaking things.  I'm a specialist, I only kill them one at a time, from a long distance."

Ken nods to Thomas.  "Sorry if I misspoke.  I agree that the GEV trails would be impossible to hide as they go through the brush." He thinks; "I'd head with you if we do decide to do a back track.  I've plenty of experience setting ambushes that might come in handy."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 23):

Walker nods.

"We'll see what the morning brings."  Finishing his dinner, he stands and stretches.

"Who's in charge of setting up watches?  I'd prefer to take an early morning one.  I've been watching the fishermen back at the hotel, and I'm curious what I'll learn here."

Ever the barkeep, Linus produced a few sauces and other items to enhance the canned rations, sharing them around with the others.

Ken ate heartily and then volunteered for the first watch.  He set up a system of tripwires and little alarms around camp and then walked his post.

"If you want to, then I think that's a good idea. Otherwise, Juan can set the schedule."

---

3 Hunters/Guides (Juan himself plus Hal Lewis, Fatima Kelendrin). Each has a scoped rifle/revolver/machete)
4 Licened GEV pilots (Ross Carnam, Harmon Jael, Jaime Crain, Harve Cohen. All armed with autopistols/blade.
7 Support Personnel (commo operator: Lev Novo, medic: Xu Li Feng, 5 Gog guards/stevedores: Stanley, Michael, Teodor, Miguel, Karlssen). All armed with revolvers and either shotgun, SMG or scoped carbine.

"If you want to, then I think that's a good idea. Otherwise, Juan can set the schedule."

---

3 Hunters/Guides (Juan himself plus Hal Lewis, Fatima Kelendrin). Each has a scoped rifle/revolver/machete)
4 Licened GEV pilots (Ross Carnam, Harmon Jael, Jaime Crain, Harve Cohen. All armed with autopistols/blade.
7 Support Personnel (commo operator: Lev Novo, medic: Xu Li Feng, 5 Gog guards/stevedores: Stanley, Michael, Teodor, Miguel, Karlssen). All armed with revolvers and either shotgun, SMG or scoped carbine.

Finishing his own dinner, Stanley, their Gog guide/stevedore motioned to speak with Thomas privately.

"I heard you call us "wogs" earlier. I understand that this is a very unpleasant and racist term, denoting contempt and disregard over an inferior. Humans call us "Gogs", which is similar and while better, is used as a term of disdain.

"Really, we are Mirayns, correct? Why not stick to that term to avoid future... confusion. No one will harm you, but I see no reason not to act with tact and respect. After all, we must trust and rely on each other out here."

In reply to Stanley (msg # 29):

"Wogs are people who throw spears at me, or shoot at me, regardless of species.  I have met some humans who were Wogs.  Gogs are an unfortunate slur on the native people from Miryan who talk to me.  That's the difference.  I will, however, keep your thoughts in mind when I speak."

He pauses.

"Do we have any hot water?  If not, I don't want to light a fire for myself, I can live without tea."

Stanley bowed in thanks. "Many thanks, my friend. There are few humans as enlightened as you. You do me a great honour.

"I shall be happy to get you some hot water, we have a heating unit. Do you take anything in it?"

In reply to Stanley (msg # 31):

"Give me a second..."

Thomas dug through his pack and pulled out a sealable plastic box and his canteen cup.  He sprinkled some tea leaves into the cup, and handed it to Stanley.

"Just pour some hot water over this, and I'll let it steep.  It's allegedly English tea, but I'm not convinced.  It's palatable, and this far from Churchill, I'll take it."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 32):

"My friend, it would be my pleasure."

He took the cup, filled it with water to steep and brought it back.

"My apologies, it is time for my watch. I do not trust these offworld devices, they malfunction too often in the jungle and the rain."

Stanley looked up at the drizzling overcast, hitched his shotgun on its sling, then smiled as he departed.

In reply to Stanley (msg # 33):

Walker watched Stanley walk into the rain, and nodded.

"Stanley, I'd like to pull an early morning watch, preferably around dawn, and the last one.  I agree on electronics and rain, you see."

Once he and Stanley had finished negotiating the watch schedule, he looked to the others.

"I have maintenance to do, so I'll catch up with you folks later."

He got up and took his case in one hand, and his tea in the other, to the cargo GEV, where there would be a flat spot out of the rain.  Setting the tea on a crate, safe from where he'd be working on his weapons, he laid the case out flat, and pulled a small can of oil from his backpack.  Carefully, he oiled the weapons, and checked his barrels for rust or fouling.

When done, he pulled non-lubricated condoms out of the maintenance kit, and fitted it over the barrel of the rifle and one over the barrel of the shotgun.  The rifle, he put away, the shotgun he kept to hand.

Poking around in the cargo GEV, he cleared/repacked tighter until he's created a flat space long enough for him to sleep on.  It was close to the roof of the GEV, but beat sleeping in a tent.

That done, he took his tea, and the shotgun, and sat down in a doorway on the vehicle, to watch the rain come down.

Once he'd eaten, Linus settled down.

"Wake me if you want me to stand a watch," he said, then laid down and was out like a light, snoring gently.

Ken headed out and greeted Stanley as he took the first watch.  "It's good to have you along Stanley.  We can use all of the steady hands we can manage.  What do you think of our crew of GEV pilots and help?  Do you know of their reputations?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 36):

Neva approached the Cargo GEV and looked around.  "You done staking out your position yet?  I'm going to move some things for me to sleep in here."

She had hoped to be first to the GEV but since Thomas beat her to it, the unspoken rules said he had first pick.

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 37):

"I grabbed a slot, close to the door.  Beats sleeping in the mud, I have, and will in the future, done enough of that."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 38):

Neva smiled.  "Yeah, I hear you on that.  I'll bunk down in the middle of the supplies then.  I don't mind rain but I can do without the mud."

A steady rain began to fall, warm on their skins despite the darkness.

"I do not know many of them personally, other than the other Mirayns.

"I know Juan, of course, the lead guide. Mister Carnam, the chief pilot, is a well-known hovercraft owner-operator, I have worked with him before, he treats us well. His pilots (Harmon Jael, Jaime Crain, Harve Cohen) you can probably trust to be competent.

"I do not know the other guides, Hal Lewis or Fatima Kelendrin, the radio operator or the medic."

Ken nods to Stanley.  "Keep your eyes and ears open as well as those of your fellow Miryans if you would. I'm afraid that we may be sabotaged given how Old Lin was killed."

He will avail himself of a tent for the night while not on watch.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 41):

"I will make sure to keep an eye out for sabotage. You try and get some rest, yes?"

He finished his own drink, then headed for his post. Night cries filled the jungle around them, a slightly cool breeze came off the large lake.

Ken nodded to Stanley and made his own check of the camp before turning in.

<ooc> I would think tacticcs-1 might give Ken some idea of camp security and moving through the wilderness safely. </ooc>

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 43):

Ken's tactical knowledge confirmed that military and expedition camps were different. The expedition relied on a perimeter of remote and beam sensors backed up by sentries. It was crescent-shaped, along the water where the vehicles were parked. Although people had been all right in picking up garbage, he still found some trash to police up.

A full military camp (company to battalion sized and above) would be basically triangular, with bunker fighting positions dug in at the corners and foxholes in between. Jungle would be cleared for fire lanes, there would be a command bunker, possibly fallback positions. A patrol camp on the other hand would leave as little visual signature as possible, with camouflaged tents, dugouts and lean-tos. Maybe they could do something like that, he didn't know how Lorain or Juan would take the suggestion!

The night was noisy but passed peacefully. Nothing breached the perimeter, there were a few false alarms due to the wildlife. The nylon tents worked well versus the rain and mud. There were tables and cooking gear set up, people ate well around a sputtering fire, then turned in. The cargo GEV was a little stuffy and rocked in the current of the river.

Day 2: 364-1107

The morning dawned grey and muggy. There was no rain, for once, and camp was stuck with only a few mishaps as people were unfamilliar with the gear, this being the second day.

They set out again, entering the Nahahnir river where it drained into the lake. The river was no longer traveling through swamp but jungle. So far, they didn't see anything of archaeological interest, no Reynarik ruins or traces of civilisation like stone river piers. It implied that Dr. Messandi (Sr.) had perhaps made side trips up various tributaries or ventured away from the river in his travels. Either way, they were going for speed and Lorain insisted they pressed on. If they came up empty farther up the river, they could return to explore later.

The only encounter of note was with an enormous Syanniltuk, an elephant-sized beast sometimes domesticated as a mount and beast of burden by tribal Mirayns. It was swimming across their path and they startled it. Harve Cohen was piloting the scout craft, he narrowly avoided the creature as it reared up out of the water! Ken and Linus had to hang on for dear life to avoid being thrown.

They soon passed it by and the gigantic 6-legged beast resumed its swim.


That night, they set up camp in the jungle on the shore of another immense lake. It was raining again, but at least the ground was more solid and they didn't have to hunt for an islet like they would in the swamp. The insects were still pretty bad.

Distance travelled:    600km
Distance to Date:     1100km
Distance to Adylatra: 3150km
Distance remaining:   2050km
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:50, Tue 10 July 2012.

Ken approached Thomas.  "We're going to leave signs of our camps no matter what.  I'm not sure if it's worth trying to camouflage the camps as anyone following us could track us right to the camp anyway."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 45):

"Me either, but if we don't do something, we're giving it away.  Should make an attempt."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 46):

Neva looked over at the two men.  "They will expect it.  It doesn't have to be the best cover up job but they will expect us to try and cover it up.  If we don't, then it will raise more curiosity and speculation and perhaps even animosity.  I say to try but not take too much time on it."

Ken nods to Thomas and Neva. "Well, I intend to talk to Juan about it first.  Would you two like to come with me?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 48):

"Yeah, that's a good idea."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 48):

Neva gave a half smile to Ken.  "What is it that they say?  The more the merrier?  Sure, I'll come with you.  Lead the way."

With the others Ken heads off to find Kelso and speak to him about improving their camp discipline to help throw off any pursuit.  "I'd like to get Kelso aboard before talking to Loraine."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 51):

Listening to them during a rest stop, Kelso seemed unreceptive as he smoked a cigar. He grumbled, "I don't see the point. If they know we're going up the Nahahnir, they won't need to know where we bloody camped. If anyone is following us.

"Camp cleanup is already pretty good, even if we're not trying to cover up presence. Anyone looking for our tracks has their work cut out for them. Way I see it, it's Lorain's show, she wants it, I'll do it."

It looked like he considered the discussion over. Kelso didn't seem to really care and maybe thought it was an imposition, but he wouldn't go out of his way to frustrate this idea, either.
This message was last updated by the player at 04:11, Fri 13 July 2012.

Ken nods to Juan a bit ruefully.  "Maybe it's the Marine Recon blood in me but I hate leaving a trail.  We can at least enforce some camp discipline if nothing else.  If you have no objections then we'll talk to Lorain and the other passengers.  Can you make sure the staff are working to keep things hidden as best we can?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 53):

Kelso snorted, either in derision or amusement. "Camp discipline? Keeping things hidden? Look, mate, this ain't a military unit. We are travelling fast, there's only one river here.

"We already clean up camp, it's part of the expedition protocol. It could be better, sure. Still, we don't have military experience.

"What we unfortunately do have are three hovercraft moored out in the river. You want us to bring those ashore and to hide them? Plus the tents? Now, we don't have any camouflage netting, so that means cutting down foliage. Lots of foliage. Plus, anyone with a thermal camera can detect us because, as mentioned, we don't have camo netting. Even after we leave we'd have to reduce our persistent thermal footprint."

"Look, I don't see the point. You convince Ms. Messandi? Good on you, I won't stomp my feet and refuse."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:53, Fri 13 July 2012.

"Well, the main thing is to be wary and keep everyone on their toes.  A bit more care in setting and policing the camp will keep us all focused.  I'd hate to be ambushed by the Miryans or anyone following us.  We found a man who had been on Lorain's father's expedition and he was beaten up and killed the other day.  I think that there are people watching us to see what Lorain can find."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 55):

"Fine, point taken about possible opposition. Don't see how policing up camp helps for ambush, guess you're volunteering to be on point and not in the last fucking hovercraft. So we done here?"

He went to throw down his cigar, but thought better and snuffed it out, putting it in his pocket.

Ken smiles a bit as Kelso holds on to the cigar but doesn't make a point of it.  "Well, I've found that tail end charlie can be as dangerous as lead but yea, I'll take the Scout GEV."  He looked at Thomas; "I think we're done.  I'll go talk to Lorain."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 57):

Lorain looked up from where she was working at a terminal. It was a holographic display of a fresco from some Mirayn ruin along the coast to the south of Val Preszar. She was examining the various construction methods revealed by advanced sensor imaging techniques.

"Hi, Ken. What's up? I'm glad we're moving quickly, although I have a feeling that we're missing the secondary and tertiary sites that led my father to Adylatra we have a real leg up knowing that crucial way-point."

The camp got settled in for the night. Dinner was served, then cleared away. Perimeter defenses set up, a watch set.

Ken peered over at the holo; "No point in tarrying if we have the information to go right to the key areas."  He frowned.  "I'm glad we are moving fast but I'm a bit worried about being followed after what happened to the old man we were talking to back in town.  I'd like to make sure everyone in the group does a better job of disturbing things as little as possible and picking up any trash that might give any clues to a pursuer."

Linus listened intently.

"Better for the environment, too," he commented. "Being as wilderness expeditions are a nice little earner for the planetary economy, we want to keep it nice and undamaged."

Lorain sat back and sipped tea from a camp mug. Interested, Talia looked up from where she was working as well, classifying samples of Mirayn flora.

"I see. The attack on Mr. Lindon was very distressing! Yes, by all means do what you can, I think it's a good idea. Let Mr. Kelso know."

Sir Kensing was playing cards with the other hovercraft pilots for Mirayn francs, and losing. He was drinking good scotch from a flask while smoking a thin cigar.

Ken smiled at Linus' comment.  "There is that too.  Keep things clean."

"Ok Lorain, we'll do what we can.  I already talked to Mr. Kelso about it.  He pointed out that we already leave quite a trail but isn't opposed to at least a little bit of camp discipline. I'll talk to everyone in the morning about it."

1107 365-1108-001

The next couple days travel up the lowland jungle river passed without sign of pursuit.

Perhaps because Ken was making a point to clean up the campsite, and be on point. As they weren't going into the jungle itself (less chance of leaving a trail) there was less chance of "close encounters" with the local wildlife. As well, there was no need to forage for food, water was processed on-site and they brought their fuel with them.

They passed through a few Mirayn villages. These inhabitants seemed friendly and wanted to trade food for offworld trinkets and material. Those that didn't want to hid in the jungle until they passed by. None made a move to attack.

The head-man of one village that talked to them through Stanley recalled the Messandi expedition a couple years back, but the details matched what they already knew.

On the third day they could see mountains now, in the distance. These mountains marked their destination: Adylatra, on near shore of the great lake that was the beginning of the Great Swamp.

The fourth day of travel, Holiday wasn't a day off. Lorain did decide to call it an early day so that some celebration could occur. The first site was too close to where one of the local predator animals had made a kill. It ignored them, but then a massive (4000 kg+) 6-legged beast loped out of the jungle and claimed the kill as it's own. The hunter hissed and spat but grudgingly gave way. The "hijacker" (as Talia identified it) looked like it might want to have a go at the hovercraft bobbing just off shore.

Having heard that Miryans were particularly fond of partying for Holiday, Linus had come prepared and set up a 'bar' in the new campsite, from behind which he was happy to serve all comers to drinks and snacks.

In reply to GM (msg # 64):

Walker carefully watched the big scavenger from the cargo hovercraft, rifle in hand and sighted in.  His finger was outside the trigger guard, however, until it walked off.

"Not going to kill that big beauty unless it goes for us.  Take that head and mount it on the wall."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:44, Fri 20 July 2012.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 66):

Neva smiled at Thomas' words.  "As long as you keep it on your side of the cargo until you get back!  And drain it properly.  Don't need all that blood attracting more.  Hmmm.  Wonder how it would have tasted."

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 67):

"Scavengers taste bad, as a rule.  Like the big cats, they taste like waste products."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 68):

Sensibly, they found another place to camp. Not as optimal, but no 4200kg scavenger-hijackers were in the area, an acceptable trade-off.

Ken admires the big beast.  "That would be a great trophy Thomas.  I'd just rather avoid the thing myself."  Despite the holiday atmosphere, Ken will stay on edge and remain cautious.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:04, Fri 20 July 2012.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 70):

Neva didn't comment on the taste issue.  Perhaps Mr. Walker just hadn't been hungry enough to appreciate the meat.  On the other hand, he did seem to have tasted it before so that was something.

It's nice to know what they look like and it's weak points if need be.

Was all she said as her eyes kept darting back and forth from the cargo vehicle.

A (hopefully safer) site was chosen, camp was set up.

As the afternoon went on, all the expedition members bellied up to the bar set up by Linus. Some of the non-offworlder humans seemed a little bemused at drinking with Mirayns, probably a fairly novel experience for them.

Linus is equally comfortable serving Mirayn or humans, and is happy to do so for as long as people wish to continue the party.

Ken pulls Linus aside as he sips a drink. "Well done Linus, especially bringing the Miryans into the celebration.  I think this will gain some good will that might be helpful later."

Neva, while making progress with dealing with people, just felt that the party crowd, even on a safari, was a bit much for her to handle.  She sat over by the cargo vehicle where she had been sleeping and riding in and watched,  Making mental notes on how easily some seemed to deal with others as well as which ones were the more boisterous.

Linus looks a bit baffled.

"Whyever not? They are as much a part of the expedition as anyone else. Few come into Capital so I have not had many opportunities to get to know them, so I am making the most of the opportunity during this trip."

Ken lowers his voice.  "You saw the way many of the local humans treated the Miryans?  That kind of thing always comes back to bite you.  The least we can do is treat everyone here with respect.  We learned that early in the Marines with the different races and species that served."

"Makes sense... even if I'm Navy!" Linus grinned and passed Ken a drink. "See, still looking after you ground-pounders. As for the Miryans, they're people just like everybody else."

Ken laughs, raises his drink in salute to Linus and downs it;  "Well the Navy always knew how to drink!  And we always did need some one to take us somewhere to fight."

02-1108

The Holiday celebration went well, the humans and Mirayns got along well, or at least well enough.

A couple more days travel up the Nahahir brought them to the edge of the inland sea that was the border of the Great Swamp. Before them was the small village of Adylatra at the mouth of the river. Smoke from cook fires drifted into the overcast sky. Rain spattered down.

As they approached, Stanley said over the radio, "this village is of a coastal tribe. The people there should be friendly. Who wants to go in? I can come and translate, if need be."

Ken glanced at the others; "I for one would like to stretch my legs and see some of the native village."  He went over to Lorain;  "Do you want to come and see if we can find any rumors about your father's expedition?  It's been a few years but some of them may know something."

"I'll come along," said Linus.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 82):

"I'll come along too.  Maybe I can find some sign of him."

For this trip he slung his shotgun, muzzle down, to keep the rain out of his barrel.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 83):

Neva looked up from her spot.  "Well don't expect me to stay behind.  Somebody needs to keep an eye on you guys."

She smiled when she said it and got up to join the others.  She grabbed her weapons and slouched into a better position to let the rain fall off of her.

Stanley did a headcount. No one seemed interested in joining them, if they were, they could easily catch up.

"We'll land just short of the village, then."

He slung his own shotgun.

Ken nodded and checked his pistol and long arm.  "Should we bring any trade goods with us Stanley?  I'd imagine our money isn't much good here."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 86):

"Good idea> I was thinking of putting the hovercraft in, but doing trading now would save time."

Some trade goods were located, carried by Ken in a backpack. The vehicles were moored about 100m or so downstream, and they walked down a path to get to the village itself.

The village was located at the mouth of where the river spilled out of the inland lake/sea. There were about ten huts or so visible, but Stanley said that there were at least double that amount hidden in the jungle behind hedges and bushes cultivated as fencing. Near the shore was a slightly larger hut, the headman's resident.

Several shallow boats were pulled up onto shore, many more were out on the lake. (Mirayns made good fishermen, as one set of arms could scull while the other pair handled the nets.)

A couple of small Mirayn children ran up, squealing in their language. Stanley greeted them, then sent them off. The chieftan met them at the edge of the village, carrying a spear and wearing a baseball cap (IISS logo). They talked, Stanley translated, "he says hello and welcome."

OOC: This reminds me of Myanmar. The fishermen in Inle Lake would caste and handle the fishing nets with both hands. They would stand balanced on one leg, while hooking their knee and foot of the other around an oar to scull without using their hands.

"How do you say 'hello' in your language, Stanley?" asked Linus, looking around curiously.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 89):

Stanley wore an expression that Linus was beginning to recognise as the Mirayn equivalent as a smile.

"It's..." he kind of gobbled and clicked. "Now you try it!"

Linus made an attempt..."!Kung!" but it didn't really come out quite right, he's not tried an epiglottal click before.

He grinned. "You'd better tell him 'hello and thank you for your kind welcome' on my behalf. I'd probably declare war or insult his grandmother if I tried..."

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 91):

Walker looked around, this didn't seem too different from any other village in the bush, it just had more arms than he'd seen in a while.  The IISS cap, on the other hand, pinged on his 'pay attention to me' meter.

"Stanley, could you ask the guy with the IISS hat where he got that?  I just want the story, not the hat."

Ken shouldered the bag and followed the others to the village.  He looked about curiously his time on other worlds spent more on killing things than touring about.  He watched Linus try to duplicate words in the local language and chuckled.  "I'll stick with using you as a translator if you don't mind Stanley.  My throat just doesn't work that way." He watches as the local leader approaches and bows.  "Can you ask about Lorain's father's expedition?  Perhaps gifts might help lubricate the conversation."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 93):

"I will. And about the hat."

An exchange in the native tongue ensued. Fairly elaborate, including pointing out over the lake towards the Great Swamp.

Stanley turned and said, "he says they remember when Professor Messandi came through here. He left a sick man here, Old Lin, who they thought was going to die but was picked up by another group. These were Imperial Scouts, charting the Nahahnir river (we are using their charts) for the planetary government and the League. They left the hat."

"They told Messandi something that got him very excited. There is a "road of stone", very straight, a ways away. Near a village in the Great Swamp called "Sanalaysa".

"He is willing to have someone take us. For suitable gifts, of course."

"I think we ought to take them up on that. What do you recommend as an appropriate gift to mark their kindness?"

Linus was getting quite excited now... only now was he realising just how dull bartending was!

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 95):

"I agree.  Do they need a predator dispatched or something?  I don't have a lot in trade goods/gifts, but I can kill something that's been bothering their village."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 96):

Neva nodded.  "I doubt that I have anything they want but I have seen people gift things I wouldn't have thought of.  If I have something that would work, let me know."

Mini-Retcon:

She noted that some of the expedition members seemed to be pairing off. Lorain's friend Talia (aka Dr. McKenzie) had been sitting close to Harve Cohen and flirting, the rather dense fellow finally got the signal and by the end of the night they were becoming close indeed. Hal Lewis and Harmon Jael also seemed to be flirting and exchanging chemically-laden signals between the two young men. Sir Kensing tried to seduce one of the guides, Fatima Kelendrin, and failed miserably. He drank heavily after that.


GM Note: Many apologies, I totally meant to post this earlier, but somehow completely forgot. Not that this changes anything in the current situation, it's something Neva remembered from the night before. Kind of a Ret-con of sorts, although it's not a change in continuity but more maybe something Neva remembers.

He looked through the knapsack.

"We have some blades. Steel knives. That should do nicely, and be useful."

Talking with the chieftan, he quickly made a deal.

"Excellent. He will guide us there tomorrow. Too late today. He mentions that the stone road is very long and straight."

This "Stone Road" was mentioned in Greene's diary, and Messandi believed it was an aircraft runway or taxi-way.

Ken hands the pack with the trade goods to Stanley, glad they had brought them along.  "Good work making the deal Stanley.  This stone road is our best break yet and it should be a good pointer toward where the Professor headed." He packed back up.  "Let's get back to the camp and let the others know where we stand.  Lorain will be pleased to hear that we've some word of her father and his expedition."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 100):

Indeed, Lorain was pleased. She decided to push on in the morning, see what they could find.

They set up camp on the outskirts of the village, next to the thick hedges and bushes that served as fencing.

The "offworld" members of the expedition had tents far more advanced than the Nylon pup and dome tents that were manufactured on Mirayn. These tents came in a hard shell case the size of a large suitcase/trunk. The poles and struts folded out automatically, although some assembly was required. The hard case included a combination A/C unit, water condenser/purifier/cooler and entertainment unit. There were 2 of these, 1 for Loriain and Talia with a second for Sir Kensing.

Ken will head back to the others to the camp and help set it up.  He will engage her in conversation about her and her father's work and her life growing up.  "So what do you think about the real source of the Sky Raiders Lorain?  Your father thought they were from here but there don't seem to be signs of a big technological society here.  There could be something lost back in the swamps but you'd think a truly developed and rapacious society like the Raiders would have left more behind."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 102):

She smiled and invited him into her tent. It was pretty well-appointed, with a cot, refrigerator, workstation-table, air-conditioning.

"Let's just say I'm trying to keep an open mind. There could be cities other than Tlaynsilak hidden deep in the Great Swamp. The oceans have risen in the last 5,000 years, so seaports and starports could be underwater. Sophisticated weapons could do much to erase most infrastructure, especially if they were concerned about biodegradable materials.

"Do I think my father's right? I'd like to think so, but I'm not risking my reputation on it. It would be nice, a real feather in my cape, if he was right. If not, I have other data relating to my own thesis that I can use. So it's not a wasted trip."

She offered him a drink of cold water distilled from the humid air.

Ken smiled as he stepped into the tent.  The air conditioning alone was worth the trip not to mention the pretty woman.  "To be honest this expedition is an eye opener for me so far.  I've been all over the wilds on a lot of planets but this is the first time I've actually been looking for things rather than blowing them up."  He took the glass of water gratefully. "Maybe the Sky Raiders or Miryans in the case fought a civil war and wiped themselves out.  From what I read of your father's book there wasn't anyone else around at the time that could have taken the battle to the Sky Raider's home world."  Ken gets a bit excited; "If they hit the biosphere hard they could have caused the flooding you are talking about." He seems genuinely interested in her ideas.

"Your father's theories certainly gathered some controversy.  I'd have to admit they brought me here.  Not to dig for relics directly but bodyguard work."  Ken sips his water.  "They say your work was some of the best in the book.  Arranging this expedition in the face of skepticism takes guts as well as smarts."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 104):

"Oh, probably more guts than brains to arrange this. It's important not to have a strong opinion on the matter, it leads to "confirmation bias" one way or another.

"The only ones who could have opposed the Sky Raiders in that time period were the Vilani, the so-called 1st Imperium. As for where the Sky Raiders went, there is evidence of a massive pandemic coupled with an increase in global temperature caused a population collapse and radical transformation of the physical topography and environment all at once. Seas rose, forests turned to upland swamps.

"One way or another, I hope that in the process of tracking down my idiot father (who is hopefully safe) we can shed some light on the subject."

Ken smiles at her approvingly; "Gut's will get you damn far in this world.  Add in your brains and quiet honestly good looks and you'll go far Lorain.  I expect to see you standing on the podium in Institute for Systems Studies some day soon accepting the Medallion of Science."  He gets a thoughtful look on his face.  "I can see your point about remaining open minded.  'Confirmation Bias'... we didn't call it that in the Marines but if you came into a battle with a preconceived notion of enemy behavior they could get inside your decision making loop and cut you to bits."


He listens as she talks, still obviously fascinated by her discussion.  Ken was not a stupid man but his education and intelligence had been focused up until now on military matters. [INT 8/EDU 8]  "Well, if I remember my history the Vilani never got out this far, right?  Now as far as Miryan you are saying that this plague and environmental catastrophe could have not only caused or led to the collapse of the Sky Raiders but masked their remains?  That sounds quite likely then if only we can find something concrete."

As she continues Ken pulls out a flask and offers it to her.  "This is actually a pretty good gin which would go well with the ice and cold water.  Would you care for some Lorain?  It is Holiday after all."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 106):

"Did I say "idiot father"? I meant "adventuresome" and "swashbuckling"."

She looked up Vilani settlements on the terminal linked to the expedition computer.

"Hmm. Vanejen/Rhylanor is the farthest spinward colony of the Zira Sirku (1st Imperium) that we know of, settled during their 3rd colonisation wave. 5,000 years ago, the Vilani hadn't wiped out or absorbed all the client-states and "barbarians" on and beyond their borders. While the Zira Sirku itself never expanded past the trailing edge of the Spinward Marches, this is just within their radius of influence. There could well have been Vilani client-states here in Foreven where we believe the Sky Raiders operated.

"We'll see if we can find my father's "Troy". Troy was an ancient pre-spaceflight settlement on Terra that was thought to be myth and legend until it was found 2,000 years later."

She politely waved off the offer. "Nothing more for me, thanks. We've got an early day tomorrow!"

Ken laughed; "Hopefully I'll be called swashbuckling rather than 'idiot' by my kids if I end up with any.  I guess father's always run that risk though."

He thought about what Lorain said;  "So maybe the Sky Raiders are a Vilani splinter colony gone bad or even a minor human race that got leaked technology and decided to go pirating.  Are there any records of Vilani client states here in Foreven?"

Ken shrugged at her refusal of the drink.  "We'll be really heading into the outback for the first time tomorrow."  He raised his glass of water in a toast; "To our 'Troy' then!"

Lorain toasted Ken, then bade him a good night.

"Maybe they are a Vilani splinter colony, many records were lost during the Long Night. I heard some Imperial traders recently verified the remains of a "lost colony" somewhere in the Outrim Void. If that's the case here, it should be easy to tell."

GM Note: This is sort of a shout-out back to the Traveller IISS game, which should have come across some lost colonies in their travels.

They were up early. First, after breakfast, the villagers showed them a couple of local Reynarik-era sites along the lake by the mouth of the river. There wasn't much left of what looked to be massive temples: tumbled piles of black basalt blocks, crumbled masonry, partially filled-in canals. They'd been looted and stripped decades ago. Once cleared, the jungle was reclaiming them.

Lorain took some pictures but felt they didn't really offer much in the way of new or interesting information.

The expedition vehicles made ready to travel to the "stone road", what Jothan had believed were parts of ancient runways.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:16, Wed 15 Aug 2012.

Ken nodded to Lorain. "Given the Troubles that the Vilani went through as their empire disintegrated I wouldn't be surprised if someone didn't flee out this far." He smiled at her as he took his leave.  "Good night Lorain, I hope you enjoyed the company, I certainly did."

Ken heads back and sits out watching the sky and surroundings for while as he drinks a bit.  Early in the morning he is up with the others helping to get things organized and ready.

"Well, let's hope there is more to find along the stone road or runway."

002-1108

0600 hours.

Everyone staggered out of their tents into a morning that was muggy and warm, even before the sun was barely up. It looked like Harve and Talia had hooked up, as well as Hal and Harmon.

At this distance from Val Preszar, long-range radio traffic was difficult due to interference in the ionosphere.

Adlyatra was still about 90km downriver from the inland lake that fed the Nahahnir river. Although still in the jungle, the village was on the verge of the deep swamp. Come morning, they packed up camp again, and the chief detailed a half-dozen warrriors to act as guides.

Along with Stanley, Juan talked to the chief, to get an idea of their route. They were SE of the lake, once they broke out onto open water they'd turn left and follow the shoreline west.

"The chief says the "Stone Road" is close to the village of Sanalasar. They are "wild" Miryans, in the deep swamp. Not civilised, like the coastal tribes. We'll try and steer clear when we pass by.

"Okay, who's going where? There's a pilot in the scout hovercraft so two passengers, then the passenger GEV and the cargo GEV."

Linus takes a seat in the scout GEV again. He's clearly enjoying the trip.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 112):

Neva happily settled into her spot on the cargo GEV.   She looked over at Thomas and gave him a small smile.  "You riding with me again Thomas?"

Drifting through her mind was a tidbit she remember reading some place that said it took less effort to smile than it did to frown.  She never did know how much effort or muscles it took to keep a neutral face.  She had gone through a "frowning" phase and a "neutral" phase.  Perhaps it was time to start a "smiling" phase.  That wouldn't be too bad as long as people didn't think her bonkers for smiling.  Some people just smiled all the time.  Kinda made you wonder what they were up too when they did that.  What is too much and/or too little to smile?  Being human sure could be confusing at times.

Ken took a spot in the scout GEV.

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 113):

"Yup.  It seems like we've sorted ourselves out, and I find the cargo GEV comfortable."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 115):

Neva nodded to Thomas and gave him a half smile.  "The company ain't too bad either."

0800

The others filed into the passenger GEV, along with the native guides.

Quickly, they passed from jungle river into the deep swamp. In about an hour and a half they made the vast inland lake.

Once they were on the lake, they turned left. The passenger GEV moved up beside the scout GEV, on the shoreward side, so their guides could get their bearings. After talking among themselves and Stanley, they indicated they knew where they were, and the group proceeded over the lake. The guides seemed to be quite enjoying themselves.

Wildlife was abundant here. Large beasts like 6-legged rhinos snorted and then sunk into the water as they passed. Same with several 6-legged alligator-like reptiles.

25km along the shore, traveling west, they passed a lakeside village, marked by a haze of blue smoke. Stanley confirmed, "that is Sanalasar, the hostile village of which I spoke."

Another 20km, the guards signalled they should start searching the shore. It looked like any other part of the swamp at first, mostly water and reeds with some trees growing out of high ground. The scout GEV started to comb the swampy shoreline, and after about a half-hour found what they were looking for.

The Stone Road.

It was visible about 100m in from the indistinct verge of the shore, where it came out of the water and was then visible along high ground. Once covered by soil, plants and trees, it had been excavated and uncovered some time in the recent past, perhaps a year or so. It was 10m wide (roughly standard runway width), gleaming whitely in the watery light of the morning rain. It emerged from the murky water, disappeared into the dark jungle.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:26, Tue 21 Aug 2012.

In reply to GM (msg # 117):

Once the GEV's were secured on the road, Walker hopped out of the cargo one, holding his rifle in his right hand.  Without much ado, he started examining the edges of the road.

Ken climbed out of the scout GEV and examined the area around them for likely ambush points.  He let the others examine the road in detail while he maintained a watch for hostiles of whatever variety.  He did make an observation.  "If it's a road let's project it straight in both directions and see where it heads."  He turns to Lorain;  "It seems we are on the right trail Lorain!  Since it looks like your father might have been working here I say we follow it into the deeps of the swamp and see where it takes us." Ken will project the road in both directions on the map to see if anything interesting presents itself.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:47, Mon 20 Aug 2012.

The jungle and swamp is thick enough that were someone wanted to ambush them, they wouldn't see it unless Ken stumbled across it. So, he got out and checked the surrounding area, and it was obvious there was no one there in waiting.

They just drove the vehicles up, the road went into the lake and so made an excellent boat ramp.

The road was just that. Lorain identified it as being what was known as a "Roman Road". It was fitted stone, very well made, but not an aircraft runway. Over the millennia, soil had been washed over or drifted atop the road, and so a couple metres excavation of plants and dirt was needed to expose it. The excavation looked to be mostly mechanical, although it was hard to tell what machine had been used.

The road disappeared into the jungle about 100m away where the excavation stopped. Drawing a line on the map showed that it was northwest-southeast. The northwest direction led into the lake, the southeast direction led further into the swamp.

Linus was also looking around, and taking plenty of photographs. He's just plain enjoying the trip!

Ken shook his head.  "Damn jungle could hide a battalion of troops waiting to ambush us." He headed over to the group looking at the construct.  "So it's a road not an airstrip?  That fits in more with the local tech level but it's not conclusive.  I'd say our beset bet is to follow it further in and see where it leads."

Ken shook his head.  "It seems that we should continue to the north west deeper into the interior.  The unknown seems to be the most likely choice.  Still, it would be good to trace the road back the other direction into the swamp itself."

"Old Lin's diary talked about; '... Trail of Stone... lake...' and later, '... Prof says is a landing str...'.  Then they mentioned a place called 'Sanalaysa'.  We're at the village of Adlayra on the map but haven't found this Sanalaysa.  Do we dare ask the likely hostile natives if they've heard of Sanalaysa?  At the least I think this says we head into the lake area."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 123):

Juan scratched under his hat and squinted out over the water and down the road into the swamp.

"I think we already passed "Sanalaysa". Stanley called it "Sanalasar" but it seems to be the same place.

"As for northwest, I've been reading maps for a long time and "blue" means water. That is, northwest is the lake. Southeast is the swamp. We did come from the east, but not through that area."

Ken nodded in response to Kelso's information.  "So you think we should head southeast into the swamp after the road Juan?"  He turned to Stanley;  "Could we ask the locals if they know which way the professor's expedition traveled from here?"

He waves Lorain over;  "Which way do you think we should head Lorain?  Thomas, you've got good instincts as a hunter, what do you think?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 125):

Lorain was out and walking around, recording the road and excavation along with Linus.

"We lack dive gear, so let's see where the road leads on land for now."

The others began to deploy from the vehicles. The Mirayn guards set up a perimeter, Lorain, Talia and even Sir Drew began taking measurements and recording data.

Ken nodded.  "Good point Lorain.  Even if we tried to trace it to the other side of the lake we'd have to assume it kept on straight." He assisted Lorain and the others with the measurements.  "This seems well built but pretty low tech like much of the rest of the ruins we've seen.  I'd think a star faring civilization would build something more sophisticated.  It could be a relic of an earlier era or even some kind of post collapse civilization if the earlier, higher tech population crashed."

She nodded, looking over the lake, then into the jungle.

"Right now, one could go to Terra and walk on a road much like this, circa roughly the same period. Or a hundred other "lost colonies" that regressed after the Long Night.

"Or if they got their tech directly from a Vilani splinter colony their economy could be very spotty with high tech in a few key places and not much in the rest."  He smiled;  "I did pay attention in history class."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 130):

Lorain raised an eyebrow.

"Indeed! Very perceptive. There are plenty examples of retro-tech like this.

"Okay, let's see what Juan says about a route."

In reply to Lorain Messandi (msg # 131):

Juan looked at the map, then the swamp around them.

"We can travel pretty quickly through the swamp, almost as fast as the river. As long as there's water or grass. Even jungle should only slow us by, oh, half.

"Everyone, let's finish up, then get back aboard the vehicles."

Liisha stepped out of the jungle, zipping up her fly. "Sorry, just had to take advantage of the opportunity."

In reply to Liisha Laagir (msg # 133):

Slinging his carbine, Blake stepped out after her.

"Don't worry, I was keeping her safe. Old Scout rule, never get off the ship alone."

He got on board the passenger hovercraft.

Ken smiled back at Lorain.  "Not all Marines are rocks although we have our share of concrete in our brains."  He turns with her back to Kelso.  At the advice of the guide he nodded.  "Ok, let's head out then."

Ken's eyebrows lifted just a fraction as Liisha and Blake came back in from the jungle before helping to reload whatever digging or archeological gear had been used to examine the road. "Can I help you into the hovercraft Lorain?" He will take his place back in the scout GEV.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 135):

She laughed, amused. "Ha! Not all Marines are rocks, not all scientists are incapable of getting into a hovercraft!"

Still, she let him guide her into the vehicle.

001-1108
1000 Hrs

It had taken them just short of 3 hours to arrive at the current location. There was 8 hours remaining before sunset, although travel was possible using the vehicle lights and

The expedition guides conferred on the route. They'd go 100km (at this pace, 2 hours) SE into the swamp, along the course of the road. If they didn't find anything, they could head back and make it to Analaysa before darkness. If they did find something, they would have an hour to investigate.

"Everyone saddle up!" Juan commanded.

Ken laughed at Lorain's comment; "Touche Lorain...  If there is time in the evenings I'd like to learn a bit more about the background of the Sky Raiders." After seeing her settled he took his place in the scout GEV with a little whistle and spring in his step.

The hovercraft screamed out into the swamp. Soon, they ran out of cleared road, at about 200m. Then they ran out of high ground, and the road sank back into the brackish swamp water after about 5km.

Trees and vegetation had grown over the roadbed in the millennia since it was built and cleared, but they could navigate along its general course via the map. The GEVs weaved in and out of the clumps of trees and bushes, most hung with vines and moss, finding the patches of open water and stretches of reeds and long grasses that allowed them the fastest travel. Birds and other animals fled out of the way.

Ken kept an eye out for danger and the continuing trail from his position in the lead GEV.  He called back to Lorain.  "We can manage by the gaps in the trees.  Just hang on as it will be a bit more bumpy."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 140):

Lorain replied over the radio, "that's great... let's hope we find something in the next couple of hours before we turn back!"

The next couple hours were rather exiting, as the small convoy of vehicles threaded their way through the trees, over the water and meadows of swamp reeds.

Finally, as they were getting ready to turn around, Ken spotted something ahead. They were approaching one of the patches of high ground in the swamp. A wide swath had been cleared, revealing the Stone Road beneath the vegetation and dirt. Their navigation had proved dead on, even a hundred km along the road was following a razor-straight course through the swamp, even though they couldn't see it most of the time. Farther along, there was a hulking shape somewhere deeper in the swamp, a massive construction of some kind.


This message was last edited by the GM at 08:58, Fri 31 Aug 2012.

Linus checks the light... "Hey, that looks interesting! Have we time to check it out before we have to get back?"

A change of scenery is always nice, swamp swamp and more swamp.  Now we have a road, better.
wheres the pub?

Ken calls out to everyone that the road has reappeared.  "I say we push on and look at whatever that is up ahead." He calls Lorain;  "You need to come up and look at this.  We've got exposed road again and something up ahead."

Ken has the driver stop the scout GEV and climbs up on the roof, pulls out his binoculars and tries to make out what is ahead.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 146):

The other vehicles responded they copied, and soon came up behind to land on the end of the road. Again, it was odd the road was uncovered, although Lorain thought this particular clearing had been done by manual labour.

They had about an hour before they had to leave. Looking through his binoculars, Ken could see it was a tower of some kind, about 5-stories high. The trees around it were 3-4 stories high (triple canopy).

In reply to GM (msg # 147):

Liisha dismounted, slinging her rifle.

"I'm ready to go! Lead on, Ken. Or Blake, you're a friggin' Scout, you take the point."

In reply to Liisha Laagir (msg # 148):

Neva had to chuckle when she heard the comment about the ex scout should take the lead.  Ken Jenkins, from what little she had observed, was a go get them type of guy.  He must have skills for he was still alive, something that spoke of how good he was...or how lucky.

She climbed out and picked up her weapons.  Looking up at her traveling companion and calmly said, "Think I'll follow them.  See how much trouble they can get into."

Neva stood ready to follow the group and see if it would give them any more clues.

Linus jumped out and walked towards the tower-like structure, wondering what it might be.

Blake, takes out his carbine, checks the magazine and looks around forward..

"Point's always fun, lets go" and looks around to the others for the "go sign" and starts to move forward....

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 150):

Neva saw Linus approach the tower and shook her head.  "Mr. Spurance, you might want to approach the structure after the surrounding areas gets checked out more?  It would only take a bit longer."  She took some larger steps to catch up with him and then started to scan the area for anything that looked like it wasn't suppose to be there.

Ken lowered the binoculars; "It's a tower sticking well up above the trees.  I'd guess it's 20 to 30 meters tall.  Say five stories." He glanced about the area suspiciously.  "Someone went to a lot of trouble to dig this up and manually.  Let's keep alert as we move forward."

"Thomas is a hunter and I've got some skill from my days in the Marines.  One or the other of us should take the lead."  He nodded to Blake;  "If you want point that's fine.  Watch out for trip wires and such."

[How far are we from the tower?  Would we be better driving partway and then heading in on foot?  Regardless I assume the drivers and such will stay behind to guard the craft.]

Linus smiled.

"OK - doubt anyone's been here for years but the wildlife may resent being disturbed."

He waits for Neva to catch up.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 153):

They were about a half-klick from the tower. It rose about 15-20 feet above the canopy, difficult to see from this angle. There was vegetation on the outside, helping camouflage it from view.

Juan wanted to keep the main vehicles there, but they scout GEV could be used to get closer. Well, get 3 people closer! Otherwise, there were sufficient guards to keep local security.

"Go check it out, if it's safe, we'll bring up the other vehicles. If we get ambushed there, it will be tough to get them out of there."

"No problem.  One hour on point, and we swap?"

Walker tucked his pipe into his pocket, and went back to the GEV to get his rifle.  The shotgun he put back in the case.

"I'll go first.  Wish I had some monkey."

Ken nodded to Juan. "Keep the scout GEV back.  If there are sophonts about then we'll have a slightly better chance of approaching unheard and unseen without the roar of the engines." He smiled at the others.  "Let's walk then."

"You've got it first Thomas then."  He grabbed his pistol, a long machete and pack with gear before heading out.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 157):

They were about 200m out from the black stone tower rising above the trees. Thomas took point. Ken was next, then Neva and Linus. Liisha and Blake took up the rear.

The rest of the party waited behind. Juan had Stanley deploy the guards for all-around protection. The native guides from Adlyatra didn't seem to be uneasy, but didn't volunteer to accompany the others, either. "Those are ruins of the Old Ones. No thanks!" is what Stanley translated.

Within moments they were at the tower. It was the size of a small office building. Underbrush grew thickly all around it, and up the sides almost to the top. It was about 10m off the side of the road, but still there was a sizeable wall of vegetation separating them from it. There was no path cut through the foliage.

The tower itself was black volcanic-looking stone. There were several dark window openings near the top. The stone was likely dressed but difficult to see if there was ornamentation at this distance, under the clinging vine-like vegetation.

Before they left Ken asked Stanley;  "What do you mean by 'Old Ones'?"

Ken looked about as they approached the overgrown building.  "It looks like it's not been touched for years at least." He looked over at Lorain; "Let's cut our way through the underbrush and examine the place. That stone had to have come from a long way away."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 159):

Lorain looked up at the tower. "Sounds great! I'm surprised it's in such great shape. I'd love to get a look at it up close."

In reply to Lorain Messandi (msg # 160):

"Give me a little bit."  Walker shouldered his rifle and used the scope to spend some time studying the building.

"Let's take our time getting up to it.  I need time to check for sign.  I don't want to walk into someone's livingroom and not realize it."

Ken nodded.  "Good point Thomas, I was just thinking of natives living here but there could be animals that could den inside and not be obvious.  A couple of us should stand by with weapons while the rest hack a path."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 161):

Walker conducted a thorough search of the area from the road. It didn't look like the ancient building was inhabited by intelligent beings. Animals were harder to tell.

GM Note: make a Hunting roll to pick up any sign.
09:00, Today: Thomas Walker rolled 10 using 2d6+2. Hunting roll taking time.  Hunting +3.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:01, Fri 14 Sept 2012.

Linus passed the time looking at the vegetation beside the track.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 163):

There was no fresh sign or animal trails on the ground. However, Thomas thought he could see some kind of large bird or flying animal land on the roof.

At the all clear from Thomas Ken started hacking a path toward the tower.  "Keep me covered Thomas, Linus please."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 166):

"Yup."

Walker wrapped the sling from his rifle around his arm, and settled into the stance, watching both over Ken and the tower.

"There was a big bird that landed up there earlier."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 167):

Grunting, Liisha slung her own weapon, and unsheathed her machete.

She began chopping at the thick vegetation separating the tower from the road. In amongst the brush and vines were black formed stone blocks, which had obviously fallen off the crumbling tower. Soon, her upper body was covered in sweat and she wiped at her eyes.

GM note: it will take about ten minutes to chop your way to the base of the tower. Thomas was unable to do a thorough ground reconaissance due to the thick vegetation.

Sir Kensing walked up behind the group. He'd been looking daggers at Ken while he made time with "his" girl over the last day or so. It seemed he was brought out of his funk by the prospect of action and discovery.

"Lorain! You forgot to wait for me. Don't worry, I'll do what I can to help protect you. Along with these good people. Of course."

He unslung his high-powered hunting rifle and worked the bolt, chambering a round.

She replied, "that's wonderful to hear, Drew! You were napping, didn't want to wake you after that late night and all."

Ken looked back at Drew with a small snort that was audible only to Liisha.  "Nobles... he's pissed because Fatima gave him the brush off."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:30, Mon 17 Sept 2012.

Liisha chuckled as she stopped to take a sip of water. "No shit. He's also pretty hung over. I bet Lorain was hoping he'd moved on from her. No such luck, I guess."

Ken mopped his brow and took a drink from his own canteen as well as a salt tablet. Holding one out to Liisha he nodded.  "Well, he's been giving me the stink eye for making sweet with her." He gave a low chuckle. "Maybe she'd be happy for a white knight to carry her away."

Linus found a machete and joined in clearing a path to the tower.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 174):

Neva didn't volunteer to help with the vegetation for she was taking up a position to help with security.  She felt that she couldn't do both and if they got killed before reaching their goal, it wouldn't help matters any.

She turned her eye to the top of the building where Thomas had seen the large bird.  "Thomas, did you recognize the type of bird and when you said large...how large."

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 175):

"Never saw one before.  It was about 1-2m, wingtip to wingtip.  That sort of bird tends to be a predator or opportunist, so we'll keep an eye out for them."



He pauses for a moment, then quietly asks one of the Gog's to grab his shotgun from the cargo GEV.  "Horses for courses."
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:46, Tue 18 Sept 2012.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 176):

Neva nodded.  "Certainly big enough to take notice of.  I'll keep an eye out for them as well as anything else.  Wonder if it has a nest up that high."

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 177):

"It would be likely.  I've seen other predatory birds like that.  The bald eagle, for example used to nest as high as it could.  To be honest, I'm loathe to take an apex predator like this one.  You change the balance at the bottom very quickly, and can really mess with a local ecosystem.  They tend to be solitary or very small families at best, and mate for life.  The big carcharodons don't form bonds, they just do the deed and get the hell away from each other as fast as they can, so one doesn't eat the other."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 178):

Neva nodded.  "I'm not looking to kill it.  Just defend myself and us from it if it decides we look tasty.  They nest that high up for a reason and mean they are anti social so that's fine with me.  I can admire them from afar.  I think this eco system is messed up enough as it is anyway."

Blake looks up, with his carbine ready..

"eco-smeeko, if its between me, you and the bird, I vote for us, they can't help being what they are, and we can't either"

"We all want to survive, and that is the true admiration of it all."  Blake opens a zipper and pulls out some jerky and bites.  "It's all about food and survial, mates. Food and survival"

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 180):

If Blake had been looking into Neva's eyes right then, he would have seen a resolve in them that she hadn't had before.  Perhaps it came from her undercover days and shortly after when she had to fight for survival.  "Oh don't get me wrong. Like I said...if it is comes for me, I'll defend myself.  If that means killing it, so be it."

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 180):

"Perhaps, but I have the brains to be able to make a decision between the two.  It doesn't."

They waited while Liisha, Linus and Ken took turns chopping at the vegetation. Thomas, Neva and Blake covered them. Lorain stood nearby, examining the vegetation and ruins, Drew examined her. A light rain began to fall.

At some signal, four of the flying creatures far above them on the black stone tower took off, flapping through the humid swamp air to gain some altitude. They were coloured a leathery mottled green, somewhat pterodactyl-like but still a hexapod. In fact, the wingspan of these examples seemed to be closer to 3-4 metres wide. At some unheard signal they turned and dove in a loose formation towards the humans below them. Powerfully-jawed maws gaped open, displaying rows of sharp teeth as they shrieked diving into the attack.


This message was last edited by the GM at 02:36, Fri 21 Sept 2012.

In reply to GM (msg # 183):

Walker frowned.
"Not a bird.  Lizard."

He shouldered his rifle, and sighted in on the front one, and waited for it to come in a little closer and for the "moment of arrival."  Perhaps it would rethink it's choice.

[Edit]  At the moment arrival, he exhaled, and squeezed the trigger.

[Roll= 9, -8 penalties, +7 bonuses = 8] [Damage 8]
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:46, Sun 23 Sept 2012.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 184):

<edited>

Neva shouted "incoming" and aimed her shotgun at the creature.  As she did so she realized that she didn't have a shot and would have to wait for it to get a little closer. Hopefully one of the others could hit it with their weapons.  She took aim so that as soon as she could she'd take her shot.


"Lizard?  Great.  They are bad enough on the ground let alone in the air."
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:42, Sun 23 Sept 2012.

Seeing the creatures whirl to attack, Ken shouted and ducked under cover of some of the dense vegetation as he drew his auto pistol.

[Just a slight edit to show I am drawing the correct pistol type!]
This message was last edited by the player at 16:15, Fri 21 Sept 2012.

Linus continues chopping undergrowth.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 187):

"Lorain! I'll protect you, get behind me!"

Drew unslung his rifle, chambered a round, aimed, and fired.

00:30, Today: Sir Drew Kensing rolled 9 using 2d6.
00:31, Today: Sir Drew Kensing rolled 8 using 3d6. Damage.

This message was lightly edited by the player at 07:35, Sat 22 Sept 2012.

In reply to Sir Drew Kensing (msg # 188):

"What? Oh my God!"

Lorain was mesmerised by the sight of the screaming lizards, rolling in to attack. She scrambled to get behind Drew.

Blake takes aim at one of the flying creatures and fires a round from his carbine

"Take that..."


10:15, Today: Blake Renfield rolled 9 using 2d6.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:16, Sun 23 Sept 2012.

The four pterosaurs-like beings dove at the startled expedition members. They made difficult targets, weaving in and around the branches, leaves, vines and tree trunks of the surrounding swampland.

In rapid succession, Thomas' and Blake's bullets struck home on the lead creature, then Sir Drew's. The beast wobbled, then tumbled into the bushes below with a crash of broken branches. The following three creatures seemed to hesitate, then broke off their attack, splitting up and flapping their leathery wings as they wheeled and tried to gain altitude, trying to escape from the flashes and bangs in front of them.

Next Turn

Seeing that the gunfire seemed to frighten the creatures, Ken fired at them knowing he was well out of range.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 192):

Blake walks over to the downed creature, taking care, not sure that is it down for the count.

<<OOC>> I want to make sure that the pterosaurs-like creatures are dead, if not I want to put it out of its pain, no need for it to suffer <<OOC>>

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 193):

Neva let the others take care of the downed creature, preferring to save her ammo for when she needed it so she stayed on guard and alert for returning creatures.  She knew that creatures could be frightened off once but sometimes came back after regrouping.  She didn't want to waste the shotgun ammo if she didn't have to.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 193):

Blake quickly found the creature in the jungle, about 10m off the Stone Road. It appeared to still be alive, despite a couple bullet wounds and a broken wing.

The Mirayn that Thomas had fetch his shotgun ran up, accompanied by Stanley. Stanley was armed with an Autorifle, bipod folded and hanging from a sling across his waist.

"I saw the attack! Those were "arrowdracs"... very dangerous!"

Ken moved out from cover and watched the creatures fly away.  "Arrowdracs?  Are they common Stanley?"  He looks about at the party, in particular Lorain;  "Good shooting Thomas, Drew.  Is everyone ok?  Let's continue cutting the brush and investigate the tower while the creatures are scared away."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 196):

"Thanks, Ken.  Stanley, what other offensive capacity do they have?"

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 197):

Neva kept watch for other flyers but also had a question to toss over her shoulder.  "What about these arrowdracs?  Do they usually just swoop down to attack like that or do you think something spooked them up there?"

Hefting his autorifle, Stanley looked around for more.

"Flying and then landing on their prey using its weight to keep it down, flapping their wings to maintain balance as they claw and rip your flesh is not enough? Additional capabilities are needed? Not that I am aware of."

"The arrordrac is aggressive and when hungry, will attack anything that moves."

Smirking, Drew nodded and chambered another round. "My pleasure. Don't worry, Lorain, you were in good hands. Very good hands indeed." He gave her a hand up.

In reply to Sir Drew Kensing (msg # 200):

Lorain accepted the hand up from Sir Drew.

"My hero! You're too kind."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 196):

Returning into the jungle Liisha put her shotgun down and picked up her machete. "Ugh, break time's over! We're almost there. Another five minutes."

The cut was deep enough that it was like a tunnel into the greenery. The vine-covered black stone heap towered above them.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:38, Fri 28 Sept 2012.

Ken frowned and shook his head. "We've almost got the way cut to the tower if you want to see it Lorain." 

He headed back to help Liisha chop the last few yards to the tower. He shares his opinion with her. "Damn stuck up noble arse."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 197):

Walker scanned the sky for other threats.

Blake, pokes at the dead creature and asked Stanley "Can you eat it, or is thier any value in its hide?"

Stanley forced his way through the vines and undergrowth to where Blake knelt by the striken Arrowdrac.

"Yes, it can be eaten by humans is properly prepared. It's hide is worth a reasonable amount due to how difficult it is to bring one down. With the wing ripped and the bullet holes, it's worth a little less."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 203):

While most of the others waited on the road, Ken, Liisha and Linus chopped their way to the black stone wall. The last few meters were littered by partial and entire blocks of stone that had fallen from the wall. They stumbled along the wall, looking for a way in.

Soon, they came to a massive archway facing the open road. The vines and leaves festooning the outside hung down across it in a curtain. Behind the green tapestry was darkness, with the glow of some kind of open-air shaft inside the tower. The structure was massive and hollow, about 100m circular at the base and tapering upwards, with a 25m wide open-air shaft in the middle.

While they were finding the entrance, Neva, Lorain and Drew stayed on the road, near Thomas. Blake and Stanley were a ways off, looking at the mortally-wounded Arrowdrac.

In reply to GM (msg # 207):

"Ken, let us know when we can move up."

"If the lizard's still alive, kill it.  It's cruel to leave it wounded, to die slowly."

Ken looked about and shined his flashlight about.  "The way is clear, come on and check out the inside of the tower."

The Mirayn looked at Blake. "The choice is yours, my friend. It is a beast. The swamp tribes believe that they are spirits, too, and are to be respected."

Assuming no obvious threats in view Ken headed cautiously into the tower. He was careful for wild creatures as well as weakness in the structure.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 211):

Beside him, Liisha turned on the torch attached to her shotgun and followed. She slowly moved forward, splitting her time between using the beam to examine the roof (for falling debris) and floor (for footing).

"There's you, me and Linus. Should we take sectors?"

The Mirayn who'd fetched Thomas' shotgun from the transport padded up behind Ken.

"Stanley give. You? You take? Take, yes?"

He was holding Ken's holstered revolver from the cargo GEV. This was the ceremonial sidearm for Marine officers of the League, as much a part of tradition as the cutlass.

Ken nodded and took the fine pistol as he thanked the Miryan in a few awkward words of the native tongue learned laboriously.  "Yes, thank you, thank you."

Pulling out the weapon he checked the load and the sight and turned to Liisha.  "I'll get straight ahead, you get to my right, Linus you take the left."  Once all were ready he moved cautiously forward.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 214):

The Mirayn bowed and backed away, turned and headed back through the fresh-cut to the road.

Moving into the darkness the explorers stumbled through the partially debris-filled passage. Above them, the arched stone was lost in blackness. Liisha flicked her tac-light to either side. To either side there were cracked and missing blocks but no actual entrances or doorways, it seemed like the tower was solid stonework. The only opening was the shaft ahead. Things, small animals and insects, scuttled away in the darkness. It looked like some kind of ancient metal panelling or adornment had covered the walls, now removed to expose the black stone blocks behind.

When they arrived in the middle of the tower, the shaft was indeed open to the sky. Vegetation choked the middle space. To the right of where they were was the bottom of a ramp that climbed around the inside of the shaft to the top. They immediately noticed that there was also recently some kind of covering or panelling on the inside of the shaft, again, recently removed.

"OK," Linus responded, moving to the left.

Once inside, he began clearing the vegetation so that he could move out into the centre of the shaft.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 216):

The middle of the area was choked with vegetation. If there was something there before, it was long gone now, buried under debris or taken away.

There was still the ramp that circled the inside of the shaft, but that went up the sides, not the middle.

In reply to GM (msg # 217):

Walker followed the rest into the tower, keeping an eye on the back-trail.  Once inside, he took a position behind one of the walls, as it provided some cover and concealment.

Ken looked about and then fixated on the area where paneling had been removed.  He went to examine it and test the soundness of the ramp as well.  "There was paneling recently removed.  I wonder if the locals looted it."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 219):

Leaving Blake to deal with the mortally-wounded Arrowdrac, Stanley followed Thomas into the structure.

Thomas had stopped inside, and as there were no interior partitions he stood behind the corner looking back out the entrance passage. Stanley stood nearby and kept watch on the inside area.



Now they were associating with the Mirayns more, their expressions were easier to read. Stanley replied, a little doubtfully, "the swamp tribes revere their Reynarik ancestors. Even if they did remove the coverings, they have no use for them."

"And whoever did it took the paneling recently.  It's possible that Lorain's father's party came through here and did it."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 221):

After some investigation, it was determined that the coverings weren't removed by the primitive swamp tribes. Lorain pointed out where someone had used a laser to cut the bolts that secured the coverings to the stone behind it. Metal had melted and dripped down the wall.

"Not really their style. You can see other places where it looks like a laser was used, as well as more lower-tech tools. Definitely tomb raiders."

Pointing her shotgun, Liisha looked at the ramp up.

"Uh, do we need to head up? I'd really prefer not to!"

Ken peered closely where Lorain pointed.  "Yes, that's a laser for sure.  Let's get pictures of this for the record in case the government nuts try to pin this on us."  He looked up and then back to Lorain.  "Short of going up to have a look around do you want to head to the top of the tower.  I agree with Liisha, it looks far more dangerous than it's worth."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 224):

"It could give us a back trail observation and perhaps some insight on where the expedition went."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 225):

"Do hovercraft leave a back-trail? It's been over a year, I somehow think any trail would be long-gone in the swamp. Could be some other structure visible from the top. Fine. You first, Thomas!" Liisha smiled and leaned against the wall, resting.

Ken looked dubiously at the side of the tower. "I'm not sure it's safe to go up.  Certainly not worth getting killed or injured on."

"I'm game to give it a go," said Linus.

In reply to Liisha Laagir (msg # 226):

"Thomas is going first. Linus is following. I'm fine down here. Anyone else feel like a climb? Neva?"

Liisha took a sip of water from her canteen.

"I think I'll stay down here."

Lorain accepted a drink of water from Drew, who was also staying.

Ken was sure Drew threw him a little smirk.

In reply to Liisha Laagir (msg # 229):

Neva looked at the group and then at the climb.  "I'll go as long as you think you have enough guns here for your protection.  A higher elevation look will be good."

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 231):

"Let's see what we find.  If we find something a little more difficult to traverse, I'm in favor of not taking chances.  It's one thing on a world where we can call and an ambulance drops out of the sky.  It's another where the nearest medical man has a bone sticking through his nose and he shakes a rattle, instead of a Level 1 Trauma Center."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 232):

Neva chuckled at Thomas words.  "Yes it does make a difference.  Come on.  We'll let the others stay here and we can see what we can see.  Hopefully one of them will keep an eye out for the Arrodracs or whatever they were called.  It will be bad enough to climb but to climb and shoot at them would be suicide.  I'm not that desperate."

Thomas, Linus and Neva started up the ramp. Ken could follow as he saw fit.

The wide ramp was the expected fitted stone. However, footing was treacherous due to the amount of debris and obstructions (stones, whole blocks, dead tree branches, tangled vines) that littered the way up. Further, water (Tony has a fantastic ass! He probably shouldn't leave his computer unattended) was flowing down the slope in a steady stream, fed by the almost constant warm rain and drizzle.

Large and small trees were actually growing out of the middle and sides of the ramp, as well as vegetation like moss and clumps of grass. Thick, tangled hardwood roots reached across the ramp and cascaded down, like melted wax turned solid.

GM Note: everyone attempting to climb up must make a DEX check, throw 8+ (DEX 9-10 +1, 11-12 +2) to succeed.

In reply to GM (msg # 234):

Neva followed Thomas and concentrated on her grips.  Perhaps she should have also concentrated on her footing for it wasn't long before she slipped.

ooc:
22:57, Today: Neva Alexovna Morozova rolled 5 using 2d6. dex check for Neva.

Ken shook his head at the mention of climbing.  "I'd rather avoid a fall in this situation."  He met eyes with Drew and shook his head slightly.  "So it seems like we're on the trail of your father's expedition for sure Lorain.  This last discovery seems to prove it.  Do you have any thoughts on what might be at the end of this road?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 236):

Lorain thought for a moment, leaning against the gnarled root of a tree that hung down from above.

"I'd say more swamp. Won't know for sure unless we check it out, but we're getting farther from the Nahahnir basin. Much more further to the southeast and we enter another watershed."

As she talked, she took holographic 3D pictures of the damaged walls, where the coverings had been removed. She also used a scanner that would perform an analysis and perhaps determine more about the composition of the missing materials.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:38, Sun 07 Oct 2012.

Linus started up...

OOC: 11:33, Today: Linus Spruance rolled 4 using 2d6+1. Climbing up the tower.. or not! Ooops...

... the root he'd grabbed onto came away in his hand, just when he was in mid-step. He teetered, scrabbling frantically for purchase...

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 238):

Walker moves slowly up the ramp, [on a nine].  He sees the other two and shakes his head.

"Nope.  OK, this won't work, so Plan B.  Move on."

Ken shook his head.  "It seems like someone has been this way recently, likely your father's part but I would think that they continued further into the Nahahnir basin.  If we don't find anything by the end of the day I say we turn about and see what is along the other length of the road.  Even if it goes underwater we can trace it via the hovercraft."

"Here, would you like some help with the scanner and gathering the data Lorain?"

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 239):

It was rough going up the slippery spiral ramp. Soon, it became clear that with the footing being so treacherous they would either have to proceed very slowly or risk some injury. With both Linus and Neva having minor tumbles within the first 10-20 metres, Thomas decided to call off the climb still only halfway up.

They all returned back down safely. Linus and Neva were pretty soggy, Thomas wasn't too much better off but hadn't rolled down the slope. It was probably all for the best, as the three remaining Arrowdracs seemed to have returned to their nest on top of the tower. Facing three (or more) highly dangerous creatures in close quarters, probably defending their homes and possibly young would be harrowing indeed.

Nearby in the swamp, Stanley helped Blake kill and butcher the fallen Arrowdrac. If nothing else the meat could be given to the friendly villagers back at Adalanayra.

With not much else left to do, everyone retired to the vehicles. They'd spent the better part of an hour at the tower. Lorain wanted to return to the base camp at the village of Adalanayra while it was still light so they'd have to start back soon.


GM Note: Climbing the slippery ramp safely would require time and probably some equipment. It's unlikely you'd die from a fall, but injuries are not out of the question. I'd like to move along, you do have some time to do minor things.

Ken called out to the others.  "Let's saddle back up and head to base camp for the night.  There's not much to be gained by hurting ourselves on the stairs and we can head in the other direction tomorrow."

"All right," said Linus, wiping his hair out of his eyes. He scrambled back down and headed out.

"Wish I knew more about the local plants. Some of them look quite interesting."

Lorain laughed. "You have some in your hair! Shouldn't be hard. You can talk to Talia, she's doing a lot of botanical cataloguing for her research."

Sir Kensing merely smiled at Ken, but didn't push the issue.

They quickly returned to the vehicles where they were parked at the edge of the island where the Stone Road emerged from the swamp water.

The trip back was quicker, as they knew the way. Linus had a fascinating discussion with Talia, who indeed was quite knowledgeable about Mirayn plant life. They swiftly wove around trees and stumps, through swaths of reeds and rushes, scaring away birds and causing other unseen swamplife to go crashing through the brush in escape.

Arriving just before dusk, the friendly villagers were indeed grateful for the meat of the Arrowdrac. It was something of a delicacy, all the more desirable due to the rarity of the meat. This was one prey that usually claimed a hunter or two when it was brought down, if not more.

In reply to GM (msg # 241):

OOC Blake rolled a 4, oops.....

When they got back into camp Neva looked at her clothes.  There was a time when she wouldn't have changed but change was part of what she was trying to accomplish.

"Umm.  I'm going to dry off and change."

With those words she climbs back into the truck where she has been sleeping at nights and changed.  Once she changed she brought her wet clothes out and laid them out to dry.

Ken took Lorain a plate of dinner once the camp had settled down a bit.  "Here you go.  I thought we'd talk while we ate.  I think we've found pretty clear evidence that someone was operating in the area about when your father would have come through.  Tomorrow we should head the other way down the road and see what we find.  It's likely that they may have headed in the other direction.  We can leave this length of road for later expeditions."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 249):

Lorain joined him. Rain pattered down on the awning over the folding table where they sat, light was from a portable lantern.

"I agree. Tomorrow we'll head in the northwest direction. If nothing else, we can cross that arm of the lake very rapidly. Guess we'll be going bright and early!"

Ken pulled out a chair for her and sat down on a camp stool as he balanced his tray of food on his lap.  "I have a feeling we'll need all the daylight we can get tomorrow to follow the trail of the road.  It's a pretty amazing feat of engineering given that it was built at what looks like TL-3."

"Eat up, we'll all need our strength." He applied himself for a while;  "Do you always want to be in archeology, to follow your father's path?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 251):

Lorain looked both amused by the question and implication. "Please, I hope you don't think I'm doing this because I'm "daddy's little girl"!

"I did get my interest from him. My father was nothing if not infectious about his opinions and passions. But there are limits to that, his lack of evidence and quarrels with the rest of the department and faculty led to his dismissal from the Institute. I'm trying to be more professional about it, leave my conclusions until I examine the proof.

"Unfortunately, as much as the Stone Road is an amazing achievement for a low technological level, it doesn't look very good for his theory. Too primitive to be the product of advanced civilisation, not likely to be the product of a post-Reynarik culture, but still dating before the post-climate change period."

Ken shook his head. "No, I've read your parts of the 'Sky Raiders' book.  It's apparent that you stand on your own intellectually.  I don't think you are anyone's 'little girl' in the sense of not being independent."

"But there is nothing wrong with following in your father's profession.  My father was a marine as well." He frowns; "The road and the tower would say rather that the lower tech civilization was truly widespread and crowds out the idea of the Sky Raiders being based here in any large scale."

"I must say I'm enjoying this expedition.  The sense of adventure and discovery is new to me.  I can see why you and your father love this work."  Ken smiled; "As well, the company is without peer."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 253):

Leaving aside the metaphorical issues with following (or not) one's parents' career, Lorain smiled wryly and replied, "well, I hope we are all following my father's footsteps close enough, literally! Either that or we'll never find him."

She piled up her dishes with the others for the Mirayn cook to clean up.

003-1108

The expedition had an early night that evening. The stress of fighting the Arrowdracs was telling, as well as trouping the jungle, and most of the party was beat. A guard was set, and all too soon it was morning, just before dawn.

Everyone stumbled out into the darkness, used to the constant drip of a light yet warm range. After a camp breakfast they got ready to depart, loading up the GEVs.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:30, Tue 25 Dec 2012.

Ken helped pack up the camp and grinned at Lorain as they mounted up.  "With luck we'll find your father before the end of the day."  He took the scout GEV position again.

Linus was up bright and early, and helped to make breakfast. He helped pack up, then jumped into the scout GEV, looking forward to another day's exploring.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 257):

Ross dumped a pack with some food and a water jug in the scout craft's cargo bin.

"Okay, that's me and you in the scout hover. Anyone else? She seats three!"

He mounted up, laying his SMG on the floor.

In reply to Ross Carnam (msg # 258):

Neva looked over at Ross and shook her head.  "I'm comfortable in the cargo GEV.  My things are already in there so I think I'll stay in that."

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 259):

"Fine, it's Ken and Linus with me, let's go!"

He started the fusion-electric motor and the vanes roared to life. The small agile craft shot out into the river, heading for the lake. Today, they would be going on a reverse northwest bearing along the Stone Road, across the closest arm of the lake.

Liisha decided on the passenger GEV, opting for air conditioned comfort. She kept her loaded rifle and SMG handy, but otherwise lay back and started to snooze. The trip would take a couple hours.

Ken piled into the scout GEV.

Blake looked around and packed his gear.  Never liking the fact that the sun has no dimmer.  A issue a scout never has in deep space.  

"I really hate mornings..." stating to no one.  Looking around for his ride and jumping in.  He pulls his revolver out and places it on the seat.

"We ready..?". Looking around

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 263):

Blake was in the air-conditioned passenger GEV, which was a thankful blessing. No one sat next to him, considering the revolver lying on the seat. But, he was was part of the expedition security so they made allowances for him!

Behind him, Lorain was talking with Talia, going over some notes on the computer. Sir Kensing was nursing his own hang-over. His high-powered rifle was propped on the seat beside him as he dozed.

After an hour and a half, they reached the lake.

This time they went straight out, heading for the headland that was opposite where the Stone Road ran. To their right was high ground, rugged jungle hills.

After about another hour and a half, they reached the northern shore and began following that along the forested lake edge. After a half hour of travel along the northern bank, they came to a peninsula jutting out into the water.

There was a jumbled ruin of massive stone buildings rising from the lake waters, disappearing into the jungle. It was the same massive carved basalt stone blocks, perhaps early TL3 or late TL2. There was also a massive stone wall that seemed to cut the tip of the peninsula off from the high ground to the north. The buildings were covered in vines and trees and various overgrowth. It was easy to see that if any aircraft made it up the Nahahnir river this far (a rare occurrence) the ruins, though massive, would be easy to miss unless you were on the water.

Ken pointed out the ruins from the Scout GEV in the front as they came into sight through the jungle.  "We've hit the jack pot!  It looks like a full on city here. Let's bring the craft in where it's clear, set up a security perimeter and see if we can find any signs that Lorain's father has been here."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 265):

Neva was watching out as they made their progress.  When the buildings came into view she looked up at Thomas.  "You see those?  Betcha the others are already jumping up and down at the chance to get out and stretch their legs exploring those."

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 266):

Thomas nods as he's pulling his binoculars out.

"Yup.  Let's lay some eyes on these walls, and see what we can find."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 267):

Neva gets out her binoculars and helped Thomas look out for anything that cause them problems or the unusual.  She smiled for this was something that she was used to and it felt good to get back to it.

She noticed which areas Thomas seemed to be covering and looked in another area so that they could cover the most area between the two of them.

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 268):

They found a half-submerged plaza with a broad avenue leading out into the middle of the ruins. There they beached the vehicles. The expedition security (the Mirayn guards/guides/porters) formed a perimeter as everyone disembarked and started to get organised.

The plaza was once huge, hundreds of metres a side, but now it was more like a cleared area in the forest on the lake edge with low vegetation with a few trees. Various mounds marked where fountains or statues might lay under a metre of soil and vegetation buildup. Several squared-off blocks broke the surface. Several trenches had been dug, some carefully and others haphazardly, criss-crossing the open area. Some trenches looked recent, others years or decades old.

Visual examination of the area didn't reveal any waiting ambushers or large wildlife, although the lakeshore hummed with insects and several birds were disturbed as they landed and tromped around.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:58, Mon 22 Oct 2012.

In reply to GM (msg # 269):

Looking around, Lorain said, "we'll set up a day camp here. If need be we can camp for the night or return to Adlanayra.

"I want to have a look further into the city. See what we're dealing with here."

She moved over to examine one of the half-filled trenches, taking pictures.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:05, Mon 22 Oct 2012.

In reply to Lorain Messandi (msg # 270):

Taking a swig from his flask, Sir Kensing replied, "that sounds great, let's go!" He unslung his rifle and then chambered a round.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 265):

Exiting the passenger vehicle, Liisha slung her Uzi SMG, picked up her rifle. Chambering a round she looked at Ken while the expedition security secured a perimeter.

"Well, Ken? Want to go while the others are setting up camp? Neva, Thomas, Blake, you guys up for a walk into the city?"

She didn't have a hat so the light rain dripped down her face.

In reply to Lorain Messandi (msg # 270):

"Whenever you are ready I will accompany you.  The more eyes the better."

Neva went to gather up what she thought she'd need and waited for the move out.

In reply to Lorain Messandi (msg # 270):

After disembarking, Stanley grabbed a second Mirayn porter/guard, armed with a carbine. They climbed up the nearest mound (rather small, about 1-story high) to set up a watch post. Stanley set up his autorifle to cover the land side of the landing area.

In reply to Stanley (msg # 274):

Grabbing his own autorifle, Juan set it up on the ground, coordinating with Stanley.

"Looks like this area's secure enough."

He directed the expedition crew to start unloading some basic supplies and instruments, but not everything. "We can be ready to go in ten minutes, less if we just throw everything back in the hovercraft."

Ken nodded to Liisha and Neva; "Sure, let's walk over that way." He points to the ruins past where Lorain is working.  "Let's see if Lorain wants to head further in as well." He looked at Liisha and then offered her his hat.  "Here, you look damn wet without a hat."

He moved on with the others toward the trenches.  "What do you think Lorain?  Are the trenches signs of your father?  Some of them look fairly new."

Linus scrambled out and looked around curiously.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 276):

Looking around, Lorain scowled at the scars in the dirt before her.

"I hope this isn't dad's work. These trenches were dug by grave-robbers, tomb-raiders. Treasure hunters. People looking to find artefacts. A professional archaeological dig would be more methodical to establish a broad context, marked and gridded and then filled in after or covered to protect the substrata.

"These excavations seem targeted, especially the later ones. All the structures around here seem collapsed, with vertical or horizontal shafts dug into the mounds. This suggests instrumentation like ground-penetrating radar, thermal, advanced synthetic-aperture sensors. Professional gear."

Sighing in frustration, she slung her own sensing devices and prepared to follow Ken, Linus, Neva and Liisha.

In reply to Lorain Messandi (msg # 278):

Looking grim yet a little excited, Sir Kensing exclaimed, "I hope these vandals are still around! I'd give them what-for."

Ken nodded and readied his weapons just in case.  He studied the pattern of the excavations.  "I see what you mean Lorain, they were going after the grander looking buildings.  Let's head up this main avenue and see what we find.  I don't see any signs of camp fires or anything and even the diggings aren't terribly recent.  I doubt if anyone other than locals are left around here."  He headed up the avenue with the others.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 280):

The group (Ken, Liisha, Neva, Linus, Thomas and Blake, plus Lorain and Drew) made their way down a wide space between the hills that could have been an avenue between long-collapsed buildings. The space between the hills was filled with vegetation and they needed to hack their way through in spots with machetes where they couldn't find a game trail or stream bed.

Eventually, they made their way towards the centre of the ancient city. They reached the edge of what must have been an immense plaza, now it was a clearing in the middle of lows hills in the jungle. Ken peered out from the treeline and knew something was wrong. In the middle of the clearing was an immense excavation, with modern equipment, even small buildings. There were even some vehicles there, a couple small grav-powered earthmovers and backhoes, with some larger tracked power shovels.

The dig seemed deserted, but not for very long. Days, at most, and most equipment seemed in order and not simply abandoned.

In reply to GM (msg # 281):

Walker looked around for sign, and to see if he can find out which direction the sophonts that had brought this equipment here, went.

"They haven't been gone long.  Everybody keep a sharp eye out, we don't want to be surprised.  They weren't supposed to be here, doing this, and there's enough money involved with bringing this stuff here that I suspect they'll take a dim view of us finding them."

"Ken, would you please set a perimeter, and then find us something we can retreat to?"

Walker's rifle is out and ready, and he's walking very quietly, trying not to disturb the tracks on the ground.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 282):

Neva, still smarting from not being as prepared as she thought she should have been the last time, took time to make sure that her rifle was ready in case they needed it.  She walked as quietly as she could while still looking out for trouble.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 282):

Blake, checks his carbine and revolver and takes Thomas' advice and starts off to form a perimeter and see what else can been seen.

Ken looked about with amazement that quickly turned to concern.  "Everybody down, this can't be good."  He quickly used his tactical experience (tactics-1) to examine the possible lines of retreat as well as look about for defensive positions. "This is too big for just the eight of us to set a perimeter Thomas but I can set an over watch position and try to warn of anyone approaching."

He called back to Kelso.  "Juan, we've found a big dig, a big operation with off world equipment that is only temporarily idle.  No one is in sight and we are going to investigate.  Get the vehicles under cover and prepare to get out of here in a moment's notice.  Step up your guard as well."

Ken called out to Lorain in a low voice. "We may have found your father's whereabouts or perhaps someone who might know of him Lorain."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 285):

Walker pulled back to where the rest of the group was.

"There's an awful lot of foot prints through here."

Ken shook his head.  "I'd expect they have a crew of a dozen or more to run all that gear.  Can you tell anything from the tracks Thomas?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 287):

While Ken and Thomas talked about the tracks, Neva took up a watch position around them.  Perhaps she was being a bit paranoid but then she was still alive so a little paranoia was healthy in her opinion.

Ken kept his eyes open as they continued to speak.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 289):

"OK, we have a choice.  We can stand here and wait for the bad guys to show up, or we can didi mau out of here and come up with another plan.  I'd say we could call the authorities, but an operation this big is probably operating under the wing of someone powerful."

"I say we conceal our craft and keep the area under surveillance.  There are plenty of places to hide and it would be good to know who they are.  Could you tell where they came from or went off too?"

"There might be some indication of who these folks are in one of the sheds," said Linus, heading in that direction.

As he finished talking, Thomas started to check the tracks. He figured there were a couple dozen workers, all human. No Mirayns. The lake was to the west, the footprints headed north.

"Understood," replied Juan over the radio, "I will get everyone ready to move immediately."

One plastic-sided shed held tools, the other a fusion-electric generator. A third, now empty, had metal shelves obviously used to clean and sort artefacts. Linus then spotted what looked like a trailer of some sort. Could be an office and artefact storage.

Finding some cover, Blake covered their back trail to the west. Liisha covered the south, leaving Neva to cover east and Ken the north, with Thomas. The trenches gave good all-around hard cover, the excavators provided good hard cover but only from one direction.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:31, Tue 30 Oct 2012.

Linus headed over to the trailer...

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 291):

"I've been working on that.  Give me a couple minutes more."

OOC:  09:04, Today: Thomas Walker rolled 10 using 2d6+3. Deciphering Tracks.

"We'll cover the approaches, see what you can find Linus.  Just be wary of traps."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 295):

It seemed the tracks led north. Some were very recent, a few hours at most.

The door to the office trailer was locked when Linus tried it.

Thomas was the first to notice that all the insects and birds went quiet. He only had a few seconds to process this when the air was filled with the electric hum of air/rafts. Sure enough, two grav transports in civil colours came into view above the trees, swooping in from the east, just over the treetops. They had open side doors, and autorifles on flex-mounts peeked out of the openings.

Is there a window that Linus can peer into?

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 298):

The metal trailer had several insect-screened windows, all closed.

Linus roots around, seeing if he can peer into any of the windows.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 296):

Lorain replied to Ken, "maybe, maybe not. I hope my father doesn't have anything to do with whoever's behind this, and was smart enough to stay away!"

When the air/rafts appeared, she looked at Ken, then back at the aircraft angling in. "Are those guns? I think we should get out of here!"

In reply to Lorain Messandi (msg # 301):

Kensing brought his rifle up, sighted in the pilot of the rightmost craft. "These chaps look damn serious!"

In reply to GM (msg # 297):

"Crap."

"Company!"  Walker starts looking for access to a high spot.  Then he changed his mind and headed for the jungle, not far from where he was standing.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:36, Wed 31 Oct 2012.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 303):

Neva moved back into the foliage and motioned for the others to take cover as well.  "Find cover and move back."  She would have tried to take cover up high but she wasn't the best at climbing, as she found out the last time, so she decided to move back and stay on the ground instead.  At least this time her weapon was already out and ready in case they decided to fire first.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 303):

There was high ground all around them in the form of enormous mounds (the remains of long-gone buildings) ringing the open area, about 100m away. The tallest (@25m) was probably back the way they came, to the east. The easiest to climb (@12m) was in the west.

Over the whine of the air/rafts now almost overhead as they came in from the east at treetop level (although not actually flying nape of Earth), Ken head movement approaching on foot down the trail to the north.

Ken called out on the radio.  "Linus, we have company.  Air rafts and movement to the north.  Get the hell out of there, stay low.  Duck under the trailer if you can't get out without getting seen!"

He watched the others dive for cover in the brush. "Lorain, get back into cover and work your way back to the air rafts.  I'll cover our retreat." He stayed in the cover of the outer trenches knowing that they would provide good all around cover and allow him to stay relatively close.

"What?"

Linus looked round wildly, having been too absorbed in what he was doing to notice advancing air/rafts until now.

"Get under the trailer if you have to Linus, hide!"

"What? All right, we'll try! Come on, Drew!"

She got down in the trenches, trying to use them as cover as she made her way east.

In reply to Lorain Messandi (msg # 309):

Drew considered taking a shot at the air/rafts but decided that discretion was the better part of valour. "Let me lead, Lorain!" Eschewing the cover of the trenches, he sprinted towards the eastern edge of the open area.