166-1108

Alzenei System
1934 Jungleblut subsector, Far Frontiers sector.


The ship powered through Jumpspace in a week's time. Every wormhole tunnelling through Jumpspace collapsed in around the same amount of time, merely the distance changed due to the efficiency and power of the engines.

Ship's sensors recorded normal in-system traffic. The newly created and expanded League of Suns Interstellar Navy (formerly the Scout service's armed patrol and enforcement branch) were practicing squadron manoeuvres around the moon, and the Empress Victoria was requested to land at the customs base for inspection.

Blake & Marial make it so.  Nothing to declare could be interesting, but with a war going on ...  The usual pre-boarding paperwork exercise.

Anything special about this moon ??  Blake uses his eyes, not the sensors.

Neva had held her breath when they were coming out of jump.  She found herself extra jumpy now that she was a little more aware of what the engine sounds were "suppose" to sound like and training as an engineer.  She let it out when they exited space and the ship was still in one piece.  She actually "giggled" a little bit and had a smile on her face.  She quickly let it out though when she realized that she had giggled.

Neva patted the ships wall and muttered low "good girl".

Linus does his usual pre-inspection baking and delicious aromas are soon drifting through the ship. Whilst the cakes are in the oven he turns to the computer and makes sure everything is in order there.

Ken sighs in relief as the ship comes out of Jump.  He immediately gets on the comm and sends a short message to Lorain.  "Mission successful, will meet you at Institute."  He keeps the note short in case it is intercepted along the way.  He has no real reason for paranoia although the military maneuvers might be influencing him.

Turning back from the comm panel he smiles at Blake and Marial.  "Good work you two, another good trip.  Take her in for inspection and then down to the planet.  We'll want to meet with Lorain as soon as possible."  His smile widened as he recalled their parting just a few weeks ago.

The moon was nothing special, just an airless ball of rock (B200666-C) with some mining colonies, industrial facilities and defensive installations. As they'd done before, they were instructed to maintain a parking orbit as a customs and revenue cutter lifted off from a base to intercept them.

Lorrain replied via radio, "that's great news! Can you send a telefax of the item? I'm about to attend a meeting of the board and it would be great to have an advance preview."

The ship's computer was functioning normally and the HVAC/LS system filled the ship with delicious smells. Still, the customs inspection crew did not seem impressed (the lack of cargo and passengers perhaps suggesting other less licit reasons for this trip) and directed them to land on the moon for a detailed inspection.

I don't like this ...  Captain, would you want to hang your treasure on the wall ??  If they're going to be snooping about, maybe out in the open is a better place for it.

Privately, should have taken the time to do some surveys ...

Maybe we better alter that message to the prof, you know, found this example of Vilani poetry ...  Nada to bring back for the University ...  Yadda yadda yadda.

Ken responds to the call from Lorain.  "We'll get you a telefax right away.  I'm going to blur some of the writing just in case we have anyone snooping on our lines.  We know that our friend from Myryan has a lot of resources and may still be interested in what you are doing.  I'll bring the item right over as soon as we land.  Maybe we can find some time for dinner and talk about your latest work."

After the call is over, Ken takes photos front and back of the item.  One set is clear and the other has some of the writing blurred out.  He saves both sets of pictures and then telefaxes the other set to Lorain.

As the inspection takes longer Ken maintains his attitude.  "Take her in for the inspection.  I'll hang the damn thing up in plain view in the common area."  He does so and then notifies Lorain that they have been delayed by customs.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 9):

"The telefax data packet is encrypted, no one without the key can decode it.

"There's no need to bring it by tonight, looks like I'm going to be in meetings until late. How about we do dinner tomorrow in Alzenei City? I'll treat the crew, you can bring it then."

Ken considered the information and then sent the fully detailed image.  "Good thinking on encrypting things Lorain.  I should rely on your good sense more."  He glanced over at anyone nearby in the lounge and gave a thumbs up.  "It would be nice to get the crew together with you for old times as well as new.  I'm sure everyone would like to hear what you've learned so far and how we might help.  I think we all feel a sense of ownership now with this Sky Raiders mystery."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 11):

"As well you should, if it weren't for you my father's work would be unfinished. Not to mention he'd still be in Kalamanaru's clutches. As would I, in all likelihood!

"Ok, the image is coming through. Yes! This is fantastic! All we have to do is authenticate this piece. Hmmm... looks a little shabby. Well, it's probably nothing.

"Npw, I gotta go to the trustees meeting now. It's great you got this to me, and thanks to your crew for retrieving it. See you tomorrow!"

Lorrain sounded very excited as she cut the connection.

Another inspection ...  Blake gets the printouts to drag along for someone to eye-ball over, while warm aromas come thru the air vents.  Could depend on what our illustrious engineer's mood is these days ...  Come to think of it, he's been rather quiet this trip.  No clangs or bangs at odd hours of the day, no complaints about something approaching a red line or end of a lifespan.  Oh my god he thinks, Neva has sedated him ...

"We'll keep the artifact safe and get it over to you tomorrow.  Keep safe Lorain.  We're glad to be of service and hope we can do more."  He sighs as the connection closes and sits back and thinks.  The sooner they got back to the Institute and passed the artifact over to Lorain the better.  As well he found himself surprisingly happy to see her again.  Hopefully she would feel the same way.

Standing he set the artifact on the wall and turned to deal with the inspectors.

"This is great. Thanks!"

Lorrain signed off, clearly excited but with her mind miles away, focused on the upcoming fight for a larger budget and the grants that more research on the Sky Raiders could pull in.

The customs inspectors couldn't find anything. They didn't like Ollie glowering at them, and Stanley certainly got a sideways glance, but finally they gave up and allowed the Victoria to lift off from the moon. As they gained altitude above the grey lunar regolith, they saw a modular cutter that had landed near a comm relay station, probably to perform some maintenance:




Landing at the Alz Atse Starport, the crew embarked on the lengthy process of drive maintenance. If they worked hard they could be ready to go by the time they were due to meet Lorrain downtown.

Linus kept the engineers fuelled with coffee and snacks.

"I'd offer to help but there's probably not much that I can do that's useful!"

Whoever was not piloting might give that cutter a look-see.  Pilots always like to know about other craft in the area.

Blake will spend time helping with any overhaul work.  He gives Linus a pat on the back, chow duty or a rag to wipe clean yet another piece of the mechanical plumbing ...  He shrugs his eyes ...  grins as the next song comes thru his earpiece & inspects  his present 'masterpiece' before moving on to the next one.  He nods to Neva that another item is ready.

Ken shepherded the customs inspectors about trying to keep both them and his crew out of trouble.  When they finally left he heaved a sigh of relief.  "Good, at least they didn't trump up some finding to delay or fine us."  He spent the short flight down to Alz Atse Starport thinking about the upcoming meeting with Lorain and what further work it might bring.  Of course part of him couldn't help but look forward to seeing her for his own reasons.

He announced over the comm to the crew.  "We're meeting Lorain in a few hours to have some dinner and pass over the artifact.  Everyone is invited if you'd like to come along."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 18):

Stanley had been helping the best he could. But he was a lawyer, not an Engineer!

"I'd like to come. Are we going to take the air raft or use the monorail?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 18):

"I guess I'll stay and look after the ship, get some more work done."

He sighed and sipped some tea, thinking about the repair checklist.

"Mariel and I have a date. We're probably going to stay in town tonight, if anyone is interested in where we are. You can contact me via phone or comm."

Blake will tag along for the information & then leave to catch up on the latest scout scuttlebutt at the Downtime Cafe.  War news, tall tales, improbable escapades, etc but skips out on the drinking contests.  Some rest & back to the ship for engine work ...

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 17):

Neva smiles at Linus.  "Keeping us fueled helps to keep the ship all fueled in top condition.  Thanks."

Neva then checks the list and marks what she has finished.  "We're actually making good time which, if it is like anything else, means something is going to go wrong."

Neva starts to hum and dances a little bit as she moves to go to her next station to check it out.

"While on Alzenei we do as the Alzenei do; we take the monorail."  Ken says this with a laugh.  "Especially as we'll ride in front.  I got special tickets to celebrate." He wrapped the artifact and put it carefully in a small pack.  Anyone would noticed that he had gone to the trouble to shave and dress up fairly nicely.

"Ok then, everyone not coming along to dinner keep your comms on in case anything comes up.  We may need to leave quickly.  We'll look for cargoes and passengers once we have an idea if Lorain wants us to go anywhere else or we will be on our own again."  He headed for the hatch;  "All ashore that's going ashore... time to meet Lorain."

Linus turned up to join the shore party, leaving a 'gannet table' of cold meats, salad and bread for anyone remaining aboard.

During the day, Ken arrangements to meet with Lorrain after work to deliver the artifact. She suggested a restaurant they'd patronised before, "The Queen's Republic", in the nightclub district downtown.

In reply to GM (msg # 26):

Sealing the artefact in a case, Stanley also slid both swords into scabbards at his waist, then put on a long coat.

"It's not that hot out, in fact, for me it's downright chilly! The item should be safe with me. Let's go to the monorail station."

In reply to GM (msg # 26):

"You want company?"

Ken glanced over at Thomas and nodded.  "Come along Thomas.  Lorain invited everyone that wanted to head out.  The place we are meeting is pretty nice, called "The Queen's Republic". He straightened his collar and headed toward the air lock.  "Come on then if you want, we are headed out now."

He met whoever else wanted to head out at the air lock.  "Everyone set?  You have the artifact Stanley?  Good... let's go."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 29):

"Am glad to have you along.

"Neva, are you coming?"

In reply to Stanley (msg # 30):

Neva shook her head.  "Perhaps next trip.  I want to check on something for maintenance.  Don't worry about me."

Ken frowned.  "We'll miss you then Neva.  Keep the ship locked up though if you stay.  I'm not expecting any trouble but you never, ever know."

He headed down with the others to the monorail station.

With about 45 minutes to spare, Ken, Stanley, Linus, Blake and Thomas boarded the monorail from ALz Atse Down to Alzenei City. The monorail train was made up six independently-powered cars joined together to allow easy access between them. They chose to sit near the rear of the train, in a group of seats next to 2 exits facing each other across an aisle.

Most of the time the weather on Alzenei was mild, and the early evening was no exception. It was clear with blue skies and 17C degrees. The monorail took them above various outlying suburban and light industrial disctricts, past the Scout Base. Soon, it entered Alzenei City at the "Startown" of ALztop, threading in between skyscraper apartment blocks. Startowns like Alztop were usually either the part of the largest urban area closest to the starport or its own discrete town or city. Such urban areas catered to the legitimate and often illegitimate businesses and affairs of the starport, providing services such as low-cost transient housing, warehousing, parts and supplies, duty-free shops, brothels and red light districts (on the more permissible worlds). The buildings in Alztop were somehow a little more worn and utilitarian compared to the typical gleaming structures that adorned the rich world of Alzenei, the parks just as abundant but a little shabbier, concrete walkways and momorail supports a little stained.

At the first stop in Alztop, many people flooded into the monorail car the were travelling.

GM Note: Everyone make a check, throw 8+ with Streetwise as a modifier. +1 f INT 9+.

Include rolls with your next posts.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:24, Wed 15 Jan 2014.

Sitting nearest to the door, Linus was idly gazing out and enjoying the sights of the planet on a pleasant day.

(OOC: 13:32, Today: Linus Spruance rolled 6 using 2d6 with rolls of 1,5. Roll requested.)

In reply to GM (msg # 33):

Walker stood on the monorail, as they waited for their stop, one hand on the rail on an overhead hanger, the other by his side.  His field coat is clean, with no ammo, but his usual survival equipment in the pockets.  The usual pull-tab extender has been replaced with a bit of leather, and the usual smell of wood smoke and fresh air is gone.  He's freshly shaved, and showered.


[OOC:  10:15, Today: Thomas Walker rolled 4 using 2d6 with rolls of 3,1. I can't remember the sequence to read a UPP.]

Like Linus, Blake watches the world scroll by, soaking in the scenery dispassionately. He idly watches the entering masses, triggering memories of IISS liberties gone by ...

  13:46, Today: Blake Renfield rolled 12 using 2d6 with rolls of 6,6. Blake, Int A.

Ken is dressed in a nice set of slacks and a short with a short, open jacket.  He is clean shaven and more than normally presentable.  Sitting near the window he glances at their fellow passengers and then out at the cityscape while he thinks on the meeting with Lorain.

20:47, Today: Ken Jenkins rolled 5 using 2d6 with rolls of 3,2. Check.

Due to the presence of a large 4-armed alien, the people of Alztop seemed to be giving the crew a wide berth.

However, at the next stop, by an industrial park, a half-dozen men entered the car via the door nearest to them. One sat down, the rest remained standing. They didn't talk and avoided looking at the crew as if they were beneath them.  With a hiss the doors closed and they pulled away from the station.

Ken glanced over at the men as they entered and then turned back to looking out the windows as the magnificent city.

"Good day," said Linus politely to the one who'd sat down beside him.

The young tough ignored Linus, looking away.

Something caught Ken and the others' eyes. The half-dozen young men sitting near them weren't just fellow travellers enjoying Alzenei's fast and efficient public transportation system, there was something suspicious about them.

A couple transit employees walked through the car towards them, checking for fares. They came up behind the gang of young men, and they turned to watch them. The group's leader leaned over and began whispering to an underling.

The man next to Linus turned with the rest to look at the transit people that had come up behind the group. His shirt rode up and the dagger he was hiding in his belt slid out and onto the aisle behind him. The young man didn't immediately notice but he knew something was amiss enough to put his hand back to check if his weapon was secure in his belt. As the rest of the gang was oriented behind them, they didn't notice, either.

Both the crew and the female of the transit people noticed, however. Her eyes widened in shock.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:11, Tue 28 Jan 2014.

Linus reached out and siezed the wrist of the hand that was checking for the now-absent dagger.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 42):

Walker stepped to the side to give the others room to manuver.

He frowned at the sight of the knife.

If Blake is close enough, he would kick the dagger aside.  Anybody else packing some metal ?? he asks looking the next troublemaker straight in the eye ... taking a boxing stance.  He wants any nearby passengers room to back off.  It always shows in the eyes first, if this one looks likely to do something, the old JoT right & left punches fly ...

Seeing the whispers and the sign of the dagger, Ken rises swiftly and moves confidently into combat with the nearest thug.  He slips into a trained close combat stance and lashes out at the nearest gang member.

20:08, Today: Ken Jenkins rolled 9 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 1,6. Brawling.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:09, Wed 29 Jan 2014.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 45):

Walker picks another thug and follows Ken into the fray.

11:53, Wed 29 Jan 2014: Thomas Walker rolled 7 using 2d6 ((6,1)). No brawling/fighting skill.

Blake leads with the old IISS right / left combo ...

20:45, Today: Blake Renfield rolled 6 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 2,3. Blake - left punch.

20:45, Today: Blake Renfield rolled 8 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 4,3. Blake - right
pun

Lets hold the knives for a moment or two ...  No need to escalate matters.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 45):

Instinctively, Stanley followed suit. As well, he decided against drawing his sword before the gang had even made a move, even if it was obvious they were up to no good.

Linus was able to grab the arm of the man sitting next tohim, leaving him very surprised! Their leader shouted, "what are you waiting for, get 'em!" but even so, his men were sluggish in reacting.

Ken's trained reflexes came into play and he jabbed a fist in the solar plexus of one man, knocking the wind out of him but not putting him down. both Blake's punches missed. But Thomas connected with the jaw of one of the gang members and he was thrown back to lie unconscious. Stanley grabbed another and rammed his head into the window, and the man collapsed onto the floor, stunned.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:30, Fri 31 Jan 2014.

Following his attack, Ken stepped in close and attempted to pummel his opponent.

17:53, Today: Ken Jenkins rolled 9 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 6,1. Brawling.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 50):

Walker turned and went after a nearby opponent.

21:31, Sat 01 Feb 2014: Thomas Walker rolled 4 using 2d6 ((2,2)).

Blake steps forward, evading, boxer's defensive stance ...

"Just stay put, neighbour," said Linus to the man he was holding.

There were only 3 of 6 opponents left standing. Moving in close, Stanley grabbed the last one (not being attacked by Thomas, Ken or Linus) and pounded him.

20:16, Today: GM, on behalf of Stanley, rolled 11 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 5,3.

In reply to Stanley (msg # 54):

The thug that Linus had grabbed hold of proved he not only had another hand, but he had another knife! Reaching into his vest he pulled a second dagger from an inside pocket. Twisting in his seat, he managed to slash Linus along the ribcage. Linus take 6 HP of damage to his STR. The knife went into his flesh, carving a line of fire along his ribcage but not enough to cause truly significant damage.

Although he'd connected, Ken's target still wasn't hurt enough to go down. Shaking off his surprise, he finally retaliated by pulling out a small club (a sap) and swinging it at Ken's head. The club narrowly missed Ken's head, "whooshing" by. Thomas's strike missed, cleanly. Blake held his attack as the fight surged back-and-forth.

Two went after Stanley. The first drew his knife and stabbed him through his leather Jack, drawing blood. The other bounced a small club off his thick hide.

OK, please post new combat actions.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:14, Thu 06 Feb 2014.

Ken ducked the swing of the sap and stepped inside of the swing of the primitive but effective weapon.  Moving quickly he attempted to pummel the man while in close quarters.

Move in close and attack again

22:49, Today: Ken Jenkins rolled 7 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 1,4. Brawling. Edit: +2 more to hit for close range for a total of 9 to hit.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:51, Wed 05 Feb 2014.

Yelping, Linus attempted to punch the thug in the face!

OOC: 16:54, Today: Linus Spruance rolled 12 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 6,4. Belting this thug.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 57):

Thomas throws another punch at the guy he was dealing with.

OOC:  12:13, Wed 05 Feb 2014: Thomas Walker rolled 6 using 2d6 ((1,5)).

Boxing stance with a right throw ...

17:43, Today: Blake Renfield rolled 8 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 3,4. Blake  punch +1 JoT.

Of six gangsters, two were down. Two were fighting Stanley, one was grappling with Linus and one was in the middle aisle, blocking the others from helping Stanley.

Two thugs concentrated on Stanley, one slashing at him as the other tried to wrest the case with the artefact free. Stanley resisted, drawing his sword and stabbing one man in the side, but it missed and his target still kept trying to wrest the case from him.

The one on Linus stabbed him again, the blade leaving a line of fire down his arm! His fist connected on the man's jaw and his head rocked back, but it wasn't enough to put him down. Ken socked the man trying to keep them from helping Stanley but the man kept fighting. Thomas and Blake struck at him as well, but they missed.

In reply to GM (msg # 60):

Walker, seeing that Stanley was in trouble, and the object that they'd gone searching for was at risk, changed his mind and attacked the man attacking Stanley.

21:17, Sun 09 Feb 2014: Thomas Walker rolled 7 using 2d6 ((3,4)).

Blake goes for the guy trying to steal the case.  Grab & tackle, hopefully with him on the bottom ...

07:40, Today: Blake Renfield rolled 6 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,4. Blake - body tackle.

Linus goes for a punch to the midsection. Somewhere in the back of his mind a voice reminds him that he never was any good at brawling!

OOC: 17:44, Today: Linus Spruance rolled 11 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 3,6. Thumping this rotter again.

Seeing the case at risk Ken redoubled his efforts to get through the man blocking their access to help Stanley.

18:24, Today: Ken Jenkins rolled 13 using 2d6+4 with rolls of 5,4. Brawling.

Linus was left to deal with the guy knifing him to death, and although his blow landed it did minimal damage. Fortunately, the knifeman was unable to connect.

There was a guy trying to keep Ken, Linus and Thomas from interfering with his mate who was assaulting Stanley, but he was unable to prevent them from doing so. He did manage to whack Blake in the side of the head with his club, ringing his bell and negating his planned tackle, but not putting Blake down.  Ken hit that man, and he collapsed, dropping his club.

Thomas grabbed one of the men on Stanley and pulled him off, bounding him off a steel pole. The man retaliated, stabbing Thomas and Thomas collapsed. The second guy on Stanley slashed at him, cutting him along a forearm, and Stanley stabbed at him with his sword. The man grabbed his stomach and fell backwards, screaming in pain.

There were 2 gang members remaining, one locked in combat with Linus and the last guy on Stanley.

Seeing Stanley well armed with his sword to deal with the gang member on him he turned and moved into close combat with the man stabbing at Linus.  Hopefully gaining some advantage by double teaming him.


19:28, Today: Ken Jenkins rolled 9 using 2d6+4 with rolls of 3,2. Brawling.

Linus drew back his fist and aimed a blow at his assailant's throat!

OOC: 12:16, Today: Linus Spruance rolled 13 using 2d6+2 with rolls of 5,6. Belting the mad knifeman again..

To Thomas, no real first aid skills, but bleeding is bleeding ...

Thomas seemed to still be breathing, and was in danger of going into shock. Blake noted he was actually still barely conscious, if unable to function.

The knifeman bellowed, "ah! you FUCKER!" and switched his attack to Ken. Ken easily blocked his attack. Linus and Ken both got in several hits but this was a pretty big man, he didn't go down. Stanley stumbled, then slashed his attacker. The man tried to club Stanley and failed miserably.

Seeing Thomas down and out from the knife attack brought Ken to a cold boil.  Taking advantage of the two to one odds against the knife man, Ken laid into him with a flurry of blows.

11:56, Today: Ken Jenkins rolled 15 using 2d6+4 with rolls of 6,5. Brawling.

Stop the bleeding & keep him warm.  Blake is too busy to think about his own wounds ...

The man with the knife that Linus was grappling with collapsed under Ken's assault. The last gang member turned and fled down the train car. Stanley sat down in a seat. He put his hand under his coat, it came away bloody. He then slumped sideways. On the floor, Blake tried to keep Thomas warm so he didn't go into shock.

It seemed the attack was over, unless they wanted to pursue the last attacker. Not a minute too soon, the monorail was approaching the next station.

"I think we need some help," said Linus, no stranger to the aftermath of a brawl (although he didn't usually join in).

"Once the door opens, I will attract the attention of the staff. Thomas needs medical attention, how about you, Stanley?"

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 73):

Walker awakes with a start, and a fist flying feebly before his eyes are fully open.

"Are they gone?"

Yes, keep talking so I know you're still ticking.Blake turns an eye towards Stanley ...  Linus, can you give Stanley a look-over ?? as he nods in that direction.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 75):

Walker lifted his left hand, from his abdomen, there was blood on it.  He returned it quickly, and pressed as hard as he could.

"I got stabbed.  Fucker.  Make sure they don't get away.  I want them to go to jail.  Look in my left cargo pocket, there should be a bandana there, I'll use it to see about stopping the bleeding.  I need to go to hospital, that's the only way this is getting fixed, if the fucker didn't punch my stomach, liver or pancreas.  Tell Ken we step up training next time we're in Jump."

Walker looked angry, and somewhat pale.

Ken glared after the escaping gang member but turned back to his team.  He took an inventory of what he could see of the wounds and shook his head.  "They were after the artifact.  You could see them ganging up on Stanley and trying to get the box." His frown deepened.  "We're being followed by someone with resources, big resources that knows to track us.  We'll definitely have to step up our training Thomas as well as make sure Lorain increases her own security."

He nods to Linus.  "I'll jam the door open so that the train doesn't leave the station and go call for help.  You take a look at Stanley if you would Linus.  We don't want to move anyone and risk further injury."

The ticket-checkers were in the next car over, and they peeked in to survey the carnage. The woman was talking excitedly on her radio, the man was looking down the train in the direction the last attacker had fled, empty-handed.

A few seconds later, they pulled into the station. There were several commuters on the platform, but no transit police or security. The train doors opened, and they could see the man bolt through the crowd for the stairs down to the street. When the exit doors refused to open, having been remotely locked, he swiftly began climbing up and over the gate.

Linus looked at the ticket-checkers.

"Call an ambulance, please. Now."

He went over to Stanley and began to check him over (also checking that the artefact was still there!).

Hmmm, maybe everyone should carry an "artifact" next time ...

Seeing that his comrades were at least stabilized and that someone was available to call for emergency services, Ken made a quick decision.  Scooping up the knife on the floor he ran down the platform after the remaining thug.  "I'm going to chase him down if I can!" 

As he called out.  "Stop that man!  He's murdered my friend!"

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 79):

No one stopped the man, if anything, they moved away. He was soon over the top and scrambled down the stairs out of sight.

The woman nodded to Linus and replied, "I already have! There was some kind of disturbance further down the line, there's a delay in response right now.

"Is your friend all right? You checked if he's dead?" She indicated Stanley, who indeed wasn't moving where he'd sat down.

There were five of six attackers still there, and a couple were beginning to regain consciousness.

Ken pulled up short and shaking his head moved back to his friends.  "He got away too fast for me."  Seeing Linus dealing with the emergency he decided to make sure they weren't attacked again.  Using the knife he cut strips of cloth from their assailants and bound their hands and feet.

Almost immediately, the police finally showed up, followed by paramedics with bags. The gang members were easy to identify (with the assistance of the ) and arrested. As they were led off, the police moved the crew off to the side and began taking statements. Thomas was put in a grav ambulance and taken to hospital.

Other units were scouring the streets, and having no luck.

What about Stanley?

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 85):

They're not sure what to do with him. There's a short delay before another ambulance arrives to take him to the Institute hospital, as they are the most experienced with xenomedical procedures.

Linus will go with Stanley, he may relish a familiar face... (not to mention keeping the artefact safe, in fact Linus will take it). As a former resident on Stanley's planet, he can also share whatever he knows about the species.

Blake rides along in the ambulance with Thomas.  Partly to have his cuts looked after & to also keep an eye on him.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 88):

Walker lays back on the stretcher.

"Thanks.  Glad I bought some extra field coats, this one's shot."

"Next time I leave the ship, I'm packing a field dressing kit."

Time for some body armor too.  Tasers, etc.

Ken will call Lorain and inform her of the attack and that they are headed to two sets of hospitals.  He will suggest that she meet them at the Institute hospital.

He'll see that Blake and Thomas are well off in the ambulance as well as confirming their destination hospital. "Blake, I'll go with Linus and Stanley.  We'll call you once we are settled.  I think we need to get the artifact safely to the Institute right away so that we are no longer targets."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 91):

The assailants were all "known to police" while the crew of the ship all possessed ID and passports, so along with the statements of the monorail personnel it was easy to tell who started the fight and who was blameless.

With Blake in the ambulance with Thomas, and Linus going with Stanley (to safeguard the artifact now in his possession) Ken was left to call Lorrain. The call went to her voicemail after a recording informed him her phone was turned off.

Ken cursed as Lorain's phone turned to voice mail.  Damn... was there an attack on her going on as well?  Why would she turn her phone off.  Shaking his head, Ken thought for a moment and called Linus.  "Hey Linus, Lorain's not answering her phone.  It's not a good sign as she could have been attacked as well.  I'm going to see if I can warn her or help if she's been attacked."

He turns to the police and heads to the officer in charge.  "Officer, we think this attack was meant to try and seize an artifact that belongs to the Institute and Lorain Messandi.  She's not answering her phone and there may be an attack on her as well.  Can you call someone to check on her?"

"All right," said Linus. "I'll stay with Stanley, you go and check on Lorain."

He looked worried. Lorain was the daughter of his old friend after all.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 93):

Normally, it would take 48-72 hours to declare someone missing, so this wasn't a priority. However, it was possible the attack wasn't a coincidence. The police Sergeant called the reservation desk at the meeting place of The Queen's Republic, Lorrain's office, and her home address. She hadn't shown up for dinner, and there was no answer from her home.

Then the Sergeant called the Institute. "I have some bad news. Institute security says that less than an hour ago, Lorrain was kidnapped while getting into her aircar. Some detectives downtown would like to speak to you, maybe see if you can make a positive ID."

The Sergeant opened the rear door to his grav-cruiser. "Hop in, I'll take you there. Don't worry, you're not being arrested."

Ken frowned and his face grew stony as he learned first of Lorain's absence and then of her abduction.  "I'll be glad to come down and answer whatever questions are needed.  In the meantime I believe that she's been kidnapped by Eneri Kalamaru or one of his henchmen.  We had a run in with them on Miryan and I believe the attack on us was related to her work on the Sky Raiders and their loot.  We can give you descriptions of the likely suspects but you need to put a watch on off planet traffic as I would imagine they are going to try and get her off planet."

As he talks Ken gets into the cruiser.  He calls Linus and tells him what has happened and where he is going.

OOC: Did I see a badge on the sergeant?

"Thanks, Ken. Take care, now," said Linus. Once Stanley was settled and receiving treatment, he'd continue on to the Institute proper... oh, and check up on Professor Jothan Messandi - someone might have gone after him as well!

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 96):

The "uniform" sergeant had a badge with number. And a uniform, marked aircar, etc. The other police were deferring to him. Obviously, this wasn't some kind of ruse. Police just didn't like anyone riding in the front seat other than police!

Once at the main police station downtown, Ken repeated his story. The detectives listened with interest, taking notes. Kalamanaru's name didn't elicit much response at first; these were not customs agents and his criminal record was clean of any wants, warrants or even charges. After some quick research on the planetary compu-net, it was obvious Kalamanaru was a respected wealthy businessman in the interstellar shipping industry, which Ken already knew but the detectives did not.

The senior detective, Detective Kashi, leaned back in her chair and sized Ken up. "Listen, Mr. Jenkins. Ken? It's not that we don't believe you, but these are serious accusations about Mr. Kalamanaru. It's clear he's an important person and he's not suspected of any wrongdoing here on Alzenei. What's the motive? What's the connection to tonight's attack on you? For all we know, this could have something to do with smugglers, and Miss Messandi could have wanted to go to police, or was somehow involved."

It was clear she wasn't ruling Ken out as a suspect or otherwise being involved. This made a certain amount of sense; Kalamanaru was highly respected if not untouchable, whereas Ken was an offworlder who had some kind of personal relationship with Lorain, and who'd been involved with her in recently recovering a large cache of Sky Raider artefacts for the Institute. But she put that aside for the moment.

"Can you ID Miss Messandi's assailants? Here, have a look at the footage."

One of them seemed familiar. He was sure it was a henchman of Kalamaru's right-hand man, Bren Pylory. But he did not know this man's actual name.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:58, Sat 01 Mar 2014.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 97):

The Institute wasn't going anywhere, so Linus visited Jothan first, via skycab. Messandi answered the door, dressed in a housecoat and slippers.

"Come in, come in! Just getting some writing done. I might not have made as big a mark on academia as my daughter, but people seem to like what I write. Mainly popular science and archaeology. Well now, it's a living."

"Good. You're safe," said Linus, somewhat more abruptly than usual.

"I am sorry to be the bearer of bad news, old friend, but it seems that Lorain has been kidnapped. And we were attacked on the way to meet her... we'd been following up a lead on another Sky-Raider artefact and were bringing it to her."

Ken will maintain his composure as he speaks to the police.  "Ken, please officer.  As for Kalamanaru, he actually kidnapped Lorain's father on Miryan as well as did the same to us.  We foiled his attempt to get the treasure there and I believe he's now after Lorain to try and find other Sky Raider sites.  The artifact that we were carrying may have had hints to further sites and could have precipitated the attack and kidnapping.  Lorain had noticed it and engaged our services to retrieve it and bring it to her."

At the photo of Lorain's assailants Ken frowns in anger.  "I don't know the name but that one was involved on Miryan."

She corrected him, "Detective."



She sat back and regarded him thoughtfully for a moment, checking her files.

"I see. Unfortunately, Mirayn's not just another system, it's out of League jurisdiction. Ah... I see no charges were filed at that time, no surprise. If they were, it would be a federal level case. But I also see you have a clean record... decorated veteran... honourable discharge, League Marine Infantry. Currently the captain of the Institute-owned vessel Empress Victoria, registered out of Alzenei for the last six months."

Det. Kashi sighed. "All right, let's say I buy your story, it doesn't make any sense that you'd both be involved in the kidnapping and an attack to grab this package. And it's too coincidental. If there are links to those clowns on the monorail and, ah, Kalamanaru, maybe something will turn up. Is there anyone who can back your story up? Make a positive ID on this man? Not just Professor Messandi. Anyone else?"

Fixing Linus a cup of coffee, Jothan shook his head. "Terrible. I thought we were done with Kalamanru. I understand why Lorain decided not to press charges, not enough solid evidence for the police to open an investigation. For myself, my less-than-legal arrangements with him meant I wasn't about to face his lawyers in court, either. Kalamanaru had too much to lose carrying out a petty vendetta and even he didn't want to tangle with the Institute. Stalemate. But of course you know all that."

He indicated the ruggedised carry case. "Is that it? The artefact?"

GM Note: we never went into why there wasn't a big court case or legal imbroglio. My take is that technically, what happened was a legal matter for Miryan's courts, with whom Kalamanaru has a lot of clout. As for Alzenei, he has a lot of influence there and is considered to have a colourful if a chequered past (think Donald Trump). Without hard proof all charges would be based on hearsay. Due to the association with the League Defence Forces and the Scout service the Institute it's probably not been worth Kalamanaru's while to interfere with them or Lorain before now.

Ken nods; "Detective."

"Actually we we recovered the artifact and were bringing it to the Institute under contract.  I would speculate that the attack on us was meant to seize it."  He considered her question.  "Aside from Jothan Messandi any one of my comrades could recognize that man."  Ken smiled ruefully; "But then we're all in cahoots together, right?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 104):

"It's a working theory that you are, yes." He wasn't sure if she was joking or not.

"Forgive me, I don't actually see any of your companions. I can have them brought in for questioning, or maybe you'd like to give them a call?

"And where is said artefact? Can I get a look at it?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:45, Sat 01 Mar 2014.

"Yes, it is. Stanley was carrying it, but he was injured in the attack on us so I took charge of it for the time being," explained Linus.

"Do you want to take a look?"

After a few hours waiting in "Emerge", Thomas was patched up and then released. At this time, Blake was bored out of his skull.

Old Scout Service proverb, When it rains, it pours ...

He then gives Thomas the questioning eyeballs, Join with the others & track her ladyship down ??  Prowl the starport looking for a get-away ship ??  Or find her father ??

Ken shook his head. "I'd say you are coming at things from a very odd perspective Detective when you figure out what all this entire group has been through together.  Still," he shrugged, "I guess it is your job to form suspicions unwarranted or not."

"I'd prefer to call them.  They are at the hospital either wounded or staying with the wounded.  Obviously our clever diversion to stab ourselves in order to draw away attention hasn't worked yet."  He considers.  "I would imagine that my friends are going to deliver the artifact to the Institute."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 109):

She laughed, a little cynically. "Put yourself in my place. Why would I have cause to think anyone is innocent here? But making digs about how I do my job or my perspective is not as helpful in proving your innocence as you might think.

"Moving on. It's okay about the thingy, I would guess the artefact itself is not important here, only that someone wants it. Please, give your friends a call. The sooner we get a name and ID, the sooner we can locate Lorain."

If there is a public terminal about, Blake will peruse the ships presently docked on planet.  Probably a huge list, narrow it down to 500 tonners or less ...

Yawn ....

Sounds like we're going to the 'big house' for a while ...

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 111):

There was no hospital public access terminal.

However, the crew back on the ship would probably have much easier access to that information.

"Taxi to the ship, replace my shredded clothing, and add in body armor.  I don't feel like being stabbed like that in the near future, if ever.  Call Ken and see what he wants us to do.  He may have different priorities."

Roger that.

He calls a taxi service & then Neva to see if she can start a ship search on the star port, say 5oo ton or less vessels presently here.  And turn on the intrusion systems too.  He passes along what he knows.

He ponders calling the love birds, Marial & the J-ster ...

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 114):

On the ship, Neva heard her phone chime.

She also heard Jaxxon say over the PA that police were asking for access to the ship, and that they needed to ask some questions about Lorain Messandi.

Ken nodded.  "I see your point. I apologize if I came across as harsh.  We're both under a lot of pressure and I've just had two members of my crew nearly killed and a very close friend kidnapped.  It's got me a bit tense."  He shifts and pulls out his comm.

[Comm to Blake]
"Blake, how is Thomas?  I need you or the two of you to head over to the police station when you can to ID they guys that kidnapped Lorain."

[Comm to Linus]
"Linus, how is Stanley?  I need you or the two of you to head over to the police station when you can to ID they guys that kidnapped Lorain."

After making the calls Ken turns to Det. Kashi.  "What else would you like to know?  Can we provide logs as to our whereabouts the last few weeks?"

Neva looked at her phone as if wondering what in the world it was.  She wasn't used to it ringing.  Finally she answered.

"Hello?  I mean Neva here.  Who's this?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 116):

The Detective smiled. "That's all right. You were in a big fight, who wouldn't be upset?

"Getting your whereabouts on record is a good start. Some other detectives went around to your ship, take some statements related to the kidnapping. Mainly routine."

Back at the ship, Jaxxon let the pair of detectives aboard. He, Mariel and Ollie nmet them to talk in the ship's lounge. Neva was asked to give a statement as well.

In reply to GM (msg # 119):

Jaxxon gave a statement about how he was hired to be a medic on Messandi's expedition to Mirayn. Shown a picture of the main suspect, he identified the man as "...Gildinkur. That's the only name I knew him by. I knew him to be an, ah, associate of Enari Kalamanaru. I can't say if Kalanamaru's operations on Mirayn were illegal or not, you'll have to ask them."

In reply to Jaxxon Zalvedes (msg # 120):

Mariel gave her own statement about how she was hired to be navigator on the ship. She denied knowing of its provenance at the time (originally hijacked from the Institute) or having any involvement in illegal activities such as smuggling or trafficking. As well, she had a solid alibi as starport security showed no

She nodded at Jaxxon's ID. "Yes, I head his name. Gildinkur was an associate of Bren Pylory, who is Kalamanaru's right-hand man. We transported them many times from here to Mirayn, but Kalamanaru? Never. He has a yacht, I think."

The detectives on the ship looked at each other unhappily. It was great to have a name or names, and they were desperate for leads. But it was very bad to have those names linked to a wealthy and well-regarded businessman. Even if this turned out to be true the only evidence was complete hearsay.

"Miss Morozova, would you mind giving us a statement on where you were today, your relationship to Professor Messandi and this Gildinkur fellow? Also, Bren Pylory and Eneri Kalamanaru."

"Would I! By all means yes!"

The case was set on his work desk and opened for examination. Messandi got a magnifying glass/light combination on a swing arm, the type academics used to examine artefacts.

"I don't know... it doesn't look fake. Everything seems quite old. But it's like a crude copy. I don't know what to make of it, quite honestly."

His wrist comp chimed and he was reminded to take his meds, an after-effect of the brain parasite that almost took his life.
This message was last updated by the player at 11:15, Tue 04 Mar 2014.

Ken replied to the detective.  "Well, I can have the crew aboard download our logs for the last month if you'd like.  As well I can ask them to cooperate with any questions you have."  He frowned.  "What concerns me is that whoever took Lorain obviously was after something to do with the Sky Raiders and possible treasure.  You know what kind of haul we brought back with us from Myran.  There are a lot of people who would like to get their hands on more of that kind of loot.  I'd think that there is a good chance that she's being moved off planet and out of League jurisdiction.  There should be some watch of the starports."

Chuckling at the eager academic, Linus helped him lift the artifact onto the table and arrange the lights.

"Could it have been a precursor item? Or maybe something an apprentice craftstman might have made?"

As the Professor was taking his meds, Linus's communicator chirped.

"Excuse me a moment... Oh. Hi, Ken. Stanley's being treated and is resting. I am with Professor Messandi now. He's safe, nobody has bothered him yet I am glad to say. But I am loathe to leave him alone until the threat has passed. See you later."

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 125):

Walker looked at his ruined shirt and his field jacket, covered in blood.

"Was that Ken?  What did he want?" he asked.

Neva heard what Thomas had to say.  "Yeah, the detectives are here now getting statements.  Hope everybody is ok.  I'll get back to you later."

She then turned to the detective that asked for her statement.

"Where was I.  That's easy enough.  I'm learning to be an engineer and have been helping getting this ship in tip top condition.  That's why I stayed on board.  I don't have a relationship with Professor Messandi. I think it was his daughter who hired us.  I wasn't thinking clearly at the time.  Just off a binge if you like.  Don't know who the other people are by their names anyway.  That one sounded familiar though.  Kalamari or whatever it was."

Neva wasn't exactly lying.  Her binge had been living on the streets and she had never liked just blurting out everything upon first acquaintance.  She really didn't know the others by their names but if they who they said they were or worth their pay, they'd try pictures next. She'd look at them first and then see if they rang a bell with her.

Blake relates his news to Thomas.  As they near the star port, he starts surveying the scenery ...

Ken responded to Linus:

"I'm glad Stanley is ok.  Definitely stay with Professor Messandi; he might still be at risk.  Can you see if he is able to review the artifact for us."

Ken responds to Neva and Blake;

"Stanley is fine and Linus is with Professor Messandi, Lorain's father.  If you have Blake and Thomas with you can you have them review the pictures of the people who kidnapped Lorain?  The police here would like us all to positively ID them."

She checked her own comm as Ken talked to his crew. When he was finished she said, "way ahead of you. My men have already alerted the starport. That was part of the reason he went down there. It seems we have a name for our mystery suspect. "Gildinkur". We're checking the database of known criminals now. I don't want to make assumptions, but I would guess this individual is here on a fake passport or is using an alias, but we may get lucky. The links to "Bren Pylory" and Kalamanaru is a little thin.

"Tell you what. Why don't you head back to your ship? I think I've got statements from all of you. If I need more information, I know where to get ahold of you. In the meantime, if this dingus is so important, you might want to consider some kind of safe storage for it. Like the Institute. Or your ship. In the mean time, get some rest, I'll let you know if anything comes up."

When he got back to him, Jothan was lighting his pipe, lost in thought.

"Perhaps. Yes, could be. Maybe it was something a primitive race saw at the time or found later, then copied?

"Do you think those fellows could have followed you here? Will they try and grab the artefact now, do you think?"

Jothan fearfully looked out the window.
This message was last updated by the player at 08:38, Wed 05 Mar 2014.

Back at the ship, the detectives finish taking statements, including Neva and Olly. They don't seem to have much in the way of followup regarding Kalamanaru, as they are interested mainly in the kidnapping.

The taxi from the hospital was a ground car. Only official and luxury vehicles were equipped with grav drive. Blake and Thomas arrived at the starport's line of extrality. "That'll be Cr43.75."

"Followed? I doubt that. But know where you live? Perhaps. I do not wish to alarm you, old friend, but it is wise to be cautious. Some of the others are talking to the local authorities, hopefully the villains will be taken soon - and Lorain rescued, of course."

Linus looked out the window.

"For the time being, finding out what we can about the artifact might be the best course. Leave the action to the younger ones more suited to it!"

Linus had not enjoyed being caught up with the brawl on the transit one bit, even if he had managed to hold his own, more or less.

I'll assume Blake has some cash, so he digs about & finds a 50 Cr.  Busy dropping off people at the star port today ??

Ken smiled.  "Thanks for taking the precautions to try and find Lorain.  She means a lot to me personally and professionally."  His smile turned to a frown at the name man he had identified.  "I've not heard that name but I'll remember it for sure..  Jothan Messandi spent a good deal of time with Kalamanaru on Myran and might know more about exactly the relationships between the group."

He nodded at her suggestion.  "The ship would be the safest place for the artifact.  I'll collect it and make sure we are more careful about being attacked.  Please let me know what you find." Ken paused. "We have no plans to leave the system immediately but do you require us to stay here for a while?"

"Strictly speaking, all your crew have alibis. Either you were on the monorail or on your ship. No way in our out of the starport without a record. If everything checks out I think you could get clearance to lift in a few days.

"I'll call Messandi tomorrow, see if he can come in to give a statement. Maybe he knows something about Kalamanaru's operations on Alzenei? Either way, have a good evening."
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:10, Thu 06 Mar 2014.

Jothan wandered back to the desk.

"I daresay this is the first real Sky Raider artefact I've had in my hands for a long time. There were the pieces that Lorain brought back, but the Institute took charge of those and I haven't been able to give them a good examination."

He pulled the magnifying lens down and started examining the plate closely.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 134):

The cabbie nodded his head. It was an okay tip, so he decided he could part with some information.

"Some businesspeople going to the starport hotel for a conference. Some passengers for the inter-system shuttle to orbit and the inner planet."


It had gone dark while they were dealing with the kidnapping and hospital visits. There didn't seem to be much in the way of action; there were a half-dozen ships parked in the berthing pits, plus dozens of small craft sitting on the tarmac. A Pinnace hooked to a boarding ramp was being loaded with luggage by a robot.

Ken nodded.  "We have at least a few days to refuel, gather cargo and passengers and perform a bit of maintenance anyway.  Just let us know how things go."  He pauses before leaving.  "You may already be there but I suggest you provide a guard for professor Messandi in light of what has happened."

After taking leave of the police, Ken heads to a coffee shop or such and calls Linus.

[Comm to Linus]

"Where do we stand with the artifact Linus?  I'm done with the police and we need to make sure it is secure."

[comm to Ken]

"The Professor is examining it now. All quiet here..."

Linus settled down to watch his old friend at work. Parts of him still hurt after the brawl and it was nice to relax.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 140):

The elder Messandi lived in a condominium in a gated complex. There was manned security at the gate and his own door camera. Secure enough save for a determined attack.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 134):

Walker grunts as he gets out of the cab.  Glued back together, but still sore, he followed Blake to the ship.

[Comm to Linus]

"How safe is the professor Linus?  I think ultimately we want to keep the artifact on the ship."

[Comm to Ken]

"The Professor lives in a gated community with security personnel at the gate, and there's a camera watching his front door. Seems reasonably safe for the time being."

[Comm to Linus]

"That's good but when he's done with the artifact let's bring it back to the ship."

[Comm to Ken]

"I suppose that's best. All right, then. Not sure how long that will be though."

When Blake has a spare moment, he would suggest making an image of the artifact, front, back & sides.  Just in case ...

Once back onboard, he surveys the ship & registers the mood.  He will politely ask to see the cops ID's & then settle in for some questioning.

[Comm to Linus]

"If you do decide to head back to the ship with the artifact let me know and we'll get you an escort.  I'm going to head over to Lorain's offices and see if there is anything to find assuming the police aren't already all over it."

Ken will head to the train and take the line that will get him close to the Institute.

[comm to Ken]

"Thank you, I shall."

Linus sounded relieved at the thought.

What's the name of the pinnace?

The pinnace, being a common 40-ton small craft, did not have a name but it did have a registration code: KK-91183644. Pinnaces were swift in-system vessels, with powerful engines and variable geometry (swing) wings for good maneuverability in an atmosphere. Typical configuration was 2 crew, 8 passengers and 12 tons of cargo. A "slow" variant carried even more at the cost of performance.




In about 40 minutes of travel by monorail, Ken arrived at the Institute. He was familiar with the layout of spread out buildings connected by walkways and paths, separated by green belts and parkland. Much like most of Alzenei City, there was little concession for ground vehicle travel as grav vehicles were in universal use at this level of technological development.

Ken was displeased to discover that Lorain's office was locked, and administration was closed for the day as it was after hours.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:56, Tue 11 Mar 2014.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 149):

Jothan looked up from his desk.

"Naybe you should take this for safekeeping. There's not much I can tell for now without access to a full suite of scanners and a lab."

If Ken reports this finding, perhaps professor Daddio may have a key/entry code ??

"You could always comm Professor Messandi."

Ken stopped outside the office and thought for a bit.

[Comm to Linus]

"I went by Lorain's office but it's locked.  Does the professor have a key or code to get in?  I'd like to look for clues if I can."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 155):

The professor apologised to Linus. He had no code or key. "I let myself into her office too often when she wasn't there to raid her files. Chasing some theory. My fault, really."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:32, Thu 13 Mar 2014.

Hmmm.  Blake turns to the nav computer, any moons or asteroids near-by ??  He maps a pinnace fuel/air range circle over the immediate star system map to see where such a craft could go - assuming 50-60% pinnace endurance.  He will then add the star port local traffic feed to the mapped sphere & check on ship / object identities.  He will pay close attention to objects near the out-bound traffic lanes.  Departing that way would raise few questions.  I assume this would be rather standard pre-flight course research.

Oh & if the detectives would like to follow along & gather about a monitor ...

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 157):

Having taken their statements, the detectives packed up shop and left.

Blake called up the in-system master traffic display through the starport compu-net. According to the registration number, the Pinnace seemed to be a regularly-scheduled in-system flight to one the factories at the Lagrange point.

The Alzenei system was of a fairly high technology and large population. It was wealthy, and so maintained a considerable industrial base off-world. In-system traffic consisted of thousands of small craft (mainly 100-ton shuttles, 40-ton pinnaces and 50-ton modular cutters) and sublight ships (kiloton bulk freighters and megaton barges) at any one time. In-system traffic was mainly from the Mainworld to the orbital shipyard facilities (LEO and GSO) and moon, from there to industrial complexes in the Lagrange points, mining stations in the three asteroid belts and fuel stations in orbit around the gas giants.

Traffic to the Jump points was far more sparse, with a few incoming and outgoing starships. No yachts but a couple free traders, subsidised merchants and a League corvette (Close Escort).
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:31, Fri 14 Mar 2014.

"Yes, of course, old friend. It is what the others have suggested as well. Still, you may not be safe... so be wary, even here in the compound."

Linus packed the artifact up then got on the comm to say that he was ready to head back to the ship if someone would like to come for him.

Ken considered breaking in for a moment and then went to check outside if there was an entry through a window that might be feasible.  As he did he called Linus.

[Comm to Linus]

"I'm looking for another way in without busting down the door.  I'll come by to head back to the ship with you in just a bit."

[Comm to Neva]

"Neva, are you able to get through a locked door without leaving a trail?  I'd like to get into Lorain's office but it's locked."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 160):

Neva heard Ken's message and arched an eyebrow.  She had been known to enter into buildings before when they were empty.  How successful had she been?  Like everything the results were mixed...not that she'd tell Ken that.

<com to Ken>

"Hi Ken.  Neva here.  That's a might hard to say.  It's kind of hard to give a definitive answer with just what you told me.  I might be able to get in but leaving no trace?  No guarantees.  What kind of lock?  Mechanical or electronic?  How much traffic and how much time will I have to work on it?"

Ken considered the lock.

[Comm to Neva]

"It looks mechanical.  None of this is real high security and things are deserted now."

<come to Ken>

"So you are saying that you want me to leave the ship and come on over.  Didn't you guys run into problem on the way over?  You say that security is lax right now.  Any more signs of trouble around?"

As she talked, Neva was on her way to where she knew the lock picks were located on the ship.  She had them stored in a special place that she had found when she had been doing maintenance.

[Comm to Neva]

"If you can get in without a lot of trouble we should have a look at whatever Lorain was up to.  There may be clues we can use." He paused.  "Let's at least evaluation the situation."

Blake does some checking on the 2 free traders, the subsidized merchie & the league corvette.  Entry, cargo, crew & owners ...

<come to Ken>

I could come and at least look into it and give a better evaluation.  I must say that I haven't done anything for a bit but will give you my opinion if you want.

[Comm to Neva]

"Come over and take a look at it Neva.  I don't want to get thrown in jail for breaking and entering but we should see what can be done.  I'll be nearby while you get here."

Ken will check things out a bit and then move somewhere from where he can watch while he waits for Neva.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 167):

<com to Ken>

I'll be there as soon as I tell Chief that I'm gone.  Make sure I have your correct coordinates.

While waiting for Ken to send the coordinates, Neva went to look up Ollie.

"Hey Chief.  The guys want me to meet them to check something out.  You ok with that or do you want me to stay here to keep you company."

[Comm to Neva]

"Ok, stand by, here are the coordinates.  I'll be nearby in a coffee shop by the time you get here."

Ken transmits the coordinates and goes to snoop around a bit.

Neva looked at the coordinates and saved them.  After telling Ollie that she had to step out, and after he had given his ok, Neva looked up the law level again.  She hadn't done that yet since she knew she was going to be on the ship.

The university admin buildings were locked after hours. To gain access to them would require defeating the electronic lock system. Then Lorain's office itself had a mechanical lock. There were security cameras, and foot patrols.

Ken found a cafe that was open on campus to kill some time, waiting for Neva to arrive. That took about forty minutes.

Back on the ship, Blake checked the registry. All the ships were registered out of League ports, either here on Alzenei or Nomael. None of them were non-League craft. It was not possible to get a passenger and cargo manifest over the Compu-Net. The corvette was a naval craft, its basing and assignment was considered classified.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:53, Tue 18 Mar 2014.

The status of these ships ??  Incoming, outgoing, repair work, salvage ...  Blake starts a preflight diagnostic running.  That stuff, done, he goes looking for Ollie.  How long would we need to lift off, if need be from the chief tinkerer ...

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 172):

"Could liftoff immediately. Jump maintenance, well, we're looking at another 2 shifts."

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 172):

The additional information on shipping outside of navigational data is sparse. After all, it's routine for ships to know what else is out there so they don't collide with it.

However, it is not routine to know their destination, cargo, passenger manifest because this is typically private information and of interest to pirates and hijackers. Criminals and private investigators usually had their own private channels to find this kind of information out but to find out more, Blake would need to contact Space Traffic Control and have a convincing reason. As well, the police would likely be looking at these private vessels first (aside from the Navy corvette) to determine if Lorain was being taken off-world.

Ken waved Neva over as she approached.  He had a second cup of coffee waiting.  "Well, I looked around a bit.  The building is locked with what looks like electronic locks as well as cameras.  There are a few patrols and then Lorain's office has a mechanical lock.  I'm not sure if that is too much to risk."

All thinked out for the moment, Blake rolls up his sleeves for some real life mechanical ineptitude training, i.e. assisting Ollie.  He will make sure the entry ways are locked before wandering off into the business end of their ship.  Ollie should be around somewhere, cackling about something, ruminating on upgrades or administering some elbow tonic to a random length of piping ...

Neva automatically picked up one of the cups of coffee and took a sip.  THEN she realized that she didn't know if it was hers.  She smiled up at Ken and gave him a rueful smile.  "Oh...Was that yours.  I'm sorry.  Just wave coffee or donuts in front of me and I'll cave."  She gave back the cup to Ken and then listened to what he said about the locks.

"It is situated where we could just walk by it without anybody being suspicious?  Perhaps then I could scope it out better.  If not then I'd automatically say skip it because it would be too obvious that something is up."

Ken chuckled as Neva grabbed one of the cups of coffee.  He listened to what she had to say and rose.  "Well, we can nab some donuts on the way back if you'd like or bring a dozen for the rest of the crew."  He pushed the cup of coffee back toward her.  "Let's go ahead and take a walk through the grounds.  I'll show you the situation and you can judge."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 178):

Neva smiled as Ken pushed the coffee back at her and muttered thanks before taking it and taking another sip.  "That sounds like a good plan.  Let's walk it and get more donuts.  2 dozen sounds like a good amount.  One can never have enough donuts you know."

Ken smiled and finished his coffee.  "Sounds like a plan Neva. If nothing else we can look like a couple out for a stroll." He extends his arm to her to take and then heads out toward the Institute area.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 180):

Neva finished her coffee and through it away.  She smiled at Ken and took his arm.  "Sounds like a good plan. We're just on a stroll and you can play my guide to points of interest."

The building where Lorain's office was located was still open. They had to walk by a security camera in the lobby to get to her wing. Cameras covered exit and entry points, plus main corridors.

Assuming Ken and Neva just walk in they find Lorain's office dark and secured by a mechanical (key) door lock. The office next to her, normally occupied by her assistant, Dr. Lokhav, was also dark and locked.

Back on the ship, Blake found Ollie.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 176):

Ollie was in the middle of maintenance, getting the ship ready for the next Jump. However, no one knew where that would be so best just to be prepared.

"Hey. What's up?" He was studying some readouts on his hand computer, frowning.

All spic & span, ready for the master chief's white glove inspection ??  Otherwise, point me in a direction ...  Say, did Neva make you any lunch ??  I can probably whip up some scout service culinary delights ??

Ken smiled at Neva and took her arm.  He led them into the Institute and through the corridors where Lorain's office was located.  "If the break in is spotted they'll know we were here from the camera footage.  Can you even work at the door out of sight of the cameras in the hall?"

Ollie stopped to check his wrist chronometer. "Yikes! Look at the time. I think I could go for a bite to eat. Skipped lunch, and it's almost past dinner time."

Putting away his tools, he commented, "so, you find out anything at the starport? Or have you been, yet?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 185):

The corridor outside Lorain's office and lab did not have security cameras. Neva thought she could pick the locks in fairly short order.


GM Note: roll 8+ to pick lock, Streetwise levels are a bonus and a further +2 if DEX is 10+.

Blake gives Ollie a pat on the back & they head off to find some roast beast along with a side dish or two.  Starport ??  A streetgang beat us up pretty good on the monorail.  Time to start being careful around here. 

Neva walked with Ken, enjoying the companionship as well as the support as she looked the area over.  She didn't see anything but there was that feeling that something wasn't right.  She couldn't put her finger on it but it didn't feel right.

"Oh this is so much fun.  I'm glad that we have some private time together. Of course it would be better if we, perhaps, went back to your room."  Neva let her fingers crawl up Ken's arm as she said this and massaged his arm as she leaned into him to whisper, "Let's get out of here to talk."

Ken raised his eyebrows at Neva's words but smiled and nodded, playing along.  He leaned over and kissed her cheek and headed out of the building.  "Sure thing darling, I've got a warm bed and cold bottle of champagne waiting."

Once they got outside and well clear of the building he continued walking but looked down at her.  "What is your evaluation of the place Neva?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 190):

Neva played her part until they got and could find a private place to talk.  "I don't know Ken.  Either I've been out of practice a lot longer then I thought I had or I'm getting paranoid.  It doesn't feel right Ken."

Neva paused for a bit before continuing.  "Have you ever had the feeling that something was too easy?  I didn't see any security cameras in the hallways.  I would have thought they would have something.  I don't know if it's a silent alarm or what.  That lock should have been easy to pick.  It just doesn't feel right."

Ollie headed over to the galley. "C'mon. Want to get something to eat."

"Okay, you can be careful. What are you thinking? Like, "stay in the ship" careful or "don't go anywhere unarmed and don't take public transportation" careful? I could go with you. We could take the air raft. Law says that personal concealable weapons are banned. Now, I guess they don't want people walking around with autorifles but a shotgun or two, kept handy, is OK. Plus, take a blade or something like that?"

Ken sighed.  He'd been in combat and other stressful situations enough to respect the hunch of a skilled professional.  "I understand what you are saying Neva.  I have been in combat operations where things just weren't right.  Once it led to an ambush and the other time a terrible, heads on fight with lots of casualties."  He shook his head. "If there was more time to come up with a better plan or arrange some kind of inside help then I'd feel better about it." He smiled.  "Let's go get those donuts and think about it."

As he led them back to the donut shop he suddenly stopped.  "We could give Lorain's assistant a call or even her doctor friend that was on Miryan with us.  They might be able to help."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 193):

The phone numbers for Lorain's assistant, Dr. Lokhav, was next to his door. One for business hours and one for after hours emergencies. They also had contact information for Dr.Talia McKenzie, Lorain's friend.

In reply to GM (msg # 194):

Neva nodded and was glad that Ken didn't push the issue.  She might have tried but it just didn't feel right and when it didn't feel right mistakes could be made. Sometimes deadly mistakes.  There was usually more than one way to get information and perhaps her friends could tell them more about her.

"Sure.  Perhaps they will be able to tell us stuff about her.  Make sure you have a cover story in line before you call though.  Why are you calling the doctor after hours?"

Ken headed into the shop and went to the counter.  "So, a couple of donuts Neva?  I like the jelly filled ones although I'll have to increase my work out tomorrow to accommodate it."  He got a cup of coffee as well and sat down.

"I think we call Talia first and tell her the truth.  She's Lorain's friend and was with us on Miryan and will understand.  She may have clues to what has been happening lately and may be able to get us into Lorain's office.  If not we try the assistant Dr. Lokhav."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:34, Sat 22 Mar 2014.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 196):

Neva nodded to Ken and licked her lips as she saw the donuts.  "One bear claw, some glazed, long johns, jelly filled of course.  Yes to all.  Surprisingly the chocolate ones, unless they are white chocolate, are my least favorite but everything else is fair game and....."

Neva stopped and her eyes lit up as she pointed to another section.  "I'll have 4 of them for myself but I'd like one now to munch one while you box up the rest please."  Neva had spotted some glazed fried croissants.

Ken laughed and started ordering donuts for Neva.  "I'll go ahead and get another dozen or so to bring back to the ship."  He bought the ones she had pointed out in the case and then glanced over at the fritters;  "You want one of those as well?  The fritters look delicious.  Pick one of these and we can sit and munch.  Then I can call Talia."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 198):

As the evening progressed past dinner time and it became dark, students from the university began to drift in.

In reply to Oliver Oliphant Oksasaellllozae (msg # 192):

"Or, Blake, if you're not thinking of going into the Starport then maybe we can take the air/raft and get Linus back here. I don't think it's a good idea to have that plate out there."

Not to turn a fritter down, Neva nodded at Ken and pointed to the one that she wanted.  She smiled briefly at Ken when he said to get another dozen to bring back to the ship and quipped "You know my room number for the delivery right?" and then chuckled.

With fritter in hand, Neva found a place for them to sit and watched the area for trouble while Ken made his call.

Good idea Ollie.  That would save him from traveling back alone too.  Blake looks about, who else is back to guard the ship??  Jaxxon & Mariel ??

Ken called Talia.

[Comm]

"Talia, this is Ken Jenkins from Miryan.  Can we talk?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 203):

Talia answered the phone. Being a good friend of Lorain's, Ken had seen her on occasion while going out with Lorain.

"Hi Ken! It's been a while, great to hear from you again. I heard that Lorain was kidnapped! Probably by that awful man, Kalamanaru.

"What's the matter?"
This message was last updated by the player at 03:03, Fri 28 Mar 2014.

"Jaxxon, Mariel and Thomas should be enough to keep everything here nice and secure.

"Let's call Linus, tell him we're on our way. As well, let Ken know. Those guys are probably breaking into Lorain's office right now, if I don't miss my guess, and we might have to bail them out if things go Rimward!"

Call Linus while I fire up the air raft.  Tell the stay-at-homes to be alert.  This time Blake packs the duct tape, carbine, spare ammo, flak jacket & a couple first aid packs.  He also spins up his inertial locater & brings the aviator sunglasses.

He then gets the air raft running & waits for Ollie & any gear he wants to bring along.  While waiting, he looks around the 'neighborhood', any obvious snoops & such ??

[Comm]

"We're tying to find out exactly what happened to Lorain.  We were attacked about the same time as she was taken by people trying to get a Sky Raiders artifact from us.  It's probably all connected with Kalamanaru.  Do you recall anything Lorain was talking about in the last week or so that might connect with what's happening?  Also, can you get us into her office?"

"Done. Will meet you at air/raft berth in ten minutes.

"Leave the Carbine. It's illegal outside the Starport. A shotgun should be permissable but the cops might be suspicious if we're not going hunting."

He issued instructions to Jaxxon, Mariel and Thomas. They seemed to understand, and then he called Linus.

[Comm]

"Linus, Blake and I are coming over to pick you up at Messandi's. We should be about a half hour."

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 206):

Parked as they were in the Starport, someone could be watching them from afar as they sat, parked, on the plascrete apron.

Other than that, it was a quiet, warm evening. Stars were appearing now as the last glow of twilight faded.

In the videophone, she looked concerned.

"Good Lord, I'd hoped we'd left Kalamanru and his thugs back on Mirayn. All she mentioned was that you all were picking up a possible Sky Raider artefact. She was excited to see you but I doubt that's related to her disappearance. But no, nothing else, she didn't seem especially threatened.

"But yes, of course, I have a key to her office on campus. Are you at the Starport?"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:00, Sat 29 Mar 2014.

[comm]

"Sounds good, Ollie. See you then."

Checking that the artifact was ready for transport, Linus continued chatting with his old friend whilst waiting.

Right !! The old carbine/shotgun switch-a-roo ...  Flashlights too.  He sets in Linus' location on his locater.

In reply to Oliver Oliphant Oksasaellllozae (msg # 208):

"Can you keep a line open to us?  If not, I'll keep a headset on, and listen for requests."

OOC:  Is there an observation bubble on top of the ship, or someplace that Walker can go watch things from?

OOC2:  He'll also keep his rifle handy, but out of site, using binoculars to look around the planet.

Ken looked momentarily pleased as Talia mentioned that Lorain was excited to see him on his return before his face returns to a serious frown.

[Comm]

"The police have video of one of Kalamanru's thugs snatching Lorain.  We really need to find her before they do something bad to her or take her off planet."  He paused.  "We're at the Institute.  Can you meet us there?"  He gives the name of the coffee shop.

Blake & Ollie will fly off in a random direction & distance before jinking there way to Linus.

"Will keep a line open. Our route is programmed into the inertial nav. We're heading to the far side of the capital city from the starport, basically."

"Yes, of course. I can be there in, fifteen minutes. Meet you at the coffee shop."

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 215):

The upper deck of the ship was lounge/passenger quarters at the bow, engineering in the rear and fuel tanks in the middle. There wasn't really any kind of observation bubble but the bridge did have access to outside security cameras. Jaxxon and Mariel also decided to get armed up with autopistols and shotguns.

Their flight to where Linus waited was brief. They circled around the city, using random "streets" that were transit corridors in the sky for the heavy air/raft and grav traffic. Off to their left, they could see the city lit up at night, brilliant glass towers lit from within in pastel colours.

At the Institute, Talia arrived on time in her own grav-car. It was the air/raft equivalent of a practical minivan.

In reply to GM (msg # 218):

Walker sat down in the bridge, looking at the cameras that watched the outside of the ship, with a plate of biscuits, some egg-and-cress sandwiches, and a thermos of tea.

This was no different than waiting for one of Ixtli, the great water predators on Shogun.  Just had to be patient.

[Comm to Talia]

"Take care on your way here Talia, you might be a target.  We'll be waiting."

Ken turned back to Neva and sipped his coffee.  "Talia has a key and can get us in."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 220):

Neva smiled as she finished another donut and sipped coffee.  "Well that will make it easier.  I can then look more closely at any surveillance they might have had.  I can't believe that they wouldn't have any."

Another night, another planet's evening life styles on display.  Blake finds a couple of hide-aways to hide in for a while & watch for followers ...  Assuming no visible interest, he swerves towards Linus & company, approaching from the back of the building.  How's it look Linus ??  Approaching from your rear.

Say Ollie, do you think we should take both of them with us ??  Blake makes a medium altitude pass over looking for a nice LZ ...

She replied, via com, "I'm there. Just finding a place to park now."

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 222):

Most traffic on Alzenei was anti-grav, and even these vehicles needed a place to park. Typically, houses and buildings had landing areas ranging from well-lit concrete pads to open spaces nearby only large enough to allow an air/raft or two to land. Messandi's home was in a row of condos, and there was a laneway behind it for utility purposes like trash removal and deliveries. There was a series of pads out front connected to the building via walkways and separated by a row of hedges. Lots were numbered to identify the owning unit.

"You want me to land in the rear alley? Or how about the parking lot a block or so away? There's also a park a little further back."

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 222):

When Blake called, Messandi said to Linus, "My landing pad is 34C. I have a compact air/raft parked there. There is also a rear lane. I won't mind coming for tonight, but I'm still taking treatments at the Institute."

Ken nodded to Neva, "Definitely we'll need to be more careful of surveillance especially.  At least we'll not be breaking and entering overtly.  Tallia is a friend of Lorain's and should be less suspicious."  He rose and finished his donut.  "Let's go outside and meet Talia, I feel a bit nervous about all this still."

He headed outside and toward the street to look for where Talia might have parked.

[Comm]

"We've stepped outside Talia, where have you parked.  We'll meet you."

[comm]

"The Professor's pad is 34C. He is thinking of coming along."

Linus turned to the Professor.

"Have you everything you need for a few days, old friend?"

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 227):

"Ah, I think so. Please give me a moment, I'll pack a case."

He started to get an overnight bag ready, as well as one with instruments and analytical equipment and his portable computer. Soon, he had a few cases put together and was still going.

"Rule of thumb, Jothan: never pack more than you can carry yourself," said Linus.

Jothan snorted, amused. "I'll keep that in mind, next time I organise an expedition to another World. Unless we're going to walk, may as well have it and not need it. This way I can get some work done." He didn't seem to be taking Linus's advice, but then, he was the man who took a fully equipped expedition into the outback of Mirayn and then ended up kidnapped by his smuggler patron and with a deadly brain parasite.

He surveyed his handiwork. "That should do it, and I'm sure all my medicines are packed. If you wouldn't mind grabbing a bag?"
This message was last edited by the player at 11:39, Thu 03 Apr 2014.

"Of course I'll help," said Linus, getting the artifact and some of his old friend's luggage gathered up.

"Make sure everything's locked up tight before we go."

34 Charlie it is ...  Lets be snappy here.

Down they come & land, Blake keeps the engines muted running for a get-away if needed.  He scans the sky for routes to take, letting Ollie do the ground scenery.

Talia was parked a half-block down. "Over here!" She waved Ken and Neva over to her modest 4-door compact air/raft. She hugged her companions and smiled, genuinely happy to see them. They hadn't seen too much of each other but they'd come through a lot together.

"Do you want to take my air car and park there, walk it, or some combination?"

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 232):

Keeping his shotgun down below the line of sight, Ollie kept a 360 degree visual check. "Keep a sky-watch, Blake. Worlds like this, threats could come from above, yeah?"

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 231):

Linus and Messandi spotted the ship's 4-seat open air/raft land out front in the hedge-lined landing pad.

Struggling a little with his luggage, Messandi switched on his alarm and vacation light timer. "There, that should do it. Let me lock up."

After Linus remembered to unplug the kettle, the exited the condo. Messandi locked up and they headed out.

Blake and Ollie saw them as they approached through the break in the hedge. "Hullo, chaps! Where to? The starport?" asked Messandi.

Neva awkwardly returned Talia's hug but put a smile on her face.  Hugging was  something she had to get used to again but it had felt good.

"How about a combination?  It would be good to have the air car in case we need to make a quick get away but it would be good probably to walk part of it.  What do you know of the security of the place Talia?"

Blake pops the trunk for the safari gear ...  Buckle up gents.   a look about & off we go ...

Ken returned the hug, glad to see Lorain's friend. He'd gotten to know her on the expedition and then a bit more here on Alzenei although mostly in the company of Lorain.  Hopefully she'd gained more experience and perspective during their expedition than she started with.

"Good to see you Talia, let's take the air car and park up closer and then walk.  I'd rather not leave around too many clues if someone later spots your air car."

"Good to see you," said Linus, attending to the loading of the luggage.

"In you get, old friend..." He sees the Professor aboard, then follows.

Jothan and his luggage were loaded into the open-topped air/raft. Bags went in the far back, Jothan and Linus in the rear seat and Black and Ollie in the front.

Back at the ship, Thomas didn't see anything suspicious at the Starport. A 400-ton trader came in for a landing a ways away. It was automatically caught and lowered onto a landing pad by the Starport's tractor-repulsor field array.

At the University, they landed and parked a few blocks away from the office block which contained Lorain's lab and office. They walked along a lit pathway (the pavement itself being the source of light) without incidence. The front door was locked because it was now fairly late, but Talia used her access card to enter. Lorain's office was on the 2nd floor, and Talia led them up a side stairs. Midway down the hall were the doors marked "Lorain Messandi, PhD" and that of her assistant.

In reply to GM (msg # 240):

Neva watched the security closely while Talia used her access.  She was looking for anything out of the ordinary since she still couldn't figure out why she hadn't seen cameras and stuff.  Still it was good to get in and she thanked Talia for coming along and letting them in.

Both Ken and Talia could hear her mutter to herself, "It's so much easier when you have a key."

Blake heads back to the ship.  He's intending to drop off the passengers & be available the captain & Neva need assistance.  He will comm Thomas to have the door ready when they arrive.

Ken tried to maintain a normal facade as the trio walked from the car to the entrance door.  He moved inside with the others and looked around.  "Are we on camera Neva?"

As he waited for an answer Ken chuckled nervously. "Let's get this thing open if the coast is clear."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 243):

The lack of security wasn't too out of the ordinary. There were more higher-security areas engaged in sensitive research, government and Scout service projects, but these buildings were more academic in nature. Going up the rear way, they avoided the main security cameras but passed one in the bottom of the rear stairwell.

Talia unlocked the door to Lorain's office.

"There we go. Now, what are we looking for?"

Lorain's office had a desk area where she did paperwork and met students. There was an adjoining lab area where she worked on her findings.

Ken avoids looking at the camera as they pass it to at least somewhat obscure his face without looking too guilty.  He slips inside the office and looks about.  "Let's make sure we don't make noises or lights that would be spotted from outside." He takes a tissue and covers his hands as he looked through the desk.  "We want to see if there are any clues that would relate to her recent work on the Sky Raiders and the artifact we found recently in particular.  We did send her images of the artifact in advance so she might have done some work already.  Papers, notes, her computer if we can get into it, the lab.  Let's do a thorough search."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 245):

Neva turned her face away from the camera and when they were inside pulled out some thin leather gloves.  She nodded to Ken about what they were looking for and then turned to Talia.  "Do you know if she kept her files on a computer and if so if it's around and do you know her passwords?"  While waiting for an answer, Neva took the opposite side of the room from Ken and started to search for the items that Ken had mentioned.

"Jaxxon here. I'll have the door open for when you arrive.

"Is Linus with you? Does he have the artefact? Are you safe?"

Everything is green so far, your end ??Blake comms back.  Blake sneeks a couple looks at the passengers, making sure they're OK.  Blake tries to keep his eyes roving all about, 3 dimensional viewing comes from piloting.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 248):

"Yep. Bupkes is happening here. Ken and Neva took off to the Institute a couple hours ago."

After confirming everything was okay, he opened the air/raft bay doors. "Welcome home."

The passengers both seem okay.

Ollie piloted the air/raft into the bay above the forward cargo ramp, where it fit snugly. The outer lock door clanged shut and lights came on. The inner hatch valve wheel started spinning and then the door swung back, leading into the lounge.

In reply to GM (msg # 250):

The person who opened the hatch to the air/raft bay was Mariel. She was armed with a holstered autopistol.

"Glad to see everyone back! Sorry about the pistol, we're at something of a higher alert here, Thomas' insistence, and it makes sense."

"Hello, Mariel," said Linus, helping the Professor out of the air/raft.

"Go on into the lounge, old friend. I'll bring your stuff in."

Blake will lend a hand moving the prof's stuff inside.  He will also ask Mariel to file an open ended flight plan -- no destination yet.

OK - Please post in the new thread.