The local watering hole where locals and visitors set down have a pint or ten, and eat well. This is a Valkiir establishment so food is plentiful and cheep. The drink flows like water. And there aren't any rules except have fun, and pay for what you break.

T'risa sat in a secluded alcove, smiling to herself as she watched the bar patrons. Comingled sentients at peace. It felt good to destress after the events of the recent past and, at least in this place, it was somewhere she was unlikely to be recognised. That, or at least the Valkiir running the place was discrete. She idly wondered how many of the patrons would be called up to serve in the war...not that this place didn't have it's own troubles...which was one of the reasons why she was here. She wondered if her job title should be CASAR troubleshooter, instead of Colonial Marshal.

She ordered a replacement glass of wine, before looking at the menu. She smiled as she saw a delicacy she'd enjoyed when she'd spent six months recovering for her wounds at M'Kira's home. Deciding that she'd like to taste it again, she ordered a helping of the stew as a reminder of those times.

She looked at her personal assistant wondering how long it might be until the others arrived, knowing that some friends would need to be left behind to oversee the refit of their dreadnought and the building of the shipyards she'd commissioned, yet feeling a little lost without the presence of those she'd grown to love.

Sighing heavily, T'risa sipped once more at the glass, waiting for news from home and beyond.

Kendrick stepped quietly into the establishment, he stood there, a caucasian male, wearing his usual attire of black slacks and dress shirt with a dark grey jacket.  Standing about 5'11 with grey hair and glasses you could tell by the way he carried himself that he was a professional.

He walked over the the bar casually, his blue eyes darting about the establishment gauging everyone there.  Not recognizing anyone he proceeded with ordering a glass of bourbon and even going as far as to have the bartender leave the bottle.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:56, Wed 09 Sept 2015.

Lynn sat at a table alone, several empty darkened cups in front of her. Her overalls were stained and various tools and parts poked out of various pockets and straps. She looked down at the cup in font of her and sighed.

"You've got yourself in it this time, girl."

She swirled the drink a bit with a finger.

"You were told that motuth of yours was going to get you in trouble, and now you're stuck with no work, no ship, and you're going to get fat drinking this much chocolate milk."

She suddenly smiled, and giggled to herself.

"But he did look like a pufferfish."

Elsbeth pushed open the doors to the Hammer and Sword and stood in the doorway for a moment, scanning the patrons.  She was a tall and quite thin Tae woman with her pale skin silhouetted against the back-lighting of the door.  The effect made the darker, colored tattooes on her forearms and neck shimmer slightly in the back-light glow.  Letting her eyes acclimate to the contrasting dark of the bar, the lanky Marine spotted her commanding officer, the Colonial Marshal, in a rather secluded spot towards the back of the main room.

The dark-haired CMC Marine pushed into the bar proper, letting the door swing shut behind her.  When she moved, Elsbeth wasn't ungainly, but there was something unsettlingly predatory about her gait.  It wasn't unnatural per se, but was perhaps not common in a biped.  She pirouetted, dodging one or two of the waitstaff along the way, before coming to a stop standing 'at ease' in front of T'risa's table.  "Ma'am." she addressed the Marshal formally and yet informally, her tone containing just a touch of casualness and familiarity that came from what could only be from a few years and more than a few misadventures of shared history.

Strapped to her hip was a wide leather belt with two weapons: a long, thin blade (at least presumably from sheathe) that had a handle and pommel of distinct Valkiir design was strapped to her left side, positioned to be cross-drawn quickly and easily; and a plasma pistol with custom grips and extensive optic sat holstered on her right thigh.  Like her greeting, the young woman's stance was both ready and casual; while her hands seemed to be lightly clasped behind her 'at ease', her line suggested a coiled spring ready for action should it be immediately required.  She didn't expect trouble, really.  But if any time spent with the Valkiir on vacation at various points had taught her:  Trouble™ seemed to come to them.

And that went doubly so, when it came to the Marshal.  Elsbeth knew that the beautiful, blue-skinned battle witch had a knack for sniffing out such dangerous situations - a trait which made her (and thus those around her) a ready target, sometimes.  But, she knew that the Marshal had always cared about her people unfailingly; so, the lanky Praetorian never doubted the Marshal in word or deed.  Elsbeth, who had been charged with helping to bodyguard T'risa, had learned to always remain alert and to be ready to back any move the Marshal deigned to make.

"Friend Balkiir" the nearly two-metre tall Tae woman reported dutifully, "is parking the vehicle out back.  We came as soon as we received your call."  She moved to reset her long, dark ponytail, which was slightly loose, indicating that she and Balkiir were probably already in the car when T'risa's summons came; though their location at the time might have been a bit out of the way - which would have explained the slight lag in response time.  Given that both Elsbeth and Balkiir had extensive Marine training, they both seemed to take their work and play seriously; and the young Praetorian's demeanor showed it.  Even - or perhaps especially - when she was deferring to the diminutive O'meadan marshal.

Balkiir Strolled in, the door barely large enough to allow his bulk in without twisting or turning. The Colonial Marine Tee-shirt , The logo of a cartoon bull-dog with a cigar clamped in it's mouth, and an old style wide brim hat blazoned on the back. The standard issue fatigue pants were worn, and fit the man with a comfortable well worn look that made the outfit seem like it belonged on the man.

The man wore a massive revolver, and wide bladed combat blade the length of his forearm on the other hip. The two weapons were identical to the ones worn by the only three other Valkiir males in the room. The Valkiir women n the room either simply shot him a nod and a glance, other women seemed interested and shifted making themselves more noticeable until a friend nudged them and motioned to Elspeth and shook their heads in a warning gesture.


"Beer, keep it coming, and don't forget the food!" he shouted, over the din. His voice barely rising to carry over the hubbub of the tavern." and somebody wake up that juke box. "

"Elspeth,"His tone posture, and demeanor that of a man who was comfortable in his surroundings and not at all concerned with who was watching or listening. he walked over put a hand on Elspeths shoulder and then smiled as he slid in beside her. with a nod to T'risa he smiled and referred to her by the rank she had been given after the dust up that made their name."Major, how was the meeting with the contractors."

T'risa smile broke into one of genuine amusement and happiness "Hmm. You know...I'm sure I mentioned the word discreet in my message somewhere." Her words were filled with warmth. "but that....is besides the point. It is good to see you both, and may I say while I missed you both, your time away in rest and relaxation seems to have done you both good."

She looked over to the bartender giving him a nod to indicate that whatever the two ordered should be on her bill. "Well, things are in a sorry state in this neighbourhood and once more, we've arrived here with little information to go on. I would say this is a normal state of affairs, but on this occasion not everyone on the planet is out to kill us, so...all in all rather positive I think."

T'risa rose from the table to give each of her friends a warm hug. "CASAR hasn't officially given us any word yet, but reading between the lines...they must be concerned." she didn't say it because she didn't need to, it must be bad if they were brought into the area. "Any news? I only arrived around six hours ago and haven't had the time to catch up on everything happening locally."

Continues sitting at the bar with his drink in hand, he looks about the pub watching the patrons as they come and go.  He takes a particular interest in the Valkiir Marines seated not that far away.  A smile crosses his lips as he thinks about his own time in the service of the Marines.  Seems like too many years since he had the privilege of wearing the uniform.

He raises the bourbon to lips taking another drink.  He was surprised that this place had his favorite drink, not so surprised at the price for the bottle, but things like that didn't concern him.

Listening quietly from his seat he catches the groups talk about CASAR not giving them any word yet.  He thinks about the name for a bit trying to remember anything that might shed some light on what they are talking about.

He takes yet another drink before leaning back in his chair closing his eyes and focusing more closely on their conversation.

"I was being discrete." Balkiir chuckled, grinning in a relaxd, unworried way.." Ya might notice ain't no way I'm strolling in here without getting noticed....That crew over there is eyeing me up like hungry wolves......If I walked in here all "secret squirrel" they'd know I was up to something....so order some drinks, some food, kick back, and chat with a couple of pretty ladies..."


Reckon it's the raids in the area...or the Q'sa getting antsy across the border...either way they may want some folks with a bit of experience handling them on this side of the frontier.Balkiir sat forward a bit as he talked, looking a bit more serious. Six raids in the last two months, four kerfuffles..just some Onai scouts sniffing for an easy mark...., two knockdown drag-outs between system patrols and raider ships...

"I kinda thought seeing as you were Valkiir you might fit in ok. It's those of us who're in species minorities that tend to be more noticeable, but you do have a point." T'risa gestured to the pair to sit down beside her. "Raids are to be expected with the build of forces elsewhere and the subsequent withdrawal of local forces to bolster it. Honestly...I'm just surprised that they see this as a place to send me. I feel Fleet Admiral J'nai's hand behind this.... and given she must have the most powerful latent precog ability I've ever seen, I wonder what might be going on this region."

There was a sudden crash across the bar, as a sleeping drunk fell out of his chair and kicked his table over, with the accompanying sound of crashing bottles and bouncing tumblers. Cain shook his head in a vain attempt to clear it, and realising what had just happened rose swiftly to his knees and held up his hands, in a manner which hopefully pacified the Valkiir behind the counter. Cain let out a long breath and then got to his feet, before righting the table and chair and picking up his surprisingly unbroken glass and ashtray, and sitting back down.

Reaching into his inside chest pocket he brought out an antique silver case, yawned, then from it drew what might be regarded as a herbal cigarette, which he lit. The smoke helped to clear his senses, barely, but it was better than nothing. Where was he again? Oh, this dive. He took a few minutes to smoke and look around. It was the usual bunch of no-hopers, mercenaries and scumbags, not the sort of people who were needing an experienced pilot, but...

Wait.

"I know that guy..."

There was a huge Valkiir across the way, a Marine Cain recognised from a mission against Onai raiders a few years back. Perhaps his crew needed a pilot...

Cain got up from his seat and staggered across the bar, empty tumbler in hand, flexing his stiff neck and shoulders as he went, to stand before the three strangers sat in a booth (OOC: T'risa, Elsbeth, Balkiir). He looked at the last of these, what passed for a smile of greeting on his face.

"Hey, dude...buy a man a drink?"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:47, Wed 09 Sept 2015.

"This is a nice sector, nothing too serious usually happens..but its got my skin crawling too..that witch of yers might be on to something." Balkiir replied then looked up in surprise, thoughtful for a moment hen grinned ear to ear. Well Hels Bells...thought you would have flown intoa rock by now." He stood up shook the mans hand slapped his shouder, and half shoved him into the bench next to T'risa.

"Marshal this here is an old friend...one of the best pilots I know...well short of Aziza and M'kira...." Balkiir grinned and motioned for more drinks." Don't let the bloodshot eyes...and....whew..you still smoke those things...hes solid, and I know he can fly."

T'risa greeted the man with a dubious smile, her nose twitching at the fumes from the cigarette. "A pleasure to meet you, Balkiir's old friend...I have a suspicion that we might need a pilot in the near future.... and a ship for that matter. I am T'risa K'mahda. Are you currently gainfully employed? CASAR is always on the lookout for talented individuals." T'risa nodded to the bartender to bring whatever the pilot wanted to him.

It was as much a defensive maneuver as it was taking a seat, given the power in Balkiir's shove, but Cain just about pulled it off. The inside of his head ached a bit at that but he shrugged it aside, and instead pulled off his best smile.

"Not for the want of trying, man! Guess those rocks were just movin' too fast for me!"

Cain took a deep puff on his cig and looked across the table at the Tau opposite.

"And you, T'risa. Name's Betler, Cain Betler. If you need a pilot I'm your guy - started on Navy fighters, and have flown pretty much everything under a hundred tons since then. Can make them twist, turn and dive like I'm singing to them! A ship, though...I don't have one of those. But if you get us a ship and CASAR stump up the credits, I'll take you wherever you want to go...and bring you back, too. The big guy knows it."

He took another deep puff and expended his cig, then stubbed it out on the table.

"Beer would be nice."

Opens his eyes remembering suddenly that the CASAR provide military and Law enforcement support to smaller colonies as a private sector arm of the Colonial authority.  He knew he had recognized the name somewhere in his travels.

He contemplates his next move carefully, his last job was over and he had considered taking a short break however this may just be the opportunity he was looking for.  A decent private sector gig that would likely appreciate his skill and experience seemed right up his alley.

Looking into his glass he turns his head to look at the group of Valkiir and their newest drunken companion.

Turning back to the bartender he motions for him to approach..."I'd like to buy a round of drinks for that table of marines over there" as he points to the group.

He waits as the bartender collects another round of whatever they are drinking and takes it them.  He fills his own glass once more, and turns in his seat to see their reaction to his small gift

He gives them a nod and a salute with his glass before taking a drink and turning back to his bottle.  Depending on their level of paranoia this could be pointless or even turn ugly.  Best case scenario they invite him over and he learns more about CASAR, worst case they jump his sorry ass and dump his corpse out back.

Ultimately he figures somewhere in between will do to get his foot in the door... here's hoping that three terms in the marines and three more as a detective gives him a tiny advantage.

Very tiny considering what he's dealing with...

T'risa grinned at the new arrival "You know something Cain? You don't male things challenging enough. I prefer having to mandatory conscript people into CASAR. To have someone volunteer to be our pilot is almost.... worrying. I'll let Balkiir fill you in on the details later, for the time being let us enjoy this time....and new friends."

T'risa's forehead crinkled in thought. She wondered if Cain would make a good addition despite his taste for herbal intoxicants. She briefly looked into the future, not too far, that was far too tiring, but enough that she felt good about Cain joining the team.

"I can all but guarantee we'll be given a ship in under 12 hours. That's about all I can guarantee. I suspect the reps from the K'mahda household on planet will want me off it as soon as possible." and then the glass of wine arrived along with drinks for the others. T'risa frowned. That was something she'd not been expecting. Her eyes picked out the person who bought it for them. She bit the corner of her lip wondering if he was intent on buying favours, but his actions spoke of respect and perhaps a tinge of curiosity. T'risa whispered to the bartender "Please invite him to our table....actually, do you have a private room? We're expecting more to arrive."

Lynn pulled out her battered screen and tapped it. Then tapped it again. Then, with a frown, headbutted it. It popped on as her eyes uncrossed and she grinned.

"Now, let's get to work."

She scrolled through a few things and immediately closed an offer from an old acquaintance. "Yeah...not that desperate yet."

She tapped a message and scanned it quickly with a grin. "Taranda's on site? Maybe I should hook back up with her. Although...yeah, maybe not. The Screaming Eagle might be her pride and joy, but if the wings fall off again I'll likely not be able to fix it this time."

She slapped the side of the device as it flickered. "Come on...someone has to have a use for a starship mechanic somewhere..."

Into the bar strolls a short reptilian alien, a Quetzl.  The creature's skin is the emerald green of contentment.  He stands only 1.5 metres tall, not including the impressive feathered head-dress.  Wearing the undress uniform of a colonel of the Quetzl Ilhuicac-Yaotlahueliloque (Star Marines) with a gauss pistol holstered on his left hip and a Machotle, the traditional bladed weapon of his race, hanging at his right.  As he moves to the bar for a drink, his long forked tongue flickers out, tasting the air.  He must have caught a scent he knows, for he changes direction, heading for the section where Kendrick has placed himself.

"Pipiltin, Cuappetlatl-Ocelopetlatl, Ilhuicac-Yaotlahueliloque, Itzcuauhtli Mixtzin gives you greetings, old friend." he says, with the sibilance common to his kind, and flickers of the bright blue of amusement crossing his face.  "Perhaps you do not recognise my name?  It is much changed since last our paths crossed.  Maybe "Bruce" rings a bell?"  The tongue again flicks out, tasting, testing the reaction.  "I see you have a drink already, so if you'll grant me your company, I'll join you."  Fitting deed to words, he orders a beaker of M'poc which he swirls around to help its aroma rise from the liquid.  Again the tongue tastes the air.  "D'you know Kendrick, I can taste another old friend in the room, and she appears to be looking directly at you.  Shall I make the introductions?"

Smiles turning to face his old friend before speaking aloud..."Bruce, it has been a long time...by all means please join me for a drink"  He pours himself another glass of bourbon and before he can open his mouth the bartender approaches and motions us towards the table full of marines.

"I think introductions would be appropriate, lead the way" taking a sip from his glass he slides out of his seat following behind Mixtzin.  Visibly he looks more at ease about the introduction now that his old friend was here.  What a surprise running into him here.

Walking with the confidence of a marine he notices Lynn sitting off on her own talking to herself...seems a bit off that one but good starship mechanics are hard to come by and decides hold on to that little bit of information.  He was indeed looking to buy into a ship after all, and figured if he plays his cards right this might just be the investment he's been looking for with this group working for CASAR.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 11:15, Thu 10 Sept 2015.

The edges of Elsbeth's lips curved up slightly when Balkiir approached her, his arm embracing her shoulder.  She embraced T'risa in kind when the marshal stood and greeted them warmly.

The young Praetorian woman simply smiled when the question of discretion was addressed, adding her own take, "Friend Balkiir and I didn't bring any heavy weaponry.  We left it in secured in the car."  Her tone was quite cheerfully, if matter-of-fact, meaning that she was both serious, if a bit naive about the situation.  And potentially the meaning of 'discretion' in this case.  But she didn't seem that out of place with her demeanor or hardware, except that she didn't have naturally blue skin.  Her own skin was quite pale, though covered with many colorful tattooes that shown on her forearms and peeked out around her neckline.

Elsbeth sat when T'risa bade her and Balkiir to do so.  The thin marine looked slightly askance at Cain as the drunken pilot inserted himself into their conversation.  If she bristled at all it didn't really show.  Or Balkiir's arm casually wrapped around her shoulders made sure that she didn't move.  Her eyes darted once towards the her burly companion when he made it known that Betler was known to him.  Perhaps the standard CASAR initiation trials would have to wait; she remembered having to cross a couple of hundred miles through Q'sa infested lands before being allowed to join.

Given that the Marshal had effectively deputized the man on the spot, Elsbeth continued with the previous thread in the conversation, "Major, do you believe that the disappearance of the Universal Exploration detail is part of the developing situation?"  It did seem highly suspicious to her, but then what did she know?  She was more on the muscle side than the brains of this particular outfit.  And Cain might as well know what type of situation he was potentially volunteering himself for.

She grabbed a chicken wing and stripped it to the bone in one bite before moving onto another.  With her other hand, Elsbeth poured from the pitcher into the frosted tankards for herself as well as the other men at the table.  T'risa had been nursing her wine; so, the CMC Marine didn't bother to serve her a tankard - she would have served the Marshal, of course, if the Omeadan woman had indicated that she'd wanted some, but Elsbeth had actually never seen their commander partake of beer before.

When yet another round of drinks arrived, Elsbeth didn't think much of it until T'risa mentioned it.  She glanced over towards where the Marshal was looking.  Without missing a beat, the veteran Praetorian asked of the Major, "Ma'am, would you prefer that I or Friend Balkiir ask that individual the purpose of his gift first?"  The man looked to be able to handle himself, but in her experience, nothing generally came for free.

T'risa paused, wondering how to answer Elsbeth's question. "I don't believe in coincidences and there's been too much going on here. She is subtle when she needs to be. Had we not investigated reports of lack of communication from a colony, we'd not even know right know that She was intent on invasion and war. Having said that, she's subtle in a very particular pattern and to be honest, when you look deep into what's going on here....I think there's something to it. I just hope she's testing the local area instead of planning something big. There aren't enough assets in this area to stand a hope against the forces she can throw." T'risa smirked "Although we did defeat a dreadnought with a light freighter and some help."

T'risa shook her head negatively "No, it's fine. It's a gift. I sense no malicious intent, just a passive curiosity....and besides, I think he'll be joining the crew before long." her eyes watched as the Quetzl greeted the drinker a smirk appearing on the corner of hr lips "As he's talking to someone I invited to join our group." T'risa let out a squeal of delight as she shouted "Mixtli!" at the sight of the newcomer.

A tall fit man of indeterminate age steps quietly, humbly into the establishment. He nods to passers by and tilts his head to step in the door. His frame is fit and posture just a little stooped he looks around lazily after ordering a lemon aide and appetizer of fried calimari.

His eyes light up with recognition for Cain and nods to him with a shy wave.

He approaches Cain with a large smile and waits for a polite moment to engage.

His voice is strong and though quiet seems to resonate.
Good Greeting my friend, Mister Cain. I've considered you fondly. Can I share with you some squidchips?

Beer was quick in coming, albeit not from any of Cain's new companions - rather, the older fellow at the bar wanted to extend his greetings. Cain raised his glass in a toast to the guy, but had to wait for a taste when T'risa smiled at him.

"Oh, don't worry - things will soon get challenging now you have me around, they usually do. But sure, here's to new friends."

And now he did take a large drink from his tumbler, and gasped with enjoyment.
"That'll take the edges off," he said, mostly to himself, before looking back at T'risa. "In less than 12 hours? That's impressive. I'll be ready when you are, in any case."

He went back to his beer, which was certainly taking the edges off. Cain wasn't drunk but he was nursing the early stages of a hangover, so it was good to stave it off with some hair of the dog, as they said. Adrenaline could also help in that regard, and one of the things that gave you a shot of adrenaline was seeing another old friend. Cain's eyebrows raised in welcome surprise, and he smiled warmly.

"Good Greetings to you too, Alex! It has been a long time. I take it the Institute did right by you?"

Obviously this was something of a strange conversation, even in a dive like this, and Cain knew he had better elaborate to his new friends.

"This is Alex. He and I go way back. Alex has a certain...mental fortitude, shall we say. If Balkiir can vouch for me, I can vouch for this guy. Take a seat, brother, and thanks but you go ahead and enjoy your food."

The small alien approaches the group around T'risa, accompanied by the man who sent the drinks.  The alien bows to T'risa, the violet of delight suffusing his face, "Pipiltin, Cuappetlatl-Ocelopetlatl, Ilhuicac-Yaotlahueliloque, Itzcuauhtli Mixtzin greets his old friend T'risa K'mahda, and thanks her for remembering him with fondness.  I present to you another old friend, Kendrick Johnson, who is also in need of interesting work."  Turning to his companion, "Kendrick, may I present," turning to T'risa, with a slight bow, "It is Marshall now, is it not?" and back to Kendrick, "Marshall T'risa K'mahda, an old friend, with whom I shared some interesting times..."  In an aside to T'risa, Mixtzin whispers, "Kendrick knows me as 'Bruce'"

His skin changing again to the emerald green of contentment, Mixtzin turns and bows to the other members of what is fast turning into a party, "Pipiltin, Cuappetlatl-Ocelopetlatl, Ilhuicac-Yaotlahueliloque, Itzcuauhtli Mixtzin offers his greetings to those of you he has not yet had the pleasure of meeting, until this propitious moment," raising his beaker in a toast, "and may our time together be full of the joys that only lives such as ours can know."  He drinks, "Please call me Mixtli..., or Bruce if you prefer." with a flicker of amusement, and then addresses T'risa, "T'risa, would you be so kind as to introduce me to your friends?"

All the while, the alien's forked tongue has been flickering in and out, as he tastes the air around him.

T'risa greeted the Quetzl with enthusiasm "Well, interesting work is something we have plenty of. In fact, it's the reason I invited you here. I thought we might need someone with your talents. I'm uh...well, my job title is Colonial Marshal, I got promoted to..." T'risa looked at her credentials "Uh...Major, but everyone should just call me T'risa unless we're trying to impress people."</Blue>

T'risa pointed to Balkiir at first <Purple>"This is Balkiir Koval, long time friend and co worker. He's a Valkiir heavy weapons specialist and as tough as I've seen any." she pointed to Elsbeth next  "Elsbeth, Colonial Marine, she's been kinda acting as a bodyguard for me as a while and I think this is the first time I've seen her outside battle dress in...a long time." she then pointed to Cain "Cain Betler, former fighter pilot and our designated pilot for when we get the new ship. One of Balkiirs friends and any friends of Balkiir's is one of mine too."

She turned to face the others "Everyone? Please meet Pipiltin, Cuappetlatl-Ocelopetlatl, Ilhuicac-Yaotlahueliloque, Itzcuauhtli Mixtzinm or as I know him, Mixtli...or as others know him Bruce. He's a Marine. Met him when I was part of Admiral J'nai's retinue and we've been keeping in touch on and off ever since." T'risa looked at the the rest of the group "but the rest of you, I'm afraid I don't know yet. Please introduce yourselves."

Following behind Mixtli he looks to his old friend once more..."Didn't know you went by Mixtli, I'll be sure to remember that"  he smiles at him then turns his attention towards T'risa after the introduction and gives the Colonial Marshal she deserves saluting her as he would back in his marine days.  "A pleasure to meet you ma'am, as chance would have it running into Bru...Mixtli tonight has brought with it a chance to speak with you.  I had overheard your group talking about the CASAR and was interested in learning more bout the work they are hiring for?" he says to her as he takes another sip from his glass.

"I figured I would see if there was any work locally, maybe even find a decent ship(1 ship share) to invest in..." he lets that last comment trail off taking another sip trying to gauge her response to his statements.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:52, Sat 12 Sept 2015.

The Tall man inclines his head respectfully to the lovely blue female. He smiles. Then with a slight hint of formality he introduces himself.

Major T'rissa I am Alehandes PushK'Hal, civilian, a recent student and humble worker, wanderer, and Finder of things. Though once I served as you have, I'm afraid PFC PushK'Hin has become far to accostomed to sleeping late and carousing to continue his warlike ways.

With exceptional grace the large man slips into a seat and lays his large plate of calamari. In everyone's reach while sliding his soda into a convenient space.
Please share, the dipping is delightful. he indicates with long open fingers.
Is this a private meeting for a new venture? I don't mean to interfere ...

He looks at the old man - a ship? I too have been seeking a new investment. (3 ship shares)

 With the new arrivals even the large, Valkiir sized booth has become a bit crowded, the owner hustles everyone back to the private room T'risa has requested and promises that if anyone else shows up he'll bring them right back.

the room is supplied with large comfortable chairs, a fully stocked Humidor, and a stocked wet bar.

This message was deleted by the player at 03:25, Fri 11 Sept 2015.

T'risa ushered the others into the private room "Let me answer everyones questions in our room." T'risa had a quiet word word with the bartender to keep the food and drink coming and to guide the late arrivals to the room. She looked at her PDA checking her messages before following the others into the room.

"Okay, I'm sure you all have a lot of questions. I am Colonial Marshal T'risa K'mahda and I might be what you could call a troubleshooter for CASAR. I've only been working for CASAR for four years, but in that time my team and I have been at the center of some...well... cataclysmic events. As a Colonial Marshal, I have broad powers to help me to resolve the issues at hand. I can recruit you all into CASAR for the duration of the current crisis.....and this system does have a crisis."

T'risa paused for a moment to let that sink in. "You probably all know there's a galactic war brewing. You probably believe it is with the Q'sa. It isn't, it's with an entity we know as She. I've been in direct psychic contact with her and I can tell you in her mind there is no compromise, she seeks nothing less than genocide. She's been playing the long game over millennia to gather what she needs to wipe everyone out. So far the only thing that put a dent in her plan was me and my team.... and she's scared of me and what we represent. She is smart and cunning at a level none can comprehend, but she has flaws. Her ploys take the same route...a ship missing, communications difficult with a colony here, an act of terrorism there. I've been working with both CASAR, the Imperial Fleet and the Alliance fleet extensively, there's nothing available to help us here. The simple fact is this. She is active in many different areas and the fleets are busy trying to protect those areas. My precog senses went off the charts when I was looking into things in this area...and that's why I'm here. I think whatever game she's playing in this sector, it's critical to her plans....and I am here to stop her." T'risa took a sip of her glass of wine to moisten her throat. "So.... to fully inform you, there's a strong possibility some of you won't make it home. I've been the subject of multiple assassination attempts, bombings and various other attempts to weaken me physically, financially and socially. Anyone joining my team is likely to face the same problems. Balkiir and Elsbeth can attest to exactly how often this happens....but I'm here to look for people to help make a difference. Our actions will save the lives of millions of sentients. Make no mistake She is out to kill us all and she already has most of the tools to be able to do it. What I need are people to help defeat her. Heroes.... and to put it simpler still, all of you."

T'risa paused to let the speech sink in on everyone's consciousness before the intoxicants started flowing "If you're still in, let me know and I'll deputise you. There will be no repercussions if you choose to leave....and if you have any questions, please ask now. There won't be any easy way for us to pause and let you off if it turns out not to be to your liking."

Upon entering the private room he stands there listening intently to T'risa and what she has to say.  He thinks about his career up until this point and where he is going, and while he's done a lot of good work over the years, never was there a time that something truly heroic took place.  This was his one regret more then anything.  Considering his options once she has finished her speech he says aloud.  "I'm in."

With that he wastes no time eying up the humidor and walking over to see what sort of selection they have available.  You can see the smile broaden as retrieves a high-end cigar from its case.   He picks up a nearby cigar cutter gently removing the end of it.  Seeing a bowl of matches picks one and up strikes it against his thumbnail, an old trick he learned years ago from CO, he places the cigar between his lips carefully puffs on it as he brings the match to the end of it.

Shaking the match until it dies he takes a long drag "Now that's a good cigar..." he says aloud to himself blowing out a puff of smoke into the air which disappears quickly into a ceiling vent...he walks over to one of the nearby chairs sitting down and kicking up a leg on his knee before commenting towards Mixtli..."Bruce you really should have one of these, especially if your going to get in on this deal" his casualness with his old friend starting to show as he lets out another puff then takes another sip of his bourbon emptying this glass.

It's at that moment he get back up and decides to check the wet bar hoping to find another bottle of bourbon...fully stocked indeed! as he holds up the bottle and starts to set out some glasses.  "would anyone else like a drink?" he says to the group as he pours himself another, likely his last of the evening since getting drunk was not on the agenda.  While he certainly has the endurance to hold his liquor he's not one to tempt fate in this regard, especially when it seemed that there was much to be discussed between himself and Colonial Marshal.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:33, Fri 11 Sept 2015.

Well candidate Kalaperna, how would you proceed? Well sir, after the bombing has been completed…

This pub looked like that kind of place. In her younger days, she had chivved her share of spacers out of worse places. This time there was no shore patrol to back her up though.

Her sense of military correctness urged her to hurry, even though she was in no particular rush. With some reluctance, she stepped into the bar. Of medium height and with severely braided grey hair, she wouldn’t stand out in a place like this. The ramrod straight posture with which she held herself, and the aura of command she projected, were a little more distinguishing. She wasn’t wearing a uniform but her black and silver dress suit was vaguely military in cut. It felt wrong.

A barman of some sort took one look at her and hurried across the room to her.

“They are in the back room, I am supposed to take you back.”

“Very well,” she replied crisply, following the ill favored looking man. She shouldn’t be doing this, there was a war to be fought and it was up there in space, not skulking around in taverns. No she couldn’t think like that, this was the same war and if she didn’t like the way it had to be fought then she would just have to put on the armored suit like the rest of them.

The barman lead her to a sturdy door, he knocked and stepped away. When it opened she stepped through without hesitating. The hum of conversation quieted. She was immediately surprised by several familiar faces but  kept the surprise from her features. What in the Letter of the Regulations was Push’kal doing here? Or Winters, or … Smythe was it?

Turning she pushed the door shut before giving her full attention to the woman at the center of the little gathering, her identity obvious from the briefing.

“Marshal K’mhada,” she began with a polite inclination of her head.

“I am Nera Kalaperna, I believe you were expecting me.”

Alejades is standing almost immediately upon seeing his former commander cross the threshold. He moves in one fluid motion so quickly that he almost seems to instantly shift to a posture not unlike attention. Fortunately for decorum he does not call the room. He does watch for the standard and appropriate wave down whereby officers instinctively wave off military courtesies when they are not required.

When he relaxes after nodding to CAPT Kaliperna he looks to the Marshall.

Ma'am, if I may presume on a moment. I'm shocked to be in such company for such an important mission. Of course we both understand the scarcity of accident in the synchronicity of coincidence. But several items seem to confuse me. For one - you say 'She' is supremely intelligent, more than us ... And 'She' is bent on Genocide ... Genocide of whome and why?

Has 'She' been harmed by terraforming? Has 'She' some existential need? It just seems to me that Genocide of any species is not efficient or profitable. I'm wondering if perhaps 'She' showed you this to manipulate you to act in some way or to be afraid.

Another question I have: Is this an official and endorsed mission? Is it funded and would participants be combined into a task force? If not, why? I'm particularly curious about the opinions of your high command.

Thank you, Ma'am please call me Alex

" SHE, is bugnuts crazy." Balkiir commented as he fetched a drink and plate of snacks offering some to Elseth as he listened." we're talking Meglomania, Psychosis, and a real honest to god, GOD.. GODDESS complex."

It was getting kinda crowded at the booth, but thankfully the barman had the sense to guide everyone into a private room before they drew even more attention. Cain was all smiles as he entered, beer in hand, and took a seat. There were so many faces here, but...hold on...some of them were starting to look awful familiar, besides Balkiir and Alex.

But that would have to wait. Now that they were all gathered in privacy T'risa...sorry, Colonial Marshal T'risa...gave them the low-down. It was some pretty deep shit. For all that, Cain didn't need more time to think about it. He followed the old guy's lead.

"I'm in too. Bad things seem to happen to me all the time and this doesn't sound much different, so what's the worst that could happen?"

With a grin Cain stood up and walked over to the wet bar where the grey-haired dude was.

"I'll join you. Make it a large one."

While the fellow poured the drinks Cain helped himself to an identical fine cigar from the humidor, and went through the same process before taking a deep puff and blowing smoke high into the air. He smiled and took his drink and from it a large swig, before setting the glass down and offering his hand to shake.

"Kendrick, wasn't it? Cain Betler, pleasure to meet you. Some real nice stuff they have here, huh?" He waved his cigar around and nodded to the tumbler of bourbon.

T'risa greeted the new arrival with a broad smile "Nera Kalaperna...of course. I checked my PDA to see if there'd been any messages. when I didn't see anything, I'd assumed you'd chosen not to accept the invitation. It's good to see you." T'risa held up a hand. "Now as to answer your other questions. CASAR knows I'm here and I have broad operating powers. They'll sanction anything I do. We do have a budget, but more than that I have a significant amount of personal finances to get us what we need. When, and if, you choose to be deputised you'll be an official CASAR employee, although it'll take time for id cards and gear to get here."

T'risa looked around the room, her eyes drawn and intense "She sees us as an existential threat. I have been inside her mind. There is no compromise with her. There is no independance, no free spirit. You bow to her will or are destroyed with little thought or concern. She sees us as a threat because we are free thinkers and we dare defy her wish. It's true... genocide perhaps isn't the right choice of word to describe her desire, but that's because there is no word to describe the slaughter in her mind. She's not aiming to crush a single species, she's aiming to crush them all, with the possible exception of the Q'sa who serve her. Her plans are more advanced than any might consider. You might wish to consider this. She sees herself as the only sentient worthy of life and she's been alive for longer than most species have existed. When she entered my mind it was inconceivable to her that I would not just accept her as my ruler. She's been alone and I think that turned her crazy when I popped out of nowhere and could actually fight her will."

On his way to the private room Mixtzin orders a selection of Quetzl foods and a large flask of the finest M'poc, to be shared amongst the group.  "Kendrick, maybe I'll try one after I've eaten, I do not wish to pollute my palate for the delicacies we are about to be served."  He takes a seat, making him seem even smaller in the over-sized furniture.  When the flask of M'poc arrives he holds it on high, "Who would like to try this delightful drink...?  I must warn you that non-Quetzl often find it highly intoxicating, but it is the perfect accompaniment to the dishes that will soon be served," and pours a measure for himself.

As T'risa lays out the situation, Mixtzin's skin chages to the deep indigo of interest, his ruff of feathers flickering from time to time.  His mane seems a little more full as a result of what he has heard.  His response of, "Count me in." comes at the same time as Kendrick's "I'm in."  Rising from his chair he moves to Kendrick and Cain.  With a slight bow, "Pipiltin, Cuappetlatl-Ocelopetlatl, Ilhuicac-Yaotlahueliloque, Itzcuauhtli Mixtzin offers his greetings to the friend of Kendrick.  Please call me Mixtli, or, as my old friend does... Bruce..." and holding out the flask, repeats his offer of M'poc.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:32, Fri 11 Sept 2015.

Lynn had looked up and seen Cain, wondering why he looked so familiar. She'd stood up to go find out and gotten swept into the room with all these people. Of course, it was then that her memory had unfogged and she'd at least remembered a first name. Cain. And if she was right, he was an ex. She tried to remember if it was one of those good separation or bad, and then she remembered, she'd shipped off without a word. Well, maybe he'd not remember...

And of course, it was starting to look like old home week.

"Nera?" she blinked in surprise.

And then the discussion really hit her. what the heck were they talking about?

"Whoa, whoa, whoa. Slow your barrel roll. An insane Goddess bent on universal genocide? And you're going to get one small bunch of people together to try and go all rebel forces on her?"

She blinked again, then leaned on the table with a crazy smile.

"You need a mechanic?"

"Hello Lynn," his face suffused with violet, "it is a delight to see you again," and with a bow, "Pipiltin, Cuappetlatl-Ocelopetlatl, Ilhuicac-Yaotlahueliloque, Itzcuauhtli Mixtzin offers his greetings to his friend Lynn Winters." Mixtzin offers her a beaker of M'poc.  "You make some good points, but someone must do the dirty work..."

T'risa PDA woke up with an alarm from one of Kronos' more recent releases. T'risa looked at the screen for a moment before placing it on the ground. She smirked at Lynn as she set it to activate the hologram function. "What we need are heroes more than mechanics, but if you're willing to sing on, we're more than happy to have you." before she addressed the rest of the room "My aide has uncovered some ships for sale in the local area. These are the selections he's found available and within our budget."

T'risa let the hologram wake up and fill the central area with the schemtics and designs of the ships her broker had found. "So...our first decision as a group. Which ship to buy."

OOC: The GM is going to post which ships are good for us in another thread

The tall man listens nodding as if to the beat of a dance groove as he watches the group with wonder, fascination, and the amusement of one who fell upon an adventure tale just when there was nothing better going on. He wonders how they can jump into their commitments with so little information especially that life is so short for them. The enthusiasm is astonishing in the Greek sense of the word these people are filled with spirit.

Well, I am indeed very much honored to join with your heroes and trust my service will be satisfactory. May Those Who Came Before pass to us Their strength and send victory with understanding.

... I shall make arrangements for secondment with personnel.

He makes no drama with his short invocation but adjusts his posture stepping back relaxing with his drink and a few dips of squid while watching to ensure others may communicate and see without barrier.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:04, Sat 12 Sept 2015.

smiles nods to Cain as well "Nice to meet you as well, call me Rick.  Indeed the quality of all this will certainly go to my head if I ain't careful"  he says while puffing on his cigar some more.

Making his way back to his seat he relaxes once more content with goodies but still struggling with his somewhat rash decision to join this group.  It wasn't like him but then again neither was this calamity of epic proportions a normal situation.  He considers that since he has no family of his own that there really wasn't much to loose but his life, and that has always been on the ante plate since started out in the marines two decades ago.  Looking on the bright side there is always the chance he lives...

He turns his head to T'risa as she mentions looking for a ship to purchase.  "please if you would consider my offer to invest in your ship?  Even though this seems an awful lot like a one way trip to hell theres always we'll make it back." he says giving her smile and a wink.

Nera shook hans with T'risa and then took her seat for the remainder of the presentation. She exchanged professional nods with those with whom she was acquainted. Alot of old faces here, it seemed.

When T'risa completed her presentation. Nera cleared her throat, earning herself a moments silence.

"If any of you are on the fence about this you may infer from my presence here that the TAEN is not disinterested in this situation." It wasn't offically interested either, that is why Nera and her new group was here to do. Run down intel and solve problems before they became officially intesting. Battle group with guns blazing interested.

"CASAR is taking the lead on this, but I will be providing additional logistical and tactical support."

Walking into the bar, looking rather tired and hurried is this hybrid between a Cesti and a Human looking individual with the head of a lion and a tail.   His mane is a russet yellow w/ golden hued highlights.   Clearly male he is wearing some high tech tinted glasses so you can't tell the color of his eyes.   Wearing an old fashioned bomber jacket with a decal of the FLYING TIGERS on the back, a black double breasted t-shirt over obvious other armored clothing, camouflage style crew pocketed pants and black combat boots.   Walking like he has had some military training, he strolls up to the bar and asked the barkeep, where he could find a Major T'risa Kahmada?

Once directed to where she is, he will walk of to her and introduce himself as TAL ATVAR.   Then he will go with her to the presentation.

OOC: (Both the introduction and description of walking into the pub were before the presentation of the mission.)
This message was last edited by the player at 19:43, Sat 12 Sept 2015.

Upon entering the room Tal took a seat and listened intently as the Colonel Marshal spoke about the real war, he couldn't help but think of his accident in the Navy, even though he was found ultimately not responsible, he still felt responsible, enough to leave the service.   Even though it happened on his watch and nothing had been going wrong just prior to the accident, he wondered if SHEhad caused it.   It also brought to mind the disaster he just recently encountered, could SHE have caused this too.   Since Tal didn't like airing any type of laundry, dirty or otherwise, in public, he meant to asked the Colonel in private.   When she had finished the presentation he quietly gave his accent to join the endeavor after standing up and after the next vocalization by another member of the group member.   He motioned the Colonel over for a talk as the group started filing out of the room.   Once he has the blue tinted woman attention in private.

This message was last updated by the player at 19:42, Sat 12 Sept 2015.

T'risa talked in the corner with Tal, while the others started to drink and talk amongst themselves.

In reply to T'risa K'mahda (msg # 46):

In reply to T'risa, Tal says, "Thanks for the information, the court inquiry ultimately found that the engine room had been sabotaged somehow.   They are still looking into it I'm sure, even now after four and a half years since I was in the navy."   Tal after talking with the Colonel about his past will go back to the group as a whole and get acquinted.   Eating the various foods but the alcoholic drinks, he abstained from, not from any sense of prohibitaton just that he really couldn't hold his alcohol.

When the gathering whined down Tal said, "I got to pick up most of my gear from a local storage place and will need a lift to wherever ship or base we are going to use for this operation.   Weapons, Tools, Survival gear and laptop computer."   He will respond when asked about specifics.   "Most of the other stuff came with me on my way here from jail."   When asked about his jail time, he'll say, "It's a long story involving Sal, meaning the Mook and something else.   We can talk about it later."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:43, Mon 14 Sept 2015.

Nera wanders among the gathering speaking quietly.

Alex smiles broadly at Commodore Kaliperna when she speaks to him. He stands and steps close to her in a fluid motion and gives a gentle friendly embrace he intuits her reaction if she shows discomfort he will give a gentle shoulder pat before backing off if she is comfortable he will do either a quick buddy hug or the pecks near each cheek greeting common among his people and many Terrans.

Ma'am, the Navy must have been good to you, I long for the story to be heard. He says pausing. then he shakes his head at her question, smiling wistfully as a man much older than he appears considering his impetuous youth. I separated from the Corps shortly after our .... Uh... Work He says. I had long dreamed of a certain path, a work of faith and knowledge as a ... A priest you might say. I was rejected the second time when I submitted to the draft and served. We say 'The crucible of agony reveals our gems.' At that time I thought I was ready. He smirks at a private joke. They saw me differently. It took a decade of wandering without purpose before I finally acquiesced to the grand design. When I gave up on my selfish goals the way was made clear. I am studying in university now. I have a wonderful mentor and am starting graduate school. He beams. Then briefly frowns. Though even there violence can find you.   He banishes the thought and looks at Nera to hear what she has to say. It's a bit disconcerting how he still looks the ageless man of his late twenties or healthy thirties that he did more than 12 years ago. But his eyes are older, and wise. In his naieve way.

After an evening of carousing with his new companions he makes his way to the wet bar pouring himself one last drink.  He also grabs another cigar lighting it before turning to face the group as a whole.

Directing his attention to his new boss he says to her "As it is getting late I will be retiring for the evening.  I have a room with all my necessary gear about 10 minutes walk from here, room 211 at the hotel up the road.  I assume we shall meet in the morning to look at potential ships and make preparations to be under way.  Would 8am at the star port be sufficient or should I wait until summoned?"

As the presentation was engaged Alex focused his mind not wanting to miss anything he drew a point from his psi battery to become even more aware and present in the moment.

Once the evening gets going he begins to loosen up, talking to each member in turn pouring drinks calling for food, telling jokes and stories in his country style. Everyone is able to have a nice time.

Just playing with the dice roller.
13:25, Today: Alex rolled 11 using 2d6+3.  Carouse.
13:23, Today: Alex rolled 13 using 2d6+4.  Expanded awareness .

Poppy strolled n beebopping to music that she heard in her head. Dancing  bit as she cleared the door Dressed n a skin tight body sleeve and cut off leather jacket that almost resembled a uniform in some way.The heavy guass machine pistols on each hip and another pair riding in shoulder rigs hinted that she wasn't the average club girl. Suddenly realizing there were other people in the room. She stopped dead in her tracks looked sheepish then waved awkwardly t everyone"Wow,....a party and I nearly missed it.You could tell a girl, I mean Walking in all dancy dancy.and not even saying hi looks kind of....crayyyyyyyyyzzzzzeeeeeeeeeee"

as she spoke she went all wide eyed, and put on a smile that was enough to have most people looking for the door out. A picture perfect impression off a lunatic girl off her meds, and about to do something wicked."Don't worry I'm not crazy, really they just programmed me a bit......Odddddd."

 Poppy grinned widely as she snapped to attention..a comical version of it anyway." Ma'am, supplies ordered and ready for delivery, we have an appointment at the shipyard at ten hundred hours, and funds are now available for disbursement to suicide squad members....um valiant volunteers...nobody volunteers for suicide duty, well yeah I guess they do..but ost of the time they get fed a line about a vital mission requiring the best of the best, and they have been selected...." She added a snappy salute and resumed a not quite standard at ease pose..the grin and bubble that quickly grew to match her skull in volume ruined the military precision.

the bubble burst ad Poppy spent some time extracting it from her bright blue hair.

At some point Alex buys Cain a beverage of choice and speaks when him.

Well, my friend he says with a half clap on the shoulder before taking a swig of own drink - you do not know how much you changed my life with your visit. This new environment is invigorating and full of joy.

Do you continue flying the edges of the universe? Have you considered setting in for a time or must you always explore?

As he listens the lady approaches and gives report.

Pleas join us when you have a break, I understand we can offer some synthetic blends from the bar.

 he says to the blue hair.

T'risa returned the grin "Hi Poppy. We're going shopping for a ship tomorrow. So they'll need to stay on the pallets somewhere overnight. Up to the task of amking sure none of it goioes missing?"

T'risa nodded to the room at large "Let's just spend the rest of this evening in good company. When you're ready to leave, please stop by and leave contact details with me. I'll need to swear you in to CASAR before you get paid and I'll send you the location of where we are to meet tomorrow to assess the ships we're interested in."

"Ship shopping! I love ship shopping! I'd be happy to check the engine rooms out and see if they're ship shape. Well, engine shaped. And working."

She grins at Mixtzin. "Mix! Wow, I haven't seen you in...several bottles of alcohol at least. Did you get taller? Wait, did I get shorter? Eh, who remembers? Anyway you're looking good."

This was a diverse crowd, which made her grin.

"Hey Nera. Oh, you know, this and that. Well, technically if asked I didn't do that but I'm almost never opposed to it. When two intelligent beings do with power tools behind closed doors and all that...

In reply to T'risa K'mahda (msg # 54):

"oooooooo"</blu>Poppy squealed with girlish delight and bounced slightly..<blue> shopping......I saw this little boutique they have theeee cutest legs, you know how I am about my legs, four pair is the bare minimum thse days...you have to have one for work and one for hen work gets ugly.... then there parties you need a really nice set for parties anymore I mean since the series 1122s came out with that morphing skin and variable configuration girls are changing legs in the middle of parties just to suit which butt they are wearing...and don't get me started on those modular things, Oh lord a girl goes dancing one of the mag-links go out and plop, down you go in the middle of the floor....I'm babbling again ain't I?"Poppy chattered at a rate no human could match without turning blue. It seemed the pauses weren't so much to breath, being random and unrelated to what she was saying.

"Oh, ship shopping, well that's different we want something with JkL97 plasma guns, a 75mm rail cannon, and Oh yeah got to have those new positech particle cannon..1000Kay Em nooo problem ...zap..crispy bug-lizard..."

At the mention of ship shopping, Tal mentions, "That he can help in the engine room and can man and inspect the shipboard weapons."

Well, the AI lady doesn't seem interested in grabbing a drink, and with no skill in Ship shopping, Alex continues general carousing to catch up with old friends and make new ones.

 Poppy pauses for a second and glances at Alex as if he was only just now registered in her perception.

" Oh sorry I am a little scatter brained right now..."she smiled walked over and offered her hand." Poppy, tactical operations, logistics,computer operation...naturally... demolitions, and morale officer."

Mixtzin makes the rounds of the room, offering M'poc to those brave (or perhaps crazy?) enough to try it.  "Poppy, Pipiltin, Cuappetlatl-Ocelopetlatl, Ilhuicac-Yaotlahueliloque, Itzcuauhtli Mixtzin offers you his greetings, and some M'poc, if you're crazy enough?"

"T'risa, I'd like to have a look at the medical facilities on any ship we take, especially given Poppy's comments concerning the likelihood of injury...  I think I'll follow Rick's lead, leaving the partying to the youngsters.  You can contact me at the Quetzl High Commission, or via my comm," touches his comm to T'risa's, allowing their mutual aides to exchange data.

"I bid you all a good night." and with that he takes his leave.

Nera sipped cautiously at her synthetic brandy. Perhaps there were connoisseurs who could differentiate it from industrial alcohol that the engineering crews cut with water, but she wasn't among them.

Before leaving he offers his comm to T'risa to exchange information.  "Thank you for this opportunity, have a good evening."

He steps out and heads off back to his room for the night.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:14, Mon 14 Sept 2015.

In their moment Alex pays close attention to CAPTAIN Kaliperna. He speaks more quietly with her to mirror what he percieves as her comfort level.

To Kendrick: Well Mr Johnson Sir, I will enjoy the telling of your story at another time, idthansamahu.

To Mistzin: Crazy? Why is it crazy? This is a challang I am thinking - Alex will taste the I sane beverage and bid the wild reptilian goodnight as he goes.

If he survives the drink he will continue with Poppy:
Well, good greetings Poppy, Demolition and Morale, sounds terribly exciting. This is Cain, a great star Pilot, and CAPT Kaliperna, the Navy's Finest. I am honored to call them friend.

I'm afraid I am here by accident if you believe in that sort of thing. But I have some knowledge a little magic and I can shoot so I will stay and serve as I never let an opportunity out of my hand.

Since it looked like the party was breaking up, Tal will give the Marshal his contact information before leaving to go to the local hostelry for the night.   But before he will leave he will try the crazy drink that was being offered but will promptly leave after that and will express his shortcoming with alcoholic drink and begging for forgiveness as he leaves the room.


16:52, Today: Tal Atvar rolled 7 using 2d6+2.  END ROLL/ drinking crazy concoction . Roll just in case of not holding it
This message was last edited by the player at 23:55, Mon 14 Sept 2015.

"Rick...and Mix...Mitz...M...Bruce! I got it! Cheers!"

Cain raised his glass to both Kendrick and Mixtli then went and found a comfy seat in the corner to watch proceedings. A mixed bunch they were, but just the sort of people who could form a very effective team, for what that was worth.

He sat for a while puffing on his cigar and nursing his bourbon, feeling a lot better than he had an hour or two ago, but eventually he returned to the wetbar, where Alex was keeping everyone entertained. The clap on his shoulder felt like it would have dislocated it on another day, and Cain's eyes widened in surprise. And that surprise increased when Alex spoke to him, with genuine, humbling words.

"Uh...you're welcome, my friend. You looked like you needed a push in the right direction back then, so I'm glad it all worked out for you, really glad. Guess you've been working that body as well as your mind..."

Cain grinned as he rubbed his shoulder, to show he was only (slightly) kidding.

"Me? Yup, still following the stars to the outer reaches of the multiverse, trying to keep my nose clean. And I'll stop doing that when trouble stops beating on my ass..."

Cain hoisted another drink and toasted Alex, then turned and looked around. It was time to speak to an old...friend. It had been years, but he remembered that blonde: she didn't look any different...well, maybe apart from the dirty overalls. It had been an interesting time, with all that implied...

"Hey Lynn. Long time, no see. How's the old man?"

Lynn turned to Cain with a mischievous grin. "Cain! Hey! How's it going?"

She bounced over to him, doing wonderful things to the front of her overalls.

"Oh, you know Daddy. 'Hey pumpkin, how's it going? Everything ok? Did you get those assassins and bounty hunters I sent? Great.'" she makes a face. "But hey, the more things change and all that. How have you been? Did you lose weight? No...the hair, that's it. You cut your hair."

"Oh, you know...flying to the ends of the galaxy...getting shot at...having cute girls leave you in the middle of the night without saying a word...

That's meant to be my role."

Now it was Cain's turn to be grinning, and he offered Lynn a hug.

"Nice of you to keep your dad interested in his hobby, though, some care in the community and all that! I see you took your interest in ships and ran with it, huh? I may have left the Navy not long after we parted, but I stayed with spacecraft, doing exploratory work with the scouts. It's been good, although trouble seems to follow me around. More things chane, like you say...

And thanks, but my weight is fine and my hair hasn't changed - I'm not needing to hide the grey, unlike some people..."

Elsbeth had made her way into the room at Balkiir's side; she was never more than a few steps away from T'risa at any point, however.  She'd spent much of the briefing continuing to eat and drink, as she watched the reaction of the crowd.  Though not a Valkiir, the thin Praetorian seemed to have the ability to eat almost as much as any of the large, blue-skinned warriors.  Perhaps it was merely one of the functions that had been genetically engineering into her metabolism; whether it was byproduct or not was still up for debate, but the raven-haired Tae woman had always found it useful.  Especially once she'd joined the CA Marines and had to be able to eat whatever and whenever the opportunity presented itself.  And especially now, here on Suhn Shae with Balkiir and his brethren, whom she'd determined planned their social calendars from meal to meal.  In fact, she'd 'helped' carry a couple of serving plates of appetizers in order to ensure that their corner of the table might have an undisrupted supply of food available.

Poppy's entrance brought a slight, if rather vague, smile to her lips.  Her programmed irreverence had always amazed and bemused Elsbeth.  And not for the first time, the young Praetorian Frank touched the dimpled bumps at her right wrist unconsciously.  Both she and Poppy were the products of Tae minds; attempts to create life in their own images.  Two spurs along the parallel paths of forced convergent evolution.  Though mechanical in her original genesis, Poppy seemed to display so many more emotional human traits than her that it made Elsbeth wonder sometimes about their roles in the bigger picture.  But, then Elsbeth had never been the brightest bulb on the tree - even if she was one of the smartest ones in her clutch; so, she tended not to dwell on such lofty abstract ideas too much.

It was only once she was in the room with the others, that she began to put faces to names.

She greeted Cain warmly, if a touch formally.  It had been a number of years since the man had help spirit her off-planet from Enchoa Rhi.  She'd been a much thinner, more bedraggled self and a much more scared young woman (of sorts).  At least more adrift, having crossed a vast desert to make it to the planet's downport and escape the forced labor camp that she'd been interred at.  One of the reasons that she'd not recognized him immediately had been that he'd been much more sober the last time she'd seen him.

Luckily, the drunken pilot was already in conversation with another man that she also knew.  She seemed surprised the two knew of each other.  But, then Elsbeth had come to expect such surprises.  Ifni and her fickle hand always seemed ready with serendipitous surprises when it came to people and showing just how small the vast expanding universe could actually be.  Alex was a welcome sight, having been crucial in helping her get out of the prison on Enchoa Rhi.  And the man could fight, which was one of the reasons that they were still alive - 'forced labor' had included violent 'entertainment' for the pleasure of the guards and warden.

Later, Elsbeth paused in conversation with the room's lone Quetzl, when Neva had approached her.   Nodding to Kalaperna, the lanky Praetorian introduced the two, "Pleased to see you again, Commodore.  This marine medic's name is Mixztin."  She got the inflection pretty much right, before continuing, "I was just showing him the new hardware."  And she flexed her left arm, an appendage that had been missing when Mixztin had last had the privilege of treating her as a patient.  Her left arm wasn't brand-new, but it was at least two iterations later than the temporary stub prosthetic that Mixztin had been able to administer in the field before she bled out.  Elsbeth added helpfully, genuine admiration in her voice, "It is only due to his ministrations that I am still alive."  An effective, if rather simple, statement from the terse marine about her past.

She watched with amusement as Lynn and Cain reconnected.  The young engineer looked very familiar to her, but Elsbeth couldn't quite place her.  And she wasn't about to burst in on a conversation between two people that knew each other so well.

"I don't have any grey. All this hair color is natural and mine. And we don't go grey in my family, we go distinguished silver.

She gave him a quick hug.

"And technically I didn't leave in the middle of the night, it was more like mid afternoon."

Alex raises a brow as the lady tells Cain what for, surely it is an entertaining story if it were to be told.
Hello, he says to the woman, I am Alex, a friend of good Cain here.

After a brief introduction he leaves them to their catching up and notices Quiet Elsbeth, his eyes widen and he reaches out then pulls back unsure. By the makers and the Firstborn! And all who Came Before! This is the most unexpected night of many decades!

It is wonderful you are living and living well it seems. Eme, no Eli uh ..... Elsbeth! Yes! From that most challenging places, are you one who is behind all this ?
He says noticing her proximity to the others.

Or am I hallucinating from that Qetzle drink? He wonders looking for signs of reality.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:14, Thu 17 Sept 2015.

Nera smiled and nodded at Mixztin.

"Pleased to meet you Mixztin," she greeted, inclining her head in greeting. She tried hard to unbend, the urge to start giving orders to organize the gathering. Noticing the others looking at her. She covered her mouth with a gloved hand and coughed.

"Sorry, not exactly in my element here."

OOC: All of this before he makes his exit with Kendrick


His skin showing the deep indigo of interest, Mixtzin examines Elsbeth's new arm, Elsbeth, I am pleased to see that your new prosthetic suits you well.  I have passed beyond mere medic since our paths last crossed.  I had the good fortune to receive some very intense training and experience during my last tour.  I hope my new skills are not required in our joint enterprise, but should they be called upon, I expect to be somewhat more useful than I was for you.


"Pipiltin, Cuappetlatl-Ocelopetlatl, Ilhuicac-Yaotlahueliloque, Itzcuauhtli Mixtzin greets Nera Kalaperna, the friend of Elsbeth.  Please call me Mixtli, or Bruce, if you prefer... the brigh blue of amusement briefly flashing through the rose pigments of  pleasure, and his long forked tongue flickering as he constantly tastes the air for the new scents around him. "I too am not in my element.  I would rather be leading a Zero-G assault or performing complex surgery, but we must begin to form ourselves into a team, and such interactions are the beginnings."

He calls and beckons to Kendrick, "Kendrick, come and be introduced to another friend of mine and her delightful companion.  Kendrick, I present to you Praetorian Jannissary Elsbeth, and her friend Nera Kalaperna."  Turning to his companions, "Elsbeth, Nera, my old friend Kendrick Johnson."

T'risa sat back enjoying her own company as she sipped at the wine. She was a little surprised to see so many of her new team knowing one another already. She was reminded of a discussion she'd had with Fleet Admiral J'nai over this very coincidence, knowing that the Fleet Admiral felt certain people had a connection no matter where they were and these people tended to congregate. She could almost feel those tangible connection between the group. Sipping at her glass of wine, T'risa enjoyed the warmth and the music as the group gelled together.

Stops in his tracks as his old friend introduces him to his companions. You can see a smile cross his lips seeing the two ladies with Bruce.

"hello, a pleasure to meet you both"

So a day or two after the ship shopping but while the others are still deciding on what to get next, Tal will go out into the city and look for a game to play in order to see if he can get some extra funds for a second ship or whatever.   Realizing that their funds are meager at best and possibly some extra cash might be in order.   He will take only 5,000 cr. and play both cards and bet on the local races.   At the end of the day he will apprize both T'risa and Nera of his progress via commlink.   In the process of trying to acquire more funds he will keep his eyes and ears open for any information about the war, "She" or anything else of use to us as a group.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:11, Sat 19 Sept 2015.

Tal strolls into the bar and walking up to the bar itself asks the barkeep about the local gambling scene in a discreet manner all the while ordering a non alcoholic drink.   He will start his carousing in the hopes of some information will be spilled by the various patrons.   (Tal is not adverse to buying a few rounds while at the bar.)   After about an hour and a half at the bar, Tal will quietly leave for the gambling house.

When he arrives at the gambling house, he will take a moment to inform those in the know within the group what he found out, leaving the analysis to them.   Tal will find a quiet place to call both Nera and T'risa, most likely the bathroom or some such.   If he can't get them in person, then he will leave a message on their comms.


04:17, Today: Tal Atvar rolled 6 using 2d6.  2nd carousing roll (Hammer and Sword).
04:15, Today: Tal Atvar rolled 2 using 2d6.  1st carousing at the Hammer and Sword.

04:31, Today: Tal Atvar rolled 4 using 2d6.  streetwise roll (Hammer and Sword)

Tl spends a couple of hours buying drinks and chatting. The mostly Valkiir crowd is willing to talk, and eager to take advantage of the drinks. But what he collects is a hefty bar tab, and mostly dockside chatter about this ship, or that ship...or who is looking good at the track.Noting of any interest, or any reliability is forthcoming from the more working class patrons.

A quick trip to the tracks is not that hard, the entertainment area if mostly outdoors, with shooting ranges, arenas for everything from boxing to swordplay. And a massive open air track winding through town and out into the wilds for high speed grav bike races

The track is a major tourist draw since full contact, and unlimited races are held weekly and daily speed trials take place at all hours.The crowd here is a mix of locals, colonists from other regions and off worlders on various tourist junkets, and adventure holidays. From the lines a the betting booths, the valkiir, competitive strek, and tendency to bet on anything that moves is in full force

After the Hammer and Sword, Tal heads to the racetrack in order to gamble.   While enroute to the racetrack, Tal will leave messages for both Nera and T'risa about what ships are leaving the port.   The information may be of some use in the future, Tal didn't know how, it was just his job to try and get information for both ladies to use.   He phoned Alex, Bruce, Rick, Cain and Balkiir as to where he was going and what he was doing and all.

"Come and get me if anything changes, rescue me if need be or come and join the fun if you want in a couple of hours," Tal will say in the message to the men.   When he arrives at the track, Tal will try to find a host/hostess to ask about procedures, money limits, game locations and policies.   He will in turn carouse with the hostess hopefully and order something to drink, that is non alcoholic and something light to eat.   He'll do more carousing until his food and drink are ready.   When it is ready he'll find a nice quiet place to sit down and eat.   While eating he will just sit there, listening to and watching everyone eat, doing this in the hopes of getting something juicy.

If asked by the hostess or by security about my glasses, he will assure them that they are harmless to the establishment by un-tinting them and will even allow them to see for themselves that they are just standard DD/R glasses, with no calculating ability for mathematics at all.   Tal will warm up his gambling muscles at the Blackjack table, trying to carouse there.   From there he will then go to the poker tables and try to carouse there as well by buying a few drinks etc.

14:21, Today: Tal Atvar rolled 8 using 2d6.  carousing at the blackjack  table if possible (conversing, buying drinks etc.).
13:32, Today: Tal Atvar rolled 11 using 2d6.  carousing at the poker table if possible (conversing, buying drinks etc.).
13:31, Today: Tal Atvar rolled 7 using 2d6.  gambling at the poker table.
13:30, Today: Tal Atvar rolled 5 using 2d6.  gambling at the blackjack table.
13:29, Today: Tal Atvar rolled 5 using 2d6.  streetwise roll the whole time.
13:29, Today: Tal Atvar rolled 6 using 2d6.  streetwise roll the whole time.
13:29, Today: Tal Atvar rolled 12 using 2d6.  carousing until food and drink are brought.
13:28, Today: Tal Atvar rolled 6 using 2d6.  carousing with the host or hostess.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:24, Tue 22 Sept 2015.

"Greetings Tal.  I am with T'risa and the ship broker, discussing the the outfitting of our home for the near future.  If time permits, I'll join you later for a little action, assuming you have left any to be had.  I hope you meet with good fortune."

OOC- I believe this is a couple days after the ship shopping and set up, while they are doing all the work we asked for.

After getting the call Alex makes his way to Tal, he moves with ease in the crowd, nodding to people a drink finds its way to his hand, it's hard to say by looking if it is alcoholic or not, seems almost too generic. He is wearing khaki shorts that are too old, hiking boots, and a T-shirt with a black vest of many pockets stylized with the angel on the back. He has multicolored round specs and he pockets them when he sees Tal Gaming, his eyes show friendly recognition.

Good Greetings my friend, it is Alex, are you finding the game you enjoy?
He gives his name and leaves Tal the opportunity to use a pseudonym if desired.

He looks at the location judging it to be an innocent appearing tourist trap for gambling, but he suspects it is really a wretched hive of scum and villainy and so he keeps his awareness at maximum vigilance, watching for trouble.

Alex joins in for some gaming with Tal and others, he stays cautious betting only a few hundred but plays easily.

22:29, Today: Alex rolled 13 using 2d6+2.  Int + gamble.
22:29, Today: Alex rolled 6 using 2d6+4.  Int or EDU + streetwise.
22:34, Today: Alex rolled 1 using 1d2.  random odd is dangerous even is safe.

rolled 1,1 to judge the venue and crowd, arbitrarily consider it a very dangerous place regardless of weather it really is.

This message was last edited by the player at 02:38, Wed 23 Sept 2015.

In reply to Alex (msg # 80):

"Hi Alex, it's Tul Advair, it's so good to see you again.   These Human games are what I played on the ships I was on but give me a good Cesti Baklec* game any day.   Are those pesky little bees done with the alterations yet, I hope so, the mistress can be so cross when things aren't done the way she wants them."   Tal will say in both exasperation, with an air of a servant and in a show of relief that anyone can see is genuine.   When he is done with the current hand, he'll get up and personally walk off with Alex, still talking about innocuous things.   Taking Alex to a fairly public place that is secluded but noisy.   The most secluded one we can find, once we sit down, Tal will order a non carbonated drink of some sort and something light on the stomach.   When Tal orders he'll ask if, "Alex, you want something, the Nachos, are to die for."

When his food and drink and when Alex's stuff arrives they will sit down while eating and exchange information about this and that in order for Tal to give Alex the rundown on what he found out.   When done Tal will get up, mentioning that he is going to the track to bet on some races and that Alex could come along if he wants.   "Another pair of eyes and ears wouldn't hurt anyway, you've been lucky ever since I've known you," Tal says to Alex in a genuine friendly way and by showing it with a pat on the shoulder.

*Baklec: is a Cesti game of combatants using (KLINGON) Batleths or highly lethal but both ceremonial and decorative swords, while using their natural weapons and senses.   It is a cross between UFC, MMA, Thai kickboxing, boxing and dance.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:58, Wed 23 Sept 2015.

I am not familiar with your Baklec, do they have such a thing among the races here? Alex says, looking around as if he expects someone to jump him from the shadows.

He orders the Nachos taking Tal's advice. He eats and listens to Tal


Yes, I have not always been lucky but often enough when in need. I would indeed enjoy departure to another extablishment. This place ... It reminds me of something...
He says pausing, as he is convinced this place seems too perfect to be real. He can't put a finger on it exactly. But the way they act like a normal shipyard entertainment facility is grating where's the boss? It just seems a little odd.
I understand you were one of the soldiers back on TaumTan when I was ... Eh ... In need of retrieval... Yes?
That was a tough time... Where have you been since the ?
This message was last edited by the player at 10:44, Wed 23 Sept 2015.

"That was a hairy time," Tal says in answer to his question about the rescuing of Alex.   His expression is for a brief moment, a thousand yard stare, reminiscing about a perceived battle or not.   "What have I been doing since my time in the military, you ask, well I've been a scout for four years, spent some time on the seedier side of life, through no fault of my own, of course," Tal will say with a sheepish grin.  "And I spent sometime in the brig as it were, being rescued from myself while in jail, by a beautiful blonde bombshell, in a red dress with blue eyes of a TAU woman.   Now I'm here on this planet working illegitimately and gambling my life savings just to make more money"
This message was last edited by the player at 19:23, Wed 23 Sept 2015.

Seedier side of life. Alex repeats.
And jail, and a bomb shell woman sounds like a good story my friend.
...
Tell me, you said something when I joined you about money and information- are you not here just for enjoyment before our travels? I do not think our boss-T'rissa is in need - her funding seems sufficient, I invested what I could but I suspect it was only a rock in the void after I am seeing the ship.

"It's a long story and I'll tell it to you later," Tal responds hurriedly in answer to the first part of Alex's question looking both left and right, unnerved by something he'd just figured out.   "Well in answer to your question of money and information, I thought we could supplement our funds quickly by gambling some.   It's quicker than investing."   Tal will look both ways both left and right and in a hushed tone respond to the mention of the ship and T'risa's funds.   "T'risa's funds may be adequate but mine are not."   Continuing in that hushed tone Tal states, "I thought we could get information about what the people are getting and saying for that matter about the war, various ships leaving or coming into port and other such information in general.   In wartime there's always speculation about who's fighting who, and what really is going on etc."

"In fact, that ship that's in the news, the Inga Rhae left this very not more than two weeks ago."   Responds Tal in that same hushed tone and with an air of recognition in his voice.   "I just put two and two together just now after having heard something about it from my two hour bar hop to the Hammer and Sword today.   It was just one ship among many that have gone missing or that have come and gone to the port.   I just thought that many ears were better than just two."

The tall man has been stooped through the discussion over their food. He nods at his partners discussion.
Your instincts, my friend, are astounding. . He says quietly.
I too, have some experience in these things, though I am somewhat out of practice and have been less active in the nepharious lately.
...
Still - if you would have my help I have some thoughts. There are things here that remind me of a sting I was involved with decades ago. So I recomend we make our way to the races.

Alex finishes and pays, he is wary of the wait staff only smiling as they approach and paying with minimal discussion. He is used to being ignored due to his low social status, and when they are done he (and Tal hopefully) make their way toward the races.

He explains on the way. In most cities, gambling is more successful on games were others compete rather than gambling games. For cards and others you compete with others, some of them will usually be better and it's hard to win. Here you bet on the outcome.
One trick is to find out what big bosses are doing, what races are rigged? Legally or not... And ride their coat-tails yes? Now you are not competing anymore. We can do this here...

How much do you want to bet?

Alex will take much of the time using streetwise /int to figure out what races or events will be rigged, or what events will be most helpful to the criminal powers. Use the result of that roll to add effect to get a bonus on gambling. Then Tal and Alex can put their resources into a solid high value bet.

EDIT: EDIT: cut out the second part. put it back since GM used it

At some point in the crowd, Alex buys a wallet and stuffs 50Cr in it. They step out of the crowd and speak subtly.
Now for information, yes? People like me, or like I've been are poor and unnoticed. They live under the others. They have more information that the working people at the bar ... We can find one - several are here you catch bees with honey do you not?

Alex puts on his rainbow rowdy glasses and puts the wallet hanging halfway out of his pocket. He grins like a country bumpkin on his first visit to the city. This is a trap for a pickpocket.

Streetwise / edu to be a perfect target. Streetwise/Dex to catch the thief by the hand. Streetwise/int or maybe use inverse social, to get a bonus for my low social status to convince the thief to stay with me that I will let him/her have the money after sharing food and talking.  Then I'll use interrogation with a bonus from the effect of the convincing roll to get info from the urchin or others maybe go meet a whole group of pickpockets. I'll roll later
This message was last edited by the player at 03:46, Sat 26 Sept 2015.

Tal will indeed get up when Alex does and will walk beside him while Alex is reciting what he is doing.   All through Alex's talking, Tal is thinking that maybe Alex might have to teach him something about this type of behavior.   Tal has the rudimentary knowledge of such things, it seems his friend has much more than that.   When Alex had asked how much he wanted to spend on the high valued bets, Tal was taken aback but only for a moment because he was so intently listening to Alex's plan which was better than his that Tal Atvar was impressed and the fact that he had to take stock of how much money he had spent on this little excursion already.

"I have 11.5k left after the expenditures so far, I can put it all on one or multiple bets," whispers Tal into Alex's ear.   After that, Tal turns his attention back to the crowd, as Alex puts his scheme into action.   If this worked than by all means, Tal would ask Alex to tutor him in the ways of subterfuge.

Alex concentrates for a moment as if in prayer. Then they work together to talk with the locals, analyze public data and get to know the flow of the street, major gangs and bets in order to find the race or fight that seems is the best payout to the local bosses.

Alex nods, yes I agree we shall try. One time is good ... If you follow the crime-boss too many times, the crime boss will notice you.He takes all of Tal's money and his own (2,300 for me, save 40 for dinner if fail)
And places the bets.

Alexandrite for the win, Sir.
Yes, Sir - all of it.


8:31, Today: Alex rolled 13 using 2d6+4.  Gambling (doesn't include streetwise effect).
Total benefit from streetwise could be -2 up to +1 if it's +1 which is likely there is a potential for a +6 effect!
Looks like a success no matter what, hopefully we had some lucrative odds because I'm thinking this was a day's work.

If effect is +1to+5 add +1 to the above roll, if -1 then -1, if -2 or more then -2
18:30, Today: Alex rolled 11 using 2d6+6.  Streetwise to support gambling. Includes Psi.
Effect +3 if DM +0, +1 if DM -2, -1 if DM -4, -3 if DM -6
Tal if you want to roll an assist on this and you get 8+ you can improve my roll
If you get 7- you can worsen my roll unless GMS rules that aid is only positive.

18:30, Today: Alex rolled 10 using 2d6+4.  Enhanced awareness. Adds Psi, +2 to all skills until I fail a check successful
This message was last edited by the player at 23:11, Fri 25 Sept 2015.

The track was busy as the infamous Nomad transit hub in the main city. Peple jostled and passed each other, but with some shrewd work the pair spotted what they were hoping for. a light fingered Human youth, with a sly smile as he began to trail Alex not at all put off by the crowd or appearance of his mark.

The thug watched as Alex made his bets then waited, watching Alex more than display for the big race.

Alexandrite wines at a 2 to1 rate...the crowd seems suprised that the obscure rider manages to even finish the  race after a near crash in an earlier race.
OOC
It takes a while for you to attract the attention of a criminal type. Valkiir are inatey hard to pickpocket...and violent toward petty theft..But after placing a few bets on information you gather simply by watching for patterns of betting by some less than honest looking sorts you can pick up on their pattern and follow it.

if ya dont mind wwe'll reorder the events so you nab your sucker after the race while he was trying to lift your wallet...

Roll 2d6 using you melee unarmed , if you don't have unarmed specialization use a +0 (from melee)+str mod

Very good my friend - says Alex as he hands Tal his winnings on a data wafer. 34.5k total including what you put up
We can discuss later if this is what you wanted or if you wish to take further risks.

I am much happy.

They continue to present themselves in the crowd when the thief strikes Alex spins, holding on.

23:47, Today: Alex rolled 8 using 2d6+3.  melee unarmed/dex.
If successful: Alex turns quickly taking the thief's arm hooked with his own and brings the fellow into an embrace.
If fail: Alex turns quickly but the thief backs off and Alex smiles wide putting psionic energy into his charisma to quickly gain the man's trust.

put 6, Psionic points into Boost Charisma
00:01, Today: Alex rolled 8 using 2d6+3.  personal enhancement. Use 6 Psi points new Psi is 3. Persuade skill now 3 from 0 for length of this interaction

Either case dialogue the same.

Good greeting brother! Alex says seeming to know the man, Ha you've found your wallet, here take it, there are 50 CR left, Thank you for loaning it to me, your good friend, Alex. This is Tal, he is cool, like us.
_{We mean you no harm, we are alike, please speak with me a little while and keep the money.}

Can my friend and I buy you lunch? We can go where you would like for a short chat, say ... 20 minutes and a meal?

00:08, Today: Alex rolled 9 using 2d6+3.  persuade, not including attribute or aware.

I have -2 Soc, if that is +2 because of his Soc then I will use that, otherwise use Int or EDU +1 plus any DM for giving him the money.
used up psi points so no longer have awareness bonus
This message was last edited by the player at 14:57, Sat 26 Sept 2015.

Tal is impressed when Alex talks to him about their earnings and resists the urge to say "lets do it again" because it wasn't wise to tempt fate or the house especially since getting funds weren't why they were really here.   When the little thief made his move, Tal was ready to help Alex nab the little cretin, even though he tried hard not to look at the wallet, or in other words, being anxious for the trap to be sprung.

12:50, Today: Tal Atvar rolled 8 using 2d6+2.  melee unarmed.

Are you guys cops?"the thief asked seeming to be more confused than afraid. the unexpected move by Alex completely taking him out of his prepared fight or flight response. He almost handed the wallet back looking at it as if it were a live grenade,minus the pin.." What are you guys up to?"

No my friend. We are doing our homework for a job. Alex looks knowingly.  You understand I hope.

Alex walks with the thief and Tal. My friend, Tal has some questions, I was looking for an information source. Do you have one? Somebody who know all the local action. We want to be sure we aren't stepping in places we shouldn't if you know how I am saying.

...

Of course we don't expect anything for free.

"My good fellow I do have some questions about the illegal underpinnings of this particular port and the various starships that have been coming and going to this port of call, besides the various attacks on these very ships after they leave this starport.   If you cannot answer these questions could you see your way to giving us an introduction to the ones that would know.   Rest assured, I've already got the various ships from a working class bar.   I'm not wanting what they were carrying so much as the scuttlebutt about where and why they were attacked and destroyed."   Tal stated to the pick pocket once they were in a secluded place so that they meaning Alex, the sneak thief and himself could talk despite the overly loud racetrack.

Do you know who or what the ship Inga Rhae was carrying?
Why would pirates attack such an armed ship?    Who stands to gain from such attacks since this is only one of many such attacks?   Where do the bad guys hang out (known port of call)?   What pressure if any can be done to stop these attacks?   Can we (as a group) stage an ambush for information, resources, contacts for future considerations etc.?
Probably the most Important; What is it that you want for this information (to the crime boss or the informant)

We want to get a little more about other ship attacks and also find out if it's just business or if there is some fervent political or fanatical background for attacks or criminal activity that might relate to a foreign sponsor (She)   Also what can we find out about the Omaeda Coven? and their behavior off planet .
This message was last edited by the player at 00:42, Thu 01 Oct 2015.

" Hey, I'm just some goof on the street here guys." The punk shook his head, "You want someone in with the Circle..or one of those crazy Tau witches....I dont go near those crazy bitches. They'll cut your set off just for looking at their...assets...if ya know what I mean."


"Give me say a hundred, and hand me your phone...I'll give you the number to a guy I know.let him know swiggy sent ya. And for another hundred, I'll send anyone who comes asking around the other way....even I know not to ask about those ships."

Tal willingly hands the punk 100 cred note and his personal network device in order so the lad can input the information.   "There is an extra fifty credits in it if you dial the number and introduce us to this fellow on the other end of the call."   Tal said to the punk as he handed the kid the phone.   In fact, Tal will show the kid the 150 credit wafer just to show he had it and will continue the conversation by saying,"Do you know where we could a reputable informant for future information on the city."

Alex watches the young man through his glasses looking for signs of deciet.

19:58, Today: Alex rolled 5 using 2d6.  Read aura. - fail

The punk too the notes, and the phone tapped in a number and waited for a moment. "Suri, yeah it's Jao, Listen these two guys I know need to talk.......yeah...yeah...Nah....I still got all my teeth...Alright, just save me a slice next Thursday...see ya."

He hung up the phone and tapped in an address and a time." Fifty minutes, Corner of Jestrafuhr, and Menace."

The punk held out the phone. and looked expectantly at the two.

OOC: he seemed to be speaking honestly, but you don't know what was said on the other end."

"That's all," was all Tal said somewhat dejectedly but then livened up by saying,"You want the job of keeping us informed on the various comings and goings of all parties, whomever they may be for within the port or city in other words."

Looking at his PND for the current time and at the eta of 50 minutes and the location of the meet and got an eta for getting there along with the route to said location, Tal turned to Alex and asked, "If they had acquired a vessel to travel the stars in," and if they, meaning Alex, Swiggy and himself could both go see it and place their possessions on it before the meet, if possible and if not, than after.   Swiggy would come along and meet the Marshal, in the hopes that he wanted the informant job.   Possibly T'risa or Nera would find the need for additional information from time to time, hence the need for an informant, Tal thought.

" I just gave you two pieces of information, The name of my friend, and to stay the hell away from the ships thing...everyone on the street knows that's a fishy deal, and someone is being real harsh on anyone who asked to many questions...<Blue>"The kid shrugged. But you guys look like you can handle yerslef,.."

My number is in the Jao Sinclair...freind's call me Swiggy.....now if ya dont mind i got enough to handle pay my bookie off and I amm out of here....Don't mess with Suri, she'll break parts that don't like to be broken."


Word to you, Circle ain't like a lot of offworld outfits. They don't put people in the river,But they put them in the hospital for a very, very, long time. Combat vets all of them...and they KNOW when yer trying to pull something." At the last comment he tapped his temple knowingly.

Alex nods. We just want to be friendly and avoid the wrong trouble. It is nice to have a map of where trouble might be sleeping, yes? May your good fortune continue

When the fellow scuttles off, Alex takes a moment to compose himself. He looks worn, beat - like it's been a long day already.


00:45, Today: Alex rolled 8 using 2d6.  tapping.
Drain physical attributes to refill psi points.

He looks at Tal,
That was my truth. I don't want to spook anyone.

With the two pieces of info, Tal feels dejected and thinks, well, so much for an informant.   Looking how worn Alex looks and feels, Tal will both help and guide his friend to a more serene location, away from the hustle and bussle of the entertainment center, where they can talk in private about the next move.

When in private, Tal will ask Alex about the specifics of the ship and get his impression of the next stage of their information gathering, i.e. should they make precautions, bring weapons, bring more funds etc.   Maybe more importantly involve the legendary captain and the marshal in the next little bit of negotiation.   Once Alex gets his wind back as it were, Tal suggests that they put into motion their plans and head towards the location.

OOC: Specifics of the ship?

Alex braces himself - It is alright my friend - I was just changing my energy around. It helps no?

He nods at Tal's suggestion,

Yes, weapons - it is easier to trust a man when he doesn't hide his arms

Alex opens his backpack and takes out a very high tech alien looking energy pistol that he hangs on his hip over his cargo shorts.

Now, we should prepare, No? we can go fly over it early and recon before the meeting, or what do you have in mind?

Looking at Alex's pistol, Tal says, that he is better with rifles but will ask if they have enough time to get a slug pistol before the meet.   "As to plans, I think it prudent to let the others know where we are going and why, and to come running if we don't return within an hour or so.   What do you think, Alex?"

That is excellent, my friend ... If you wish to go shopping that is well but I did not intent to imply that carrying a weapon is required just that I'd rather have it be UN-concealed as we do not wish to spook anyone, if they scan or frisk they will be nervous on finding concealed weapons.

Otherwise I believe once you leave contact with our crew we can leave our location markers on and go to the meeting.

We can check our comms for a gun shop near the meeting if you like we can shop before or after ...

Somewhere in the city a microfighter lands. This microfighter is a TAE Army design for close air support as can be noted by large yellow and black cavalry shield on the bottom as it flies over. It is quiet and looks essentially like a Toyota Prius to eyes from our world except it flies upside down and backward from that ancient ground car.

It is flatter on top with a bulging belly and flat front. A series of black gunmetal cylinders barely emerge out the bottom pointing forward and another small powered gun port is on the front right side.

The whole thing is camouflaged actively shining the color that is behind it except for the cavalry symbol on the sloped trailing edge which is only visible when the thing flies ahead and above the viewer. It would be difficult to notice if not for the large black storage pod held on the nearly flat convex roof.

The CAS vehicle comes down in the parking lot of a hotel near the shipyard where there is room in the parking area. Small struts emerge from the thick armored skin to hold the vehicle stable and the entire top opens up like a clamshell.

The interior of this tiny vehicle is all equipment and an assortment of webbing for modular "seating". There are no panels or other structures the whole vehicle is like a clamshell of armor with drives built within a pipe hull.

Out of the Vehicle swims an orange M'nKuhl who is unique in that she is covered in scars injuries and tattoos. The tattoos have military and scholastic motif's with a large Cavalry shield and Gunnery sergeant's stripes.

When she exits the clam closes and beeps to indicate a seal. She floats up into the air looking around for someplace to eat.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:34, Sun 18 Oct 2015.

In reply to Alex (msg # 105):
"I concur we shouldn't have our weapons concealed and I don't really need another firearm since I'm competent in unarmed combat, I just would like to feel a little safer if we both had some more show of available security."   Replied Tal to Alex's retort.   "You feel up to heading towards the meet now and if we just happen to come a gun shop, well...?"   Replied Tal to Alex's renewed vigor all the while dialing T'risas contact number to inform her of both the meet and to come running if trouble came a calling.

Yes, comfortable.

The young man did not seem duplicitous,  well no more than expected.
Alex smiles.
We have given the boss's no reason to see us as a threat.
We are meeting an informant, not a boss who wants money and knows you to be very generous. I do not think we need extra show. We just need to communicate and avoid any threats.
....

So - unarmed combat? Then your best weapon is always and never hidden? This is true for me as well. 
He taps his head.

"Well if your feeling up to going to the meet early, I like the idea of scoping it out for any possible threats very reassuring."   Replied Tal as he finished his message to T'risa and started to move towards the meeting location on foot.   "I also like the idea of putting our markers in place before hand."   Continued Tal as he was walking away.

Alex walks with Tal to the neighborhood of their meeting. He checks the comm map for any shops nearby and specifics about the address.

The neighborhood is a bit rough, not dirty, not run down, but the feeling of eyes on there backs let The duo know they are in a place where mistakes could be messy. The adress is a butchers shop, a staple of any neighborhood.

A dozen young women stand outside talking, smoking, insulting one another with flair, and gusto. They eye the duo as they approach and spread out like a pack of hungry wolves.

"So, what brings you down to the 2300s..." One asked sliding smoothly beside Alex, hand running up his arm."This is a rough neighborhood for a handsome Tae like yourself why don't you let me show your around...I know a few nice quiet places."


"Yo can have him," The largest of the group smiled at Tal, "I like this  one...wanna come back to my place for some fun?"

a series of rude jokes, biologically focused joke, catcalls, and one hand out of the crowd finding a place it should not be followed the "introductions"

Alex checks his messages on the walk. When confronted he is completely comfortable, while this is a different planet these are his people the rough neighborhoods are where he's been living all his life.  He knows they can be dangerous but so can he, only he is not mean.
Oh my- I was believing it was being all-business around here but you look so good I could consume every bit.
 Good and I mean really good greetings to you,love. Yes sweetheart I will take some protectiion, do we need to write up a contract? You promise not to betray my trust? What's your name?
Alex keeps the bawdy humor going with implications among others that: there's enough of me to go around, and around and perhaps even around. he says with a smile and a lewd look but keeping it from being serious. But do not you worry, any contract we make even just words I will keep if you will.

My friend and I visit here only a few days but I am expecting to return and spend some money with my friends.

Right now we have some time before meeting. do you ladies have a moment to chat or must you all work?

He speaks with the women keeping it lite and hopeful. He also looks around for a gun shop or a clothing store.

My friend is looking for something iron to wear and I need a suit for a party, is there something nearby?


16:36, Today: Alex rolled 7 using 2d6+3.  Broker. Actually a 6 (+2) for buying stuff if we get the chance.
I think I will end up with a thrift shop 30 year old pimp-out  zootsuit for the party (-:

16:35, Today: Alex rolled 9 using 2d6+4.  Streetwise Previous was error .
16:35, Today: Alex rolled 24 using 2d20+4.  Streetwise to assess how dangerous these women are
This message was last edited by the player at 14:02, Mon 12 Oct 2015.

Tal wasn't taken aback by the forwardness of the lady as she said and did as she wanted with him while out in the open, in fact, when her hand went wayward, either for his crotch or as a pat down, he was ready for the move with a move of his own, by spinning her around and bending her towards the ground and replying her gesture with a kiss to her lips.   Tal in turn straightened her up and then his comm phone beeped stating he had a message.   He said when he heard the beep after straightening her back upright, "Excuse me but I finally better take this, it might be important."   With that he'll look at the message about the party.   "Oh great a dinner invitation with someone important and I have nothing really formal to wear," he stated looking around for a formal ware shop or a clothing store near by.

"You, my pretty young friend, wouldn't mind helping me out with all that after my meet with Swiggy's friend, would you."   Tal continued as he was still embraced by the young lady and then let her go from the embrace with his biggest smile.   Tal looked at Alex and then at his watch to see the time and continued walking down the street towards the meeting place and time.

In reply to IooOoo'NackhAa (msg # 106):

HOOAH! IUOU shouts as she gets out of the heavily armored small car. She sheds her helmet and her "clothing" a sort of warming suit that can also act as distributive armor in a pinch. But M'nKuhl prefer to be as they are born unless they are cold and sometimes even then. Everything drops into the thick armored shell of a vehicle before the clamshell closes. IUOU hovers in the air bending and nodding until the large storage unit on top of the vehicle blooms open like a flower to show a solar array.

IUOU checks the surroundings and sets security on medium - alarm and radio contact - On; electrostatic armor -Off

She is the orange of a female somewhat faded by age. Her entire body crossed and strewn with green keloid scars and pale or dark engineered hide grafts. It looks like she was torn apart and put back together, which she was of course, in service to the TAE Army half a dozen times.

As many M'nKuhl do, she covered herself with tattoos to represent her status and career. The rank and status they achieve in traveling and hunting far afield translates to rank and respect in the herd durring mating runs. IUOU a has mated successfully several times and has several sons and most recently a daughter with all of her mo ther's bright fierceness. IUOU thinks of her children often as they grow in the traditional feeding grounds while the adults travel. She longs for the passage of time that she can return to see how they are growing. As always she will bring gifts from the Human worlds she visits and the enemies she destroys.

The most dominant tattoo is a new set of chevrons on her left side above the ventral wing/fin. It shows her rank as Gunnery Sgt.  on the right side is a large cavalry shield that is scarred over showing it to be prior to an old injury.

She has military ribbons tattooed on her chest and a police shield on her left flank a small scout service shield on the right with a sign of several small planets and systems embedded in a star map. On her dorsum there is a pair of large diplomas tattooed with university signs and a visual scan computer code that directs comms to her official publications in xenobiology.

Hooah? she asks no one in particular as she circles the hotel and flies off toward the nearest body of water.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:35, Mon 19 Oct 2015.

" All right you apes."  tall, and that was ta for even Valkiir. She stood nearly seven feet tall and wore a mix of rugged clothing and armor. Her long dreadlocks hanging to her waist, and stark silver-white." So your Swiggy's friends. Get in here before I have to get out a fire hose."

As the younger women scattered they smiled flirted and sent their contact info to the men<Blue>."Sorry about that men, are as rare as hens teeth around her this time of the day."

The woman chuckled and motioned them into the store.with a slight smile and bit of affection she spoke. " So you know that little twerp Swiggy?"


"He says you need some info.... what ya need me for?"

Hello, I am being Alex, this is my friend Tal. We met Mr Swiggy at the races. He was working, when we took a moment to get to be knowing each other he was very eager to help us on our way. Alex says with a knowing smile, certain this lady could fill in the details. Funny kid, that "oh shit" expression when being caught, he was reminding me of my own youth.

We are not being here to compete, or be playing in the scene. We have other jobs. we do not tell stories. We help friends. We value information. To be completely honest I am being deputized as some kind of temporary Marshal deputy, you may find in my background next week. But I am not being cop. I do not have any interest in local crime unless... My friend who is helping me wants me to have interest.

He lets it rest a moment.

Tal has been seeing a disturbing coincidence of starship attacks. We are wanting to understand more about this and the people involved.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:42, Tue 20 Oct 2015.

In reply to IooOoo'NackhAa (msg # 114):

~ Unidentified flier you are entering restricted airspace, please direct yourself to landing pad two one six Echo for entry." the voice crackled over a local frequency. the hotels security system not recognizing IUOUs transponder as a guest. as soon as she left the sight she heard the recording stop and the tickle of radar across her skin vanish.

near the waterfront several M'n'kuhl were diving and swooping over a rich bait ball of fingerlings. emerging with full mouths and  squeals of delight at such rich fishing so close to shore.

a pinprick of light burst up from the depths as a ball of brightly glowing plasma emerged, danced and darted squealing in the radio spectrum as it played tag with eh trio of juvenile M'n'Kuhl. the rapidifre chatter too fast for anyone but a native speaker to follow..their speech overlapping across a dozen frequencies and blurring together in the way of very young podmates who hadn't quite got the hang of focusing their signals so someone outside the pod could follow the conversation. their accent odd to, definitely locally born and raised.

gotyanoyadidnt,uhhuh,nopenopenopenope,yepgivemefishIgotyah,nopenopenopnahnahnahneeeeecantcatchme!!! ooooooo new playmate....ummm are those uh..whatsits...guns...yeah guns....oooohhhh she's a solberer..soldier silly she's a soooolllllddddiiiiieeerrrrrrrrr

IUOU swoops around looking at the pod of younglings. She is hungry but doesn't want to approach before knowing the local custom.

As she circles she gives clear body signal for being friendly and seeking welcome. She does have gun tattoos along with her others but is not carrying any equipment or clothing save the internally attached neural link and the Comm that is connected to it and fastened on her back.

yeyeyesyesyessoldierrrr she says to the others, Foooood? FffFriend, Ballllttttiiiiiime? she adds. She looks around for signs of any adults in the area.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:42, Fri 23 Oct 2015.

In reply to Alex (msg # 116):

Tal just remains silent as Alex takes the lead in speaking and will gesture either an affirmative or negative when needed.   He will look around constantly, clearly nervous around such an impressive looking individual.   He will even look at his watch to indicate that time is of the essence.

"We have a dinner to go to with some high ranking people and my friend and I need tuxedos to wear," he'll say when he catches a weird look from the contact for being to antsy and by way of explanation.   "Have you ever ate with the High Commissioner BloodGlutton before?"   He further asks the lady.

Odd you should ask about the ships, and mention The bloody bastard in the same conversation." The woman motioned and one of the women in the room stood up and headed outside. A few seconds later two burly Valkiir men, and a warhound class cyberoid, emerged from the back room heading out front. combat armor and weapons worn without concern.

You really should leave that subject alone, it's not a simple corporate dispute,...its a nasty bit of work..crews dead, passengers dead...cargo dumped..ships wrecked...not taken." She spoke softly. The bastard is in charge of the investigation for Local defense. He came over from Quetzl high command to look into it...Not a typical piracy investigation."

  "the ships hit are not owned by the same company, and their cargoes are almost always military cargoes..Six agents were put on the local investigation....they all ended up dead, and so did a couple of the Omaeda who were paid to dig up dirt...they died in nasty ways..and so did some of their family....I told my girls to stay clear and keep everyone of our ...friends to stay clear and not ask around."

You can look into it if you like, but don't ask me, or my people about it...after today...its not likely anyone has figured out your interested yet...then again I get the feeling you might want to pack more than a side arm with you for the next couple of days..and hang close to that ship you just bought

she tapped her temple knowingly.

All military cargos? Nothing being taken ? All killed. I'm sorry this is sounding like an enemy spy operation. Is this what you are thinking?

Do our underworld bosses know who is murdering on their turf?

Alex asks, then he ponders a moment, whistfully
There have been times in history, when an enemy is so cruel and the threat so severe that the Dons even help to protect soldiers that we can all defeat the enemy. I am thinking about history of mankind and Valkiir sometimes.

Are you knowing who is the enemy your world is sending ships and cargo to fight?
This message was last edited by the player at 22:45, Thu 29 Oct 2015.

"It looks that way to me..don't know what "The Bitch" thinks but We don't talk much." She snorted as she spoke the slang name for the O'maeda local boss.

We aren't real happy about it. If we knew who was calling the shots we'd whistle up some hearth Guard buddies and take them down. But, whoever it is has access to starships, and enough firepower to take down a ship, crew, passengers, and security...that's way out of our league."

  "We aren't planning on sitting the war out here in the bar." The woman assured Alex, But right now the best we can do is what we always do, give people the muscle they need to do business. " She looked mildly disgusted as she continued."The Coven has all the connections, and all the info...until they can tell us where to put our boot all we can do is stay out of the line of fire."

OOC Not sure I understand the structure of the underground bosses but this roll if needed is to be sure Alex understands.
00:51, Today: Alex rolled 12 using 2d6+3.  Understanding the structure.
Streetwise. I assume there are several crime lords of organizations. Are they divide turf by geography sometimes and business type others.
The Bitch is one, the Coven one, and there may be more .... Or is the Coven something else?

Alex nods thoughtfully. We each are playing a piece.  CASAR, the Marshals and the military have the firepower. But someone or many someone's are working to give up vital info that is getting that firepower destroyed.

... Would The Bitch, COVEN or any "business associates" have the power to know who is getting paid off? Who is giving info? Or even help ID the offices that must be giving up the flight path, time and manifests for these ships?

That's the working the underground can be strong that the military is weak in. You know things without asking new questions. How would you get the info if you were wanting to hit these ships? Is there anyone in that nerve center you would use that we know is getting extra cash for whoring and gaming?? That is someone Tal and I would visit assuming none of the bosses takes offense at us asking and risking our own skins.

You see - we are flying one of those military ships to the war. So involved we are. To be keeping our distance is like to close our eyes and be walking through the sewer, ignorance will not be keeping us clean. We mean to cut the spies and misinform the master. Then we mean to kill the hit squad when they come. Help may be needed after we draw the fire onto ourselves.

OOC: Alex give me a streetwise check 8+, and a social check.If you make you social check ad a +1 DM to your social check.

In reply to IooOoo'NackhAa (msg # 118):

As if by magic a half dozen Adult M'n'Kuhl popped out of the water in near perfect formation, two were equipped with manipulator frames and small arms the others were wearing sensor arrays. one sporting the logo of the local news agency, and radio station on his rig.

all squealed squelched and popped a greeting the accents varied showing they were form different bans but had formed a small pod of their own.

"Jaooooriiikiiii iiiiikiiiikooooosiiii kakhokrii" the leader of the pod introduced himself a big bull male with scars, and patches of skin discolored by old burns and abrasions introduced himself. "Joker" to humans. come. play. eat. talk. big fight/hunt coming. false kraken come soon. raid. kill. steal home/freind/pod. Need play talk eat first then hunt. kill. Drive kraken from home/freinds. big fun! make lots of new home/freinds!"

I assume you mean: if you make the streetwise add +1 to the Social
I rolled:
05:36, Today: Alex rolled 8 using 2d6+1.  Social.
-2 social +2 from streetwise +1 from adding with enhanced charisma

05:35, Today: Alex rolled 14 using 2d6+3.  Awarenes charisma.
Error - meant to be personal enhancement and would be +1 for total of 12

05:33, Today: Alex rolled 15 using 2d6+4.  Streetwise
beat the goal by +7 I think that means I can add +2 to the social

Alex glances over at Tal as he is speaking so see if he is going to add anything. Feeling the import of the moment he draws energy to put into his words and works to connect as he knows they would have the best chance of survival if the mobs would help with intelligence. The official channels and police are likely corrupted.

In reply to Prometheus (msg # 125):

Big fun! Yay!

IUOU dives in plays and eats with joy and abandon. She moves quickly in and out of the water and goes with the pod.

False Kraken? Machine? Kraken? Fish? Food?

She seeks to understand the hunt they want to make to consider if she should get a weapon or just hunt naked.

In reply to Prometheus (msg # 122):

Tal is pondering two seemingly innocent facts while the exchange is going on, and that is why he is keeping quiet.   One that our future host is involved somehow and that the Coven is in on the information already leave him a little unnerved with the powers that be already in the know, what else are they hiding?, especially his excellency, BLOOD-GLUTTEN.   With that Tal will voice, "With all the players staying quiet down here in the slums, underbelly of society or the city's undesirables etc., no disrespect intended, gesturing to the contact.   How do you know that much of what your saying is fact, I mean about the passengers and other noncombatants on those ships maybe they just disappeared like in the good ole days of yesteryear, been kidnapped or sold into slavery.   I mean someone talked or you wouldn't have that much information."    Tal than puts a hand on Alex's shoulder for support and to signal about the dinner party.   "Here is my contact information if anything else comes up."   Tal will say to her at last.   "Here is 2500 cr. for the information as well, thank you."   Tal says as well, holding out his hand to her for her to shake and to take the money.

" Alright, I'll make a call." The woman replied with a grunt.Waving away the credits She simply took a cell phone from her pocket and dialed a number by memory. followed by what seemed to be  security code when the other phone answered." I have two people looking into some shipping errors. Who do you have that can find out some info from inside the network....it's a personal favor...it's a bit risky...I'll give you the details personally, dinner tonight.."

a few seconds later the phone chimed as it received a data message. she took out a blank data chip, peeled off the protective wrapper and transferred the data to it." One use only it will burn itself out afterwards....now tell your skipper that her crew is annoyingly persistent...It may take a few days for the source to find anything out. and I am going to have to have dinner with an EX over this...One of you two better treat a lady to a damn fine meal in return...I'll call when I'm hungry..stay in touch..especially if anything interesting, or violent happens."

OOC: a woman comes in from the back room with a pair of packages and sets them on the table. Inside are toss away cell phones, fake IDs connected to a dead drop data/financial account. and a list of Net-mail accounts that messages can be sent to.

Joker breaks into a broad grin not a freindly smile considering how many small pointed teeth are exposed by his retracted gums. Kraken, ...not kraken.... made by men...hides. watches. listens. hunts ships...we find, we kill, man pod/friend happy...get guns..get frame...get freinds..we hunt big pod! take all friends..all guns...all frames..."

In reply to Prometheus (msg # 129):

Tal says to the lady after pocketing the credit chip again," if all this checks out all works out, and if the skipper is snippy of anything like this, I will take you to dinner myself in her place."   He says with a big smile upon receipt of the packages and leaves.

Alex smiles broadly at the woman. It was nice for Tal to give her money that she can pretend to the others to be acting for mercinary goals but he senses another truth.
He stands and shakes her hand.
Your choice can be makeing every difference in the war from right here in the bar. The other crews were not having this chance.
So, When we are calling...is it Suri? Or do we use a different name to be contacting you?

Suri will work nicely." Suri replied with a chuckle." If I am not willing to have my name connected with something I am doing...I don't do it."

Farewell then Suri, May our steps be guided, if you believing in such things.
Alex smiles - gathers what he's been given and steps out after Tal. He arranges the coms gear into his vest discretely and withdraws his own comm.

That was well. He says to Tal as they go back to the street. Now I must find something to be wearing... Will you be shopping for a side-arm? Or just return to the others?

He checks his com for something in the formalwear category expecting to go to the nearest place.

IUOU eats and plays signaling agreement with Joker she watches the others to see what kind of weapons they are preparing. Does anyone have vehicle or heavy weapons? She is deciding what toys to bring to this play date.

She finally indicates herself.
Soldier - big gun - Nut Shell Armor
She points back to shore and flies off if it's not overkill to return in her CAS microfighter.

In reply to IooOoo'NackhAa (msg # 135):

The rest of the group vanishes as in a display of aerobatics, and enthusiasm. by the time you return they have all gathered various bits of hardware, mostly civilian armor, and servo arms, gripping standard weapons. a few wearing surplus military hard shells. The Microfighter is the only purely military vehicle, but Joker has returned in a heavily modified construction shell, with a beam cutter attached to it.

the random squeaks, squeals and whistles had sounded playful and excited, now they sound rather ominous, more militant, and hostile as the group psyches itself up for a hunt. A Local Security craft is loitering outside the "don't get too close to angry M'n'Kuhl" limit with a pair of concerned security grunts standing in the open side door trying to figure out what's going on.

IUOU sends a message to the security forces by radio.

Hunt deep. Not hurt law friend human pod, happy!

" Confirmed, IooOoo'NackhAa..." the radio burst out in a squeal of translated M'n"Kuhl. followed by the echo of his micro-crafts transponder signature.


A moment later Joker let out a powerful Boom of radio and sonic noise, a hunting call that could stun most creatures within ten meters, if he focused it then streaked upward at full speed climbing with little regard for gravity as his own flight abilities enhanced by his rig pushed the M'n'Kuhl toward the ragged edge of the sound barrier. a call for Iuou to come up front with him following in his wake.

in their wake, a swarm of M'n'Kul trailed as they fought to match the pod leaders pace. soon the air grew cold and thin, and the sky began to darken toward blue-black,the curve of the world already noticeable.

the thin air and cold were no problem for the pod, their nostrils could seal and their own protective environment screen trapped warm air near their bodies as they reached the upper atmosphere where it was safe to transit to Hyperspace.

IOUO maintains a spot near the leaders, but not in any way challenging them. Her pod is not pressurized but she does have a helmet and partial protection in her flight harness that permits more comfortable transit, like a M'n"Kuhl Cadillac. Not quite a Rolls Royce but better than you'd expect for government work. She rides on in the hunt trying to guess who this leviathan is.

At altitude the pod transits, armed males and alpha females first weapons hot and a rapid-fire series of locating pulses sounding as the enter the hostile region of Hyperspace.

Huge drifts of ragged coral and debris fused into massive islands surround the planets gravity shadow. the sky is full of small swimmers and drifters while the rocks, and gravel piles are teaming with hard shelled, well protected local lifeforms.

a TAE frigate is on station over the normal commercial transit point, and navigation buoy and a number of trawlers are harvesting drifting xeno-plankton in the open space around the transit point.

Native M'n'Kuhl snap off a challenge warning the pod that they can hunt, but this is their chosen area. if they want to stay they will have to make a deal with the pods alpha.Joker angles wide of the pod, signaling they are passing through and extends a polite invite to join in the hunt for a dangerous predator.

IUOU banks and spirals into the new space giving wide berth to the local pod and juicing her own acceleration with the G drive in her pod. She makes no contact to the human traffic but flies with joy and abandon to the enemy following Joker's lead.

She checks her sensors on what else is lurking out in the general direction of the hunt hoping to be first to locate the potential enemy.




21:50, Today: IooOoo'NackhAa rolled 13 using 2d6+5.  Sensors

Several outriders pee off and begin to search the drifts for anything out of the ordinary. the small lean M'n"Kuhl leading them maneuvers with agility as she pokes and prods every niche with her sounding pings.


easily pulling ahead Iuou detects a faint signal, almost undetectable against the background noise of hyperspace. densely packed, and encoded in an unknown the signal is artificial, and definitely not based on any Human communications system.

IUOU tells Joker. Signal not friend indicating the location. She then decides there should be a backup and prepares a tight beam encrypted message to the TAE warship 'Beware, unknown contact' that she will send when the hunting Pod is ready to attack she begins including any data from the artificial signal in this packet now and records as they move closer.

As Iouo focused on the signal the object came into view, a mass of armored flesh, with half a dozen armored and segmented tentacles that were securing it to the large boulder it was using for  cover. Nearly the size of a large terrestrial shark it began to move, pulses of gravitic waves emanating from it clearing away dust and debris as it released its grasp and flared out its tentacles in an obvious threat display. Plasma building up in the center of the space created by it's outspread forward arcing appendage.

The shape and image caused an instinctive jolt of alarm and fear as the immature Krake revealed itself. too small to be a threat to any shipping it was definitely a threat to M'nKuhl.


It was also unusual to see one so small away from its parents swarm unless it was lost, or acting as a scout for the parent which was loitering concealed somewhere in the area.

IUOU contacts joker  Trap, where is parent? Is this what we hunt?

She flies out of its range for now in a flushing pattern checking sensors for other signals.

" No Mother, Only this  one...." Joker pulsed back in a very tight squirt, directed so that only IUOU could hear it.He sounded cautious as if not certain of his words.

"You, I, we strike, others herd,keep watch."

OOC:Not sure I'm doing this right but I will just move forward.

IUOU Moves at a distance and evaluates the leviathan. It is still dangerous but the hunt is on. After a recon she decides on a single aimed shot to start with. She fires one burst from her laser canon to see what happens.


21:59, Today: IooOoo'NackhAa rolled 20 using 6d6.  Damage.
21:57, Today: IooOoo'NackhAa rolled 10 using 2d6+4.  Gatling laser (recon not included ).
+ 1 for aim and I think + 2 for success at recon total 13
21:56, Today: IooOoo'NackhAa rolled 13 using 2d6+3.  Recon.
Recon to modify attack roll

Next I will open up on full auto.