[SWN] Pioneering for Beginners - IC

[Simpli]

The overseer of the unfortunate installation nodded lightly, reaching for the helmet of her suit and taking it off with one swift motion, before reaching to the neck of it, searching for a bit, before pulling out a long cylindrical pendant that must have been around her neck, unscrewing it and tapping lightly against its side. A moment later she showed the device to Tanith. Thankfully it seemed that the instrument had more than a passing resemblance to a few of the tools of her own trade and the spy was able to recognize a one-time emergency authorization when she saw it and played it into the communication suite. Giving the gathered bridge crew a small smile, the Overseer spoke clearly and pronounced:

"Lines of antennas to break the silence,
And beyond them other,
Lines of satellites,
And beyond them other,
Lines of antennas,
And beyond them others to break the silence."

The lines swept over the static and faint century old signs that still pulsed through the system, for a few long moments, till a small signal was directed towards the ship, nearly untraceable if Tanith hadn't been awaiting a return transmission. Before too long a voice was answering in the same slightly accented Mandate:

"An incomplete moon hangs lonely in the sky,
Reflected in the soulless mines of the orb below."

Then the signal broke off again, but not before giving you a set of coordinates and what looked like flight paths, the Overseer nodding lightly and giving a glance back at the pilot: It seems….that was it – was it?​

 

[Estro]

The overseer of the unfortunate installation nodded lightly, reaching for the helmet of her suit and taking it off with one swift motion, before reaching to the neck of it, searching for a bit, before pulling out a long cylindrical pendant that must have been around her neck, unscrewing it and tapping lightly against its side. A moment later she showed the device to Tanith. Thankfully it seemed that the instrument had more than a passing resemblance to a few of the tools of her own trade and the spy was able to recognize a one-time emergency authorization when she saw it and played it into the communication suite. Giving the gathered bridge crew a small smile, the Overseer spoke clearly and pronounced:

"Lines of antennas to break the silence,
And beyond them other,
Lines of satellites,
And beyond them other,
Lines of antennas,
And beyond them others to break the silence."

The lines swept over the static and faint century old signs that still pulsed through the system, for a few long moments, till a small signal was directed towards the ship, nearly untraceable if Tanith hadn't been awaiting a return transmission. Before too long a voice was answering in the same slightly accented Mandate:

"An incomplete moon hangs lonely in the sky,
Reflected in the soulless mines of the orb below."

Then the signal broke off again, but not before giving you a set of coordinates and what looked like flight paths, the Overseer nodding lightly and giving a glance back at the pilot: It seems….that was it – was it?​

Click to shrink...

Tanith frowned, flicking a couple of switches, the coordinates and flight paths saved in the bank. It was an unusually weak signal - do they lack the power for more powerful transmitters, or are they hiding?

Flickering out of her seat, she appears just behind the pilot, a small smirk on her face.

"Anything else you require, Lieutenant?"

Couple hours to the city, couple hours there, now home.

 

[gaiachild]

The overseer of the unfortunate installation nodded lightly, reaching for the helmet of her suit and taking it off with one swift motion, before reaching to the neck of it, searching for a bit, before pulling out a long cylindrical pendant that must have been around her neck, unscrewing it and tapping lightly against its side. A moment later she showed the device to Tanith. Thankfully it seemed that the instrument had more than a passing resemblance to a few of the tools of her own trade and the spy was able to recognize a one-time emergency authorization when she saw it and played it into the communication suite. Giving the gathered bridge crew a small smile, the Overseer spoke clearly and pronounced:

"Lines of antennas to break the silence,
And beyond them other,
Lines of satellites,
And beyond them other,
Lines of antennas,
And beyond them others to break the silence."

The lines swept over the static and faint century old signs that still pulsed through the system, for a few long moments, till a small signal was directed towards the ship, nearly untraceable if Tanith hadn't been awaiting a return transmission. Before too long a voice was answering in the same slightly accented Mandate:

"An incomplete moon hangs lonely in the sky,
Reflected in the soulless mines of the orb below."

Then the signal broke off again, but not before giving you a set of coordinates and what looked like flight paths, the Overseer nodding lightly and giving a glance back at the pilot: It seems….that was it – was it?​

Click to shrink...

Allayi Mirganiss

"Thank you." Allayi told the Overseer. Her gratitude sounded honest enough, though there was the slightest edge of condescension, as if she was telling a child it did a good job. "Our journey might take a few hours, so you may feel free to have someone show you the way to the mess hall, or quarters, whatever most strikes your fancy. Just be ready to be called upon when we initiate contact with your people again."

Tanith frowned, flicking a couple of switches, the coordinates and flight paths saved in the bank. It was an unusually weak signal - do they lack the power for more powerful transmitters, or are they hiding?

Flickering out of her seat, she appears just behind the pilot, a small smirk on her face.

"Anything else you require, Lieutenant?"

Couple hours to the city, couple hours there, now home.

Click to shrink...

Turning to face Tanith, she simultaneously started walking past her and replied playfully:
"Not at all, Officer. Your performance was well within my expectations. Unfortunately, so is your fashion sense."

She kept walking, clearly thinking she was done with the conversation. After rounding the next corner, she sent Tanith a text.
Be a dear and keep an eye on her, we wouldn't want her to get lost.

She then called the captain, verbally informing him that they got their coordinates and that, unless he objected, she would now fly them there.

With that out of the way, she arrived at Astrogation, took the helm and initiated takeoff.

 

[Simpli]

With the go ahead from their captain – which was rather short and curt, as he was seemingly in the middle of operating on the neck of private Harrison, to make sure that no splinters of the bullets or her armour remained in the wound- Lieutenant Mirganiss slid into her chair once more, the well drilled bridge crew that was currently awake beginning to support her with the standard procedure. Without any hitch, the ship took off once more, no one even felt a thing as the experimental spike drive equipped corvette took off from the destroyed installation and begun its way towards the coordinates supplied by the Overseer. The woman in question had disappeared from the bridge in the company of one of the crew members that had kept an eye on her and was now guiding her first towards the sickbay to catch up on her wounded, before she would head to the mess hall to join the rest of her remaining crew.

Meanwhile the corvette made good speed – even a moon wasn't that big, and it only took maybe half an hour to reach the first set of coordinates, at which point a tight beam was registered by the ship and spit out another set of coordinates: someone was seemingly trying to either be annoying – or through though with their security. For the next hour or so, the ship was stuck moving in zig-zag patterns across the surface of the moon, ever staying close as different small automated communication beacons supplied new directions and headings.

Only after passing five of these checkpoints, did the E.S.D.S. reach the city they were told about: and it was quite the sight. Before them a multitude f larger and smaller dome structures were erected on the surface of the planet – some big enough that whole fighter wings and cruisers might have fit into them back in the day – not that they were ever intended for that. Huge rents had been torn into most of the domes and you could see the debris of centuries scattered through them – but curiously not outside of them: someone had done their best to gather whatever could be used and had at least hidden the rest – just like the surface of the domes had been covered in dirt of the moons own surface or painted to look akin to it: with most of the structure set into an asteroid crater or something similar, it would have been hard to spot it by examining the moon from above: not impossible but hard.

From what had been in your briefing, the existence of multiple moon cities on this body had been known – and it seems like one of them had survived. It was in a sorry state, but below you, turrets and sensor platforms were scanning the sky, most of them pointedly aiming quite close to you – without aiming and actively seeking you out as target, but just to be sure. Thankfully the bridge crew was up to the task of politely readying their weapons and before things could take a turn for the ugly, a message came from down below: Inviting you to land in one of their refurbished hangars alongside their fighters, to give you the security of watching over their only mobile defences, while you unloaded your guests and opened contact to the city.​

 

[Estro]

Be a dear and keep an eye on her, we wouldn't want her to get lost.

Click to shrink...

The slab buzzed, and she glanced at it. A smile curved across her face, a knife opening a wound on her face to let teeth shine through.

With the go ahead from their captain – which was rather short and curt, as he was seemingly in the middle of operating on the neck of private Harrison, to make sure that no splinters of the bullets or her armour remained in the wound- Lieutenant Mirganiss slid into her chair once more, the well drilled bridge crew that was currently awake beginning to support her with the standard procedure. Without any hitch, the ship took off once more, no one even felt a thing as the experimental spike drive equipped corvette took off from the destroyed installation and begun its way towards the coordinates supplied by the Overseer. The woman in question had disappeared from the bridge in the company of one of the crew members that had kept an eye on her and was now guiding her first towards the sickbay to catch up on her wounded, before she would head to the mess hall to join the rest of her remaining crew.

Meanwhile the corvette made good speed – even a moon wasn't that big, and it only took maybe half an hour to reach the first set of coordinates, at which point a tight beam was registered by the ship and spit out another set of coordinates: someone was seemingly trying to either be annoying – or through though with their security. For the next hour or so, the ship was stuck moving in zig-zag patterns across the surface of the moon, ever staying close as different small automated communication beacons supplied new directions and headings.

Only after passing five of these checkpoints, did the E.S.D.S. reach the city they were told about: and it was quite the sight. Before them a multitude f larger and smaller dome structures were erected on the surface of the planet – some big enough that whole fighter wings and cruisers might have fit into them back in the day – not that they were ever intended for that. Huge rents had been torn into most of the domes and you could see the debris of centuries scattered through them – but curiously not outside of them: someone had done their best to gather whatever could be used and had at least hidden the rest – just like the surface of the domes had been covered in dirt of the moons own surface or painted to look akin to it: with most of the structure set into an asteroid crater or something similar, it would have been hard to spot it by examining the moon from above: not impossible but hard.

From what had been in your briefing, the existence of multiple moon cities on this body had been known – and it seems like one of them had survived. It was in a sorry state, but below you, turrets and sensor platforms were scanning the sky, most of them pointedly aiming quite close to you – without aiming and actively seeking you out as target, but just to be sure. Thankfully the bridge crew was up to the task of politely readying their weapons and before things could take a turn for the ugly, a message came from down below: Inviting you to land in one of their refurbished hangars alongside their fighters, to give you the security of watching over their only mobile defences, while you unloaded your guests and opened contact to the city.​

Click to shrink...

Tanith flickered to the bridge once they landed, the irreverent woman suddenly appearing ontop of her department's console.

"She's been normal. Didn't go anywhere we should care about, at least. Mostly the sick bay and the mess hall. Unless we're full of idiots instead of soldiers, she shouldn't have overheard anything, either. Not that that isn't a possibility."

Bouncing to her feet, she gestured at the door.

"Shall we go see what reception awaits us, or do you want to get into dress uniform?"

 

[gaiachild]

Tanith flickered to the bridge once they landed, the irreverent woman suddenly appearing ontop of her department's console.

"She's been normal. Didn't go anywhere we should care about, at least. Mostly the sick bay and the mess hall. Unless we're full of idiots instead of soldiers, she shouldn't have overheard anything, either. Not that that isn't a possibility."

Bouncing to her feet, she gestured at the door.

"Shall we go see what reception awaits us, or do you want to get into dress uniform?"

Click to shrink...

Allayi Mirganiss

Mentally, Allayi was grateful for the fact that her flight training had included lessons on keeping calm when foreign objects suddenly entered the flight-path of ones vessel with FTL speed, or similar hazards. These experiences were what enabled her to hardly even twitch when Tanith appeared out of nowhere.

"I know its is complicated to knock on automated doors, but do show a little more curtesy when dealing with our soon-to-be hosts." she chided with a dry tone.

"Regardless, I'll remain here until I have us safely docked. Furthermore, while I'd appreciate a chance to slip into a proper dress for a change, everone should at least make the attempt of appearing professional. So I shall await how our captain will deem fit to handle this occasion."

 

[Simpli]

As if awaiting that moment – or because it was clearly apparent that the ship was about to dock to the local installation, the communicators on everyone buzzed lightly as your captains voice came out clear, but a little bit tired. Soft murmurings could be heard, slowly fading as he moved away from them, boots clicking on the floor as he called out:

"Private Harrison is stabled and secured in the medbay till we return home – the overseer is talking to her wounded subordinates, with a few of the onboard security keeping an eye on them. You are to ready yourself for establishing official contact with the city on these moon as soon as we have made sure that our surroundings are clear and our ships defensive measures are able to deal with any treachery. But that aside, we will do our best to make a fitting first impression for Esrila."

His communicator crackled for a moment as he seemed to have moved from one level to another, most likely to seek out his cabin and dress uniform, in an attempt to get out his medical clothes:

"Lt. Mirganiss – you are to carry the official introduction package the Navy has given with us, the wood inlaid version please – exchanging gifts and reminding them of the legitimacy of our posting, might be important.

Ensign Kinsky, you are to follow the ancient tradition of your rank and carry the banner of our space forces with us, when we go aboard, maybe too archaic, but it sure is official.

Specialists Tanith? You are to get into standard uniform and join the three security officers that will bolster our two marines as landing party, I don't want them to know what you can do, till we know more about their reaction to psychics and their intentions. Worst case you are needed to warn the ship.

Lastly – Gunnery Chief Regith. Corporal Haye and you are to choose three of the onboard security to act as escort when we depart, I want it martial and official, we are a warship and we need to show our strength alongside our goodwill. Just please ask Private Allison to leave back her machinegun in favour of a combat rifle for today. For the duration of this operation, Specialist Tanith is to fall in line with you – I don't want anyone gunning at her, when we need her.

That is all – ready for second contact in twenty minutes!"

 

[Estro]

As if awaiting that moment – or because it was clearly apparent that the ship was about to dock to the local installation, the communicators on everyone buzzed lightly as your captains voice came out clear, but a little bit tired. Soft murmurings could be heard, slowly fading as he moved away from them, boots clicking on the floor as he called out:

"Private Harrison is stabled and secured in the medbay till we return home – the overseer is talking to her wounded subordinates, with a few of the onboard security keeping an eye on them. You are to ready yourself for establishing official contact with the city on these moon as soon as we have made sure that our surroundings are clear and our ships defensive measures are able to deal with any treachery. But that aside, we will do our best to make a fitting first impression for Esrila."

His communicator crackled for a moment as he seemed to have moved from one level to another, most likely to seek out his cabin and dress uniform, in an attempt to get out his medical clothes:

"Lt. Mirganiss – you are to carry the official introduction package the Navy has given with us, the wood inlaid version please – exchanging gifts and reminding them of the legitimacy of our posting, might be important.

Ensign Kinsky, you are to follow the ancient tradition of your rank and carry the banner of our space forces with us, when we go aboard, maybe too archaic, but it sure is official.

Specialists Tanith? You are to get into standard uniform and join the three security officers that will bolster our two marines as landing party, I don't want them to know what you can do, till we know more about their reaction to psychics and their intentions. Worst case you are needed to warn the ship.

Lastly – Gunnery Chief Regith. Corporal Haye and you are to choose three of the onboard security to act as escort when we depart, I want it martial and official, we are a warship and we need to show our strength alongside our goodwill. Just please ask Private Allison to leave back her machinegun in favour of a combat rifle for today. For the duration of this operation, Specialist Tanith is to fall in line with you – I don't want anyone gunning at her, when we need her.

That is all – ready for second contact in twenty minutes!"

Click to shrink...

The specialist looked at the captain for a long second, something curling at the edges of her lips, before she slid off the console, and snapped to attention.

"Sir, Captain, Sir!"

The length of time she held the salute was clearly excessive, before she vanished into air. Arriving in her room, she flopped against her bed. Dropping her hair to lie across her face, she stared blankly across the room.

"Ten minutes, Warrant."

The voice rousing her from her reflection, she grabbed her as of yet unused number 3 uniform and slipped it on, checking her pistol was in place at it's holster. Flickering through the door, she walked the entire distance down to the boarding ramp.

"Reporting, Sir!"

 

[Asmodemus]

Lastly – Gunnery Chief Regith. Corporal Haye and you are to choose three of the onboard security to act as escort when we depart, I want it martial and official, we are a warship and we need to show our strength alongside our goodwill. Just please ask Private Allison to leave back her machinegun in favour of a combat rifle for today. For the duration of this operation, Specialist Tanith is to fall in line with you – I don't want anyone gunning at her, when we need her.

Click to shrink...

"Understood sir." It seemed the captain had well and truly snapped out of his belief that he could get by with being some laidback easygoing guy when he was in charge, along with his later odd suspicion of the people they were rescuing from the guys murdering them. The CPO approved greatly.

He readied himself as he could and moved to discuss with Haye who to bring along. They hadn't known the soldiers long so it was all down to appearances basically. The more professional and imposing an air they gave the better and his experience should help with the choices.

And simple rifles was best for what was a diplomatic showing, he agreed firmly. They were the heroes of the day here hopefully, and would soon be a new hope for the local's war going better, so long as no one got any ideas about it being easy to take their ship for themselves to find aid or anything else suicidally dumb like that.

 

[gaiachild]

As if awaiting that moment – or because it was clearly apparent that the ship was about to dock to the local installation, the communicators on everyone buzzed lightly as your captains voice came out clear, but a little bit tired. Soft murmurings could be heard, slowly fading as he moved away from them, boots clicking on the floor as he called out:

"Private Harrison is stabled and secured in the medbay till we return home – the overseer is talking to her wounded subordinates, with a few of the onboard security keeping an eye on them. You are to ready yourself for establishing official contact with the city on these moon as soon as we have made sure that our surroundings are clear and our ships defensive measures are able to deal with any treachery. But that aside, we will do our best to make a fitting first impression for Esrila."

His communicator crackled for a moment as he seemed to have moved from one level to another, most likely to seek out his cabin and dress uniform, in an attempt to get out his medical clothes:

"Lt. Mirganiss – you are to carry the official introduction package the Navy has given with us, the wood inlaid version please – exchanging gifts and reminding them of the legitimacy of our posting, might be important.

Ensign Kinsky, you are to follow the ancient tradition of your rank and carry the banner of our space forces with us, when we go aboard, maybe too archaic, but it sure is official.

Specialists Tanith? You are to get into standard uniform and join the three security officers that will bolster our two marines as landing party, I don't want them to know what you can do, till we know more about their reaction to psychics and their intentions. Worst case you are needed to warn the ship.

Lastly – Gunnery Chief Regith. Corporal Haye and you are to choose three of the onboard security to act as escort when we depart, I want it martial and official, we are a warship and we need to show our strength alongside our goodwill. Just please ask Private Allison to leave back her machinegun in favour of a combat rifle for today. For the duration of this operation, Specialist Tanith is to fall in line with you – I don't want anyone gunning at her, when we need her.

That is all – ready for second contact in twenty minutes!"

Click to shrink...

Allayi Mirganiss

Two minutes to commander her underlings, ensuring that Astrogation would remain fully functional during her absence.

Three minutes to reach her private quarters.

One and a half minute to undress and take a shower.

One minute to dry herself and put on prepared outfit number four: Extremely formal uniform in pristine condition, meant to look
presentable, but not stand out. Choose haircut eleven: Military bun, practical yet stylish, includes hairpin.

Half a minute to mentally prepare herself for the upcoming ceremonies, using mirror to practice facial expression "genuine, yet reserved interest, respectful and nonthreatening".

Three minutes to reach storage space of artefacts.

One minute to locate wooden package, check for blemishes and other faults, remove perceived flaws with cloth, carefully retrieve.

Three minutes to arrive at designated meeting point, taking care to arrive with exactly five minutes to spare, without looking like being in a hurry, nor as if leisurely. Hold box in front to be seen plainly, avoid direct eye-contact with anyone except the captain, appear utterly focused on task.

 

[Gunman]

Only after passing five of these checkpoints, did the E.S.D.S. reach the city they were told about: and it was quite the sight. Before them a multitude f larger and smaller dome structures were erected on the surface of the planet – some big enough that whole fighter wings and cruisers might have fit into them back in the day – not that they were ever intended for that. Huge rents had been torn into most of the domes and you could see the debris of centuries scattered through them – but curiously not outside of them: someone had done their best to gather whatever could be used and had at least hidden the rest – just like the surface of the domes had been covered in dirt of the moons own surface or painted to look akin to it: with most of the structure set into an asteroid crater or something similar, it would have been hard to spot it by examining the moon from above: not impossible but hard.

Click to shrink...

Christopher whistles at the sight in appreciation. "All these centuries and they're still here." Christopher idly wondered about how they managed to do it. He wondered about how many people used to live in those domes before the Scream and how many lived in the remaining one now.

Ensign Kinsky, you are to follow the ancient tradition of your rank and carry the banner of our space forces with us, when we go aboard, maybe too archaic, but it sure is official.

Click to shrink...

"Yes sir!" Christopher left the bridge and went into his quarters. He arrived early, having changed out of his spacesuit and into his standard uniform with woven body armor and his rifle slung over his shoulder. In his right hand was the proud banner flag of the Terran Mandate Navy. Christopher looked up at the flag for a second. How they react to it could decide the relationship between Esrila and the Haiju Enclave.

 

[Simpli]

The preparations were done quickly – and without too much of a time pressure, the majority of the command crew and the surviving marines appeared at the ramp well before the captain, who in turn had decided to help with the transport of the wounded, which seemed to have taken a sudden setback as one of the locals had collapsed in the medbay. Thus, it took another five minutres, before the patient was getting rolled towards the ramp on a medical bed and with his own comrades taking great care to shove it along, while the captain had a watchful eye on the machines hooked up to the bed. Upon seeing the readied entourage, he merely gestured towards the Ensign and gave the technician on the side a small nod, leading to the ramp getting lowered and dull pasty light clashing with the bright new interior of the small bay you were all standing in. But when the ramp lowered you were greeted by a dozen armed and armoured security guards – who had their weapons presented over their chest, standing in a perfect V before your ramp, half honour guard – half guard detachment ready to intervene should anything happen.

Of course, directly before the ramp was an unarmed person, whose spacesuit – which seemed to be the basis of all fashion in this settlement- was adorned by an official looking jacket and a long flowing scarf-cape mixture, that seemed to be adorned with various script and scenes in Basic-Mandate language and other dialects you couldn't as of yet make out. He bowed politely when the group began to move down the ramp, only a slight polite bow and not as deep as the Overseer had upon meeting you. Straightening once more, he watched your procession down the ramp with keen eyes, a strange look entering his eyes as he peered at your flag and a more relieved smile moving over his features as he spotted the Overseer herself in the middle of your group.

A small wave of his hand and the guardsman bowed as well, stepping to the side and forming two flanking lines, presenting their arms as medical personal rushed past their backs and moved to intercept the wounded, quickly putting them unto floating anti-grav stretchers and taking them away – even taking the bed with them as the captain finally stepped to the front of the group….and looked towards the dark skinned pilot with the gift. Inclining his head lightly he gestured for her to step forward to extend the gift towards the local city's representative. After all – if there was any doubt, the very very deep bow of the Overseer upon moving up to him and then joining his side, was a clear sign.​

 

[Asmodemus]

Alexei stood as officially as he could, taking in the sight while maintaining a professional air. Which part of was not cracking a joke of 'we're going to need that back later' about the bed.

Sacrifices. Duty was all about sacrifices.

At least this greeting was going better than their last one.

 

[Estro]

Tanith just stared blankly forwards into space, hands idly cradling the weapon she and the security officers were loosely holding, maintianing her stance in formation.

Nothing to do, nothing to think. Nothing to do, nothing to think. Nothing to do, nothing to think. Nothing to...

 

[Gunman]

Straightening once more, he watched your procession down the ramp with keen eyes, a strange look entering his eyes as he peered at your flag and a more relieved smile moving over his features as he spotted the Overseer herself in the middle of your group.

Click to shrink...

Christopher catches him looking at the flag and tries to figure out what could be read from the expression.

A small wave of his hand and the guardsman bowed as well, stepping to the side and forming two flanking lines, presenting their arms as medical personal rushed past their backs and moved to intercept the wounded, quickly putting them unto floating anti-grav stretchers and taking them away

Click to shrink...

Christopher looked at the anti-gravity stretchers as much as he could without looking directly at them. His eyes then darted around the surroundings to take in any clues of the new culture. They had anti-gravity stretchers and no spike drive. They were the last functioning domed city and Kinsky didn't know if the others broke down from disrepair or war.

Gunman threw 2 20-faced dice. Reason: Charisma Total: 22

 

[gaiachild]

The preparations were done quickly – and without too much of a time pressure, the majority of the command crew and the surviving marines appeared at the ramp well before the captain, who in turn had decided to help with the transport of the wounded, which seemed to have taken a sudden setback as one of the locals had collapsed in the medbay. Thus, it took another five minutres, before the patient was getting rolled towards the ramp on a medical bed and with his own comrades taking great care to shove it along, while the captain had a watchful eye on the machines hooked up to the bed. Upon seeing the readied entourage, he merely gestured towards the Ensign and gave the technician on the side a small nod, leading to the ramp getting lowered and dull pasty light clashing with the bright new interior of the small bay you were all standing in. But when the ramp lowered you were greeted by a dozen armed and armoured security guards – who had their weapons presented over their chest, standing in a perfect V before your ramp, half honour guard – half guard detachment ready to intervene should anything happen.

Of course, directly before the ramp was an unarmed person, whose spacesuit – which seemed to be the basis of all fashion in this settlement- was adorned by an official looking jacket and a long flowing scarf-cape mixture, that seemed to be adorned with various script and scenes in Basic-Mandate language and other dialects you couldn't as of yet make out. He bowed politely when the group began to move down the ramp, only a slight polite bow and not as deep as the Overseer had upon meeting you. Straightening once more, he watched your procession down the ramp with keen eyes, a strange look entering his eyes as he peered at your flag and a more relieved smile moving over his features as he spotted the Overseer herself in the middle of your group.

A small wave of his hand and the guardsman bowed as well, stepping to the side and forming two flanking lines, presenting their arms as medical personal rushed past their backs and moved to intercept the wounded, quickly putting them unto floating anti-grav stretchers and taking them away – even taking the bed with them as the captain finally stepped to the front of the group….and looked towards the dark skinned pilot with the gift. Inclining his head lightly he gestured for her to step forward to extend the gift towards the local city's representative. After all – if there was any doubt, the very very deep bow of the Overseer upon moving up to him and then joining his side, was a clear sign.​

Click to shrink...

Allayi Mirganiss

Fashion inspired by spacesuits was not something Allayi found altogether appealing outside of a sparse number of fancy events with a "theme". And while she could certainly understand why turning such an odd fashion into the preferential dress code of an entire culture might have happened under the given circumstances, she still did not find the resulting creations particularly pleasing to the critical eye. While a talented artist could of course turn the worst of materials into metaphorical gold, spacesuits were by their nature made to be practical first, more so than ordinary garb, which came with certain limits to what could be achieved.

That said, she did however give who appeared to be the representative of this planet credit for his choice in accessories. Herself being quite fond of garments that displayed historic events, she was tempted to inquire about where one might find the tailor of this intriguing shawl.
Contend that she didn't even need to fake an acceptable amount of appreciation, the pilot obeyed her captain's unspoken order and started walking to deliver the ceremonial gift. Moving in purposeful, even steps, her posture straight and firm to display confidence and professionalism towards their host, but also presented a courteous expression as to not be seen as too threatening.

Eyes fixed at the representative, she came to a halt about two feet away from him.

"Esrila extends its greetings to you, grateful for your willingness to entertain us. Please take this token of our appreciation as a promise of a long and prosperous relation between our peoples in this new age of inter-system relations."

Performing a slight bow, she directed closed eyes to the ground while presenting the ornate box to the representative. Due to the distance at which she had come to a halt, she was too far away to touch the man while remaining stationary, but close enough that he did not have to move his feet in order to take the present from her hands.

 

[Simpli]

"City Administrator Gao Fen greets you in the name of the people of the City and expresses his admiration for your journey and delight at once more hearing something from beyond the system, that isn't a call for surrender or a war cry chanting for our death.", the overseer said smoothly as she shifted to stand next to her superior, who had grasped the offered box with slender gloved hands, running his fingertips over its edges, before opening it and looking down at the keys of introduction and the discs holding Esrila's Mandate mandated Authority to raise ships and soldiers to serve in and next to the Mandate fleet. It was doubtfully that he could "read" them without a computer, but he seemed to recognize the insignia of the Mandate and the security measures engraved into the golden disk to make sure that it wasn't a counterfeit. Closing the box again, the Administrator bowed once more, before handing it to the Overseer, who took it carefully.

Taking a step forward towards Lt. Mirganiss, the Administrator reached up to take off his scarf and instead wrapped it around the slender neck of the pilot, making sure that it would fall over her shoulders and past her chest as artfully as possible. This close her elongated ears might pick up the faint whirling of servos and other mechanical parts and from the suddenly close angel she might notice that the Administrator was…. lacking a face. Instead three dully glowing lenses were focused on her and a smooth oval plate made up the rest of the "face" of the robot that stepped back after a moment and looked at its handywork.

Giving it a small nod, the android stepped back and the Overseer picked up once more: "You are welcome to stay in the city as long as you want our proteins and water are yours if you need nourishment and you are authorized to draw from the fuel depots we have for our fighters. The Administrator would like you to accompany him to the communication sanctum to introduce you to the committee. Would that be acceptable?"
​

Even as the question was asked, the door behind the duo opened up without any other prompt and you were greeted by the sight of some more security guards, doing their best parade ground impression, which was a bit spoiled by their try of looking more martial and honouring with SMGs than your own security was doing with their rifles. They just looked a bit shabby like that – and most likely also because their uniforms consisted of patched up and reinforced space suits.

 

[Estro]

"City Administrator Gao Fen greets you in the name of the people of the City and expresses his admiration for your journey and delight at once more hearing something from beyond the system, that isn't a call for surrender or a war cry chanting for our death.", the overseer said smoothly as she shifted to stand next to her superior, who had grasped the offered box with slender gloved hands, running his fingertips over its edges, before opening it and looking down at the keys of introduction and the discs holding Esrila's Mandate mandated Authority to raise ships and soldiers to serve in and next to the Mandate fleet. It was doubtfully that he could "read" them without a computer, but he seemed to recognize the insignia of the Mandate and the security measures engraved into the golden disk to make sure that it wasn't a counterfeit. Closing the box again, the Administrator bowed once more, before handing it to the Overseer, who took it carefully.

Taking a step forward towards Lt. Mirganiss, the Administrator reached up to take off his scarf and instead wrapped it around the slender neck of the pilot, making sure that it would fall over her shoulders and past her chest as artfully as possible. This close her elongated ears might pick up the faint whirling of servos and other mechanical parts and from the suddenly close angel she might notice that the Administrator was…. lacking a face. Instead three dully glowing lenses were focused on her and a smooth oval plate made up the rest of the "face" of the robot that stepped back after a moment and looked at its handywork.

Giving it a small nod, the android stepped back and the Overseer picked up once more: "You are welcome to stay in the city as long as you want our proteins and water are yours if you need nourishment and you are authorized to draw from the fuel depots we have for our fighters. The Administrator would like you to accompany him to the communication sanctum to introduce you to the committee. Would that be acceptable?"
​

Even as the question was asked, the door behind the duo opened up without any other prompt and you were greeted by the sight of some more security guards, doing their best parade ground impression, which was a bit spoiled by their try of looking more martial and honouring with SMGs than your own security was doing with their rifles. They just looked a bit shabby like that – and most likely also because their uniforms consisted of patched up and reinforced space suits.

Click to shrink...

Symca subtly shifted her weight off one foot, and onto the other, again. Stressing her fingers against the butt of the rifle she was holding, she eventually felt them click, and mentally sighed. God's above this was boring. Standing here. Holding the rifle. Looking blindly straight ahead.

Huh, an android. Didn't the mandate do something with AI?

Oh look, more guards. More guards....

God I'm bored.

 

[gaiachild]

"City Administrator Gao Fen greets you in the name of the people of the City and expresses his admiration for your journey and delight at once more hearing something from beyond the system, that isn't a call for surrender or a war cry chanting for our death.", the overseer said smoothly as she shifted to stand next to her superior, who had grasped the offered box with slender gloved hands, running his fingertips over its edges, before opening it and looking down at the keys of introduction and the discs holding Esrila's Mandate mandated Authority to raise ships and soldiers to serve in and next to the Mandate fleet. It was doubtfully that he could "read" them without a computer, but he seemed to recognize the insignia of the Mandate and the security measures engraved into the golden disk to make sure that it wasn't a counterfeit. Closing the box again, the Administrator bowed once more, before handing it to the Overseer, who took it carefully.

Taking a step forward towards Lt. Mirganiss, the Administrator reached up to take off his scarf and instead wrapped it around the slender neck of the pilot, making sure that it would fall over her shoulders and past her chest as artfully as possible. This close her elongated ears might pick up the faint whirling of servos and other mechanical parts and from the suddenly close angel she might notice that the Administrator was…. lacking a face. Instead three dully glowing lenses were focused on her and a smooth oval plate made up the rest of the "face" of the robot that stepped back after a moment and looked at its handywork.

Giving it a small nod, the android stepped back and the Overseer picked up once more: "You are welcome to stay in the city as long as you want our proteins and water are yours if you need nourishment and you are authorized to draw from the fuel depots we have for our fighters. The Administrator would like you to accompany him to the communication sanctum to introduce you to the committee. Would that be acceptable?"
​

Even as the question was asked, the door behind the duo opened up without any other prompt and you were greeted by the sight of some more security guards, doing their best parade ground impression, which was a bit spoiled by their try of looking more martial and honouring with SMGs than your own security was doing with their rifles. They just looked a bit shabby like that – and most likely also because their uniforms consisted of patched up and reinforced space suits.

Click to shrink...

Allayi Mirganiss

Her subdued elation over receiving the admired scarf soon took second stage to maintaining a disciplined posture after gaining new insights into the actual nature of the Administrator. The close proximity of mechanical limbs let a cold shiver run down her spine. Either they were dealing with a robot, or a human bearing significant amounts of cybernetic augmentations.

Both prospects were equally troubling, and if a person of such authority was of this nature, the implications for the culture of this society were, honestly, rather sad in her opinion.

But this was diplomacy, so instead of outwardly showing her aversion, Allayi focused solely on the merriment generated by the scarf when she stated:
"It would be our pleasure, of course. I am sure meeting the esteemed committee shall lead to results beneficial to both of our proud nations. Lead the way."

 

[Asmodemus]

*snip*

Click to shrink...

The formal diplomatic stuff was naturally boring to the military man but he held his bearing with dignity as he waited it out. That was their job now, being ready for treachery and otherwise looking nice and deadly to show off their power.

The new guards showing up showed they were a bit rusty in that affair, not the best, along with their uniforms being all patched up. But after years of war it was understandable. Likely they had to conscript to replenish numbers as well as fish back useful armored spacesuits again for reuse with structural weaknesses their remaining tech couldn't wholly patch up, or at least not with their needed times for getting more bodies back out there or with their resources available.

It helped reinforce that fact that yes, they're not getting that trading they were wanting to fuel their spaceship fleets. But it did seem likely these guys held onto some things Esrila hadn't, and they knew more about their common enemy.

Even if it ended up them fueling these guys in their war, it'd still be a benefit to them as it'd keep back these warlords who his mind jumped to ideas about he wouldn't voice, at least in front of the locals.

As the procession went on he'd maintain his vigilance and make sure his subordinates did too. Both for show and for the fact that these people were likely desperate and desperate people had bad ideas often.

 

[Simpli]

The Captain gave the dark-skinned pilots shoulder a small approving pat, before gesturing for her to take the lead again, seemingly thinking it appropriate with her having been gifted the scarf and all. With a small gesture he called the ensign closer, having him take the place next to him, right behind the pilot – even if carrying the flag through the hallways might get into trouble sooner than later if it hit the ceiling – but it wasn't like they could just run back into the ship, throw it to the side and run outside again, or? Thus the three of them formed the tip of the small procession, their chief and the agent right behind them, followed by the soldiers and security, all of them looking as snappy as possible as they passed the rows of armed soldiers – and after a few steps they might notice a few changes. Where the initial guards had been armed with SMGs and spotty armour, the soldiers who were now opening the doors were wearing armoured spacesuits, maybe not in mind condition, but far better than what the others had, and were armed with laser rifles of some sort or another. The only way to identify them of course was by the similarity to the few examples you knew from home and the one the enemy officer had been using.

It seemed that on one of the better equipped guards came at least 10 of the SMG armed ones and a closer look would show you some similarities to the people you fought before: a certain presence of melee weapons like swords and axes, together with fetishes and carvings of one kind or another, pieces of broken electronics hanging from their shoulders like talismans or more. None of the other people you saw wore something like that and as you left the hangar you soon found yourself striding past the habitation blocks of the busted city, faces of all ages peering down at you from walkways and windows as you moved past them, a few shy waves from children and large eyes on your flag: it seemed that your arrival was having quite the impact.

Only a few minutes later did you reach a tram of some kind, the Administrator beckoning for you to step into it – but thanks to its small size that was only space for the first five of you, together with the Administrator, the Overseer and one of his own security guards.​

 

[gaiachild]

The Captain gave the dark-skinned pilots shoulder a small approving pat, before gesturing for her to take the lead again, seemingly thinking it appropriate with her having been gifted the scarf and all. With a small gesture he called the ensign closer, having him take the place next to him, right behind the pilot – even if carrying the flag through the hallways might get into trouble sooner than later if it hit the ceiling – but it wasn't like they could just run back into the ship, throw it to the side and run outside again, or? Thus the three of them formed the tip of the small procession, their chief and the agent right behind them, followed by the soldiers and security, all of them looking as snappy as possible as they passed the rows of armed soldiers – and after a few steps they might notice a few changes. Where the initial guards had been armed with SMGs and spotty armour, the soldiers who were now opening the doors were wearing armoured spacesuits, maybe not in mind condition, but far better than what the others had, and were armed with laser rifles of some sort or another. The only way to identify them of course was by the similarity to the few examples you knew from home and the one the enemy officer had been using.

It seemed that on one of the better equipped guards came at least 10 of the SMG armed ones and a closer look would show you some similarities to the people you fought before: a certain presence of melee weapons like swords and axes, together with fetishes and carvings of one kind or another, pieces of broken electronics hanging from their shoulders like talismans or more. None of the other people you saw wore something like that and as you left the hangar you soon found yourself striding past the habitation blocks of the busted city, faces of all ages peering down at you from walkways and windows as you moved past them, a few shy waves from children and large eyes on your flag: it seemed that your arrival was having quite the impact.

Only a few minutes later did you reach a tram of some kind, the Administrator beckoning for you to step into it – but thanks to its small size that was only space for the first five of you, together with the Administrator, the Overseer and one of his own security guards.​

Click to shrink...

Allayi Mirganiss

Clever. First they show only a pittance of a security force, fulfilling expectations while relaying a sense of safety and, perhaps, even sympathy in their guests. Now, once we are too far away from the ship to turn around without both exposing our backs and causing a major affront, they bring out the big guns so to speak.

Nothing she could really feel slighted by. Intimidation was a completely valid part of negotiations, after all.

Passing through the streets, she made sure to uphold her posture, taking care not to accidentally ruffle her new scarf too much. As well as having a warm, friendly smile on her lips. Concerning the crowds of civilians watching their little procession, she refrained from grand gestures such as waving or shouting. Instead, she made sure to hold the gazes of a few people for at least a split second, wearing an expression that radiated both openness and pride. At the end of the day, they just did not know enough about this culture to figure out the most effective forms of PR, so for now it would have to be sufficient to simply be seen as nice, confident, and most of all, approachable.
Having become a temporary figurehead of this visit had not been expected, but as far as Allayi was concerned, been a good choice on part of the captain. Back home, she had been a member of high society. The kind of place where everyone was constantly watching and judging every little thing about you. So, after being used to the highly critical gazes of the upper class, being the centre of attention by the masses of the lower classes was nothing.

Her confidence also didn't waver under the newest development. Another likely ploy, if a little obvious. Should they refuse the ride in the tram, it would be an serious offence. But if they did, well, that would isolate them from their security detail and completely at their host's mercy. Depending on how expendable their guides were (one of them might be a machine after all), it would be simple to just blow up the whole wagon and be done with it.

Without hesitation, Allayi raised her hand towards the overseer, palm facing the ground, throwing him an imploring smile. Obviously, expecting him to be a gentleman and lead her over the threshold by hand.

Hach, now she really wished she had worn a dress instead of the uniform. She simply adored acting out scenes likes this, and the undercurrent of danger filled her belly with proverbial butterflies.

 

[Estro]

The Captain gave the dark-skinned pilots shoulder a small approving pat, before gesturing for her to take the lead again, seemingly thinking it appropriate with her having been gifted the scarf and all. With a small gesture he called the ensign closer, having him take the place next to him, right behind the pilot – even if carrying the flag through the hallways might get into trouble sooner than later if it hit the ceiling – but it wasn't like they could just run back into the ship, throw it to the side and run outside again, or? Thus the three of them formed the tip of the small procession, their chief and the agent right behind them, followed by the soldiers and security, all of them looking as snappy as possible as they passed the rows of armed soldiers – and after a few steps they might notice a few changes. Where the initial guards had been armed with SMGs and spotty armour, the soldiers who were now opening the doors were wearing armoured spacesuits, maybe not in mind condition, but far better than what the others had, and were armed with laser rifles of some sort or another. The only way to identify them of course was by the similarity to the few examples you knew from home and the one the enemy officer had been using.

It seemed that on one of the better equipped guards came at least 10 of the SMG armed ones and a closer look would show you some similarities to the people you fought before: a certain presence of melee weapons like swords and axes, together with fetishes and carvings of one kind or another, pieces of broken electronics hanging from their shoulders like talismans or more. None of the other people you saw wore something like that and as you left the hangar you soon found yourself striding past the habitation blocks of the busted city, faces of all ages peering down at you from walkways and windows as you moved past them, a few shy waves from children and large eyes on your flag: it seemed that your arrival was having quite the impact.

Only a few minutes later did you reach a tram of some kind, the Administrator beckoning for you to step into it – but thanks to its small size that was only space for the first five of you, together with the Administrator, the Overseer and one of his own security guards.​

Click to shrink...

That neck seal looks weak, you could probably get a knife in there, motion necessitates flexibility. Elbows seem relatively well guarded, which is a shame, that's usually a good trick. Guns look like laser rifles - Monroe pattern? Probably at least based on it, although the question of it they're antiques or they have common production is a notable one. Don't appear to have any recognition system, and no yet evidence of psi, so they might be unused to it. Murder, steal weapon, flicker stalk to attack the rest. We're gonna be out of walk range to the ship soon, so I can't grab anything new without leaving the Captain, and more importantly our pilot exposed for at least a few seconds. I could try hostages? Flicker to the android, press my gun to it?

Tanith met the eyes of one of the more well equipped soldiery, and her mouth twitched slightly.

Does the pilot have any martial skill? I know she didn't engage last time, but that doesn't preclude it. If she's reliable, we could try arming our with a las as I report to the ship. Ship mounted weapons would blend these fools. But no, can't count on that. I think the best I could do is escape myself. Maybe take down one or two of them.

As the Administrator gestured at the tram, Tanith walked in, still maintaining her guise as a roughly average member of the marines.

Now, this I could do. We out number them, and teleportation in confined spaces is much more effective than you might think. Hmm, what if the Overseer is psi? Depending on discipline that could be awkward.

 

[Asmodemus]

Seemed it had been a rough war.

That was his best explanation for things. The upper tier guys apparently got the best armor and training, officers or elite corps, probably charged with defense of their main area.

The lower tier guys got crap armor stitched together, reminder of the losses they'd taken, and weaker weaponry. Probably what they could produce or at least in enough numbers. May have forgotten how to make the stronger guns or lost the mines/production facilities for them. Not like Esrila hadn't lost their own techs in the wake of it all. Heck, they may have lost a lot more than the locals here.

But hopefully they could pool their resources, politicians willing, and get things back on track. Unity and all that. He wouldn't mind having a couple of elite veterans from this city on future trips.

He did his part to be a proper figure for his people, though he did wave back to the kids that did to him. Adorable when you didn't have to wipe their snotty noses yourself.

Entering the tram with the rest he paused for a moment, letting anyone else have a chance to talk before he spoke up about something he was casually interested in. "So, some of your guys seem big on trophies."

It seemed a safer topic of conversation than 'Are you a cyborg or a robot?' or any other things that sprang to mind. It wasn't a bad thing in and of itself, though it did help their use of melee weaponry give them a more 'tribal' air to them. Still he knew soldiers tended to take souvenirs, at least some, and a few trophies though the ones that displayed them in any way were a minority. Partly due to how they got it drilled into their heads to keep a professional air by maintaining their uniforms.

 

[Simpli]

Without hesitation, Allayi raised her hand towards the overseer, palm facing the ground, throwing him an imploring smile. Obviously, expecting him to be a gentleman and lead her over the threshold by hand.

Click to shrink...

Maybe there was a man behind the helmet with a modicum of education – or an AI with archives reaching far enough to draw similarities between the gesture offered to it and Mandate mandated cultural Archives, either way: the city Administrator took the offered hand without missing a beat, sketching the lightest of bows as he helped the dark-skinned beauty into the wagon, the scarf fluttering around the Lt.'s neck at the lightest of breezes that was now meeting them. Guiding Allayi towards the "front" of the wagon, tapping against the windows of the small tram, which lit up a moment later with colourful images and texts, overlaying the ruined and rusting surroundings you were beginning to move through, with images of grace and startling functionality. Only after the wagon had already moved a few meters were you able to match some of the sighs outside, with the sights the windows were showing: either historical information or some kind of tourist thing to show off what the city was supposed to be one day.

This of course only made the difference between reality and between what was or could have been, ever worse: parks and flowerbeds that had once been intended for relaxation and strolls of the citizens of the city, had been turned into fields and hydroponic labs, foodstuff and paste being produced as necessity, where once distraction had been planned. All around you the infrastructure of the city had been hit – and hit hard if the many caved in sights were any indication- but hadn't broken down completely, multiple tram lines like this one still working, even if the other wagons were larger and contrary to the one you were in: not armoured.

Looking around you could see that the closer you came to the centre of what remained of the city (which was the centre of the intact third or maybe two-third that was still habitable), the more of the original architecture and infrastructure was still working and while the domes above were still intact, many buildings had been expanded into their own little air tight compartments, as if surviving a few hours longer after the dome was vented, was going to be a relief.​

Tanith met the eyes of one of the more well equipped soldiery, and her mouth twitched slightly.

Click to shrink...

"You aren't used to space, are you?", a voice suddenly asked from Tanith's side – soon followed by a bemused smile as one of the remaining guards, leaned against the wall next to her and hung his laser rifle over his shoulder as he looked down at her – one of the shiny guards too. His face was pale and had similar features to some of the other people you had seen in the city so far, only that the dark colour of his skin deviated from what might once have been the appropriate culture and ethnicity decided for this city by the Mandate. With a smile he tapped against the window next to you, bringing up the tourist show that was happily depicting the city in its early days – its glorious days if the whimsical look on his face was any indication. Not that it stopped him long, with a larger smirk he leaned forward and whispered:

"So – can I just ask or do I need to invite you to some tea first, to find out how you would kill me?", with a small wink he pulled back again and looked towards the rest of the wagon, content to stay in a relaxed – but ready pose as he watched the Administrator show off the city to the pilot, not indulging in further probing of the spy.​

"So, some of your guys seem big on trophies."

Click to shrink...

"Yes, they or their families hail from the mining settlements on the planet below originally, most of them come from tribes and families that are "allied" to us. They did well on exams and thus got the chance to life and serve as citizens instead of remaining in the fading lights of the mines.", the Administrator answered frankly, giving a small nod to the Overseer, who bowed before launching into a small explanation of her own:
"The survivors on Thos have regressed tremendously after we lost contact with the Mandate. With the atmosphere thin and the temperatures always below the temperature of water becoming ice, there has been little in the way of life above ground and before the mines were built on it only Microbial life called the planet its own.", with a small nod towards the dome above them, its messy ceiling still showing patches of blue and white, where screens were still struggling to keep up the illusion of an Earth-like sky, that had long since fallen.

"They seem to have lost all knowledge of operating the machinery still working to keep them alive today and have formed a primitive society centred around natural or artificial heat spots – we do have trading relations with some of the more civilized tribes and they are in natural conflict with those tribes equipped with advanced weaponry by the warlords for recruitment.

Of course, in times of low population we undertake a census and offer the brightest and most promising of the tribals a chance to join our society. It doesn't work smoothly all the time, but for the last few hundred years, the surface of Thos has served as a reserve for manpower in our desperate hours. The soldiers you mean, are part of warrior lodges or similar, either first generation or descendants of tribal chosen ones that were integrated into our society. It's mostly harmless and good for their moral."
​

​