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15:11, 27th April 2024 (GMT+0)

Destination: Cassandra Belt.

Posted by StarMasterFor group 0
StarMaster
GM, 887 posts
Mon 12 Nov 2018
at 00:55
  • msg #1

Destination: Cassandra Belt

The Longshot made the jump to Cassandra Belt without incident, dropping out of J-space only 20 minutes from Rockport, the capitol of the asteroid belt government.

Not surprisingly, there were a dozen ships docked at the asteroid starport, including 3 military ships and 2 patrol cruisers. A freighter was departing just as another one was arriving.

Due to the short distance, the communication time-lag is virtually non-existent, so the transponder protocols take place instantly... maybe 5 seconds before the full protocols are processed and approved.

You are cleared for docking and given a vector.

As near as you can tell, it's just business as usual.
Walter Zeller
player, 481 posts
Merchant/Noble
Mon 12 Nov 2018
at 04:01
  • msg #2

Destination: Cassandra Belt

Once the Longshot entered n-space after departing Outpost, Walter called the group together.

"Alright, I have called you all here to take care of ship business while we travel to Cassandra. Since we went in on the Longshot, some of the group is no longer aboard the ship and I have been acting captain due to whatever caused the problems with Count Cromwell. He is no longer here along with Gregory and Kaengarr. Kheaiftouaw, Samantha, Sharik, and Vonon we have had many adventures along the way up to this point. We have had others come and go along the way. So that begs the question, what's next?" he asked.

"Right now we just made 35 million credits from recovering Serge, his ship, Evelyn and the alien items. I feel that Serge and Evelyn should get a share of the money since they helped in one form or another in the recovery. I figure 2.75 million credits per person with 2 million going to the ship for its overhead should be a fair disbursement of those funds. Once that is settled, I would like to propose a motion to dissolve the current set up in favor of starting our own private corporation, Longshot Enterprises." he said.

"So, there is a motion on the floor to pay out 2.75 million to each current and former crew member that was aboard our vessel or the alien vessel when we first encountered it, along with 2 million to the ship." All in favor?" he asked.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 398 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Mon 12 Nov 2018
at 07:10
  • msg #3

Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Walter Zeller (msg # 2):

Vonon looks a little wild-eyed, until Sir Walter actually calls for a vote,

"Ah!  Participating Democracy, right.  Now I'm with you." He says with an acknowledging nod of his head, then he gets a pondering look on his brow,

"Um, okay then, ah, Captain." Vonon raises his right hand, as if he needs to be acknowledged, "I would like to change everything you just said ... no, that's not quite right ... oh!  Got it!  I remember, now ... I would like to Amend the Motion currently before the Dictator--I mean Directorate."

"That is to say, I want to make a big change to your suggestion, Sir Walter.  I think we should turn it upside down." Vonon says, "I think we should determine what work the Longshot must have done, then we sit down and decide what work we would like to have done, then we find out what all that will cost and allocate the funds to do it with.  Then we split up whatever is left.  Ship first, paychecks second."
Samantha Kilgore
player, 446 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Mon 12 Nov 2018
at 09:20
  • msg #4

Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam listened to Walter and Vonun before chiming in.

"Sorry Walter, I think Vonuns right. Ship first. Paychecks second. Though I like your idea of forming a corporation. I'd support that bit."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 399 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Mon 12 Nov 2018
at 09:42
  • msg #5

Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Samantha Kilgore (msg # 4):

"Oh, yeah, yeah.  I'll back that, too." Vonon nods in agreement, "I just wanted to get it out there we should, right now, spend the Raiders Share of this money on the ship."
Serge Baklanov
player, 54 posts
Marine/Scout
Mon 12 Nov 2018
at 10:11
  • msg #6

Destination: Cassandra Belt

- In my point of view, both Walter and Vonon offer pretty much the same. Walter's option is a bit more delicate way - in case if someone would like to leave the ship before we organise "Longshot Enterprises". But I guess whoever wanted to leave, already did it.
- I support Walter's idea of private corporation and ready to chip in my share of course. But first I would like to know if there are things I have to know? I am sure you have a long story with "Longshot" and while looking how wary were you in Outpost system I guess there are reasons. I would like to learn if there are... tails to cut off? Or "Longshot Enterprises" will have a carte blanche for its operations?

OOC:
1) After character generation I have one "ship share" and I am ready to chip it in too, if that matters.
2) Is there a ship roster? Are there really twelve of us?
StarMaster
GM, 888 posts
Mon 12 Nov 2018
at 19:35
  • msg #7

Destination: Cassandra Belt

((OOC: At this stage, there are 9 characters, but we've got two new players that could be joining. The 12th slot was someone who request to join back in September but hasn't done anything since. I just went ahead and deleted him from the game.

So, that's make 11 characters. I'm thinking I may eliminate one of them to make it an even 10 characters.

There's not a recent/current ship's roster at the moment.))
Inderpal Kumar
player, 9 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Mon 12 Nov 2018
at 20:54
  • msg #8

Destination: Cassandra Belt

Private post
Valeska Brandenberg
player, 69 posts
Mon 12 Nov 2018
at 21:39
  • msg #9

Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Oh, really?" Valeska says. "I thought we were already incorporated. I could have sworn I had stock in it."

"Guess I'd better start paying attention better."

"Not to get technical, but are we getting stock premiums or are we getting a wage as hired crew?"

"I'd suggest we first figure out what we think the ship needs or wants, and then figure out how to split the credits up. If the cost of the upgrades is more than we have, then let's get paid first, since either way we can't get everything the ship needs right off the bat."

"As for what we're going to do next, that's significant to what the ship needs. If we plan on going pirate hunting, then better armor, better weapons and better electronics would be a good idea."
Kheaiftouaw
player, 590 posts
Aslan outcast
Mon 12 Nov 2018
at 23:58
  • msg #10

Destination: Cassandra Belt

Having stared sceptically as Vonon during has speech, Khea finally recovered from her eye rolling
"Now I do not know how the Imperium clan conducts business, but before we form an commercial enterprise we should actually decide what business that will be and if we can make money from it?"
Walter Zeller
player, 483 posts
Merchant/Noble
Tue 13 Nov 2018
at 03:26
  • msg #11

Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Part of doing it this way is to close out the old operation since it was started under Count Cromwell's name and form Longshot Enterprises Vonon. With him gone, unless we want his family to have a voice in our company, including if we are going to add new equipment and such, we would need to close out all current assets and pay off all of the shareholders." Walter said.

"As a rough guess, once we get it closed out, it will allow those that are here to invest what we have earned so far of between 30 and 40 Mcr, after paying off the amount that was paid for the current cargo to the old one. Also, we have no board of directors so a slate of them will be needed. To begin with a Chairman, Vice chairman, a Secretary and Treasurer will be needed."

"As to what with the corporation will do, Trade and Salvage come to mind. I do not see us running a factory anytime soon. Once at Cassandra, sell the cargo and install the various upgrades to the ship. The time waiting for them to be installed, that could be used to research what kind of salvage might be in the area."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 400 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Tue 13 Nov 2018
at 07:39
  • msg #12

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Walter Zeller:
"Part of doing it this way is to close out the old operation since it was started under Count Cromwell's name and form Longshot Enterprises Vonon. With him gone, unless we want his family to have a voice in our company, including if we are going to add new equipment and such, we would need to close out all current assets and pay off all of the shareholders." Walter said.


"Oh yeah, I see that, and I agree." Vonon stated with a nod of his furry head, "And, if you think of it in a certain way, dissolving the old agreement, paying it off, and forming a new one is part of what I was getting at with 'pay for the ship's needs first'.  We pay out to those other folks, and then we have a free hand to do whatever we want with the ship.  I'm with you, Sir Walter."

Walter Zeller:
"As a rough guess, once we get it closed out, it will allow those that are here to invest what we have earned so far of between 30 and 40 Mcr, after paying off the amount that was paid for the current cargo to the old one. Also, we have no board of directors so a slate of them will be needed. To begin with a Chairman, Vice chairman, a Secretary and Treasurer will be needed."


"Well, I don't know about a formal 'Board of Directors', but I agree we've got to have some kind of corporate decision-making process--especially for the times when a bunch of us might all disagree about how to do something."

"We could keep it simple, the Corporate Officer structure is identical to the Ship's Officer structure--the Chairman is the Captain, the Vice-Chairman is the X-O, the Secretary is the Primary Computer Operator--that would be Sharik--and the Treasurer would be..." Vonon's gaze wanders across the bridge and finally settles upon, "...the Chief Engineer!  Khea's already keeping a budget for keeping this old tub flying."

"Or we could go even simpler, and not bother with a formal Board.  We just have Ship Meetings whenever there is a big decision to be made, or if someone has a proposal or complaint.  If we can't resolve whatever it is by discussing it, then we all just vote on it and abide by the result of the vote.  And in true free-market form, we all have a number of votes equal to the number of shares we've invested into this endeavor."

Walter Zeller:
"As to what the corporation will do, Trade and Salvage come to mind. I do not see us running a factory anytime soon. Once at Cassandra, sell the cargo and install the various upgrades to the ship. The time waiting for them to be installed, that could be used to research what kind of salvage might be in the area."


"We are already at Cassandra's Belt, Sir Walter.  You mean once we've docked at Rockport.  As far as I remember, most of what we brought should fetch good money, here.  I think.  Everything, that is, except basic ores--that's what The Belt produces in great quantity."

"As for salvage, well, Cassandra's Belt is a pretty good place for that!  The majority of the population is spread out across The Belt, prospecting.  There are hundreds of small claim sites and minor facilities for processing ore all over the place.  Sometimes a claim pans out and gets shut down, other times the prospector has an accident and dies--and sometimes the death isn't an accident."

"Rock-hoppers, as a rule, are pretty stingy folk, and they'll scrounge anything they can. But sometimes an enterprising salvager can get to a closed or abandoned claim site before anyone else, and a goodly amount of mining and life support equipment can be salvaged, brought back to Rockport, and sold to Repurposers for several credits to the kilo."

"And that's not including finding stray or lost space buggies, which can be brought back for salvage or a SAR reward, but they also have the chance of having a hold full of ore and a dead crew.  The Patrol maintains an infoboard at the port listing missing and overdue space buggies, and coordinates for registered claim sites that have gone silent.  Unless there is known Claim Jumper or Pirate activity nearby, the Patrol schedules a visit by one of their Cruisers as soon as it can--but there are only twenty Cruisers in the entire Patrol Fleet, to cover the entire Belt.  So the Patrol posts the information publicly, hoping it'll be friends of the missing who go looking, rather than the bad guys.  Usually works out that way."

"Usually."
This message was last edited by the player at 07:43, Tue 13 Nov 2018.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 327 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Tue 13 Nov 2018
at 08:07
  • msg #13

Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik chuckled slightly.  She never seemed to be one to stand on too much protocol.  The diminutive ex-Imperial Navy spacer probably did know a little something about standard operating procedures and etiquette (like she knew a little bit about everything it seemed), but the auburn-haired navigator never seemed to all that comfortable with it.

Still, the idea of the corporation made perfect sense.  She liked Walter reasoning and nodded when he proposed it, acknowledging her backing of the general idea.  "There's been enough turnover," Shar noted, "that we need to do something."  Life on the frontier had never been that stable, and this one way to protect against some of that instability.

She smiled slightly the banter between Captain and his XO, before noting off-hand, "The board is likely going to have to travel with us, if we have them.  Some decisions can't wait that long for arbitration."  The state of interstellar communication being what it was; messages travelled between systems no faster than the ships which carried people.  Which seemed her roundabout way of agreeing with Vonon that the crew might have to be the board.  Which led directly back to the whole ship meetings thing.

As for the specifics of Cassandra's Belt.  Well, Sharik knew that to her vargr friend's stomping ground.  So, she had nothing more to add there.  Except perhaps where the best watering holes might be.  That she had a fair bit of experience with.  As well as, knowing where the worst dives were as well...
Samantha Kilgore
player, 447 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Tue 13 Nov 2018
at 08:30
  • msg #14

Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam chipped in a s well "I think what your saying Walters now makes more sense - wind up the old structure and start a new one. And what Vonun says makes sense as well - but there will need to be positions for those of us who chip in but don't get a key position."

Pondering a second she added "As for what we do - your right Walter. Just trade would get old for me real quick. I'll need something a bit more challenging to keep me on form. But we can take less profitable, but more interesting jobs if we do trade as well. I think we should just advertise ourselves as problem solvers, and see what sort of problems we attract...."
Valeska Brandenberg
player, 70 posts
Tue 13 Nov 2018
at 16:50
  • msg #15

Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Yeah, that sounds good," Valeska adds. "Before we start 'advertising', though, we'd better come up with some ground rules as to what kind of problems we're willing to solve."

"Oh, I know. We'll have to decide on a case-by-case basis, but there's probably still a few things we won't do, right? Rebellions, revolutions, espionage... obviously assassinations, although there are always a few people you want to strangle."

"Anything else that you can think of? And I suppose it goes without saying that we're not going to break the law to solve a problem, right? At least, not very often."

"So. It seems like we're all in agreement. Whose got the legal expertise to do this? Can the computer do the incorporation paperwork? It'll just get downloaded into the grid when we reach Cassandra."
Kheaiftouaw
player, 591 posts
Aslan outcast
Wed 14 Nov 2018
at 00:06
  • msg #16

Destination: Cassandra Belt

Leaning back and letting out a sigh Khea responds to Vonon
"So you basically want to continue to what we already have been doing, just with a more fancy name?

Ah, well. If you insist. Inscribing the hull shouldn't be that expensive and the Longshot really does need a better look after all. But can we at least select a shipyard on an planet with an actually breathable atmosphere and not another dustbowl? Who knows how long we need to wait for the inscribing to finish."
Walter Zeller
player, 484 posts
Merchant/Noble
Wed 14 Nov 2018
at 02:11
  • msg #17

Destination: Cassandra Belt

Walter smiled as the group talked about the plan.  "I agree that we should have some ground rules as to what we will do but for the time being, we will need to table that motion until we form the corporation and select a board. First things first, I presented the motion for the payout so that it can be distributed to the 12 of us that had a hand in the recovery of the scout ship and dealing with the alien vessel. So the motion presented is to pay everyone directly involved 2.75 million per person. If the motion fails to pass, then all assets will be distributed evenly between the ten of us that are part of the company. With that in mind, as three members of the company are no longer here, I will note it as three NO votes. All in favor of the motion?" he asked after the motion was seconded.

"Aye" Walter said, holding up a hand.

OOC. Unless someone objects, in order to speed things up we can cut to forming the corporation.

"All right, the company is officially closed and all former claims to the Longshot are null and void. Everyone has received 2.75 Mcr and the shareholders in the former company each received 1,837,680 credits in their accounts, and if I might add, an amazing return on your million credit investment. With that done, I open the floor to nominations for the position of Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer for the corporation that will do business as Longshot Enterprises."
Serge Baklanov
player, 55 posts
Marine/Scout
Wed 14 Nov 2018
at 14:32
  • msg #18

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Walter Zeller:
"With that done, I open the floor to nominations for the position of Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer for the corporation that will do business as Longshot Enterprises."


- If you ask me too, then I think I am too new in the team to make an informed decision so I simply trust to Vonon's judgment and support his offer.
- I would like to make a proposition, though. Not a military style which I got used to, but still I heard that some rogue traders have a tradition: while most routine decisions are trusted to senior officers, still every crew member can initiate a universal voting on the matter he considers important enough, and the voting result overrides previous decisions.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 328 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Wed 14 Nov 2018
at 19:13
  • msg #19

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

When Valeska asked about any legal expertise, Sharik shrugged, "I believe that much, if not all, of our in-house expertise has left the house.  The Count and our former Cook had some training."  She glanced in the direction of Walter not wanting to step on any toes, "But I, myself, only have enough knowledge to know that I don't have any knowledge.  And only a modicum of experience to know that I can get into Trouble™"  It is weird how the diminutive operative can get those trademark symbols to magically appear.

Shar voted for the Walter's motion to rework the business end of the venture; she certainly didn't want to do the paperwork.  Likely, the ex-corporate operative could muddle through, but it certainly wasn't her forte.

As for officers and such, Sharik shrugged and then tacked onto Serge's notion, "I suspect that crew buy-in is necessary no matter what decisions are made."  Her tone implied a simple matter-of-factness on the topic as she continued, "No matter who the officers are and with them on-board ... a crew this small and a single ship."  She gave another shrug, "An open door policy is almost a requirement."

"I am fine with Vonon's proposed corporate officer roster.  We can make term limits, if that makes things more equitable." she noted, given that the positions weren't purely ceremonial or anything.
 Actually, they might be mostly more paperwork - at least, Secretary would be she suspected; so, she added simply, "Or if someone else wants the corporate Secretary job, I am more than willing to cede it..."
Lucky Seven
NPC, 31 posts
Phantom Pilot
Asteroid Jockey
Wed 14 Nov 2018
at 20:05
  • msg #20

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

>>>>> At Cassandra Belt, on Rockport, in the Dock of the Bay cantina...


There just weren't many activities available in an asteroid belt. VR 'holo-decks' only went so far. Bars were the only reasonable alternative. Besides the drinking, there were always new people stopping in. People meant information. Stories. Tall tales. And jobs.

She was sitting at the bar in the Dock of the Bay working on her fifth (or was it sixth) mojito when she heard a name mentioned that she... recognized. Apparently this other woman at the bar had been checking the incoming crew manifests. Lucky had stopped doing that about 20 years ago... or maybe it was just 20 days ago. Sometimes it was easy to lose track of time.

"Pardon me, miss," she said to Inderpal, "did I hear you say Sharik Kaagira? Do you know her?"

She only knew Sharik by reputation through the pipeline, but she knew she'd been crew on the Longshot... at least, until recently.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 592 posts
Aslan outcast
Wed 14 Nov 2018
at 23:18
  • msg #21

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

>>>>> Longshot Business meeting

Sound like you want to give everyone a title. Ah well. I can take over the treasury. For now that only means keeping the ship stocked and it wouldn't be the first time I do that.

>>>>> Cassandra docking port

Having pondered if she should wear her vacc suit all the time and only decided against it on account of it being so heavy Khea steps off the ship with a grim face

This is worse than a dust ball. I hope you don't intend to refit the ship here unless you get a big discount.

OOC: Should we move the discussion about the company to another thread to keep the story running here?
Valeska Brandenberg
player, 71 posts
Thu 22 Nov 2018
at 05:20
  • msg #22

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"It's not as bad as it looks, Khea," Valeska told the Aslan. "About the only difference is going to be cost... a good 50% or more higher here because there's no local industry--it's all imported."

"Time might also be an issue; it's a rather busy system."

"We definitely should look around. If we don't like the price or the time or even the item, we don't have to buy it."
Inderpal Kumar
player, 12 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Thu 22 Nov 2018
at 11:16
  • msg #23

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Lucky Seven:
>>>>> At Cassandra Belt, on Rockport, in the Dock of the Bay cantina...


There just weren't many activities available in an asteroid belt. VR 'holo-decks' only went so far. Bars were the only reasonable alternative. Besides the drinking, there were always new people stopping in. People meant information. Stories. Tall tales. And jobs.

She was sitting at the bar in the Dock of the Bay working on her fifth (or was it sixth) mojito when she heard a name mentioned that she... recognized. Apparently this other woman at the bar had been checking the incoming crew manifests. Lucky had stopped doing that about 20 years ago... or maybe it was just 20 days ago. Sometimes it was easy to lose track of time.

"Pardon me, miss," she said to Inderpal, "did I hear you say Sharik Kaagira? Do you know her?"

She only knew Sharik by reputation through the pipeline, but she knew she'd been crew on the Longshot... at least, until recently.


Inderpal turned to the woman who had just spoken the name of Sharik Kaagira.

"Yes, I know her. We went to a lot of parties together when I was a trainee diplomat. Long time ago, but she's the kind of woman you don't forget in a hurry. Looks much younger than she is. Really good at Trivial Pursuit. Do you know her? What is she doing now?

One thing that she'd learned that a diplomat was often an unofficial spy and that good conversation at a party could get you vital intelligence. Not that this was a party. No canapés.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:17, Thu 22 Nov 2018.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 595 posts
Aslan outcast
Sat 24 Nov 2018
at 19:19
  • msg #24

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Valeska Brandenberg (msg # 22):

Shocked Khea replies
That is completely unacceptable. Why should we pay more than half of what the modifications are worth here when we can simply skip to the next system? They would have to lower the price as compensation for having to wait for weeks in this tin cans without fresh air and gravity for the modifications to complete.

Silently to herself:
Why can't we stop at planets with actual breathable atmospheres and instead always end up in some form of enclosed dome or worse.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 406 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sun 25 Nov 2018
at 02:58
  • msg #25

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Kheaiftouaw (msg # 24):

"Well, living environment aside, the shipyard here at Rockport has the highest level of technology available for almost ten parsecs." Vonon replies to Khea, "We'd have to cross over well into Imperium Space to get to anything even comparable.  Or head coreward into the Principality of Caledonia, whose tech-base is equal to what we have here at Cassandra's Belt, for the most part.  But, as you say, you could walk out under an open sky there.  Probably."

"Rockport's not so bad!  The entire asteroid is outfitted with artificial gravity, we have domed parks on the surface.  Most of the upper tunnels are spacious, well-lit and well ventilated--at least you don't have to pay any Air Taxes, here!"

"I only left because I got sick of the politics I got caught up in!  I was a Patrolman, dammit!  But when I got 'promoted' to a position here at Rockport, suddenly it was important to be seen as supporting one Command Officer or another, and picking the wrong dog in that fight could ruin your career!  After two years, I just couldn't take it anymore."
Lucky Seven
NPC, 32 posts
Phantom Pilot
Asteroid Jockey
Sun 25 Nov 2018
at 22:42
  • msg #26

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

>>>>> CONVERSATION WITH INDERPAL...


"I can honestly say I never heard anyone describe her in terms of 'parties', Lucky replies to Inderpal.

"Since I noticed you were looking at incoming ship rosters and then you spoke her name out loud, I'd guess she was aboard one of those ships arriving. While she could be a passenger, I'd say she was more likely to be one of the crew."

"If you're looking for a reunion with her, you should call her on the comms. Name and ship is enough to get it forwarded to her."

"Oh, and my name is Lucky Seven. Mom thought naming me Lucky would make me lucky. It doesn't seem to have made me any more lucky than anyone else, though."
Inderpal Kumar
player, 13 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Mon 26 Nov 2018
at 14:23
  • msg #27

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Lucky Seven:
>>>>> CONVERSATION WITH INDERPAL...


"I can honestly say I never heard anyone describe her in terms of 'parties', Lucky replies to Inderpal.

"Since I noticed you were looking at incoming ship rosters and then you spoke her name out loud, I'd guess she was aboard one of those ships arriving. While she could be a passenger, I'd say she was more likely to be one of the crew."

"If you're looking for a reunion with her, you should call her on the comms. Name and ship is enough to get it forwarded to her."

"Oh, and my name is Lucky Seven. Mom thought naming me Lucky would make me lucky. It doesn't seem to have made me any more lucky than anyone else, though."


"I'm a former diplomat. I describe everyone in terms of parties. I'll give her a call once she's a bit closer."

She looked at the roster to see if there was a booked arrival time.

"My name is Inderpal. Inderpal Kumar."

She looked at the woman to determine how drunk she was.
StarMaster
GM, 894 posts
Mon 26 Nov 2018
at 19:48
  • msg #28

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Lucky doesn't appear to be drunk at all though she does have the appearance of a Free Spirit.

About half of the asteroid has been built up, extended and converted to the space station. There's not enough room to actually build full drydocks and docking facilities, so docks have been built outward. The ships dock there along the gantry tubes. One exits the ship into the docking tube and then moves through it to the base. The tubes have no gravity in them, so you have to freefall maneuver along them into the base.

The Longshot will dock in about 10 minutes.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 14 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Tue 27 Nov 2018
at 11:06
  • msg #29

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

StarMaster:
Lucky doesn't appear to be drunk at all though she does have the appearance of a Free Spirit.

About half of the asteroid has been built up, extended and converted to the space station. There's not enough room to actually build full drydocks and docking facilities, so docks have been built outward. The ships dock there along the gantry tubes. One exits the ship into the docking tube and then moves through it to the base. The tubes have no gravity in them, so you have to freefall maneuver along them into the base.

The Longshot will dock in about 10 minutes.


"Right then. Thanks. I'd better go and make a call."

Inderpal got up from her seat, paid her bill and then walked out of the bar, looking for somewhere halfway private to make a telephone call. She wasn't going to use a toilet for this purpose unless it was absolute necessary. It just wasn't refined.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 597 posts
Aslan outcast
Thu 29 Nov 2018
at 23:25
  • msg #30

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Vonon Ronkunu (msg # 25):

It is still just an asteroid with a tiny dome and the vacuum on the outside.
Valeska Brandenberg
player, 73 posts
Fri 30 Nov 2018
at 06:00
  • msg #31

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"It depends on how you define 'tiny', Khea," Valeska says. "Half the asteroid has been hollowed out with tunnels and rooms and such. There's a lot of build up on the surface as well."

"But, yeah, if you were hoping to go running through a crystal blue Valerian stream, not gonna happen here."
Samantha Kilgore
player, 449 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Fri 30 Nov 2018
at 08:49
  • msg #32

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam piped up "Anywhere thats bigger than the inside of this ship has got to be a good start. But it wouldn't hurt to actually work in the air for once. Perhaps we can persuade Walter to look into a cargo run to a Garden planet?"
StarMaster
GM, 896 posts
Thu 13 Dec 2018
at 03:20
  • msg #33

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

The Longshot docks at the space station. It almost seems odd that there's no downport. It's docked at space stations before but, except for Outpost, there was always somewhere else to go. Going to one of the other space stations in the Belt is sort of an option, but they'd be even smaller.
Serge Baklanov
player, 58 posts
Marine/Scout
Thu 13 Dec 2018
at 10:58
  • msg #34

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to StarMaster (msg # 33):

OOC: Look at PM pls.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 598 posts
Aslan outcast
Sat 15 Dec 2018
at 00:09
  • msg #35

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"So not even a dome. That gets better and better"
Inderpal Kumar
player, 15 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sat 15 Dec 2018
at 14:40
  • msg #36

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

StarMaster:
The Longshot docks at the space station. It almost seems odd that there's no downport. It's docked at space stations before but, except for Outpost, there was always somewhere else to go. Going to one of the other space stations in the Belt is sort of an option, but they'd be even smaller.



Inderpal placed the call to Sharik Kaagira, hoping that she would be able to get a voice connection. If not, she would leave a voicemail asking for her to call back.
Serge Baklanov
player, 59 posts
Marine/Scout
Mon 17 Dec 2018
at 08:59
  • msg #37

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

- How long are we going to stay here? - Serge asked Walter. - I'd like to get a landing card for a day or two.
Walter Zeller
player, 488 posts
Merchant/Noble
Mon 17 Dec 2018
at 10:46
  • msg #38

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

As the Longshot docked, Walter started to connect to Cassandra's Commercial network to start facilitating trade. "Lets prepare for a week here in order to sell the cargo and get some more. If you want to take some time, arrange it with the XO so that we are properly staffed in case something comes up."  he said.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 334 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Wed 19 Dec 2018
at 06:01
  • msg #39

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik hummed a light, airy tune - a four part fugue - composed by an ancient Solomani composer as she sat at the navigator’s console.  She didn’t have much to do once the course to station and their assigned berth had been plotted.  Still, she leaned back in her chair, feeling the snug comfort of her five-point harness around her torso while she watched the Longshot track along the projected course on the tactical overlay on the main display.  The diminutive navigator always enjoyed both the theoretical and practical aspects of astrogation; and she never tired of seeing a starship pilot work their magic.  Shar would be the first to admit that Sam was a good pilot and that she was a joy to watch.

As she sat there, the lights of the various displays dancing across her face, Sharik felt her earpiece linked to her p-comm (as well as her other personal electronics) vibrate.  She glanced over at Walter talking to Serge about the duty roster, knowing that somehow that task was likely to be delegated to their corporate secretary by the XO.  Her, the corporate secretary.  Her vargr friend, the XO.  She thought about letting the call get shunted to voicemail; especially since caller ID flagged the source as ‘Unknown’.

But then her better instincts got a hold of her - as well as her innate curiosity.  The auburn-haired ex-operative brushed an errant lock of hair aside and then tapped her earbud.  “This is Kaagira. her light contralto sounded into the microphone, her tone was casual and a touch languid, “How can I help you?”
Inderpal Kumar
player, 16 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Wed 19 Dec 2018
at 20:28
  • msg #40

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

The voice of Inderpal Kumar came over the over end, trying to sound posh and enthusiastic at the same time.

Hello, Sharik! It's Inderpal Kumar! I don't know if you remember me, but I certainly remember some of the elegant parties that we both attended when I was a diplomat. I noticed that your vessel has arrived and I hope you would be able to bestow a favour that I will deeply appreciate.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 335 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Wed 19 Dec 2018
at 22:40
  • msg #41

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Indy!  Dah-ling...." Sharik drawled, letting the moment draw out as she felt the memories of parties past wash over her.  The cosmopolitan socialite had to stifle a giggle, in order to maintain her composure and prompt her friend, "How are you, my dear?  And what the hell are you doing here on C-Belt?"

Her ears perked up at the mention of a favor.  "Of course ..." Shar cooed amicably, "I'm famished.  So, pick a restaurant and we'll talk."  There was little need to discuss such things over a commlink; not when food and drink could get involved.  A light smile touched her burgundy lips as Sharik thought about what she knew of Ms. Kumar.  It would be nice to catch up as had been a while since they'd last seen each other.  Business should never take precedence over friendship.  Not in this day and age.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 18 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sun 23 Dec 2018
at 15:08
  • msg #42

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

There was a brief pause.

"Well... I know an excellent pasta restaurant. Place called Cornelli's Fine Dining in the Lavender Inn hotel. They don't just do pasta, but the tagliatelle is pretty excellent, I find. I'll meet you in an hour and we can catch-up, all right, darling?"

Inderpal had chosen a medium-level restaurant; while she should afford a much more expensive affair with her savings, she didn't want to make Sharik feel out of place and making herself look too well-to-do would work against her getting a job. She did want to get off this station after all.
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 267 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Fri 28 Dec 2018
at 17:43
  • msg #43

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Evelyn and I got the first shift covered," Pablo told Walter.

"She's not much of a social butterfly, if catch my drift. Had some buddies in the corps that wound up in the same dark place. She'll be okay; it just may take some time."

"We'll sit the Longshot for the first day. Maybe we can then trade off with Khea and Valeska. After that, we'll see."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 411 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sat 29 Dec 2018
at 03:17
  • msg #44

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Pablo Esteban Ryzov (msg # 43):

     Even though the Longshot had finished docking procedures and Vonon could leave the ship, now, he continued to sit in the weapons station seat and fret.

     Vonon had been excited to be returning to Cassandra's Belt, even to Rockhome--he'd been outsystem for months and this was home.  He had friends here, people he'd like to see and people who'd like to see him.  But he'd also left under a cloud, resigning his Commission, citing political infighting of intolerable levels among the Patrol Officer Corps stationed at Rockhome--he had enemies here.  And then, of course, there was...his Family.

     ~If GranDam hears I was at Rockhome and didn't swing by to visit,~ Vonon thinks to himself, ~the old battlehound will disconnect herself from her geriatric support pod and hunt me down, then give me the beating of my life--even if she is over one hundred years old!~

     Vonon continues to dither...
Samantha Kilgore
player, 451 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Tue 1 Jan 2019
at 21:34
  • msg #45

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

The piloting in and docking was done mainly on auto, but Sam always sat in the seat - just in case, she told herself, but more honestly - it gave her something to do.

After the ship was safely touched down, she chcked and shut down the flight systems, reporting in to Walter "All systems ok for launch - so shes's ready when we are."

Swivelling her seat round, she noticed Vonun. "Fancy a beer V? Youre buying!" As she spoke, Sam stood up and stretched a little, waiting for his reply.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 336 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Wed 2 Jan 2019
at 20:06
  • msg #46

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Sounds perfect, hon." the cosmopolitan socialite responded brightly, smiling even though she knew that Indy couldn't see her.  Her brain was already running through her mental checklist.  She needed to finish up here - but that was mostly kicking off the preliminary calculations their next potential jump destinations; starting those should only take a couple of minutes.  Plus, the duty roster, but that could wait, since Pablo had volunteered himself and Evelyn for the time being.

The more pressing question might be what to wear.  Now, Sharik had never counted herself as a clothes-hound or a fashionista, but a girl had to have her standards.  Locking up her session, the diminuitive navigator pushed back from her console and unclipped from her harness once the Longshot was properly berthed.  Standing for a moment, she checked the pleats on her vacc suit and then trapsed off to her quarters with a spring in her step.  Along the way she settled on her green coveralls; it was fairly understated and reasonably workman-like.  You know, not too showy.  But she did decide to accent it with some silver hoop motif earrings, bracelets, a necklace, and belt.  After a quick (well, reasonably quick) shower, Shar pulled on her outfit including a faux-groat leather bolero jacket and stopped to look in the mirror for a moment to appraise her profile and silouhette.

Sharik wondered if a shopping trip for clothes afterwards might be in order; it seemed that there was a bit of disposable cash in her pocket that was burning a hole.  Or the youthful socialite was simply into window shopping and/or retail therapy.

A second glance at the lens of her HUD display told her that the astrogation calculations were still progressing normally, as she trotted down the corridor.  Poking her head into the bridge, the auburn-haired navigator let those still on station know that she heading into the station.  "Hot date at Cornelli's." Shar quipped since Indy definitely counted as 'hot'; she glanced to see if Vo was still at his console and if her vargr friend had any opinion on the venue as Cassandra's Belt was his ol' stomping ground.  It'd been a while since she'd been at the C-belt Highport, way before Cornelli's had even existed.  Still, Vonon might have some experience with it; he'd definitely been here more recently than her.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 20 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Wed 2 Jan 2019
at 20:42
  • msg #47

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

After finishing the call, Inderpal Kumar found her way back to her accommodation - a hotel room on the upper middle end of the scale. She popped into the shower and changed into a cream jacket with matching trousers, combined with a a blue ruffled shirt. She also put on her pearl button earrings and gave her eyebrows a bit of a tidy up.

Then she called ahead to make sure there was a table free at the restaurant, preferably in a booth.
Walter Zeller
player, 489 posts
Merchant/Noble
Thu 3 Jan 2019
at 01:54
  • msg #48

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Listening to the crew as they made plans, Walter was already making his own . "First on my agenda is to get the cargo sold so expect that to be sorted out shortly Vonon. You can find me at the TAS hotel and I would like the crew to be my guests for dinner before we depart from here. Once we get the cargo dealt with, I would like to see if we can do some modifications to the Longshot before we head back out," he said to Vonon.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 412 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Thu 3 Jan 2019
at 05:25
  • msg #49

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Samantha Kilgore:
Swivelling her seat round, she noticed Vonun. "Fancy a beer V? Youre buying!" As she spoke, Sam stood up and stretched a little, waiting for his reply.


     Vonon, seeming distracted, took a moment to respond, "Urr...sure.  Yeah, that sounds good, Sam.  I know just the place.  I just...uh, I just have to make a comm-call, first."

Walter Zeller:
Listening to the crew as they made plans, Walter was already making his own . "First on my agenda is to get the cargo sold so expect that to be sorted out shortly Vonon. You can find me at the TAS hotel and I would like the crew to be my guests for dinner before we depart from here. Once we get the cargo dealt with, I would like to see if we can do some modifications to the Longshot before we head back out," he said to Vonon.


     "I recall the names of some of the better Trade Houses--the legitimate ones that dealt with free traders, that is--but I never had any direct dealings with any of them.  I can give you that list.  As for modifications, there are a few names I remember at the yard--nobody who owes me any favors or anything, just a few acquaintances I could say hello to, share a cup of kaff with, that sort of thing--but I think I can count on them for info about the yard, when the time comes."
Samantha Kilgore
player, 452 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Thu 3 Jan 2019
at 12:39
  • msg #50

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam grinned at V "looking up an old flame huh?" she winked at him "Well if you need to ditch me for a hot date, I'll not be offended. I'm gonna use the fresher and then I'll be ready to head, so let me know in say 20 mins if we're good?"

Sam headed off without waiting for an answer
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 413 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Fri 4 Jan 2019
at 03:53
  • msg #51

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Samantha Kilgore (msg # 50):

"Old Flame?" Vonon calls after Sam, as she leaves the Bridge, "I wish!"
Kheaiftouaw
player, 599 posts
Aslan outcast
Fri 4 Jan 2019
at 23:13
  • msg #52

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

As everyone is darting out of the ship as soon as it docker Khea was left alone on the Long Shot.
Not having any immediate plans she made sure that everything was locked down tight and then also left, first to find the largest space available on this asteroid outpost to relax, it won't come close to a real open sky but it certainly won't be as cramped as the ship, and then check out the shipyard to see what work they do there.
Samantha Kilgore
player, 453 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Sun 6 Jan 2019
at 13:11
  • msg #53

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam took about 10 mins in the fresher, and went back to her room for a bit before coming back on the bridge to find V. She was still dressed in her normal fashion, though the clothes had obviously been changed to cleaner versions as well.

"So, gonna buy a girl a drink, V?"

ooc
How standard is this TU? I mean if I look up codes for this rock online can we rel y on them?
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 415 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sun 6 Jan 2019
at 16:07
  • msg #54

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Samantha Kilgore (msg # 53):

OOC: Pssst!  Sam, goto TAS Too
StarMaster
GM, 898 posts
Mon 7 Jan 2019
at 01:08
  • msg #55

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Khea soon realized that Pablo and Evelyn were still on the ship, covering the station shift just on general principles and for an added layer of security.


At Cornelli's, Indy arrives first and sits in the reserved booth. The place isn't particularly busy, but then it's an odd time of day. Ships arrive at all hours, and nearly everyone operates on his own time schedule.

((OOC: The standard Traveller stats are mostly what I go by. It's the smaller details that I get to play with.))
Valeska Brandenberg
player, 74 posts
Wed 9 Jan 2019
at 23:54
  • msg #56

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Of those going ashore, Valeska was probably the last to leave. She'd been doing some research online about what was interesting, unique or dangerous about Cassandra Belt, as all of those things represented opportunities. What kind of opportunities she couldn't quite say, but she'd know one when she saw it.

She didn't see anything wrong with all the crew going about their own business; after all, they'd just spent a week all crammed together in the ship. Yeah, it was a rather large ship in that sense, but it was the principle of the thing. Sometimes, you just needed to see a new face.

That was what she was doing. She just wanted to get a sense of humanity... whatever the species. She'd been to a Vargr world once. Wasn't much humanity there. Ha. It meant other things these days.

She didn't know where she was going, so she couldn't let anyone know, but she had her comm with her.

Once out amid the hustle and bustle of the starport, she decided to go to one of the bars she'd found online--Cosmos.

It was a short walk as it catered to spacers. Or did it cater to spacers because it was a short walk? Whatever.

She walked in, took a seat at the bar and ordered a mojito.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 416 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Thu 10 Jan 2019
at 06:37
  • msg #57

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Valeska Brandenberg (msg # 56):

OOC:  Okay, okay, okay...Vonon has dragged his feet enough, already...


   In his quarters, Vonon has finished dressing, and is looking at himself in the cabin's viewscreen--but he's barely noticing how well his pale lavender shirt is complementing the candy-apple red trousers he's wearing over his shiny black space-boots.  His mind is on the task he must perform next.

   Resolving himself to just do it, Vonon straightens the set of his shirt, then addresses the mirrored viewscreen,

   "Computer.  Access local communications network.  Establish connection with civilian commset Alpha-Zed-Gamma-Two-Two-Six-four-One-Nine-Four.  Caller ID is Vonon Ronkunu.  Switch the connection to this terminal."

   A moment later the reflection in the mirror is replaced by a full screen image of the logo for the local Directorate of Communications and the words 'Placing call...Please wait', accompanied by a pleasant electronic ringing tone.  After about ten seconds there is a clicking sound, and the Directorate logo changes to a gray screen with the word 'Connected' in the center.

   [COMS>>>] "Ha-ha, very funny.  Now tell me your real name--this isn't a Pack you want to screw with!" demanded a voice with the same 'growly' quality as Vonon's own, yet still having a feminine quality.

   "No joke, it's me, Zelthae." Vonon responded, "I'm here on Rockhome and wanted to inform Mother."

   The gray screen disappeared and was replaced with the image of a young adult female Vargr with light brown fur, a stripe of golden fur starting abouve her left eye and proceeding up and over her head, with another swath of golden fur under her right eye.  She was wearing a gold-colored pull-over that left her light brown fur-covered shoulders exposed.

   [COMS>>>] "Well Space Me!  Vo, is that you?" the younger Vargr asked, an expression of incredulity on her face, "Wow, you look old--how come you look so old?  It's only been eighteen months!  You have a Jump Mishap or something?  Wow, you look--"

   "Enough, Zelthae, please.  Just inform Mother that I am on Rockhome for a short while, and that I called, so that nobody else would surprise her with the data.  Thank you." Vonon said, and reached for a nearby wall-mounted command console.

   "What!?  No--Wait!  Vo!" Zelthae said, as Vonon manually cut the connection.

   Turning, Vonon grabbed his belt from off his bed, only his comm and his sheathed blade hanging from it--the blade, having been made here at Rockport, was exactly one centimeter short of being illegal--and strapped it on.  Then he grabbed his old black Patrol uniform jacket and cap (both sans any Patrol markings), and headed out to meet Samantha.
Samantha Kilgore
player, 454 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Thu 10 Jan 2019
at 08:10
  • msg #58

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam was waiting for V in the rec area. As he came down the hall she gave a low whistle.

"Looking hot V, are you sure you don't have a date?" she laughed and stood up.

"I don't recall ever having been to this place before, wheres all the fun at?"
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 417 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Thu 10 Jan 2019
at 09:51
  • msg #59

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Samantha Kilgore (msg # 58):

   Vonon shrugs into his black jacket, "It's a waypoint for the Imperial Navy on their way to Outpost." Vonon responded.

   "The place used to be run by Drakaar Minerals, but they ran the place like a slave camp--mistreated the workers, provided substandard everything.  The miners eventually revolted and gained independence.  The Imperium thought that was a pretty good idea, so when Drakaar Minerals came back with more force to take the place with, a couple of Imperial Frontier Fleet Cruisers happened to be here, refueling."

   "The Imperials wanted to know what Drakaar was doing here with all that firepower, Drakaar said that this was their system and they were here to take it back from criminal elements.  The Council of Ten denied any criminal activity, then declared our independence."

   "The Drakaar Force Commander refused to acknowledge the declaration and demanded the immediate surrender of Rockport.  The Imperial Commander said that that wasn't going to happen.  Drakaar then said the Imperials were out of their jurisdiction, and the Imperial Commander invited the Drakaar Commander to bring his ships just a little closer and they could test that theory together."

   Vonon smiles, "You have to love those Imperial Frontier Fleet Captains.  So, since then we've been an Independent System, but that's mostly just pride and Treaty shenanigans.  We realize our need for a close relationship with the Imperium, and when all the dickering is over and Outpost gets declared an Imperial Colony, Cassandra will probably follow suit."

  "But until then we provide a waystation into the central Deep for the Imperial Navy--an excellent starport facility and supply base--and the Imperium keeps us supplied with advanced technology and materials.  It's a nice, symbiotic relationship.  And unless the Principality of Caledon ever officially joins the Imperium, we'll always be needed, here."

   "So what I'm saying is--Rockport is up to Imperial standards!  If you're used to having it back home, we likely have it here.  So name your pleasure!  Shows or sims, we got 'em--though probably a year behind what you're used to.  Or booze--our bars line up with anything in the Imperium.  Libraries or Auto-Instructors--heck, we're a community of independent, usually family-oriented mining operations, we're up to our necks with home-based Auto-Instructors."

   "And, ur, I hope I don't need to remind you that, while outwardly looking rather tame--" Vonon places his hand on his chest in humility, "--thanks in no small part to an efficient law enforcement service--we are still a bunch of rockhoppers, here.  We have, ur, fully legal and *ahem* medically certified Companion Services, should you feel the need."

   "The only thing I can't recommend is pharmaceutical abuse.  Oh, we have some of the more tame recreational stuff, sure, but the hard shit is extremely illegal.  Like zero tolerance.  We come down hard on that, here.  As in, blow the airlock out to vacuum and then produce the warrant, intolerant."
Samantha Kilgore
player, 455 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Thu 10 Jan 2019
at 13:27
  • msg #60

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Taking Vonuns arm, Sam starts walking towards the airlock.

"Thats a pretty full run down, you must have got around a bit as a youngster. I'm ex-Space Patrol, so we'll keep within the law - at first at least. But a drink would be good. So take me to the booze, sir!"
Inderpal Kumar
player, 22 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Thu 10 Jan 2019
at 20:42
  • msg #61

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

StarMaster:
Khea soon realized that Pablo and Evelyn were still on the ship, covering the station shift just on general principles and for an added layer of security.


At Cornelli's, Indy arrives first and sits in the reserved booth. The place isn't particularly busy, but then it's an odd time of day. Ships arrive at all hours, and nearly everyone operates on his own time schedule.

((OOC: The standard Traveller stats are mostly what I go by. It's the smaller details that I get to play with.))


Inderpal took a seat that was facing the door so that she could see Sharik when she arrived. She took a look at the menu and thought about what she might order; there was a broad selection of human and non-human food available, but it was all reliable stuff. Nothing too esoteric or 'risky'; she really wasn't into super spicy stuff, partly because of the large quantity of water you needed after the fact.

She asked for a bottle of mineral water for the table and the bread basket to start off with.
Walter Zeller
player, 492 posts
Merchant/Noble
Fri 11 Jan 2019
at 16:07
  • msg #62

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Walter arrived at the TAS hotel and checked in, his first (semi) vacation since leaving Grendal. Once settled in, he took care of making connections in order to unload the cargo.  Word traveled fast through the star port at Cassandra he was there as merchants tried to make themselves scarce. Deals were hard to find.


Ugh, market is saturated. Sell at 95% for the Luxury Consumables and Advanced Manufactured Goods. 100% for the basic consumables. Will have to look up the filters as i do not remember what they fell under and I need to locate Book 5.
10:50, Today: Walter Zeller rolled 9 using 2d6+5 with rolls of 2,2.  sell cargo.
10:49, Today: Walter Zeller rolled 8 using 2d6+5 with rolls of 1,2.  Finding a buyer.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 600 posts
Aslan outcast
Sun 13 Jan 2019
at 01:48
  • msg #63

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Any plans Khea had about her visit to the station gradually vanish as soon as she enters the station.
Sure, she visits the dockyard, but it is not as if the berths are open to the public so there isn't really anything to see there. She does look at display about the work being done there, but does not really pay attention.

Instead she sets of to simply walk. After weeks of being confined to a small ship she just needs to stretch her legs, even if it is just on a station and not an actual planet. One good thing about humaniti station was that one could go where you want without constantly watching where clans set up their borders.

Soon though Kheas stomach started to grumble and she remembered one downside of humaniti stations. That it was nearly impossible to find good food there. Everywhere they insisted to put vegetables into it, and once you picked them all out there was hardly anything left to eat.

Walther has invited everyone to the TAS hotel for dinner. That won't happen for several days, maybe even weeks, but it would be a good place as any to start looking for actually edible food on this station and she had to get a room there anyway, so that was Kheas next destination.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 418 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sun 13 Jan 2019
at 06:06
  • msg #64

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Samantha Kilgore (msg # 60):
[ON THE WAY TO THE AIRLOCK]

    Vonon stops suddenly at Sam's mention of being ex-Space Patrol.

    "Dammit, that's right.  I'd forgotten..." Vonon mumbles, then sidetracks to one of the suit lockers near the airlock--where he removes the Blade and it's sheath from his belt and places them in the locker.

    "Pressurized environment, all personal weapons are illegal here." Vonon explains, returning to Sam's side, "Ownership of bladed weapons is allowed, but carrying any weapon inside pressurized zones is illegal.  Patrolmen on duty carry a variety of weapons, and off-duty Patrolmen are allowed to openly carry short-bladed weapons--like that one." Vonon nods toward the locker where he put his Blade.

    "I forgot, and put it on from force of habit.  If you're carrying--don't tell me." Vonon grins as they exit through the airlock.

    Once outside the airlock, Vonon pauses and takes a breath--inhaling deeply through his Vargr nose.  While Sam can smell over-recycled air and the light miasma of numerous bodies and machines all active in one place, with an overlay of the cuisines of five separate cultures, Vonon smells so much more.  He smells Home.

    "There's this place just down the other side of the docking area--" Vonon says, pulling his black service cap down low and then pulling up his jacket collar,

    "I probably shouldn't go there, there's too big a chance of finding trouble--but it's really the best workers bar on the station." Vonon says, pointing off to the right, "Everyone calls it 'The Filthy Cur', but the official name is 'Drakaar Central Security'."  Vonon shrugs his shoulders, as he starts walking down the port area, "It a local in-joke."
Serge Baklanov
player, 60 posts
Marine/Scout
Sun 13 Jan 2019
at 14:42
  • msg #65

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Vonon Ronkunu:
"Pressurized environment, all personal weapons are illegal here." Vonon explains, returning to Sam's side, "Ownership of bladed weapons is allowed, but carrying any weapon inside pressurized zones is illegal.


Serge's head appeared from the nearest door:
- Are stunners prohibited too?
Sharik Kaagira
player, 337 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Sun 13 Jan 2019
at 21:34
  • msg #66

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik trotted down the loading ramp for the Longshot as she acknowledged Walter’s invitiation with a simple text.  She, of course, was also a member of TAS; so, the diminutive socialite could check in at any time.  But she’d be hard pressed to turn down any social engagement; they were just too much fun.  Once, her connection to the station’s public communications link was established, Shar accessed a schematic of the station, marking the target restaurant as well as the TAS hostel on her copy of the map.  She then sent a spur of her agent spiraling outwards to mark any shopping areas of interest as well as any landmarks and reasonable routes and distances for later.

Checking her chronometer, the auburn-haired astrogator made sure that she wasn’t fashionably late, letting her integrated HUD prompt her for the optimal route to Cornelli’s via the Lavendar Inn.  Out of idle curiosity, Sharik also had her personal agent mark the locations too various diplomatic consulates, since she was meeting with Indy after all.  She pushed the pace slightly, when the five minute reminder sounded and she appeared to be seven minutes out.

Arriving at the restaurant slightly out of breath (but actually just on time), Sharik scanned the crowd for a familiar face.  Approaching the hostess after taking a moment to center herselfm, she waited to be seated even though the ex-corporate operative had already spotted her party in her peripheral vision.  Stopping one of the waitstaff briefly on the way to the table, Sharik made sure that grapefruit mimosas and a set of light canapés were en route.

Smiling as she approached, Sharik leaned over to give Inderpal a simple (i.e. only one kiss per cheek) faire la bise in greeting.  The cosmopolitan socialite held the young diplomat at arms’ length while giving her an appraising look.  Then pushing into the booth, she pulled the linen napkin on to her lap.  “Ms. Kumar, you are looking well.  And it is so good to see you.” she pronounced cheerily, grabbing the menu, “Tell me, what looks good?”. She had her own ideas as she perused - though on this rock, Shar had her doubts about what passed for seafood around here.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 419 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Mon 14 Jan 2019
at 05:27
  • msg #67

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Serge Baklanov (msg # 65):

[LEAVING THE LONGSHOT]

"Ruh?  Oh, Serge.  Well, technically, the answer is yes." Vonon responded to the Scout, "If you walk around carrying a 'holstered weapon' at your hip, you will attract attention to yourself--both from Patrolmen who want to know what kind of idiot you are for carrying it, as well as from rough-types looking to take it from you."

"As with any personal weapon, if you conceal it really well, then it's not illegal unless you get caught using it, right?  And if it's really a stunner, and it doesn't cause any damage to anyone or the immediate area where you use it, you'll probably just get hauled in front of a Magistrate, charged, fined, and then let go with a warning--though they'll likely impound your weapon."
Samantha Kilgore
player, 456 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Tue 15 Jan 2019
at 08:36
  • msg #68

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"What trouble would you find V? In the bar? Because I'll be honest I wanna unwind, not get involved in a bar brawl."
Serge Baklanov
player, 61 posts
Marine/Scout
Tue 15 Jan 2019
at 09:15
  • msg #69

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Serge made little account of proper dress for every possible occurrence, so he just left the ship being in his usual Scout uniform.
Before the dinner, though, he whisked here and there in-between on the way to the hotel, marking something in his data pad.
Serge was on time for the dinner.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 23 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Tue 15 Jan 2019
at 19:19
  • msg #70

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik Kaagira:
Sharik trotted down the loading ramp for the Longshot as she acknowledged Walter’s invitiation with a simple text.  She, of course, was also a member of TAS; so, the diminutive socialite could check in at any time.  But she’d be hard pressed to turn down any social engagement; they were just too much fun.  Once, her connection to the station’s public communications link was established, Shar accessed a schematic of the station, marking the target restaurant as well as the TAS hostel on her copy of the map.  She then sent a spur of her agent spiraling outwards to mark any shopping areas of interest as well as any landmarks and reasonable routes and distances for later.

Checking her chronometer, the auburn-haired astrogator made sure that she wasn’t fashionably late, letting her integrated HUD prompt her for the optimal route to Cornelli’s via the Lavendar Inn.  Out of idle curiosity, Sharik also had her personal agent mark the locations too various diplomatic consulates, since she was meeting with Indy after all.  She pushed the pace slightly, when the five minute reminder sounded and she appeared to be seven minutes out.

Arriving at the restaurant slightly out of breath (but actually just on time), Sharik scanned the crowd for a familiar face.  Approaching the hostess after taking a moment to center herselfm, she waited to be seated even though the ex-corporate operative had already spotted her party in her peripheral vision.  Stopping one of the waitstaff briefly on the way to the table, Sharik made sure that grapefruit mimosas and a set of light canapés were en route.

Smiling as she approached, Sharik leaned over to give Inderpal a simple (i.e. only one kiss per cheek) faire la bise in greeting.  The cosmopolitan socialite held the young diplomat at arms’ length while giving her an appraising look.  Then pushing into the booth, she pulled the linen napkin on to her lap.  “Ms. Kumar, you are looking well.  And it is so good to see you.” she pronounced cheerily, grabbing the menu, “Tell me, what looks good?”. She had her own ideas as she perused - though on this rock, Shar had her doubts about what passed for seafood around here.


Inderpal smiled and reached for her own napkin, placing it decorously on her lap.

"The chicken tikka masala looks very good. I've had it in the past. That said I'm going for the... cod and chips".

Inderpal saw the waiter and got his attention.

"What do you want to drink? Also, how have you been doing?"
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 421 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Thu 17 Jan 2019
at 05:01
  • msg #71

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Samantha Kilgore (msg # 68):

"I would hope nothing more than dirty looks, maybe some raised hackles." Vonon answers with a shrug--which also moves his cap a little more forward, hiding his eyes.

"But with Vargr you never know.  Sometime we throw a punch at our closest friends--just to make sure everyone understands the pecking order.  Right now I'm kinda low on that list, around here.  But don't worry, that's all Vargr social crap.  Nobody'll involve you unless you interfere..."

Vonon suddenly stops and turns on Sam, "So, if any Vargr start anything with me--Do. Not. Interfere.  Unless a weapon gets pulled.  Weapons are not socially acceptable--snarling, biting and scratching are all okay, but no weapons.  And if any Humans get involved, it's something more than just Vargr social customs."

Vonon starts walking again,

"And in case you haven't noticed, while my people are True Vargr, through and through, we have a lot more decorum than our cousins from The Extents."

"That's why I said it shouldn't be more than snarls and dirty looks.  I mean, The Filthy Cur is a Patrolman hang out--as much as they might resent me, they won't risk censure by starting a bar brawl, either."
Samantha Kilgore
player, 457 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Thu 17 Jan 2019
at 08:31
  • msg #72

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam nods at V "So leave you to get your ass kicked, unless someone pulls a weapon. Ok." They walk on a little before she adds "So why is your name mud around here? IF I can ask that"
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 422 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Thu 17 Jan 2019
at 10:47
  • msg #73

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Samantha Kilgore (msg # 72):

    "Whistle-blowing." Vonon growls in a low voice.

    "When I left the Patrol--Retired, it says on my records--I rather publicly made a number of statements about how things are run by the Powers-That-Be in the Patrol, here at Rockport.  That could have been forgiven, eventually, but I just had to take it further and provide documentation that, if it didn't outright prove what I had to say, at least indicated heavily the possibility I was correct."

    "Most of what I bitched about was stuff that, apparently, most folks took for granted--mostly because it couldn't be proven--but when I made public some internal Patrol documents, things were exposed to the public that couldn't be swept away.  I thought I was doing the right thing, I thought I was helping my community."

    "But, despite all the training, I just didn't fully understand the psychology of Asteroid Miners--Human Asteroid Miners.  When it came out in the News-Apps--all the things that I'd exposed that were wrong in Patrol High Command--people didn't ... really ... care."

    Vonon stops at a spot over-looking the bustling docks,

    "Sure, folks were angry about the bit of graft mentioned, and the mis-spent tax monies--but there was no outrage!  Everyone took that sort of behaviour by top officials for granted, and there was no surprise when it was exposed.  Within a week the Council of Ten came forward stating that they'd done an investigation and all guilty parties had been censured or charged with crimes.  The story was forgotten within a couple of days."

    "But in reality, nobody got more than a slap on the wrist--more for getting caught than for doing anything wrong.  I was cashiered, then most of my family and friends turned their backs on me."

    Vonon starts walking again, "That's not unusual behaviour among Vargr towards somebody who makes a major screw-up like I had.  What was surprising is that they acted like that at all, instead of trying to kill me!  Y'see, some of the documentation I made public I had taken from the files of a High Magistrate, here in Rockport--and the taking of those files was pretty much a betrayal of her trust, which we Vargr don't take lightly."

    Vonon again stops suddenly, turns and looks Sam in the eye,

    "Especially not when the High Magistrate I took the files from was my own mother."
Sharik Kaagira
player, 338 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Fri 18 Jan 2019
at 07:39
  • msg #74

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik smiled brightly at Indy when prompted about any libations.  She seemed to ponder for a pregnant moment, and then as if on cue, the grapefruit mimosas that she'd previously arranged for arrived.  "Well," the auburn-haired socialite feigned a touch of idle blase, "why don't we sip these while we figure out what to drink."  And she handed the tart bubbly-filled flute to her dining companion.

Taking a sip of her own glass, Shar proceeded to order full Italian spread: an antipasti sampling plate to start, then a capellini pomodoro pasta as her first plate.  After some hemming and hawing, she settled on a roasted groat loin on a bed of mushroom risotto for her second plate.  Then with a wink to Inderpal, Sharik proceeded to order two molten chocolate cakes with a raspberry coulis knowing that the flour-less cakes would require extra preparation time to be done correctly.

Finally done ordering, the cosmopolitan socialite turned her full attention to the young diplomatic courier.  "I am well." Shar noted casually, "You know, the usual.  Odd jobs: political intrigues, salvaging alien tech, rescuing damsels in distress.  That sort of thing."  Enticingly vague with just a touch exotic spice, she figured, "All broken up with week long stints in j-space."  It was the reality of travel on the Imperial frontier.  She paused and seemed almost wistful when she spoke again, "Hooked up with a pretty good crew on nice little ship.  A motley ... er, diverse bunch.  But extremely handy in almost any situation."  Shar liked the crew of the Longshot secrets and all; they were far from the standard tramp trader fair.

"How about you, young lady?" Sharik prompted Indy, "what have you been up to?  I mean last I heard you were pretty far from Cassandra's Belt.  And there was something, a rumor..." it tickled around in the back of her mind, "...about you and an ambassador's son?"
Samantha Kilgore
player, 458 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Fri 18 Jan 2019
at 08:28
  • msg #75

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam meets Vonuns gaze, her eyes wide and her mouth open. For a split second shes says nothing. Then she starts to talk, her gaze wandering a little as she does so, as she struggles for words. "Well I don't know what to say really.... uhm...I mean thats a pretty full on thing to do....against anyone... but family especially... I guess it meant more to you to be honest than keep quiet, yeah?" She pauses a second, and meets his gaze squarely "theres loads to unpack there, Vonun, but I have only one question that matters  really. Do you regret it?"
Inderpal Kumar
player, 24 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sat 19 Jan 2019
at 16:27
  • msg #76

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik Kaagira:
Sharik smiled brightly at Indy when prompted about any libations.  She seemed to ponder for a pregnant moment, and then as if on cue, the grapefruit mimosas that she'd previously arranged for arrived.  "Well," the auburn-haired socialite feigned a touch of idle blase, "why don't we sip these while we figure out what to drink."  And she handed the tart bubbly-filled flute to her dining companion.

Taking a sip of her own glass, Shar proceeded to order full Italian spread: an antipasti sampling plate to start, then a capellini pomodoro pasta as her first plate.  After some hemming and hawing, she settled on a roasted groat loin on a bed of mushroom risotto for her second plate.  Then with a wink to Inderpal, Sharik proceeded to order two molten chocolate cakes with a raspberry coulis knowing that the flour-less cakes would require extra preparation time to be done correctly.

Finally done ordering, the cosmopolitan socialite turned her full attention to the young diplomatic courier.  "I am well." Shar noted casually, "You know, the usual.  Odd jobs: political intrigues, salvaging alien tech, rescuing damsels in distress.  That sort of thing."  Enticingly vague with just a touch exotic spice, she figured, "All broken up with week long stints in j-space."  It was the reality of travel on the Imperial frontier.  She paused and seemed almost wistful when she spoke again, "Hooked up with a pretty good crew on nice little ship.  A motley ... er, diverse bunch.  But extremely handy in almost any situation."  Shar liked the crew of the Longshot secrets and all; they were far from the standard tramp trader fair.

"How about you, young lady?" Sharik prompted Indy, "what have you been up to?  I mean last I heard you were pretty far from Cassandra's Belt.  And there was something, a rumor..." it tickled around in the back of her mind, "...about you and an ambassador's son?"


Inderpal made her own order and smiled as the grapefruit mimosas turned up.

"Excellent choice" she said as she raised the glass in a toast and took a small mouthful. This was going to be a fun evening and probably a drunken one, which would arguably help things. You learned a lot of things from drunk diplomats.

"What's the rumour? Tell me and I'll tell you if it's true..."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 423 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sun 20 Jan 2019
at 04:33
  • msg #77

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Samantha Kilgore (msg # 75):

Vonon considers that for a moment,

"Right is Right, and Illegal is Illegal--whether the People want The Law enforced or not." Vonon responded, "I regret no action that I took, no.  I saw my duty and I did it.  And I would do so again, in the same circumstances."

"My Mother wasn't doing anything wrong, herself, you understand.  She was just turning a blind eye and keeping quiet about what was happening.  She said that the abuses of power by some of the folks in charge just weren't that serious, and that pursuing them would disrupt things more than letting them slide.  I disagreed."

"I suppose, in the end, she was correct, but I still stand by my actions.  Others, however, see me as just a trouble-maker--what is that saying from Old Earth?--that I am a Queen of the Drama."

"Ah, here we are..."

Vonon stops outside of a business façade which very much looks like an armored security post.  There is a central door with a doorman/bouncer in front--only the bouncer is a Vargr wearing what looks like a functional armored spacesuit with the helmet open.  In the recessed doorway, abouve the double panels of the door, is a holographic representation of an old-school neon sign which reads "The Filthy Cur" with a small, animated image of a Vargr firing a machine gun on full auto on either side of the name.

To either side of the central door are what could be windows--it's hard to tell because they have blast-shutters rolled down over them, with anti-Drakaar Minerals statements--things like 'Free The Belt!', 'Cassandra Miner's Liberation Army' and 'Space the Drakaar Pigs!'--sprayed upon them in multi-colored spray-paint, while numerous bullet scars and laser burns cover the surrounding walls.

Abouve all this, in large holographic red letters, reads a flickering sign--"Drakaar Central Security"--every now and then a random letter in the sign explodes in a shower of holographic sparks which cascade down to the floor.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 339 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Sun 20 Jan 2019
at 09:21
  • msg #78

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik shugged noncommittally, when prompted to spill the dirt; her face a mask of  indifference.  But then the facade cracked, and she smiled brightly again.  A sip of the tart bubbly later and the diminutive socialite leaned in.  "I heard...." and she glanced about to see if anyone else was listening, just for effect, "that he was nineteen and very much in love."  She dipped her freshly-baked bread in the flavored olive oil provided.

The petite Asian woman paused, brushing back an errant lock of auburn hair as she chewed for a moment.  Perhaps it was just for effect, but also perhaps to see her dinner companion might confirm or deny anything already said.  Well, that and her appetizer had arrived; so, she waited for the server to finish before speaking any further on the matter.

"Some say there was a proposal involved.  But we know that can't happen due to station, of course." Shar noted off-hand, presumably using the royal 'we'.  Then after plucking a spiced olive from her dish, she added rather conspiratorially, "My understanding was that he was already promised in a previous arranged marriage."

She watched Indy carefully as she took another sip of her mimosa, "Could have been a major diplomatic incident..."  Her tone was a mix of casual sympathy and vague disapproval.  But there was something else - a sort of genuine understanding.  As though, the circumstances were not all that uncommon.  Or perhaps for Sharik herself, not all that impersonal or unfamiliar.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 25 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sun 20 Jan 2019
at 19:13
  • msg #79

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Inderpal rolled her eyes slightly, then laughed. So it was that particular ambassador's son, not the other one.

"He did propose to me, but he was very much in lust, not love. He basically got drunk, broke into my room and tried, unsuccessfully, to seduce me. One, he was barely out of school and two, he had an awful looking nose. I reason you could stick jumper cables up his nostrils. Anyway, I'm sure he's making someone happy now."

When one was a diplomat, one learned to be very erudite in your trash talk. Or rather your refuse discussion.

"It's not to say I've not had some fun."
Samantha Kilgore
player, 459 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Mon 21 Jan 2019
at 09:01
  • msg #80

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Nice place V. It surprises me you're still single, when you obviously know how to treat a lady." Sam drawls, a grin on her face.

"Shall we" she says motioning towards the entrance

As they go in Sam scans the bar, looking for any other exits, and any particularly dodgy looking customers
This message was last edited by the player at 08:21, Fri 25 Jan 2019.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 340 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Thu 24 Jan 2019
at 18:20
  • msg #81

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik simply raised an eyebrow; she loved the banter, but could usually tell when things were being held back.  There were plenty of reasons to refuse a proposal - some better left unsaid.  "A girl's got to have her standards, of course." the auburn-haired socialite noted amiably, before she prompted her dinner companion lightly about the real reason that they were here, "So, what's really on your mind, Ms. Kumar?"  It obviously wasn't marriage, hook noses, or libations.

She poked idly at some of the cold cuts on the appetizer laid out before her, while watching her fellow scout intently and letting Indy take the lead on this one.  Sharik loved her company, but was pretty sure that simply playing catch up didn't warrant such urgency.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 27 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sun 27 Jan 2019
at 21:25
  • msg #82

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Well..." Inderpal said, considering precisely how to phrase this for a couple of seconds. The choice of words was vital in any diplomatic discussion, especially when dealing with potential difficult opponents.

She lowered her gaze slightly and ran her finger round the rim of her glass in an almost flirtatious.

"I'm looking for a job. On your ship."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 425 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Mon 28 Jan 2019
at 05:06
  • msg #83

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Samantha Kilgore (msg # 80):

OOC:  Sorry, again!  Sorry.  I had my brain washed several days ago, and I just haven't been able to do a thing with it since!



Once through the door, Vonon and Sam can take in the décor--a fusion of Totalitarian Security Office combined with Battlefield Chic.  The large space is obviously laid out to be a functional bar and grill, with a wide bar on the wall across from the door and several clusters of table booths, each having six tables separated from each other by vertical rods of multi-colored crystal rods which vibrate, making sounds similar to those of windchimes, and making it hard to hear what's happening in the next booth.  Despite the pleasant colors and peaceful sounds, the layout of the crystal rods is still reminiscent of bars on a prison cell.

Around the room are scenes reminiscent of being inside a target range--wall mounted electronics appear to have been shot up and are now randomly spitting sparks, what appear to be power-suited bodies with brown markings all over the armor are draped lifelessly over railings or crumpled on the floor in corners.  Autoturrets up on the ceiling swing about suddenly, bringing their weapon barrels to bear on a customer--and colorful lights shine from the barrels and illuminate the customer for a moment, accompanied by laughter from the customers companions.

And everywhere there are Uniforms.

The wait staff--who appear to all be Humans--are wearing what looks like a brown tactical one-piece jumpsuit, with the words "Drakaar Minerals Security" in white on the backs.  They are also all wearing what look to be active Compulsion Collars--electronic collars that can stun, electro-shock, or even kill the person wearing them by use of a remote device--and all the blinking lights on the collars seem to indicate these are active.  There are a few Vargr wearing the same brown jumpsuit, with the same logo on the back, but the Vargr aren't wearing Compulsion Collars, they are, instead, wearing wide, white armbands on their right arms.

Much of the clientele, maybe about seventy percent, is also in uniform--black trousers tucked into black spaceboots (almost identical to what Vonon is wearing) with a long-sleeved, dark grey shirt that's only a few shades lighter than the trousers, with a black collar and wearing a long, narrow black tie.  A handful of the people wearing this uniform are also wearing a heavy, leather-looking black jacket--again, pretty much identical to the one Vonon's wearing.

In fact, as the door is hissing closed behind them, Sam can look over at the nearby wall and see dozens of black caps--just like the one Vonon is wearing--hanging on pegs, only these caps all have a gold-colored badge on them.  At first she thinks it's an atom symbol, but quickly realizes it's a round star with a pair of crossed orbital paths over the star.

And a handful of these uniformed customers are wearing crimson-colored garrison belts--with holsters.

A lady Vargr wearing the brown jumpsuit with a white brassard on her right upper arm and no Compulsion Collar around her neck steps over to Vonon and Sam--she has a heavy-looking Snub Machine Pistol hanging on her chest from a lanyard around her neck.

"Good afternoon, Citizens." she says in excellent Anglic, with only an underlaying hint of a growl, "Will you be dining with us, or would you rather go on to the bar?"

"A booth, please.  Far from the bar." Vonon requests.

The Vargr woman cocks her head to the left at the request, "Well, let's see if we can fix you up with what you want!" she says with a smile, as she reaches for the Snub Gun.
Samantha Kilgore
player, 460 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Mon 28 Jan 2019
at 08:22
  • msg #84

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam bristles as the woman reaches for her weapon, but as Vonun seems unfazed she assumes its just a prop. Like she hopes the Compulsion collars are. But she waits silently until the waitress sorts out their table.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 426 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Wed 30 Jan 2019
at 05:57
  • msg #85

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Samantha Kilgore (msg # 84):

The hostess brings up the Snub SMG, pointing it a little to her left, and pulls the trigger--a holographic map of the club's layout appears hanging in the air,  She looks at it for just a moment, then points with her free hand.

"Here you go--a free table in cluster one, over in the front corner.  Will that do, Sir and Miss?"

"Yes, that will be very nice.  Thank you for your trouble." Vonon responds.

The female Vargr hostess let's the machine gun/holo-projector drop to the end of it's lanyard as she let's out with a loud laugh.

"Ha-ha!!  That's a good one, Sport!" she says with genuine amusement, reaching out to punch Vonon on the shoulder, "Thanking a Dreg!  C'mon, get with the spirit around here!  Next you'll be askin me to slap you around--again! Ha-ha-ha!  C'mon, the table's this way...heh."

The hostess leads Sam and Vonon off to the left, from the door, into the corner of the room where a cluster of six tables is located--each booth separated by glowing, tinkling crystal bars.  She stops at the entrance to a booth with no view of the main bar, across the room, and gestures Sam and Vonon in.

"Here you are.  My name is Reeny, please ask for me if you need anything special.  Your server will be Xavier, and he should be with you in a moment.  Now don't let me hear anything from him about you treating Dregs nice, you hear me, Sport? Ha-ha-ha."

The hostess--Reeny--walks away, leaving Sam and Vonon for a few moments, to wait for their server, Xavier.
Samantha Kilgore
player, 461 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Wed 30 Jan 2019
at 08:25
  • msg #86

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam slid into her seat and smiled at Reeny as she walked away

Turning to Vonun she smirked and raised an eyebrow "interesting theme to this place. and also - WTF?"
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 427 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Thu 31 Jan 2019
at 08:54
  • msg #87

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Samantha Kilgore (msg # 86):

"Remember I told you the nickname of this place--The Filthy Cur--is an inside joke?" Vonon asks, then gestures indicating the entire bar.

"This is a historical reenactment bar.  This building actually was the Central Security headquarters for Drakaar Minerals.  Most of those bullet holes in the walls are real."

Vonon tips his cap back a bit and leans back in the booth, "Cassandra System was originally opened for exploitation by Drakaar Minerals.  They used underhanded tactics to recruit the original miners, then treated them poorly--virtual wage slaves in a spiraling cycle of debt."

"After generations of abuse, the rockhoppers finally started fighting back. Sabotaging Drakaar ships, work slowdowns, some minor terrorism and a few assassinations.  The local Drakaar officials started worrying that the higher-ups back at Corporate might get angry over the losses, so they took some radical action--they sent a recruiter off to The Extents to hire Vargr mercenaries to help them suppress the population."

An attractive young adult Human male wearing one of the brown Drakaar Security uniform jumpsuits and a Compulsion Collar with lots of tiny blinking lights around his neck steps up to the entrance to the booth.

"Hello, my name is Xavier, and I will be your Dreg server.  May I get you a drink, or perhaps some small plates?" he asks with a smile.

"PanGalactic GargleBlaster." Vonon orders, pulling his cap back down, "And skip the forest."

"Got it.  And for you, Miss?"
Sharik Kaagira
player, 341 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Thu 31 Jan 2019
at 23:44
  • msg #88

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik tilted her head slightly, in a rather quizzical and definitely feminine, way.  A slight, bemused smile touched her lips when Inderpal made her request for employment on the Longshot.  The auburn-haired dilettante tapped her chin lightly with her fingertips for a moment as her gaze grew a touch distant.  "A job" she stated flatly, "Ah."

She pursed her lips and blew an errant lock of hair from her face.  "Well, let's see." and Shar glanced down at her dataglove started to scroll through a display, "I'm gonna need a resume in triplicate."  She tsk'd slightly, "What is with all these corporate regulations... Need to set up interviews with HR, security, and the Captain...  all through a liaison point.  Likely the corporate Secretary..."  She seemed absorbed in thought, as she continued to scroll.... "Medical exam.... okay.  A psych-eval?  Really?"

"Well," Sharik noted, looking up from her forearm display, which was flashing an ominous red, "there are some hoops to jump through, it seems.  Anyhoo, I will try to put in a good word for you..."  She tapped the display on her dataglove in a couple of places and seemed to be sending off a missive before she leaned in and confided with her companion, "I hear that person in charge of Personnel can be a real pain in the ass.  But just be yourself.  You'll be fine."

Her dataglove pinged dutifully and Sharik glanced down at it, looking quizzical again for a moment.

Then her posture straightened and features took on a more professional demeanor, "Ah, Ms. Kumar, it appears that you are seeking employment on the Longshot, is it?"  One of Sharik's eyebrows shot up at the end of the question, and she paused before glancing down at her dataglove once more.  "I am going to have to ask you a series of questions..." the diminutive ex-operative noted curtly and rather deadpan, "Reaction time is a factor, so please answer as quickly as you can.  Can you describe in only single words, only the good things you remember, about your mother?"

But then the facade cracked, her posture slouched, and she giggled as she waved off the maternal question.  And replaced it with another.  "Employment, eh?" Sharik queried between chuffs, "I'm pretty sure that we can work something out."  She leaned in slightly, after picking up an olive and popping it into her mouth.  Resting her elbows on the table and cradling her chin on the fingers formed by her interlaced fingers, she finished chewing and then prompted Indy once more, "So, what are you doing on Cassie's Belt?  And what crew position do you want to fill on the Longshot?"  Though it seemed idle chatter, it was obviously not strictly idle curiosity.


[OOC:  Though Sharik likely knows IC, her player has no idea what Indy's qualifications/skills/UPP &c. are.  Oh, and with only a picture and no description, it is a bit tough to gauge anything else about her physically.  So, feel free to fill in any gaps...:D]
Samantha Kilgore
player, 462 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Fri 1 Feb 2019
at 08:35
  • msg #89

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam raised two fingers on her right hand in a v sign "Make that two of those please" smiling at the Dreg, " and something fresh to nibble that you would choose if you ate here"

Leaning back in the booth she looked around "OK. Its an angle I suppose. A weird one, but I've seen weirder" Turning back to Vonun she said "So fill me in on the details - why are they called Dregs? And if the Vargr came as enforcers, aren't you guys likely to be extremely unpopular?"

ooc
2 sci fi refs in 2 posts - good going!
Inderpal Kumar
player, 28 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sat 2 Feb 2019
at 12:03
  • msg #90

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik Kaagira:
Sharik tilted her head slightly, in a rather quizzical and definitely feminine, way.  A slight, bemused smile touched her lips when Inderpal made her request for employment on the Longshot.  The auburn-haired dilettante tapped her chin lightly with her fingertips for a moment as her gaze grew a touch distant.  "A job" she stated flatly, "Ah."

She pursed her lips and blew an errant lock of hair from her face.  "Well, let's see." and Shar glanced down at her dataglove started to scroll through a display, "I'm gonna need a resume in triplicate."  She tsk'd slightly, "What is with all these corporate regulations... Need to set up interviews with HR, security, and the Captain...  all through a liaison point.  Likely the corporate Secretary..."  She seemed absorbed in thought, as she continued to scroll.... "Medical exam.... okay.  A psych-eval?  Really?"

"Well," Sharik noted, looking up from her forearm display, which was flashing an ominous red, "there are some hoops to jump through, it seems.  Anyhoo, I will try to put in a good word for you..."  She tapped the display on her dataglove in a couple of places and seemed to be sending off a missive before she leaned in and confided with her companion, "I hear that person in charge of Personnel can be a real pain in the ass.  But just be yourself.  You'll be fine."

Her dataglove pinged dutifully and Sharik glanced down at it, looking quizzical again for a moment.

Then her posture straightened and features took on a more professional demeanor, "Ah, Ms. Kumar, it appears that you are seeking employment on the Longshot, is it?"  One of Sharik's eyebrows shot up at the end of the question, and she paused before glancing down at her dataglove once more.  "I am going to have to ask you a series of questions..." the diminutive ex-operative noted curtly and rather deadpan, "Reaction time is a factor, so please answer as quickly as you can.  Can you describe in only single words, only the good things you remember, about your mother?"

But then the facade cracked, her posture slouched, and she giggled as she waved off the maternal question.  And replaced it with another.  "Employment, eh?" Sharik queried between chuffs, "I'm pretty sure that we can work something out."  She leaned in slightly, after picking up an olive and popping it into her mouth.  Resting her elbows on the table and cradling her chin on the fingers formed by her interlaced fingers, she finished chewing and then prompted Indy once more, "So, what are you doing on Cassie's Belt?  And what crew position do you want to fill on the Longshot?"  Though it seemed idle chatter, it was obviously not strictly idle curiosity.


[OOC:  Though Sharik likely knows IC, her player has no idea what Indy's qualifications/skills/UPP &c. are.  Oh, and with only a picture and no description, it is a bit tough to gauge anything else about her physically.  So, feel free to fill in any gaps...:D]



Inderpal knew that Sharik could do very well developed practical jokes and was about to make an actual response to the question when Sharik's facade fell and the gag ended.

She smiled.

"I left the Scout Service a couple of months back and moved here. It seemed decent enough, but now one is starting to get seriously bored. You can only eat at so many nice restaurants before you've eaten at them all. I'm pretty much open to doing anything, but I'd love to be a trade broker of some form. I tried that but got drafted before I could get an actual job...

Also, make-up. My mother is a master at elegant make-up that looked natural. Not to mention hair. She could have been a hairdresser if that wasn't seen as below her station."
StarMaster
GM, 902 posts
Wed 6 Feb 2019
at 08:46
  • msg #91

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

STATUS UPDATE


Evelyn and Pablo: security detail on the ship.

Inderpal and Sharik: in a posh restaurant catching on things.

Sam and Vonon: having a drink in a bar.

Khea: off and buying engineering supplies.

Serge: off shopping.

Valeska: off drinking at a bar looking to pick up Mr. Right-Now.

Walter: dealing with the cargo--selling what they had, buying more? At the Hotel TAS planning big dinner for the next day.

Let's say you can play out what you want between now and Sunday. Sunday, I'll post Walter's big dinner party.

This message was last edited by the GM at 19:56, Wed 06 Feb 2019.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 344 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Thu 7 Feb 2019
at 01:46
  • msg #92

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik quirked her head quizzically at Inderpal's answer about her mother; it was hard to envision Lady Kumar as a hairdresser.  But, as obviously desired by her dinner companion, the thought of Indy's mother manning a cash register was undeniably chuckle-inducing.

The auburn-haired astrogator returned to the woman's other answer with some bemusement still playing on her features.  "Broker?" she reiterated, "Well, the Captain, Sir Walter, will likely have some say in that ..." and she looked thoughtful for a moment, "His brokering skills are ... notoriously formidable.  The Kasu-Sha'az arbitrage deal was his, I believe."  Shar rarely name dropped, but that piece of trade negotiation was well-known throughout the subsector.  "Though, I am sure that something can be worked out." and there was another thoughtful pause.  "Perhaps a junior apprenticeship?" the diminutive ex-operative prompted, "He does love to talk shop..."

"In any case," Sharik continued, "Since we are a small operation, you'll likely have to wear more than one hat.  How about communications officer?  Not always glamorous, but definitely up your alley."  She knew that Indy was a definite partypeople person (despite her extensive stint as an xBoat pilot).  Plus, it could be interpreted as a good segue into personal trading interests.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 431 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sat 9 Feb 2019
at 08:44
  • msg #93

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Sharik Kaagira (msg # 92):

OOC: I wrote this, like, a week ago, and when I went to post it, it got swallowed by the Internet Monster.  I was just so angry/bummed that I just couldn't focus long enough to re-write it, and so it took several days.  If this one gets lost, I'm just going to crawl into a corner and weep...


"Okay, got the drinks." Xavier says with a smile, "Might I suggest for your nibble our Space Rocks?  They are bite-sized soft pretzel balls with a variety of fillings--from cheeses, to meats, to savory mashed vegetable medleys, to sweet fruit compotes.  They are served as a plate of one dozen with mixed flavors.  Each tasty Space Rock is a surprise for your taste buds.  And the lightly salted soft pretzel crust goes well with the mulled spiciness of the GargleBlaster."

After Xavier had left with the order, Vonon addressed Sam's questions,

"Dreg is the nickname that the Rockhoppers gave to anyone working directly for Drakaar Minerals, especially their Security Officers.  So, anyone wearing that brown Drakaar uniform is jokingly called a Dreg, here."

"As for the Vargr wearing Dreg uniforms...well," Vonon says with a grin, "If there is one thing you can count on beyond death and taxes, it's corporate greed."

"The Drakaar recruiter, instead of travelling all the way coreward to The Extents, just travelled over to Daibei Sector, the next sector trailing from The Deep.  He figured any Vargr would be good as enforcers, so he lived the high life on some of the funds he'd been given access to, as he took his time searching for some local Vargr Mercenaries.  As things turned out, he found an entire Ground Forces Regiment that had just formed--all of them experienced ex-military."

"He hired the Battle Dogs Mercenary Regiment under the pretext of a five year Security Garrison job.  Most of the Mercs were ex-Imperial Marines, so a job in an asteroid belt wasn't too much of a stretch.  The money was good, the contract was good--except, as the Battle Dogs found out later, there were a few double-talk clauses that effectively meant if the Regiment ever refused to perform a requested action, or if tey ever wanted to back out of the contract--they'd end up owing Drakaar Minerals more money than the contract was worth.  And with Planet Drakaar being an independent world, here in The Deep, they couldn't count on Imperial Law if they wanted out."

"But hiring the Battle Dogs turned out to be a two-edged sword.  The recuiter from Drakaar--like I said, he wasn't Imperial, had no idea that Vargr who live in the Imperium--and especially those Vargr that take up the Emperor's Uniform--were any different than Vargr from The Extents.  The good folks at Drakaar Minerals thought all Vargr were the same--agressive, mad-dog thugs.  Nobody with Drakaar even bothered to run a background check on the founder of the Battle Dogs, Colonel R'Asta Gerr'ergan--a Vargr ex-Imperial Drop Marine officer, callsign "Death-Stalker".  Or, more importantly, he was also Sir R'Asta Grr'ergan, Imperial Knight."

Vonon smiled as he recalled his history, "Story goes, once Sir R'Asta found out what he'd actually signed his men up to do, his entire command staff had to prevent him from going by himself to the Drakaar Mineral Corporate Center with an autorifle and executing as many members of the Board as he could before was shot down."

"Sir R'Asta's officer cadre pointed out the huge legal and financial difficulty the Unit would be in, if they broke their contract--with or without cause.  Drakaar had written an airtight contract.  So, rather than accomplish nothing by breaking their contract, the Vargr soldiers of the Battle Dogs Mercenary Regiment decided that their violation of their contract with Drakaar Minerals would mean something."

"Outwardly, the Battle Dogs obeyed the orders given them by their Drakaar masters--but in reality they did everything they could to soften the repressive actions ordered by Drakaar while still reporting back that all orders had been followed.  And, it took time, but the Mercenaries eventually made contact with the Anti-Drakaar movement."

Vonon shifted forward and rested his elbows on the table, "You have to understand, Sam, that this wasn't your classical rebellion or civil war.  Most of the rockhoppers really didn't care who was running the place, they just wanted fair and just treatment and fair prices.  If Drakaar suddenly changed policy and started dealing fair with them, all Anti-Drakaar sentiments would likely have disappeared overnight.  But the folks running Drakaar--not just here, but everywhere, I've heard--were just to stupid to believe that.  They acually tought that beating up on rockhoppers and depriving them of needed supplies would make them nuckle under."

Vonon chuckled that odd half-laugh, half-growl laugh that Vargr have, "That policy has never worked with Rockhoppers.  Not anywhere, not ever.  And a lot of Asteroid Mine Supervisiors through-out history have woken up to their bedrooms in vaccuum, to prove it."

"So, for months the Vargr Mercenaries and the Anti-Drakaar factions slowly, secretly worked together and made plans.  Finally the time came when, led by the more experienced Vargr Mercenaries, a short, almost-bloodless coup was held here at Rockport.  There was a little bit of fighting with various personal security for a few Drakaar officials, but most of the fighting took place right...here." Vonon brings a finger down upon the table.

"As I said, this building actually was the Drakaar Security Central Headquarters.  And even with the Vargr Mercenaries being 'inside' the Drakaar Security operations, somehow the Dregs tricked to what was going on at the last tic.  When the Vargr inside here tried to make their play, the Dregs were ready and overwhelmed them.  But the battle plan was so well laid out that the Battle Dogs went ahead with it anyway.  Casualties were a little higher, but one of the Vargr inside here wasn't as dead as the Dregs thought he was.  Took him an hour, but he managed to get a supply hatch open, down in the holding cells, before he truly died."

Xavier returned at that moment with a tray holding two exotically shaped glasses, each holding a bubbling, smoking liquid that was not only glowing with an inner light, but the color of that light kept changing through the spectrum of colors.  One of the glasses had two paper umbrellas in it, as well as a handful of different colored plant stalks--a couple of which seemed to be disolving into the drink.  The other glass had no such frills.

"Here you go, Free Citizens." Xavier says pleasantly, setting the glass with all the frilly stuff sticking out of it in fron of Sam, "One PanGalactic GargleBlaster for Miss...and another for Sir..." Xavier puts the second, unadorned glass in front of Vonon, "Without the Forest, as requested.  And a plate of our signature Space Rocks."

"Will there be anything else you want to kick loose from the Dregs, or shall I come back a little later--if I haven't been put against the wall by then, that is?  Ha-ha-ha-ha!"

"Nothing else now, Havvy.  Maybe later." Vonon says distractedly, looking away.

"Havvy!  Ha-ha-ha! I haven't been called that since--Oh My Buddha!" Xavier suddenly looks shocked, then leans in close to Vonon, "Commander?!!"

Vonon quickly turns his head and goes nose-to-snout with the young human waiter,

"Dammit, Havvy, I am not here! You did not see me.  Please." Vonon quietly growls.

"Right, right, I gotcha, Commander.  I'll take care of ya myself, make sure nobody comes over here." Xavier responds equally quietly, standing up, "I got yer back, Sir, no problem."

Vonon watched Xavier move on as if nothing were going on,

"That dumb-ass Mercenary who killed himself getting the door open so his buddies could get in here quicker..." Vonon said, still watching Xavier, then turning back to Sam as he picked up his frothing drink.

"That stupid bastard was Pack Ronkunu--my GreatGrandfather.  He'd have lived if he just played dead and waited for the Dregs to fall." Vonon shrugs and takes a sip of his drink--leaving a little foam that appears to turn into flame and burn away from his furry upper lip, "Since then it's kinda become a familiy tradition to do stupid, self-sacrificial things that open doors in aide of others--whether that door needs to be opened or not."
Samantha Kilgore
player, 464 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Sat 9 Feb 2019
at 11:35
  • msg #94

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

As the waiter put down the Space Rocks, Sam looked up and smiled at him, nodding thanks, before reaching over and popping one in her mouth.

She almost choked on it as V finished off his tale and faced off to the waiter, expecting trouble. Swallowing quickly, as V finished talking and took a sip, Sam sat there a little stunned by how much she had learned over not even one drink yet.

So Sam did the only thing she could think of. Picking up her glass she raised it to V and said "To your great grandfather" and took a sip, and then raised the glass again and said "And to holding the doors" taking another larger sip, half finishing her drink before setting it down.

Interlacing her hands, she rested her chin on them and looked at V with her head on a tilt.

"So, your persona non grata here because you blew the whistle on corruption, your grandad was a local hero for being crazy brave, and you admire him enough to be the same, you've just been recognised by a compadre but asked him to keep things on the down low." Sam sighed theatrically "Its really not gonna be a quiet night is it?"

Sitting back up, Sam rubbed her hands togethor in glee, and with a gleam in her eye said "Excellent!" She picked up her glass once more and tipped it again to V and said "To Quiet nights" and downed the rest before throwing her had back and laughing loud and long.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 30 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sat 9 Feb 2019
at 22:29
  • msg #95

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik Kaagira:
Sharik quirked her head quizzically at Inderpal's answer about her mother; it was hard to envision Lady Kumar as a hairdresser.  But, as obviously desired by her dinner companion, the thought of Indy's mother manning a cash register was undeniably chuckle-inducing.

The auburn-haired astrogator returned to the woman's other answer with some bemusement still playing on her features.  "Broker?" she reiterated, "Well, the Captain, Sir Walter, will likely have some say in that ..." and she looked thoughtful for a moment, "His brokering skills are ... notoriously formidable.  The Kasu-Sha'az arbitrage deal was his, I believe."  Shar rarely name dropped, but that piece of trade negotiation was well-known throughout the subsector.  "Though, I am sure that something can be worked out." and there was another thoughtful pause.  "Perhaps a junior apprenticeship?" the diminutive ex-operative prompted, "He does love to talk shop..."

"In any case," Sharik continued, "Since we are a small operation, you'll likely have to wear more than one hat.  How about communications officer?  Not always glamorous, but definitely up your alley."  She knew that Indy was a definite partypeople person (despite her extensive stint as an xBoat pilot).  Plus, it could be interpreted as a good segue into personal trading interests.


"I'd definitely like communications officer",Inderpal replied as Sharik suggested another role, "I've found that some people really don't use the proper diction these days. That is so important on a radio where poor communication can kill..."

She took a mouthful of her drink and turned back to Sharik, smiling happily, "Well working to improve my trading skills. I ran a lemonade stall for a few months as a child.
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 268 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Sun 10 Feb 2019
at 17:59
  • msg #96

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

With Evelyn holed up in some dark engineering corner that he never even knew existed, Pablo almost felt like he was alone on the ship. Not that that was a bad thing, unless you asked safety organizations or the military, and he'd been alone before. One had to be careful with that, though, as it had a tendency to lead to cabin fever, which, in turn, sometimes drove you to take a walk outside. If you were snowbound in a cabin in the wilderness, especially in winter (unless there was a raging blizzard), the cold and wind drove you back inside before it became hazardous.

On a ship, it wasn't a good idea, especially in j-space. The sensors indicated a formless gray void, but anyone who went out side usually went mad within a minute. Of course, you had to be mad to want to go outside the ship while it was in j-space anyway. Those who had made that mistake reported seeing strange creatures and even stranger objects... none of which registered on the sensors. Lots of theories were suggested to account for this, but since those seeing them were quite mad by then, it was mostly chalked up to mania.

He didn't really need to be on the ship for security purposes, as the ship had its own security systems. On the other hand, what one person could create for security another person could figure out a way around it. Technically, that included people, too. People just added another layer of security and made it that much harder to get around both. In the case of the Longshot, it was an old... make that very old converted System Defense Boat; who would be stupid enough to want to steal it... or even rob it?

Anyway, Pablo had no idea if Evelyn was making forays to the galley to eat; if she was, their paths hadn't crossed yet. Walter's big celebration dinner was only a day away now, so Pablo couldn't help wondering if Evelyn was planning on going... and, if she was, how she'd... handle things.

He stopped in the galley to gather up some food and then went looking for her. He found her, of course, in engineering.

"Hey, Evelyn... I brought you some food... in case you were hungry," he called out. "I've got a fried peanut butter and banana sandwich and a PB-and-J sandwich, if either of those strike your fancy. I've also got chips and fizzy drinks."

"Now I know you say you don't have survivor's guilt or PTSD, but you do realize that you'd be the last one to know that, right? Just sayin'."

"Walter's celebration dinner is tomorrow. So, I was wondering if you were planning on going?"

"I suppose you don't really have to, but you are going to need to interact with the crew. I hate throwing cliches at you, but no man... or woman... is an island."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 432 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Mon 11 Feb 2019
at 04:29
  • msg #97

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Samantha Kilgore (msg # 94):

     "Not exactly persona non grata, but close enough." Vonon says, leaning over the plate of Space Rocks and sniffing a couple times, before taking one.

     "Curry Chicken, my favorite." Vonon says with a grin, tossing the tidbit into his maw,

     "Cassandra's Belt is one of the denser belts, plenty of places I could have gone to avoid the folks here at Rockport." he says while chewing his food, "But I was disillusioned at how little the folks around here cared about the corruption I'd exposed--and yes, it was also dawning on me that said corruption might indeed have been more the minor types, which nobody seemed to care about, but there was a lot of it!"

     Vonon just shrugged, "I just wanted to get away.  I had some money saved, and when I was a pup I'd had a short-term dream of being a Merchant Prince, wheeling-and-dealing across the stars, so I thought I'd pursue that.  That brought me to Planet Grendle--an Ocean World."

     "The only life I'd known was living on ships and asteroid bases, and while we have a pretty good Tech-Thirteen lifestyle here, we have to import it.  We have to import almost everything."  Vonon paused to take a sip from his drink, and pointed at the plate of appetizers with his free hand.

     "Ninety percent of the meat and vegetable matter here is vat-grown." Vonon says, as he puts down his drink, "We just don't have the space or energy for greenhouses--of any kind!  Hydroponic, aeroponic, or old fashioned dirt gardening, it all takes too long or too much energy or too much space."  Again Vonon shrugs, "Nothing wrong with vat-grown, it's real, at least, being cloned from sample cells of the real product.  Not like that goop that food synthesizers produce--using chemicals, yeasts and artificial flavors, all heat-pressed into a generic patty."

     "I went to Grendle because I thought an Ocean World--besides being something I'd never seen before--might have unique trade items to offer.  Maybe different foods, rare liquors, even exotic water.  As I've said many times, people who grow up in artificially maintained environments--even when those environments try to replicate more natural locals, like the Parks, here on Rockport--people who live in closed environments go crazy for anything that really is 'natural'.  The water here is eternally processed and reprocessed, it tastes flat and lifeless.  But natural water, that is an exotic beverage around here."
Samantha Kilgore
player, 465 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Tue 12 Feb 2019
at 08:26
  • msg #98

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"If waters so exotic, how come your drinking alcohol?" Sam said with a smirk "You can get that anywhere. Hell I even tried making it once on a ship. Tasted like crap, got me drunk though. And sick. So sick I missed a duty and ended up getting extras. Can't really say it was worth it, to be honest. Still when your young..." She shrugged and sat back a bit

"So where would be a good place to get some fancy non-vat grown food around here? if thats possible?"
Sharik Kaagira
player, 346 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Tue 19 Feb 2019
at 23:22
  • msg #99

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik smirked slightly at Inderpal's answers.  She typed a quick message highlighting the young diplomat's skill set and attached the limited documentation that she had on her friend (including any resume that Indy might have blasted over to her -she'd been quite serious about that part) in a comm blast to both the Captain and the Executive Officer of the Longshot with a final statement/interrogative '++Looking for working passage off-world (comms officer), long-term potential (broker?).++</'  Shar figured that the former would pique Vonon's interest and the latter Sir Walter's.

She also noted in her message that she'd bring Inderpal to the crew dinner to make more formal introductions.

With all the corporate business taken care of, the diminutive astrogator polished off the rest of her pasta plate while chatting idly about whatever passed for gossip on station.  Then she moved on to dessert where a quick, sanitized version of the past couple of months came out - with no mention of any illegal psi experimentation or alien gravitic drive anomalies were mentioned.  And only a passing reference to the Baroness Elgin was made as any current litigation or political ramifications were still yet to be seen (though Sharik did note that perhaps Inderpal could offer some counsel, potentially).  Still, given her ability to weave a story and interject it voices and side quests, the auburn-haired socialite made it entertaining enough, which was her primary goal.

Dabbing the corner of her mouth with her napkin, Shar's expression brightened.  With the bill paid, it was time to move on.  "Who's up for some retail therapy?" she prompted, tanking the last of the liquid in her champagne flute while tossing her napkin on the table.  Now seemed like as good a time as any for finding some fairly mundane items - especially now that she come into a little more liquid cash.  There were some varied and sundry items as well as a few program updates that she figured might be useful.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 32 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sat 23 Feb 2019
at 12:09
  • msg #100

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"I wouldn't mind that", Inderpal lied, as she gently placed her own napkin on the table, finished her drink and got up from her seat, "Any particular place in mind? I know this quite well".

Which is why she'd gotten bored of it. There were only so many clothing and perfume shops you could visit before you get utterly, utterly bored.

She moved towards the bathrooms.

"Just let me converse with Lady Porcelain first. I'll meet you outside."
StarMaster
GM, 907 posts
Sun 24 Feb 2019
at 20:46
  • msg #101

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

((OOC: Seems to have stalled a bit, so... fast forward...))


Walter has arranged for everyone (that wants to) to stay at the TAS Hotel. After all, he's got some clout. Not as much as the Count had, but every little bit helps.


The celebration dinner commences... as soon as everyone gets there, but no later than 30 minutes after the last person arrives just in case someone chooses not to attend. After all, there'll be clowns and dancing bears and... No? Oh, okay... different celebration...
Serge Baklanov
player, 63 posts
Marine/Scout
Tue 26 Feb 2019
at 10:06
  • msg #102

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to StarMaster (msg # 101):

Serge was in time for dinner.
Samantha Kilgore
player, 467 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Wed 27 Feb 2019
at 09:23
  • msg #103

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam will arrive on time, if anything  about 5 minutes early
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 269 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Mon 4 Mar 2019
at 17:59
  • msg #104

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

He's tried to get Evelyn to come out of her shell... literally, whatever 'shell' she was hiding in.

"You are a member of this crew now," he tells her.

"As such, you will be expected to attend Walter's celebration dinner. It's not a big formal thing... I don't think... I don't even think he is planning on having clowns there. It's just a sit-down dinner where we congratulate each other on having successfully complete our first unofficial mission."

"I suspect he's also planning on telling us what our next... unofficial mission is."
Valeska Brandenberg
player, 75 posts
Mon 11 Mar 2019
at 02:23
  • msg #105

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

She was pretty sure that Walter had said the dinner was informal, but it didn't hurt to look nice, so she stopped at a shop and got a new blouse and skirt and a few accessories.

Changing there in the store, she stuffed her old clothes in her purse and headed for the TAS Hotel. It wasn't a particularly fancy hotel, but it was neatly maintained and... clean.

She walked into the reserved dining area right on time... the heck with this 'fashionably late' crap.

"Hello, everyone!" she called out whether anyone was there or not. "Are we having fun yet?"
Walter Zeller
player, 497 posts
Merchant/Noble
Tue 12 Mar 2019
at 01:57
  • msg #106

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Once everyone arrived, Sir Walter called the group to order.

"I am glad that we are all gathered together. This will be a working dinner so grab yourself a bite to eat and get comfortable." he said as he motioned towards a buffet table with various fine foods and wines.

"As most of you are aware of, the Count gathered us together and we have been doing rather well...until recently. There is still no word as to what caused the issues with him. I wish I could give you better news but hopefully he will be back to his usual self. If a new vid comes out with him, let us all be sure to go see it." Walter said.

"Now, with changes to the crew, I would like to step back and focus on the operations aspect of the company as that area I feel that I will be the most useful to the group. With that in mind, I would like to announce that Vonon will be taking over as Captain. He will be handling the day to day operations of the vessel. If you have interest in the trade aspect of interstellar commence, I would be willing to take you all on as apprentices but that will be up to Captain Vonon as the needs of the vessel will come first."

"Any questions?" he asked.
Samantha Kilgore
player, 468 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Tue 12 Mar 2019
at 08:28
  • msg #107

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam filled her plate with various delicacies, but opted for sparkling water to drink.

After Walter announced Vonuns captaincy she leaned into V and whispered "Good job Ive got some dirt on the new captain after the other night, eh?" her eyes sparkling as she grinned at him.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 347 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Tue 12 Mar 2019
at 08:36
  • msg #108

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik contemplated for a moment about whether to join Indy in the lavatory to freshen up, but decided against it.  The pull was strong (one might say instinctual), but she resisted.  The cosmopolitan socialite had kept her make-up simple enough that all she really needed to do after the meal was reapply some lipstick and that was it.

The bulk of her time waiting was spent perusing the public directory to ensure that she knew where they would be targeting.  Shar had some very specific needs that she was going to have to have fulfilled.  There was clothing involved, but not just for her; Sharik put an order in to have matching jumpsuits for the crew made (well, and Indy - you know, just in case).  She'd taken enough video and still footage of everyone during their shipboard time to have a pretty good idea of their sizes.  She'd pay for garments upfront with her own accounts - but figured that she'd hit up the Captain for reimbursement from the corporation, if possible.

Additionally, on her list there was the matter of certain electronics - both hard and soft components - that she wanted and hoped might be available on station.  She sent her virtual agent spiraling out to check for item availability in anticipation of her dinner companion's return.

Once they were reunited, Sharik paid and then trotted off towards the shopping district with Indy in tow.  While she was pretty sure that her enthusiasm for the foray was greater then her companion's (simply by the fact that Sharik had been cooped up on the Longshot for the last few weeks while Inderpal had had free run of the station that she was now exploring), but that didn't seem to dull Sharik's mood at all.  Plus, in her experience, Indy was both discreet and politely patient.  It likely didn't help that Shar knew that her friend wanted a job with the Longshot and probably viewed this stint of shopping as part of the continued interview.  A perception which the auburn-haired astrogator was perfectly happy to continue to cultivate.

Seriously, what else did Indy have to do?  Pack?  Pshaw!

It was while shopping (well, four stores into their Retail Therapy™ session) that Sharik invited Inderpal to the crew dinner the next night at the TAS hostel.  As a candidate for crew it would be a good chance for everyone to get to know each other.  Or for the rest of the crew to scare the young diplomat.  Or for Ms. Kumar to figure out just what she was getting into and give her a chance to reconsider.  Or to just have another nice night out ... another dinner date as TAS food was generally pretty good.

Sharik pinged Indy about 20 minutes before time for the dinner; the auburn-haired socialite could hardly be late as she was already rooming at the TAS hostel.  She arrived a few minutes early with one of the staff valets - who had the crewsuits (complete with emblazoned custom logos embroidered on them) in tow.

Walter's news provoked a slight quirk of the head, but it made sense to her.  The man had always struck her as more of a consulari anyways.  And thankfully, he was remaining with the ship; the nobleman had parleyed the corporate funds into a substantial amount and she hoped that he'd continue to do so for a long time.  The diminutive astrogator simply smiled when he asked for questions, waiting to see if anyone else had more to say.   Then, sidling over to Vonon to give her old friend a crooked smile and light punch on the shoulder as a sort of congratulations on his promotion.  Sharik did make it a point of dragging Indy over to where both Vonon and Walter were to introduce the young lady.  Addressing both the former and new Captain of the Longshot, Shar pointed to the comely diplomat, "May I present Ms. Inderpal Kumar.  This is the young lady whose resume I forward to you for consideration."  She figured that both of Vo and Sir Walter would be interested in her for different reasons.  With her brief introduction finished Sharik took a step back, though she remained nearby.  You know, for moral support.  And answer any questions about resume references.


[OOC:  Sharik has purchased TL-10 Armortec Crew Coats (Bk 7, p.112) for everyone.  Enjoy!  Note, they are all of similar style and cut - and do carry the embroidered logo of the Longshot and the newly formed Corporation of the crew.]
Serge Baklanov
player, 64 posts
Marine/Scout
Wed 13 Mar 2019
at 10:34
  • msg #109

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Walter Zeller:
"I would like to announce that Vonon will be taking over as Captain".
"Any questions?" he asked.


Serge lifted a glass of sparkling wine to Vonon.
- Cool. Go on, - said Serge to Walter.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:36, Wed 13 Mar 2019.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 34 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Wed 13 Mar 2019
at 11:43
  • msg #110

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Indy arrived at the appointed time, dressed in an elegant white cream suit with sequins, a white blouse and a gold and pearl choker. She'd decided to dress as smartly as she could for the formal dinner. She didn't want to look desperate for work and since her long term goal was to be a trade representative, she needed to look successful.

"A great pleasure to meet all of you. I must say that those are most excellent jumpsuits," she began, "A smart crew is a well performing crew."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 434 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Thu 14 Mar 2019
at 15:23
  • msg #111

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Inderpal Kumar (msg # 110):

"Well, uh, it was a surprise, of course, when Sir Walter approached me about this.  But when he explained how it made more sense, with him being committed to the business aspect--where his experience base was--and me running the ship operations end--which I have a bit of experience with, even if it's only with interplanetary cruisers--so I had to agree."

"I can't really imagine that anything will really change, much, in the day-to-day way we do things--it's managed to work out, so far, so why change things, right?"

"I suppose my first act as Captain will be to welcome Inderpal Kumar aboard.  After a review of your skillset I believe your best fit on the Bridge would be as Comm Officer.  Sharik, you'll continue to wear two hats as Astrogator and Sensor Op.  Sam, as our best starship pilot will continue in that capacity.  Serge, you and Pablo will be Gunners--you'll be in the dorsal turret, Pablo is in the ventral turret.  You will both also be Ship Security, with me, when needed."

"Kheaiftouaw, you've been acting as our Engineer--and you've been doing a fantastic job at it--but recall that you are also interested in Trade.  So I leave it to you, do you wish to continue as the Chief Engineer, or would you prefer to do some other job?  Not to try and influence your decision, but, currently, you are the only member of this crew qualified to do anything in that engine room."

"With Kaengarr leaving, we are now short a Steward.  The Doctor continued on to her destination, so, while many of us have some minimal medic training, we do not have a Ship's Medic.  Also, we have that large number of Drones--which we found so useful in our last endeavor--yet we don't have an assigned Drone Operator.  I'm in process of learning, but so far my skill sucks."

"Sir Walter, anything you'd like to add?"
Walter Zeller
player, 499 posts
Merchant/Noble
Fri 15 Mar 2019
at 02:04
  • msg #112

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"As Vonon said, I will be handling the business end and he will be dealing with the ship. At times, you might see me helping on the bridge or in engineering so I can keep up my certifications. Currently I am working on filling up the cargo so we should be ready to head out in the next day or so.  With that in mind, the cargo that we had when we arrived has been sold, generating a net profit of 1,197,400 credits which has been divided between the former share holders accounts. With the former company closed, we currently have no assets at this time, other than the ship and what we each have in our own personal accounts. Now, everyone should have an updated account balance since this took care of the last sticking point." Sir Walter said as everyone's communicators started to buzz, as the transactions were posted to their accounts.

"That closed out the former Longshot Corporation. Now, who would like to buy in to Longshot Enterprises so we can purchase more cargo and operate this vessel? Each share will be 100,000 cr each. 90% of the money raised will go towards ship operations and the remaining will be for cargo." he suggested.
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 270 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Fri 15 Mar 2019
at 03:49
  • msg #113

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Ain't got nothing else going," Pablo spoke up, "and I sure don't want to hang around this rock very long, so count me in!"

He used his comm to send the 100,000Cr back to Walter... assuming Walter already had the account set up.
Samantha Kilgore
player, 469 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Fri 15 Mar 2019
at 08:15
  • msg #114

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam swallowed the titbits she had been enjoying, and took a sip of water to clear her mouth.

She then raised her glass to Vonun and said "Congratulations V. Umm I mean" she sat up straight as if at attention "Captain" before smiling and putting her glass down.

She leant forward into the table so all could see her and waived a finger at Pablo saying

"Always read the small print Pablo" she said, mock seriously, before turning to Walter.

"I am interested. But what do these shares get us? And what do they mean? In terms that can be understood by those of us whose business experience is limited to making one paycheck last a month, if we can. If I have one share, and you have ten, what does that mean?"

She smiled at Walter as she spoke, and then leant back into her chair, before selecting something else off her plate and taking a bite.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:18, Fri 15 Mar 2019.
Walter Zeller
player, 500 posts
Merchant/Noble
Fri 15 Mar 2019
at 11:32
  • msg #115

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Samantha, if you had one share and I had ten shares, then the pay out would be ten times greater for me than you." Walter said. "As to the shares available, it would depend on how much everyone was willing to invest in to the corporation. Say we floated Longshot Enterprises at 50 Mcr, at 100,000 credits a share, there will be 500 shares available for purchase. Of the money raised, 45 Mcr would go to operating the ship and the rest into a fund to purchase cargo. Knowing my knack for trade, I would be willing to invest 5 to 5.5 mcr of my own money into it, gaining 50 to 55 shares of the company. The shares will be backed by the ship itself. If the vessel is ever sold, then you would gain a percentage based on what you invested into it. These shares will only be available to members of the crew, not any outside entity, so you will not be able to sell them or use them as collateral." he said.

"As for what else you get, you will have a home here on the Longshot until such time as you decide to leave. If that happens, then the remaining crew has the right to buyout your shares at 100,000 a piece, with any remaining shares retained by the corporation. How that will happen has yet to be decided. It could be done by seniority or sold one at a time to those that remain, starting with the president, vice president, etc. getting a chance to purchase a share. repeating the process as needed."  he said, showing how that would work. OOC:Like a circle, going around to all the members of the current crew, one share at a time, starting with the president, until all shares are sold.

"While you are on the Longshot, you will not get paid for what position  you hold on the ship. Your pay is what you get for the sale of cargo. Like we had in the past, half of the net profits would be paid out to the investors, with one quarter going to the cargo fund and the other quarter going back to the ship. As an example, the last cargo was sold for 1,197,400 cr. Half of that is 598,700 cr. If I invest 5 mcr., I would have 50 shares of the 500 that are available, or 10 percent of the shares. I would gain 10% of the profit from the sale or 59,800 cr." he said, looking down at his computer.

"Now, if anyone joins the crew and does not wish or is able to participate in the corporation, they will get paid standard rate for their position. If any income is received, like what we earned from recovering Serge's ship and such, that will be paid out at the same ratio as the cargo or 50%/25%/25%." he said, expecting more questions.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 37 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Fri 15 Mar 2019
at 11:48
  • msg #116

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Inderpal was slightly taken aback at how quickly she was accepted on board. Being assigned Comms Officer would be an excellent use of her diplomatic talents.

Then things moved towards setting up a new corporation and the levels of money involved were rather high. More the sort of budgets one dealt with at a government or major corporation level.

She definitely wanted to get involved in this venture, which could produce a good deal of wealth if it went well. But she was a little short of cash. She didn't want to admit that at first. Not straight away.

"This is a most intriguing and attractive enterprise. I would need to see some data on past profits and likely income streams before I could commit, of of course", she said, in a holding answer.

Also ask the bank if she could get a loan to pay for this. Her credit was probably quite good, but she would need to ask.
Serge Baklanov
player, 65 posts
Marine/Scout
Fri 15 Mar 2019
at 13:31
  • msg #117

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Walter Zeller (msg # 115):

Walter Zeller:
"Your pay is what you get for the sale of cargo. Like we had in the past, half of the net profits would be paid out to the investors, with one quarter going to the cargo fund and the other quarter going back to the ship. As an example, the last cargo was sold for 1,197,400 cr. Half of that is 598,700 cr. If I invest 5 mcr., I would have 50 shares of the 500 that are available, or 10 percent of the shares. I would gain 10% of the profit from the sale or 59,800 cr." he said, looking down at his computer.


- Sounds fine as is, - Serge said. - But, for example, if I invest 1 MCr into Longshot Enterprises shares, then can I invest another 1 MCr directly into speculative trade performed by Longshot Enterprises (so that you could buy trade goods for 1 MCr more above Longshot Enterprises budget). And I get revenue from my first 1 MCr according to your percentage scheme and I get full value of the goods sold for the second 1 MCr (may be excluding some fee for using Longshot Enterprises services)? Is such scheme allowed? If yes then can I buy more Longshot Enterprises shares later? Or too much math and you don’t want to bother with separate investments?..
This message was last edited by the player at 13:33, Fri 15 Mar 2019.
Walter Zeller
player, 502 posts
Merchant/Noble
Fri 15 Mar 2019
at 14:58
  • msg #118

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"To make life a lot easier on me, it would have to go into the corporation. If you want to speculate on your own, you are welcome to do so but you would be handling it yourself, and Longshot Enterprises has the right to allocate cargo space for its own needs first."  Sir Walter said.

"Now, for our newest members, if you do not have enough to invest, you have the option to purchase up one million credits worth of shares that will be held by the company until such time as they are payed off. Half of the profit that you would receive would go towards paying the debt off and you will receive the other half as a dividend. How you spend that will be up to you. You can use it for yourself or towards paying off the shares. Now, to warn you, if you do take that option, you will not be receiving pay for your position as you will be an investor and not a paid crew member. Also, this is for new members that joined us here on Cassandra. Sorry, guys." he added as he looked at the old hands.
Serge Baklanov
player, 66 posts
Marine/Scout
Fri 15 Mar 2019
at 15:20
  • msg #119

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Vonon Ronkunu:
"Serge, you and Pablo will be Gunners--you'll be in the dorsal turret, Pablo is in the ventral turret.  You will both also be Ship Security, with me, when needed."


- Aye-aye, Capt’n! I have already booked a Gunner skill augmentation implant in the local surgery, so I’ll be really good in big guns. But, since as a Gunner I will have nothing to do most of the time (hopefully), I would like to double Sam as a second pilot and to study in the process (OOC: if there is a place on the bridge for the second pilot, of course. Also there is a missing skill in the UPP thread – Serge does have a Pilot skill at 0).
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 271 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Sat 16 Mar 2019
at 05:19
  • msg #120

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Now I'm confused... and have a headache to go with it!" Pablo said.

"I thought we were all getting an equal share of the corporation, whose only asset seems to be the ship, so it was essentially an equal share of the ship. That's how we spacer-types think... shares of a ship. I guess you business types think in terms of corporate shares... as in stocks. I think Samantha's question emphasizes that."

"Rather than have a billion shares at 1Cr each, since there are 10 of us, we each get one share... one EQUAL share... i.e. one-tenth of the ship-slash-corporation."

"That way, all profits are shared equally. Otherwise, someone with only a few shares might be tempted to shoot one of the Big Shareholders in the back."

"Also, when you start shuffling shares around like that, it becomes a lot easier to start embezzling and other crap like that. Not that I'm making any accusations. If I didn't trust all of you already, I wouldn't be hanging around still. I'm just saying, you're opening a really big can of bad worms going about it this way."
Inderpal Kumar
player, 39 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sun 17 Mar 2019
at 20:41
  • msg #121

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Indy listened carefully to all of this and tried to make sure that she remembered as much of it as possible. In the diplomacy business, listening could be just as important as talking, if not more so.

She was probably going to take a salary rather than a dividend, to maintain her regular lifestyle. Ship income in this business could be unreliable for one thing.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:41, Sun 17 Mar 2019.
Serge Baklanov
player, 69 posts
Marine/Scout
Sun 17 Mar 2019
at 20:51
  • msg #122

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

- I have to admit that Pablo has some serious point, - Serge said. - While we are talking about speculative trade, it is OK that the bigger investor gets the bigger share - capitalism sucks, I know. But if we run into some sort of derelict ship, pirate hunting, or other odd job, then there is no matter how big is your purse - we all risk our heads equally, so we have to share the profits equally too. So I would propose to modify Walter's scheme: it is fine while we are in normal trump business, but profits from the "odd jobs" should be shared as Pablo said.
- Also I would add to the "trump business" part such thing: we deduct from the speculative profit ship's operational expenses AND salary which is paid to every member of the ship regardless his/her sharing in Longshot Enterprises.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 605 posts
Aslan outcast
Sun 17 Mar 2019
at 23:38
  • msg #123

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Having filled her plate with a mountain of meat on which Khea is happily chewing on she leans back and let the others figure out the details

"Interested in trade" is not the words I would use.
I am content for now to stay in the engine room and watch out that no one of you wrecks the ship. And as long as we eventually travel counter-spinward I am on board with whatever you are planning.
Walter Zeller
player, 506 posts
Merchant/Noble
Mon 18 Mar 2019
at 01:58
  • msg #124

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"This money that is being raised is so we have the funds to operate it. We have been fortunate to have not had anyone pump a hole in the drives section. If the maneuver drive got damaged to the point that we would have to replace it, that would cost us 36 mcr. for one of them...if we happened to be able to get it to a shipyard. Toss in 72 mcr. for the power plant and 90 mcr. to replace the jump drives. Yes, some of it is to make money by trade but keeping this vessel flying is expensive, and we have not had to fight anything. Let us modify your suggestion Serge. One share for each member of the crew and two shares for the ship for the odd jobs that we get ourselves into." Walter said.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 441 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Mon 18 Mar 2019
at 03:40
  • msg #125

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Walter Zeller (msg # 124):

Vonon had been scratching himself between he ears as the money talk started--he, too had a question or two, and a few observations.

"Okay, while I said that all the business stuff would be Sir Walter's venue, I also don't want to spend too much more time on this.  However...while I'm not an economist or an accountant by any stretch of the imagination, I did once eat a book titled The Economics of Free Traders."

"Okay, Sir Walter, let me make sure I understand what your proposing.  All of us, here, can buy into Longshot Enterprises for 100-grand a 'share'.  Each share entitles the holder to a portion of any profits made from a job, equal to the number of shares possessed, in lieu of any wages--correct?  And if, at some future date, a shareholder should choose to leave Longshot Enterprises, they are required to sell their shares back to Longshot Enterprises at the original price of 100-grand per share--is this also correct?"
Samantha Kilgore
player, 472 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Mon 18 Mar 2019
at 08:32
  • msg #126

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam said nothing, but sat taking it in, eating a few more dainties as she did so.

She checked her account when the money Walter wired came in, and her eyes widened slightly, before she regained her composure.

She sat back, pondering as much what to do with all that money, as much as listening to the conversation, but added nothing much more for now.
Walter Zeller
player, 507 posts
Merchant/Noble
Mon 18 Mar 2019
at 09:43
  • msg #127

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Well Vonon, that is the issue we are working to resolve. The question before us is how to split profits that we earn as a corporation.  About half of us have been operating together since we departed Grendal and have had some interesting adventures. With the amount that we have been paid from closing the old company, we can all retire to a comfortable life...it we were sane. Now this seems to have been a sticking point at the last meeting but I feel that it needs to be resolved before we leave Cassandra. I am still in favor of the money going to the the share holders that buy in for all profits, be it from trade or whatever we do. Let us put it to a vote. The motion is as follows. Option A, all profits will be paid out to the share holders. Option B, the share holders will get paid for trade activities and any other profits will be paid out with each member of the crew getting a share and two shares for the ship fund." Sir Walter said.

"As this was an issue that had not been resolved before we arrived, voting will only be done by those that were on the Longshot when we arrived here in Cassandra and in secret. Send your vote to Kheaiftouaw and she can tally the votes." he added as he entered it into his computer.
Valeska Brandenberg
player, 76 posts
Mon 18 Mar 2019
at 17:53
  • msg #128

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Now hold on a second," Valeska interjects.

"Why are there only two options? It sounds like Option A is screw us and Option B is screw you! Why does someone have to get screwed at all?"

"I understand that you are a capitalist at heart, Walter... in fact, pretty much all of us are--we like money. On the other hand, I think most of us are really here for the adventure, but, if we can get paid for doing that, well, that's great, too."

"You just may be too much of a capitalist."

"It sounds like we need to set up two separate but connected corporations. Corporation A is the ship. We figure out how much we need to operate the ship, including monthly pay for the crew, for, say, 5 years. That's how much money we need to put into it."

"Anything the crew does as a whole... that makes money... that goes into the ship fund from which we all get paid. At the very least, that should give us a longer operating time. At the end of every month, if there's a surplus, 10% of it gets paid out to the crew as a bonus."

"Now, for Corporation B, this is your toy to play with, Walter. That's the entity that buys and sells cargo. It gets funded in the manner you said... shares that people can buy. One of the things that it won't have to do is pay shipping costs, because the Ship Corporation will own shares and get dividend payments whenever the trade is successful."

"This way, everybody gets what they want."

"Anyway, that's my suggestion. Call it Option C."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 443 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Tue 19 Mar 2019
at 03:27
  • msg #129

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Valeska Brandenberg (msg # 128):

"Uhhh, yeah, I suppose that'll work too, I guess." a confused-sounding Vonon agrees, "Though I do like the idea of keeping the ship separate from the venture gains end of things.  It makes sense because that way, if a deal ever blows up big-time, the ship is not on the books as an asset belonging to the company, or corporation, or whatever--it'll be harder to take away from us."

"But the only reason I was asking Sir Walter if I understood his original idea correctly is because that's pretty much the standard Free Trader arrangement--which traces it's origins all the way back various Pirate Articles used on Terra during their Age of Sail."

"See, with Free Traders, a ship isn't a business, it isn't just a means to get around in space--it's their home.  In a way, it's a community, and everyone, sort of, lives by share-and-share alike.  Everyone gets an equal share of any and all profits that the ship community, as a whole, has worked hard to make."

Vonon produces a very canine smile,

"All very equitable and communal sounding, yes?  But Free Traders aren't just wandering communists, they are also merchants who practice capitalism and, more importantly, adhere to a meritocracy when it comes to workload.  So, all members of a Free Trader Crew get 1 equal share of any profits.  But there are also bonuses for the more shipboard responsibility you take on--like, a Free Trader Captain would be given two extra shares, just for being Captain, as would the Ship's Trader-Aboard, then all the Department Heads--Medical, Cargos, Engineering, Housekeeping, etc.-- they would each get one extra share for taking on those extra duties.  Groundlings, and other New Recruit types, would all take an equal portion of 1, single, share.  And, of course, the Ship, itself, gets 3 shares--2 shares are put into the Ship's Operations Account, and another share is put into the Ship's Trading Account.  And these three share are always paid off first, just in case something happens to the money."

Vonon gives a big shrug to go with his smile, "Like I said, the book I ate wasn't about economics or accounting, it was one of those small books that folks call 'Whatever For Dummies', and this one was about hoe Free Traders operate."

"So, just for amusement, if we were to use a Free Trader model, we'd start by assigning 3 shares to the Ship.  We'd then have to haggle over who gets how many shares for doing what job, but for right now, for this demonstration, let's just say that Captain, Trader, Chief Pilot, Chief Engineer, and Chief Steward all get 1 bonus share for doing those jobs--that's 5 more shares assigned.  Then 1 share each can be bought by any member of the Crew--that's up to 9 of us--and Sir Walter has proposed a buy-in price of 100-grand for that 1 share.  And finally, any one on the Crew who does want to, or does not have the credits to, buy-in, doesn't have to--1 share will be set aside to be divided among all non-shareholding crewmembers.  And if there are no non-shareholders, then that 1 share of profit gets folded back into the Ship's Traders Account--which also doubles as Ship's Bank."

"So, assuming all of us here toss in 100-grand to get 1 share, that would be a minimum total of 18 shares.  Three, maybe four, shares go to Ship Accounts, the rest are distributed among the crew.  Now, assume we walk away from a deal with 1-million credits in hand, that 1-million gets divided by 18 shares--about 55,556-thousand per share:
   Ship's Operations Account = 2 shares = 111,111 creds
   Ship's Trading Account = 1 + 1 shares = 111,111 creds (no non-shareholders at this time)
   5 Senior Crew = 1 + 1 shares x 5 = 555,555 creds
   4 Crew = 1 share x 5 = 55,556 creds."

"Now, that's pretty simplistic, but it doesn't deal with interest earned or amortizations or asset accretion, or any of that stuff.  It's pretty flexible, too.  You want to save money or invest further in the trading side of the operation, just buy another share, called a certificate.  Again, it's non-interest bearing, it's just a certificate that you can cash in against the Trading Account, should you ever want 'your' money--or if you ever want to leave the crew."

"And the beauty of the Free Trader model is that we don't have to each have chests full of of hard credits stashed in our quarters, all profit--after paying the Operations Account--gets dumped into the Trading account, and we all get issued certificates for our portion of the profits, redeemable on demand for hard currency.  On average, we'll only ever need about 100-grand aboard for petty cash.  Everything else can be in e-cash, or whatever interstellar traders use between planets."
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 272 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Tue 19 Mar 2019
at 05:36
  • msg #130

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"I've heard of that system before," Pablo said. "Everyone on the ship is equal, but some of the crew are more equal than others."

"To hell with that! This ain't the military with all that time-in-service and time-in-grade crap. Your Free Trader set-up guarantees that someone on the crew will resent their status. You are already telling them that they aren't as important as everyone else and never will be... unless they kill the senior crewmember ahead of them."

"Ditto for anyone new that we might want to bring aboard. 'Oh, yeah, if you join our crew, we'll give you the dregs.' That'll go over so well!"
Serge Baklanov
player, 70 posts
Marine/Scout
Tue 19 Mar 2019
at 11:58
  • msg #131

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Vonon Ronkunu:

"You want to save money or invest further in the trading side of the operation, just buy another share, called a certificate."


- If I understood you correctly, I suppose this is basically "option A". The problem is, if I have spare 10 MCr then I can buy a lot of shares and when I do this, each new share I bought will diminish income of those crew who only has 1 share and no money.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:03, Tue 19 Mar 2019.
Walter Zeller
player, 508 posts
Merchant/Noble
Wed 20 Mar 2019
at 02:00
  • msg #132

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Pablo, what it sounds like you are saying is that you do not merit anyone else's skills that they bring to this vessel, and at worse, you advocate mutiny and murder of the senior officers...is that correct?." Sir Walter said in a low voice.
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 273 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Wed 20 Mar 2019
at 05:12
  • msg #133

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"No, I'm not advocating mutiny and murder," Pablo replies to Walter. "What I'm saying is that the system of shares you and Vonon are proposing would promote that kind of behavior."

"Oh, I'm sure we all like to think we are better than that, that we can and will rise above temptation, but I don't see any good reason why we have to provide that temptation in the first place."

"As for valuing skills, that's a silly claim, Walter. You're looking at the lowest common denominator; I'm talking about a higher value... the value of life. Is one life more important than another? I can tell you for a fact that it don't make no never mind to a bullet! It'll make you dead just as easily as it'll make me dead."

"The problem with valuing skills is having to decide whether piloting skill has more value than cooking skill, whether gunnery skill is more valuable than engineering skill. And it gets worse... is a good cook more valuable than a bad pilot?  Is an average trader better or worse than an average pilot?"

"And what's the value of the best steward in the galaxy if we never have any passengers?"

"You seem to completely miss the point that if you are going to say that one crewmember has more useful skills then you are also saying that some other crewmember isn't as useful or valuable. In other words, someone wins and someone loses. Are you going to be the one that decides which of the crew are losers?"
Inderpal Kumar
player, 40 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Wed 20 Mar 2019
at 10:59
  • msg #134

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Indy decided to intervene at this point. She'd not joined this ship to end up in a long row over the operating procedures of the company.

She took a sip of her wine and then politely ahem-ed.

"Since this ship seems to want to be a democracy, how about a vote on the whole matter? Secret ballot on the shares proposal. One vote each. We don't really want to start this venture with a fracas, do we, ladies and gentlemen."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 444 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Wed 20 Mar 2019
at 20:24
  • msg #135

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Pablo Esteban Ryzov (msg # 133):

Vonon has a thoughtful look on his muzzle as Pablo makes his points; nodding as Pablo makes each point.

"Yes, yes, I see that, now.  I was a little fuzzy following that, when I read the book." Vonon finally says, "Thanks Pablo, old friend, for clearing that up.  You are absolutely right.  I now see the inequity of a Meritocracy type system."

Vonon stands and stretches, "I need a cup of Kaff--my brain is getting fuzzy.  But, it looks like no matter what, we're all going to be pitching in some kind of start-up money, which Sir Walter is going to give us a Share, or something, in exchange for."

Vonon makes a waving away gesture towards Walter, as he heads off the Bridge and out towards the mess hall, "Just go ahead and debit my account for that 100-grand you mentioned earlier, Sir Walter.  That way I'm at least Invested, no matter what we finally decide a share can and cannot do.  I'll be back once I've me a cuppa."
Kheaiftouaw
player, 607 posts
Aslan outcast
Wed 20 Mar 2019
at 23:23
  • msg #136

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Having the role of arbiter so suddenly assigned to her Khea says nothing during the heated discussion, after all thats probably what is expected how an arbiter should act, but gets increasingly nervous as ancient humaniti terms get tossed around and everyone starting to behave like men arguing how spoils of war shall be divided. To distract her from it she stares at her computer, pretending to check on the votes coming in.
Walter Zeller
player, 509 posts
Merchant/Noble
Thu 21 Mar 2019
at 15:52
  • msg #137

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Captain Vonon, there is an urn of Kaff over on the side table." Sir Walter said, motioning towards the table.

"Pablo, a Captain has to make that decision every waking minute. They weigh the persons knowledge and experience to make the ship the best they can.  Someone that might be good at engineering might not be the best for leading the section." he said.

"Now, since there seems to be a disagreement on funding this operation, I withdraw the motion that I had presented. Captain Vonon, I would personally like to lease all of the cargo space aboard the Longshot and the launch, roughly 148 tons, at 1,500 credits a ton, along with high passage for myself. 222,000 for the cargo, 20,000 credits for passage, bringing it to 242,000 credits. With the understanding of two jumps a month to locations that trade can be accomplished, I would like to lease the vessel. I am prepared to make an upfront payment of 1,452,000 credits for three months, with the option to renew every three months thereafter." Sir Walter said, after doing some calculations.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:02, Thu 21 Mar 2019.
Samantha Kilgore
player, 473 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Fri 22 Mar 2019
at 08:22
  • msg #138

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Ships no good without a Pilot, Walter, and you try and strong arm us like that, this Pilot will not be flying anywhere."  Sam says softly. She leans back "Walter, I get what you are trying to do, and I get Pablos objections but we need to resolve this. And Pablo, you don't like this suggestion, go and sign on another ship. See how much they pay you for your skills. The fact is, if we use a market rate then some of us will get paid more than others. If we buy and sell shares in the company, some of us, right now, will be able to buy more right now. But the fact is this ship needs to have money to run. And someone needs to be in charge of that. But we also need to have someone in charge of the ship. Two separate things. So I like the third choice. I think."
Serge Baklanov
player, 71 posts
Marine/Scout
Fri 22 Mar 2019
at 10:16
  • msg #139

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Walter Zeller:
"Now, since there seems to be a disagreement on funding this operation, I withdraw the motion that I had presented. "


- Sir Walter, I have a feeling that you took everything too close to your heart. I am sure Pablo meant no offence and his loyalty is clear from suspicion. Don't seek injury in his words because he is just trying to be free-spoken and is not that careful with the wording as nobles got used to.
- About that your last offer I think it is a good default variant in case if we won't find mutually acceptable agreement. May be we should hear first results of the vote which Khea calculated?
This message was last edited by the player at 10:21, Fri 22 Mar 2019.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 351 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Sat 23 Mar 2019
at 00:45
  • msg #140

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik had remained quiet up until this point.  She seemed less than amused by the prospect that two of her long-time friends had come down on opposite sides of what seemed to be a contentious argument.  And that the many of the rest of the crew seemed to be taking sides.  She listened to others argue and try to make peace in varying degrees.  The cosmopolitan ex-operative knew that passions could run high, it is why she had enjoyed the company of the ex-Marine and Vargr patrolman so much in the past.  But, butting heads was going to be unproductive here.  Though admittedly there seemed to be other (tenuously related) resentments being harbored here, which were bubbling up.  In her experience, those emotions were extremely counter-productive.  They may need to be vented, but not in a discussion about corporate structures necessarily.

She finished typing a note on her dataglove and stood.  Then she noted simply, "Larger brains than ours have tried to reconcile the rift between Capitalism and Communism.  Both have known issues as ideological, political, social, and economic systems."  She glanced around the crowd, at Vonon and Walter, then Pablo, Serge and Sam and then finally Khea, Eveyln, and Indy, letting out a slightly plaintive sigh before continuing, "We aren't going to solve those problems here tonight."  She took a deep breath, "We are all now multi-millionaires now by the fruits of our latest venture."  The auburn-haired astrogator paused thoughtfully before continuing, "Are we considering breaking our fellowship over this issue of any new corporate structure?"  Because the way things were sounding, that was where they were headed; and everyone needed to think about the priorities involved.  Any of them could simply walk away - setup their own shop (terrestrial or otherwise) and play in their own sandbox.  "I, for one," Sharik offered, "would love to continue to work with all of you; I have very much enjoyed our time together.  And with that in mind, I am more than willing to accept any number of models - as it seems that we have been fairly successful so far together."  She honestly felt that others were losing sight of the forest for the trees and that crept into her tone just a smidge.

Though we are getting dangerously close, the diminutive socialite noted to herself, no one has of yet directly threatened another.  And I would like to keep it that way.

"Much as I would like to table this discussion for a bit ... Perhaps we simply need to hash things out." Sam had asked for a little give on each side, which was a start.  "But I will ask for some decorum - for everyone to take a deep breath first." she suggested even as she took in air for a moment to try and center herself; Shar knew it was only a request for a pause, but a cooling off seemed prudent.  Everyone would need to figure out just what they really wanted to do with their portion of the dissolved corporation.

And while she knew that Walter had intended for the positive glow from the previous division of spoils to flow into their new venture - but that didn't seem to be the case; so, for Sharik it was time to cut that off.  She held up a tumbler with Sylean brandy and took a sip of the smooth, blue liquid while to contemplated for a moment.  She honestly didn't know how to continue though; both sides wanted different things - a compromise needed to be reached.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 41 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sat 23 Mar 2019
at 22:22
  • msg #141

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Indy listened to Sharik's comments and decided not to say that she wasn't yet a multi-millionaire. If these people were that rich, then this was clearly a successful enterprise... and one that someone might well target.
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 274 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Sun 24 Mar 2019
at 03:19
  • msg #142

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Pablo frowned a bit at Walter's latest proclamation, and then again at Sharik's comment... but not because he disagreed with her but because he realized she was right and the frown was meant for himself.

"I apologize, Walter, if I didn't express myself properly, but, I have to say that your response seems to indicate that you don't value anyone else's opinion."

"And, Sam, it's not about getting paid for skills... it's about each of us being equal, which with Walter's initial proposal we aren't."

"So, what was wrong with Valeska's suggestion?"
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 446 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sun 24 Mar 2019
at 04:19
  • msg #143

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Inderpal Kumar (msg # 141):

"Hey, now!" Vonon objects from over by the Kaff urn, as he adds creamer and a couple of dollops of molasses to a mug of the Vilani beverage,

"Just because I suddenly agree with my friend Pablo--who was, admittedly, raised in the socialist dictatorship of the Carrillian Assembly--does not mean I have become a Communist, my dear friend Sharik!  Despite my oh-so-suave Imperial mannerisms, I am still a Vargr, you know!"

Vonon raises his cup of Kaff and shouts, "All for The Pack, and The Pack for All!!"

Vonon brings down his Kaff mug, takes a sip, and nods,  "It's a communal attitude, not a Communist attitude.  And if you keep forgetting that distinction it will--literally--bite you in the ass."

Vonon walks over and re-takes his seat.

"Okay, look, forget everything.  Let's restart by me asking the assembled knuckleheads--can we all agree that, no matter how we get there, what we all want is a share-and-share-alike end result?  Do any of you see it differently?"

"No matter how much, or how little, profit we make, if any--do we all agree that we want to share in it equally?  For right now--don't consider 'who did how much' or 'who invested more than anyone else', just decide upon the end result--do we want to share-and-share-alike, or do we want to work out some complicated profit sharing structure where we have to deal with 'who invested what'."

"So, all of you, answer just that one question, please.  In the end, do you want this to be a share-and-share-alike in all profits kinda thing?"
Kheaiftouaw
player, 608 posts
Aslan outcast
Sun 24 Mar 2019
at 23:20
  • msg #144

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

With the voting being cancelled Khea stashes her computer while muttering "This is why we don't let men run things"

Looking at the assembled group she continues. "We do not have a clan backing us so we ourselves need to provide everything for the ship to function. That includes maintenance, upgrades, fees and money for cargo. And of course we need people to fly it, plot and execute jumps and get us out of trouble in case we encounter them.

So someone who can provide any of that, either money or skill, is welcome to stay. As for dividing the income we simply pay each of us the standard wage or whatever rate you feel comfortable with with the rest goes into the ship and investment budget."
Serge Baklanov
player, 72 posts
Marine/Scout
Mon 25 Mar 2019
at 13:48
  • msg #145

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Vonon Ronkunu:
"So, all of you, answer just that one question, please.  In the end, do you want this to be a share-and-share-alike in all profits kinda thing?"


Serge sighed.
- I think we run in circles. Okay, captain, I'll explain my point of view once again. My position is not simple "yes" or "no". I think we need a compromise so that our benefits were equal enough and Sir Walter wasn't demotivated to invest into Longshot Enterprises and was able to yield proper interest from his investments. This is option "B" from the initial Walter's poll, which is very close to option "C" which Valeska offered.

- I guess Sir Walter finds option "B" acceptable enough since he included it in the poll, but I didn't get if Pablo is OK with that too. I would like you two, Sir Walter and Pablo, tell me what is not acceptable in my offer which I will describe in details below. If we will not get compromise here between you two, I think I will quit this discussion and conform with whatever captain decides.

- So, my offer. We have two budgets. First, and default for a start, is the "speculative budget". This is basically simple "how much you invested, that much you got" scheme. We all chip in available sums, let's say for example, it will be one major investor with 10 MCr and ten minor investors with 1 MCr each, so we have 20 MCr in the speculative budget. We buy goods, we fly to another system, we sell goods, we get profit, let's assume we are lucky and got 10% (2 MCr) income in our speculative budget. We deduct operational costs (fuel, repairs, etc) and flat wages from this income - I think the latter is important, because every member of the crew should have fixed standard guaranteed salary. Let's say operational costs and wages totaled 0.5 MCr so finally we have 1.5 MCr to split between investors - following the example, 0.75 MCr will go to major investor and each minor investor will get 75 000. Then we repeat. And every investor has option to increase/decrease his share in Longshot Enterprises as sees fit.

- But, also we have a "common budget". This one accumulates income from the other sources aside from speculative trade. And every member has equal share in it. Let's say for example we blasted a pirate and got a 10 MCr bounty on his head. If there are 12 of us, every crew member gets plain 1/12 of the bounty, or 0.833 MCr, no matter how large was his share in the speculative budget (even if zero). Of course one can transfer his spoils of war into the speculative budget later.

My offer is flexible for additional options, which we can settle by simple voting after we agree upon basics. To name a few:
1) Shares in the "common budget" can shift from "equal" to "almost equal" and can be adjusted as we see fit (like Vonon was offering). For example, tradition requires that captain should have more shares, I'm fine with that.
2) When/if we get incomes suitable for the "common budget", we can discuss in details from which budget we should deduct operational costs and wages.
3) We can allow "credit share" in the "speculative budget" for the new crew members who have no capital yet (like Sir Walter was offering in the very beginning).
4) We can decide also if the ship should have its separate shares from any of the two budgets.
5) The "standard guaranteed salary" I mentioned above is the one from the open market, which is:
Pilot 6000
Navigator 5000
Engineer 4000
Steward 2000
Medic 4000
Gunner 2000
Marine 2000
but we can modify this as we see fit too.

- A special note for Pablo - why we cannot simply split all incomes equally: because speculative trade is a gamble. Following the example above: okay, it is nice if we get 1.5 MCr net profit and we can share it between 12 crew members, including those who didn't invest, but what if we were damaged by a pirate and repairs net us total 12 MCr loss - shall we split 12 MCr loss between each crew member too? Even between those, who have no spare 1 MCr?..
This message was last edited by the player at 13:58, Mon 25 Mar 2019.
Walter Zeller
player, 510 posts
Merchant/Noble
Wed 27 Mar 2019
at 15:54
  • msg #146

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sir Walter looked over at Serge and pondered for a moment before replying. "I find that it is better to get this aspect of running a group operation done before doing anything else. Finances are the biggest concern, from the smallest tramp freighter to a megacorp. Since there was no definitive answer at the meeting held while we were in jump space, I feel it needs to be done, which is why I called you all here." he said.

"As to Pablo suggestion, I can not buy into a plan where someone that does not contribute to the ship funds, gets the same pay as someone that put in 5 million credits. I am better off putting in the minimum amount as I am not going to get any more in return. The minimum investment for the maximum return." he said, flipping his right hand palm upwards as he swept it towards the assembled members.

"Now, the question is, what plan do we wish to use and how much does everyone wish to buy in? Plan A, it would be based on how many shares that an individual purchases. You do not buy in? You get paid as a standard crew member. To me, that is the simplest option as you get what you pay into it and you have a risk based on your investment." he said.

"Plan B, the funds raised will only be used to fund trade operation, with half the earnings going to the investors and the other half split up between the ship for its use and to increase the funds for trading. Any income earned from anything outside of trading will be split up equally between the crew members along with two shares for the ship. That would preclude any investment into the ship other than what is earned from its cut from trade."

"As to Valeska's Plan C, that is an option have separate companies, one for the ship and the other for trading but that still brings up the issue of how much is needed. As an example of the money needed to run this vessel for 5 years, it would require 39,031,000 credits just for maintaining the ship over that time period, not counting any battle damage repairs or upgrades. Add in 2,000 credits a month per stateroom for life support, and the salary for the positions, with most of us qualifying as Pilots, it would run say 100,000 a month, so tack on an additional 6 million credits over that time period. We would need to fund the ship portion to the tune of roughly 9 million credits a year. We would have to earn that much just to break even."

"Now, if you have your concerns about this not being equal, you can propose a motion Pablo as to how many shares a person can hold in the company." Sir Walter said.
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 275 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Wed 27 Mar 2019
at 18:32
  • msg #147

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Thank you, Walter," Pablo responded. "I think Serge may have the right of it: we're mostly all saying the same thing, but each of us is saying it in a different way."

"I think we're also getting hung up on the term 'share' as each us seems to have a different definition for it, and, in fact, there are many different kinds of shares."

"No offense, Walter, but you seem to want to just smush everything together. I suppose that's one way of doing it, but the problem I have with that is that if the trading goes belly-up, we could lose the ship. Thus, Valeska's proposal--rather than the corporation owning the ship, the ship should own the corporation. Or at least part of it."

"So now we come back to the ship. The ship is our business. The 'equal part' comes in because we are all equal partners in the ownership of the ship. That's where you've been getting confused, Walter--you're mixing the ownership with the operations."

"I'm not sure what a fair wage or salary would be, but based on Serge's numbers, I'd suggest each member of the crew gets paid 6,000Cr a month. If you want to then award more bonus pay for certain skills, then maybe drop the salary to 5,000 a month."

"Sure, while we're bopping around in space, landing, taking off, matching vectors and all that crap, I'm the first one to admit that we'd be better off if we had a 1st rate pilot. But, if all else fails and we get boarded, that 1st-rate pilot is just another target. That's when I'd really wish we had a 1st-rate Marine!"

"While I understand the concept of ratings, I also know that it isn't as cut and dried as you might think. Not everyone wants to be the leader in the band. I've seen too many instances where the lowest rank was the hardest worker and the most competent. The officer's role wasn't to do the work but to tell the private to do it. And to take the blame when things went wrong. Sure, that's part of leadership, but it's also functional only in a bureaucracy. And I'm pretty sure that's not what we want here."

"So... equal partners in the ship. We get equal base pay. Any awards or rewards is on top of or beyond that."

"I also realize that the standard business model for a new business is to have sufficient working capital to function for 5 years without showing a profit. And then, if you still aren't showing a profit at the end of those 5 years, well, it's time to close the business. Or maybe get new management or new investors."

"But, I also know that a lot of businesses start out on a shoestring and manage to succeed anyway. In our case, we're somewhere in between. At least, that's my opinion."

"So, while it might take 9 megacredits for a year of operation, that's also saying we don't make any money in that time. Based on our operations so far, I don't see that happening."

"Next we come to the 'corporation'... that capitalist economic entity that does the trading. That has shares. Anyone who wants to buy into it can fork over the bucks for as many shares as they want... or can afford."

"I'd suggest, however, that the ship company owns 10% of the shares. If Walter makes money with the corporation... presumably as the CFO... then that's part of the ship's income. Now, I said 10%... not 10 shares, but 10% of however many shares there are in the corporation."

"Does that clarify things for everyone?"

Well, that was the best he could do... without pulling out his gun and start shooting. Not even a nuclear sledgehammer can penetrate a closed mind.

Of course, now he was wondering why he'd even spoke up in the first place. It's not like he was bucking for a leadership role!
Serge Baklanov
player, 73 posts
Marine/Scout
Wed 27 Mar 2019
at 19:52
  • msg #148

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Walter Zeller:
"Plan B, the funds raised will only be used to fund trade operation, with half the earnings going to the investors and the other half split up between the ship for its use and to increase the funds for trading. Any income earned from anything outside of trading will be split up equally between the crew members along with two shares for the ship. That would preclude any investment into the ship other than what is earned from its cut from trade."


- Nope. I see your concern, and may be I was not explicit enough, but since we have control over the "speculative budget", we can decide which part will go to ship upgrades (sub-option #4 from my expanded explanations). Continuing my example: after we chipped in 20 MCr we decided that before we start trading operations, we should upgrade the ship by 5 MCr. Each investor will lose 25% of income but I am sure everyone will go for it knowing that ship's survivability increased twice.

- By the way, Pablo: what you offered is almost exactly what my option B is.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 609 posts
Aslan outcast
Wed 27 Mar 2019
at 21:46
  • msg #149

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Maybe, might, you should really start to calculate how much ship operations, including the salary you intend to pay out, costs each year before throwing numbers around."
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 276 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Wed 27 Mar 2019
at 21:53
  • msg #150

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Right, as you said... same thing," Pablo answered. "The ship should have an operating fund and a contingency fund. Whatever we decide the start-up capital for the Longshot should be... say, for 6 months operation--might be more manageable than the full year, we each contribute 1/10th of that amount."

"We can't possibly anticipate every problem that might crop up, though, so it'd be silly to try and cover that."
Samantha Kilgore
player, 474 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Thu 28 Mar 2019
at 08:28
  • msg #151

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam sat forward, and nodded as Serge spoke "That sounds good to me. The ship is run separately and we all get paid a salary. I'm not that bothered if it reflects skills or not. But then the trade profit you get is based on how much you invested. I think thats a good compromise. With one caveat. Ship side its all equal shares. Captain or anyone doesn't get more. If we need to differentiate on that side, we do it by salary, not shares. Thats my thoughts anyway."

Sam stood up and stretched a little before taking her now empty plate to load up on some more food "Thanks for the spread Walter. Very nice."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 448 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Thu 28 Mar 2019
at 10:51
  • msg #152

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Samantha Kilgore (msg # 151):

Vonon also regains his feet, as Sam heads for the sideboard.  He takes a long pull from his kaff mug, emptying it, then sets it down and grabs his jacket from the back of his chair.

"I agree with Sam, Sir Walter, thank you." Vonon starts putting on his jacket, "A most excellent meal--superior, after a couple of weeks of ship-board synth-foods and vat-grown meals."

His jacket on, Vonon heads for the door of the private dining room--but stops before opening the door and turns to address the room.

"This ridiculous arguing over what should be a simple commercial endeavor has given me a headache, so I am going out to get some air, then returning to the ship.  Sir Walter, by local morning tomorrow, you can expect all those credits you wired into my account transferred back to the account you sent them from--short six-grand I'm keeping for walking-around money.  I wish those monies to be used by you on behalf of the ship and our business endeavors, so I also give you permission to use it thusly."

"The moment I set foot on the deck of the Longshot, I will immediately assume the position of Captain of that vessel, in accordance with both the agreement Sir Walter and I have already worked out, as well as according to regulations as set down by the Imperial Spacers Guild.  From that point onward I expect to be paid according to the requisite pay rate for a Civilian Commercial Captain, as dictated by the current Imperial Spacers Guild pay rate listings."

"While I will do my best to live within that pay scale, should I ever request a withdrawal of any amount, for any reason, from the funds Sir Walter is controlling on all our behalves, I will be given such of those funds designated as my 'share' as soon as is possible.  No arguments, and I'll only tolerate a minimum of discussion over my reasons or needs for any such withdrawal."

Vonon turns and presses the door command, opening the door, then turns back to the group, "Beyond that, I don't give a frelling yotz what the rest of you set up.  I'm just going to run the ship, give all my creds to whatever mercantile abortion you all put together, and take out as much of my piece of the action as I want, whenever I want."

"And I expect to be given said funds whenever I ask for them...rather than having to take them when I want them."

Vonon gives a casual wave, "Good evening, everyone." Vonon then gives a small bow of his head towards Walter, "Sir Walter."

Then he steps out into the main TAS restaurant, and heads towards the exit.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 42 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Thu 28 Mar 2019
at 12:03
  • msg #153

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Inderpal Kumar, having seen Vonon Ronkunu storm out like that, decided that it was immediately time to lighten the rather fractious mood with a joke.

She looked around and raised her eyebrows.

"Wow. I'd hate to see him when he's actually angry."
Serge Baklanov
player, 74 posts
Marine/Scout
Thu 28 Mar 2019
at 21:38
  • msg #154

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Inderpal Kumar:
"Wow. I'd hate to see him when he's actually angry."


- He is nice unless he is hungry, - Serge winked ;)

Serge was sad that Vonon abandoned conversation so abruptly. But it seems that others started seeing rational kernel in his offer.

- Anyway... I am sure we can elaborate a mutually comfortable solution, - Serge continued conversation with Walter. - Let's modify our option "BC" until you find it reasonable. Or, rather, option "ABC", because my option "B" will be naturally your option "A" in the beginning, and probably will last in that phase for some time unless we already have a patron for the odd job right now.
StarMaster
GM, 912 posts
Fri 29 Mar 2019
at 06:29
  • msg #155

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

As Vonon stalks out of the private dining room, he runs smack into a tall human with salt-and-pepper hair and blue eyes who looked as if he was about to knock on the door to the room.

Despite the man's height, Vonon catches him off guard and knocks him to the ground.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 610 posts
Aslan outcast
Fri 29 Mar 2019
at 22:07
  • msg #156

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Trying to ignore the posturing of the men in the room Khea grabs her computer she just put away a moment ago and starts calculating the actual expenses of the ship for a year.
After all someone has to do actual work...

OOC: Too tired for now, will do calculations tomorrow
Horatio Aubrey
player, 4 posts
Sat 30 Mar 2019
at 12:38
  • msg #157

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Aubrey picks himself up.  He is tall, probably just under 2 meters, but thin. He does not look angry or even annoyed at being knocked down.   Aubery looks at Vonon then the room behind him.  When he speaks his voice is a rich baritone.

"Pardon the interruption.  I am looking for the crew and officers of the Longshot.  I was told that they would be here."

OOC: Trying to find a color for the text that has not been taken.  Hopefully Godenrod works.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 450 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sat 30 Mar 2019
at 15:17
  • msg #158

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Horatio Aubrey (msg # 157):

     "Yeah?  Well you have my sympathies--you've found us.  I'm the Captain--for the moment--and everyone else is still in there..." Vonon points at the now-closed door, "They should finish up just a little bit before the universe succumbs to entropic heat death."

     Vonon pauses and shakes his head to clear his thoughts,

     "My apologies, Citizen--both for the attitude and the failure to see you as I left the room." Vonon says in his decent, but slightly 'growly' Imperial Anglic, "I am on my way back to the ship, but if you will allow, I would by you a drink to compensate for the minor assault--but I really must be going."
     "Won't you join me at the bar, Citizen?"
Horatio Aubrey
player, 5 posts
Sat 30 Mar 2019
at 15:57
  • msg #159

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Vonon Ronkunu (msg # 158):

Of course Captain. Do you have time to talk during this drink?
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 451 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sat 30 Mar 2019
at 21:06
  • msg #160

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Horatio Aubrey:
In reply to Vonon Ronkunu (msg # 158):

"Of course Captain. Do you have time to talk during this drink?"

     The Vargr ship captain's blue eyes glance side-to-side in an almost-paranoid manner.  The Vargr stands about average height--maybe a bit over a meter-and-a-half--with a trim, athletic build--no more than 70-kilos, if Horatio had to guess. The Vargr's pelt is a short-length, solid 'rust', or reddish-brown, colored fur that is a little thicker on the top of his head, with a hint of gray fur in the hair along the sides of his muzzle.

     The Vargr captain seems to be dressed well enough--for a Vargr.  Typically, he's wearing clothing in extremely bright colors--a fluorescent banana-yellow shirt with a mandarin collar over hunter-green trousers tucked into a pair of fancy, polished black spacer's boots with silver-tipped toes and heels.
     Over this outfit he wears a black, waist-length, synth-leather jacket trimmed with silver piping.  The style or cut of this jacket seems somehow familiar to Horatio--like he'd seen some other jackets, somewhere, that look very much like it.
     Being a Navy Man, himself, Horatio recognizes the wear patterns on the hem of the jacket--one wear pattern over each hip--as being locations where weapons have often rubbed against the jacket hem.  Very often.

*sigh* "Fine, of course." Vonon says, moving to lead Horatio towards the bar, "But make it quick, will you please?  I really must get out of sigh--I mean, get back to the ship."

Stepping into an empty spot at the bar, the Vargr turn to Horatio,

"Very well, Citizen, name your drink and start talking."
Inderpal Kumar
player, 44 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sun 31 Mar 2019
at 11:35
  • msg #161

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Inderpal got up from her seat and moved over to the bar to introduce herself to the new arrival, waiting for a convenient moment to do so.

When the collision had occurred outside, she'd turned to take a look, but had decided not to rush in without seeing what the situation was first. Diplomats don't rush, it's undignified.
Horatio Aubrey
player, 6 posts
Sun 31 Mar 2019
at 20:30
  • msg #162

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Horatio looks at the bartender "Susnur ale please."

"My name is Horatio Aubry, late of the Imperial Navy and I'm looking for a berth."

He puts up his hands, palms towards Vonon to try to forestall his immediate refusal.

"I do have some information that from one of my friends that said would interest your crew to help easy the awkwardness of my request."

He pauses to see if Vonon will allow him to continue.

OOC: People who have been in the Navy long enough might have heard the last name in connection to an Rear Admiral Aubrey.  People in the Navy the last 4 years might have heard of Horatio in connection to a fleet action around Antairtic.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 611 posts
Aslan outcast
Sun 31 Mar 2019
at 22:48
  • msg #163

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Khea, ever not the diplomat, looks up from her computer she had just turned on and musters the newcomer with a stern gaze and lowly growling in his direction.

"And who is this now?"
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 453 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Mon 1 Apr 2019
at 03:03
  • msg #164

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Kheaiftouaw (msg # 163):

OOC:  I don't want to stall the "fun", or anything, but just how is everyone seeing what's happening through a solid wall, a closed door, and across a semi-busy public dining room?
     Not to be picky--but hey, it's me!  You should expect this, by now!--but while StarMaster's post said Vonon had bumped into Horatio almost as soon as he stepped out the door, and while it was not mentioned specifically in Vonon's next post that the sci-fi style automatic door would have closed automatically, I think it's safe to assume that it would have??
     After all, we only hit each other, we didn't crash into the door--in fact, it was Horatio, the guy on the outside who went down!  Vonon, the guy standing "in front of" the door, with his back to it, did not go down.  So from inside the private dining room, all anyone might have seen is Vonon step out the door, pause after stepping through the door, bend over as to pick up something from off the floor, then move on.
     Bah!  Mumble-grumble-momble-gromble…

     "Well, Citizen Horatio Aubrey-late-of-the-Imperial-Navy, before I go any further, I've got two questions I'd like you to answer." Vonon says in a slightly harried manner, keeping an eye on the surrounding crowd.

     "First, why would you think the Longshot is hiring?  Because we haven't put up any notices advertising any need, not even with the local TAS."

     "And secondly, who is this so-called friend of yours who seems to know the crew of the Longshot so damn well that--she, you said?--could give you info that she knows would pique our interests?"
StarMaster
GM, 914 posts
Mon 1 Apr 2019
at 03:43
  • msg #165

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

The double doors were into a private dining room and had partial windows in them. If someone was requiring extra privacy, the glass could be opaqued. No one had done so because no one saw any reason to do so. When Vonon left, he'd only pushed the one door open, and while he may have been expecting the door to close behind him, it didn't. So, not only could anyone in the dining room have seen Vonon run into Aubrey through the open door but could also have done so through the glass of the door.

It's not unreasonable for Khea to have overheard the conversation.

The private dining room was right off to the side of the bar, so Vonon and Aubrey didn't have to go far to reach the bar.

Only Inderpal has joined them at the bar so far.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 454 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Mon 1 Apr 2019
at 04:05
  • msg #166

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to StarMaster (msg # 165):

OOC: yeah, yeah...I'm just in a pissy mood.  Low blood sugar.  I didn't get to eat until right after I posted that.  I'm feeling much angrier now ^_^
Samantha Kilgore
player, 475 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Mon 1 Apr 2019
at 15:41
  • msg #167

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam watched Vonun go and shook her head.

"So with Vonun gone, how about we work out how were going to set this thing up. Then we can tell him how his money is going to be spent, along, probably, with a fair chunk of mine."
Valeska Brandenberg
player, 77 posts
Mon 1 Apr 2019
at 16:26
  • msg #168

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"I must have dozed off for a moment there," Valeska said. "I thought we'd just agreed."

"Or maybe we should ask: does anyone object to that system--equal ship partnership and separate corporate shares set-up?"
Horatio Aubrey
player, 7 posts
Mon 1 Apr 2019
at 20:22
  • msg #169

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt


I did not know if you were hiring.  I was hoping my information and skills would make me an addition to your crew.  As for my contact, he goes by the name of Lucky Seven.  I did not think he was that effeminate to be called a she.  When I left the service and was looking for a job, he thought the crew of the Longshot would be interested in the information, thus possibly giving me a job.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 455 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Tue 2 Apr 2019
at 03:01
  • msg #170

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Horatio Aubrey (msg # 169):

"Your skills, huh?  And you said you'd been with the Navy? Vonon asks through a frown, "And just whose Navy would that be, then?  And what did you do, there?  Were you an Engine Wiper?  We could really use an Engine Wiper.  Not much need of anything else."
Horatio Aubrey
player, 8 posts
Tue 2 Apr 2019
at 11:01
  • msg #171

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"I'm afraid I would be a poor engine wiper. I was never assigned to Engineering on any ship I served.  I was a line officer or on a staff of one my entire career.  I picked up a variety of skills as you might expect."

He pauses to take a gulp of beer.

"I am decent at electronics.  I have, at various times in my navy career plotted jumps, piloted the ship, operated a ships gun, negotiated a peace, commanded my ship in combat.  I grew up on Carrill so I am well versed in the use of a Vac suit."
Inderpal Kumar
player, 45 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Tue 2 Apr 2019
at 11:26
  • msg #172

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Inderpal continued to watch the rather fractious job interview. Hers had been a lot more pleasant, but then again she hadn't been interviewed by this guy, who clearly was in need for a good spa weekend.

Also, he could probably do some real damage to her if she interrupted.
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 277 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Tue 2 Apr 2019
at 19:07
  • msg #173

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"You all know what I think," Pablo said while still in the dining room. "I'm in favor of the two-corporation set up."

"We may have some business already."

He gets up from the table and heads out to the bar, snagging something from the buffet table as he went.

"If you want to impress Vonon here," he says to the newcomer, "first ply him with chocolate chip cookies."

As he said it, he dropped a plate of said cookies in front of Vonon.

"The name's Pablo Ryzov. Did I hear you mention the name, Lucky Seven?"

He gave Vonon a pointed stare. That was one of the names on the various transponders scattered around the ship. Supposedly, she'd been an owner at some point in the past... probably back when it was an IIS black ship.
Horatio Aubrey
player, 9 posts
Wed 3 Apr 2019
at 01:07
  • msg #174

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Horatio Aubrey." he says nodding to Pablo.  "Lucky is an old friend."
Kheaiftouaw
player, 613 posts
Aslan outcast
Wed 3 Apr 2019
at 09:07
  • msg #175

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

With half the people storming out Khea is getting frustrated and puts her computer she just booted up away. Again.
"Having two corporations for a single tiny ship is needlessly complicated. But I know better to get in the way when men want to stake their claim.

And with everyone leaving I guess we have to do it like back at home when we have to come up with a working plan later and then have to convince everyone that this is what they agreed on in the first place.

So much for things being different outside the Hierate."

OOC: Sorry, I assumed that the bar means a bar un our soace and not the public bar.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:11, Wed 03 Apr 2019.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 457 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sun 7 Apr 2019
at 23:51
  • msg #176

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Pablo Esteban Ryzov (msg # 173):

[AT THE PUBLIC BAR]   <-- Don't forget this, Guys!

Vonon picks up one of the chocolate chunk cookies from the plate and holds it up accusingly before Pablo's face.

"Dammit, Pablo!" Vonon hisses in his growly-accent, "How many times do I have to tell you that the majority of us Vargr have severe gastric reactions to chocolate!"

Vonon proceeds to toss the entire cookie into his maw and chomp down on it.

"Eben da malless mount kin hawss yukin an iyahreyah!" Vonon says around the cookie, as he chews it up, then swallows, licking his chops after.

"Enough chocolate will kill a Vargr, you know.  You trying to kill your new Captain, there, Pablo?  Committing mutiny this early, are you?" Vonon accuses--then stuffs another chocolate chip cookie into his mouth--and glares at Pablo while he chews it up.
Samantha Kilgore
player, 476 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Mon 8 Apr 2019
at 07:23
  • msg #177

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Responding to Valeska, Sam said "We discussed it, not sure we formally agreed, but iots looking like that is going to be what happens. And if you need a formal agreement, then I say "Aye"!"

She looked over at Walter "I guess with the captain going, this meeting is effectively over? Thanks again for the food - very nice. in fact." Sam wanders over to the buffet and grazes a little longer
Inderpal Kumar
player, 47 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Mon 8 Apr 2019
at 10:06
  • msg #178

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Vonon Ronkunu:
"Enough chocolate will kill a Vargr, you know.  You trying to kill your new Captain, there, Pablo?  Committing mutiny this early, are you?" Vonon accuses--then stuffs another chocolate chip cookie into his mouth--and glares at Pablo while he chews it up.


Inderpal saw this reaction and decided to go over to introduce herself. Vonon seemed to have a distinctive taste for danger that she rather liked.

"If the Captain himself is engaged in gross misconduct, that's barratry. Anyway, I hope that you vomit in an appropriate place in your new role. Puking Captains on the Bridge, not stylish."

She offered her hand.

"Inderpal Kumar, your new Comms Officer."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 458 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Mon 8 Apr 2019
at 12:43
  • msg #179

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Inderpal Kumar (msg # 178):



"I remember.  I just signed you on only a few minutes ago." Vonon says, grabbing a nearby napkin, wiping crumbs from his hands, and shaking Inderpal's hand.

"And who says I'm gonna puke?" Vonon adds, stuffing another chocolate chunk cookie in his maw, "Rook arowd!" Vonon gestures out at the clientele of the restaurant, "Ah-moat terdy 'cent 'o *gulp!* ah...almost thirty percent of the population of the Belt are Vargr, with the highest demographic of them residing right here, at Rockport."

"So take a wild guess what that means?" Vonon asked, as he grabbed another cookie and saluted Inderpal with it, before he chomped down on it.

"An roo!" Vonon points an accusing finger at Horatio, then swallows the cookie, "You better come up with a better story than somebody whose name I don't recall told you this ship was signing on crew--because we aren't.  So if you want a berth on this ship, it'll take a better story that!  The Galloping Carrillian Neo-Socialist, here, seems to have some sympathy for you."

Vonon gestures at Pablo,

"Maybe you should step back and work on your story with him, then try me again later.  If your lucky, those idiots back there in the dining room will keep pissing me off, and I might kill a couple of them--so I might actually hire you."
Sharik Kaagira
player, 353 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Tue 9 Apr 2019
at 06:06
  • msg #180

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik shrugged slightly and put a gentle, commiserating hand on Khea’s shoulder for a brief moment.  “There are a couple of legal offices towards the financial district on the station,” she noted off-hand, “I’ll look into getting some official documents drafted and approved along with the proper financials.”. In theory, it was her job as corporate secretary ... of sorts.  If that corporation still existed.  It didn’t seem to her that any of the crew had the actual legal experience or certification to do anything with the proper verbiage and weight anyways.  Her limited experience had always lead to the fact that the Imperial Bureaucracy (and they intended to operate at least part time in Imperial Space) required everything in triplicate.

As for the storming out of the Captain, Sharik couldn’t do much about the situation or her friend’s temperament.  The vagaries of being a Vargr, she suspected and him bucking the new found craziness that he’d consigned himself to.  The crew was likely gaggle of geese - impossible to herd properly, sometimes.  She grabbed a couple of petit fours before getting ready to head back to her room.  It was only then that she realized there was a commotion just outside.  And then, that the (after) party seemed to be moving out there.

The diminutive socialite thanked Walter for his hospitality, and tried to assure him (quickly as she noted the situation developing outside), that everything would work out okay.  The crew just needed a moment to digest things (figuratively and literally, she suspected).   Sharik also noted she’d look into getting documents drafted for the two limited liability corporations, impartial legalese beyond either of their expertises to create was likely to be necessary to satisfy the masses.  She also asked Sir Zeller if would care to meet later for a drink or a walk - she knew the station pretty well now, having had the refresher from Inderpal earlier; Shar figured that either might do the expert broker a bit of good.

Shaking her head with a slightly bemused expression crossing her cosmopolitan features, the auburn-haired astrogator tossed back a quick sip from her tumbler before heading out of the room.  Recognizing that Vonon was still extremely agitated (though, food and Pablo seemed to help a bit), she pushed her way towards the bar.  Sharik hung back for just a bit, to let Indy have her say.  And gauge just how cagey the new Captain was going to be.  She motioned to the bartender to give the group another round - at the very least, it would help wash down the chocolate; Shar downed the last of her delectable, gold-laced finger foods that she’d pilfered from Walter’s spread.
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 278 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Tue 9 Apr 2019
at 17:56
  • msg #181

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Of course, I know what that means!" Pablo responds to Vonon, not quite sure if the question was directed at him or Inderpal.

"It means a great trade opportunity! We could corner the market on chocolate chip cookies! And here you keep blathering about Water. Wait! That'd be like beer nuts at a bar--something salty to make customers drink more beer! We sell the cookies cheap and then sell the water at a much higher price to wash down the cookies!"

"Ha! I guess that's why we made you captain!"
Sylvester Jinx
player, 14 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Tue 9 Apr 2019
at 18:23
  • msg #182

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Hello, stopping by to check in. Sharik here, or Count Cromwell?"
This message was last edited by the player at 19:48, Tue 09 Apr 2019.
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 279 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Tue 9 Apr 2019
at 19:14
  • msg #183

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Hello," Pablo replied, thinking Sylvester was from the TAS Hotel staff. "We're doing fine. Our little celebratory banquet is just winding down."

"To be honest, I think it was getting a little stuffy in there. Guess it's something you have to get used to... living on an asteroid. I mean, it's not like you can step outside for some fresh air now, can you?"
Sylvester Jinx
player, 15 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Tue 9 Apr 2019
at 19:49
  • msg #184

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"No, you can't exactly step outside, Sharik or Count Cromwell in?"
Kheaiftouaw
player, 616 posts
Aslan outcast
Tue 9 Apr 2019
at 22:09
  • msg #185

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

With everyone leaving there is no sense in staying, so Khea earmarks some of her funds to transfer to the companies accounts once Sharik finishes the paperwork, grabs a few more slices of meat out from the buffet and joins the others at the bar. although her first attention is towards the bartender.

"Something synthetic please, or something not made out of plants. Surprise me."
Horatio Aubrey
player, 13 posts
Tue 9 Apr 2019
at 22:58
  • msg #186

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Horatio looks around in confusion then looks to Pablo.
StarMaster
GM, 921 posts
Tue 9 Apr 2019
at 23:20
  • msg #187

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"That'd be bloodwine, warnog, mead or tiger's milk, miss," the bartender replies to Khea. "Alcohol doesn't have to come from just plants, though that's the quickest and easiest way to get it. So, you got a preference?"
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 460 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Wed 10 Apr 2019
at 04:50
  • msg #188

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester Jinx:
"No, you can't exactly step outside, Sharik or Count Cromwell in?"


"You'll be wanting to give the bill to Sir Walter, in there," Vonon adds to Pablo's comments, "The Count is. . .not really available, anymore.  But I didn't know Sharik had helped Sir Walter arrange this dinner.  Huh.  Well, anyways, my compliments to the management, sir."
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 280 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Wed 10 Apr 2019
at 05:01
  • msg #189

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"The Count is off making a new holovid," Pablo explained to Sylvester. "Sharik is right behind you."

Something about Sylvester's question made him think that he wasn't with the hotel at all, though Vonon seemed to think the same thing.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 617 posts
Aslan outcast
Wed 10 Apr 2019
at 08:13
  • msg #190

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"That sound quite interesting. I wouldn't have expected that in a Humaniti station. Is there actual blood in the wine or is it just a name?"
This message was last edited by the player at 06:51, Thu 11 Apr 2019.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 461 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Wed 10 Apr 2019
at 08:30
  • msg #191

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Horatio Aubrey (msg # 186):

Feeling he's done his due diligence by directing the TAS-guy towards Sir Walter, Vonon turns his attention back to Pablo and this Aubry fellow.

"Alright, I'll give this one more try tonight." Vonon says bringing his attention back to Horatio, "Citizen Aubry, tell me again--why is it you are looking for the starship Longshot?"
Inderpal Kumar
player, 48 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Wed 10 Apr 2019
at 11:38
  • msg #192

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Indy stood back and watched this rather elegant argument. Witty word jousts were so much more enjoyable than bar fights and didn't involve as much cleaning up.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 18 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Wed 10 Apr 2019
at 11:59
  • msg #193

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester turned to Sharik and his face lights up in recognition, it had been many years since he'd seen her. "Sharik! It has been a long time! I hope i'm not too late, I was told you needed another engine shiner!"
Horatio Aubrey
player, 15 posts
Wed 10 Apr 2019
at 12:18
  • msg #194

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Vonon Ronkunu (msg # 191):

"As I said, I have information that I was told would be of interest to the captain and crew of the Longshot. It involves Coventry and missing prisoners.  As I find myself in need of work, I would like to trade the info for a job on the ship."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 463 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Thu 11 Apr 2019
at 04:33
  • msg #195

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Horatio Aubrey (msg # 194):

Vonon gives Horatio a wide eyed look, then turns to Pablo,

"Here we go again, down the same path..." Vonon says to Pablo, then turns back to Horatio,

"And like I told you before--yes, I am the Captain of the Longshot--Captain Vonon Ronkunu.  We've also established that there are, in fact, two Prison Planets named Coventry--and I assure you that neither of them is currently detaining anyone I know or care about.  And, since I have absolutely no interest in the operations of either Prison Planet, why should I care if they've lost some prisoners."

"So, Citizen Aubry, if the real reason you've tracked me down is because you want to join the crew, then give us a sob-story to try and get the Longshot to assist you in some plot to go rescue some friends--you can just forget that, right now.  I'm a Vargr, I ain't built to sob."

"Now, on the other hand, if you are a Mercenary who's taken a job to go recover these 'missing' prisoners, and you're looking for some back-up, the crew of the Longshot just might be interested.  It all depends on what kind of money you are offering us."

"But if you well and truly are just another roustabout spacer like the rest of us, I suggest you drop whoever told you they had an in with me--because this story you're telling doesn't do anything to gain my interest.  Now, I'll always listen to a fellow roustabout, and consider giving him a job--but I don't want to hear anymore of this fantasy crap about Prison Planets and Daring Rescues, got it?"

Vonon pauses to comp down on another cookie--apparently unfazed by all the chocolate he's already eaten.

"To start over--the Longshot is not and was not openly advertising to fill any open crew positions aboard.  That doesn't mean that we don't have any positions that, maybe, need to be filled.  We've already established you don't do work in Engineering.  I've got Pilot's up to my hairy armpits.  I've got a completely crazy Trader-slash-Cargomaster who suddenly thinks he's Chief Financial Officer of a Mega-Corp, and wants to bring in Mega-Corp scale accounting procedures to a one-ship tramp freighter operation.  I've got decent Comms and Sensors operators, and a good Computer Op, too."

"We just lost our Doctor, so if you can pull off being a Ship's Medic, I'll consider you for that.  Otherwise, there really is only just one thing we don't have, that I'd hire you in an instant for, and that's Ship's Steward--we really need someone to take charge of Housekeeping."
Sharik Kaagira
player, 354 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Thu 11 Apr 2019
at 07:57
  • msg #196

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik raised her left eyebrow slightly when the newcomer to the conversation and the bar had started name dropping.  It had been a long time since she’d seen Sylvester.  A very long time.  “It is good to see you, Jinxy.” her dulcet contralto noted with more than a touch of playful bemusement, “But you are a very long way from home. What the hell are you doing here in Reaver’s Deep, the butt end of frontier space?”. His slightly elfin features bespoke of his Darrian heritage; so, there could be little questions about his Confederation ties even if Darrian itself was many full sectors away.  It took well over eighty xBoat hops to get there (and Sharik knew that from personal experience - going to the Spinward Marches during her rounds on the racing circuit had required a years of her time).

And while it was true that the Longshot always needed more engineers (a 600-ton ship had many tonnes of drives to maintain), the diminutive astrogator was more interested in who knew that - though she suspected that she might already know.  “And who told you that the Longshot was looking for engineers, my friend?” Shar prompted Sylvester a slightly skeptical tone creeping into her voice.  It wasn’t that she wasn’t glad to see him, far from it, familiar faces were always welcome with Sharik - and Shar knew a lot of people - but, more than one previous acquaintance asking around specifically for her and her ship at any port of call was ... Ifni working overtime, to say the least.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 19 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Thu 11 Apr 2019
at 11:31
  • msg #197

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"I believe Ifni mentioned it, and I corresponded with the Count as well, though he never mentioned it." he said to her. "It was a long way over here, I have been traveling about a year, I saw Ifni two months ago, that's when she mentioned it. You are looking quite well I see."
This message was last edited by the player at 11:32, Thu 11 Apr 2019.
Valeska Brandenberg
player, 78 posts
Thu 11 Apr 2019
at 19:38
  • msg #198

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Well, Walter, it must have been something you said," Valeska said somewhat humorously as the others, one by one, got up and left.

"I wonder if they were upset with the talk of business over the meal. Maybe they were expecting the men to retire to the drawing room and smoke smelly cigars and drink Dom Perignon while they discussed business."

"I wasn't even aware anyone still knew about that antique custom."

"I don't mind sitting here with you, picking at the leftovers and discussing politics, the secrets of the Ancients, or the Count's newest holovid. Just not business."

"On the other hand, maybe we should join the others out at the bar. Vonon's beginning to sound a bit belligerent. Not sure he's going to be a good captain... unless we're looking for a Captain Bligh. He doesn't seem to be much of a people person. Perhaps the authority has gone to his head."

With that, Valeska gets up and also heads out to the bar.

After picking up the gist of the conversation, she realizes that Horatio was bringing them information that would have been important to the Count but completely pointless to the rest of the crew... except maybe Sharik.

"Oh, Vonon! Stop being such a stick!" she chides the Vargr.

"Horatio here is talking about the disappearance of those 100 prisoners from Coventry over in Duncinae. It was a major news item... what? A year ago, two years? They just vanished!"

"Oh, I know what all the news reports said... some stealth ship landed and took them way. Theories are easy to come up with. It's the facts that are scarce. There was no warning on the planet. None of the remaining prisoners had any idea the others were leaving. And we're not talking about some tight little group. These were unrelated, unconnected people from all across the planet. Just... gone!"

"I think it was something the Count had been asked to look into. Well, not this incident specifically, but all the odd things that have been going on in the subsector. One of those was the destruction of all the underwater domes. We got Evelyn out of that... and the alien ship."

"There's probably a connection."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 464 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Fri 12 Apr 2019
at 04:20
  • msg #199

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Valeska Brandenberg (msg # 198):

When Valeska starts speaking, Vonon picks up another--in fact, the last--cookie.  As Valeska gets into her story, the cookie stops about halfway to Vonon's mouth--he stares at her raptly, unmoving, as she speaks.  When she's done, Vonon puts the cookie back down on the plate.

"Ooooh!  Well, that makes a difference, then, doesn't it?" Vonon asks both Valeska and Horatio,

"I apologize, Citizen Aubrey!  I misunderstood that you were trying to tell me that you had information about the disappearance of a hundred prisoners from the Duncinae Prison Planet of Coventry, about a year-or-so ago.  I truly am sorry if I appeared to brush you off.  After all..." Vonon suddenly glares straight at Valeska, "I'm not just the Captain of a free trader, I am also apparently the Commandant of the local Space Patrol!"

Vonon finishes by throwing his arms into the air.

"What the frack, Valeska?  Like I said before, why should I care about prison breaks on Coventry?  Navy veterans joining our merry, insane group I can get behind, but I don't give a--wait..."

Vonon faces Horatio, "Navy.  You said Navy.  Imperial Navy, right?"
Samantha Kilgore
player, 477 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Fri 12 Apr 2019
at 07:14
  • msg #200

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam looked at Walter, shrugging "If you cant beat em, join em. Can I buy you a drink Walter?" she motions towards the bar, a quizzical expression on her face
Horatio Aubrey
player, 16 posts
Fri 12 Apr 2019
at 16:46
  • msg #201

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Vonon Ronkunu (msg # 199):

"Yes.  Imperial Navy." he says through clenched teeth.

Horatio gets to his feet.

"It seems my friend was wrong that your crew had any interest in Grigorio Zelany.  I will not trouble you anymore."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 466 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sat 13 Apr 2019
at 01:59
  • msg #202

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Horatio Aubrey (msg # 201):

"Well, you got that right!" Vonon says, looking around for a lager that isn't there, "I don't know who Grigorio Zelany is, I don't care who Grigorio Zelany is.  Sheesh!  Finally glad we're past that."

"Hey!  Where you going, Imperium?  That Coventry crap don't twitch my ears, but you being an Imperial Navy veteran does--what was your Technical Operations Specialty?"
Horatio Aubrey
player, 17 posts
Sat 13 Apr 2019
at 15:11
  • msg #203

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"I was a line officer or on staff my entire career.  My last command was the Aurelian.  Before that it was the Raven."

If Vonon does not know the names Horatio will fill him in.

"Aurelian is a Kinunir class Vanguard Cruiser and the Raven is Midu Agashaam class Destroyer.  Most of my time was in this sector."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 467 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sun 14 Apr 2019
at 00:03
  • msg #204

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Horatio Aubrey (msg # 203):

"Uh-oh--somebody with actual leadership ability." Vonon says with a Vargr grin, "I bring you aboard and I might be looking at getting myself voted out of the Captaincy."

"That's right, Imperium," Vonon continues, still grinning but now with a gleam in his eye, "Voted out.  You're not in the military, anymore--welcome to the wild and wacky world of Civilian Commercial Spacefaring!  And Tramp Spacing, to boot--vacc-suits are in the locker to the left of the airlock.  Hopefully they're charged..."

Vonon pauses a moment to think,

"Okay, so you've spent a lot of time on the bridge of military vessels.  Like I said earlier, we've pretty much got the bridge stations covered, but, once we get a look at your resume, we might find we need to review some of them--like Senior Computer Operator or Senior Sensor Operator.  Both those jobs are done by Sharik, over there..." Vonon points nearby to where Sharik is speaking with the TAS concierge, "She's damn good with computers, and she might even be better than me with sensors--I was a Sensor Officer in the Cassandra Space Patrol."

"If you're any better than her at either of those, then maybe we can put you there.  I'm still wearing the Tactical Officer's hat--we might be able to put you there.  We only just assigned Inderpal, here, to be the new Senior Comms Operator.  If you have any skill with Comms, you two could arm wrestle for the job *snicker*"

"So, you say you were also a Staff Officer, well then, what other Departments have you experience in, other than Bridge work?  Say!  Can you operate drones?  We really need a drone operator; we've got dozens of drones--mostly mining and a few heavy operations drones.  I've been trying to learn drone operation, but its been slow going."
Horatio Aubrey
player, 18 posts
Sun 14 Apr 2019
at 01:52
  • msg #205

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"On my various assignments, I was trained in Electronics, Gunner, Pilot, Administration and Astrogation.  I have also attended the War college for Navel Tactics and Leadership I have been trained as a diplomat at the Imperial Diplomatic school in Nightrim."

"I have also been further trained in VacSuit use.  Mostly due to my time growing up on Carrill.  I would say I am competent in Science, Mechanics, the Vilani language, and how to fight with a blade."

Horatio pauses to scratch his chin.

"I am not sure about the drones.  I would think they would be remotely piloted so a Pilot should be able to do it. "
Valeska Brandenberg
player, 79 posts
Sun 14 Apr 2019
at 04:49
  • msg #206

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"I suppose, Vonon, it depends on what you want to do," Valeska interjects.

"If you want adventure, if you want to make lots of money, then you should listen to Horatio here. After all, it's worked for us so far."

"But, if you just want to sit on the bridge and be bored all the time, well, you can do that, too."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 469 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sun 14 Apr 2019
at 08:37
  • msg #207

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Horatio Aubrey (msg # 205):

"Ah, frack, I'm doomed!" Vonon rolls his eyes and throws his arms up in the air, "With that resume, these guys'll probably make you Captain within the week--and I'll probably vote for you, myself."

Vonon then sighs and addresses Valeska, "Of course I want to make money, Valeska, but let me qualify your statement by saying that I believe the phrase 'lots of money' to be quite subjective.  Unlike our friend Sir Walter, I really have no interest in making enough credits to swim in--you know, I've said that all my life 'enough credits to swim in', I wonder where it actually started?"

"Anyway, I just want enough money to be able to keep a ship flying, and to be flush enough to only take the jobs that interest me.  That is what I consider 'lots of money'--I do not think that is what Walter considers as such.  And that's fine, he's a Noble.  He's used to thinking on higher levels than I am."

"And what would--you said you first name was Horatio, correct Citizen?--what does Horatio, here have to do with earning wads of credits?  Is this that prison thing, again?  How would that...oh.  Oh!"

Vonon turns quickly face to Horatio, again,

"Is that crap about Coventry and missing prisoners a Bounty thing?  That person you mentioned, Zaca-hooie Whatsizname?  Is there big money on his head?"
Horatio Aubrey
player, 20 posts
Sun 14 Apr 2019
at 11:58
  • msg #208

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Haratio looks back and forth between Vonon and Valeska.

"I do not follow the bounties posted on criminals but Coventry is where political dissidents of the Confederacy of Duncinae are sent into exile.  They would be the ones who would be most interested in getting them back."
Sylvester Jinx
player, 22 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Sun 14 Apr 2019
at 12:17
  • msg #209

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester politely listened to the conversation that interrupted his with its raised voices and physical maneuverings with hand and arm gestures. He interrupts momentarily. "I'm an engineer by the way, Ex-Darrian Confederation Navy."
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 281 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Sun 14 Apr 2019
at 15:55
  • msg #210

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Are you sure you aren't part ostrich, Vonon?" Pablo asked. "Unless you're the luckiest dog in the universe, you can't really expect these 'interesting jobs' to just jump up and kick you in the teeth. If you don't listen to people, then how do you expect to find these jobs?"

"Anyway, while it may seem as if we don't need another engineer," he adds, gesturing towards Sylvester, "one person can't maintain a watch 24/7. Even splitting the watch into two 12-hour watches is pushing it."

"Sure, we've been getting by so far, but we haven't really been doing much... just knocking around the subsector somewhat willy-nilly. Some of us want to get serious about it, though... take it up a notch or two."

"And that means more crew."

"We're not an Imperial dreadnought that needs a crew of 1,000 or more, but a few more not only won't hurt but it'll make things go smoother."

"Remember, whenever we wanted to have a meal that wasn't freeze-dried, we've all been taking turns in the galley... except you, Vonon--nobody trusts you in the galley."
Valeska Brandenberg
player, 80 posts
Mon 15 Apr 2019
at 01:23
  • msg #211

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"What makes you think it was a prison break, Vonon?" Valeska inquires. "Were you there? Did you help them escape?"

She doubted if Vonon would detect the humor in her voice.

"Anyway, the Count let it slip once that he was... 'keeping an eye out' I believe is how he put it... for mysterious circumstances that happened here in the subsector."

"I got the impression that someone had asked him to do that."

"The simultaneous failure of all the underwater domes on Sarrad was one of those 'mysterious circumstances'. Now, while we don't know for certain that the alien ship we found was responsible for that, we do know that the ship was there at the time. How else could Evelyn have wound up on that ship?"

"The mass disappearance from Coventry of 100 prisoners falls into that category... simply because there is no evidence to explain how it happened."

"Another incident was that squashed Rock Hopper."

"There is money to be made investigating these events... probably more if we find new ones and we solve them."

"I, personally, feel obligated to finish what the Count started."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 471 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Mon 15 Apr 2019
at 03:16
  • msg #212

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Valeska Brandenberg (msg # 211):

OOC: this is gonna be a big one--and it's all your fault!!  Hang on...


Horatio Aubrey:
Horatio looks back and forth between Vonon and Valeska.

"I do not follow the bounties posted on criminals but Coventry is where political dissidents of the Confederacy of Duncinae are sent into exile.  They would be the ones who would be most interested in getting them back."


"Damn.  Skip that then." Vonon growls, "I don't want to go zipping around the subsector chasing bounties if I don't know what the pay-off at the end will be.  Well, no matter, even without a tip on some bounty-heads, I've heard enough, Imperium.  Even though I think you'll probably end up replacing me as Captain sooner than later, I think it would be good to bring you aboard as our new Tactical Officer."

"Now, remember, despite the fact that the Longshot looks like an old System Defense Boat, it was decommissioned from military service a long time ago, and we've only got civilian computers on board, and just some pretty basic weapons control software.  As Tactical Officer for the Longshot you are going to have to take the place of an actual battlecomp, assess the data feed from the ships civilian-grade sensors--actually, the few time I had to interface with them as Tactical Officer, they seemed pretty damn sensitive for civvie-grade."

"You then designate target priorities and assign targets to the turrets.  The gunners take it from there with the minimal fire control each turret has.  Then you pray.  If we survive, we party.  Sound good to you, to get you in the airlock?"

Sylvester Jinx:
Sylvester politely listened to the conversation that interrupted his with its raised voices and physical maneuverings with hand and arm gestures. He interrupts momentarily. "I'm an engineer by the way, Ex-Darrian Confederation Navy."


Vonon turns to look at the speaker--his ears turn towards the speaker...he squints at the speaker...he points his nose at the speaker and sniffs the air...

"Ohhh, yeahhh...You are Darrian, aren't you!" Vonon says in a calm, pleasant voice, "I thought you were all well dressed and good-looking like that because you were the Concierge, here.  Well...good for you!"

Though he keeps his eyes on the Darrian, Vonon leans a little closer to Valeska and Pablo, and says in aside manner,

"Valeska...Pablo...Why is the Concierge of the Travellers Aid Society Hotel spontaneously telling me he's an Engineer?  Should we be worried, or just call the Manager?"

Pablo Esteban Ryzov:
"Are you sure you aren't part ostrich, Vonon?" Pablo asked. "Unless you're the luckiest dog in the universe, you can't really expect these 'interesting jobs' to just jump up and kick you in the teeth. If you don't listen to people, then how do you expect to find these jobs?"

"Anyway, while it may seem as if we don't need another engineer," he adds, gesturing towards Sylvester, "one person can't maintain a watch 24/7. Even splitting the watch into two 12-hour watches is pushing it."

"Sure, we've been getting by so far, but we haven't really been doing much... just knocking around the subsector somewhat willy-nilly. Some of us want to get serious about it, though... take it up a notch or two."

"And that means more crew."

"We're not an Imperial dreadnought that needs a crew of 1,000 or more, but a few more not only won't hurt but it'll make things go smoother."

"Remember, whenever we wanted to have a meal that wasn't freeze-dried, we've all been taking turns in the galley... except you, Vonon--nobody trusts you in the galley."


"What..." Vonon swings his head around to look at Pablo, but points at the Darrian, "...this guy a buddy of yours?  You promise him a bunk already, or something?  Yotz, Pablo, you didn't have to make such a secret production out of it--you just should have told me, buddy.  Have Khea vet the guy, and if she likes him, he's in."

Vonon turns his Vargr's grin on the Darrian, "Heck, Citizen, even if our Aslan Chief Engineer feels she doesn't want you in her engine room, after being the Concierge here at the TAS--then like Pablo said--we can always put you to work in the Galley.  Kaengarr Ruzokh--a fellow Vargr--was our last Steward and Cook..." Vonon casts a quick glare at Pablo, then back to Sylvester, "But he recently chose to pursue other interests."

"And what the frack is an Ostrich, anyways, Pablo?  And why would I be part of one?"

Valeska Brandenberg:
"What makes you think it was a prison break, Vonon?" Valeska inquires. "Were you there? Did you help them escape?"

She doubted if Vonon would detect the humor in her voice.


"Noooo.  I think it was a prison break because Planet Coventry is a prison!" Vonon growls.

Valeska Brandenberg:
"Anyway, the Count let it slip once that he was... 'keeping an eye out' I believe is how he put it... for mysterious circumstances that happened here in the subsector."

"I got the impression that someone had asked him to do that."


"He what, now?" Vonon asked, with some evident surprise.

Valeska Brandenberg:
"The simultaneous failure of all the underwater domes on Sarrad was one of those 'mysterious circumstances'. Now, while we don't know for certain that the alien ship we found was responsible for that, we do know that the ship was there at the time. How else could Evelyn have wound up on that ship?"

"The mass disappearance from Coventry of 100 prisoners falls into that category... simply because there is no evidence to explain how it happened."

"Another incident was that squashed Rock Hopper."

"There is money to be made investigating these events... probably more if we find new ones and we solve them."

"I, personally, feel obligated to finish what the Count started."


"Money to be made?" Vonon asks, incredulous, "Yeah?  How much?  And from who?  The Dincinae...ers?  The Duncinae-ish?  Duncinese?  Whatever.  We'll still have to spend our own money doing the job with no idea of the pay-off at the end.  We could spend ten million only to make one million.  I'd want to know how much we could potentially earn, so I can know when to cut our losses."

"And what's this yotz about somebody asking Count Darryl to be on the lookout for strange happenings?  That sounds like the plot to one of his old spy vids.  I suppose next you'll be telling me that the reason we got our hands on the Longshot so easy was because some super-silly-secret organization made it happen, yeah?"
Walter Zeller
player, 517 posts
Merchant/Noble
Mon 15 Apr 2019
at 09:43
  • msg #213

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Samantha Kilgore:
Sam looked at Walter, shrugging "If you cant beat em, join em. Can I buy you a drink Walter?" she motions towards the bar, a quizzical expression on her face


"Sounds fine Ms. Kilgore. Looks like things are breaking up and I am back to where I had started. I guess I will have to figure something out about creating Longshot Enterprises. It kind of reminds me of herding cats and I am not talking about Aslans. Looks like Vonon is going to have his hands full." Sir Walter said as he escorted Samantha out the door.
Samantha Kilgore
player, 478 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Mon 15 Apr 2019
at 10:45
  • msg #214

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam smiled at Walter and said "Indeed. And thankfully, V is so patient with cats..." before breaking into a loud laugh, before composing herself.

"Sorry. V will be a good captain, but he's going to struggle with being patient. I guess that will mean his XO will have to be a trained diplomat. Thankfully, that almost certainly rules me out." As they approach the bar she moves to within earshot of the others, but not joining them, and raises her hand to get the bar mans attention. "I think it will also mean that he won't be scouring the books in detail. But as you seem more than able, and quite willing, to run that side, that shouldn't be a problem."
Sylvester Jinx
player, 23 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Mon 15 Apr 2019
at 10:56
  • msg #215

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester smiles concierge indeed! "I was Chief Engineer on the Destroyer, 'Onslaught' in Anglic, for 4 years. I spent twenty years as an engineer." he replied, but then realized he was hired. He went to the bar for a drink with the others when the 'meeting' broke up.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:58, Mon 15 Apr 2019.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 472 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Mon 15 Apr 2019
at 14:20
  • msg #216

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester Jinx:
"I was Chief Engineer on the Destroyer, 'Onslaught' in Anglic, for 4 years. I spent twenty years as an engineer."

The Darrian says, before heading to a different part of the bar.

"Uh, okay.  Sure.  Sounds...qualified.  I Guess.  Khea will decide."

Vonon watches the Darrian walk away to another part of the bar--then spins back to confront Pablo,

"Okay, so who the frell is that guy, and why does he keep...telling...me his war stories about being a starship engineer in the Darrian Navy--Pablo?" Vonon demands quietly, "You seem to know him--I got that impression, at least.  So?  Who is he?  Or is all this because I accidentally put on weirdo-attracting cologne this morning?"

"No offense meant, Horatio."
Inderpal Kumar
player, 52 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Mon 15 Apr 2019
at 14:35
  • msg #217

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester Jinx:
Sylvester smiles concierge indeed! "I was Chief Engineer on the Destroyer, 'Onslaught' in Anglic, for 4 years. I spent twenty years as an engineer." he replied, but then realized he was hired. He went to the bar for a drink with the others when the 'meeting' broke up.


Inderpal say the bearded old man arrive in the bar and moved over towards him.

"I guess you're one of the new hires," she said, offering her hand. She was going to need to know everyone's name's as communications officer and now seemed as a good a time as any to do.

"Inderpal Kumar."
Sylvester Jinx
player, 25 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Mon 15 Apr 2019
at 14:37
  • msg #218

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Sylvester Jinx, late of the Darrian Navy, now looking to have fun and get rich in my old age. Pleased to meet you, I'm sorry I'm not a conversationalist, I'm pretty short in my speech. Vonon is a little long winded I see."
This message was last edited by the player at 14:40, Mon 15 Apr 2019.
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 282 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Mon 15 Apr 2019
at 20:37
  • msg #219

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Yeah, Coventry is used for Duncinae's political dissidents," Pablo explains to Inderpal. "As far as it goes, it's reasonably humane. Coventry is mostly a garden planet. The prisoners get dumped there with the clothes on their backs. No tools, no weapons, no technology. No communication off-world."

"So, if one of those 100 missing prisoners was spotted off-world, that's a big deal. I doubt if Duncinae will offer any reward for his return, but if we could find out how he and the others got off the world... now, THAT is something Duncinae would pay a lot for."

"For that matter, so might the Imperium. Or any corporation."

"It'd be totally speculative... mostly based on what we find, but also how well we can bargain."

"So, as Captain, Vonon, the call is yours whether we pursue this lead."
Kheaiftouaw
player, 618 posts
Aslan outcast
Mon 15 Apr 2019
at 22:10
  • msg #220

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

With the bartender taking his time with the drink Khea notices the gathering with Vonon at the centre, as far as she can see the small Vargr between all the Humaniti and decides to also join the merry group.

"You were made captain eight minutes ago and you are already bragging to everyone you can find, are you?"
Walter Zeller
player, 518 posts
Merchant/Noble
Tue 16 Apr 2019
at 00:01
  • msg #221

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Samantha Kilgore:
"Sorry. V will be a good captain, but he's going to struggle with being patient. I guess that will mean his XO will have to be a trained diplomat. Thankfully, that almost certainly rules me out." As they approach the bar she moves to within earshot of the others, but not joining them, and raises her hand to get the bar mans attention. "I think it will also mean that he won't be scouring the books in detail. But as you seem more than able, and quite willing, to run that side, that shouldn't be a problem."


"Quite right but it is a bit of a jump between commanding people that are use to taking orders while most of this crew has experience in giving them." he said. "At least I got the paper pushing area is covered. Now that he is captain, I can focus more of my energy in other pursuits. It might be a bit challenging in getting the corporation up and running while I am flying all over this subsector but it will be done. Would you like to get in on the ground floor and become a partner?" he asked, direct and to the point.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 474 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Tue 16 Apr 2019
at 05:38
  • msg #222

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Walter Zeller (msg # 221):

Pablo Esteban Ryzov:
"It'd be totally speculative... mostly based on what we find, but also how well we can bargain."

"So, as Captain, Vonon, the call is yours whether we pursue this lead."


Vonon, as he has done a couple times during these conversations, nervously looks around at the patrons scattered around the main restaurant--mostly Humans, with a large number of Vargr, and a scattering of others--then makes shushing gestures at Pablo.

"Will you keep it down with tossing my name around, buddy." Vonon says nervously, "I have enemies around Rockport--the kind of enemies that I can't really count on the Patrol to protect me from, anymore."

Vonon's left eyelid twitches for a moment, "Mostly because some of those guys count themselves amoung my enemies.  But no, Pablo, I'm just not convinced we can collect a sufficient pay-off--if any--chasing after Coventry escapees."  Vonon's eye twitches again, almost looking like a wink.

"Besides, Sir Walter has a big, expensive, speculative cargo for us *wink-wink* and part of it is pharmaceuticals, so we're already on a clock *wink-wink* we have to get it all to a nice Rich World before too much more time passes *wink-wink*"

"As soon as I leave here, I'm going to contact Port Flight Control and reserve a launch window for three days from now *wink*  That's the longest I think we can wait to see if any other business seeks us out, before we have to leave *wink-wink*"

Kheaiftouaw:
"You were made captain eight minutes ago and you are already bragging to everyone you can find, are you?"


"More like chasing off unwanted recruits I didn't even know I was recruiting!" Vonon growled at the female Aslan that had just joined the discussion, "In fact, the Concierge from here at the TAS Hotel appears to want to give up his cushy job here and work in our engine room.  Oh!  That's him there, Khea--the odd looking man at the end of the bar, there."

Vonon points at Sylvester, and leans closer to the taller Aslan, "He's not actually Human, Khea." Vonon says in a lowered voice, "He's a Darrian--they just look like really exotic Humans.  Or so I've been told over the years."

Vonon gives a shrug, but continues speaking in a low voice, "Personally, I can't tell the difference by sight--he looks just like the rest of these hairless monkeys, to me..."

Vonon turned a grinning gaze at Pablo and Valeska, then slowly and silently mouthed the words 'Talkin...About...Your...Kind".

"He does smell different, though." Vonon continues to Khea, "Nice.  His pheromones kinda smell like citrus and vanilla--and no meat-eater smell.  None.  I never heard anything about Darrians being herbivores, so maybe it's just some not-a-Human thing."

"Anyway," Vonon brings his voice back up to normal conversation level, "I told him he had to speak to you if he wanted to work in engineering.  I don't know, though.  I've heard that Darrians are really smart, and everything, and their educational standards are really high, but--but c'mon!  He a Concierge!  He's a puffed up waiter!  His experience is in Hotel and Restaurant Management, what could he know about starship engines, even with a high-tech Darrian education?"
Samantha Kilgore
player, 479 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Tue 16 Apr 2019
at 07:41
  • msg #223

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Walter Zeller (msg # 221):

"oh Im in Walter. Pretty much to the hilt. Ive never had as much as the dividend from our last company winding up, so I am not sure what I would do with it. I'm too young to retire, and beside, I don't want to yet. So its back into the business. Maybe a nest egg for the future will come out of it. But what I really want it to do is keep the Longshot flying so I can have some fun, see the universe, that sort of stuff. Bear that in mind, please. Plus a little skim off the top now and then to buy things I might find useful."

When the barman came over Sam smiled at Walter "So what will it be."
Walter Zeller
player, 519 posts
Merchant/Noble
Tue 16 Apr 2019
at 09:44
  • msg #224

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"My usual Greg."  Walter told the bartender. "Long term planing for retirement. Hum, that would be an area that we can explore. I was thinking service industries like Banking and Investments at start as the focus for the company.  Help merchants acquire cargo and funding. Retirements plans could also be added into the equation. Concerning the Longshot, will keep flying as long as we do not get it too damaged. Investing in additional weapons would not be a bad idea." he said.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 619 posts
Aslan outcast
Tue 16 Apr 2019
at 22:01
  • msg #225

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Vonon Ronkunu (msg # 222):

"A Darrian? Then I should better talk to him. If it wouldn't be so far away that where I would have been heading. Even if he turns out to be useless it will be nice hearing about that place"

Not waiting for a response Khea weaves through the gathering crowd of crewmembers and hopeful prospects and heads to the "Concierge" Vonon pointed out to her.

"So I heard you want a place in my engine room?"
Sylvester Jinx
player, 27 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Wed 17 Apr 2019
at 11:03
  • msg #226

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Ahhh, you must be the Kheai that Vonon mentioned. I have extensive Engineering experience. I was Chief for many year on the destroyer, 'Onslaught' was it's name in Anglic. I spent 24 years in the Darrian Confederation Navy. I was Engineer 3 in our terms."
Kheaiftouaw
player, 620 posts
Aslan outcast
Wed 17 Apr 2019
at 22:17
  • msg #227

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Kheaiftouaw


And we will talk about your qualifications later. First though, tell me how much experience do you have with working with Aslan?"
Inderpal Kumar
player, 53 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Thu 18 Apr 2019
at 10:24
  • msg #228

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Indy stayed with Sylvester as he moved over to talk with the Kheai. She liked Aslan; there was a certain majesty about them. Then again, maybe it was because she was a cat person instead of a dog person.

She mentally chided herself for the mental racism and decided to listen to the conversation instead, looking for a good moment to join in.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 476 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Thu 18 Apr 2019
at 10:49
  • msg #229

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Inderpal Kumar (msg # 228):

Vonon wipes what little is left of the cookie crumbs from his hands,

"Okay, I think I've sown as much confusion here as I possibly can.  Time for me to get back to the ship and see about getting us a launch date." Vonon says.

"And Pablo, if you are actually waiting foe me to double over and get sick or die from those cookies--forget it.  Do you really think that in a place with such a high local population of Vargr, any restauranteur would offer food with chocolate that chemically resembled, in any way, Terran Chocolate?  Which will sicken and kill Vargrs, by the way."

"They use Vilani Process chocolate around here--completely hypo-allergenic and contains no theobromine.  Just like the Kaff I drink."

"Horatio, I won't expect you aboard until tomorrow at ten-hundred, when we'll sign all the papers and assign you a bunk.  Welcome to the Crew."

Vonon casts one final, wary look around the restaurant, grabs his cap and pulls it down low on his head, then makes his way to the door, and slips out to the thoroughfare-companionway, outside.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 28 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Thu 18 Apr 2019
at 11:55
  • msg #230

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"I had an Aslan number two on the Onslaught, none other than that. The Confederation Navy is not very big despite being slightly more advanced. I can take orders though, I had many years of it."
Walter Zeller
player, 522 posts
Merchant/Noble
Thu 18 Apr 2019
at 13:35
  • msg #231

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Scanning the room for Kheaiftouaw and Sharik, he asked them to come over and sit down with Samantha and him. "If you will give me a few moments of your time, I would like to see if you would join Samantha and I on the ground floor of Longshot Enterprises." he said. "Your connections in the Navy, Merchants and Nobles would provide the company strong influence in shipping, investments, and banking. In the early stages, it would be to build the infrastructure to assist merchants in filling their holds. Later on, expanding into the manufacturing process itself so that we make and ship our own products." he said.

"I was hoping that Vonon would have joined us as I have worked with you all since we started our misadventures back on Grendal.  As he is not willing, I was wondering if there should be one other person on the board. While I would like to have any one that wishes join us, too many bosses ruin a starting business. If they wish, we can have them as investors for a minimum million credit investment.  Are you in and  do you have any nominations?" he asked the assembled.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 622 posts
Aslan outcast
Thu 18 Apr 2019
at 22:33
  • msg #232

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Sylvester Jinx (msg # 230):

Tell me about her. Or him.
In the Hirate the Aslans in your territory are considered to be rather strange.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:50, Thu 18 Apr 2019.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 30 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Fri 19 Apr 2019
at 11:18
  • msg #233

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"He was an excellent engineer that always did his job. He was one of the few I didn't have to keep an eye on. What do you want?" he asked. "He had a sense of humor and liked to play jokes too, nothing mean though."
Samantha Kilgore
player, 480 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Fri 19 Apr 2019
at 16:17
  • msg #234

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam added a Martini to Walters order, and then sat and waited to hear what Sharik and Khea might say.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 623 posts
Aslan outcast
Fri 19 Apr 2019
at 19:07
  • msg #235

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Sylvester Jinx (msg # 233):

"He?

See, this is unusual. Engineering is a dishonorable profession for a male. And word within the Hierate is that the Aslan in your confederacy have abandoned the honorable ways.
So tell me about it. You have experienced it firsthand. How do the Aslan live over there?"
Sylvester Jinx
player, 31 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Fri 19 Apr 2019
at 19:18
  • msg #236

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"They live as the Darrian as far as I know. Only females can be engineers? I guess they have abandoned the ways."
Inderpal Kumar
player, 54 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sat 20 Apr 2019
at 12:10
  • msg #237

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Inderpal decided to ask a question at this point.

"Why is it dishonourable to be an engineer if you're a male? Surely the shaft of a spear is just as vital as the tip."

A good natured debate livened up any party.
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 283 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Sat 20 Apr 2019
at 22:23
  • msg #238

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Pablo had to laugh at Inderpal's comment because it reminded him of an old joke.

"That's like saying the anus is just as important as the brain, which most people wouldn't agree with. But, try not going to the bathroom for two weeks and see what the brain has to say then!"

"Anyway, there's an Old Earth expression: when in Rome, do as the Romans do. The gist of it is saying that if you enter someone else's culture, you are essentially insulting them if don't follow their customs. In other words, I'm not going to go to your house and start telling you how eat, drink and be merry! You'd throw me out!"

"The Aslan in the Imperium and Confederacy are in the same boat. If they choose not to follow local custom... such as males performing engineering tasks... then they are insulting their hosts and could and should be booted out. That is certainly an option, of course, but there might be other more pressing needs for why they remain."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:45, Sun 21 Apr 2019.
Walter Zeller
player, 523 posts
Merchant/Noble
Sat 20 Apr 2019
at 22:59
  • msg #239

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Bing!" Sir Walter's computer chimed as a message was received. "Vonon feels that he would be too busy as Captain to sit on the board but is willing to invest 3.2 mcr in the corporation." he said.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 32 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Sun 21 Apr 2019
at 11:52
  • msg #240

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"I keep hearing 'investment' in the conversation over there, is there a need for investment in the ship? I have money to invest if necessary."
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 284 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Sun 21 Apr 2019
at 15:52
  • msg #241

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"The ship operates as a partnership, and we're all equal partners in it," Pablo explains to Sylvester. "If you want to join that partnership--and that's assuming we vote you in, it requires one ship share or equivalent to join."

"As for investments, well, that's Walter's there province. He's using whatever money we give him to invest to buy and sell cargoes. He's also got it into his noggin that he's going to build himself a megacorporation. Knowing him, that's probably going to happen."

"What you do with it once you've got it is a debate for another day. Today, we're just celebrating the success of our latest adventure. Skoal!" he toasts as he raises his glass.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 33 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Sun 21 Apr 2019
at 17:07
  • msg #242

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester drinks the toast, "the way it looks, I'd be interested in partnering up with you if you choose to have me." He replies. "Everything looks phenomenal to me up to this point."
Samantha Kilgore
player, 481 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Sun 21 Apr 2019
at 18:17
  • msg #243

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam said "I've never been a board member, but happy to give it a go. And you can have the cash I have spare. I'll keep a slush fund for any goodies I fancy. ANd the odd drink" she raises her glass before taking a sip
Inderpal Kumar
player, 55 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sun 21 Apr 2019
at 21:42
  • msg #244

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Inderpal took a sip of her own drink, listening to Sylvester discussing the partnership.

"I'm also very keen on joining as a partner", she said, revealing her hand at this point, "I'll need to see the full finances for due diligence of course, but I've got a couple of ship shares for just this sort of thing."

She liked the idea of being on in a company, but hopefully the meetings wouldn't be boring.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:53, Mon 22 Apr 2019.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 624 posts
Aslan outcast
Mon 22 Apr 2019
at 01:01
  • msg #245

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Inderpal Kumar (msg # 237):

"Because, if you ask the men, their ownly duty is to conquer and rule territory and thus they leave all the actual thinking to us females.

While you can still talk normally with a poor worker, the leaders are absolutely clueless, more fit for living in the wild on an untamed planet than in a city.
Walter Zeller
player, 524 posts
Merchant/Noble
Mon 22 Apr 2019
at 02:34
  • msg #246

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Samantha Kilgore:
Sam said "I've never been a board member, but happy to give it a go. And you can have the cash I have spare. I'll keep a slush fund for any goodies I fancy. ANd the odd drink" she raises her glass before taking a sip


"You should be close to what Vonon has invested." Walter said as he did some calculations. "Here you go." Sir Walter said as he slid over his computer to display he rough estimate of Samantha's assets.
Samantha Kilgore
player, 482 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Mon 22 Apr 2019
at 10:17
  • msg #247

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam looked at the totals Walter suggested, briefly did a mnetal check and then nodded her agreement. "Do we shake on the deal? Or is there going to be some sort of contract?" she asked
Sylvester Jinx
player, 34 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Tue 23 Apr 2019
at 15:04
  • msg #248

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Walter Zeller (msg # 246):

"So Kheaiftouaw, I'm a 3rd degree Engineer and can hold my own and give you a break now and then, I also have 5 shares and can afford to join the corporation if necessary, including a bigger investment than one share being possible as well." he says to Kheaiftouaw and Walter. "Do I get a chance to prove my mettle?"
Kheaiftouaw
player, 625 posts
Aslan outcast
Tue 23 Apr 2019
at 23:05
  • msg #249

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Disappointed that he doesn't want to talk more about the Confederation Khea stares at Sylvester and demonstratively sniffs the air.
"If the captain agrees you have your chance. Tell him you have my support. I could use someone who takes over the night shift.

With that Khea turns around and joins the others after picking up her drink.
"By the way, the night shift is 12 of your hours"
Walter Zeller
player, 525 posts
Merchant/Noble
Wed 24 Apr 2019
at 01:03
  • msg #250

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"We can shake if you wish but it will be drawn up as part of our incorporation process." Sir Walter replied to Samantha.
Samantha Kilgore
player, 483 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Wed 24 Apr 2019
at 07:25
  • msg #251

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam nodded and added "Thats ok, we can leave the paperwork for later. For now lets celebrate our new venturer" She aises her glass and proposes a toast "To Longshot Enterprises"
Sylvester Jinx
player, 35 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Wed 24 Apr 2019
at 10:52
  • msg #252

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"I'm sorry, was there something else you wanted to know about our Aslan?"
Sharik Kaagira
player, 355 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Wed 24 Apr 2019
at 17:12
  • msg #253

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik could only chuckle as the party moved outside.  And then grew.  With people that she knew from previous lives.  But never let it be said that she wasn't up to the recreational task of entertaining.  So, another round of drinks made it to the gaggle of rag-tag Longshoters (and potential Longshoters).

She seemed more than willing to vouch for Sylvester's professional qualifications, putting a good word with him to Khea.  "He's okay once you get to know him, Khea." she confided quasi-conspiratorially to the Aslan engineer, "Just have to get used to the ears.  He knows his way around the engine room; he's especially good with ..." and his engineering specialty escaped her, but a glance from the aubrun-haired socialite gave her Darrian friend the chance to fill in that gap.  In any case, in Shar's personal experience, the man was at least as good with drives as she was with bridge and astrogation - possibly better.  Even she'd seen him in action (or at least caught up with him) not so long ago when she'd taken the time to head (way) Spinward (to Marches via the Coreward route through the old First Imperium capital of Vland and through the current Imperial heart), the diminutive astrogator prompted Jinx (with her HR personnel hat on), "You probably should forward me your resume, Syl.  I'll disseminate it to the others."

Seeing Sylvester again, brought back the whole trip towards through the Archduke of Deneb's demesne back with vivid recall; it had taken almost half a decade - but it is amazing where you can go with IISS credentials on the express xBoat routes.  Sharik had done it on a lark - and ostensibly, as part of the grav cycle racing circuit, but it had proven to be extremely interesting.  Nothing like making a Grand Tour truly grand; few citizen could say that they had traversed their own subsector (let alone their own sector).  But Shar had touched over a dozen sectors - and touched the soil on the star systems in over forty subsectors.  The diminutive ex-operative was quite proud that her list of systems numbered in the hundreds (almost four hundred actually and still counting).

She leaned over and kibitz'd to Walter and Sam, "We probably should have come out here sooner ..."  A warm smile still playing on her face.  Still, the spread in the banquet room would have gone to waste.  It was either that or the entire lot should be dragged back into the much quieter dining space.  They could probably still do that - as long as the long-term corporation shop talk was shelved for a bit.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 36 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Wed 24 Apr 2019
at 17:20
  • msg #254

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Jump Drive 2nd, Maneuver 1st."
Kheaiftouaw
player, 626 posts
Aslan outcast
Wed 24 Apr 2019
at 22:17
  • msg #255

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Stopping in her tracks Khea turns around to resume questioning Sylvester but when she is interrupted by Sharik she just says "That can wait till later. You need some stories to tell during a jump." Speaking then to Sharik "You don't have to vouch for him to me, I already agreed to take him on, at least on a probationary basis. Better try to talk our captain into it".
Sylvester Jinx
player, 37 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Fri 26 Apr 2019
at 10:24
  • msg #256

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Thank you Kheaiftouaw, I appreciate the chance to prove myself." Syl moves off for food and drink then waiting to go to the ship.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:43, Sun 28 Apr 2019.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 57 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sun 28 Apr 2019
at 17:16
  • msg #257

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Kheaiftouaw (msg # 255):

Inderpal remained with the Aslan as Sylvester moved off; she'd been hovering around during the conversation.

"Of course, during a jump you have plenty of time to make your own stories."

She raised her glass.

"To making many stories... and a lot of money as well."
Kheaiftouaw
player, 627 posts
Aslan outcast
Mon 29 Apr 2019
at 22:33
  • msg #258

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"The stories one can make during a jump would be very boring." 

Khea reaches behind the bar to finally get her drink.

"Jump travel is a time to tell of your exploits and not to do thing worth telling. Unless you have a very boring life or a very unusual jump."
Walter Zeller
player, 526 posts
Merchant/Noble
Tue 30 Apr 2019
at 01:00
  • msg #259

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Samantha Kilgore:
Sam nodded and added "Thats ok, we can leave the paperwork for later. For now lets celebrate our new venturer" She aises her glass and proposes a toast "To Longshot Enterprises"

Sir Walter raised his glass. "To Longshot Enterprises" he said toasting to their success.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 58 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Wed 1 May 2019
at 12:06
  • msg #260

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Kheaiftouaw:
"The stories one can make during a jump would be very boring." 

Khea reaches behind the bar to finally get her drink.

"Jump travel is a time to tell of your exploits and not to do thing worth telling. Unless you have a very boring life or a very unusual jump."


"Or a lack of imagination. There are plenty of fun activities that you can do during a jump. Like writing a novel... or organising a chess tournament. Plenty of more disreputable things you can do as well with sufficient intoxicating liquour."

Indy slightly masked her smile here. She had a wild side, but it was usually kept very well hidden. It wasn't yet time to bring it out with these people.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 39 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Wed 1 May 2019
at 13:14
  • msg #261

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester gets a few pieces of cheese and a glass of wine and starts to mingle in the crowd, staying close to the Aslan and Indy and Walter if they had more questions, waiting for the party to go back to the ship.
Walter Zeller
player, 527 posts
Merchant/Noble
Wed 1 May 2019
at 23:44
  • msg #262

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Thinking a bit, Sir Walter typed in a message that was quickly transmitted.
Samantha Kilgore
player, 484 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Thu 2 May 2019
at 07:21
  • msg #263

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Looking around, Sam said to Walter "We seem to have accumulated some new ship mates, possibly. Anyyone you recognise?"
Sylvester Jinx
player, 40 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Thu 2 May 2019
at 16:00
  • msg #264

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester eats cheese and drinks wine and nods greetings to all who look his way, not knowing who is crew and who is not, and who is in the 'corporation'. He needed to find out more about the investment opportunities in the ship and in the corporation.
Valeska Brandenberg
player, 81 posts
Fri 3 May 2019
at 02:11
  • msg #265

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

For a moment, she was sorry she'd stirred up so much trouble. But then it started to settle down and work itself out.

In the midst of the post-celebration celebration, she had no trouble slipping back into the dining room.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 478 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Fri 3 May 2019
at 07:24
  • msg #266

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Valeska Brandenberg (msg # 265):

[PUBLIC HALLWAYS OF ROCKPORT, NEAR THE DOCKS]

     Vonon heads through the light crowd towards the dock where Longshot is--his mind works on destinations for where the ship should go next.  As he walks and thinks, he makes an effort to try to be inconspicuous in his travel.

     The lighting in the public hallways of Rockport is normally set to comfortable levels for Humans--and that is usually adequate for Vargr, as well.  As long as the lighting elements are working properly.

     Down here, near the Dock Area, not all the general light emitters were working properly--or at all--add in the frequent bright and colorful holo-displays and occasional old-style neon signs, and the over-all light level pulsed between too bright and not-quite bright enough for Vargr eyes.

     All of which didn't matter one watt--Vonon smelled the approaching Vargr before he saw him.

~~Damn fool is still using that Caledonian Heather body wash.~~ Vonon remembers, as a well dressed Vargr--wearing white high-collared shirt with an orange sport jacket with fire-engine red narrow lapels, trousers of the same bright red as the jacket's lapels, and tan loafers on his paws...a slight but distinctive bulge under his left shoulder....and tasteful gold-plated, light-amplifying goggles over his eyes--steps in front of Vonon and stops.

"Vo-non ... " the other Vargr drawls, adopting an imposing stance in front of Vonon, with his hands clasped low, at his waist.

"Fool of the Cassandra Space Patrol, one-time member of Pack Ronkunu..." the Vargr continues,

"I left, Tuf'grr!  I was not Driven Out!  I am still Ronkunu." Vonon replies hotly, but in a low voice, so as not to draw attention.

"You fled, coward!  And it broke Her heart!" Tuf'grr growls back, "You were her pride and joy, Fool!  You were the one who followed in her footsteps, who joined Law Enforcement!  You were the Hero of Rogar's Rock!  She had plans for your future--and you threw them all away!"

"Plans I didn't ask for, or want..." Vonon interjects.

"And for what?" Tuf'grr continues, ignoring Vonon, "To expose some unimportant, minor corruption that was actually helping make things run smoother!  The Great, Idiotic Space Patrol Commander is Duty Bound to Expose Wrong-Doing--whether it Helps the Community or Not!"

Vonon just stands there, silently, glaring at Tuf'grr.

"You are not wanted here in Cassandra's Belt any longer, Vonon Unwanted of Pack Ronkunu.  What friends you thought you had here are mist out the airlock.  The Mother whose heart you broke will not let us Drive you Out, but She has forbidden anyone to speak your name--to hear it brings Her to tears."

"So go.  As you said, just leave, coward, and never come back."

"I am Captain of an independent freighter--you cannot hold my company, my friends, as part of this!" Vonon objects, "They are not Ronkunu, they are not part of the Pack!  They cannot be forbidden to come here, just because I'm aboard the same ship, Tuf'grr!"

Tuf'grr ponders this for a moment, then nods, "Very well.  This action is only against you, therefore I shall pass along that while any ship and it's crew that happens to have you aboard it may be welcome in Cassandra's Belt, it is you that is not!  You should stay aboard any ship that puts in here--for you to come ashore anywhere in The Belt will be very...unpleasant...for you, from now on."

A stray beam of brighter light passes over the two glaring Vargr, revealing that they are of a similar height and size--thought Vonon appears slightly more physically heavy--and share the same auburn-colored pelt color.

"Go now." Tuf'grr says, stepping out of Vonon's way, "And...please die soon, Brother."

Vonon, keeping his gaze straight forward, walks past Tuf'grr and heads towards the Longshot.  It isn't until he's at the boarding accessway that Vonon stops and looks back,

"Goodbye...Brother." Vonon quietly speaks, then turns and enters the ship.
Walter Zeller
player, 528 posts
Merchant/Noble
Fri 3 May 2019
at 10:41
  • msg #267

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Thank you, Ms. Brandenberg for joining us. I understand that you have some experience in research and security that would be of use to us in forming a corporation." Sir Walter said.  "We have a lot of areas covered in setting things up between our various connections and knowledge." he added, showing the various people at the table and their areas of expertise.

"At start we are looking at the areas of Shipping, Banking and Investments to focus our energy. Now, to let you know, we have each invested at least 3 million credits each in this venture. This is separate from the ship and its activities. Would you join us as a member of the board of Longshot Enterprises?" he asked.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 41 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Fri 3 May 2019
at 12:46
  • msg #268

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"How does your corporation work, . . .Walter is it? If I'm taken on, I'd be interested in investing too. I wouldn't mind being independently wealthy one day. I have 4 shares, equating to 4 million credits I can use to get in on the ground floor." Sylvester asks as he overhears the conversation and interjects his question.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:47, Fri 03 May 2019.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 628 posts
Aslan outcast
Fri 3 May 2019
at 22:09
  • msg #269

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Inderpal Kumar (msg # 260):

Not being impressed at all at what Kumar is suggesting she hisses to her.
You have strange ideas what is story worthy.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:26, Fri 03 May 2019.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 356 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Fri 3 May 2019
at 22:16
  • msg #270

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik seemed non-plussed with respect to Khea's remark about convincing Vonon, giving the Aslani female a simple, "No worries."; her slightly crooked smile seemed content enough and had a sort of 'leave that to me...' aspect to it as well as a touch of foregone conclusion.  Whether that confidence was due to her long-standing relationship with the captain (they'd been friends for over two decades), her role as corporate secretary and ad hoc paperwork/personnel manager, or her previous experience with clandestine operations (or a combination of all three) was probably up for debate.  Still, there was little doubt in the diminutive astrogator's mind that Jinx would be on Longshot for this next jump.

She winked at Sylvester when he stepped in an identified his engineering specialty for her.  Sharik knew that she could get his resume from him later, even as she set in motion the various hiring threads; in the past, Vonon (like Khea) had expressed some desire to have more engineering specialists on board, if possible.

At the same time, she acknowledged various messages from the crew concerning both current and near-future topics.  And though she had an inclination to follow Vonon as he hastily excused himself from the festivities, the cosmopolitan socialite suppressed the urge, figuring that she'd get the chance to speak with him at greater length soon enough.

Shar chuckled lightly, nodding in agreement with Indy's assertion about the j-Time mischief.  She wouldn't add much to the conversation on the topic at this point - offering a single "Amen, sister.", but her knowing smile bespoke a set of personal experiences that likely corroborated her fellow scout's statement.  Plenty of 'Trouble™' could be gotten into with a smidge of knowledge, a bit of luck, a dash of determination, and the proper positive attitude.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 480 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sat 4 May 2019
at 03:11
  • msg #271

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Sharik Kaagira (msg # 270):

[ABOARD THE LONGSHOT]

Vonon taps out his security code at the airlock control and enters the ship, making his way up to the Bridge--after swinging through the galley to grab a bottle of hardened fruit cider.

Once on the Bridge, Vonon flops into the Captain's Chair and calls up the forms for registering himself with the Spacer's Guild as the new Captain of the Longshot, as well as starting the paperwork for adding a new Drive Engineer and a Tactical Officer/Drone Operator--those could be completed tomorrow.

Paperwork done, Vonon settles back with his cider and starts reviewing Astrogation data, looking for a destination to take the ship and unload Sir Walter's cargo.  Already having a general direction in mind, Vonon looks for a world that matches the market data that his dabbling in Trading has taught him to look for--it doesn't take long to locate a world that fits his requirements exactly.

Vonon quickly writes up a launch request, has the computer double check his numbers, then sends the request to Rockport Flight Control.


When confirmation is received, Vonon then types up a change to the Ad-Board located outside the Rockport side of the dock...

Independent Armed Freighter Longshot
Departs for Planet Invermory, Confederation of Duncinae
Time: (counting down from 72 hours) Hours
Interested Shippers should contact Sir Walter Zeller, Ship's Trader

Valeska Brandenberg
player, 82 posts
Sat 4 May 2019
at 04:47
  • msg #272

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Valeska had no idea what Sir Walter might want from her, though she was half expecting to be criticized for speaking out... even if that didn't make much sense.

When Walter made his spiel, she was flabbergasted.

"I'm flattered," she replied, "but I don't have any business experience. If a bit of common sense and some investigative skill will suffice, then I accept."

"Does it require the 3 million buy-in, or is that above and beyond the board membership?"
Walter Zeller
player, 529 posts
Merchant/Noble
Sat 4 May 2019
at 15:55
  • msg #273

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Glad to have you aboard Ms. Brandenberg." Sir Walter said "The 3 million or more is what each member of the board has invested. While there are others that can invest at that level, if there are too many on the board, it becomes harder to effectively operate. There will be the opportunity to invest Mr. Jinx but we have not yet gotten to that point. Your shares will need to be converted into hard currency in order to invest." he added.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 43 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Sat 4 May 2019
at 16:16
  • msg #274

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Thank you, I'll do that and invest at the stated level, though I will NOT be on the board. If I lose money, you lose money so you'll look after my investment in a fine fiduciary way I'm sure." He smiles and acknowledges what Walter has said.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 59 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sun 5 May 2019
at 14:14
  • msg #275

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Kheaiftouaw:
In reply to Inderpal Kumar (msg # 260):

Not being impressed at all at what Kumar is suggesting she hisses to her.
You have strange ideas what is story worthy.


Inderpal smiled.

"I have always found that what people call strange is merely that with which they are not familiar."

This was her being very diplomatic. She could have said a lot worse, but she didn't want to start a fight with a being far stronger than her.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 629 posts
Aslan outcast
Sun 5 May 2019
at 23:30
  • msg #276

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"If you say so. It might be worth listening to over the next week."
Sylvester Jinx
player, 45 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Mon 6 May 2019
at 12:08
  • msg #277

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester goes to the hotel desk and asks that his luggage be sent to the Longshot and makes arrangements to see the bank later to cash in his shares for 5 million credits. Then he heads back to the party awaiting departure for the ship. Eating and drinking lightly and slowly as not to bloat or get drunk, it would not be seemly.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:00, Tue 07 May 2019.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 360 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Tue 7 May 2019
at 23:05
  • msg #278

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik seemed happy enough to float between the private and public spaces.  Walter appeared to be hot to trot on the business/corporate side (which she could completely understand) and she was more than willing to facilitate in whatever (limited) capacity she could offer.  She'd already thrown her lot in with him and his corporate aspirations; the diminutive socialite suspected that Walter would be doing a lot of the heavy lifting at least on the trading front.  So, now it was just a matter of making it fly as best they could.  Shar and paperwork weren't the best of friends, but that was what intellect and expert modules were there to help facilitate.  Thousands of years of Imperial Bureaucracy could generate a lot of specific verbiage - and that expertise was there to tap.  With the right search agent.

As she sent shards of her virtual assistant spiralling outwards, Sharik continued to kibitz with the others.  "Just remember, Khea." she noted playfully to the Aslan engineer, "One of Ms. Kumar's specialties is communications."  Then turning to their new comms officer herself, Shar noted, "You probably should learn some languages.  Khal or tradespeak at the very least, if you are serious about apprenticing with Sir Walter."  Her demeanor was matter-of-fact, a sort of 'just saying' expression.

Sitting down next to Sylvester - a tumbler of Sylean brandy in her hand, her eyes scanned the crowd at the bar while addressing him.  "So, Jinxy.  It's a motley crew." the diminutive scout mused, then turned to address him more directly with a slight twinkle in her eye, "You really sure you want to throw your lot in with this bunch?"
Sylvester Jinx
player, 48 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Wed 8 May 2019
at 10:59
  • msg #279

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Oh with you in the crew, most definitely! It will be entertaining if nothing else." he says with a smile, "I will be rather poor quite soon, with all of my credits going into the ship. Millions come, millions go, then, with the help of Sir Walter and the gods, the millions come back again ten fold!"
Horatio Aubrey
player, 23 posts
Thu 9 May 2019
at 00:26
  • msg #280

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Horatio finished off his ale and sat back and listened to the conversations happening around him.  He had seen someone familiar in the crew but she gave him a little head shake when she saw him looking.  He will have to learn her new name.

He headed back to his lodgings and arranged for his equipment to be transferred to the Longshot.  He went over himself to familiarize himself with the ship.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 49 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Thu 9 May 2019
at 14:34
  • msg #281

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester goes to the bank in the hotel lobby to sell his ship's shares for 'cash' at the appointed time set up by the hotel desk, setting them up on his mobile device. The lady at the bank was very charming, as it was a rather large sum that was not real normal, though not unheard of in a starport. After completion, he headed for the ship to settle in now that he had been informed he was on the crew as a senior engineer, not the senior engineer, which was fine with him, less stress and less paperwork required. Upon arriving, he saw Horatio boarding the ship and  he knew Vonon was already aboard. He could fill out paperwork for joining the crew whenever the captain was ready.
Walter Zeller
player, 534 posts
Merchant/Noble
Thu 9 May 2019
at 14:58
  • msg #282

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sir Walter sat at the table as the group formulated the creation of Longshot Enterprises now that he had the Board of Directors settled. "Since we are here on Cassandra, we will set this up as the headquarters. I will see about acquiring a few businesses here to get things rolling." he said.

"We can use more investors, so with the addition of the new crew, I will see if any wish to join in. Any questions?" he asked. Once they were answered, he stood up and toasted the group. "Here is to Longshot Engerprises! Do you really want empty space in your hold?"
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 485 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Fri 10 May 2019
at 04:45
  • msg #283

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Walter Zeller (msg # 282):

[ROCKPORT SPACE DOCKS, BERTH 270, IAF LONGSHOT]

Vonon is still researching worlds in the Confederacy of Duncinae when the buzzer announcing someone is outside the airlock.  Vonon touches a few buttons, and an image of Horatio standing at the main airlock hatch pops up on a screen.  Vonon presses another button,

COMMS>>>"Oh good, it's you.  I have more questions.  Hang on, I'll be right down"<<<END COMMS Vonon calls over the inter-comm.

Vonon leaves the bridge and heads down to Deck 2, Forward, where he opens the main airlock and lets Horatio aboard.

"Welcome aboard, Empire.  Once you're settled in, I want to go over that information you were giv…" Vonon stops speaking suddenly, as his nose gets a whiff of something familiar, something recent--a kind of citrusy vanilla.

Looking over Horatio's shoulder and back out the airlock, Vonon spots the blonde concierge from the TAS Hostel...

~~No, that's not right...he's some non-Human, humanoid...Daryen!  Right...wants to be...~~

"Your pardon, Citizen," Vonon says, standing in the open airlock, to the approaching Daryen, "I thought I made it clear that you needed to speak with Chief Engineer Khea, and that if she gave her approval, then you'd be welcome aboard.  If you've come here to appeal to me again, my position has not changed--you need to go speak with Chief Engineer Khea."
Sylvester Jinx
player, 50 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Fri 10 May 2019
at 10:47
  • msg #284

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"I have spoken to her, I spell her on the night shift now captain. May I come aboard?"
Samantha Kilgore
player, 486 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Fri 10 May 2019
at 15:02
  • msg #285

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sam had no questions and joined in Walter's toast, standing after he did to clink glasses with him.

Settling back down she said "So thats the business sorted, but were is teh ship heading too next? ANyone any thoughts?"

Walter Zeller
player, 535 posts
Merchant/Noble
Fri 10 May 2019
at 17:33
  • msg #286

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

[TAS]
"Looks like we are heading to Invermory, the next subsector over." Sir Walter said as he brought up the system. "It is a rich agricultural world so items like the precious metals should bring a decent price. Going to have to hold on to the radioactives unless I can get a good price." he added as he did some mental calcualtions .
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 486 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sat 11 May 2019
at 02:37
  • msg #287

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

[ROCKPORT SPACE DOCKS, BERTH 270, IAF LONGSHOT]
Sylvester Jinx:
"I have spoken to her, I spell her on the night shift now captain. May I come aboard?"


Vonon lowers his muzzle and shakes his head,

"Dammit.  You know, I'd be willing to bet that if we were in the Hierate, she'd have dumped that straight to the local interweb, or whatever they have, there." Vonon says, raising his right hand with index finger pointing upwards, "Your patience for a further moment, please, Citizen..."

Vonon then moves his right hand to his neck and works his fingers under the open collar of the fluorescent lime-green ship's jumpsuit he's wearing.

"Open communications." Vonon says, "Contact personal communicator of Kheaiftouaw, via local comm-networks.  Initiate."

[TAS HOSTEL, LOUNGE]

     From one of the pocket/pouches of Khea's outfit comes the muted sound of a few seconds of an Aslan kitten crying.  The sound repeats itself, over and over.


OOC:  So, Khea, did I guess correctly on the ringtone you'd assign to Vonon?  ^_^
Or, would you have gone with the sound of a tiny Dog yap-yapping? ^_^
Sylvester Jinx
player, 55 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Sat 11 May 2019
at 16:05
  • msg #288

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

An ankle biter yip yip yip! ^_^
Kheaiftouaw
player, 631 posts
Aslan outcast
Sun 12 May 2019
at 21:04
  • msg #289

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Finally about to try the drink that was promised to her ages ago Khea is again interrupted by someone calling her comm. And as the amount of people who knew her comm code can be counted on one hand and half of them are still here its not hard to guess who that is.

"What is it Vonon"?
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 487 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Mon 13 May 2019
at 02:38
  • msg #290

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Kheaiftouaw (msg # 289):

Vonon is, indeed, on the comm,

COMMS >>> "Reah, Khea, I have that blonde, pointy-eared guy--Silvery Jenks?--Hey, buddy, what was your name, again?  Reah, reah, right."

"He says he's Sylvester Jinx--that person I told you to talk to about joining your engineering crew.  He says you said he's hired, and now he wants aboard the Longshot.  It would have been nice if you'd told me that, before I had to find him a bunk.  Hell, Khea, I just got back aboard, myself!  I have no idea where--or how many--open bunks we have!  I'm not even sure where I'm sleeping, tonight!"

"Now that I think about it, I'm not even sure which stateroom is yours..."

"So, is this guy okay to come aboard, or what?  I also got that Horatio guy here, plus Sharik's friend, too--she'll be moving aboard tonight, I assume."

"I may be the Captain, now, and I'm still willing to help out with vacuuming staterooms and doing laundry--but I'm not a Ship's Steward!  If Sir Walter is there, would you please tell him to send whoever is picking up the Ship Steward duties, now that Kaengarr is gone." <<< END COMMS (OOC: wait, he doesn't hang up, he just stops talking)
Sylvester Jinx
player, 58 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Mon 13 May 2019
at 10:32
  • msg #291

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester just smiles at Vonon, "I'll wait then, as 'concierge', I can be a steward too in a pinch."
Kheaiftouaw
player, 632 posts
Aslan outcast
Mon 13 May 2019
at 19:19
  • msg #292

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Making sure that the camera is turned off Khea makes a very annoyed face before replying.
"I didn't hire him, I said that I could use an underling and he has to convince you, so do your worse.
But I would appreciate if we could run a two shift engeineering crew so that I could go back to a normal sleep schedule and not have to work on a fusion reactor while barely keeping my eyes open"
Walter Zeller
player, 538 posts
Merchant/Noble
Tue 14 May 2019
at 00:35
  • msg #293

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Good question, Captain Vonon." Sir Walter said, suppressing a giggle.

"The only two with Steward experience is Kheaiftouaw and myself that I know of currently. Now if you have agreed to hire new members of the crew, you might want to hold off on departing until we run background checks, I double check their certifications, and get them set up on our pay book." he suggested.

"On where the new crew can bunk, first things first, you need to do the duffel bag drag to the Captains cabin. Since the Count departed, it has been empty as there was talk about turning it into a briefing room or an office that we have not done, so you might want to grab it before one of the new crew does. Not sure how many you agreed to hire, but more than twelve members of the crew and the new ones will need to start double bunking." he said before rattling off where everyone was located as far as he knew.

(Med bay side)
7-Vonon 10A-Samantha 10B-Sharik (?) 10C-Valeska (?) 10D-Evelyn(?) 11 (Med bay) 10E (Empty) 10F Pablo (near Ships locker)

(Galley Side)
8-Mess 9-Galley 10G (Empty) 10H-Serge (?) 10I-Sir Walter 10J-Khealftouaw 13-Rec room 10K (Empty)
Sylvester Jinx
player, 59 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Tue 14 May 2019
at 12:52
  • msg #294

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"I misunderstood the Aslan then? Hmmm. Then now is your turn then captain to get a great engineer before I slip through your fingers and join another operation. I'm the best engineer you'll find in these parts that is available. So I won't be available for long. Here is my resume"


SKILLS
  Comms 1
  Computer 2
  Electronics (remote operations) 0
  Engineering 0
  Engineering (maneuver) 1
  Engineering (jump) 2
  Mechanics 0
* Profession (farming) 0
* Gun Combat (slug pistol) 0
  Pilot (ship's boat) 1
  Sensors 1
* Swimming 0
* Trader 0
  Vacc Suit 2
This message was last edited by the player at 12:55, Tue 14 May 2019.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 488 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Wed 15 May 2019
at 04:31
  • msg #295

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Sylvester Jinx (msg # 294):

Vonon raises his eyes to the overhead and mumbles in his native Ovaghoun Vargr dialect for a few seconds.

"You both misunderstood me." Vonon says to both Sylvester and Khea, over the comm, "I said that Sylvester had the job depending upon Khea's approval--so I guess you should come aboard, Mister Jinx."

Vonon steps aside from the airlock, making room for Sylvester to pass.

COMMS>>>"Khea, please thank Sir Walter for the bunking info.  I'll check the staterooms and get things arranged.  Oh, and tell him, as one familiar with the Rockport bureaucracy, three days will be plenty of time to process that paperwork he mentioned.  See all of you later."<<<END COMMS Vonon takes his hand from the commdots on his neck that are sync'd to the communicator on his belt (as well as to the Longshots comm-system).
Samantha Kilgore
player, 487 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Wed 15 May 2019
at 07:04
  • msg #296

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Overhearing Walters comment Sam adds "I'm glad you made it clear its the noobs who will be double bunking. Not the more venerable crew members such as our good selves." Sam sipped some more of her drink, before adding thoughtfully "though if any of them are elligible batchelors, I might re think that..."
Walter Zeller
player, 539 posts
Merchant/Noble
Wed 15 May 2019
at 09:40
  • msg #297

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sir Walter chuckled. "We shall see. I would suggest that if that opportunity crosses your path, get a prenup before you take it any further. You would not want your shares of the company to be part of a divorce settlement now do you?" A strange comment from him but might answer an old question as he has talked about his children many times, but rarely his ex-wife.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 60 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Wed 15 May 2019
at 11:56
  • msg #298

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester walks past Vonon and then waits for him to do the paperwork and see the stateroom he is assigned. "Thank you captain, I'll await your pleasure for filling out the paperwork and such."
Kheaiftouaw
player, 633 posts
Aslan outcast
Wed 15 May 2019
at 19:39
  • msg #299

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Putting away her come Khea talks half to herself, half to Walther
"So now our captain is playing steward.
But its probably better to not let the new guy pick his own room.
Well, seems it is time to trade this tin can in space for our tin can in space...
Sharik Kaagira
player, 361 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Wed 15 May 2019
at 20:22
  • msg #300

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik raised an eyebrow at Walter's comment on divorce, but said nothing.  Her fingers remained busy as they flitted across the display of her dataglove.  Within a few seconds, she'd finished blasting off the resume and her recommendation for Sylvester to the Captain and Chief Engineer of the Longshot.  The station's network should be able to deliver the documents to the required recipients within seconds; C-Belt was hardly a backwater.

She noted that updated flight plan request on the crew channel and the (main) flight recorder (as well as the astrogation logs), and Shar immediately sent a batch of preliminary jump calculations spinning on the Longshot's central core.  Finalized numbers would require more precise location and velocity vectors as the jump time neared - but the iterative calculations could be started now and continually refined.  So, off her agent went to monitor the solution set to continually evolving multi-variate, n-dimensional, co-variant equation.

A slightly bemused smile crossed her burgundy lips, as the flurry of activity surrounding the crew was in stark contrast to the much more leisurely pace of morning and earlier afternoon.  "But when it rains," the diminutive astrogator mused quietly to herself, "it pours."  Ifni never seemed to fail in that regard.  But then, Sharik really wouldn't have it any other way.  It's not like with the funds she had she couldn't just buy her own island and checkout on the beach for the rest of her life.  But where was the fun in that?
Sylvester Jinx
player, 61 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Thu 16 May 2019
at 11:50
  • msg #301

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester found a quiet place in the corner to sit and wait on Vonon to get done with Horatio and the comms to get to him, and waited patiently.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 62 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Fri 17 May 2019
at 15:53
  • msg #302

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester nods greetings to Inderpal when she comes on board to go to her quarters.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 489 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sat 18 May 2019
at 09:25
  • msg #303

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Sylvester Jinx (msg # 301):

[ONBOARD THE LONGSHOT]

Re-sealing the airlock, Vonon turns and gathers up Horatio and Sylvester, and starts walking aft...

[OOC: refer to Main Game Map: Cargo Deck (Deck #2), the small hallway between the two Area 17's (the "floor hatch" icon represents the top of a ramp/airlock you just walked up)]

... through a large cargo hold with several different types of cargo containers secured to the deck... [Cargo Deck (Deck #2), Area 18] ... through a manual door-hatch in the middle of the aft bulkhead ... into a passageway and past a couple more manual door-hatches, then through another manual door-hatch at the end of the passageway ... into yet another passageway where manual door-hatches can be seen along either side--but Vonon stops at the first door-hatch on the starboard bulkhead (the left wall, from your current point of view, but starboard nonetheless).

Instead of immediately opening the hatch, though, Vonon reaches up to a small command pad on the wall next to the hatch and presses one of its buttons--then waits a couple of moments until an indicator lights up green.

Vonon opens the manual door-hatch and gestures for Horatio and Sylvester to precede him into what looks to be a fairly standard meter-and-a-half by meter-and-a-half lift chamber.  Vonon enters behind the two new crewmen, pulling the hatch shut behind himself and twirling the wheel to latch it.  He then shifts backwards (further into the lift car) a half-step, just as a pair of sliding doors close off sight of the manual hatch.

Reaching up to a small command pad mounted on the wall inside the lift--identical to the one seen out in the passageway--Vonon presses one of the upper buttons.  Though the lift's action iss smooth, in the close quarters you both can hear Vonon mumble a faint whisper of "...frelling archaic design...put this on the list, too..."

After a very short trip, the lift doors open.  Stepping out, you find yourselves standing with Vonon close to the aft end of a long passageway, with many iris-valve doors and a couple of manual hatch doors along the bulkheads to either side.

[OOC: Main Game Map: Main/Upper Deck (Deck #1), just in front of Area 16]

Vonon starts pointing out locations--the doors to some of which are clearly marked with signs--pointing first at an iris-valve door located right next to the lift, with a sign on the wall saying Fresher.

"This one here's a communal Fresher, with laundromatic." [Area 12] Vonon then points at an iris directly across the passageway, labeled Recreation.

"Rec-Room--got the vid library, couple card tables, some work-out equipment, small bar. [Area 13]  Just restocked it.  You have three days before we launch, if you want to get anything special for yourself."  Vonon then points out a manual hatch-door at the very aft end of the passageway, about 18 meters away,

"That's where we keep The Ultimate Answer To Everything." Vonon then drops his lower jaw in that peculiar way that Vargr smile, "Hurr-hurr.  But maybe you might know it better as an Airlock to The Vacuum of Space.  C'mon, the Mess-slash-Wardroom is forward of here--right next to the Bridge."

Vonon leads Horatio and Sylvester forward, past a couple of unlabeled iris'--but when he comes to a point in the passageway where a manual door-hatch is on the port bulkhead, directly opposite an iris on the star'bd bulkhead with a sign labeled Sick Bay, he points first at the manual door-hatch, "Dorsal Turret access [Area 15].  Approach with care--my buddy Pablo has a tendency to pop out of this hatch with a lot of vigor--he's slammed a few of us already.  We just can't seem to break him of the habit.  This is Sick Bay [Area 11]--we had a Medic, then we didn't, then we had a Doctor, then we didn't--now, I don't know.  I think somebody has some papers that say they are 'Medic Qualified', but I have a funny feeling that just means they read a book on First Aid, then took a standardized test."

As they get closer to the forward end of the passageway, it starts to become obvious that the passageway just opens into the bridge--as several of the stations, as well as some of the forward screen, begin to be seen.

"Galley..." [Area 9] Vonon says, touching an un-labeled iris on the portside bulkhead, as the three of them pass by it, followed by touching an iris on the opposite bulkhead a few seconds later, "Captains Quarters. [Area 7]  Mine now, I guess." then he turns and steps through the last iris door before the Bridge, on the portside bulkhead.

"And finally, the Mess hall. [Area 8]  Or Wardroom, depending on how you define these things." Vonon says, gesturing around, "This is were we take most meals, get most snacks.  Given its proximity to the Bridge, Coffee, Tea and Vilani Kaff are kept available here in the food automat--we don't have a coffee station actually on the Bridge, like modern Imperial ships do."

Vonon grins again, "You may have noticed, the Longshot is a rather old model.  And it is, in fact an old Guardian-class SDB--but that's not just an equally old Jump Shuttle strapped to its butt!  No, quite some time ago, it appears, somebody went to the trouble to modify the two ships into a single vessel--the SDB engines and powerplant were removed and the space converted to more cargo and fuel.  All the aft armor of the SDB that would be covered, now, by the Jump Shuttle was removed for weight savings.  The missile launchers and missile storage were removed for more cargo area. Finally, the Jump Shuttles powerplant was increased to make up a little for the power lost with the removal of the original SDB powerplant, then the two frames were welded together."

Vonon grins, "Well, okay, a little more than welded--but it is a permanent association, now.  The two vessels are now a single unit.  Or so I am informed--I believe there is a small control panel in Engineering with several switches marked 'Emergency Separation: Explosive Bolts', but I haven't had the urge to flip them...yet.  Hurr-hurr-hurr."

"Why don't you two wait here while I mess with the computer on the Bridge and figure out where I can bunk each of you.  Help yourselves to Kaff, or whatever.  There's creamer and molasses in storage next to the beverage dispenser--and there might even be some kibble to snack on.  You'll have to look."  Vonon turns and heads towards the door out of the Wardroom--which was open when all of you walked in, and is still open now.

"Shouldn't be but a moment.  Talk among yourselves.  Smoke'em if you got'em--but don't shoot the fire supressors!" he walks straight into the Bridge.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 63 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Sat 18 May 2019
at 11:19
  • msg #304

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester followed Vonon, taking in the guided tour, remembering where everything is in the ship that he is likely to need to go in the near term. The galley, the fresher, rec room and others.

He knew the drives would be unique since the ship was a hybrid. He accepted the challenge! "Nice place you have here captain."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:52, Sat 18 May 2019.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 64 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sun 19 May 2019
at 15:01
  • msg #305

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Inderpal boarded the ship and acknowledged Sylvester's greeting. She decided not to go on the guided tour, figuring that she would be best served navigating the ship herself so she could learn where everything was more quickly.

She would also need to ask where her room was at some point, but sticking a head in some of the others would be interesting.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:02, Sun 19 May 2019.
Horatio Aubrey
player, 24 posts
Sun 19 May 2019
at 15:04
  • msg #306

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Vonon Ronkunu (msg # 303):

Horatio sets down his Vac suit and luggage looks around the wardroom at the controls.  No use getting anything to drink because he could not carry it with his vacsuit in tow.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 65 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Sun 19 May 2019
at 15:06
  • msg #307

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"I wouldn't think of firing the fire suppressors!"
This message was last edited by the player at 17:13, Sun 19 May 2019.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 66 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Sun 19 May 2019
at 17:15
  • msg #308

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Inderpal Kumar (msg # 305):

PM
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 491 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sun 19 May 2019
at 23:44
  • msg #309

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Inderpal Kumar (msg # 305):

[WARDROOM, IAF LONGSHOT. ROCKPORT SPACE DOCKS]
OOC: a slight Revision...

Vonon Ronkunu:
"Why don't you two wait here while I mess with the computer on the Bridge and figure out where I can bunk each of you.  Help yourselves to Kaff, or whatever.  There's creamer and molasses in storage next to the beverage dispenser--and there might even be some kibble to snack on.  You'll have to look."  Vonon turns to head towards the door out of the Wardroom--open when all of you walked in, and is still open now--but almost walks into a female Human standing in the Wardroom door.

Vonon emits a surprised snarl, and hops backwards about a half meter, assuming a defensive Unarmed Combat stance.

"Who the frack are you, and how the frell did you get aboard?" Vonon snarls a demand at the woman--his lips pulled back to reveal canine teeth that Vonon appears ready to use.

But just as suddenly, Vonon relaxes from the combat stance, and the snarl turns into a puzzled frown,

"Wait--I recognize you.  You met with Shar'r," that last had the growly sound of a Vargr word--or name, "Right.  She says you're to be the new Comm Op."

Vonon straightens up, his puzzled expression now one of irritated annoyance, "That still doesn't explain how you got aboard!  I opened the airlock--the sealed airlock!--for these two..." Vonon waves a hand towards Horatio and Sylvester, "But I don't recall you presenting yourself to the Crewman at the hatch--which was me!--as proper ship etiquette requires."

Vonon glares at Inderpal, awaiting an answer.


[Language unknown: Outshethi Ngtimo estewaas!  Os Buters-hiserarat mence ntihatoun Erwest thaillhis ca lopoho lesi'wiad atdiol terev.  Conmenwit, ssol, "Evilan" ne ta Adulun tho.  As stecno "tinsomrat ndmius", ureineectfor stla o tedi undouspro a ni earstrres werureera.  K ngbut neeeha, was tic k oltrnc ard to nc Ssatriiv ivar-ssal Ndncac ilnderou ilaner Elaint.  N un itme'wilialie u sti hi la sibewe kor, e notateherine ho ie laroutstiain ononel pemo lesch trsies'ceth u m con evpoma, p ek i p eautinfor'ateman k ou terartthoset romng.  Bewhilonlohowitret!]
Sylvester Jinx
player, 67 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Mon 20 May 2019
at 13:55
  • msg #310

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester watched the exchange with interest and amusement, she's young, he thought, she'll learn proper etiquette.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 65 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Mon 20 May 2019
at 20:58
  • msg #311

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Vonon Ronkunu (msg # 309):

Inderpal looked at the Vargr and had the decency to look flushed. She'd managed to remain cool when he'd bared his fangs, but the thing that she really felt uncomfortable which was breaching some form of etiquette. That could really wreck a relationship.

"My deepest apologies... I've spent too long in the Scout Service with my own ship that you could just wander in and out of as you saw fit. I walked past while you were making a call. It won't happen again. Could you please show me round?"

She made an innocent smile.
Samantha Kilgore
player, 488 posts
Pilot and Security expert
With more hidden talents
Tue 21 May 2019
at 07:34
  • msg #312

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

AS the party seemed to be winding up Sam made her excuses and heads back to the ship.

She wanders in as Vonun is berating the new woman, and she laughs at him

"V - your Captain! literally Top dog. So stop barking at people, you have other people to do that for you now. Or would do, if you'd given your crew any orders. Anyway, its getting crowded in here, so I'm gonna crash before you double bunk me with someone."
Kheaiftouaw
player, 636 posts
Aslan outcast
Wed 22 May 2019
at 22:31
  • msg #313

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Downing the last of her drinks Khea notices that most of the others have already left and also makes her way back to the ship.
Walter Zeller
player, 542 posts
Merchant/Noble
Wed 22 May 2019
at 23:49
  • msg #314

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

With the party winding down, Sir Walter looked over his computer to see if there was a response from Serge or Pablo to his offer of investing in the new company before heading back to his room at TAS. The room was okay on the ship but he finds that he likes his creature comforts the older he has gotten. That and having room service.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 493 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Thu 23 May 2019
at 05:32
  • msg #315

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Samantha Kilgore (msg # 312):

Inderpal Kumar:
"My deepest apologies... I've spent too long in the Scout Service with my own ship that you could just wander in and out of as you saw fit. I walked past while you were making a call. It won't happen again. Could you please show me round?"

She made an innocent smile.


Samantha Kilgore:
She wanders in as Vonun is berating the new woman, and she laughs at him

"V - you're Captain! literally Top dog. So stop barking at people, you have other people to do that for you now. Or would do, if you'd given your crew any orders. Anyway, its getting crowded in here, so I'm gonna crash before you double bunk me with someone."

     "I am not barking at anyone!" Vonon barks back at Samantha, "I am trying to handle the sudden influx of personnel who aren't even supposed to be here until tomorrow."
Sharik Kaagira
player, 363 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Thu 23 May 2019
at 08:07
  • msg #316

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik didn’t linger once the party broke up,  She didn’t really have any place that she needed to be, but it wasn’t fashionable to be last one left to turn the lights off (so, to speak),  Like, Sir Walter, the Longshot’s navigator wasn’t necessarily eager to return to the ship immediately.  The duty roster had been posted and the flight plan logged.  Since they weren’t scheduled to take off for a while, the diminutive socialite returned to her accommodations at the TAS hostel.  She saw no reason to rush back to the more cramped stateroom that waited for her on the ship; she’d been cooped up in the room for weeks on end not more than 48 hours ago.

After spending some time freshening up in her room, Shar pinged Sir Walter to see if he was still interested in a stroll about the station.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 77 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Thu 23 May 2019
at 12:15
  • msg #317

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester barely controls a smirk and laugh as Vonon yells at Sam. It appeared he had picked a good ship!
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 497 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Fri 24 May 2019
at 08:24
  • msg #318

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

OOC:
Kheaiftouaw:
Downing the last of her drinks Khea notices that most of the others have already left and also makes her way back to the ship.

     Khea--obviously you would have an access code to open the sealed airlock.  The ship isn't on Lockdown, the "front door" is just locked.
     Feel free to butt in anytime ^_^
Walter Zeller
player, 544 posts
Merchant/Noble
Fri 24 May 2019
at 14:12
  • msg #319

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

+++That would be fine Ms. Kaagira, I can use the company. I was thinking of paying Star Patterns Trading outlet store a visit and ordering a Servitor Robot, maybe with some additional programing and options.+++ Walter said.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 67 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Sat 25 May 2019
at 09:23
  • msg #320

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Vonon Ronkunu:
In reply to Samantha Kilgore (msg # 312):

Inderpal Kumar:
"My deepest apologies... I've spent too long in the Scout Service with my own ship that you could just wander in and out of as you saw fit. I walked past while you were making a call. It won't happen again. Could you please show me round?"

She made an innocent smile.


Samantha Kilgore:
She wanders in as Vonun is berating the new woman, and she laughs at him

"V - you're Captain! literally Top dog. So stop barking at people, you have other people to do that for you now. Or would do, if you'd given your crew any orders. Anyway, its getting crowded in here, so I'm gonna crash before you double bunk me with someone."

     "I am not barking at anyone!" Vonon barks back at Samantha, "I am trying to handle the sudden influx of personnel who aren't even supposed to be here until tomorrow."


Inderpal decided at this point to pour some oil on troubled waters.

"I can come back tomorrow if you prefer.", she says sweetly, "Just let me know what time you want me to turn up. I don't want to be too inconvenient..."

She reached inside her jacket for her Comm to add the time to her day planner.
Valeska Brandenberg
player, 83 posts
Sun 26 May 2019
at 03:17
  • msg #321

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Valeska heads back to the ship. All her planetside business had been concluded, but upon seeing all the new crew members, she starts to wonder what's going on!

Then it occurs to her: it must be Walter's investment opportunity.

She decided to see what was on the stock exchange about his corporation... if it was even listed yet.

Her computer search quickly turned up a bit of buzz on social media... about the Longshot. The ship/crew had acquired a bit of a reputation.

No wonder people were coming out of the woodwork!

She decided then to review the CVs of the new people. Most of them it was easy to pigeonhole, but it quickly became apparent that they were missing a few skilled people. With Aimee gone, they still didn't have a medic, though they now seemed to be knee-deep in engineers!

She did another computer search of the base to see if there were any Medics out there wanting to get off world.

There were only a few. It seemed as if most medics here were content to practice medicine where they were needed. Wait! At the very bottom, she recognized the last name: Reese Hardsimm. Medic wasn't his primary COS, but he was on the list because he did have some skill... according to his CV.

It had been awhile, though. He might have changed. Maybe she should contact him.
Reese Hardsimm
player, 2 posts
Sun 26 May 2019
at 23:06
  • msg #322

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sitting in the corner table of a small cafe, his back to the wall and facing the entrance as a matter of habit, Reese watches as a pair of Vargr Security officers question one of the less successful rock hoppers who was just refused service for lack of funds.  Predictably the miner becomes belligerent and the officers take him down a few notches before hauling him in for vagrancy.

Reese sips at his green tea and consciously keeps his face expressionless as he scans the station net on his portable computer for news.. A listing of ships at port starts to scroll by...

Independent Armed Freighter Longshot
Departs for Planet Invermory, Confederation of Duncinae
Time: (counting down from 72 hours) Hours
Interested Shippers should contact Sir Walter Zeller, Ship's Trader


~Invermory~ Reese thinks to himself letting his eyebrows raise in a moment lacking self-consciousness.. ~that would be a nice change of scenery.. If I have to see one more surly Vargr hassling a human I'm liable to lose my mind..~

Reese thumbs payment for the tea and putting his computer into tunic heads out onto the thoroughfare. ~Maybe I'll just head down to the docks; it didn't say anything about passage available but I have marketable skills..~
This message was last edited by the player at 23:24, Sun 26 May 2019.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 86 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Mon 27 May 2019
at 11:26
  • msg #323

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester settles back for the continued paperwork and sign on then goes to his assigned quarters to put away his things when they are finally assigned. He stretches out in his rack to get the feel of it then inspects the ship and engine room.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:42, Mon 27 May 2019.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 637 posts
Aslan outcast
Mon 27 May 2019
at 23:34
  • msg #324

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Opening the airlock Khea could immediately hear Vonon's barking and the general business inside the ship.
"If you wanted to continue the party you should have stayed at the bar. And whatever you do, stay out of the machine room" she shouted down the hallway.
Serge Baklanov
player, 79 posts
Marine/Scout
Tue 28 May 2019
at 14:25
  • msg #325

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

A delivery truck loaded with various boxes stopped near Longshot. Serge was receiving the ordered items and directed movers where they should put the boxes:
- Okay, place it right here! That's right!
- Unload it here, thank you!
- Careful, it's fragile!
- Oh yeah... - Serge stroked one of the boxes. - Pablo will envy me when he sees it.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 14:28, Tue 28 May 2019.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 87 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Wed 29 May 2019
at 12:15
  • msg #326

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Need a hand with the crates?" Sylvester asks Serge after finishing his paperwork. "I'm Sylvester Jinx, a new engineer."
Serge Baklanov
player, 80 posts
Marine/Scout
Thu 30 May 2019
at 07:59
  • msg #327

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Sylvester Jinx (msg # 326):

- Oh... Greetings! - Serge offered his hand to Sylvester. - I'm Serge. A scout... basically. And a gunner on Longshot. Yes, some help will be useful here, thank you. I did some shopping, before we leave civilized space, you see.
Walter Zeller
player, 545 posts
Merchant/Noble
Thu 30 May 2019
at 10:36
  • msg #328

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Meeting up with Sharik, Walter checked out the samples that were available at the Star Patterns Trading outlet store.

"Good day, I would to check out your Servitor Robot with some non-lethal defenses, maybe a stunner and a grenade launcher for aerosol, smoke, and stun grenade, no frag. If possible, advanced medical programing for  Aslan, Human, and Vargr." he said.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 88 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Thu 30 May 2019
at 11:23
  • msg #329

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester helps Serge stow his boxes, they're heavy and he can hear the clinking of bottles. He smiles a knowing smile.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 364 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Thu 30 May 2019
at 18:48
  • msg #330

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik apologized to Sir Walter for making him wait in the lobby for her.  The diminutive socialite had changed her clothes; gone were her (slightly) more formal bolero-style jacket and boots which had been exchanged for a more casual (and yet still stylish - and undeniably tailored, from the rather flattering cut) coverall with faux groat aviators style jacket and work boots.  She still had all of her electronics on her left forearm and belt and over her eyes and ears, but her hair was tied back with a fetching, silver band which matched the motif offered by her belt, bracelets and earrings.

She walked with him to Star Patterns, navigating the stations bright corridors efficiently having walked them fairly extensively the day before.  The auburn-haired astrogator noted to her companion, "The ostensible tech level here is on the cusp of what you are looking for I suspect..."  Which might mean that they could pay through the nose.  Or not.  The frontier could be like that.

Shar raised an eyebrow at Walter's requested kit for the 'servitor'.  Originally, she'd assumed that he simply missed the creature comforts when there base frame had been mentioned.  "Perhaps we should split out those two sets of functionality, Sir Walter, separate Auto-docs and sentry drones would be fine additions to the ship." she suggested off-hand, adding playfully, "Or are you expecting to require more personalized protection and attention on-board."  She kept her tone purposefully light.
Marcus Fallin
player, 9 posts
Thu 30 May 2019
at 18:56
  • msg #331

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Marcus approached the ship, eyeing it with a discerning glance. It wasn't the type traders one found out here, but it looked spaceworthy enough. Hopefully the rumors he had heard were true, as the ship's name seemed to match his chances of finding employment. Longshot.

Reaching the boarding ramp, Marcus announces himself, "Capt. Marcus Fallin, requesting permission to come aboard."
Walter Zeller
player, 546 posts
Merchant/Noble
Thu 30 May 2019
at 20:48
  • msg #332

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sir Walter waited for Sharik to come on down, his nose in his computer doing some work  before the ship departed. Once she arrive, he stood up and greeted her, commenting on her outfit before heading to Star Patterns

Sir Walter smiled at the question concerning splitting the cost "With two auto docs on the ship, there is no worry on that end." he said. "I was thinking of getting one, more as a status symbol. I also have a strong sense of survival and getting things that are practical, so have it be able to act as a medic, maybe toss in legal programing to help with all the loopholes the company can run into is not a bad idea. Would the option of adding a legal services upgrade also be available?" he asked as he turned back to the clerk.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 365 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Thu 30 May 2019
at 22:18
  • msg #333

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik chuckled at Walter's rather self-deprecating assessment of his desires to maintain 'status'.  Especially with this crew; she'd be surprised if any of the newcomers actually asked for permission to come aboard the Longshot.  Shaking her head, she mused rather playfully, "Boys and their toys..."  Which, of course, the auburn-haired technophile was hardly one to talk given her own network of personal electronic gadgets arrayed upon her diminutive frame - which is why she knew that Sir Walter would get the joke.  It was the pot calling the kettle black after all.

"So," the waifish socialite quipped idly, "What are you going to name him?  Surely, not 'Jeeves'..."  It had always seemed that everyone named their servitor that.  Well, probably that was the default and like the clock displays on microwave ovens and DVRs, they never got over-ridden properly.

Shar did add more seriously to the weapons dialogue, "You probably should also look at needlers.  They can be more versatile in their payloads than stunners."  She shrugged slightly, since she herself carried a stunner generally, "But armour penetration can be an issue.  But that is an issue with any non-lethal option really." Beyond sonics, of course, which were generally countered easily in their own way.

Then the robotic animal section caught her attention, her expression brightening visibly.  "Oh!" Sharik chirped, her interest piqued, "What about a canine form-factor?"  She started to scroll through the options.  There were no manipulators; so, serving drinks and such was out.  But it could be more innocuous and the 'uncanny valley' threshold for robotic dogs (and other animals) was often more lax.  And though it had been a while since she owned one, her family had plenty of livestock, horses, and sundry free-romaing pets when she was younger.  One of the perks coming from a resort-reserve planet.

Shar seemed to be seriously contemplating a robotic canine companion.  They could be interesting mascots and sentries as well.
Walter Zeller
player, 547 posts
Merchant/Noble
Thu 30 May 2019
at 23:22
  • msg #334

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sir Walter chuckled. "I think I might be the least technological person on the ship." he said. "Other than my computer that pretty much does not leave my side, and a laser rifle that I do not know how to use, other than which end to point, that's pretty much it for personal technology." he added with a sly smile, looking at Sharik.

"Not sure on the name. I might look at its make and model number and go from there. If I get one used, then I will go with what it already has. As to arming it, I had considered something more powerful but if it comes down to that, then I have failed somewhere and hope that I am with those that are far more versed in applied mayhem than myself."
Sylvester Jinx
player, 90 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Fri 31 May 2019
at 11:33
  • msg #335

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

After Sylvester helps Serge move his boxes on board, he settles back in his quarters out of the way for a bit, knowing things are hectic as they are getting ready to jump.
Horatio Aubrey
player, 25 posts
Fri 31 May 2019
at 15:41
  • msg #336

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Horatio stows his kit and vacsuit then heads to the lower decks.  First he familiarizes himself with the drone controls and his station at the Aux Bridge.  Then he goes to the bottom deck and inspects each drone in it's bay.

He waves to Sylvester and Serge while they load cargo in the secondary cargo bay.  His electronic kit open as he tests each of the recon drones.
Reese Hardsimm
player, 6 posts
Fri 31 May 2019
at 17:24
  • msg #337

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

While strolling down to the docks Reese considers his pitch to get hired on as crew.. ~I'm the sneakiest SOB you're likely to find...~ perhaps, if the crew reads as in need of a shifty type... ~I can out shoot most Marines...~ maybe, if there are no obvious Marines present.. ~I've served as ship's medic on three pirate ships..~ maybe leave out the Pirate part..

~Medic is probably the best way to go.. even if they have a ship's Doctor a good nurse is always handy, especially for away missions..~

Reese mentally inventories his personal supplies until he spies a robotics store. ~Oh, I could use some nano-repair bots! I'll just pop in here and see if I can get some..~ Reese walks in and looks for a sales person; there aren't many people present; a woman with a baby probably looking for a domestic, a noble of some sort... ~ah, there's an attractive woman with quite a bit of wearable tech, maybe she's the sales person?~

Reese walks towards the two and sees a third person and as he does; he overhears the noble say "With two auto docs on the ship, there is no worry on that end. I was thinking of getting one, more as a status symbol. I also have a strong sense of survival and getting things that are practical, so have it be able to act as a medic, maybe toss in legal programing to help with all the loopholes the company can run into is not a bad idea. Would the option of adding a legal services upgrade also be available?"

Reese decides the third person he hadn't noticed for a display is the sales rep and politely waits his turn, looking at a small hovering drone display.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:26, Fri 31 May 2019.
StarMaster
GM, 928 posts
Fri 31 May 2019
at 22:07
  • msg #338

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Greetings. I am Marta. Our supply of fluff robots is pretty limited," the salesperson replies to Walter. "We don't have the luxury of servant-type robots here on Rockport. If a robot is doing your job, then that means you aren't doing it. If you aren't doing anything useful, then you aren't needed--you'll be deported soon enough."

"For what you want, I'm guessing a worker droid or a military droid isn't going to do."

"I'm reluctant to mention it, but the only option we have that fits your criterion is an Anthro... we don't use the term skinjob. It's a used model. We accepted it in trade awhile ago. It looks good on the books as inventory."

"Unfortunately, it's also malfunctioning slightly. Veronika is a Fembot-3000. She's developed a slight speech impediment and she doesn't always obey commands accurately. We just haven't gotten anyone qualified to repair yet."

"I can let you have her for half price--9MCr."
Serge Baklanov
player, 81 posts
Marine/Scout
Fri 31 May 2019
at 22:38
  • msg #339

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Horatio Aubrey:
He waves to Sylvester and Serge while they load cargo in the secondary cargo bay.  His electronic kit open as he tests each of the recon drones.


Serge was visibly astonished to see another unfamiliar face in the cargo bay. He waves back to Horatio.
- Uh... Hello there. I haven't seen you before, mister..?
Walter Zeller
player, 548 posts
Merchant/Noble
Fri 31 May 2019
at 23:37
  • msg #340

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Walter turned pale at the mention of the price. "Excuse me, 9 million credits? That is way more than what I was looking at spending." he said. When he saw Veronika, he started blushing. "Um, no. Where did you get it from, a brothel?" Walter said doing his best to not start laughing at the notion of him and a fembot.

"I was thinking more of a custom order and having it drop shipped to my families warehouse at Outpost. Is that an option here or would I need to travel to another system?" he asked.
Reese Hardsimm
player, 8 posts
Sat 1 Jun 2019
at 03:23
  • msg #341

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Hearing the Noble's plans were going awry, Reese decided to take a chance.

"Excuse me, I don't mean to interrupt but I couldn't help but overhear. It sounds like your ship may be in need of a medic? I've been acting ships Doctor on three ships in the past, and I happen to be looking for work." Reese proffers his hand and says "Reese Hardsimm, at your service."
Horatio Aubrey
player, 26 posts
Sat 1 Jun 2019
at 14:13
  • msg #342

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Serge Baklanov:
Serge was visibly astonished to see another unfamiliar face in the cargo bay. He waves back to Horatio.
- Uh... Hello there. I haven't seen you before, mister..?


I'm the new droid pilot and tactical officer. He wipes his hands on a cloth and holds one out. Horatio Aubry.  Late of the Imperial Navy.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 91 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Sat 1 Jun 2019
at 14:20
  • msg #343

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"I'm Sylvester Jinx, an engineer here on the ship. I'm late from the Darrian Confederation Navy, I've been travelling about a year getting here, decided to sign aboard ship and see even more of the Imperium. I'm new too. Trying to make myself useful right now"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 14:21, Sat 01 June 2019.
StarMaster
GM, 929 posts
Sat 1 Jun 2019
at 16:01
  • msg #344

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Sir, the Fembot 3000 sells new for 18 million credits!" Marta replies to Walter.

"It's a true anthropomophic humaniform robot! It is not meant as a girlfriend or sex toy; it's appearance is merely meant to be pleasing to the eye. As a robot, she is functional 30 hours a day. She only needs personal maintenance once a month, which she can do herself."

"She is not designed for military action and only has basic bodyguard and defensive capabilities. She can speak 27 languages. Her primary functions are secretary, personal assistant, housekeeper and general factotum. Oh, and I believe her last owner had programmed her to be a sommelier. Level 2, I think; I don't really know much about it."

"She can be programmed for up to a dozen additional Civilian Occupational Specialties. That would include medical and legal."

"As for a custom order, yes, I suppose we could order you something, but it would take up to a year for it to be delivered here. Rockport does not have robot manufacturing facilities; all our manufactured goods have to be imported."

"It does sound like you might be looking more for a protocol droid, but we have none of those in stock. They aren't very popular here. Mining droids are what sell here."

"Oh, I know what you are probably thinking... that a protocol droid would be good for trade negotiations. Well, they aren't. If they were strictly dealing with another droid, sure--it'd be all about numbers. People don't tend to trust droids when it comes to finances. They don't expect to be cheated, but they also don't expect the droid to get them the best deal. That has to do with a droid's lack of expression and nuance and intuitive leaps. Droids are seldom capable of thinking beyond the immediate deal, such as making a poor deal today for a greater deal six months from now. That sort of thing. Not that they can't, but, again, people don't trust them to do that and so seldom program them that deep."

"Let's try it this way... what's the best offer you can give me for Veronika?"

At that point, Veronika speaks!

"Greetings, Sir Walter Zeller. I am Veronika. Based on my model number and age, as well as my programming and perceived malfunctions, I am only worth 1.1 million credits. The current models of Fembot are the 5000 series."

"However, if you cannot afford that price at this time, it can be amortized over 10 years with a monthly payment of 10,000Cr for a final cost of 1.2MCr. I am fully warranted by Naasirka Corporation for that amount of time."

"Be quite, Veronika. Sir Walter is a human. He can make up his own mind."
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:04, Sat 01 June 2019.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 499 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sun 2 Jun 2019
at 06:37
  • msg #345

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Horatio Aubrey (msg # 342):
Walter Zeller
player, 549 posts
Merchant/Noble
Sun 2 Jun 2019
at 09:50
  • msg #346

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

As Veronika started to talk, he cocked up an eyebrow in thought. "Well now, since you are able to diagnose yourself, what repairs would you need? Please list them by priority, and what cost and skills are needed to complete the repairs. Also, having not meet one of your type, would you be able to survive in space or would you require a vacc suit?" he asked.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 93 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Sun 2 Jun 2019
at 18:17
  • msg #347

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"You need a hand with anything Horatio? We're just finishing up bringing his 'cargo' on board the ship?"
Serge Baklanov
player, 82 posts
Marine/Scout
Sun 2 Jun 2019
at 18:31
  • msg #348

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Horatio Aubrey:
I'm the new droid pilot and tactical officer. He wipes his hands on a cloth and holds one out. Horatio Aubry.  Late of the Imperial Navy.


- Serge Baklanov, Imperial Scout, - Serge shakes hands. - Welcome aboard.
Then he checks the crates and made some notes in his datapad.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 638 posts
Aslan outcast
Sun 2 Jun 2019
at 21:37
  • msg #349

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Khea watches the activities in the cargo bay for a while, but had no intention of helping out. This was a task for common crewman after all.

Eventually though she loses interest and looks for Vonon inside the ship.
"How many people did you hire exactly? We might need to set up shifts for the mess hall. I will look into that"
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 501 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Mon 3 Jun 2019
at 06:44
  • msg #350

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

     When Khea finds Vonon, he is standing in front of the door into the Captain's Quarters--his quarters, now--just standing there, his head down, making no effort to enter the room.

Kheaiftouaw:
"How many people did you hire exactly? We might need to set up shifts for the mess hall. I will look into that"

     For a moment Vonon is unresponsive--then he heaves a heavy sigh and, without looking up, speaks,

     "None, actually.  That's the really hilarious part." Vonon says in a deadpan, "I was thinking of hiring one or two, maybe buy a Utility-Cook Droid to man the galley--but I'd planned on discussing it tomorrow with everyone.  But during Sir Walter's dinner party, over a dozen recruitment ads hit the 'net for positions to be filled on this ship."

     "As far as I can tell, some of these people say that Sir Walter hired them, others say that I hired them--though I only remember ever telling one guy I'd hire him--and a couple others seem to think that they were hired by agents of the Spacer's Guild, acting on behalf of the Captain of the Longshot--and that's me, too, and I didn't make those arrangements.  I don't know who's responsible for this--though I have a small suspicion that it might be my own Pack making trouble for me--but I'm confident that neither myself or Sir Walter put out that many recruitment notices.  Khea, I haven't put out any recruitment notices, yet."

     Vonon finally turned to look at Khea--and he had a truly stricken look upon his muzzle.

     "Khea...do Aslan have the concept of a Predetermined Fate?" Vonon asked, an element of pleading in his voice, "We do.  We get it from the Humans--they have to have something to blame their shitty lives on, 'cuz they certainly aren't going to take responsibility upon themselves for it!"

     "Khea, I have this dreadful feeling of certainty that the Fate of this ship is already decided and that nothing I do can alter that Fate.  Like, if I were to assemble everyone in the Rec Room, I wouldn't recognize one-third of the faces I saw there.  And I know for a fact that if I was to tell that group of people I didn't recognize that a mistake had been made, and we didn't need their services--I just know that ten minutes later I'd be sitting on the Bridge, surrounded by those same people performing the jobs of hired crewmen, and everyone would be acting as if I'd never even tried to let them all go!"

     A whine was starting to creep into Vonon's voice, now "Khea, I just know that that is the way the Universe is going to be, and that nothing I do--no action I take--will stop the Universe from becoming that way!  And it's freaking me out!"
Sylvester Jinx
player, 95 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Mon 3 Jun 2019
at 11:09
  • msg #351

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

OOC - ROFLMAO! I almost passed out laughing so hard God I love this game!

Sylvester goes to Engineering to see if he can be of any help to Kheaiftouaw on the jump or maneuver drives or even the power plant which he didn't know as well but was ready to learn more about. Especially on this hybrid ship!
This message was last edited by the player at 12:33, Mon 03 June 2019.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 639 posts
Aslan outcast
Mon 3 Jun 2019
at 19:59
  • msg #352

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Don't you get philosophical with me. Thats something men do when they have nothing to do while we handle all important tasks.

But as you asked, we have no predetermined fate, but aokol, moments when you are completely in sync with the universe and can perform a single action with total clarity.

But that is normally a good thing, so if you have an aokol its the worst in recorded history. Rather you seem to have the opposite.

Looking down to the obviously stressed out Vargr she adds
"If it helps thinning out the applicants, tell them I eat those that perform badly. Lets see how many know that we Aslan don't do that anymore. Well, most of us at least."
Walter Zeller
player, 550 posts
Merchant/Noble
Tue 4 Jun 2019
at 01:16
  • msg #353

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Reese Hardsimm:
Hearing the Noble's plans were going awry, Reese decided to take a chance.

"Excuse me, I don't mean to interrupt but I couldn't help but overhear. It sounds like your ship may be in need of a medic? I've been acting ships Doctor on three ships in the past, and I happen to be looking for work." Reese proffers his hand and says "Reese Hardsimm, at your service."


Sir Walter held up a hand for a second. "If you wait outside please, it would be rude for me to conduct ships business in another company's store." he said, short and to the point.

Once business was finished, "Sorry about that. Now while I understand your zeal to find employment, that to me is the same as a drug rep trying to sell you something while you are operating on a patient if the roles were reversed. This is Sharik Kaagira, Chief Astrogator. I am Doctor Sir Walter Zeller, (Doctor of Galactic Trade), Broker and Chief Paper pusher." Sir Walter said as he made introductions.

"Now, you say you are a medic and have acted as a ships doctor? That is all well and good. I would suggest however, that you speak to the Captain first. Once Captain Vonon tells me that he is considering hiring you, then I will review your credentials and give him my input. If there is any indication of the sudden influx of crew members, if you are hired, you will most likely have to double bunk as room is tight. I can tell you right now though, we have two Auto-docs in sick bay and about half the crew know what buttons that need to be pushed to get it to work, myself included. And to add to that equation, we have an Aslan Chief Engineer and the Captain is a Vargr, so that might be something to consider in your application." Sir Walter said, glad to be back on the administrative side and not acting as the Captain.
Reese Hardsimm
player, 11 posts
Tue 4 Jun 2019
at 02:36
  • msg #354

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Reese’s eyes narrow slightly as he is curtly dismissed and his hand is ignored. “Forgive me for offering an alternative to being extorted by the poorly stocked robotics store. Clearly I was mistaken.”

Reese does not wait outside for the noble, instead continuing to the docks. ~Nobles and barking Vargr, that’s two things I’ve had my fill of..~  Reese imagines The Longshot with a motley crew of burly spacers. ~Maybe a step back towards the pirate ships but more reputable, that’s what I need..~
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 503 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Tue 4 Jun 2019
at 08:16
  • msg #355

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Kheaiftouaw (msg # 352):

     Vonon listens to Khea, his apparent disquiet seeming to fade as she speaks--in fact, he is about to inform Khea that he already tells applicants that they are subject to being eaten by her, when the ship's intercom chimes, followed by an unfamiliar voice.

Marcus Fallin:
"Capt. Marcus Fallin, requesting permission to come aboard."

     Vonon's ears fall back, laying flat to his head, and his eyes narrow.

     "Oh, good." Vonon says to Khea,

     "It looks like I've hired a new Ship's Captain--about whom I know nothing--and he's now reporting for duty!" Vonon snarls, "I am so pissed, right now, I think I may let him have the damn job--but only if he fights me for it!  I really need to rip somebody a new dermis!"

OOC:
Stateroom Assignments:
     This is where we are, now, on Stateroom Assignments.  Some of you have been moved, so check this carefully--double check against the map I posted in the "Travellers Aid Society, Too" thread, if you need to.

(starb'd) 10-a: Samantha Kilgore, Senior Pilot
(starb'd) 10-b: Sharik Kaagira, Senior Astrogator & Chief Sensors & Comps Operator
    (port) 10-c: Inderpal Kumar, Senior Comms Officer
(starb'd) 10-d: Valeska Brandenberg,
    (port) 10-e: Sylvester Jinx, Engineering
(starb'd) 10-f: Evelyn Darque, (See below)
    (port) 10-g: Sir Walter, Ship's Trader, Ship's Cargomaster, Ship's Purser.
    (port) 10-h: Kheaiftouaw, Chief Engineer
(starb'd) 10-i: Horatio Aubrey, Senior Drone Op & Ship's Tactical Officer
(starb'd) 10-j: Pablo Esteban Ryzov, Ship Security & Gunner
    (port) 10-k: Serge Baklanov, Ship Security & Gunner
     Still Unassigned-- Marcus Fallin, Reese Hardsimm, and Montgomery Ashburn (but I'm working on it!)

     Valeska, expect a PM from me concerning your Quarters.
     StarMaster, expect a PM from me concerning NPC Abuse--I wanna do some.

     Evelyn Darque--Congratulations!  Cap'n Vonon is not going to send you a PM--he's gonna mess with you right here, IN PUBLIC!  Yay...
  So, Evelyn, in reviewing your "resume" (i.e., looking over your Skill List) I have decided that the perfect position for you aboard this ship is not as a Human Duct Cleaner, but instead you appear to be able to perform much more significant skills--skills which are of much more value than just letting you scuttle around in our air system.

     Evelyn Darque, effective immediately, you are promoted to the position of Ship's Steward--as such you will also be Sir Walter's assistant in his roles as Ship's Purser and Ship's Cargomaster.  As your first act as Ship's Steward, I'm telling you to go to Sir Walter and tell him to purchase for your use a Utility Droid programmed as a Cook for use in the Galley--two Cooks, if he can find them cheap enough.  I strongly suggest you do this quickly, or else you will be running the Galley, come supper time.

     Also instruct him to purchase for your use another Utility Droid--or two, again, if cheap enough--programmed for Housekeeping Duties.  Unless you want to do all the laundry.  It's your choice, perform this job as a Supervisor of robots, or do all the dirty work yourself.

     You can inform Sir Walter that The Captain ordered you, to tell him, to do this.  He should charge it to the Ship Operations Account, as The Droids He Will Be Looking For will become property of the ship.
 ^_^
Sylvester Jinx
player, 98 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Tue 4 Jun 2019
at 10:52
  • msg #356

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

10e Port Aye-aye sir!
Reese Hardsimm
player, 13 posts
Tue 4 Jun 2019
at 21:14
  • msg #357

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

As Reese works his way towards the docks he thinks again.. ~Wait, what was the name of the guy I need to talk to on the ship?~ He pulls up the advert and stops dead in his tracks..

Independent Armed Freighter Longshot
Departs for Planet Invermory, Confederation of Duncinae
Time: (counting down from 72 hours) Hours
Interested Shippers should contact Sir Walter Zeller, Ship's Trader

Reese's shoulders slump. ~Well Frack! I have to deal with THAT guy!~ Reese trudges back to the robotics shop and waits outside for Sir Walter to finish his business.

~I guess it could be worse. Could have to deal with a Vargr..~ he thinks as Sir Walter comes out of the shop.


Sir Walter said
quote:
"Sorry about that. Now while I understand your zeal to find employment, that to me is the same as a drug rep trying to sell you something while you are operating on a patient if the roles were reversed. This is Sharik Kaagira, Chief Astrogator. I am Doctor Sir Walter Zeller, (Doctor of Galactic Trade), Broker and Chief Paper pusher." Sir Walter said as he made introductions.

"Now, you say you are a medic and have acted as a ships doctor? That is all well and good. I would suggest however, that you speak to the Captain first. Once Captain Vonon tells me that he is considering hiring you, then I will review your credentials and give him my input. If there is any indication of the sudden influx of crew members, if you are hired, you will most likely have to double bunk as room is tight. I can tell you right now though, we have two Auto-docs in sick bay and about half the crew know what buttons that need to be pushed to get it to work, myself included. And to add to that equation, we have an Aslan Chief Engineer and the Captain is a Vargr, so that might be something to consider in your application." Sir Walter said, glad to be back on the administrative side and not acting as the Captain.


~I SHOULD HAVE FIGURED! A VARGR CAPTAIN!~ With a deep breath to center himself, Reese speaks. "Thank you for the information Sir Zeller. I was actually just on my way to the Longshot after having read the posted ad looking for interested shippers when I stopped in the robotics shop on a whim. I now realize it was you that was listed as the person to contact. As I'm looking for work instead of a ship to carry cargo, I will do as you suggest and seek out the captain."

Reese adds as he starts to move away "And I won't insult your intelligence by pointing out the obvious advantages of an experienced sophant medical expert over a pair of auto-docs. Until we meet again, good day." He took some small satisfaction from backhandedly acknowledging and dismissing Sir Walter's second greatest insult to him in their brief pair of encounters and headed directly to the docks.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 366 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Tue 4 Jun 2019
at 21:50
  • msg #358

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik stifled a chuckle as the fembot was proffered and then tried to solicit Sir Walter herself.  A noncomittal smile played on her lips.  One that was only broken by the exchange between there the unemployed doctor and the harried broker; the exchanged caused Shar's expression to darken slightly, a raised eyebrow thrown Zeller's way as an interogative concerning his tone in dealing with the prospective medic.

But before she could say anything, the man excused himself.  Shar watched him leave the store, before muttering softly, "That went well..."  It did make her wonder about the man's bedside manner.  That and Vo's sanity; Walter sending another hiring prospect to the Captain had the potential to not go over well.

But then the diminutive astrogator shrugged lightly and then kibitzed playfully with her mercantile companion, "Sir Walter, I never knew that you were into dolls!"  The fembot would certainly turn heads, even once they got an acceptable level of clothing on the thing.  The fembot was anatomically correct; Sharik would give the designers that.  She'd never considered herself a prude - and the bot was pretty enough, but Shar had never understood how tape was a fashion statement.

She waited for both the salesperson and the robot herself to respond to Walter's request for more information; the price discrepancy required some resolution.  But since she didn't necessarily have the cash to splash it was no skin off of her back.  Still, the information would be insightful.  Besides, the cosmopolitan socialite found watching Sir Walter work fascinating.
Reese Hardsimm
player, 14 posts
Wed 5 Jun 2019
at 02:26
  • msg #359

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

~Zeller said I might have to double bunk if I'm hired on.. Maybe I can purchase a housing module and keep it in the cargobay?~ Reese thinks as he arrives at the docks.

Checking first with the dock master interface, Reese made his way to the docking bay for the Longshot. Once he arrived Reese tapped his comdot and said "Rockport Comm Central, please connect me with the Longshot, re: medical services."

While Reese waited for his call to go through he gave the area a once-over (OOC: Roll 4 + 3 (+2Recon) (+2Int) = 11), determining that someone had recently loaded several cargo crates to the ship.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 505 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Wed 5 Jun 2019
at 06:01
  • msg #360

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to (msg # 359):

[OUTSIDE IAF LONGSHOT FORWARD AIRLOCK]
Marcus Fallin:
Marcus approached the ship, eyeing it with a discerning glance. It wasn't the type traders one found out here, but it looked spaceworthy enough. Hopefully the rumors he had heard were true, as the ship's name seemed to match his chances of finding employment. Longshot.

Reaching the boarding ramp, Marcus announces himself, "Capt. Marcus Fallin, requesting permission to come aboard."

     Several seconds pass before the exterior airlock intercom activates, and a (probably) male voice speaking Imperial Anglic with the same accent that Marcus has been hearing around Rockport, responds--the voice even has the slight 'growly' quality that Marcus has been hearing from the local Vargr he's encountered.

     COMM START>>>  "Yeah, Captain...uh {sound of indecipherable whispering}...Captain Fallin.  Could you state the reason for your request to board?"  <<<COMM END
Marcus Fallin
player, 11 posts
Wed 5 Jun 2019
at 14:34
  • msg #361

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"I was informed that the ship was hiring crew, and would like to present my credentials to the Captain for consideration. While I was not informed as to what type of crew were being sought, I have many years experience in the Merchant Fleets, and have a wide array of skills that would be helpful. If this is not a convenient time, I can present myself later," he adds, hopeful that this trip wasn't wasted.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 508 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Thu 6 Jun 2019
at 01:40
  • msg #362

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Marcus Fallin (msg # 361):

Again, a few seconds go by before a response comes from the intercom,

COMM START>>>  "So...you're not here to replace the Ship's Captain, Captain?" the growly voice asks, sounding surprised--followed by a barely heard whispered command, "Stand Down the AutoDefenses!  He's not here to replace me!"

     In a more regular tone, the voice continues, "Well then, Captain, despite our hull silhouette, the Longshot is not a combat vessel--we're just an Independent Armed Freighter.  A little space mining on the side.  Your Merchie experience sounds interesting--"

     Who says 'Merchie'?  Only Navy Men and Port Cops call the Merchant Marine 'Merchies'...

     "--but are you sure you're not looking for a Military Billet, Captain?  Our limited Security needs are pretty well covered."  <<<COM ENDS
Sylvester Jinx
player, 105 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Thu 6 Jun 2019
at 12:19
  • msg #363

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester reports to Khea to see if there is anything she wants him to do in the Engine room, polish, or whatever! ;-)
Kheaiftouaw
player, 640 posts
Aslan outcast
Thu 6 Jun 2019
at 22:02
  • msg #364

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Polish? This is an engine room, not someones entrance hall.
You can run the full diagnostics and both the warmup and shutdown sequence. Consider it a test.
And if you want to earn extra points you can start to translate all the Darrian signs in here"
Sylvester Jinx
player, 106 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Fri 7 Jun 2019
at 11:12
  • msg #365

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"LOL Aya, aye ma'am, Translation and full diagnostics!" Sylvester immediately begins to do the entire start-up and shutdown diagnostics for Khea as instructed.

He then looks for a labeler so he can relabel all of the Darrian script into Imperial Anglic.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:01, Fri 07 June 2019.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 107 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Sat 8 Jun 2019
at 13:55
  • msg #366

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Start-up and shut-down diagnostics complete and everything is operating well within parameters. Re-labeling is 60% complete and will be done tonight. Anything else need to be done?"

He then plans on seeing Sir Walter before the day is out.


"Sir Walter? Sylvester Jinx. I'd like to get together to buy into your corporation and the ship. I need skin in the game to become independently wealthy, not that I have nothing. One million credits to buy into the ship, and three million to buy into Longshot Enterprises LIC I think you call it, Feel free to correct me where I err."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:23, Sat 08 June 2019.
StarMaster
GM, 931 posts
Sat 8 Jun 2019
at 19:28
  • msg #367

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Short of converting some of the cargo bays into more staterooms, or doubling up the existing staterooms (standard procedure on the military ship that this once was), the following adjustments are being instituted on Longshot:

Pablo has agreed to 'camp out' in the dorsal gun turret. He's spent years living in a small space during his military career, so he's a bit uncomfortable with all that space in a stateroom.

Valeska, as the resident scientist, is being set up in the geology lab down on Deck 3. That suits her just fine, not because she's unsocial, but she just wants to spend more time dealing with the lab. When she gets focused on something, she's apt to just nap there anyway.

Evelyn, who really is unsociable though not really by choice, is being assigned to the Engineering Compartment. According to her, she sleeps on the engines anyway. She's almost as uncomfortable in a stateroom as Pablo, just for a different reason.

As the only 'qualified' drone operator, Horatio is being billeted in the Remote Ops control room. This is mostly because there isn't much call for the mining drones or the repair drones under normal ship operations.

Horatio and Valeska will have to share use of the common Fresher on Deck 3.


These can be temporary arrangements if anyone is unhappy with them. This does not mean that you are confined to quarters! Everyone still eats in the mess hall and can use the Rec Room.

Most of you will be expected to pull duty on the bridge during some of the off-shifts.
Marcus Fallin
player, 12 posts
Sun 9 Jun 2019
at 00:38
  • msg #368

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"There appears to be some confusion. I am a captain by rank. My skills lie in keeping the ship running and in getting it up and running again during times of emergency. I have no desire to command the ship, nor do I have sufficient skills in making trade deals," Marcus replies confused as to why the speaker would consider him wanting to captain the ship, and where the military came into it at all.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 02:28, Sun 09 June 2019.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 511 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sun 9 Jun 2019
at 02:27
  • msg #369

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Marcus Fallin (msg # 368):

COMM START>>> "Oh...Oh!  Okay, sorry about that." says the voice on the intercom, while someone laughing in the background can be heard, "When you made a point of introducing yourself as Captain--and since there is only one Captain on a ship this size--we, that is, I, thought you might be here to take on that position.  Then, when you said you were looking to fill any open position, I sort of assumed you were hanging on to a military rank.  Again, sorry."
     "Um, look, this is kind of embarrassing, but apparently somebody over on the Port is playing some kind of a joke on us--yes, we were--are--I'm not really sure--looking to fill a couple of crew positions, but some joker went and put up over a dozen recruiting ads on the Net for all kinds of positions.  So, depending on just what Crew position you're looking to fill, Cap--uh, I mean, Citizen, we may not, actually, have something for you."
     "Just what was it you were hoping to do, aboard the Longshot, sir?" <<<COMM ENDS
Marcus Fallin
player, 13 posts
Sun 9 Jun 2019
at 02:34
  • msg #370

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

COMM START>>> The title Captain is an honorific left over from my corporate days. I still retain the title, even though I do not captain a ship. I am trained for any position on a ship from any position on the bridge crew, to brokering deals, to internal security, to engines. My primary passion has always been keeping the engines running at their optimum peak, as well as being able to get a damaged engine up and running, in case of damage caused by a raider.<<<COMM ENDS
Kheaiftouaw
player, 641 posts
Aslan outcast
Mon 10 Jun 2019
at 21:55
  • msg #371

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Sylvester Jinx (msg # 366):

Having lost interest in Sylverster's work once he finished the startup sequence and started to translate all the labels, a work anyone could do with a half decent translation software, Khea thinks for a bit if there is any other menial task she could assign. After all she enjoyed having again an underling to command around.

"That is all for now. There will be plenty of work one we launch.
I expect you to familiarize yourself with the ships system in the meantime, especially the life support. With that many people we put a lot of strain on it"
Reese Hardsimm
player, 25 posts
Medic, Hacker, Thief
Field Agent 2nd Class
Tue 11 Jun 2019
at 00:50
  • msg #372

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Before Vonon can reply to Marcus he notices a loud buzzing coming from the ships communications station on the bridge...
Sylvester Jinx
player, 117 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Tue 11 Jun 2019
at 17:59
  • msg #373

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester goes over the Life Support side of Engineering seeing to it that everything is operating as it should.

13:58, Today: Sylvester Jinx rolled 5 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 1,3. engnrng check.
Inderpal Kumar
player, 72 posts
Tharillian
Ex-Scout
Wed 12 Jun 2019
at 10:41
  • msg #374

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Inderpal made her way off the ship and returned to her hotel room, where she changed into a pair of silk pyjamas and packed up as much as she could, only leaving what she would need for the night.

She then sent a message to Sharik.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 120 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Thu 13 Jun 2019
at 13:39
  • msg #375

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

After going over life support, Slyvester goes over the Electronics and then the Power Plant to make sure they were at 100%.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 642 posts
Aslan outcast
Thu 13 Jun 2019
at 22:56
  • msg #376

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Pretty tired by now Khea forces herself to stay in the engine room and to watch Sylvester. Not the quality of his work, she will have to check that tomorrow, but just so that he doesn't do something he is not supposed to do. And all the time she is cursing herself of giving him those tasks this late.
And while a general doubt about security with so many new people they barely know anything about on the ship crosses her mind, with being so tired her Aslan upbringing kicks in and she dismisses this as a male thing for Vonon to worry about.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 121 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Fri 14 Jun 2019
at 11:25
  • msg #377

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Finally satisfied everything is in perfect order, Sylvester sits down to a cup of coffee to relax.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 512 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sat 15 Jun 2019
at 04:36
  • msg #378

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Reese Hardsimm:
Before Vonon can reply to Marcus he notices a loud buzzing coming from the ships communications station on the bridge...


     Just about ready to bite holes in hull-steel, Vonon makes a quick decision--Delegate!

     Vonon again opens the intercom channel down to the outer airlock,

COMM START>>> "Okay, then Captain....Captain.  You just stay right there, I'm sending someone to let you in.  You can deal with our Chief Engineer.  I hope you're not allergic to cats.  Bridge, out." <<< COMM ENDS

*CLIK*

     Vonon switches intercom channels, opening the channel down to Engineering,

COMM STARTS >>> "Khea!  There is another frelling Engineer at the airlock, and once again I am leaving his fate up to you.  Go let him in and interview him ... or eat him ... or toss him back out onto the dock ... I don't care.  But if you want to keep him, let me know.  Vonon, out." <<< COMM ENDS

*CLIK*

     Vonon steps over to the Comm Station ... looks it over ... and opens the in-coming call.

COMM STARTS >>> "You have finally reached the Independent Armed Freighter Longshot--you have my sympathies.  All of the Crew are presently busy with severe attacks of Angst, and are tied up in their quarters--literally.  You are speaking to the Captain, and right now I really, really, don't give a frack!  So you've five seconds to justify your existence within the Universe, before I hang up on you--go!" <<< COMM ENDS
Reese Hardsimm
player, 28 posts
Medic, Hacker, Thief
Field Agent 2nd Class
Sat 15 Jun 2019
at 14:10
  • msg #379

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Vonon Ronkunu:
COMM STARTS >>> "You have finally reached the Independent Armed Freighter Longshot--you have my sympathies.  All of the Crew are presently busy with severe attacks of Angst, and are tied up in their quarters--literally.  You are speaking to the Captain, and right now I really, really, don't give a frack!  So you've five seconds to justify your existence within the Universe, before I hang up on you--go!" <<< COMM ENDS


Reese answers immediately. "Greetings. Your Auto-doc would recommend administering 20mg of Temazepam to all of your crew, which would probably be okay were you operating in Jump Space today. However, as a trained and experienced Medic, I would instead administer 25-50mg of Hydroxyzine Pamoate depending on body weight, so that their anxiety would be alleviated and they would still be functional should the ship need to vacate the station anytime in the next 24 hours."

Reese pauses for half a beat before saying "Reese Hardsimm, at your service. Permission to come aboard, Captain?"

OOC: rolled 5 + 3 (+4Medic +2Int) = 14 to diagnose.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:16, Sat 15 June 2019.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 515 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sun 16 Jun 2019
at 05:34
  • msg #380

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Reese Hardsimm (msg # 379):

     The stated five seconds pass, and though the comm-signal is silent, it remains open.  Finally, after several more seconds than indicated, the 'Captain' finds his voice,

COMM STARTS >>>  "Oh.  Um...you...so, you're a Med Tech, then...?"  <<< COMM ENDS
Reese Hardsimm
player, 30 posts
Medic, Hacker, Thief
Field Agent 2nd Class
Sun 16 Jun 2019
at 12:01
  • msg #381

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Among other things, Yes Sir. I've served as Ship's Doctor on three ships. My primary career before that however was as a Field Agent, 2nd Class." Reese responds, knowing the smile on his face will alter the tone of his voice for a positive reaction despite the call being audio only.

Opening his computer and holding it on his right forearm he quickly brings up his resume and mails it to the Longshot's station address. "I'm sending you my resume now. Also attaching a list of non-narcotic pharmaceuticals that I could procure in the Station Pharmacy that are far better suited for use by an active ship's crew than those commonly stocked and prescribed by the typical Auto-Doc."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 517 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Mon 17 Jun 2019
at 02:26
  • msg #382

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Reese Hardsimm (msg # 381):

COMM START >>> "Unless it's on the Space Patrol Controlled Substances list, I don't know squat about pharmaceuticals.  But one of the Crew does, so I'll ask her.  Okay, Citizen, you've earned yourself an actual interview.  Come back tomorrow morning, sometime after start of business hours, and we'll look over your papers and certifications."

     "But, since we just lost our Doctor and nobody else with any real medical skill has come forward, I feel pretty confident saying you've probably got the job...even though I'm a little fuzzy about having a bunk for you.  You might want to invest in a hammock."

     "Alright, then, see you in the morning--Doc!  And if anyone but me gives you any backtalk, you tell them to call Captain Ronkunu.  Goodnight, Citizen Hardsimm." *CLIK* <<< COMM END
Reese Hardsimm
player, 32 posts
Medic, Hacker, Thief
Field Agent 2nd Class
Mon 17 Jun 2019
at 16:32
  • msg #383

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Vonon Ronkunu:
"Alright, then, see you in the morning--Doc!  And if anyone but me gives you any backtalk, you tell them to call Captain Ronkunu.  Goodnight, Citizen Hardsimm." *CLIK* <<< COMM END


"Excellent Captain Ronkunu, I will see you in the morning. Hardsimm out." Reese taps his comdot and returns to the tiny room he's been renting.

Once there he brings up the catalog for the Station Supply Market on his computer and looks for likely basics to take on board. Eyeing a habitat module he considers calling to ask if there's cargo space for him to set that up, but decides to wait until after he's got the job. Pharmaceuticals are next on his shopping list. After a couple of hours Reese decides to get some sleep before packing up and heading back to the ship in the morning.

An early riser, Reese decides 'in the morning' probably didn't mean 05:00, so he stops at the Supply Market to put in an order before heading over to the LongShot.

Arriving at precisely 07:00, Reese takes the liberty of hopping up the tube to the boarding ramp and using the ships comm to announce himself.

"Reese Hardsimm to see Captain Ronkunu." he says confidently into the comm and waits for a response.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 127 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Mon 17 Jun 2019
at 16:38
  • msg #384

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester was up early drinking a cup of coffee in the galley when the comm announces Reese for the captain. He looked around for Vonon for a moment and then minded his own business when he didn't see him, too irritable for his liking. If it sounded again, he would look for the captain.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 643 posts
Aslan outcast
Mon 17 Jun 2019
at 22:32
  • msg #385

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Another Engineer?" Khea tried to ask Vonon but he already cut the connection.
Well, at least she can have some fun.
Selecting the channel displayed on the screen, Khea roars he best Aslan greeting into the comm
"[Aslan]si'fehyrHeOaOkhlhtw (What do you want?)"
Marcus Fallin
player, 15 posts
Tue 18 Jun 2019
at 00:10
  • msg #386

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Marcus is startled by the suddenness of Khea's greeting and instinctively answers back in accented Aslani, telling her, "I came inquiring about an engineering position. The captain said he would have someone, which I presume is you, get back to me."
StarMaster
GM, 933 posts
Tue 18 Jun 2019
at 06:55
  • msg #387

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Walter Zeller:
As Veronika started to talk, he cocked up an eyebrow in thought. "Well now, since you are able to diagnose yourself, what repairs would you need? Please list them by priority, and what cost and skills are needed to complete the repairs. Also, having not meet one of your type, would you be able to survive in space or would you require a vacc suit?" he asked.



"I can run diagnostics on my... my... my physical form but only limited ones on my core processing," Veronika answers Walter. "The speech impediment appears to be... be... be a fracture in the vocalizer crystal. Replacing the c...c...crystal requires a Tech 3 roboticist and standard rate of pay is Cr5000 per hour. Standard time increment for effecting such a repair is 2 hours."

"However, replacing the... the... the vocalizer unit itself only requires a Tech 2, pay rate is Cr2000 per... per... per hour, and it would take only 15 minutes, though you would be charged for the full hour. I would no longer have the same voice."

"Programming gli...gli...glitches require a Tech 3 and could take up to 10 hours to find and repair or replace...ace...ace the programming module."

"I have not been pro...pro...programmed with advanced computer skills so I cannot determine where the problem lies. There does... does... does appear to be a short circuit in the main processor, as I... I... I randomly switch from one assigned task to another."

"As for... for... for surviving in space, this unit was not designed or constructed for such a con...con...condition. My core would be preserved, but my... my... my skin and sensory units would free...free...freeze and need to be replaced."
Walter Zeller
player, 553 posts
Merchant/Noble
Tue 18 Jun 2019
at 10:10
  • msg #388

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Bing" went the notification on his computer. "Excuse me a moment" Walter said as he glanced over the message. "I have been informed to inquire about getting some robots for the galley and housekeeping use. Would you have 4 of them by any chance?" he asked, not expecting to find anything like that since they are not used for mining.

Sir Walter listened to the tasks needed for fixing the fembot. "Hum, the fembot is not what I am looking for and we do not have someone with those skills. I will have to check in to Cassandra to see if it is still here at a later date." he said.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 129 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Thu 20 Jun 2019
at 14:32
  • msg #389

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester looked at the time on his com piece on his forearm. He wondered when they'd shove off of this world, a day, maybe two. Walter was still looking for bots and crew was still being interviewed and settled in. It was going to be very entertaining.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:33, Thu 20 June 2019.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 644 posts
Aslan outcast
Thu 20 Jun 2019
at 18:03
  • msg #390

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"So then, when you want to be the engineer on the ship then you have to give me a reason why I should replace our current one."

Lifting her finger from the com button she grinned when a thought crossed her mind and she reactivated the com.

"Or are you here to duel him for his position?"
Marcus Fallin
player, 16 posts
Thu 20 Jun 2019
at 20:43
  • msg #391

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"It is always helpful to have a second engineer so you can have someone available all the time, plus in times of crisis or emergencies, where the extra talent is extremely useful."

"I would prefer not to duel for it, as that would benefit no one. While I've heard good things about this ship, if my skills are not needed here, then I will have to look elsewhere."
Kheaiftouaw
player, 645 posts
Aslan outcast
Fri 21 Jun 2019
at 23:55
  • msg #392

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Disappointed Khea answers to the comm system "And what talent do you think you have"?
Marcus Fallin
player, 17 posts
Sat 22 Jun 2019
at 00:42
  • msg #393

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"I have many skills, but my expertise on power plants and maneuver drives is documented in several books and articles I have written. I am one of the best at getting things running again after critical failures, or if it should occur, combat damage. I can fill in on many other stations on a ship, particularly bridge positions, if one of the crew should fall ill or be injured, but my primary love is keeping the engines purring."
Sylvester Jinx
player, 130 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Sat 22 Jun 2019
at 15:36
  • msg #394

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester went to look for Khea to see if there was anything she wanted him to do this fine morning. He started looking for her in the engine rooms.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:32, Sun 23 June 2019.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 369 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Sun 23 Jun 2019
at 23:15
  • msg #395

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik watched the interaction between Sir Walter and the fembot, Veronika (who did indeed appear to be true to her image/form), a light smile played upon her face.  The diminutive operative-turned-dilettante couldn’t help herself when Zeller switched topic, shelving the matter of the whether or not to purchase the ex-pleasure bot.  She leaned in conspiratorially once his back was turned and noted to Veronika, “Don’t worry, hon.  Sir Walter is just warming up to you.”. She named dropped for him; so, that Veronika might remember it in the future.  Or depending on her chip malfunction, she might remember nothing.

Shar found herself rooting for Veronika on some level.  At least, there was one endearing trait about her; she was quirky, like the rest of the crew of the Longshot, and would probably fit right in.  And if Walter was looking for status, well, Veronika would be a definite statement.

She’d gotten Vonon’s various texts as well, and simply pointed to the area that was (at least) labeled for work and domestic drones.  The basics were there, but the selection looked scarce.  Perhaps they were popular.  Or very unpopular.  Anyways, at least techlevel here was more inline with the request.  In her experience, servitors were just a touch out of range - both culturally and technically - on C-belt.  “We are going to need at least .... four more of each...” she mused, as she considered what Vonon’s text had said.

The auburn-haired pilot sent a simple text blast back to Indy, ++ ETD: 72 hours.  Hope you didn’t check out of TAS hostel yet ...++. Sharik rarely checked out early.  While she like the accommodations on the Longshot, there was generally no reason to go running back to them.  Plus, there was still some shopping to do.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:15, Sun 23 June 2019.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 133 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Mon 24 Jun 2019
at 12:13
  • msg #396

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester explored the ship, getting the layout in his head and ready for take off in a few days. He wanted to be totally acclimated by the end of the day if he could, but would wait for some stuff. The galley was easy as were the location of it in relationship to his room.

The next thing was to start to get to know the rest of the crew, who had a sense of humor, and who didn't was the interesting part. Vonon was funny. the ladies were interesting. Perhaps an affair of the heart would be promising, maybe not too. He heard there was yet another engineer signed on as well, a Marcus Fallin. God it had a big crew, he was used to a skeleton crew bare minimum, that would mean more training time though to improve himself.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 646 posts
Aslan outcast
Mon 24 Jun 2019
at 20:10
  • msg #397

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"Purring? Is that intended as an insult? Do you know how we Aslan deal with insults?"

"Here is what we will do. You will wire some of the articles you have written and we will continue the interview tomorrow."

Khea cuts the connection, hoping that faking an insult will buy her some time.

She switches to the internal communication. "Sylvester, there will be some articles about drives and power plant operations arriving soon. Look over them and see if the author knows his stuff. The author will come back tomorrow so you can interview him and give me your opinion."

While walking to her cabin she pulls out her personal communicator and writes a text to Vonon as her probably is asleep already.

"Vonon, I got an idea. With two other engineers I could leave the engine room to them and resume my position as shipmaster. That means managing salaries and other organizational matters to keep the captain free to make decisions about the ship.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:30, Tue 25 June 2019.
StarMaster
GM, 936 posts
Mon 24 Jun 2019
at 20:34
  • msg #398

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"You want mining droids or robots, I got those!" Marta replies, getting a bit annoyed at the Baron's insistence on wanting something that isn't on Rockport.

"What you want are luxuries... what's generally considered Class C luxuries. You know what a Class A luxury is? WATER!"

"If you don't want Veronika, then I'm afraid I can't help you. Hell, I don't think there's a service droid on the entire station! Anyone that can afford a luxury robot probably has enough money to leave this place."

"Anything else?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:54, Tue 25 June 2019.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 523 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Tue 25 Jun 2019
at 01:51
  • msg #399

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to StarMaster (msg # 398):

OOC: Psssssssst!  Uh, StarMaster...we're not at Outpost anymore...we left there and went to Rockport, in Cassandra's Belt...in a completely different star system than Outpost...
Walter Zeller
player, 555 posts
Merchant/Noble
Tue 25 Jun 2019
at 02:23
  • msg #400

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sir Walter shook his head. "Sorry, No thanks." he said as he made his way out. "Something to add to my list of things to acquire for the ship. looks like we will have to get with the Captain and see about a more suitable location to get the robots that we need. Was there any other place you would like to check out Ms. Kaagira?" he asked.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 524 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Tue 25 Jun 2019
at 03:13
  • msg #401

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

[ABOARD THE LONGSHOT, DOCKED AT ROCKPORT]

     After having handed that Captain...Captain...

     ~~What was his name, again?...Magus?...No! Marcus! Marcus Falling!...No, no, no, his last name was softer than that...Fallen.  Yeah, that was it...Captain Marcus Fallen...~~

     After having handed Captain Fallen off to Khea to deal with, and made an appointment for tomorrow morning to look into this possible Ship's Doctor--Vonon realized that all his recent stressing over the Crew had wiped him out.  Time for a shot of rum, then off to bed.

     When he woke the next morning, after he'd cleaned up and dressed, he found there was a text message from Khea waiting for him on his personal comm-unit.

COMM STARTS >>>
Kheaiftouaw:
"Vonon, I got an idea. With two other engineers I could leave the engine room to them and resume my position as shipmaster. That means managing salaries and other organizational matters to keep the captain free to make decisions about the ship."

<<< COMM ENDS

     Frowning in thought, Vonon responds with his own text--typing rapidly with both thumbs.
COMM STARTS >>>
     "Those duties sound like what the Imperial Spacers Guild attribute to the job of Steward.  Maintaining Ship Accounts, Payroll and Crew Benefits, Ship Supplies, Passenger Care--that kind of thing.  Is that what you're talking about?  I was going to assign Evelyn as Ship's Steward, under Sir Walter's supervision--but if these are the duties you Aslan call Shipmaster duties, then you could be Steward, with Evelyn as your assistant.  If it's what you want to do."
<<< COM ENDS

     Vonon hits send, then walks out of The Captain's Cabin, heading across the companionway to the Mess Hall for a cup of Kaff.

     Today Vonon is dressed in hunter green velour trousers, tucked into the space-rated, black thigh-boots from his old Patrol uniform.  A garishly bright-yellow, loose-fitting, wide-collared cotton shirt does little to distract from the clash between Vonon's natural auburn-colored fur, and the eye-sore of a neon-green silk ascot he has twisted around his neck.

     With a large cup of the caffeinated Vilani beverage in hand--made to his taste, with a dollop of light molasses and just a little cream--Vonon walks onto the Bridge just in time to hear a door announcement from the Comm Station.

COM STARTS >>>  "Reese Hardsimm to see Captain Ronkunu."  <<< COMM ENDS came from the speaker, as a video monitor off to the side of the Main Bridge Monitor popped up a picture of a human male standing down at the main airlock.

     ~~How late did I sleep?~~ Vonon thought, taking a sip of his Kaff, as his eyes wandered to the chrono...

     ...almost causing him to spit out the Kaff all over the Comm Station.

     ~~Seventh Hour?!  Most Banks are still closed!~~ Vonon thought in indignation, as he gulped down the sip of kaff he'd almost sprayed over the Bridge, and opened the intercom circuit.

COMM STARTS >>>  "Although it would be demeaning for a sophont of my standing to do so--I am very tempted, right now, to just growl at you.  You are aware of the earliness of the hour?"  <<< COMM ENDS
Reese Hardsimm
player, 38 posts
Medic, Hacker, Thief
Field Agent 2nd Class
Tue 25 Jun 2019
at 11:15
  • msg #402

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Vonon Ronkunu:
COMM STARTS >>>  "Although it would be demeaning for a sophont of my standing to do so--I am very tempted, right now, to just growl at you.  You are aware of the earliness of the hour?"  <<< COMM ENDS


Reese grins slightly as he answers "Apologies Captain, I've grown fond of the peace in the early hours. Permission to come aboard?"

~As Vargr go, this Vonon seems pretty straightforward; if that holds true we should get along just fine.~ Reese thinks as he awaits a response.
Marcus Fallin
player, 20 posts
Tue 25 Jun 2019
at 11:56
  • msg #403

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

As promised, Marcus sends her some of the articles, and titles of books he's written. They are a mix of both highly technical articles, pertaining to such topics as the intricacies of dealing with power plants and keeping them fine-tuned, as well as more layman's articles explaining how things work in an easier to understand, but not as detailed, format.

Once they are sent, Marcus can do nothing but wait, hoping he did not unintentionally insult the Aslan by his metaphor.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 135 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Tue 25 Jun 2019
at 16:30
  • msg #404

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Not finding Khea, Sylvester goes to the engine room and begins doing more diagnostics on the Power Plant systems and polishing the chrome and cleaning up the consoles. Making everything clean enough to eat off of!
This message was last edited by the player at 17:43, Tue 25 June 2019.
Pablo Esteban Ryzov
player, 285 posts
End 8, Str 6, Dex 9
Gun for hire
Tue 25 Jun 2019
at 18:02
  • msg #405

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

With the sudden influx of new personnel, Vonon had seen fit to reassign staterooms... because, gods forbid, anyone might have to double up in a stateroom. For that matter, he'd always felt that was a bit of a misnomer anyway. These were more like closets!

Even so, the spaciousness made him a bit uncomfortable. He was so used to spending his time in small spaces that the stateroom seemed like a waste of space to him.

So, he moved his stuff--what little there was of it--to the turret.

Now THAT was more like it!

He put a few souvenirs up on the limited wall space, one or two on the weapon housings, tossed his bedroll into the gunner's seat, and then spent a couple hours installing a vidscreen. Sure, he could have watched vids on the gunner's HUD... but it just wasn't the same. The next couple of hours were spent customizing a musical playlist. Several, actually. One specific for battle, one for sims, one for relaxing, one for... well, he tended to call it 'elevator music'... it was just background noise when there was something else he wanted to be doing.

Then he went and found Evelyn. So far, he seemed to be the only friend she'd made on the crew. Hell, he wasn't even sure all the rest of the crew knew she was on the ship. Vonon had reassigned her quarters, too... not that she'd been sleeping in the one she'd been assigned.

As usual, he found her in Engineering... just not where anyone else would be. A minimal bedroll curled up in an obscure corner.

"Yo, Evelyn! I'm here to help you move into your new sleeping quarters," he informed her... with a big grin.

He picked up her bedroll, turned around to face the other wall, and set it back down.

"It's now official. You can use Engineering as your official quarters! You don't have to pretend to hide here in a corner, out of the way."

"We can bring a real cot in or we can string up a hammock if that's what you'd prefer."

"Yes, I know, you really hide to keep out of sight of the others. Well, guess what? You can't do that any more. We've got five or six new people on the ship now. And two of them are Engineers. So, they'll be down here all the time. Maybe not at the same time, but in shifts."

He waited then to see what she had to say... and do.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 137 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Tue 25 Jun 2019
at 18:30
  • msg #406

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Kheaiftouaw:
"Sylvester, there will be some articles about drives and power plant operations arriving soon. Look over them and see if the author knows his stuff. The author will come back tomorrow so you can interview him and give me your opinion."



Sylvester reads the articles and book to see if they are relevant. He finds some useful stuff, mostly theory and such when it came to the first part. Some of the technical stuff was spot on and very instructive too.

He reported his findings to Khea in the morning.
StarMaster
GM, 938 posts
Tue 25 Jun 2019
at 19:04
  • msg #407

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

((OOC: Anyone that wants to continue shopping or role-playing on Rockport, go ahead and continue in this thread.))


About an hour before liftoff, a delivery is made to the ship for Walter.

The note that's delivered reads as follows:

TO WALTER ZELLER
Consider this small gift as just a thank you for taking such great care
of my former ship. And, yes, I'm a bit nostalgic as well as sentimental.
V now has Law-2, Medical-3, Steward-2 and Gun Combat-1.
Unfortunately, I have neither the time nor skill to fix her.
Hope she works out for you.
Sincerely yours, Lucky Seven

This message was last edited by the GM at 21:03, Tue 25 June 2019.
Walter Zeller
player, 556 posts
Merchant/Noble
Tue 25 Jun 2019
at 23:37
  • msg #408

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

TO WALTER ZELLER
Consider this small gift as just a thank you for taking such great care
of my former ship. And, yes, I'm a bit nostalgic as well as sentimental.
V now has Law-2, Medical-3, Steward-2 and Gun Combat-1.
Unfortunately, I have neither the time nor skill to fix her.
Hope she works out for you.
Sincerely yours, Lucky Seven

Walter took the note and flipped it on the back side to see if there was any more after reading it for the third time. Doing his best to not start laughing, after a few seconds he gave up and roared in laughter.

"Well Veronica, welcome aboard. Do you have any baggage to load? We will get you set up in the galley to deal with meals and I will consult you for your legal knowledge as needed. Lets get a vac suit for you just to be on the safe side." he said as he made a quick order under the ships account so it would be delivered before they took off.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 525 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Thu 27 Jun 2019
at 04:05
  • msg #409

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

[IAF LONGSHOT, ROCKPORT DOCK]

COMM STARTS >>>
Reese Hardsimm:
"Apologies Captain, I've grown fond of the peace in the early hours. Permission to come aboard?"

<<< COMM ENDS

     Vonon simply snorts at the response, before opening the intercom circuit,

COMM STARTS >>>  "Alright, Citizen Hardsimm, the dock-side airlock is now open.  Pass through it, then through the ship's outer airlock door.  After that you'll be in free-fall for a short distance, as you come up the ramp into the ship.  Gravity is back once you pass through the inner airlock door.  Head aft, through the EVA prep area, then continue straight aft through the main cargo hold until you reach a manual hatch in the middle of the hold's rear bulkhead.  Pass through that hatch into the Deck Two Main Companionway--go to the end of the companionway to another manual hatch--go through that hatch--continue aft down the companionway to the first manual hatch on your left.  That'll be the ship's starboard side.  That's the Main--and only--Ship's Lift, and it'll be waiting for you."

     "And before you ask--yes, I said that that is a manual hatch into the Lift.  This is a very old ship that has been re-designed a few times--it's got a few quirks."

     "Take the lift up to Deck One and then come Forward--that's go to your right, out of the lift--come Forward until you reach the Bridge.  You can't miss it--the Bridge is the only room on this entire vessel that cannot be secured in an emergency.  Just another one of those quirks I mentioned."

     "I'll be here waiting for you.  Oh, and you'll be under video observation the whole time, but we have no audio until you enter the lift.  Captain, out."  <<< COMM ENDS

     Vonon cuts the intercom circuit--he'd never even opened the video circuit--before Hardsimm can answer.  He ponders for just a second, then sets his kaff mug down on mug-holder on the commanders station and quickly returns to the nearby Captain's Cabin.

     Once back in the Captain's Cabin, Vonon grabs his Service 10mm and holster, attaches them to his belt at the right hip and straps it down on his right thigh, then hurries back to the Bridge to await Hardsimm's arrival.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:07, Thu 27 June 2019.
Veronika
NPC, 1 post
Fembot-3000
Steward, Legal, Medic
Thu 27 Jun 2019
at 07:01
  • msg #410

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

((OOC: She still has the stutter, but it's a pain in the ass to write it and makes it hard to read...))


"No, sir, I have no luggage," Veronika replies to Walter. "My wardrobe and personal possessions consist of only what I am wearing."

"As soon as the Steward program was downloaded into my positronic matrix, I accessed the archival records to get the schematic deckplans of the ship. Barring any changes since the day of its service as a system defense boat and jump shuttle, I believe I can find the galley without any assistance."

"However, I am unsure of whether I should defer to you or to Captain Vonon in regards to the menu for meals."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:04, Fri 28 June 2019.
Reese Hardsimm
player, 41 posts
Medic, Hacker, Thief
Field Agent 2nd Class
Thu 27 Jun 2019
at 11:06
  • msg #411

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Vonon Ronkunu (msg # 409):

Reese's brow raises at the description of the interior, but with a sideways nod he follows the directions to enter the ship.

As he works the manual door on the lift he's reminded of one of the pirate vessels he served on, cobbled together from spare parts in the hull of an old 400dt Subsidized Merchant.

As he enters the bridge Reese eyes the corner of the wall/hallway, considering what it would take to install a decent secure door..

"Captain Ronkunu, Reese Hardsimm." He says as he proffers his hand. "I see the Longshot has had a substantial amount of remodeling done. If I may ask, how big is the crew?" Reese wonders how busy he's likely to be given the expanded size of the crew deck.
Walter Zeller
player, 559 posts
Merchant/Noble
Thu 27 Jun 2019
at 13:17
  • msg #412

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

"When it comes to ship matters like the galley, defer to Captain Vonon unless he appoints an executive officer. When it comes to business matters, I will be the one to speak to." Sir Walter said. "You might take a look in the galley first, the prior cook might have left notes on crew members tastes. My entry should say No chill mac, ever!, for the new crew you might want to speak to them, but you can't go wrong with stocking up on plenty of raw meat and coffee. Here is the key to the Luxuries." he said as he handed it over.

"If there are any conflict in your orders, speak to me so they can be addressed. Also, on matters concerning Longshot Enterprises, no data is to be released to anyone other than members of the board of directors, without my permission. On matters concerning the Longshot "Company", data can be released to authorized crew members. Here, let me transmit the files to you." Sir Walter said as he copied the company and Metacoporation files from his computer to Veronika. "Please look them over to make sure that they are correct. I want Longshot Enterprises to have the highest reputation and most loyal employees in the galaxy."
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 526 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Fri 28 Jun 2019
at 06:03
  • msg #413

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Reese Hardsimm (msg # 411):

     "Well, Citizen Hardsimm," Vonon says, turning the seat of the Commander's Station around to face Reese, "when we launch in a day-or-so, the Crew Complement should be fifteen--but a couple of those are still being decided on--so let's say anywhere from twelve to fifteen."

     "But, let's start now with any e-docs you have that'll say you're currently Med Tech qualified.  After that, I'll walk you down to the Med Bay and show you around.  It's not much, but we're pretty proud of what we do have."
Reese Hardsimm
player, 42 posts
Medic, Hacker, Thief
Field Agent 2nd Class
Fri 28 Jun 2019
at 22:26
  • msg #414

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Vonon Ronkunu:
     "But, let's start now with any e-docs you have that'll say you're currently Med Tech qualified.  After that, I'll walk you down to the Med Bay and show you around.  It's not much, but we're pretty proud of what we do have."


"I took the liberty of sending my credentials to the ships address this morning, Captain." Reese replies. "Full disclosure, two of the three ships listed are currently on the auction block after being confiscated for piracy. I was an undercover investigator for Ildrissar Security. But the assignment did test and hone my medic skills."

Reese then nods towards the Captain's sidearm and asks "What's the ships policy on carrying? I have a sidearm of my own in storage on the station. Should you decide to take me on I believe I'll need a waiver from you to collect it. As a former Agent I voluntarily surrendered it to Station Security upon arrival."
Kheaiftouaw
player, 648 posts
Aslan outcast
Sat 29 Jun 2019
at 00:08
  • msg #415

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

After finally having a good 12 hour sleep Khea was awakened by the the loading of cargo for their travel to Invermory.
Still groggy from oversleeping, and the multitudes of humaniti drink samples she had, she quickly slips into her uniform and stumbles towards the engineering.

On her way she checks her comm unit and sees Vonons reply.

Vonon Ronkunu:
     "Those duties sound like what the Imperial Spacers Guild attribute to the job of Steward.  Maintaining Ship Accounts, Payroll and Crew Benefits, Ship Supplies, Passenger Care--that kind of thing.  Is that what you're talking about?  I was going to assign Evelyn as Ship's Steward, under Sir Walter's supervision--but if these are the duties you Aslan call Shipmaster duties, then you could be Steward, with Evelyn as your assistant.  If it's what you want to do."


Still not fully awake she writes back
>>What? Steward? I don't want to entertain guests and cook. I mean, I could do that, but don't we have more important things to worry about? Or have you taken on a high passage guest who demands that someone cooks for him? Do we even have enough room for a passenger? Why would you let your cook handle the ships finances anyway?<<

When entering the engine room she remembers that there still was something missing she had to do.

Another comm to Vonon
>>And did you hire this other book writing engineer while I was sleeping?<<
This message was last edited by the player at 00:16, Sat 29 June 2019.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 527 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sat 29 Jun 2019
at 07:43
  • msg #416

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Kheaiftouaw (msg # 415):

     Having received Khea's texts while he was waiting for Reese to make his way through the ship and up to he Bridge, Vonon sends back,

COM START >>> "No, we have no passengers!  And what I said was that the job that Imperials call "Steward" does all those things you mentioned plus takes care of passengers, yes.  As I hope to very rarely take on passengers, if ever, if you want to do this, then just have Evelyn deal with the passengers...and the cooking...and the housekeeping...and the laundry."

     "And NO I did NOT hire that Engineer--I TOLD YOU TO MAKE THAT CALL!  Although, I think I transferred everyone but that Daryen--Sylvester?--OUT of engineering, before I realized what I'd done.  So you might want to hire this guy, anyway.  I think he said he was ex-Merchant Marine.  He should be okay." <<< COM ENDS
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 528 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Sat 29 Jun 2019
at 08:12
  • msg #417

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Reese Hardsimm (msg # 414):

     Vonon's eyes narrow a bit at Reese's mention of Ildrissar Security, but nothing else.

     "I was once a member of the local Space Patrol, here in Cassandra's Belt." Vonon says in response to the question about carrying weapons, "If you'd left the sidearm locked in your gear, in your hotel, you'd probably have been fine.  Most of the hotels and hostels on Rockport have a weapon vault for guest weapons.  Rockport mainly services the Asteroid Miners and Rockhoppers of the Belt, and a lot of them go armed, out there.  But...better safe than sorry.  We don't..."

     Vonon stops himself with a grimace that actually seems to be painful.

     "The local Space Patrol..." Vonon continues, pronouncing each word with care, "don't take a kind view towards weapon violations."

     After a deep breath, he continues,

     "As for carrying aboard ship--I'm carrying now, as a precaution.  You are still an unknown--although I believe that will be changing.  Otherwise, if you want to wear your sidearm, go ahead.  Use it against another member of the Crew--except in self-defense--and I'll throw the sidearm out an airlock, then throw you out after it--without a suit."

     "While I appreciate the level of tactical readiness that an armed crew represents, just be aware that if anyone aboard this ship starts shooting the place up, the rest of us will not wait for your diagnosis that the shooter is crazy-sick, then try to talk them down--somebody starts shooting the place up, the rest of us will put them down, fast and hard."

     "Is that understood, and is that acceptable to you?"
Reese Hardsimm
player, 43 posts
Medic, Hacker, Thief
Field Agent 2nd Class
Sat 29 Jun 2019
at 11:57
  • msg #418

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Vonon Ronkunu (msg # 417):

Reese notes Vonon's slight tension at the mention of Ildrissar Security (rolled 2 + 3 +(Investigate 1) + (Int 2) = 8) ~expected that~ he thinks.

After Vonon's slip back into referring to himself as Local Space Patrol and then his annoyance at having done so he thinks ~Veteran through and through, I can respect that.~

Ildrissar Security has a well earned bad reputation, which is no small part of why Reese chose to spend time as a criminal rather than stay in that job. As Vonon lays out ships policy part of Reese thinks back to his first cycle in the underworld on his own and how when he uncovered a young Agent had infiltrated the organization he was reluctant to reveal to her his background as I.S.; a good Agent was likely to respect him more as a criminal than as I.S..

When Vonon has finished Reese smiles and nods, "Certainly, I would expect nothing less." Referring back to his sidearm storage, "I was aware I could have just stowed the weapon, but given my background I find it more prudent to announce myself and my capabilities to local security whenever I'm on an extended stay; It reduces the likelihood of my name being on top of the suspicious persons list in any investigation over a shooting."
Sylvester Jinx
player, 142 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Sat 29 Jun 2019
at 15:29
  • msg #419

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Kheaiftouaw:
Another comm to Vonon
>>And did you hire this other book writing engineer while I was sleeping?<<


OOC reply 406 from Sylvester to Khea.
Kheaiftouaw
player, 649 posts
Aslan outcast
Sun 30 Jun 2019
at 22:22
  • msg #420

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Stumbling into the engine room while growling at anyone she meets on the way Khea reads through Vonons reply and through all the other messages that piled on during her sleep.
Why can't humanity have a normal 12 hour sleep schedule like everyone else and instead flood everyone with messages deep in the night?

After reading the summary Sylvester send her she looks up Marcus Fallin and sends
Based on your work you are hired for one probationary jump with the option of full employment based on your performance and needs of the crew.
If that is acceptable to you report back to the ship with your belongings.

Marcus Fallin
player, 22 posts
Sun 30 Jun 2019
at 22:44
  • msg #421

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

I find the conditions agreeable and will report to my post immediately, Marcus replies, and the grabs his vacc suit and pistol and makes his way to the ship.

Once present he announces himself at the airlock and waits for someone to either come get him, or give him clearance to enter.
Sylvester Jinx
player, 144 posts
ex-Darrian Confed. Navy
768CB4
Mon 1 Jul 2019
at 12:53
  • msg #422

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sylvester opens the airlock. "Greetings and solicitations citizen, you must be the engineer author I've been reading. Dry but informative. Come aboard."
This message was last edited by the player at 11:54, Tue 02 July 2019.
Sharik Kaagira
player, 372 posts
Freelance: ex-IISS, ex-IN
Serious about recreation
Mon 1 Jul 2019
at 22:53
  • msg #423

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Sharik had a few more minor things to buy, but mostly just wanted to gauge Walter's mood.  She cared and knew enough about her fellow nobleman to suspect when things were ... disappointing.  And the party had definitely gone pear-shaped quickly.  But when the amounts being bandied about were as large as they were (well, by non-noble standards, at least) people's baser natures peeked out sometimes.  She was pretty sure that Zeller had dealt with sums many orders of magnitude larger, which is why his attitude towards them was different than the others.  Cash was a commodity like every other one - a means to an end to accumulate more.  More of pretty much everything (material, at least - and some things immaterial).

The diminutive astrogator picked up a couple more basic expert programs (you know, 'just in case'), though her dataglove could only run a handful of expert systems at any given time, it never hurt to have a larger library.  At least for knowledge databases; she'd never consider slaving her nervous or limbic system to a targeting program or other expert program that physically tapped muscle movement.  Well, those types of programs still freaked her out slightly.  There were those in the field.

But there was time.  Vonon... er the Captain's ... projected timeline stated that they had a couple of days.  Since she'd already started the jump calculations to Invermory, Shar knew there would be plenty of time to refine and finalize those results.  She suggested coffee and a bit more walking to Sir Walter, knowing a really nice cafe and park nearby.

...

The auburn-haired socialite could only stifle a guffaw when Veronika was delivered to the ship shortly before leaving.  Though Sharik appreciated the others enthusiasm regarding getting more tailored clothing, she also knew that they had a couple of spare crew suits that she'd previously ordered.  One would likely fit the fembot - or could be tailored to do so; she'd let Walter know later.  Veronika was his after all.

She fastidiously avoided any interactions at the airlock.  She was primarily concerned with getting all of the prescribed cargo on-board.  Zeller had a habit packing things incredibly tight.  So, tight that even the shuttle was packed to the gills normally.  She'd never quite seen anyone that subscribed to the ol' merchant maxim about an empty cargo hold as literally as Sir Walter did.  But then, Shar couldn't argue with the results either.

As she walked up the cargo ramp, Sharik shook her head slightly; Cassandra's Belt never failed to make things interesting.  Every frellin' time.
Vonon Ronkunu
player, 529 posts
Vargr and Spacer
ex-Patrol Commander
Thu 4 Jul 2019
at 06:05
  • msg #424

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

In reply to Sharik Kaagira (msg # 423):

     The issue of shipboard weapons carry settled, Vonon grins and picks up a large beverage mug.

     "Well, that's settled, then."  Vonon says, then takes a sip from the mug.

     "Let's go take a look at the Med-Bay." Vonon says after his sip, gesturing out of the Bridge, aft, down the companionway, "It's right down here."

     Vonon leads Reese down the companionway, almost all the way back to the Lift entry--stopping in front of an iris-valve doorway on the ship's starboard side, directly opposite a manual hatchway.  There is a small, green-lit placard with the words 'MED-BAY' over the iris-valve controls.  Vonon touches the open button...

     The compartment inside is six meters fore-and-aft, three meters port-to-starboard (Room 11, Upper Deck).

     Upon entering the Med-Bay, it is immediately obvious to Reese that this is not the standard Med-Bay layout of any freighter or asteroid mining ship he's familiar with--to his eye, the layout looks much more like that of a surgical bay found aboard Imperial combat vessels (and at least one Pirate ship of his experience).

     There are two autodocs in this bay--typical of a design for larger volumes of trauma patients--rather than the usual one, more commonly found in civilian vessels.  It is also clearly obvious, just from superficial observation, that they are both old.  Each autodoc has dents and dings, scratches and scuffs, and areas that have been mended or replaced.  The autodoc's manufacturer is Sterilon Corporation, a reputable company operating mostly in the Spinward Marches--at a guess, Reese would say that the medical devices are relatively advanced Tech 14 machines, but that they were built 100 years ago, and kept running since.

     With a questioning glance towards Vonon, and an accepting nod in answer, Reese runs each of the autodocs through their internal diagnostic routines--the results being that both machines give their status as 95% functional.  Not due to any mechanical or electronic malfunction, but due to reduced stores of drugs and therapeutic chemicals--either completely used up or nearing their expiration dates, and needing restocked.

     The medical databases for each autodoc are quite extensive, containing files for every known species--and quite a few 'unknown' species which Reese has never heard of.  There are even extensive files on cybernetics for the known races.

     Quickly going through many of the storage units around the Med-Bay, Reese comes to the conclusion that not just drugs and chemicals need a restock, but just about everything needed for a properly functioning Med-Bay need at least some restocking, if not total resupply.

     Although, in fairness, he does find samples of many of the critical supplies to have manufacturing dates from within the last four months.
Reese Hardsimm
player, 48 posts
Medic, Hacker, Thief
Field Agent 2nd Class
Sun 14 Jul 2019
at 15:49
  • msg #425

Re: Destination: Cassandra Belt

Reese downloads a list of needed meds as well as a list of those close to expiration, figuring he can barter them in trade for a discount. After this he lists the rest of the medical supplies they will need and heads to Sir Walter's office.

Reese reintroduces himself as the Longshot's new Medic and presents the list of supplies he intends to procure for the ship. In addition Reese discusses investing in the Longshot and agrees to cash in his ship share to do so. Lastly Reese asks who to see about a cabin assignment and after being presented with the options chooses the smallish stateroom separated from the Medbay by the communal fresher.

Reese then procures the medbay supplies, retrieves his sidearm and the rest of his personal belongings from storage and returns to the ship. Before launch Reese plans to have the medbay stocked, cataloged and ready for business.
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