The countdown reached J-Minus Zero. Mariel engaged the Jump drives, and they soundlessly entered Jump Space via the wormhole created by the burst of energy and flood of exotic particles converted from the L-Hyd fuel consumed in the Jump. In a week, give or take, they would be on Qarant.

In reply to GM (msg # 1):

A day or so out from Qarant, Lorain held a council-of-war in the ship's crew rec area. A readout appeared on the screen, along with a map of the planet.



QARANT/JUNGLEBLUT 0202 E558260-7 NONINDUSTRIAL G A

PLANET: FIRST OF 3 IN SYSTEM PERIOD 106.5 DAYS DENSITY 1.08 STANDARD ROTATIONAL PERIOD 38 HOURS, 19 MINUTES 28.09 SECONDS AXIAL TILT 5^o 15'18.8"

"Qarant is divided into two zones. Our zone, the League's zone, is in the western part of the main continent. To the left of the "Green Line". Theirs is to the east of the line of control.

"References in recovered native inscriptions and texts to the "Place of the First comes" of the "Great City of the Founders" intrigued Institute scientists for several months. It was definitely established in 1107 that these refernces were to a city, as yet undiscovered, which was most likely the initial landing point for the human colonists who settled Qarant. In the end we were able to locate the site on the Desaekhe side of the zone boundary but were too late as the Hegemony had already beat us to the punch.

"The Hegemony had already discovered the city as a result of orbital and aerial photography and ground-penetrating radar, thermal, magnetic anomaly and densitometer sensors. Like, this was the work of the missing scout, Dumar. Followup ground surveys by scout parties in late 1107 located the city beneath a broad mudflat along the river Zenatar close to the river delta. This site was over 600 km distant from all previous sites discovered by either group.

"A cluster of spires, a dome, and other landmarks were just visible above the sediment. Originally these were thought to be close to the surface and thus cataloged during preliminary surveys as evidence of a minor settlement at best. These structures, plus the patterns of streets, buildings and infrastructure grid, were later found to be buried much deeper under the mud flat than originally thought. We recently revised the scale of development to that of a major urban area. The theory is that a nearby active volcano erupted several times over the period of a decade, covering the site in a layer of ash and leading it to be abandoned. Then the ruins were buried under repeated massive mud flows from the plateau to the north of the city, burying all but the most massive structures. By all accounts, the Hegemony scientists are excavating remarkably intact relics which have been excellently preserved by the mud and the excellent climate of the region.

"Following is a revised map of the site, which straddles the Zenatar River. Excavations by the Hegemony scientists have intensified over the last two months. They even colocated their starport to provide easier access to the site.

"As mentioned in the past is the fact that Qarant, along among the Zhodani-influenced cultures which flourished in the Far Frontiers before the waves of emigration of the early Third Imperium, had a culture that employed parts of the Vilani language and script. The mystery of how a Vilani-speaking people came to settle on Qarant is of great interest to archaeologists involved in the investigation.

"If we land in the League zone, to the west, we will be approaching from the left side of the map."

Ken looked over the data and maps.  "So we land at the League class E port under our cover of a resupply mission.  That should get us planetside.  Then we'll need to get overland to the dig and somehow figure where the key location might be if there are any."

Hmmm, that's quite the overland hike.  The air raft would help, but we may need to make a supply run or two first.  Depending on what we find, we may not have sufficient carrying capacity to get everyone out along with any artifacts in one trip.  Blake stares at the map.

We could also move the Empress up closer, some real NOE flying & stash her nearby - a quick dash by air raft across the border.  Those navy bases worry me though along with any hedge ground units.  Wouldn't want to start a shooting war ...

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 4):

"I don't know about the ship, but doing it by A/R would be easier on us, and faster to get away.  It also shouldn't ping on anybody's radar if they're looking at the sky, since it can be driven between trees and cruft."

An A/R cargo carrier would be better than a straight passenger  model.  How many days out there you reckon ??  The professor needs to look over that dig site, she may be able to narrow down our search area too.

He ponders his coffee for awhile, Any chance we could listen in on their transmissions ??  Or are they military encrypted now ??  Be nice to know what craft are sitting on their L/Z too.  Have to listen to any in-system comm traffic.

Ken listened to the discussions.  "It would be easier to sneak in with an air raft or a grav cargo carrier if we can manage.  If not we could fly the ship in close and park her in a lake while we head to the site."  He looked to Blake.  "Good idea about listening to in-system chatter.  I'm not sure how disciplined they are but we can try.  Does anyone have any skill at that kind of snooping?"

"Hmmm. It looks like we need some more transport," comments Ollie as he lounges on a comfortable seat. "I can ask around. There must be something available."

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 6):

"I'll see if we can monitor their comms. It might be encrypted, but it'll probably be older. The Hegemony forces on Qarant are not terribly advanced, Desaeke's basic technological base is barely starflight capable, although they do have some newer Zhodani gear."

Lorain also looked at the map.

"I hate to mention this but we need to find out what Kalamanru knows.

"We just don't have enough data to suggest a starting point for a search. That means we're going to need to infiltrate the Hegemony camp. Plus if we could get evidence the Hegemony is interfering with League citizens like myself or Dumar, the Free Suns would have a reason to intervene. Their camp is where they'd hold Dumar, if he's still alive.

"They do patrol the treaty border by air. I don't think a ship could slip through that way. But an air/raft could do it."

In reply to Prof. Lorain Messandi (msg # 10):

"Ha! If we had the sensors, we could infiltrate by going up the river, underwater. But we don't have sonar. Just Radar and Ladar."

Sonar ...  Blake looks at Ollie, raises his eyebrows, questioning ...

Tell us more about this river ...  Blake makes the rounds topping off cups.

Ken listened to his crew with growing interest and excitement.  "Definitely let's see if we can hack into their communications.  It would be helpful to at least track what their patrols are doing." He turned to Lorain; "Well, we'll sneak into the camp.  We know from Dumaer's map where their HQ is at.  I want to try to rescue Dumaer if he is alive.  And the personnel at the League camp can probably help us somewhat with intelligence."

"The river is the Zenatar. The city site is about 121km west from the Zenatar gulf, to the east. It was probably pretty deep at one time, back when the city was founded it was navigatable down to the gulf. I don't know if it is anymore, over thousands of years it could have changed course in major or minor ways a hundred times."

She held up her cup for another pour.

"Building a sonar from scratch in a few hours is a bit beyond me, but I could jury-rig an existing one into our sensor suit if we could find one," interjected Ollie. "But, what worries me about going up river in this bird is the bridge. The old bird is nearly 20 meters across and we have no idea how that bridge is built and if we could fit under it."

Has the expedition ever done underwater searching Professor ??  They might have boats & such.  That would also be a legitimate disguise.

Then Blake stares into space, so to speak ...  I would also assume the Hedge has spies in the workforce as well.  We will need a 'public consumption' story as well.

Neva listened to what everybody said and had to agree with Ollie.  "Hey if Ollie says it can't be done then it can't be done.  Going into the river again?  Isn't that what got us in trouble the last place we went rescuing people?"

Neva smiled but there was some logistical problems with all the plans.  "So is that our only option?  We aren't the best at sneaking in from what I've seen.  Not wanting to be a nay sayer but just want to be sure which way we are going so we can commit to it and not be split."

Ken shook his head.  "I don't think that turning submarine and sneaking up the river is a good idea.  There may be shallows and obstructions.  I think our best bet would be to contact the League forces and see if we can use an air raft from the base."

"Official or unofficial, I'm sure we can find an air raft somewhere around here," laughed Ollie.

But then his face turned serious. "I think we should have a cover story if we get stopped at the border. I assume they don't have a shoot first policy yet."

"Research, of course," offered Linus. "The Institute wanting to check up on what is happening here, wondering if there is scope for some of their people to come and work here..."

Lorrain made a "kind of, yes?" expression.

"I think we should plan for avoidance of Desaekhe patrols if at all possible.

"Two Institute air/rafts were attacked without warning on different occasions for straying across the border. About a dozen people were killed, all told.

"There won't be a border guard post as such, but if we're detected in the Hegemony zone I expect they will shoot first and enquire afterwards.

"The Travellers Aid Society considers the entire Hegemony zone to be an Amber Zone. Basically travel at your own risk!"

In reply to Prof. Lorain Messandi (msg # 21):

"I have an idea.  Why not drop Ken and I a day's walk from the outpost with an encrypted comms unit, so we can prep some information on the site.

Then we can send info back to help the planning for whatever happens next.

I'm pretty sure that he can keep up with an old man, like me."

[OOC:  Hawk's not in favor of this plan, because it breaks up the party, creates too much chaos for the GM, etc.  Also increases odds of Walker and Ken getting whacked and giving away the rest of the party.  If we're going to give away the party, best to have all the guns in one place.  :)  I am, however willing to do it if the party wants it.

Walker, on the other hand, is used to being in the rough, and stalking.  It's something he would have looked at as a viable option.  ROLEPLAYING!  :) ]

Hmmm, easily done, especially if we stop by a sizable lake or such.  We could always drop down for a water test & use the ship to shield anyone slipping off.  Or take the time to tank up - with people wandering all over, a couple could 'get lost.'

Blake ponders things a while, then Of course, our approach could skirt the boundary while the cameras run when coming in from orbit ...

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 23):

"You think we should land on a lake in the League Zone, then drop off a party to try and covertly cross into the Hegemony Zone? OK, that's not too difficult.

"As for Thomas' suggestion of dropping him and Ken off, that would mean penetrating deep into the Hegemony Zone. I assume you mean the drop off would be via Air/Raft and not the ship?"

Mariel looked at the map, picking out lakes in the League Zone that could serve the purpose.

Ken considers.  "I think that a recon is a good idea but I'm not sure we can get the ship across the border or land directly in the Hegemony side without being detected.  If we're going to go across the border in air rafts, and we'll need two I think, then best to go straight in.  We can land nearby and do a scan with binoculars I imagine."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 25):

Lorain interjected,

"I haven't been to the dig on Qarant. But as it fell under my department I know they did do some underwater research. Not sure if it was with a sonar we could mount on the ship, but there were some towed arrays for bottom scanning. They have a number of air/rafts we could borrow at the Institute's base."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 25):

"The problem is balancing speed vs stealth.  They are highly unlikely to find two people in the woods.  An Air/Raft is more easily spotted than the two of us, on foot.  On the plus side, if we can get in, and out without being spotted, then the next part of whatever we choose to do next will still have the advantage of surprise."

Lakes on our side of the border.  Their side would require an in-flight emergency, not an option I would easily take too.  I would also change the transponder codes & ship name since mr K probably knows about us & the ship's name.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 28):

"Good call on the transponder codes! This ship can do that. It's a legacy of when Kalamanru used it for smuggling after her hijacked it from the Institute. And we took it back."

"It's not the final walk in from the LZ that's the problem. It's penetrating a hundered kilometers into the Hegemony zone to get to that point.

"That "bound" from the League zone would need to be via air/raft or ground vehicle. I don't recommend the ship do it, although we could try. The problem is Kalamanru outfitted this ship as a contraband smuggler, not a blockade-runner. We don't have the speed, NOE maneuverability or stealth."

Oh to have a tunneling machine ...  Say, Ollie ... ???

Blizzard here in Vermont, if the power goes, may be off-line for a while.  4" when I went in to work, 12 when I got home.  And still coming down.

Mariel and Jaxxon left to get working on the transponder codes.

The ship was still a day or so out of "breakout" into realspace.
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:25, Thu 11 Dec 2014.

Ken considered.  "I say we change the transponder codes and land on the League side.  We get a couple of air rafts and head across to the diggings.  We land nearby and Thomas and I can do a recon closer.  Once things are clear the rest of the party can come in and investigate.  We'll need Lorain's expertise to interpret whatever we find."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 33):

"I can live off the land if I have to, and I can set up some visual signals that are easy to read from the air if necessary.  I'll go make a list with a drawing of them."

He frowned.

"Not every hunt went as planned.  but I'm still here."

Ken took a deep breath.  "Ok, Blake, Mariel, bring us into the League base.  We'll scrounge air rafts and use them to get to the diggings.  Thomas and I can scout ahead and we'll bring the rest of the team in when we have a path.  The fake transponder is going to be crucial."

Sounds good.  Transponder codes, do we have a library of similar type ship university codes ??  Otherwise making something up.  Mr K already knows the previous codes - so lets not use them.

Once done with the transponder, Blake helps Ken & Thomas sort thru the gear for what they will need after landing.

Once they've picked a code Ken will comm to the League base on the planet to announce their arrival and request clearance to land with supplies.

Blake spends many hours listening to any inter-ship chatter.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 38):

The ship had "neutral" ID codes that are clean, but old (dating back to when it was used to smuggle contraband). No codes for other Institute ships were available as they had not used the Empress for illegal activity since it was returned to its rightful owners!

However, Linus checked everything and decided it looked legitimate enough to fool a routine check. Blake, being a "Jack of All Trades" and having some exposure to criminal activity (through either briefings or rumour passed through the grapevine) agreed they were good to go.

After breakout into the system, they were immediately hailed by the League research station."Independent Starship Belladona, this is Institute research station Qarant. Please follow the coordinates and reentry path we are transmitting. It is important you do not deviate or deorbit under manual control. Please respond."

The nav computer confirmed they were receiving course update data.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:44, Tue 16 Dec 2014.

Ken glanced at his pilots for confirmation and then replies. "This is Belladona.  We understand and will comply with your instructions.  We've no desire to get shot down.  We are proceeding now to make planet fall."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 40):

"Roger, putting flight information into the computer." She punched a few keys and the data was input to the automatic flight system.

OOC: everyone in the cockpit can make an INT check. 2d6 below INT score!

Blake reviews the transmitted directions.  How's the weather down there ??  He pays a lot of attention to the after-jump diagnostic checks & Ollie's findings.  This time, the ship may need to be flying at a moment's notice.

Ken nodded. "Ok, let's bring her in."

OOC: 22:14, Today: Ken Jenkins rolled 9 using 2d6 with rolls of 6,3. INT check TN 8.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 43):

Walker worked on his pack, cleaned and inspected his rifle, cleaned and polished his bullet casings.

"Do we have chemical hand-warmers in stock?  This is going to be a long stalk." he asked as he checked in with whoever appeared to be responsible for equipment.

"I wish we had a couple of ghillie suits.  But if wishes were horses, I wouldn't have to walk."

Linus came along with some hi-energy food bars he'd made for the away team. He'd also got some more conventional sandwiches and finger food for them.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 45):

"Thanks, Linus.  Do you know if we have some sort of neutral, loose weave cloth?"

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 44):

"I bought a load of survival gear, and those include chemical heat packs. I don't know if we have bolts of cloth! Let me look."

He left the bridge to have a look while they were coming in.

The ship began entering the atmosphere on the specified glide path. Mariel and Blake concentrated in piloting although it was routine as they were on automatic.

Neva looked out the forward viewport. "Something's wrong. Where are we landing again? We seem to be coming in pretty low."

In reply to GM (msg # 48):

Somewhat distracted, Mariel checked the screen. "These were the coordinates and glide path we were given. Maybe it only looks like we're coming in too low?"

20:12, Today: Blake Renfield rolled 4 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,2. Blake - Int roll.

20:12, Today: Blake Renfield rolled 4 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,2. Blake - Int roll.

Mariel, switch us to manual - now !!  Everyone, hold on !!  Something's wrong here.

Blake maintains altitude & banks to the left, searching for intervening cover between the ship & their landing location.  Something to block scans from the landing field, so we can't be easily tracked.

Mariel, look for a deep lake for us to hide in.  Or overhanging cover.

Ollie, how soon to power completely down if we have to ??

I think they wanted us to fly into the ground, saw it on one of those late night vids.  Neva, if you have a hidey-hole around here, now would be a good time to let us know about it.

Blake brings her right down to NOE flying, slowing the ship down for easier control.

Mariel, shut the transponder off in, five, four , three, two , one along with  all active electronics.  Maybe they will think we crashed out here.  Distance to  the landing pad ??

Maybe over-reacting here, but flying into the ground is never a wise landing choice when you have a perfectly good ship.

Ken looks around as he hangs on to a stanchion.  "What the hell is going on?"

"I was about to ask the same thing?" said Linus, who'd sat down rather heavily in the nearest chair.

"It shouldn't take long. Just flipping a few switches," replied Ollie over the comm. Before madly rushing around disengaging backup systems and saver systems so they could go quiet at a moments notice.

In reply to Jaxxon Zalvedes (msg # 47):

"Thanks, gives us a shot at faking a ghillie suit."

When things go wonky up on the bridge, Walker finds a seat and belts in.

If the crew wasn't up to this, the excursion will come to an abrupt end.

Major change in plans everyone.  Right now, do we find a great hiding spot here abouts or depart the area ?? 

Blake nods to Mariel to help with the controls, going to be difficult flying the Empress this low to the ground.  Not at all like one of those scout couriers.  Makes the Empress fly like a cinder block in comparison.

Mariel, lets bring her up a bit & get some altitude underneath us.  Crash positions everyone.  this isn't a drill.

Ken strapped himself into one of the crash seats in the bridge.  "Why the hell would they send us that course?  Could it have been spoofed from the Hegemony?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 58):

Jaxxon checked the radio.

"Yes, it could be a spoofed Hegemony signal!"

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 57):

The ship dropped as Mariel cut the transponder.

Neva, having not been to Qarant before, was unaware of any place to hide. However, they were in Hegemony airspace out over the ocean, at least 300km from land at an altitude of 20,000m. There was a layer of cloud cover at 4000m.

Radars didn't show any approaching aircraft or missiles. They lacked the equipment that military and scout ships would have to detect if they were being locked-on by enemy Radar or Ladar sensors.

In reply to Jaxxon Zalvedes (msg # 59):

"Blake, taking the ship into NOE flight is dangerous. Even if we go slow this ship can still plow into a hillside and the hull will take a lot of stress."

Mariel switched off the transponders and checked the coordinates they were given. "It doesn't look like they were trying to crash us. More likely they just wanted us to come in for landing at their strip so they could seize the ship and claim it was our fault.

"I'm sorry, that was my fault. I should have checked out the glide path more thoroughly."

Ken shook his head as the ship leveled off at altitude.  "Let's get down to a safe height off the ocean so we are off of long range radar and get back to the League side of the border.  It had to have been spoofed.  That they did this means they are moving closer to war or know who we are."

OK, lets bring her up to a better cruising altitude then.  Sorry Mariel, I should have checked too.  The ship comes slowly upwards & the pilot's  relax.  Another half hour & Blake will turn on the electronics, find their location & turn towards the correct landing pad, staying well away from the boundary.

Care to re-assess our strategy Ken ??  Anyone else ??

Ollie, my apologies, but we will need to do a hull check one of these days.

"Are you thinking that we've been tagged, Blake?" Ollie's voice replied over the comm. "Had an electronic hitchhiker? Could be. Or it could be our illustrious adversary had out thought us and was expecting us."

More along the second choice Ollie.  Finding an electronic tag could be quite difficult.  We could sift thru the cargo once it's unloaded & have a look.  It does increase the paranoia factor though ...

Blake then turns to Ken Freighters have a quick turn-around time on these runs.  We may need an excuse to stay longer ...  Hydraulic leaks are nasty ones to locate & fix.  Plus a very valid structural check. wink, wink, nod, nod ...  Perhaps Ollie & Neva could put something together will you guys do your look/see.

The ship turned easily away from the Hegemony land zone. Radar picked up an aircraft of unidentified type vectoring towards them from the Hegemony zone at 50km range, subsonic speed (600km/h). It turned away once they were clear and returned towards the base.

They approached the League land zone via a loop down along the southern coast.

Closer to the League base they began to pick up a radio signal that seemed to be coming from the landing area. Blake's guess was the Hegemony had been jamming their signal by overpowering it, spoofing it as Ken thought.

"Unidentified ship this is League station Qarant. How do you read?"

Ken shook his head.  "I'd guess that they figured we would be headed this way after them.  They can't know yet what happened back on Alzenzi unless someone jumped here ahead of us. I'd say they know the electronic signature of the ship or there is some kind of tag.  We'd best scan as much as possible.  It's probably something in the transponder if I had to guess."

He considers their options. "I think we proceed as planned.  Let's spoof a maintenance failure if we have to in order to stay longer.  We'll just have to be careful."  He looked at Lorain.  "Do you have any pull with the Institute organization here that can get us help?  We really need to find out what Kalamanru is up to as well as try to rescue Dumaer."

League Station, university supply ship Belladona inbound.  How's the weather down there ??

Neva looked over at Blake.  "You tell Ollie that.  I'm not going to tell him that you want to fake a repair.  They get sensitive about that kind of stuff you know."  She grinned at the thought knowing that Ollie would probably do something but do it in a way that it really wouldn't injure his baby.

Far be it from me to tell our illustrious engineer what to do ...  I'm sure he is just bubbling with ideas ...   Blake keeps an eye on the flightpath & the outside scenery - always nice to file away an emergency LZ.

"Good! Be advised, for the last few weeks the Hegemony has been trying to decoy our air/rafts and supply shuttles from the League base to their landing field. They've done this in the past but stopped. Now they've started again, probably due to the damn war between the Imperials and Zhodanis.

"Anyways, you are cleared for landing. We don't have any facilities here other than the minimal. This isn't even my normal job, I'm the base camp comm specialist. Transmitting coordinates now."

The scopes didn't show any bogeys. They were quickly approaching the south coast of the League zone.

In reply to GM (msg # 71):

Thoroughly checking the course, Mariel nodded.

"OK, these check out. Bringing her in?" she asked Blake.

Yeah, lets land this puppy, been a long day.  Blake elects not to say anything about the spoofing while in the air.

Ken shook his head and frowned at the broadcast from the base.  "Damn Hegemony bastards.  They could have killed us all.  At least it's possible that it was not directed particularly at us."  He considered options.  "Let's not talk about our mission until we can get on land and then only with  the commander.  There may be spies in the camp."

Flying low over the ocean, they crossed the coast in minutes. Mariel brought them up to 1000m so they wouldn't need to use terrain-following flight. Within the hour, they were over the forested plain where the League landing pad was located. VFR (Visual Flight Rules) were in order, and they spotted a plume of red smoke.

The landing pad was a clearing in the woods large enough for their ship and another small craft or two. There were three prefab huts off to the side. Someone was waiting for them down below and had set a smoke grenade to guide them in. It was early morning.

In reply to GM (msg # 75):

From the copilot's seat, Mariel said to Blake, "bring 'er in directly, or circle to have a better look."

Ken went back to his stateroom and fetched his PRIS binoculars.  He swept the area with them and handed them to Blake. "See what you think Blake."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 77):

There didn't seem to be anything amiss. A path led to another collection of prefab buildings a short ways away on a riverbank, but as most travel was via air/raft there were no roads cleared in the forest. The other camp buildings appeared to be occupied because of their heat signatures, the huts at the landing pad were unoccupied. There didn't seem to be anyone hiding under the cover of the woods. If there were other vehicles parked under cover (and the Hegemony favoured ground vehicles due to a less sophisticated technological manufacturing base) they were well-hidden.

If we are going to make like we're damaged, best not do a tour, bring her right in.   Easy does it Mariel.  Assorted piloting jargon as they come in, take it slow & careful ...  and touch-down.  A whiff of dust & the Empress settles in place.

Now let's see what kind of a mess we've landed in.  Blake will head over to 'Traffic Control' to check in ...

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 69):




A gruff laugh came from the comm. "Honest, officer, I don't know how those iron filings managed to get into that high voltage equipment."

Ken nodded at Blake's assessment.  "It looks perfectly normal as far as I can tell."

He laughed at Ollie's comments.  "Make it look reasonable Ollie but not so much that we can't get out of here at a moment's notice.  I have a feeling things are going to stay hot."

Ken buckled on his pistol and headed out with Blake to the traffic control such as it was.  "Lorain, once it's clear we'll need your help with the base commander.  You're the best known of all of us if we have to ask for something a bit unorthodox."

Ollie fiddles with the indicator panel so that some of the important lights show red instead of green on the maneuver drive.

Then he pulls out the old power Interlocker that Neva had been working on and adds some iron filings to the insides. While it is on the work bench he hooks it up to the power supply while keeping the power off. If he has to turn the power on, it will make a lot of smoke and dreadful smell. That, and an impressively broken bit of kit.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 81):

"OK. I don't know the communications tech but I do know the expedition leader and lead archaeologist. Lika Olekskya, I have met her through the Institute."

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 79):

"OK. If the Maneuver Drive is going to be offline for "repairs" we can still keep the Power Plant warmed up."

She began the checklist for ship shutdown, but modified to keep the fusion plant online.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 79):

Blake, Ken and Lorrain exited the ship via the Starboard Personnel Airlock.

The atmosphere was cool and thin, but breathable and fresh. They knew they would see few birds or other flying creatures like insects on this planet. The ground was muddy, there had been a recent rain. Foliage had a definite "alpine" look and feel to it, with a preponderance of moss and shrubs over grasses, trees were coniferous (firs and pines) and somewhat stunted.

This was in every way a "Frontier" starport with no facilities or fuel, and no real traffic control. The man waiting for them was merely one of the support staff for the Institute operations on the planet. He was a middle-aged man with Asian features.

"Hi. I'm Hanno. Sorry you almost got tricked into landing in the Hegemony zone. Last month a shuttle from the League base in the system almost got decoyed. It was chased out of their airspace. Now, you guys are on some kind of supply run?"

Blake pumps Hanno's hand, Blake, chief pilot, Captain Ken& Prof Messandi.  Yes, we have some cargo for you.  We can have it on the 'tailgate' in a half hour or so.  We also need to do a complete damage check, that spoofing shook us real hard.  I thought they had taken over here & were purposefully flying us into the ground.  Some scary flying there for awhile.

Blake then hovers in the background while the others carry on.  He eyes the 'facilities availble' & tries to get a feeling for the camp morale.

Ken stayed back for a moment as Blake introduced them.  He stepped forward and shook hands.  "Ken Jenkins, captain.  That was a nasty trick they pulled on us.  It's a good thing Blake was on the ball and got us out of danger."  He looked around.  "We'll get the cargo out while we stay dirtside to effect some repairs, likely for a few days at least.  We can help move the cargo around the camp if you need the help."  He paused then and continued.  "Can we speak to your base commander?  I'd like to get a bit more information on the situation here as well as see if he has any messages or cargo to head back to Alzenzi."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 87):

"Er, "Base Commander"? This isn't much more'n a flat spot cleared in the woods. Otherwise, we have no facilities to speak of other than a metal shop. This is a dig, so you're wanting the lead archaeologist, Lika.

"Here she comes now."
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:38, Mon 29 Dec 2014.

The air was cool under the shadow and the trees.

Blake saw that the buildings were an air/raft garage with a makeshift workshop, an admin hut with communications equipment and a small warehouse for storing finds before being transported offworld. Main accommodations seemed to be elsewhere. Inside the garage was a grav bus and air/raft.

In reply to GM (msg # 89):

Feeling chilly, Lorain sealed up the front of her jacket.

She waved at an approaching air/raft. "That must be Lika now!"

Ken nodded.  "Chief archeologist will do, thanks."  He looked up as the air raft approached.  "Do you know her Lorain?"

After Ollie had finished his efforts in the Drive room and then headed into the cargo hold. There he lowered the forward cargo ramp and walked down.

"Alright!" he yelled, "Who wants this stuff?"

She nodded.

"We met a few months ago at the Institute when I was made head of department."

In reply to Prof. Lorain Messandi (msg # 93):

Once they were down, Walker unstrapped himself from the seat, grabbed his pack and his rifle, and headed out to the planet, looking for Ken.

Neva hung back on the ramp of the ship, playing her role as schleper letting Ollie walk down the ramp.  This way she could get a better look around as to the situation and where people were and seldom did anybody REALLY look at the schlepers.  They were almost as invisible drivers in vehicles.

Ken nodded to Lorain.  "Let's hope we can convince her to help us or at least remain neutral."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 96):

"Agreed." She watched the air/raft come in for a landing.

"Do you want me to talk to her? I'm not sure what your plan is. You can explain it better. I can, you know, back you up."

Ken frowned as he watched the air raft approach.  "If you can vouch for me and back me up, I'm happy to speak to the chief."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 98):

"Of course, I'll introduce you," Lorain replied.

After the air/raft landed, a woman in a down vest and coveralls debarked. Lorain greeted her with a handshake and a warm hug. Lika was surprised to see Lorain.

"Lika! So great to see you. Yes, I know it's unusual to see me here. Look, can we go somewhere private?"

Lika indicated one of the prefab huts. "Yes, inside my office."

In the mean time, Hanno signed for the supply shipment, and directed Ollie to put it in the warehouse, really just a large shed. He opened the large rollup door to allow access.

Thomas noted the cool, high-altitude "alpine" feel to the planet, or at least this latitude.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:02, Sun 04 Jan 2015.

In reply to GM (msg # 99):

Lika showed Ken and Lorain into the "office" hut. There were no cubicles or offices, just banged-up desks, computers, a restroom and open kitchette in the back. Lika put a pot of tea on to boil.

"Now, what's up?"

In reply to Lika Olekskya (msg # 100):

Glancing at Ken, Lorain took a deep breath.

"Serious things have been happening lately, not just with tensions between the League and Hegemony but with regards to Eneri Kalamanaru! We think he's here on Qarant and is covering up a major find. They kidnapped a Scout to get the information, and tried to kidnap me back on Alzenei. I'm alright and the kidnappers are in custody, but that's why we're here.

"Ken here works for the Institute. He has a plan to find out what Kalamanaru is up to, and free the Scout, Dumaer. If he's still alive. Please listen to what Ken says and do what you can to cooperate."

Lika looked flabbergasted at the news, but looked a little better once she was reassured Lorain was OK. She looked a little concerned about there being some potential for conflict but then said, "Dumaer? I know him! I met him a few years back. He was doing some followup system surveys of this system. I can't believe Kalamanaru might have kidnapped him! Are you sure?

"And if so, what can I do to help, Ken?"

She addressed Ken, assuming he was the man with the plan!

While the profs converse, Blake quietly asks Hanno about spare parts and tools.  He then takes a look & comms Ollie & Neva about his findings.  Do they also have detailed planetary maps & refueling lakes already marked on these map chits ??  If so, can he get copies ??  Any kind of weather prediction here ??  If so, can he get one for the next week to 10 days ??  He then texts Ken & Thomas these findings.  I take it Blake can make as many map copies as he wants once the ship as a chip to use.  He will put Mariel to work plotting them in case of need.  He also texts Ken & Messandi asking how many personnel here & how quickly could they be assembled if we needed to 'Bug out' & lets keep this very quiet.

At a bit of a loose end, Linus took a stroll around the compound.

There are a few buildings around a cleared area in the forest.

Nearby is a crystal clear lake for refuelling. Hoses can be run there.

Ken nodded in agreement as Lorain spoke and then stepped forward.  He was not a space hand but here on the ground Ken was in his element.  "Lika, thanks for agreeing to listen to us.  We want to keep the involvement of your people to the minimum so that if things go south it will be solely a group of independents pursuing a private vendetta."

He took a deep breath.  "We've been tracking down an artifact that Dumaer brought back from here that indicates that there is a major find here in the ruins.  It indicates that there may be some link between the Sky Raiders and the native civilization."  Ken displayed the information they had from the artifact.  "We also have a strong suspicion that Kalamanaru may have Dumaer here as well." 

Ken pulled out the map that they had from the Scout.  "We want to borrow one of your air rafts, enough to take a team into the Hegemony main camp, pull out Dumaer and go check the ruins."

After Honno signed for the cargo, Ollie starts moving it into the store. He was going to mine this Honno character for local scuttlebut, but Blake already has that covered.

Back me up here Ollie, maybe they need some of your mechanical skills or other knowledge.  I'm just a flyboy with sunglasses ...

Ollie finishes offloading and storing the cargo before heading over to Blake and Honno to catch up with the local gossip.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 103):

Hanno answered they had spares and parts for air/rafts and grav vehicles. Nothing for ship or small craft repair!

"We can call for a shuttlecraft from the League base in the asteroid belt if you need spares and tools. It'll take about a half day."

There were about forty staff in the area, about a hundred on the planet in general.

"Maps are not a problem, ours are pretty good. Here, I'll download the information
 so you can make as many copies as you like."
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:04, Tue 06 Jan 2015.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 106):

"Sure, take what you need.

"We have a military surplus G-Carrier. Unarmed, but it's armoured. Hanno is an ex-Scout, he'll be glad to pilot you."

In reply to Lika Olekskya (msg # 111):

"Yes of course! Dumaer's a mate of mine. Hate to hear Kalamanaru's got him.

"As for wildlife and predators, stay away from the ursinoids. They're like Terran Grizzlies."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:28, Tue 06 Jan 2015.

Ken smiled.  "Thanks Lika, the use of the g-carrier would be perfect.  I've flown in more than my share of the armed and unarmed versions.  Let's hope the extra armor won't be necessary."  He looked over at Hanno and stuck out a hand.  "I'm Ken Jenkins, good to meet you.  We'd be glad to have you fly us Hanno.  Do you have any night vision gear?  A few of us lack it."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 113):

The ex-scout shook hands.

"Hanno, Hanno Sakawa. Glad to help.

"Night vision? Yes, as a matter of fact we have a dozen pairs. Most are combination thermal imaging and low-light. We use them for air surveying to look for buried structures. They belong to the Institute, so they're yours. As long as Lorain signs for them!"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:01, Wed 07 Jan 2015.

In reply to Hanno Sakawa (msg # 114):

Walker hunted Ken down, and knocked on the door before entering.

"Sorry, Ken, I was finishing things up shipboard before I got off.  May I join you?"

"Thanks Hanno, it's good to be working with you.  We'll probably need a half dozen sets depending on how many we take with us on the mission."  He frowned and laid out the maps he had.  "Can we head out tonight?  What do you recommend for our approach, over the ocean or land based?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 116):

Hanno nodded at Thomas' request to join them.

"I would recommend a water approach, then complete the trip overland.

"The G-carrier is surplus. We use it to underwater exploration. Half the passenger bay has a modular airlock and pressurisation chamber, plus a towed Sonar array which we deploy out the back and drag along as we fly at 3m altitude."

He led the men to the garage.

The G-Carrier had seen better days. It had none of the sensors, weapons or stealthing it might have one possessed. It was a sand-colour but with multicoloured patches.

On the plus side, it was sealed and could seat 10 (the equipment in the rear bay took up some space; otherwise it would carry 14). There was sonar for underwater navigation and surveying, plus an airlock and decompression chamber fitted to the rear deck hatch. The rear ramp was blocked by a towed Sonar array that could be deployed out the back and towed along behind as the G-Carrier hovered. Speed was 100 kph cruise, 120 kph sprint and 75 kph NOE.

In reply to GM (msg # 118):

"Approach shore underwater, surface enough for us to get out, and then we hump it from there.  No problems.  A bit like poaching."

He grinned.

"Long as there's no game warden about, we're fine."

"Looks fun," said Linus coming back from his stroll.

"Who's going?"

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 119):

Hanno thought it over.

"Should work. Navigation underwater is via Sonar and the inertial nav system.

"We can approach the ruins from the large bay. But the command post is located on the upstream side, you'd need to circumnavigate the area. Call it a 20k hike both ways."

Once the formalities are over, Blake will start the refueling process.  He pays attention to their placement to avoid sucking up any muck & debris.  Once the process starts, he wanders back & forth checking both ends, eventually finding a chair or other convenient place to sit & watch the water & surroundings ...  He hums an old scout song, "A pilot's life for me ..."

Ken looked over the APC.  He'd traveled in a number of these in his time in the League Marines.  A careful look revealed that it had been thoroughly demilitarized but would still be serviceable.  "I'd rather not hump it 20 klicks overland.  If we need to evacuate injured prisoners, especially in a hurry we'll need the APC up close.  Can we approach up the river directly to the ruins?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 123):

The ex-Scout thought about it for a moment.

"I don't see why not. In theory they're not watching the river or have any reason to string nets or lines to prevent infiltration by submersible. But by the same token, we don't know if they're exploring the river or have deployed sensors or equipment. There may be rubble in the river at the ruins themselves.

"Short answer, we can probably approach up the river. But that still leaves you at the wrong end of the city."

Ken considers the advice.  "Let's go in via water to get close.  Then we can make an approach along the nape of the earth from the south east off of the bay.  They will not be likely to be looking for hostiles from that direction. It is behind them so to speak.  We'll stay really low and go slow.  That will get us within a few klicks of the command center.  Thomas and I can go in and scout.  If we can rig up some kind of cammo netting the rest of the crew can stay concealed in the APC."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 125):

"OK, we can come in from the southeast. Then circle... west and then north?

"As well, we can remove the towed sonar gear from the back of the G-Carrier. That shouldn't take more than a couple hours. We don't want to wreck it!"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:42, Tue 13 Jan 2015.

In reply to Hanno Sakawa (msg # 126):

"Have you seen electronics emissions that would indicate some sort of sensors that would detect our NOE travel?  Because if they spot that, our trip is over quickly, I'm imagining."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 127):

He shook his head.

"I have no idea if they have any Radar or not. I doubt they have Meson or Neutrino sensors deployed but anything is possible!

"If we fly NOE we should be safe."

Ken nodded.  "Yes, let's head underwater until the last minute.  We'll head around so that we come in from the southeast.  We'll hit land and head north and west at NOE.  We'll time things so that we are cross the beach at dark."  He considered.  "Yes, good idea.  Our crew can help take the sonar gear out."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 129):

After a couple hours effort, the sonar gear was removed from the rear of the G-Carrier.

Meanwhile, the ship's fuel tanks were filled with pure freshwater. It would still need to be refined, of course, but at least their drinking water would not be so stale.

Jaxxon and Marielle tried to keep up the ruse of an M-Drive malfunction by making repairs where they could be observed. Hanno, however, didn't appear to be buying it but said nothing. Instead, he helped get the G-Carrier prepped.

The G-Carrier also had a locker with a half-dozen drysuits plus SCUBA gear.

OOC: Anyone with Vacc Suit, Zero-G Combat or Hunting can familiarise themselves with the SCUBA gear on hand if they wish.

Linus looks over the SCUBA gear, thinking that it looked rather fun.

Ollie heads over to Linus and joins him in looking over the SCUBA gear. He tries on the mouth pieces and goggles to see if they will fit a Vargr.

In reply to Oliver Oliphant Oksasaellllozae (msg # 132):

The regulator will fit a Vargr as long as it was held at the front of the mouth. Vargr teeth had grown smaller and less pointed as they evolved to become omnivores after being transplanted to Lair and then altered by mysterious forces in prehistoric times.

However, due to the shape of their cheeks and muzzle the goggles wouldn't fit. Vargr eyes were closer together than that of unaltered wolves and some dogs their nose was too long and the mask had to fit over that so that air could be blown in to equalise pressure.

Blake has a look too.  A bit troublesome dressing yourself in that suit ...  Otherwise, do-able.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 134):

These drysuits were a lot easier than vacc suits, and old-style wetsuits and drysuits. They were more like loose plastic zip-up pullovers. The only tough part was the tight neoprene neck ring!

Ken pitched in to help Hanno with the vehicle modifications.  When there was time he tried on both the SCUBA gear and the dry suits.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 136):

Walker looked at the drysuits and SCUBA gear.

"Do we know of any water-based predators around here,"  he asked no one in particular.

He looked for Hanno.

"Do we need water-predator weapons?  I've used speargun before.  Not my favorite, but I can use one."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 137):

Neva looked around at the suits.  "Looks a little bit like some of the vacc suits I've tried on again.  You have enough people to go underwater or do you need another?  Just put me where you need me.  It might take a little bit to get used to those suits but I could probably do it."

"Well, this Scuba gear is a good option in an emergency, but I'm not keen on getting wet," said Ollie.

Satisfied that he could use this stuff if he had to, Ollie heads over to help Hanno with the modifications. After that is done, he checks that the g-carrier is in good working order.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:09, Wed 21 Jan 2015.

Ken shook his head.  "I think the SCUBA gear is just for emergencies.  With luck we'll all stay dry.  It's sneaking into the camp by the ruined city that has me worried."  He looked about.  "When can we be ready Hanno?  We should time things to get us close to the city under cover of darkness."

Blake spends time updating the inertial locators.  He will also spend some time with Ken, Thomas & Mariel marking some likely LZ's & hiding spots for the ship.  Basically assigning code names to these & entering them into the locators (assuming we could use them as GPS units to find the spots).  Never come out the way you went in may become the escape plan.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 141):

Mariel looked at the clear, dark waters of the lake.

"You know, the deep part of this lake is sufficient to hide the ship. I could set up a repeater here at the base camp's antenna to maintain communications."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 140):

Hanno nodded his head.

"I think we could be go at any time. We should arrive just before midnight, planetary local.

"But, there could be problems if your Vargr friend uses the Scuba gear. He can breathe okay but the diving goggles won't work properly. He could use swim goggles or the like, but that would only work for up to, say, twelve metres depth."

Ken regards Mariel's suggestion.  "Go ahead and hide the ship in the lake Mariel.  It would be safer that way.  Keep a close watch on the comms though."

Shaking his head Ken reacted to the idea of Ollie in human SCUBA gear.  "We'll just make sure we stay out of the water.  With this route there should be no reason to debark underwater.  If we do, Ollie could probably rig a vacc suit helmet to work with the SCUBA gear."

He gathered his own gear.  "I say we get moving if the rest of you are ready."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 144):

"Hmmm. Yes, a Vacc Suit helmet would act like a diving helmet. You'd need to improvise a neck seal... but let's get going, I think we're ready."

In reply to Hanno Sakawa (msg # 145):

Walker set his pack and rifle down on the deck.

"Let's do this."

Ken checks his gear and then turns to the others.  "Bring your favorite weapons, a canteen of water and a couple of days of emergency rations.  Also bring your night vision gear if you have any or borrow it from the base staff."

Ollie grabs a Vacc Suit helmet and any tools he thinks he will need to jury-rig it onto the dry suits. He will try and do that job on the way over.

He calls out to Neva, "Can I borrow your SMG? I got a bit of practice with one in the old days."

He also picks out all the gear that Ken suggested.

Linus sets about making some easily portable yet more tasty than emergency rations food for the trip.

Neva grins as she hears Ollie talk about her SMG.  "Sure Ollie.  Just treat it as good as you do your tools and I don't have a problem."

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 150):

Jaxxon unloaded all Neva's gear from the ship. It was clear that weapons like the suppressed SMG and sniper rifle would come in handy! As well, she had all kinds of useful spy gear from surveillance and recording equipment to disguise kits and a lockpick set.

"Hey Ollie! I found a set of SCUBA gear fitted for a Vargr! We got SCUBA gear for everyone and kind of forgot about it."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:37, Mon 26 Jan 2015.

Ken grabbed the sniper rifle and put it in the carrier.  He wouldn't carry it but it might prove useful.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 152):

"Ken, you guys want us with the ship? Or along with you? If necessary I can man the guns while Mariel pilots. Give you some top cover. Until the Hegemony takes us out, I guess."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 152):

Mariel also offered around the case of smoke and tranq gas grenades. "Hey guys, could come in handy! Yeah, Jaxxon and I can come, or stay with the ship?"

Ken shook his head.  "I don't want to risk the ship.  It's not a warship and I'd rather not lose lives if you tangle with fighters or SAM systems.  You and Mariel should stay here with the ship and be ready to come to our aid if things go south."  He takes a pair of tranq grenades.

Looking at the party he calls out.  "Make sure everyone takes at least one smoke and one tranq grenade.  A couple if you can manage it."

"Sure thing," replied Ollie, "You're the expert at this stuff. I am but a simple merchant crewman."

OK, add a tranq grenade, cloth armor & an IR google set.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 157):

Noting that some crew didn't have filter masks, Mariel said, pointedly, "if you guys are taking tranq gas grenades, you better all have filter masks, eh? Eh? That means you, Blake, Ken, Linus, Ollie.

"Also, don't forget water in at least one, maybe two canteens. And a personal survival kit."

She thought some more. "How about night vision goggles? You all have them, right?"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:30, Sun 08 Feb 2015.

OK, filter mask & all the bullets he has.  Sounds like a shoot-out at the Qarant  main base.  The magazines are filled & a last meal before heading out.

Neva made sure she had her goggles and everything with her and nodded to Muriel.  "Thank you for mentioning that.  Yes I have those at the ready too."

Ken nodded.  "Food and water are a good idea as well as filter masks.  We may be caught in a fight or stranded.  Make sure everyone has a comm as well in case we are separated.  I'll bring rope and climbing gear in case we do end up investigating the ruins."

"Sounds good to me," added Ollie as he picked up the filter masks and canteens. "The people I used to hang out with didn't believe in nonlethal measures. I didn't know you could use filter masks with tranq grenades."

Ken shook his head.  "We tended to use more tear gas than tranq in the Marines when we did use gas.  Usually we are not trying to be sneaky but to disable an active foe.  The mask should work for both although you'll want eye protection if you were facing tear gas."

They loaded up the G-Carrier with their gear and were away.

The trip took several hours, timed to get them into the target area around 0000.

First they traveled south over the ocean, then circled around east. Heading north to where the river drained into the bay, they slipped under the water to maintain concealment.

Travelling underwater as far as they could, they exited the water and traveled overland under blackout conditions in the darkness by instruments.


They landed and hid the G-Carrier at 2km range from the Hegemony LZ and main operating base. The weather was cool with light fog and no starlight or moon. Perfect for night recce operations.

Terrain: A few hills dotted the lightly forested plain, which was cut by numerous rivers and streams. It was cool and dry, around 7 or 8 degrees C.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:54, Sun 15 Feb 2015.

Twas a dark & foggy night ...

Ken disembarked and looked around with his PRIS binoculars to make sure they were alone.  Then he checked the concealment of the APC.  "Let's head for a nearby hill and examine the base.  Then we can scout forward.  The rest of the party can follow a few hundred meters behind."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 166):

The ex-Scout helped Ken conceal the G-Carrier under a camouflage net and resh-cut branches.

"I checked the topo survey maps. We are 2 km from the Hegemony starport. There is a hill, about 200m high, in between us and the base about 1 km away. You should get a nice uninterrupted view of the complex. Such as it is. You'll need to cross a few streams and a small river."

Ollie follows a couple of hundred meters behind Ken, trying not to look ridiculous in all this gear. He makes as little noise as possible and keeps to the cover.

Linus enjoys the stroll.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 169):

Hallo stops them.

"Guys, it's just Ken and Thomas going on this little walk. The rest of us are going to wait for them to return, Yeah?

"All right then," said Linus and found somewhere to sit and enjoy the outdoors.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 166):

Walker looked at Ken.

"Is that such a good idea?"

Blake finds some sort of cover & hunkers down.  Let those who know snoop about.

Ken stopped and looked back to Thomas.  "Let's have the rest follow us as far as the hill.  We can scan the area and then you and I can move forward.  If we need assistance the others will be nearby to aid us."

Blake takes the rear - if that is the case.

Ken continued on toward the hill.  He led the group such that the hill remained between them and the base.

Neva grins as Blake takes the rear and settles into in between the two men.  She'll wait a little bit before starting out after Ken.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 174):

"If we need assistance, we'll get the whole crew dead.  This is not what I agreed to."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 178):

As they were leaving, Hanno shrugged sympathetically at Thomas, as he was obviously in agreement. He hefted his laser rifle. "Well, give me a call and I'll come in for a pickup."

Ollie tags along behind Neva.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 178):

Ken thought for a moment.  "Ok, leave the rest behind here.  They can catch up later."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 181):

"Better we get dead than the rest of them."

He put his pack on and picked up his rifle.

"Let's go."

Ken nodded and motioned the others back before heading off with Thomas.  They would approach the hill carefully and do a recon from there before moving on.

"It looks like it's the waiting game for us," Ollie whispers to himself before heading back to the vehicle. There he waits anxiously while listening to the comm.

In reply to Oliver Oliphant Oksasaellllozae (msg # 184):

Neva chuckled at Ollie's comment.  "Feel like I'm all dressed up and nowhere to go."

She went back to the vehicle with Ollie and sat down on (vs in) the vehicle.  "So I guess we guard this and keep an eye out."

Neva looks around to see if there is a better place for them to place the vehicle to hide it a bit better.

Blake keeps an eye peeled in the direction the snoopers went in.  Any kind of cover, he uses it.

Linus is content to potter around beside their vehicle, enjoying being outside on a new planet.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 187):

Hanno seemed a little put-out by Linus's casual attitude. He tried not to be too hard on the guy. It's not like you needed to be skilled at hiding or concealment on a Navy ship!

"Linus, if you're going to be outside it's good to stay close to the vehicle under the camouflage netting, but keep your head down and stay in one place. That way you won't bring attention to yourself or the G-Carrier, right?

"Blake is over there. You keep watch in that direction. I'll keep a watch to the rear." He pointed where he thought Linus could do some good.

Their G-Carrier seemed hidden well enough in some trees under a camouflage net. The ex-Scout knew his business in that regard.

Around them the night seemed still and cool, with insects buzzing quietly about. It was about 0100 local when Ken and Thomas reached their position overlooking the base, five hours before dawn.

Out on the hill, using Scout PRISS binoculars, Ken and Thomas noted multiple vehicles. There were 2 200-dton ships parked on crude landing pads, one definitely Kalamanru's private ship, the yacht Golden Dreamer. The other was a free-trader. Alongside them was a 50 dton modular cutter. On a different series of pads were four military single-rotor helicopters, a double-rotor helicopter, and two VTOL jets that could be either for reconnaissance or light combat. Ther were also various ground trucks and jeeps. None of the vehicles seemed to show signs of warmth or being turned on.

There were several prefab buildings and huts, 2 larger ones by the landing pads likely being hangars and workshops. Half a dozen more were in a cluster.

While they were surveilling the base, Ken noticed a patrol coming in from their flank. It was a dozen men, heading for the hill. Not moving cautiously, in single file along a trail, and moving at a normal pace.

Ken examined the site with his binoculars for a while, using the recording function to capture the information for later.  He pointed out first Kalamanru's ship and then the approaching patrol.  Keeping his voice down his whispered.  "Let's move closer and see if we can't get into some of the smaller huts.  That is where they'll likely have their hostages if they have any." He glanced to the flank.  "Let's move out before the patrol gets close."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 190):

Walker looked to where the patrol was moving, and nodded, without saying anything.

Seeing Thomas' agreement, Ken policed the area carefully and then headed off toward the main grouping of huts.  He chose a path that would give them as much cover as possible from both the hill and the base.

The patrol actually looked like it was heading for the hill. Likely to set up some knd of watching post.

Making their way through the undergrowth and sparse clumps of evergreen type trees, Ken and Thomas made it to the perimeter of the base. The trees had been cleared away as well as the waist-high bushes. There was a chain-link fence and regular spotlights, but these seemed intended to more keep away wildlife than determined intruders. They could see a few places where the lights didn't quite overlap and at least one drainage ditch where the light didn't penetrate.

Ken looked about and then pointed to the ditch.  "Let's see if we can get into the perimeter that way.  What do you think Thomas?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 194):

"Looks like the best way.  Assuming it's not mined." Thomas whispered back.

"You want to go through first, and I can cover you?  Then if we get surprised, I can shoot out lights and kill whomever is looking at you?"

Ken shook his head and shrugged in the darkness.  "If it's mined we're screwed and certainly dead.  Still, they might do so.  They certainly have enough security around the place fora  military base.  I'll watch for trip wires and such."  He started forward, confident of Thomas' sniping ability.  Ken moved carefully, looking for trip wires.

There was a heavy metal grating set in concrete where the ditch went under the fence.

After some thorough checking, they determined there were no tripwires, alarms or mines. The concern seemed to be more about animals and not human infiltration.

Ken shook his head... "Wire cutters..."

Blake has a quiet look at his watch, does a quiet sigh ...  Waiting is a bitch, but then, he's not one of those sneaky types either.  And goes back to watching his section of the perimeter.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 198):

They had brought a set of wire cutters, so cutting the fence wouldn't be a problem.

Fishing about in his pack, Ken remembered the wire cutters and proceeded to cut a small hole in the fence near the ditch.  He was careful to cut it so that it could be folded back up in place in order to fool a less careful observer that the fence was intact.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 201):

The two men made it onto the base undetected.

In front of them were the two large hangar buildings. Off to the right were what was probably the HQ buildings. To the left was the motor pool and barracks. Beyond the hangars were the landing pads with the parked spacecraft and helicopters. Beyond that was an airstrip for fixed-wing aircraft.

Ken looked about and then pointed toward the HQ buildings.  If anything was to be discovered it was likely to be there.  For a moment he wished he had a platoon of commandos from the Marines to go down and sabotage the aircraft.

"Let's go toward the HQ Thomas," he whispered.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 203):

Walker took out the binoculars, and watched the HQ.  He also looked around at the other buildings.

"You think he's there?"

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 204):

There were no lights on in the HQ or the barracks. The only light was probably from a security office at the main gate.

Using their NVGs they could see a pair of sentries hundreds of meters away across the concrete landing strip, moseying along heading away from them.

It was cold out now. There was no moon but the stars shone brilliantly overhead in unfamiliar constellations.

Thermal indicated there was probably a heat source in the HQ building. They couldn't tell if it was a person or how many, but the building likely wouldn't have been kept heated if there wasn't someone inside.

Ken stowed the binoculars away and turned to Thomas.  "I'd say that the HQ is the most likely spot to keep a prisoner.  It's at least the first place to start."  With a sigh he started the careful move toward the HQ building.  "There is a heat source there so someone or something is in there."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 206):

"Right.  OK, let's do it."

Quietly, the pair stole across the open areas, from shadow to shadow between the pools of light. A generator chugged away, electric lights hummed as insects swirled around them in the cool night.

They made it to the HQ apparently unseen. There was no alarm raised or patrol reaction.

Searching the HQ building, they found offices and storerooms. There were washrooms and a shower room, plus a small canteen. In the rear they opened a door into a corridor that had a row of closed doors. A soldier was sleeping in a chair outside one of the middle ones. A carbine was propped on the wall beside him. He was dressed in a grey-green uniform with a forage cap and various patches and rank insignia.

Ken caught Thomas' eyes and then motioned toward the sleeping soldier.  "Cover him while I try opening the door," he whispered.  "Let's see if we can get through the door he's guarding without waking him.  If he does, we'll tie him up and leave him behind us."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:30, Sat 04 Apr 2015.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 209):

Walker nodded and pulled his rifle into his shoulder, seating a firm stance.  If he pulled the trigger, they were screwed, but if this guy wakes up, they're screwed, too.

Ken approached the door, trying to avoid waking the man.

Make a Stealth check. 7+. Post results in terms of an "action" post.

Ken moved forward slowly as he tried to open the door without waking the guard.  He was ready to jump the guy and suppress any shout or alarm should the man stir from his sleep.  Hopefully he would be surprised enough to allow Ken to get the jump on him before he could do much.

OOC:
Not sure if I get a bonus for tactics although that would still fail.
21:08, Today: Ken Jenkins rolled 5 using 2d6 with rolls of 2,3. Stealth.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:11, Sat 11 Apr 2015.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 212):

The door to the probable cell was locked. Unfortunately, the sound of Ken trying the knob woke the dozing guard.

"What the? Who are you" he exclaimed as he stood up and went for his weapon, the carbine leaning on the wall beside him. Pulling back the bolt to chamber a round, he intended to shoot one or both intruders!

OOC: Post combat actions. Technically, all combat is simultaneous so I will decide actions after they are all posted.

The moment the guard stirred Ken jumped him to prevent him from shooting or sounding an alarm.

OOC: If Thomas is close enough I'll assume he could attempt to butt stroke the guard.  That would play into Ken's response.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 214):

Ken held the man, struggling over the carbine, as Thomas clubbed him with the butt of his rifle. The man's eyes rolled into his head and he slumped to the floor.

GM Note: Thomas does 6 damage with his "cudgel", applied (randomly) to the guard's strength of 6. He receives a Light Wound, rendering him temporarily unconscious.

In reply to GM (msg # 215):

Walker mouths "Oops." at Ken, making no noise.

He returns his rifle to a more useful position, for a rifle.

Ken gives Thomas a thumbs up as he clubs the guard.  He kneels down and ties the man up and stuffs a rag or his socks or whatever into his mouth.  Once the man is secure he searches him for communicators, keys or anything else of interest.  "Good work Thomas," he whispers, "we'll need to hide the guy for now."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 217):

He possessed a "radio" with which to communicate. The guard also had a key ring and some military ID. The uniform looked like it would fit Ken.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 217):

Walker nods, and covers the area while Ken secures the guard.

Ken pockets the key and the ID and then with a glance at Thomas smiles.  "Might as well put on the uniform.  It'll help if we have to bluff our way out."  He donned the uniform quickly and after checking the name he was assumed to have, went over to the door to see if it was locked.  "Let's see what he was guarding."

The key unlocked the door that the sentry had been guarding.

Inside was a man, sleeping. Once woken up he looked like the missing scout, Dumaer!

Ken carefully kept a hand over the sleeping man's mouth so that he wouldn't cry out when woken.  "Dumaer, we're here to get you out.  Keep quiet for now and tell us what happened to you and what they are up to here."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 222):

Walker backed into the doorway, keeping an eye out for wandering bad guys who need to take a leak in the middle of the night.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 223):

Figuring he didn't have much to lose, Dumaer replied, "They've been holding me here since they brought from Alzenei. Kalamanru and his men. They think this city is the ancestral home of the Sky Raiders. They kept asking me about this piece I picked up here on this planet when I did the preliminary survey for the Hegemony. There is some kind of inscription on the back of it that they think is really important.

"A couple days ago everything changed. Kalamanaru Jumped back in-system with this guy they wanted me to talk to, someone I remember working at the Institute on Alzenei. A scientist and translator. Archaeologist I think? Don't know his name, looked to be from Daesekhe to me. Anyways he started translating the plate I found, they want to go over his findings with me in the morning.

"Kalamanaru is here at the dig command post, nearer the ruins. He's got all the files about the artefact I found there, as well as translations."

The new arrival of Kalamanaru would fit with his using the yacht starship Golden Dreamer to transport himself, Lorain's treacherous assistant Lokhav and Lokhav's notes on the translation of the half of the breastplate they'd found. Not to mention all Lorain's files on the Sky Raiders. With all those pieces in the same place it didn't seem out of the question they would search in a new more likely direction. It was only a matter of time before they found what they were looking for.

Ken frowned as they listened to Dumaer.  "We can't let Kalamanaru get the final information on the Sky Raiders.  If this is really their home then all the information he needs is right here to get their treasure.  With that money he can fund the Hegemony's war against the League as well as do just about anything else he wants."  He thought for a moment and then nodded to himself.  "Thomas, are you game to head to the HQ?  What about you Dumaer?  You can't stay here.  Do you want to come with us or try to make your way back to where our folks are waiting?  It's probably better to all stay together."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 225):

"That's probably true. He makes a lot of money running illegal enterprises using the Hegemony as a base. It's in his interest to support them as their expansion benefits him in return. Plus, money buys a lot of power in a corrupt regime like the Hegemony.

"Plus... I think he's just obsessed about the Sky Raiders!"

He looked at the door. "Yeah, let's get going. If we want to raid Kalamanaru's files I know where they are kept. The HQ is about eight klicks away on the other side of the ruins."

Meanwhile, at the hidden Grav APC, the rest of the groups waited for the others to return. As well, they hoped no one discovered them. The night was cool and quiet, sky lit with clouds of stars but no moon.

Linus was sprawled happily on his back, looking up at the stars. At times like this it was difficult to realise that he spent a lot of time out there amongst them. His mind wandered, recalling the many planets he had visited during his Navy hitch and since...

... and eventually he drifted off to sleep.

Ken says nothing, but nods once.

[OOC:  Job hunting, fire and ambulance calls, and parental units keeping me away from kb as much as when I'm working.  Sorry.]

As he listened and spoke, Ken worked to equip the ex-Scout and tie up the guard.  "If the real treasure is anything like what we found on Miryan then I can see why Kalamanaru's after the Sky Raiders."  Ken shook his head.  "He'd destroy everything and anything of historical value in the looting.  That would be reason enough to thwart him."

Ken handed Dumaer a weapon from the guard and tied the guy up in the cell.  Turning to Thomas he motioned to the door. "Let's get going to the HQ."

Within an hour, the three had safely made their way back to the Grav PC. No alarm seemed to have been raised.

Once at the vehicle, With Hanno's help they got the camo net stowed in a few minutes.

After a fifteen minute flight, they transited from the Port (SE corner of map) to the area of the HQ (NW corner).

Hanno again hit the craft in a wooded hollow between two small hills above the command post. Under the camo netting they were almost invisible except by ground observation.

Lorrain spent a few minutes in deep conversation with Dumaer.

"OK. I need to go to the command post. With what Dumaer's told me I think I can find what we need and be out in minutes. Who's coming with me?"

I fly starships, crawling around is not my what I am good at.  So guard duty again.

Ken stepped forward.  "I'll go with you Lorain.  Hopefully Thomas will come along with us as well."

"I don't mind - I can come if you like or stay here," said Linus, who was now wide awake after his nap.

"Where do you want me?" Ollie said, "You're the experts at this sort of business. I'll do what I'm told."

Ken thought about the situation for a while.  "It would be best to go in with the minimum of people.  We can take Thomas, Lorain and I.  It should be a quick in and out raid on the HQ for the papers we need.  Regardless, we need to get this taken care of before the guard we attack is found and the alarm raised."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 237):

Thomas, Lorain and Ken left the Grav PC to try and infiltrate Kalamanaru's HQ camp.

Their vehicle was hidden on the hillside above the valley, and they could see the camp below about 400m away.

Lorain stumbled a little as they made their way down the hillside.

"I'm not used to moving while using these night-vision goggles! You get no depth perception in 'em. As well, I didn't feel right using a gun. I do have stun-spay!"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 234):

"I'm in."

Ken considered the mission and turned to the others.  "Blake, Neva, you both should be ideal for this type of covert infiltration.  We can use someone that can hack into a computer or admin system to find the data we need.  Lorain knows a lot but having a pro or two along would be a good idea."  He thought further.  "Neva, you have some suppressed weapons right?  Can you spread them around the group so we all have silenced firepower?"

When Lorain stumbled Ken reached out and caught her arm.  "Careful there Lorain, we'll take it slowly so that no one gets hurt."  He glanced at her and nodded. "Just hang on to the stun spray Lorain.  We could have used it back there in the barracks to take out that guard."

Neva tried to hide her smile when Ken asked about her loaning out suppression firepower.  "I'll come with you guys but I can an extra gun or two that I could loan out."

Neva thought for a moment as she mentally ran through her list of equipment.  "Hmm.  From the last safe house I only have available right now the SMG, the sniper rifle, the auto pistol and the body pistol.  All have suppression.  Thomas?  You want the sniper rifle to set and cover?  I can always use the auto pistol."

Whatever is left ... and makes sure the safety is on.

Ken thought.  "Thanks Neva.  Definitely have Thomas use the sniper rifle.  He's our best shot.  If you want to keep the SMG Neva I'll take one of the pistols."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 244):

Neva had to agree that Thomas was their best shot.  She was so out of practice you'd think she hadn't fired a gun before.  Of course with this group she might be a crack shot by the time she returned.

"Thomas you get the sniper then.  As for the SMG, it depends Ken on what else you want me to do.  If I'just going to be guarding then yeah the SMG would be good.  More shots before load and all of that.  If you want me to try and something else like locks or whatever then the pistols are better since they are smaller and will give me more room to maneouver."

Ken nodded.  "That makes good sense Neva.  I'll probably be doing more fire support things so it would be best for you to keep a pistol and I'll take the SMG."

The small group (Ken, Thomas, Lorain, Neva and Blake) quietly made their way to the HQ while Hanno, Linus and Dumaer waited at the laager on the hillside above where the Grav APC was hidden.

The infiltrators made it safely to the perimeter of the HQ. It was on a little hill overlooking the digs along the riverbank. There was a 1-story building with two sheds on one side and a helipad on the other. Encircling the encampment was a chainlink fence topped with razor wire. There was a gate and road on the far side of the hill with a guardhouse. There was also a military communications van covered in anetnnae parked in the yard, along with a generator trailer chugging away. (Both are at the rear of the building, the direction you are approaching from, the generator is hooked up to the building and communications van.) A jeep was parked in front.

Dumaer had remembered where Kalamanaru's office was located and they knew they could use a rear door to reach it. Aside from the 2 gate guards there were another 2 signals personnel in the communications van and 2 more sentries in a guard room at the front of the building.

Are the guards busy looking or kicked back and relaxed ??  Blake moves to one side, providing rear and flank security watch.

Ken watches for a moment as well, scanning the area with his PRIS binoculars from whatever cover was available.  Keeping his voice low he spoke to the others.  "I say we approach from the rear, cut the wire and enter through the back door.  Our best bet is to keep things quiet and search the offices.  It's too risky trying to take out the guards although we need to be prepared to use the silenced weapons if necessary."

The guards in the gatehouse seem to be barely awake. Those in the communications van are likewise. One of them came out to have a cigarette and look at the stars, moving slowly and lethargically. Then climbed back inside the van.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 249):

"I got no problems with that.  What's closest to our objective?"

Neva just nodded at Ken's proposal.  She didn't need to talk.  She was already getting into her silent phase as some of her past partners used to call it.  If silence was called for she wouldn't have the finger point at her if it was broken.  Besides it was hard to bypass some traps if there was too much noise.

The HQ building was shaped like a Quonset hut. There were two rear vehicle doors visible from their position at the back of the fence.


This message was lightly edited by the GM at 23:22, Sun 07 June 2015.

In reply to GM (msg # 253):

Walker looked over the objectives.

"You too go in, I stay here and deal with problems out here? he asked, quietly.  "I'm less useful in confined spaces, and I can take the time to sort out these folks if things get dicey."

Neva nodded and motioned for Ken to go with her to investigate.  She had her gun out just in case she needed it but would put it away if she had to bypass any security measures.  Which approach you want to take Ken?  Left, right?  try to sneak to the side first and then listen?  You seem to be calling the shots on this mission."  She was perfectly fine with his calling the shots.  She trusted Walker to back them up and so far Ken hadn't done anything stupid.

Blake carefully feels about making sure weapons, grenades, magazines and such are where they should be.

The rear door was at the back on the left, as Dumaer had described it. They could see no out outside now as the night had gotten very cold.

Lorain shivered, bundling herself in her jacket.

"Are we going to cut through the fence, climb over or try to sneak through the gate?"

Ken watched as the tech came out of the van and took a smoke and then considered the situation.  "Thomas, keep an eye on the guards and the techs in the van.  Warn us of any movement and cover our exit if things go pear shaped."  He looked at Neva and Blake.  "We'll cut the wire and go into the back door.  Neva, you and Blake lead and Lorain and I will follow you in.  I want Lorain to see what is in there and decide what is important.  Got it?"

He moved forward and carefully cut the wire to prepare the way for Blake and Neva to lead,

The infiltrators made it across the gravel lot to the building silent as ghosts. Everything glowed green monochrome in the nightvision goggles. When they got to the side door, Neva found it locked.

Neva rolled her eyes.  For once couldn't somebody leave something unlocked?  Of course she knew the answer to that so she didn't say anything.  She looked at the lock, trusting in the others to keep a look out.

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 261):

The lock looked easy enough to pick. It was mechanical, not high-security.

Neva got out her tools and set to trying to open the lock.  Picking it sounded so illegal so she preferred to just say open.

Blake puts his back to the building, silenced gun in both hands and scans the area, left/right, up/down.  He runs the guard scene thru his head, did they have any body armor on ??

Ken crouches against the wall on the other side of the door from Blake while Neva picks the lock.  He kept his eyes and ears alert for signs of guards or such.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 264):

Lorrain stayed behind Blake.

The guards looked like they were dressed in cloth armour.

From where he was staying on overwatch at the rear of the compound, Thomas couldn't see anyone moving throughout the area.

The lock clicked under Neva's lockpicks and tension cam in less than a minute. Someone had oiled the hinges because it swung back into a darkened corridor without sound.

Kalamanaru's office was down the corridor, on the right,
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:00, Tue 16 June 2015.

In reply to GM (msg # 267):

Before proceeding in, Neva stored her equipment again and motioned for the others to proceed in.  She pulled out her weapon again and followed, carefully closing the door after the last person came in.

Blake would probably be the last person in, after nudging the prof in.  Any obvious wires/cables running from the door ??  Security cameras ??

Ken glanced back to make sure Lorain was following and then moved in behind Neva.

It did not look like the door had a security system. Neva checked for motion sensor or beam alarms and did not find any either. Not surprisingly the sheer remoteness of the dig site served to make Kalamanru and his Deasekhe allies overconfident.

Once Neva checked the door, they entered Kalamanru's office. By flashlight they quickly found the materials and maps Lorain needed.

In reply to GM (msg # 271):

Doing one last check-aroud, Lorain whispered, "ok. I think I have what I need. Let's go?"

In reply to Prof. Lorain Messandi (msg # 272):

Neva nodded at Lorain and motioned for people to go out.  "Try to keep things in order like when we came in.  Blake, you want to go first and check that it is clear for us to leave?  I'll go last and lock up again."

Blake nods, but privately wonders if this was tooooo easy, toooo convient.  He takes a quick look out the door, then moves along, eyeballs constantly roaming.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 274):

Walker checked the targets on the field, looking for anyone doing anything odd.

Ken nodded; "Good work everyone.  Definitely hide the evidence that we entered Neva.  We'll head back to the vehicle now."  He followed Blake out, keeping an eye on Lorain as well as potential threats.

Outside, Walker scanned the area. There was no one on site, no activity was visible.

Inside, Blake checked out the door and then exited. Walker picked them up without much problem in the dim starlight, although it would have helped if his rifle was equipped with a starlight or thermal scope.

The borrowed night-vision and the PRIS viewers confirmed there was no one else out there in the cool night. Carefully, they made their way back up to where the Grav APC was hidden in the foothills without incident.

OK, lets get the frak off of Qarant.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 278):

Neva nodded to Blake but didn't answer.  She still kept her eyes out after she locked up again and had made sure it looked like it did when she entered.  She was ready to get off this planet and look the stuff they got also.

Hanno laughed as he powered up the Grav APC.

"What the fuck does "Frak" mean?"

"Back to your ship?"

In reply to Hanno Sakawa (msg # 280):

Arriving safely back at the vehicle, Lorain plugged in her portable computer and began scanning the data.

"Let's get somewhere safe. But we can't leave Qarant just yet. There's something here, I think, something Kalamanaru is looking for."

Ken nodded as Lorain spoke.  "She's right.  That bastard is here for something.  We need to beat him to it." He turned to Lorain.  "Can you decipher whatever it is he's looking for Lorain?  We may have a few hours before all of this is discovered."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 282):

Strapped in, Lorrain was already studying the tablet that Dumaer had found and Kalamanaru had stolen.

"Hanno, take us a kilometre east. No, wait, west. We can hide there for a short time and I can try and study this."

In reply to Prof. Lorain Messandi (msg # 283):

The freed scout was also strapping in.

"I really thank you for saving me, I do. But I'd like to get off this planet as soon as possible! Messing further with a man like Kalamanru is likely to get you hurt or killed. I got no wish to meet him or his goons Gildinkur and Pylory. Plus, I got a girl to get back to... if she waited for me. Don't know why she would, if she thinks I'm dead."

Margyl was the name of his girlfriend back on Alzenei. And the names of Gildinkur and Pylory definitely rang some bells. Gildinkur had been tasked by Kalamanaru to kidnap Lorain on Alzenei, While Bren Pylory was Kalamamaru's right hand man and was in charge of security back on Mirayn.

In reply to Prof. Lorain Messandi (msg # 283):

"Everyone strap in! Standby for liftoff. Lorain, I think five klicks are a better idea. Maybe ten!"

"Did you find what you were after?" asked Linus.

Back in the broom closet again ...  Don't know how those army boys live like this for days without end ...

Neva strapped in and wondered if they EVER find what they were out for.  She looked over at Blake quietly said "Too easy in one place usually means harder in the next."

I like your logic Neva. Blake tightens the restraints.  He glances over at Dumaer, So how did a scout like you end up here ??  Prospecting for relics ??

Just to be sure, Hanno flew them more like ten km west just to be sure! They travelled at nape-of-earth, a combat technique where an aircraft hugged the contours of the terrain to avoid being seen or picked up on radar.

This kind of "spam in a can" travel was a little different for Blake. Typically, Scouts used grav bikes or special G-Carriers that were more comfortable and had better sensors.

While they were in transit, Dumaer answered Blake. "In a manner of speaking. I got that plate thing along with the other pience from a the ruins there about a year and a half ago, along with other artefacts. That was when I was under contract to survey this system in advance of setting up archaeological digs here.

"The breastplate pieces were the best preserved of the lot. I sold one to settle a considerable bar tab over on Nomael. I kept the other part. The other junk I sold to Kalamanaru about a year ago as I knew he was on the looking on the black market for possible Sky Raider pieces. When I got back to Alzenei I tried to sell him my remaining piece and he sent his goons to take it, and kidnap me. And here I am.

"By the way, Kalamanaru was very pissed that Gildinkur's crew wasn't able to get either Lorain or the other piece of the breastplate. I think he heard it via Hegemony diplomatic courier that Jumped in-system yesterday."

Any other Hegemony news to pass along ??  Sooner or later they will drift into the usual scout topics, ship-board stills, filter changing schedules, basic, flight characteristics of IISS ships and eventually, ... the navy ...  A subject near and dear to all scouts.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 292):

Walker strapped in and rubbed his face.

"Good job, guys."

Lorain was unable to answer Linus until they were hidden a ways away and she could study the materials. She booted up her portable workstation and loaded Kalamanaru's information.

"I think we found it, yes. We got the missing piece from Dumaer's breastplate set. Plus survey maps and other documents. Too bad we didn't destroy what was there so they can't make further use of it but all that would have done would have been to raise the alarm and it's likely Kalamanaru keeps backup records.

"Looking at this breastplate and using Lokhav's notes think I can give a preliminary translation:

"...stopped at last beside the waters... ...the banks of the river and
ended their (journey?). There in the depths of the (Temple?) of the Firstcomers...
the ships of the Long Journey... awaits their return to... ...and the ancient
treasures of..."

"There it ends. Honestly, I don't know what to make of it. Can anyone make out what this is supposed to mean? Here is the translation inscription from the other breastplate piece supplied by Professor Laskan."

"...(word not certain)... and here between the banks of.... (river?)
Came the Far Wanderers... in their flight - War of the (lost ones?).
Landed they the (Ship?) of the (journey?). On the isle stands their temple;
There where first the voyagers from the (Great Void?) stepped upon the
new land. And from the (chaos?) they came, the first-comers, the way-
farers, seeking refuge from the struggle in the (Skies?)"

Hmmm, sounds like the water and rivers have changed their course over the millennia.  What would temples be made of locally ??  Stone ??  Which implies a quarry and nearby flat land to build on ...  Dumaer, you've been here the longest ??  Now where did that map go ...

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 295):

Clearly just wanting to get out of there Dumaer grudgingly replied, "I have not long enough to see how the waterways have changed over the last few thousand years. But yeah, Kalamanaru did order air recce with ground-penetrating radar and thermal. Which is what you'd do if you were looking for an old water channel."

"Here is the map," Lorain said as she pulled up the file on her comp. The 3D holo display flickered to life.

"Hmmm," mutters Ollie, "I may just be simple merchantman, but I think I can see the old river on the map."

Ollie draws a claw along the eastern side of the ruins. "Here you can see the river ran with the city built along its banks. It ran in the blanks between the ruins."

"And there might be the island they were talking about!" says Ollie letting the tip of his claw rest upon the dome.

"I could be wrong. I am but a simple merchantman."

Ollie, you may have missed your calling in life ...

Ken laughed and clapped Ollie on the back.  "You're right!"  He traced the clear area on the map.  That is exactly the path of the river.  And that dome there is on an island.  Let's go ahead and head there now."

If we park on the far side of the dome, we might escape a lot of their scanning gear.  Only a matter of time before some one else figures it out though.

Ken nods in agreement.  "Good idea Blake.  There might even be a bit of depression in the old river bed that would hide us even further."

In reply to Oliver Oliphant Oksasaellllozae (msg # 298):

"Wow, Ollie! I really think you have something there!"

She examined the map, becoming more excited as she thought over what the Vargr said. "Yes... it all fits. An island in a river that is no longer there. That dome is as good a place to start as any. Well done!

"OK, let's head for that dome. Ken, what is the best approach? Have Hanno stay with the G-carrier up top while we explore the substructure? I don't know, this kind of covert exploration is not my forte!"

Ken thought things through.  "We definitely want Hanno to stay with the G carrier.  If bad guys approach he can warn us and bug out.  That will let us evade and rendezvous with him.  Otherwise we're stuck here if the carrier is captured while we are below.  The rest of us should head into the ruins."  He looked to the others.  "Anyone else have any suggestions?  There are other ways to do this."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 304):

The freed scout sighed.

"I certainly want to stay with the G-Carrier. Not much of a choice, really?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 304):

"If that's the plan, let's do it. I think with Laskan's translation protocols and Kalamanaru's notes I can get us into the "Temple of the Firstcomers" as it's named. There is some kind of chamber in the bottom."

In reply to Prof. Lorain Messandi (msg # 306):

Hanno began strapping himself in. "Unless someone has an alternate plan, I'm taking off in ten seconds. Better buckle up."

Neva had learned that when somebody says to strap in, you don't question them too long or else you might find yourself looking up at them from your back.  She strapped in and looked over at Blake.  "I think our next round is about to start.  According to law of averages, this one will be dicier."

Neva, ever the bearer of good news ...

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 309):

Neva had to chuckle at Blake's comment.  "yeah, well there was a period that was how I lived my life.  All dark and gloomy.  Until recently I thought I was stuck in that.  The shade of it is still there sometimes and sometimes certain situations just remind me of it.  I should tell you that I'm terrible at gambling so what would I know about law of averages anyway."

Neva turned her head and smiled at Blake.

Blake straps in and gives a thumbs-up to Neva and Hanno.  Gonna be a long night ...

Ken chuckles at the reponses of his friends as he buckles up.  "If you want to stay behind with the G carrier when we head into the temple you are welcome to do so Dumaer.  You've been through enough."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 312):

The ex-Scout looked conflicted.

"I don't know. If Kalamanaru discovers the G-Carrier, then his Daesekhe dogs have supersonic aircraft that can run it down. If not those, then at the least his ship is fast enough. It might be safer to come with you. Or park the G-Carrier a ways off."

Ken considered.  "Park the carrier a ways off, there should be ruins in which to hide it.  You can stay to pilot it.  If we do need to make a run for it we can at least head for the ocean or the deep river."

Professor Messandi, do you have recording gear ??  we may not be able to carry any discoveries out of here.

"Yes, that's a good point."

She started packing up the remote sensors for her portable data system. "These sensors have very fine resolution but can't be used in real time." When she was done, there was basically a small backpack's worth.

Ken hefted the pack.  "I'll take the gear Lorain.  We'll want you free to examine the ruins as we go."  He looked around to the others.  "So we'll land, disembark and head into the ruins while the g carrier is hidden nearby.  We'll have to try and keep our tracks concealed so that there is no evidence we are inside if possible."

"Would you prefer I carry it, Ken? You are better in a fight... I'd probably just be running away!" said Linus.

Ken considered for a moment and then nodded, handing the pack to Linus.  "Yes, if you don't mind Linus."

"No worries," said Linus, taking the pack and putting it on.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 320):

Walker listened to the plan.

"You want me on point, or sweep?  If I'm on sweep, I can clean up after us."

"I'll take point Thomas.  We need your skills at hiding our trail the most."  Ken hefted his weapons and pack and headed out of the vehicle.

Ollie picked up his gear and followed after Ken. "This should be more interesting than the our last outing but I hope it doesn't get too exciting. Maybe we can pick up some trinkets."

Blake will go somewhere in the middle.  Another scouting 'romp'.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 324):

Neva looked around at the group to determine where she should be.  "I'll be closer in the front then to back you up Ken."

Ken nodded to Neva.  "You've got quick eyes Neva, I can use your help." He waved Ollie forward as well.  "Everyone film what we see if you've got the equipment.  We'll need as much data as possible to prove what we've done as well as support Lorain's work.  If you see anything interesting Ollie, snag it for sure."