You recognize Gevalarsk Nor as the head of the Eox diplomatic delegation to the Pact Council. Eox has full signatory rights to the Pact. They are equal citizens of the Pact Worlds.
"You know, come to think of it, I remember reading a story on one of the news infospheres shortly after we got to Absalom Station. Apparently, this Gevalarsk Nor is the head of the Eox delegation to the Pact Council. So, definitely a big shot...one of the movers and shakers not just on here on the station, but among the Pact worlds and the whole system. Makes it even weirder wondering what he wants with us. Why would a leader from a dead world like Eox need to arrange a meeting like this? The only thing I can imagine is maybe he's friends with Chiskisk or something? The shirren might have mentioned us, and maybe the ambassador needs the help of the Starfinders for something?"
"Either way, I don't like it. The Pact may grant the dead inhabitants of Eox equal citizenship, but the laws of nature make me feel different. The dead should be...dead. That might not be the polite thing to say, but it's how I was raised."
Dee was already geared up, almost as if she had slept in her attire. She didn’t need much sleep as other humanoids did, more like a reverie of sorts. Seeing the note, she wondered why would the Ambassador of Eox wanted to speak with them.
"Agreed, I have had some 'diplomatic relations' with a few Eoxians during my time as a slave to the Nocturnum Corp." The elf-droid had been programmed to use the language if needed. "I can also speak their language as well if needed."
Dee listened to Tylur, finding his speculation about the Eoxian Race a matter of perspective. Using the nearest terminal, the technomancer accessed the infosphere. Looking up anything she could find about the Eoxians.
====
Sybil examines the card that she is given finding it an oddity. She calls upon her magics to cast Detect Magic and examines the car again for any magical properties.
The halfling's first thoughts are of the Eoxians a race and what she recalls about them, having seen few, interacted with them even less than that.
Sybil joins with her collages as she munches down on a protein bar She nods to each as she listens to Tyur's take on the race. She smiles as she comments, "Consider their point of view, perhaps be alive is the abberation, consider most "living" beings do die."
She considers the ambassador herself, Excellency Gevalarsk Nor and seems to come up with much of the same tht Tylur just mentioned.
"I am sure how we stormed into one of the top gangs place of buisness and brought their leader to justice has not escaped the notice of a lot of the mover and shakers of this station." Sybil put. "They are likely considering how to use it to their advantage, Excellency Gevalarsk Nor is perhaps the first."
Zam taps the ink-black card against her palm, her antennae wiggling nervously. The Eoxians are a strange brood, and to be summoned by such a high ranking official... "I mean, it's possible Chiskisk is friends with them, but that's an odd match. I'm inclined to agree with Sybil. Ugh! I'd rather just ignore the summons, but there's no way we can just brush off this Gevalarsk Nor."
She sighs, sinking deeply into her seat. "Do you think we should buy more weapons?"
Then she flips the cards over, double checking the names. "And who is Yon?"
"Do you think we should buy more weapons?"
"Well, you know my philosophy: You can never have too many weapons. As soon as you think you've got enough, something new shows up on the battlefield and you're suddenly outgunned and outclassed. But showing up at the embassy in Parkside fully armed probably isn't necessary.
Then she flips the cards over, double checking the names. "And who is Yon?"
"No idea. I wondered the same thing. Maybe it's someone this Gevalarsk means to introduce us to...for...something? This whole thing is weird. And it's just going to get creepier if we show up and there's an animated skeleton sitting there wanting to talk to us."
“Let us not forget that this is an Ambassador of the Pact Worlds. Yes, Eoxians are no longer alive, but we need to follow this diplomat’s wishes because we may have less of a peaceful summons if we disappoint him.” Dee reminded everyone. She used to less diplomatic measures if all other avenues were exhausted...or ignored.
“I would like to purchase an android upgrade if I can.” Dee commented about purchasing upgrades. Not that it was a priority at the moment. It was only something she would like to acquire if there were funds available.
“I do believe that his Excellency intentions are peaceful and not malicious. Showing up loaded with wetworks may provoke ill-will towards us. We do after all represent the Starfinders now, there is probably a code of conduct they expect from us.” The elf-droid didn’t really know what that code was, just simply knew that if she followed her beliefs that was probably enough for what the Starfinders wanted.
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Yon had been awake for several hours, parts cluttered his bed space which he had refurbished into a workbench of sorts. His blueish artificial tattoos glowed brightly as he focused working on his latest project.
His arrival at Absalom Station and recent promotion to full agent had left him feeling more hopeful than he had in a while. Perhaps they would have the resources to help him out. If not, at least they might allow him to use this body for some sort of good.
An clink could be heard as he snapped the last piece of his Exocortex back together. Not waiting, Yon reintegrated the unit back into his head, excited to test out the latest modifications. Upon activating the unit, his vision started going crazy, his combat tracking unit started trying to target anything that was... blue? Yon groans inwardly, clearly he should have compiled the code first to make sure the new modifications hadn't screwed anything up.
Not long later, Yon had Trianna reengaged and seemingly working fine. He had changed her from running a Piloting subroutine to one more appropriate for climbing and swimming. Perhaps he would give her a test run sometime this week. Trianna beeped in his head in approval of the new upgrades as a new thought entered his mind. Food.
Gathering up his basic equipment Yon leaves to find the nearest source where he can replenish his bodies energy. Reading the note he finds outside of his door.
Perhaps a real mission. Good.
Yon decides to quickly pack up his gear and bring it along. Noticing his travel clothing still dirty he briefly considers trying to buy new clothing or washing them, then decides against it. A combination of low credits and time led the Android to decide that social niceties could be shrunken in order to better enable him to complete more important objectives.
As Yon moves to obtain food, he attempts to make eye contact with a middle age, male Human for several seconds, he hoped that they would take his hint and interact with him...They did not. Instead, the seemed to stop looking him in the eyes and continue moving on. Yon noticed their step seeming to increase in frequency per minute. Odd. Eye contact should be good for signaling I seek interaction. Why does it work sometimes and not others? Curious. Trianna, note for further research. Figure this out we must. The atmospheric qualities? No, where is the logic in that Trianna? A few more bugs to work out, I have.
Trianna beeps in his head acknowledging the quarry for later. Eventually finding food Yon does his best to maximize his time, eating along the way to the embassy. Muttering to himself:
"Test some of my new ideas? The time it is perhaps, and time for new teammates. How exciting! Perhaps they will better understand eye contact. Yes... I bet they will."
You find a bit of news about the Eoxians offering to mediate between Astral Extractions and the Hardscrabble Collective, in the upcoming court case. As for why they would get involved, there are quite a few theories online.
Eoxians are a race of undead that come from the planet Eox. Millenia ago there was some unknown calamity that caused the near destruction of the world. The leaders turned themselves and everyone else on the planet into undead.
After the Gab Eox attacked Absolom Station early on, but it failed.
Since then they have joined up with the Pact World Government fully.
There is a renegade faction that don't agree with the planet joining up with the living. This faction is the Corpse Fleet.
As you make your way to the Eoxian embassy in Absalom Station's wealthy Parkside neighborhood in the Eye. As you approach you can see a large building made of black marble and bone-pale limestone. The building is gated off with a bone-like fencing.
Standing at the entrance are 2 skeletal humanoids. Their skulls extend a bit farther than a normal human. Both are carrying large weapons and seem to be standing motionless. A soft light coming from the sockets where eyes would normally go in a living creature.
Zam taps her staff on the synthesized stone walkway as they approach the embassy. She looks the building up and down with more than a little apprehension. "Are those real bones? "
Zam has heard about the Eoxians, of course, but this is the first time she's interacted with them in person. Smoothing her antennae and hair for the twentieth time, she makes her way forward to the door.. men? Women? Persons.
Extending her invitation, she gives her best smile. "Hi there. We've all received a summons from Gevalarsk Nor. I am Zamasea De, and these are DeeV8, Sybil Surefoot, and Tylur Trask, and oh!" she notes the android with glowing blue tattoos approaching behind them. "Is that Yon? We've never met, you see."
Zam taps her staff on the synthesized stone walkway as they approach the embassy. She looks the building up and down with more than a little apprehension. "Are those real bones? "
"Let's hope not!" Tylur dryly comments, "Nothing says, 'Hey drop on by for a friendly chat!' like an entire fence and gate made from the bones of your enemies..."
Once they approach the skeletal guards, Tylur stays stone silent, and struggles to contain a look of revulsion on his face. 'Sheesh...they really are skeletons!' he thinks to himself.
When Zam speaks up, he's once again reassured that it's best to let her do the talking for the group. He had no idea what he could possibly say to something that's dead...but not dead. 'How do these things talk?' he wonders, 'Do they even have vocal cords?'
As the new android arrives, Tylur simply takes note of Yon's demeanor, physical presence, and potential weaponry...a military habit he can never break when sizing up newcomers. 'Maybe Dee can pry some information out of him? Like, why he's here. And why we're all here.'
Sybil moves up along side of Zam and removes her invitation cat and shows the strange swirling side that she could not understand, "Good day, gentle... er... persons. My invitation. I believe that we are, expected by the Ambassador."
With a cheerful smile the halfling looks about the area for anything really amiss...
Nothing here made the elf-droid uncomfortable since she had seen plenty of sights that would make anyone cringe back on her homeworld.
“Greetings and salutations.” Dee stated to the two bone men. She had a few run-ins with Eoxians a long time ago, so it didn’t bother her to see these undead beings.
“Yon? Interesting to see another Android here as well.” The elf-droid smiled, nodding towards his direction. She had never met this Android, Dee seemed rather cautious around him.
“Was this the sort of communication one expected between androids?” Dee asked Tylur. She wondered why asking the question was any different than anyone else doing so?
The android appeared like any eleven female with violet tattoos scattered about her alabaster skin. The most distinctive feature was the crescent moon tattoo located in the middle of her forehead.
“My designation is DeeV8, but you can call me Dee if you wish. Are you here to see his Excellency Gevalarsk Nor as well?” asked Dee, introducing herself to the newcomer.
Nothing really amiss, but a bit unnerving. This is a very high ranking building for a very odd race. Technically full members of the Pact, but never fully trusted by most.
The two guards, silently, look over the card, then move aside.
2 additional skeletal attendants head your way from the building. Looking over the group.
One of them speaks, a slight chatter to the voice. "Greetings, you must be the Starfinders Ambassador Nor wishes to meet with. Please follow us" Their cold light from their eyes flitting back and forth between the group.
As they lead you into the building itself, the interior is even more unnerving. The architecture seems as if you are inside the rib cage of an immense creature, even though the building looked like a common rectangular structure from the outside.
You see a large variety of undead skeletal creatures talking and moving around the building. Occasionally a more fleshy zombie like creature follows behind, as some sort of assistant or slave. The two attendants direct you though the building to a very well appointed office that feels something like the inside of an ancient mausoleum.
Inside is a large skeletal creature, floating inches above the ground. An elongated cranium marks him as an Elebrain.
He speaks in an extremely clear and crisp fashion. "Greetings, please take a seat. Make yourself comfortable." Gesturing toward a few seats, that seem to be out of place here. They seem like something you would find in a very fancy hotel. Definitely designed for the living.
Since the offered chairs seem like the only 'normal' thing in the ambassador's office (or home?), Tylur quietly takes a seat and lets Zam and the others do the talking.
He stands about 6'1 with a thinner build, neither gangly nor bulky. He wears shabby clothing that are shades of greys, and browns, clothing that would appear to be built for traveling purposes. The various clothing also looks like it has been patched up many times over. Yon could do for a new wardrobe.
He keeps most of his gear in his pack. He also carries an Azimuth Laser Rifle and is decked out in Troop Ceremonial Plate Armor. In addition, where one might put in a Datajack Augment, some sort of personalized device exists.
He presents himself in a relaxed manner, perhaps his movement might appear to be somewhat rigid as Yon often looks to try and improve his stride length for optimal distribution of energy. Thus he sometimes will step in an awkward manner in order to recorrect his stride.
He appears to speak in a manner of one attempting to be as pleasant as possible, perhaps in a slightly over the top sort of manner.
“Yon? Interesting to see another Android[b] here as well.” The elf-droid smiled, nodding towards his direction. She had never met this Android, Dee seemed rather cautious around him.“My designation is DeeV8, but you can call me Dee if you wish. Are you here to see his Excellency Gevalarsk Nor as well?” asked Dee, introducing herself to the newcomer.
Yon nods in greeting to the others, relaxing slightly when he notices Dee, another Android! "Greetings, I am Yon, though that is a moniker I use to facilitate a more Human approach to my interaction with others. Properly I am P-1107, though Yon is preferred. It is my pleasure to meet you." Yon then looks to the other "not-skeletal creatures" "And you each as well!"
As to why I am here, I do believe you are both correct Dee and, Zamasea... Ve? I am sorry, I only partially could hear you. I am, as you say, here to see his Excellency Gevalarsk Nor as well."[/b]
Yon smiles at Tylur, briefly considering to see if staring would help facilitate better interaction with him, then decides to try later instead. He shows his card as well to the strange creatures, uncertain of much about them.
Yon bows in response to the kindness of the Elebrain. "Thank you, I shall happily do so." Yon quickly follows Tylur to a seat and sits, leaning towards him and speaking loud enough for anyone else who is seated (or attempting to sit) to hear.
These seats make the skeletal system along the lower regions of my body very happy, they are most comfortable!"
Sybil nods respectfully to the Ambassador, "Thank you for the invitation" She than hops up onto a seat that stands about the size of the small woman. Looking rather diminutive in the chair she smiles to her host and her colleagues as she waits to see what the Ambassador wants of them.
Once everyone finds a way to be comfortable the slightly floating undead creature floats a bit toward the group. Its voice is clear and easy to understand in standard common.
"Thank you for agreeing to meet with me. I'm certain you're aware of the recent interest in the prospecting ship Acreon and the asteroid being referred to as the 'Drift Rock,' and I believe you're also acquainted with the dispute between Estral Extractions and the Hardscrabble Collective over both the ship and the asteroid. Both parties are currently awaiting legal arbitration, but the wheels of justice often turn quite slowly. As a result, I have offered my services and a mediator in hopes of finding a solution that is equitable to both factions.
The first step in this, of course is learning the specifics of the opposing claims. Reports of your recent endeavors in dealing with some of Absalom Station's most notorious gangs, as well as P-1107's digging into the science behind the Drift Rock, have ld me to believe that you might be useful in this undertaking as well. You're new to the station, you seem to possess a wide range of skills and abilities, and you certainly appear capable. In short, you're perfectly positioned as a neutral third party that could cut through all the red tape surrounding this issue and get to the heart of the matter.
I would like you to go to the Acreon, find out precisely what happened to its crew, and ascertain the value of it's asteroid cargo, as well as determine whether this Drift Rock is truly as 'mysterious' as the media claims."
It then floats there, looking for your response. Watching your reactions with cleaver eyes.
Zam tries hard not to stare at the elongated skull, or the glowing eyes, or the floating feet. Or wait, shouldn't she stare at its eyes?
I hardly think we're neutral. Zam thinks honestly, noting her already-solidified disdain for Astral Extractions.
But the chance to visit the Acreon itself, and get to the bottom of all this. Wow!
"Thank you ambassador. We were fortunate to establish a relationship with the Level 21 Crew and, well, the Downside Kings chose their side in that dispute. In the end, we're just hopeful to solve the murder of our colleague within the Starfinder Society."
"Speaking of the Society, we are of course representatives of that organization. As an embassador, I know you understand that every word and action you take is a reflection on your constituents. And although we are far from ambassadors or diplomats, we would need to acquire clearance for a mission such as this."
"However, I can say quite confidently that we are certainly keen on the opportunity to investigate the Drift Rock and speed this dispute between Astral Extractions and the Hardscrabble Collective to a swift conclusion. If we are able to contribute in any way to a settlement in advance of their arbitration, I would call that a success, and one, I hope, the Starfinders will authorize. And so, for my part I will tentatively but enthusiastically accept your proposal."
The small woman listens and seems to like what she hears and replies after a moment of thought and Zam's comments she replies, "Your offer is most intriguing. As Arbitrator in this matter, you have the authority to grant us access to both the ship and the asteroid?"
There is also a thought in the back of her mind though, that there must be something in it for the Eox and/or the Ambassador. Keeping her smile she also asks, "My apologies for asking but it is best to have as much information as one can before they agree, "Why put yourself in the middle of this minor disagreement? I mean... I guess I am trying to figure out what your motives are. Are you being truly altruistic or is there more?" At the end of her query she almost cringes and holds her breath that she did not offend the Ambassador.
“A pleasure to meet you Yon.” Dee replied bowing in his direction. She was impressed with how the Android seemed flawless with the use of his emotions. This intrigued her, perhaps Yon could be of help to her with her own emotional hurdles.
The elf-droid listened intently, intrigued by the information the Diplomat was giving them. She wondered if the crew of the Acreon and the Drift Rock itself.
Excitement.
An interesting emotion but a typical one. Dee imagined just what kind of secrets and perils that may await them if they investigated for the missing crew and its mysterious rock.
The Technomancer listened to Zam and Sybil, finding both females to be well mannered and quite elegant with the choice of words. Dee was happy they had chosen her to be their leader. Not saying a word, logic dictated that the Lashuntan woman was the best to speak for them all.
Yon listens intently, at the mention of the asteroid he can't help but give his full attention to the topic at hand. He nods his agreement at the request. Starting to speak and then immediately cutting off as Zam and Sybil speak.
They speak well, Trianna make a note to approach them about the eye contact problem. Perhaps they will know. A beep in his head greets his request.
"My apologies for asking but it is best to have as much information as one can before they agree, why put yourself in the middle of this minor disagreement? I mean...I guess I am trying to figure out what your motives are. Are you being truly altruistic or is there more?"
"Yeah," Tylur adds to Sybil's point, "What's in it for you? Is this just a political gain for you by resolving the impasse for the involved parties? Or, do you have your own interest in the Acreon and the Drift Rock?"
"However, I can say quite confidently that we are certainly keen on the opportunity to investigate the Drift Rock and speed this dispute between Astral Extractions and the Hardscrabble Collective to a swift conclusion. If we are able to contribute in any way to a settlement in advance of their arbitration, I would call that a success, and one, I hope, the Starfinders will authorize. And so, for my part I will tentatively but enthusiastically accept your proposal."
His skeletal mouth seems to curl into a smile. "From what I know of the Starfinders, they would jump at the chance to let you perform this task. They never seem to say no to opportunities to learn something. You are welcome to verify with your handlers, if you wish"
"Why put yourself in the middle of this minor disagreement? I mean... I guess I am trying to figure out what your motives are. Are you being truly altruistic or is there more?"
He turns toward Sybil, looming down on the Halfling. "You are correct, there is one additional detail that I'd like to ask your help with"
"Yeah," Tylur adds to Sybil's point, "What's in it for you? Is this just a political gain for you by resolving the impasse for the involved parties? Or, do you have your own interest in the Acreon and the Drift Rock?"
Nor, steepling his boney fingers, shifting his gaze to Tylur. "Among its other cargo, the Acreon was carrying a package destined for the embassy. Of course, with the ship being quarantined, the package has been undeliverable. I've been eagerly awaiting its arrival, and I'd consider it a personal favor if you could find the package and bring it to me when you return to the station. It's clearly marked, so I don't imagine it will be too difficult to find.
"Of course I won't be asking you to perform this task for free. I can provide 600 credits to each of you up front for your time and effort. This will be provided up front. In addition, if you return the cargo I can offer you each an additional 500 credits."
He looks to each of you, expectantly.
“Despite being Starfinders, we do not simply jump without at least knowing the goal of the endeavor.” Dee replied, not bothered by his appearance. She had seen these people before, dealing with them during some purchasing of Drow weaponry.
Those she had dealt with were less welcoming. But then again it was hard to judge any sort of character when it involved emotions to the Android.
The elf-droid listened to the Ambassador, finding interesting that he had cargo aboard the Acreon he needed them to acquire. “Interesting, an ulterior motive? That is intriguing, I would not imagine why we could not provide a service for that incentive.” Dee responded a loud and of course out of turn. “One would assume that you do not wish for us to peak, is that the word? Yes? Peak within this box you speak of.”
"Dee is programmed to assess all risks and eventualities," Zam offers apologetically. "No doubt she's already calculating a risk-benefit analysis. But the contents are, hmm, sensitive?"
Yon decides to try an experiment by staring intently at the ambassador, to see if eye contact would have any effect on the floating diplomat.
"If the Starfinder Society has cleared everything then there are no problems here.
WOuld you divulge what the cargo is? To be safe."
Looking slowly between all of you, "The package contents are a sensitive matter, but I can assure you that it contains no contraband and that there are no illegalities involved. Just some personal property I wish for you to obtain."
With a subtle hand gesture, "Do you accept? I can provide you the details of your travel." He pulls a datapad out of thin air, and holds it ready to issue commands.
"Dee is programmed to assess all risks and eventualities," Zam offers apologetically."No doubt she's already calculating a risk-benefit analysis. But the contents are, hmm, sensitive?"
“I believe you are correct Zam. The chances of us simply going on the Diplomat’s word has a 28.9% chance of having ramifications to our status as Starfinders. However, since he is a Diplomat of the Core Worlds, I believe he is the only individual who has the power to grant us access to the Aecron and the Rock it’s hauling in its wake.” Stated the elf-droid as a-matter-factly.
"If the Starfinder Society has cleared everything then there are no problems here.
Would you divulge what the cargo is? To be safe."
The Technomancer listened to the exchange between the Yon and the Ambassador. Not that she was able to divulge any sort of motive from the Eoxian. Something told her that his Excellency wouldn’t tell them anything. “I suggest that perhaps an extra payment could ensure that we do not indulge in our curiosities? I am correct Zam? This, of course, is only a mere suggestion, for one wouldn’t judge the contents of the package to be malicious. After all, Eoxians are citizens of the Core World like the rest of us. Despite their unique disposition.”
They all needed to have a level head about the Ambassador. Eoxians despite being undead, were still very much citizens of the Core Worlds like the rest of them. It was easy to be prejudice due to their outward appearance. She felt that sometimes people judged too quickly. Much like some judged her people. Despite willing to give the Ambassador the benefit of the doubt, Dee still remained guarded about the whole endeavor.
Zam listens to the ambassador carefully.
Is this even Gevalarsk Nor? He hasn't confirmed his identity. She listens for any modulation in tone that would suggest he's lying about the contents of the package, or who he is.
"Of course, Dee. I'm sure the ambassador realizes the delicate nature of the task, and so has offered us a starting figure for negotiation. Ambassador Nor, you're asking us to ignore Station protocol and extract an item out of quarantine. Some might characterize that as smuggling. I say that because if there were a legal means to get it, a person in your position would already have it. With the increased risk comes an increase cost: 1,500 credits each, 1,000 up front. " Zam smiles pleasantly through it all, like she negotiates the smuggle of contraband every morning before breakfast.
He seems hard to read, but as far as you can tell he is telling the truth. His statement about illegality seems truthful as well.
As Dee speaks Nor looks to her and seems to find humor in Dee's statements.
As Zam asks for the additional money, Nor just looks down at her. "The payment of 600 credits up front, and 500 if you return with the package is standard rate for this task. As I said, this is not smuggling, just performing my duty as mediator as well as getting my personal property back. Though I appreciate your deft negotiation skills. You would be very useful in the political arena."
"If there's any blowback for this endeavor from security or customs on Absalom Station, what assurances do we have that you'll shield us from them rather than hang us out to dry?" Tylur asks, "I mean, I've done black ops for corporations plenty of times, and they're all about disavowing as soon as something goes sideways. Politicians seem cut from the same cloth. So, is there a contract we can acquire from you that clearly lays out your role in organizing this mission. Something that puts your skin in the game as much as ours? And, if you're not willing to sign such a missive, then what we're really talking about is a mission that requires extra discretion. And, for that, it should cost extra. Maybe not as much as Zam's initial offer...but split the difference...1000 credits up front, and 750 once we return the package."
Yon sits back and lets the others discuss this, he was not sure this discussion was getting anywhere, nor did he really care. The costs and benefits of the mission seemed acceptable enough to him.
He focused his attention on running through the problems Trianna and he had run into on their initial investigation, calculating his moves to see if there was a more efficient way to proceed. Though he kept coming up on dead ends, this was the best way to better understand those strange signals.
He looked at the datapad the ambassador held and waited.
The halfling seems satisfied with the answer from the Ambassador. Sure there may be more, but what will be will be.
"I'll do it." she answer for herself.
She listens as Zam and Tyler attempt to get a few more credits. But after being shot down, she does not even make the attempt to help.
"If there's any blowback for this endeavor from security or customs on Absalom Station, what assurances do we have that you'll shield us from them rather than hang us out to dry?" Tylur asks, "I mean, I've done black ops for corporations plenty of times, and they're all about disavowing as soon as something goes sideways. Politicians seem cut from the same cloth. So, is there a contract we can acquire from you that clearly lays out your role in organizing this mission. Something that puts your skin in the game as much as ours? And, if you're not willing to sign such a missive, then what we're really talking about is a mission that requires extra discretion. And, for that, it should cost extra. Maybe not as much as Zam's initial offer...but split the difference...1000 credits up front, and 750 once we return the package."
Nor thinks for a second. "The legal system has been working with both corporations, they have quite a few eyes on their actions. It would be nearly impossible for them to repeat the gang war type activity that they performed. The activity you got caught in the middle of."
"As for some assurance to you, being the mediator in this, my actions in hiring you to check out the Acreon and Drift Rock, are all above board. I can have a contract written up for your activities. As for the manner of retrieving my cargo, that is a personal matter, one that we do not need to get the legal system involved in. I am not sure you know the power I have on this station, but trust me when I say, if you come back to the station with my cargo in tow. You send a message to me of your arrival time, we will have no difficulty passing the cargo to my team. You have my word."
He quickly does some work on the datapad. Then looks up toward you. Each of your devices gets a ping. Looking you all have a contract for your activities. All you need to do is digitally sign the form to accept the work.
Items of interest in the contract.
1. Nor has recieved permission from station securty to send an exploration team (you) to the Acreon.
2. He has arranged for one of the station's shuttles for trasport.
3. There are no other crew, so you will need to pilot the transport ship.
4. There will be a small Observer Robot that will follow along your activities, transmitting its recordings back to Nor. It is also stated that all recordings of this device will be public record and used as part of the case between Hardscrabble Collective and Astral Extractions.
5. Both sides of the case (Hardscrabble Collective and Astral Extractions) have approved of Nor being the mediator. All of this is public record.
6. Up front payment of 600 Credits to each of the Exploration team.
There is no mention of the cargo or the additional 500 credits.
Nor looks to each of you as you skim the contract. "Please read this over. There will be no adjustments to the contract, but if you have any questions please let me know." He gestures his hand forward. You see skeletal humanoid standing at the door.
This new Assistant, with a surprisingly feminine voice "Please come with me. We have a living waiting area that your team may use"
As you turn, Nor is already moved back into his work, looking at a globe of data, that must represent some type of computer interface.
The assistant leads you to a small room with chairs and some fresh food. "Please use this room to discuss anything you need. If you have any questions please press this button and we will come and provide any answers. There are no monitoring devices in this room, so you are welcome to make any calls or discuss anything. If you wish to leave just let us know and we can walk you out. If you do sign the contract we will transfer the funds and give you the relevant details. Thank you" She turns and leaves you all. The door shuts behind. Though it does not sound like it locked in anyway.
The quick shift from discussion to end of conversation is a bit of a surprise for each of you. You get the impression you have very little power in negotiation. You also get the impression, that if you do not accept the contract there is no major penalty .
Yon analyzes the data given to him and then electronically signs for himself and proceeds to start eating without much fanfare. There were important things to be done, he needed to top off on fuel.
"I am most excited for this, it should prove to be a most interesting undertaking."
He pauses, trying to eat quickly while talking and then continues, not needing to take breaths. "The proper thing to do would be to introduce myself in such a situation. I find my enthusiasm for getting to this task overbearing and request we wait for when we might be able to handle such affairs without wasted time?
I have no immediate questions myself that the Ambassador could probably answer."
Once the team is sequestered in the "living" waiting area, Tylur peruses the contract again. "Looks like they're sending an observer robot with us. Interesting. Anything it broadcasts will be public record. If that's the case, I wonder how we're expected to be discreet with Nor's cargo? Surely, the robot will record our activities in securing it. Maybe the ambassador plans on editing that part out before allowing the 'bot's memory core to be examined. But, if it's a real-time broadcast, I doubt he'll be able to pull that off."
The big soldier kicks back in his chair. "What do you think, Dee? That robot might be insurance enough for us in case things go sideways. And the money's good...even if Zam and I couldn't negotiate anything higher. Either way, you gotta figure Chiskisk will be thrilled that we'll have an opportunity to examine the Acreon and the Drift Rock. I doubt Astral Extractions will feel the same. Even the Hardscrabble Collective might have reservations, despite our efforts to support Level 21 against the Downside Kings and avenge Duravor's death."
"Well, I'm in if the rest of you are in. This seems like a good opportunity as long as we keep our guard up..."
"I am most excited for this, it should prove to be a most interesting undertaking." He pauses, trying to eat quickly while talking and then continues, not needing to take breaths. "The proper thing to do would be to introduce myself in such a situation. I find my enthusiasm for getting to this task overbearing and request we wait for when we might be able to handle such affairs without wasted time? I have no immediate questions myself that the Ambassador could probably answer."
Tylur glances at the new android. This one seemed even more perplexing than Dee's initial interactions towards the group. But, if the soldier could get comfortable with her, surely he could open up with Yon.
"So, what's your deal, pal? he asks Yon, "What got you invited to this party? Are you some kind of expert on this Drift Rock? What's your angle?"
Zam is fuming, cracking her blue knuckles and sending out a telepathic message to the group, even its newest member Yon.
{Party: I don't like this at all! And I don't trust them. But I don't want to discuss it here. For now let's stay on good behavior.}
"Yes, it's just an...an amazing opportunity," Zam says in an exaggerated manner. "As we don't know much about this Drift Rock at all, I can't say I'm not curious to know why everyone is so interested in the ship. I think we should accept the mission, if for no other reason than to see it for ourselves. Everyone's so curious about it, and this is a chance to see things first hand for ourselves."
When Tylur speaks to Yon, she looks at the android too, really for the first time since they've met. "Hello! I think there's time for at least a quick introduction. I'm Zam. This is Tylur, Sybil, and Dee, in case you didn't catch it. So you're going to be joining us, then. What part do you play in all this?"
Dee watched the Android, intrigued how his mannerisms how much more in control. Unlike herself, who seemed to be struggling with basic humanoid interaction. She had listened to the Ambassador intently, gathering all the facts giving to them by the Eoxian.
“I believe that there are lost souls on the Aecron and Rock. That in itself is perhaps worth our efforts to help the cause. As for the robot, it certainly will help get closure to those who have lost loved ones, but it will also provide the publicity for the Starfinders.” Stated the Android to Tylur’s question. “Plus, as they say...the money’s pretty damn good.”
Zam enters her digital signature, accepting the terms of the assignment.
Tylur follows suit, and signs his name as well. "We're all in it together again," Tylur notes aloud, "Let's go solve this mystery..."
As soon as the final signature has been passed into the contract on your datapad, each of you is sent 600 credits via the banking system. You are all notified of deposit.
You are also all sent the following message:
The transport ship Hippocampus will be available to leave tomorrow at 9am Absolom Standard time. There will a standard issue recording drone that will there waiting at the ship. Your docking window will be about 1 hour, so please be prompt.
The assistant shows up at the door, "Thank you for time here, at the Eoxian Embassy. Let me walk you out." She waits for you to gather yourselves and walks you of the building.
You are now finally outside this bone like building. Back to the streets of the station.
Dee follows the rest of the team, simply taking everything in with interest. "So where to now friends?" Asked the elf-droid, appearing excited for the next adventure. As much excitement, she could muster.
"So, what's your deal, pal? he asks Yon, "What got you invited...
When Tylur speaks to Yon, she looks at the android too, really for the first time since they've met. "Hello! I think there's time for at least a quick introduction. I'm Zam. This is Tylur, Sybil, and Dee, in case you didn't catch it. So you're going to be joining us, then. What part do you play in all this?"
Yon begins to answer the question starting with "I see, perhaps it is rude not to introduce myself. Deal? I have the same deal as you I believe. 600 credits up front as formally negotiated... " He then pauses for Zam and with Tylur's followup and Zam's he stops to think. "Oh. I miscomputed. I see now you do not request information concerning my arrangement with the ambassador.
One moment while I consider, please." His blue lines flash momentarily as he considers, pausing when the assistant shows up.Dee follows the rest of the team, simply taking everything in with interest. "So where to now friends?"
Yon follows everyone else out, a very wide smile appearing on his face at Dee's comment, one that might appear somewhat artificial in nature.
"Thank you, Dee. I am pleased that you designate myself as a friend. I did not know I had done anything to be designated as such... This brings me great pleasure.As I was saying, I was given a slip saying to meet you all here. Prior, I was working on a temporary assignment for the Starfinder Society in order to do preliminary research and analysis into strange signals being emitted from the ship. Unfortunately, I was unable to find out very much, the signals from the Rock are indeed strange and my AI and I concur that there seems to be something strange going on. More data is needed for conjecture.
I believe it is this interest and prior research, along with capabilities I possess utilizing computers and the principles of engineering for why I have been offered the same 'deal' as you all.
I also 'bring to the table' basic skills with weaponry and armor. In addition, I am currently running a subroutine on my Exocortex to optimize my abilities in climbing, swimming, and jumping... Though perhaps such information is beyond the scope of your question?"
Does this answer your queries sufficiently, Friends?"
Sybil looks over the contract and peers up at Zam {We do not really have to trust them. Let us investigate and got from there. If there there is anything not right nothing seems to say we cannot release ourselves from the contract.}
She does indeed sign the contract and now has some credits to consider spending before the morrow's departure.
Zam nods at Sybil's remark, showing her silent agreement with everything shed said.
Out on the street, Zam smirks at Yon. Androids. "Yea, Yon, that's sufficient. Welcome to the team, I guess. It sounds like you're not any wiser than the rest of us, but we're sure glad to have the extra brain power. So you're a whiz with computers, huh? You and Dee might get along well then--she's a real wizard with technology!"
She taps her staff on her shoulder as she walks. "Well, we've got some credits to our names. Is there anything we should buy before shooting back out into space? I can't believe we're already leaving. I was just getting used to the Station."
As you start walking away, deciding what to do next, all of your phones buzz again with a message.
From: Ms. Joss. Care of: Astral Extractions
Subject: We wish to have a private meeting
Message: We ask you to attend a private meeting at our corporate headquarters in Bluerise Tower. Please reach out to us before you leave tomorrow.
Before you have a chance to process the entire message you get another message to all of your devices.
From: Captain Otal Serissi
Subject: Thank you + I wish to talk to you
Message: Hey! My name is Otal Serissi, I am the captain of the Dust Runner. I am also somewhat of an unofficial spokesperson for Hardscrabble Collective. I would love to invite you to my ship to have a quick conversation about the work you have done. We are out in the Armada. If you head to Docking Bay 37 and ask for a transport to my ship. They can bring you to me. Hope to talk to you soon. Thanks!
"Well, we've got some credits to our names. Is there anything we should buy before shooting back out into space?"
"We should probably invest in a few healing serums," Tylur remarks, "Sybil did a fine job putting us back together at the Fusion Queen against the Downsiders, but once we leave Absalom Station, we're on our own, and it'll help if everybody's got some degree of life-saving equipment on them just in case."
"In fact..." Tylur hesitates as his phone buzzes. Pausing to take a look at it, he grows silent.
As you start walking away, deciding what to do next, all of your phones buzz again with a message.
"What the hell...?! the soldier finally announces after a bit of reading, "We're barely out the door from the Eox embassy and now this...?! How'd Astral Extractions...much less the Hardscrabble Collective...get our numbers?! And, more importantly, what do they want to discuss? If they're planning to follow up on the Downsider business, we better be on our guard...that is, if we're even planning on going...Zam? What's your call?"
"Thank you," Sybil says with a nod to Tyler. "I can use healing magics, but I have others that could helps as well. So a few serums might be in order."
Looking at her comlink she looks up... "I guess that could be expected. They both want something out of this. It should be interesting to hear what they have to say... Not to mention How Astal explains how they justify murder... they had to know, considering who they hired. They want something, we should at least hear them out."
“Thank you for sharing your principal functions Yon. That was quite enlightening information.” The elf-droid responded with a nod. It was pleasurable to have another Android to connect with. “Your exocortex will indeed be quite an asset to our team.” She wanted to make him feel welcomed.
“Yes, I believe purchasing healing serums maybe to our benefit.” Dee stated, agreeing with Tylur. “I have to agree with Tylur about your skills Sybil, well done indeed.” The Technomancer was happy to have someone of the halfling skill on the team.
“Perhaps our work has made the rumor mill, providing those interested in the current situation with the Aecron may seek another viewpoint to the current situation.” deduced the Android. “If this Rock is from another part of space, there may be some valuable alloys that may interest each group involved in the legal dispute.” The elf-droid was assuming, of course, providing an additional point of view to Tylur’s comments.
“As for another purchase, I would enjoy a purchase of an upgrade to my chassis. However, I am short 100 credits.” Dee wanted to purchase jump jets, but in order to do so, she needed just a little bit more.