"Damn!" - Odo roars once the enemy spaceship is blown away - "That seemed to last FOREVER!" - he adds.
"Any chance we can maneuver close for some salvage boys?
Venture-Captain Arvin greets you with a smile as you disembark. You can undergo the tedium of a complete debrief later. First, I’ve arranged for you all to enjoy a few days’ downtime in Kemanis, at the high-end clubs, theaters, and VR parlors. You’ve earned it. But, he warns, with a sly twinkle in his eye, after that, it’ll be time to put you back to work.
"Sir yes sir. Thank you Sir!"
Kemanis is in the Eye. Stretching from Kemanis University—the station’s largest institute of higher education—to the Arcanamirium, Kemanis combines the enthusiastic energy of students with the money of the city’s elite to create the station’s most prominent entertainment district. High-end theaters, VR parlors, nightclubs, and hotels light the night with neon and even more elaborate magical advertisements. While station security keeps a tight rein on the district, a secretive group of individuals wearing white masks with a spiderweb pattern over one eye have been spotted skulking around lately, turning up in places they shouldn’t have access to. The goals of this so-called Shattereye Circle remain unknown, but whether it’s performance art or something more sinister, no one has managed to determine.
"So, where do you boys and girls want to start?" - Oderon smiles, his multiple sharp crocodile like teeth showing clearly - "I need a new armor and a new weapon, that is for sure. Then some decent food - an Algraxian steak or three should hit the spot, what do you think?"
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Yeeeee!!! That's Navasi's scream as the enemy ship blows up ...
I want to check out Kemanis. Have a couple of drinks and relax for a while.
Navasi takes the time to relax and to walk around getting to know the news and do some shopping.
I'll keep an eye and ear open for any gossip regarding Shattereye Circle.
"Sure, but we also need some gear upgrades - this armor just restricts my movement too much" - the Vesk chuckles, and draws a large pike, swinging it once or twice for good measure - "Seems I cannot swing hard enough"
Odo is constantly pulling the group to try new (and risky) expriences, usually anything related to physical exertion (in the form of combat, or otherwise), eating or drinking.
"What do you do for relaxation Navasi?"
Now that sounds like someone who just kicked some undeads in the arse!
Personally I'd rather skip to the liquor right away but I'll have some food, why not?
I know just the place where we can rest and recover. It's not fancy but they serve the best steak and scotch I've ever had!
And then maybe a trip Downlow to acquire some parts and trinkets...
Quig rubs his hands, visibly excited at this prospect...
You have a few relaxed hours in the nice part of the station. It's easy to stay out of trouble here, the whole area feels relatively safe.
On the next day, you can go to the Freemarkets to try to get most of your needs. The are several tent stalls for weapons and more military equipment or you can go to the members-only shops in the Starfinder's Lorespire complex.
For different gear a rule usually applies: the more shady it is, the deeper you need to go in the gang-controled Spike
When you're ready, Arvin expects you in his office
Usually nightclubs where I tend to find jobs or jobs tend to find me ...
And you Odo how do you keep yourself entertained?
"You know me Navasi" - the massive Vesk lumbers over to put a large arm over the human´s shoulder - "Keeping fit and upgraded, ready for the next fight. Did I ever tell you I did a short tour as a Gladiator? It was quite the learning experience" - he adds - "On the side, I guess the same as most - nice food and drink" - the warrior laughs heartily - "Heck! There is a whole universe of experiences out there - I'll grab them as they come!"
Oderon is not a silent customer - he trades opinions with the weapons and armor vendors, picks stuff out for himself and for his companions, pointing out advantages and disadvantages of this or that piece of gear. Gearing up in weapons and armor is clearly his environment, but he does turn to Quigonius for suggestions - "So, what parts and trinkets do you suggest?"
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I believe I've updated everything to level 2.
I want to buy:
- "Laser rifle, azimuth" 425 credits
The batteries from "Azimuth Laser Pistol" fit into the laser rifle?
- disguise kit 20 credits
- Mark 1 healing serum x3 150 credits
- binders x4 20 credits
Total: 615 credits
Still looking for recommended equipment like ropes and stuff.
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In the next day you arrive at Arvin’s office. He’s sitting in his chair and next to him is again the lashunta you saw the last time. He stands up and smiles as you enter – Greetings initiates, once again congratulations for a job well done. Unfortunately… – he was going to continue to speak but is interrupted by the lashunta
Yes, yes that was very good but unfortunately it won’t be enough to clear you. At least by me, and that means by the Society also – he looks sideways at Arvin who sits down and remains silent. In case you don’t know me, I’m Reani Laniros, of the Acquisitives and I’m here to make sure the mess you’ve made before doesn’t escalate because, unfortunately, it’s not forgotten. - he pauses for dramatic effect but not giving you time to respond – As such your next mission will be in the Vast, somewhere far away from here. All you have to do is try not to cause a diplomatic incident. Arvin will give you the details, goodbye With that he turns and leaves the room without pause.
When he’s gone, Arvin gets up and goes to you. Well, that was unpleased. I’m sorry but we’re still trying to deal with some fallout from the … other situation. It’s true that this mission is far but it’s easy and maybe it’s for the best that you’re away from here for some time. Well, let’s get to business. He sits down and motions you to do the same.
So, the mission is a prisoner escort to Suskillon, a planet in the Vast, roughly a month away. The Pact Worlds has been trying to get them to join us for some time but they don’t want to commit to our allegiance. A few weeks ago we found out that the elves in Castrovel managed to capture a terrorist that’s been wreaking havoc in the planet, killing scores of elves and lashuntas. We’ve later learned that he is also responsible for killing the king on Suskillon a few years ago and is at the top of their most wanted list since then. Figuring this would be a good way to improve our relations there were negotiations with Castrovel and they’ve agreed to give him to us, but only if they’re the ones handling the delivery. So basically, the Castrovel delegation will handle security and transport and you’ll just tag along.
Why are you going then, you ask? Well, we’ll send with the transport a diplomat to another round of negotiations with the Suskillon royalty and you’ll be his security detail. That and we want to make sure that the prisoner arrives alive at his destination, he’s made many enemies in Castrovel and I’m not sure we can trust his guards.
So – he leans back in his chair – any questions?
Oderon was already fuming when Reani went on his tirade, and on the verge of answering something. But since the Acquisitives representative left, he just kept quiet with a low hiss.
So – he leans back in his chair – any questions?
"Will we be getting paid? Or granted access to funds for equipment?" - the massive Vesk asked.
Always the pratical one, right? There will be payment, yes but like I said the mission is as easy as it gets, go, wait a few days and come back so don't expect a fortune. But... - he hesitates a bit - maybe there's something... personal you could do for me that could get you a few more credits?
"Of course Captain" - Oderon nods, a toothy smile beginning to show. He looks to the others for their opinion.
Personally I don't see what's so easy about doing security for a diplomat while keeping a high profile prisoner alive against unknown threats, all the while trying to avoid diplomatic mishaps.
Quig snorts and fiddles with some knobs on his drone, doing his own little pause for effect...
But I've never been one to refuse an order from my captain, or a chance to earn some extra credits. Let's hear it!
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Someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed ...
Cammon guys can't be that bad, I'm sure there will be, at least, some decent drinks to make the trip less boooring ... *chuckle*
And these things are never easy, if things go south we will have a dead prisoner on our hands, I mean we would be the perfect scapegoat for anything that happens.
For someone that doesn't want them to ally with us if they could implicate us it would be perfect to prevent the alliance.
But if you need me, I'm in!
Just want you to understand that we will probably face real danger and I hope this at least clears our name and more than pays the bills.
Now ... what was that personal favor you were asking?
The Castrovel delegation will do all the work with the prisoner both in transportation and security. - Arvin points - And I don't expect any trouble with the diplomat, Suskillon is not hostile. The Pact Worlds decided to send the starfinders because we're not military and won't send the wrong impression
He pulls himself in the chair as if whispering to you
So, about our other deal.. Don't worry, it's not anything illegal, I just need to do a favor to a friend. As I said, Suskillon is in the Vast, a place with few astral beacons, that's why the trip will be so long. We don't have much trade either, so communications are also rare and short. Recently I’ve been given word that one such communication had arrived, an old friend of mine, Jaldamarrak, tried to reach thru starfinder channels. Seeing as my reputation here is a bit… troubled of late, the message was left forgotten in an archive somewhere. It didn’t say much, he was in Suskillon and needed help investigating “strange occurrences that could mean real problems approaching”, at least that’s what he said.
He activates his datapad and shows you an image of a vesk link
So, I need you to help him out with what he needs. He’s a good person, I don’t expect anything illegal or too weird but I leave it to you to use your judgement. If you don’t feel comfortable with anything, back off and report to me later
Sounds good. Especially the drinks part.
Let's do it, Quig says without much enthusiasm. Too many unknowns, but then again when is it any different?...
If you don't have any more questions, you should present yourselves in two days at 900 hours on the space dock T.03. The ship Avius will be docked there and the Castrovel delegation will be expecting you. The diplomat Julius Xarendar wil meet you there too - he hesitates a bit - ... ask for his ID, just in case - he winks with a smile
Captain, how can we contact your friend Jaldamarrak?
He is a military by nature and not a subtle one. I'm sure he'll be public in the planet's network. If not... maybe in the local military structure
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"Of course Captain Arvin - like the others have said, we will make sure to reach out to your friend Jaldamarrak" - Oderon nods.
How come? What else can you tell us about Julius?
Sorry, it was a joke... not a very good one obviously. It was just to prevent any new confusions. Anyway, he's known in the station, you should be able to find a picture of him on the infosphere easily enough
Just to be prepared, can we have access to his itinerary and who's he gonna be talking to?
That you'll have to see with him but Im not sure even he knows. We don't know enough about Suskillon to make plans in advance
SUSKILLON
Remote World of Industry and Farmland
Comparing to standard human planet Golarion
Diameter: ×1; Mass: ×1-1/4
Gravity: ×1
Location: The Vast
Atmosphere: Normal
Government: Democracy
Day: 26 hours; Year: 298 Days
The fifth planet from its system’s sun, Suskillon features a diverse range of biomes and plentiful resources. Two major continents in opposing hemispheres, known as Alappu Major and Alappu Minor, make up the majority of the planet’s land. Oceans account for the rest of the planet’s surface, with thousands of basalt rocky island archipelagos speckled between the mainlands. The northern reaches of Alappu Major are a large semiarid desert, while the rest of the massive continent features plains, rolling hills, and mountain ranges.
Due to the tilt on Suskillon’s axis and the ecliptic orbit it follows around its sun, every few years the planet experiences radical weather patterns. Known locally as “Dry Summers” and “Dead Winters,” these two seasons last a couple of extra months and present more extreme temperatures.
You'll probably arrive in the middle one of these winters
Two days later, you arrive at the meeting point. Already waiting for you is the Pact World's diplomat Julius. Cleary overdressed for this long trip, this small and slightly overweight human exaggeratedly shows off his diplomatic seal hung around his neck. He immediately recognizes you when you approach
Finally you arrive! I grow tired of being here; these people don’t seem to recognize the importance of diplomatic duty.
Come – he points to the shipyard entrance – The castrovelians are already here, can you believe that they didn’t let me enter unless I’m with you?? Do they even know who I am? – he rolls his eyes and wait for you to lead the way
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I'm assuming that I know his face and it seems to be the same face/person.
Putting up a professional face/posture: You know procedures ...
Nevertheless, it's in everyone's interest that this mission goes as smoothly as possible and that we reach our objectives.
But, first things first, we haven't properly introduced ourselves yet, I'm Navasi, I would usually be the pilot but let's hope it doesn't come to that on this mission I show a small smile it's a pleasure to meet you!
Then I give him time to introduce himself.
Throughout our conversation, I try to detect any type of deception.
Then I go on and present the rest of the team.
And give him some more time to talk about what he knows from us and again to try to understand if he's being open with us.
It seems you are somewhat familiar with us, I guess Captain Arvin already gave you some info about us?! Only good things I expect?
"I am Oderon" - the Vesk introduces himself with a guttural voice - "I will go ahead to have a word with the Castrovelians" - then moves up in front as the others talk.
It seems you are somewhat familiar with us, I guess Captain Arvin already gave you some info about us?! Only good things I expect?
I don't know much I'm afraid. Some clerk of your starfinders sent me your pictures, you look... adequate - he seems a bit bored with the conversation - Let's get moving then
You move to the shipyard and see the ship Avius expecting you. Its’s clearly not a combat ship, it appears like a standard transport freighter of medium size
A male Lashunta clad in heavy armor stands guard but he's clearly not too concentrated, yelling to someone inside the ship Hey Omaes, do you know why elves don't wear helmets?
Because their noses are so high in the air, they'd keep falling off. AHAHAH!
He's laughing to his own joke so much that he barely sees you arriving. When he does though, he doesn’t look too worried
Hi guys, you must be the Starfinders! My name is Ness Sorual, it’s a pleasure
While you’re making the introductions Julius pipes in – Look, we’ll have more than time to.. make friends, yes? Why don’t you show me to my quarters so I can get some refreshments? Also I’ll need someone to pick up my luggage, it in that cart over th… – He’s suddenly interrupted by a gruff looking female elf coming out of the ship – There are procedures to adhere, this is not a cruise trip – She eyes the lashunta sideways.
My name is Imryll Brymenor, Captain Imryll Brymenor. I’d like to remind you that this is a military operation and as such, I’m in charge and military procedings are in effect. Your diplomatic mission is just tagging along. Pvt Sorual here will check all your ID’s and only then take you to your quarters. – She crosses her arms – And get your own damn luggage
Ness over-exagerates in his salute and speaks way too loud SIR, YESSIR!!
This obviously annoys the Captain – If you were on my unit I’d teach some manners. But I’m still the commanding officer in this mission, so do what I said – With that, she leaves
After she's gone Ness chuckles Charming, isn’t she? But she’s the boss today so let’s see some ID’s, guys
Oderon produces his ID in silence.
You show him your ID's and he leads you inside.
He takes you to your quarters and after you've settled in, Ness offers to takes you on a tour of the ship.
You have a room each, in an area reserved for living quarters
As you start it, you come across with Lukas looking exhausted with his several full bags - I want a room for myself, obviously - he puffs
The ship is relatively big, you get to know the lounge and the meal area, engineering and cargo bay. It has 3 floors but the upper one is off-limits to you. It's where the castrovelians and the prisoner are are.
After a few more preparations you fly away to space. Gou gain some distance from the space station, and the ship slows down as it charges its Drift engines. You feel a tingling as the power charges up and suddenly you're not in space anymore, your're in the Drift.
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Navasi does try to mingle ...
Elves are kinda new to me so if any of them gets out of the upper deck I try to speak with him and get to know a little bit more about his planet and elves in general ...
I may also go training with the lashunta if they let me a few times but I won't make it something regular it's just another way to get to know people around.
If I get to talk with Lukas I try to learn whatever I can about himself and the negotiations.
I try to have meals at the same time as he does so that we can talk a bit until he leaves or whatever...
Apart from that, I want to get to know the ship where's what and how I can get from A to B quickly.
I also want to get the group together in the beginning of the trip in a quiet place and say:
Guys we have to assume that something is not gonna go smoothly.
If anyone doesn't want the negotiation to happen or at least to be successful I would probably try to "help Lukas into an accident".
Do you want to set up a guard in shifts during the flight or assume everything will go smoothly until we reach the planet?
And what about once we reach the plannet?
Quig can't shake his bad feelings about this mission.
For now he's just going through the motions, tagging along with the group, introducing himself grumpily whenever necessary.
All the while he's sizing up this operation.
How many military, how many Castrovelans, who's carrying weapons and armor, guessing ranks etc.
He also checks out the ship itself, trying to gauge how fast it can go, what's the computer system like, does it pack any firepower, things like that...
I also want to get the group together in the beginning of the trip in a quiet place and say:
Guys we have to assume that something is not gonna go smoothly.
If anyone doesn't want the negotiation to happen or at least to be successful I would probably try to "help Lukas into an accident".
Do you want to set up a guard in shifts during the flight or assume everything will go smoothly until we reach the planet?
And what about once we reach the plannet?
"I would assume the trip is safe enough, but I am ok with setting up a watch just to make sure" - Oderon hisses - "Also it is always good to have eyes open during lights-out when you are in a strange place. Once we reach the planet, it is a no-brainer. We are his escort" - he shrugs - "Someone should strike up a conversation with those runts - Ness and Omaes? See if they know more about the trip, or the prisoner, along those lines. I am no good at it" - and offers a sharp toothed grin to emphasize the point.
Oderon will divide his time between the maintenance of his weapons, practicing and exercising in the training area - he will be alone, but does not shy away if others want to train in group.
If allowed, he will visit Engineering and the Medical bay, which are some areas he feels comfortable with.
He is mostly curious about Captain Imryll Brymenor, but will not purposefully strike up a conversation, unless an exceptionally good situation presents itself.
In the first few days of travel, you manage to get some more information about this outfit, especially from Ness who's always talking.
There are 8 members of the squad, 4 elves and 4 lashuntas. They weren't in the same units on Castrovel, apparently this team was formed because both races had grievances with the prisoner and wanted to make sure he was adequately taken care of.
There is always one of each race guarding them upstairs, the rest of the time, they move around the ship. The elves are more reserved but they are polite and some even friendly. The exception is the captain who looks always angry and remains as isolated as possible, even from her men, you barely see her.
They all have heavy lashunta ringwear armor and tactical acid dart rifles.
The ship is a medium transport with a light ship and three guns: one in front, one in the aft and one turret mounted. It’s not a fighting vessel at all.
The weeks pass without incidents and eventually your goal nears. Captain Arwin speaks to your comms – Attention, we’re arriving in a few hours. There’s a beacon relatively near Suskilion so we’ll come out of the Drift near to the planet itself. We’ll then go into orbit while we contact them and negotiate landing procedures, which should take another half-day. One last sitrep to review procedures and do an equipment check and we'll start our descent