First Seeker Luwazi Elsebo steps forward to her podium addressing the Starfinder fleet. “Starfinders, after two years of hardship following our devastating first foray into the Scoured Stars, we now stand taller than ever and are back to fighting form. Today, new recruits rally beside experienced agents and rescued veterans, coming together to form the most resourceful, prepared, and skilled organization the Pact Worlds have ever known. This newfound strength comes not a moment too soon, for the threat within the Scoured Stars is unlike any we’ve ever faced: a hostile military force known as the jinsuls, committed to our complete destruction. Stopping the Jinsul Hierocracy will challenge us more than anything we’ve done before, but what I’ve seen from our agents these past two years assures me that we are more than up to the task! Your orders will arrive shortly; for now, gather your equipment, finish your preparations, and send any messages you wish before we reach the Scoured Stars.”
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Standing in the crowd, listening intently to the First seeker is a tall bipedal Wolf like man with dark blue fur with silver-white lunar crescent shaped markings across the left side of their face and neck. The Vlakan wears bulky armour with an Indigo robe over it embroidered with arcane sigils and has two pistols strapped to their waist. Intricately carved bones are tied to the butt of both pistols and from various places across the armour giving the Mystic a Shamanistic feel.
They pan their head from side to side as if taking in the room, however their red eyes are milky and clearly do not work, though their ears and nostrils twitch occasionally taking in the myriad of sights and sounds.
Hundreds of Starfinder agents hustle throughout the loading docks aboard the ever-impressive and newly refurbished Master of Stars, the pinnacle of the Starfinder fleet. Junior agents hastily pack every docked starship with weapons, armor, spare parts, and provisions, while technical staff runs diagnostics on starship armaments and senior officers finalize flight formations and supply routes. Many Starfinders’ faces are dark with uncertainty, but the fiery resolve burns in their eyes.
Venture-Captain Arvin, a damaya lashunta man, emerges from the shifting crowd of activity, his expression hard with repressed concern. He points out to each of you and gives a whistle to the clouded-eyed vlaka, calling all of you together. “It seems fate has made soldiers out of explorers. We’ve always prepared our agents to navigate danger and violence, but never anything like this. Still, there isn’t another organization in the Pact Worlds that I would trust more with this daunting task.” He pauses for a moment, then shakes himself back to attention. “Right, much left to do! There are still a few specialized tasks remaining that you might be able to help us complete.”
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It is about time! a tall vesk booms out in agreement as the Frist Seeker finishes her preemptive pep talk. Looking around at the assembled starfinder,s the reptilian adjusts her armor. A strong turnout for this mission. They're actually taking this seriously. Good!
Noticing another Stafinder beside her, she turns and speaks to the colleague. A fine enough speech I suppose. Of course actions always carry much further than words. Have you fought these Jinsul before friend?
It takes several seconds before she realizes his condition and belatedly adds. Oh, my pardons. Krara N'Krom. I'm guessing you have not seen my AEVG matches, but perhaps you have heard the play-by-plays?
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Seeing a number of key Starfinder leaders rushing about for final preparations, Krara notices Ziggy trying to get supplies together and looks to see if the shirren requires assistance.
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Hearing someone speak to them, Requiem turns to face the large Vesk. ”I have listened to some of the commentary for those matches when learning of Veskarium culture, your name I recognise from the leaderboard but I have not had the pleasure of hearing your own match i’m afraid.” they reply good naturedly wiith a toothy grin.
Hearing the sharp whistle from Arvin, Requiem goes to the Lashunta, ”Hello friend! Can I be of service at this time? It seems we have some time before departure”
Krara is directed to cargo bay Beta-7 to find Ziggy. She arrives a to find Zigvigix, the leader of the Exo-Guardians, sitting before an immense cargo bay filled with crates of supplies. The shirren catches sight of the vesk and calls her over. “They say an army marches on its stomach, but I say it also fights with guns and ammo! Can you take a look at all our gear to make sure it works and then load it onto the ships? Just try to keep the explosives separated from the food, please. We don’t want to have that mistake happen again!”
He then points you to a large stack of crates of all sorts, some of which have clearly been placed upside down and one you think might be leaking something. A few others seem to be working on their own piles nearby. One of them stops and stares at Krara. "Damn you're tall, even for a vesk. You have much experience with supplies before? It don't seem your skill set..."
Hearing the sharp whistle from Arvin, Requiem goes to the Lashunta, ”Hello friend! Can I be of service at this time? It seems we have some time before departure”
The lanshunta smiles, unconsiously giving off the scent of someone meeting a friendly face. "You certianly can. We could use your help anywhere you see fit. I could sue some help relaxing some anxious new recruits, Fitch is trying to do some last minute repairs on the Master of Stars. Ziggy is going through supplies and loading them onto the ships. Historia... Celita is doing something techincal to help us get there faster, and Radsazam is going over possible tactics we could take in the Scoured Stars. Oh, and Iteration-177 seemed a bit anxious and could probably use some company as they mentally prepare. Now we should probably stop standing around and get going. I'm going to go make sure the rookies are feeling okay."
Arvin starts to gesture for the vlaka to follow him before celaring his voice. "Well then follow me. I'm sure I could use the help."
The man leads you to the mess hall and pauses as he enters the room. The scent of anxiety and nervousness washes over you as the sounds of fiddly and rapid breathing assails your ears. Arvin takes a moment to analyze the men before commenting, “Those green agents are not ready for a battle against an organized foe. Sadly, they’re liabilities when they’re frightened. Talk them through some of your experiences, set them at ease, and help them prepare for the challenges they’ll face ahead. We need them primed and ready for combat if we’re going to win this.”
He steps up on a prepared box and addresses the crowd. "New recruits, I won't lie we have a hard mission ahead of us, but you can and will likely survive this. But I've brought an experienced Starfinder here to tell you about what a mission can mean."
He steps down off the box and gently guides Requiem to it. As you step up one of the recruits pipes up. "You're blind? Did you get blinded during a mission?"
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Arching over the rest of the crowd, you see an olive skinned vesk who approaches the group. He looks very lean and sternly observes the group of starfinders in front of him. He reaches behind him to adjust the large tactical swoop hammer adorned with memorabilia on his back.
"Is this crew which I have been assigned to? Good. This will do. You're not like the toughs from Vesk V, but stay behind me, follow my lead - and I promise you - victory shall be ours on this day! I am Captain Rahdokama of the 74th V-battalion. I have been sent as an ambassador from the empire to liase with the Starfinders in assesing the Jinsul threat at the Scoured Stars."
He is happy to see another vesk in the group, "Krara! A warriors name!" He also notions to the vlaka standing in the team, "And a lupus as well! I sure am glad we have you and your nose on our side!"
"How are you Zigvigix, been a while hasn't it? Looks like we need to do another supply run before we can set off, let me take point, what needs to be done?" He is extremely comfortable around his factions leader, happy and content with the creatures leadership.
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Stepping on to the box, Requiem takes a moment to take in the sounds and smells of the room and its occupants and their nervous dispositions. Smiling at the inquisitive agent who asked about his lack of vision they answer calmly.
"I did not lose my sight so much as I was not born with the ability to see. We Vlakans are a diverse race, some of us are born without sight, others without hearing and yet others are born with both capabilities- the reasons why are lost to us, but it is our heritage."
With the icebreaker out of the way, Requiem continues softly and calmly, hoping to be reassuring.
"I have been to the Scoured Stars system where we all go today, I was one of those stuck behind the Godshield when it flared up. Surviving the place is necessary and driving back the warlike Jinsul is a necessity." he begins, turning their face to meet those in the room, despite being unable to see them. "Since returning I have helped build and fortify new alliances with previously unknown planets In the vast by escorting one of their ambassadors and ensuring their safety and understanding of our proud culture in the Pact Worlds. Without the brave work we undertake today there will be no planets for us to ally with and I know you all here are capable of co-operating in our latest exploration and I look forward to listening to your reports."
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Vexus hurries to catch up to the Vlaka, coming in just on the tail end of his story.
The pale, four armed ghoul-like android gesticulates his arms in the air and booms out in an amplified voice after Roheas is finished -
"My fellow Starfinders. My companion speaks of necessity, and he is right to do so, but as explorers and warriors of the Pact Worlds, it is our privilege to not only do what is needed. We must go beyond! As a Starfinder I have ventured to Hell itself, striking the damned with the very hands I wave before you now, and returned to tell the tale! No jinsul can frighten me now."
"How are you Zigvigix, been a while hasn't it? Looks like we need to do another supply run before we can set off, let me take point, what needs to be done?" He is extremely comfortable around his factions leader, happy and content with the creatures leadership.
Ziggy's antennae waggle happily at the sight of the vesk. "Rahdokama! It has been a while. It'll be good to have you here and helping. Here can you load those supplies over there on to that transport? Oh and double check that the labels on the outside are actually what's inside them. Don't want a repeat of the Exploding Biscuits Incident, eh?"
"I have been to the Scoured Stars system where we all go today, I was one of those stuck behind the Godshield when it flared up. Surviving the place is necessary and driving back the warlike Jinsul is a necessity." he begins, turning their face to meet those in the room, despite being unable to see them. "Since returning I have helped build and fortify new alliances with previously unknown planets In the vast by escorting one of their ambassadors and ensuring their safety and understanding of our proud culture in the Pact Worlds. Without the brave work we undertake today there will be no planets for us to ally with and I know you all here are capable of co-operating in our latest exploration and I look forward to listening to your reports."
Requiem slowly hears the crowd grow less restless as they listen to his reasoned words. The scent of fear seems to dissipate heavily though it still lingers in the area. It seems like you were able to quell the crowds worries to a certain degree.
The pale, four armed ghoul-like android gesticulates his arms in the air and booms out in an amplified voice after Roheas is finished -
"My fellow Starfinders. My companion speaks of necessity, and he is right to do so, but as explorers and warriors of the Pact Worlds, it is our privilege to not only do what is needed. We must go beyond! As a Starfinder I have ventured to Hell itself, striking the damned with the very hands I wave before you now, and returned to tell the tale! No jinsul can frighten me now."
As the crowd starts to applaud Requiem's speech, Vexus bursts into the room and jumps up onto the podium, startling the crowd and stirring up their fear again, but this time of the android-himself. one of the recruits comments, "Hell? If we have people this scary on our side we shouldn't have to fear the jinsul!"
Arvin thanks the two people and looks at his comms unit for a second. "Seems we still have some time before leaving. Why don't you go and help some others with their preparations?"
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He nods at Ziggy, smiling as he moves to pick up the supply caches. As he is walking with his mentor, he gives a passing comment, "Indeed, did you end up watching that episode of Live, Exploration, Extreme!? Hmph, i told the world i would take the fight to the jinsul, and here we are! I cant wait to squish all these bugs!"
"Sure did! And I had no doubts. Anyways let'S get these finished!" Ziggy moves on to helping the next group of people as someone starts lifting what looks like a cooling unit with their back, giving Rahdo some time to focus on his work. After a bit you've loaded most of the crates, but as you move the third to last you realize that container is labeled flour, but the material inside is instead powdered nitroglycerin, based on the smells of it.
After warning Ziggy, and an investigation of the crates with Krara, it seems about half of the crates from Whitepowders'r'us had been mislabeled. He gives a grateful sigh of relief and promises he'll help you find some good weaponry to borrow in the future.
Zigvigix grants your team priority access to some Starfinder Society equipment. Once during the adventure, each of you can requisition a weapon with an item level up to your level +1 for the duration of one mission. The group must use this ability prior to starting a new encounter, and this ability cannot be used during Part 4. The weapon comes with a full battery or magazine. Additionally, each of you can also requisition a single consumable item with an item level up to your level. These consumables cannot have permanent effects, and any items not used during the course of the scenario must be returned at the end of the adventure.
The shirren looks at the rapidly emptying cargo bay and turns to the two vesk helping him. "Looks like I'm set here. You two could probably go and help someone else if you want. There might be some time still."
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A slender android walks into the bay, having made no effort to disguise to her bionic nature. A severe bob frames her face, which is seamed with the lines of synth-flesh. She calmly scans the scene, then approaches Celita.
"Greeting Celita, or perhaps an introduction is in order. We haven't met since you recovered your identity, at least, not in meatspace. What can I do to help get this ship ready?"
A slender android walks into the bay, having made no effort to disguise to her bionic nature. A severe bob frames her face, which is seamed with the lines of synth-flesh. She calmly scans the scene, then approaches Celita.
"Greeting Celita, or perhaps an introduction is in order. We haven't met since you recovered your identity, at least, not in meatspace. What can I do to help get this ship ready?"
Wraith finds that the woman she approached just happened to look like Celita, a few questions later the android is directed to the main frame of the Master of Stars.
Arriving Wraith finds Celita, leader of the Dataphiles, feverishly works on the mainframe in the command center of the Master of Stars. The woman stops for a moment as Wraith approaches. “Greetings, Wraith. I do remember you, but I guess I should introduce myself. I’m Celita of the Dataphiles. But more important than the formalities, I think I’ve devised a way to artificially replicate the resonance effects of the Tear relic to help our ships stay in communication and traverse the Drift more precisely. I need you to double-check my code for errors and then see if you can shield the network from detection by jinsul sensors.”
Going over to Fitch, he offers. "There's much to be done. How can I help."
Fitch takes a look at the young dwarf. "Come with me, I've got something you can do!" The ysoki walks you to an airlock leading out to some of the scaffolding on the ship’s exterior. “It’s strange to not have my children aboard, but this is no time to be bringing the young ones along. Last time, the jinsul capital ships chased away our carriers. I’d love to see how their flagship holds up against ours, but we’re still not quite finished with renovations. Try to wrap up the finishing touches on this gem of a ship— I want the last thing those jinsuls see is just how brightly it shines.”
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Requiem or Vexus, would either of those be from scenarios you have the chronicle for? It can change the level of success if they are.
Bowing to the rookie agents and then to Arvin, Requiem takes the Lashunta’s advice and leaves the bay and makes enquiries as to where his team has gone. Deciding to visit the enigmatic Iteration-177 to they and soothe their worries as well. Asking to be shown to the Android, Requiem greets them.
”Greetings Sir, I know we have not met before but I have been to the Scoured Stats once before and wondered if we could aid one another in preparing for the journey ahead? “
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Arching over the rest of the crowd, you see an olive skinned vesk who approaches the group. He looks very lean and sternly observes the group of starfinders in front of him. He reaches behind him to adjust the large tactical swoop hammer adorned with memorabilia on his back.
"Is this crew which I have been assigned to? Good. This will do. You're not like the toughs from Vesk V, but stay behind me, follow my lead - and I promise you - victory shall be ours on this day! I am Captain Rahdokama of the 74th V-battalion. I have been sent as an ambassador from the empire to liase with the Starfinders in assesing the Jinsul threat at the Scoured Stars."
He is happy to see another vesk in the group, "Krara! A warriors name!" He also notions to the vlaka standing in the team, "And a lupus as well! I sure am glad we have you and your nose on our side!"
Krara is equally delighted to see a fellow vesk. It seems like a good cohort indeed! A pleasure to meet you Captain! It's been too long since I have been back in the Veskarium. This Society manages to get results, but I miss the order of the Military. She gestures at the mis-labelled crates they are sorting through as they talk. Case in point!
As the two of them finish assisting 'Ziggy' with supplies, she notices a third vesk poring over maps: Radaszam! Moving over to the Acquisitive, Krara gives the VIP a hearty pat on the back. Radaszam! Is this our plan of battle for the day? Tell me: you will allow me and my squad to wade into the thick of it this time instead of being relegated to reserves, won't you?
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[b]"Not exactly my forte, but I know my way around a spanner and a blowtorch. Though I do have an idea or two that I got from a mission to help the Church of Triune. We were dodging some debris and phenomenon from the elemental planes. (1-25 Beacon Code Dilemma). I was commanding the ship, but we made it through due to skill of our pilot and the technical savvy of science officer.
Arvin gives the two impromptu speakers a broad smile, "You two were amazing. They seem to have finally calmed down and are probably not going to do stupid things in fear. You two might have potential in motivation speaking, if you're interested in that. Maybe you can pep up your friends during their trip?"
”Greetings Sir, I know we have not met before but I have been to the Scoured Stats once before and wondered if we could aid one another in preparing for the journey ahead? “
Requiem finds Iteration-177, the enigmatic android, in a conference room. He sits staring at a vid screen of the stars before turning and standing up. As charming as ever, or at least so you've heard, the android extends a hand. “It never hurts to meet new people. As you've probably already heard I'm Iteration-177. And you my lupine friend are?... It appears I finally get to participate in a famed Starfinder adventure! I suspect you still have some desire to seek solace with the divine before heading into battle? I too, know this desire. I’m more than happy to converse, if you’d care to sit and chat.”
"I am sure your coding is impeccable, but I will check."
"I can find no errors."
Wraith takes a look at Celita's code but it seems like it should work fine, but when the android hands back the data pad, Celita gives a small frown. "Dang, but there is definitely something wrong here, it keeps giving me error codes. Hrm, do you have any friends who might be able to help?"
As the two of them finish assisting 'Ziggy' with supplies, she notices a third vesk poring over maps: Radaszam! Moving over to the Acquisitive, Krara gives the VIP a hearty pat on the back. Radaszam! Is this our plan of battle for the day? Tell me: you will allow me and my squad to wade into the thick of it this time instead of being relegated to reserves, won't you?
Vexus heads over to Radaszam as well, finding the Vesk always happy to have a few extra helping hands around. Arriving after Krara, he booms out "I like this guy's gumption!"
Radaszam overlooks a large holographic map of the Scoured Stars system, overlaid with smaller, more detailed maps of terrain on specific planets. He gives a small grunt and greeting of acknowledgement at the two new people in the room, still focused on the maps. “Not sure anyone is going to have the coward's option of staygin back might need all capable hands on the frontlines for this one. I don’t know about you, but I’m keen to take this fight to the jinsuls on their home turf. We have topographic data collected from our last foray into the Scoured Stars, plus some information on fighting styles our agents have reported from past jinsul encounters. See if you can make sense of it all and formulate a plan of attack.”
"Not exactly my forte, but I know my way around a spanner and a blowtorch. Though I do have an idea or two that I got from a mission to help the Church of Triune. We were dodging some debris and phenomenon from the elemental planes. (1-25 Beacon Code Dilemma). I was commanding the ship, but we made it through due to skill of our pilot and the technical savvy of science officer.
Basalt makes next to no headway on the repairs he'd been tasked with but he seems to have certainly entertained the ysoki working nearby him. Fitch gives the man a nod commenting, "Having friends to rely on in space is important... Speaking of which, can you pass me that spanner? Perfect. Actually come over here, this would be great for you to see. I'm sure your starship will have something similar to this..." The gregarious engineer then takes the next 20 minutes or so explaining how the power transmitters on the ship work and you feel it could readily be applied to what every ship you fly. At least short term.
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Vexus shoots four finger guns at Arvin and says "Just doing our part!"
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Vexus shrugs and replies to Radaszam "Alright boss. I'll take a look."
He has fought the Jinsul before, so he can bring a little experience to bear
Looking it over, he says "I remember the spider-squid things like to keep a spellcaster around to back up the troops. We gotta watch out for that. Always get the caster first, ya know?"
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Radaszam overlooks a large holographic map of the Scoured Stars system, overlaid with smaller, more detailed maps of terrain on specific planets. He gives a small grunt and greeting of acknowledgement at the two new people in the room, still focused on the maps. “Not sure anyone is going to have the coward's option of staygin back might need all capable hands on the frontlines for this one. I don’t know about you, but I’m keen to take this fight to the jinsuls on their home turf. We have topographic data collected from our last foray into the Scoured Stars, plus some information on fighting styles our agents have reported from past jinsul encounters. See if you can make sense of it all and formulate a plan of attack.”
Krara smiles and peers over the system map. Of course. I've only battled the spider once, but it was right on their own world. Or what was left of it: the jinsul'd taken all their best warriors and left the rest behind.
She points to a planet where a cluster of jinsul are marked. Know what that tells me? They aren't the sentimental types. If a position's looking like it will be lost, my guess is they'll cut their losses quick rather than dig in, even if it leaves letting the rearguard be ovverrun. But if we plan for that, and cut off the quick retreat vectors...
The vesk outlines some possible tactics with Radaszam based on her experience on Rax
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Requiem smiles at Iteration and bows, the carved bones on their armour clacking together softly. "My name translates best as Requiem in the Pact World tongue so feel free to stay with that." Requiem then takes a seat at the conference table and takes a moment to centre their thoughts. "Thankyou - I worship Yaressa, Goddess of Magic and have the honour of being a Spirit-Talker of my people, the Vlakan. I see to the spiritual well-being of the Vlakan in our search to save our world. Tell me, what is your take on the Divine? Do you yourself worship a deity?"
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Perplexed by the coding errors, Wraith wanders the hangar until she comes upon Basalt and Fitch.
"Can I assist you?"
Piloting
"Your story reminds me of a mission I once piloted. After exploring a derelict ship, we were engaged by organic lifeforms who adhered to some atavistic cultural practices surrounding starship duels. They actually risked their lives and ours to test our sense of honor. A strange feature of organic cultures, this concept of honor."
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She points to a planet where a cluster of jinsul are marked. Know what that tells me? They aren't the sentimental types. If a position's looking like it will be lost, my guess is they'll cut their losses quick rather than dig in, even if it leaves letting the rearguard be ovverrun. But if we plan for that, and cut off the quick retreat vectors...
Rahdokhama overhears the conversation and eagerly strolls over to join in, "HMPPH! THIS IS WONDERFUL! Does that mean you think we have a good chance of squishing these bugs where they stand, Krara? Tell me, what would be your tactic of choice when it comes to piloting a ship against them. Do we fly straight at them and shoot them out of the stars, or do we maneuver and use finesse to fight tactically?"
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The vesk straightens herself up high as the captain approaches. The one's I saw weren't exactly officer-class. But my gut would be to try and overwhlem them quickly in the vacuum. Since so many of their ships seem to be good at spinning in place. spending too much time and energy trying to outflank them could expose our own ship for too long.
Of course I hear that android came here on his own personal vessel. That may have some secrets under the hood we're all not used to. she admits.
Vexus shrugs and replies to Radaszam "Alright boss. I'll take a look."
He has fought the Jinsul before, so he can bring a little experience to bear
Looking it over, he says "I remember the spider-squid things like to keep a spellcaster around to back up the troops. We gotta watch out for that. Always get the caster first, ya know?"
Krara smiles and peers over the system map. Of course. I've only battled the spider once, but it was right on their own world. Or what was left of it: the jinsul'd taken all their best warriors and left the rest behind.
She points to a planet where a cluster of jinsul are marked. Know what that tells me? They aren't the sentimental types. If a position's looking like it will be lost, my guess is they'll cut their losses quick rather than dig in, even if it leaves letting the rearguard be ovverrun. But if we plan for that, and cut off the quick retreat vectors...
The vesk outlines some possible tactics with Radaszam based on her experience on Rax
Radaszam grins at the insightful answers. "And that's why I like to bring in independent contractors, or in this case others! You always have a different outlook. We certainly should over run their casters, generally sound but if we wait too long on that front it could be a problem. And if that works we plan for them to retreat quickly and head them off at a weak point in their escapes. I like it, means we have to commit less resources initially... Sad to say that might leave you off the front lines there Krara. Eh, I'm teasing you, with thos insights I'd want you in the thick of it."
Requiem smiles at Iteration and bows, the carved bones on their armour clacking together softly. "My name translates best as Requiem in the Pact World tongue so feel free to stay with that." Requiem then takes a seat at the conference table and takes a moment to centre their thoughts. "Thankyou - I worship Yaressa, Goddess of Magic and have the honour of being a Spirit-Talker of my people, the Vlakan. I see to the spiritual well-being of the Vlakan in our search to save our world. Tell me, what is your take on the Divine? Do you yourself worship a deity?"
Iteration-177 nods faintly at the shaman's introduction. "I'd love to hear what your true name is as well. But my take on the divine is... a complex matter. I'll get into it in a moment, but I do not worship my self. That path leads to problems like the one we are going to stop. My counterpart Dhurus is the reason the jinsul have become so aggressive and we need to stop him before he steals our progenitor's power for himself. Now about my relationship with the divine... I'm sure you've already heard the rumors, but I am one of Kadrical's heralds, sent out when the god started to wake and find his people, the people of the Scoured Stars, gone. Thus for me, divinity is..." The android carries on for a bit longer sharing things about himself that seem to spark some sort of insight in yourself.
"Your story reminds me of a mission I once piloted. After exploring a derelict ship, we were engaged by organic lifeforms who adhered to some atavistic cultural practices surrounding starship duels. They actually risked their lives and ours to test our sense of honor. A strange feature of organic cultures, this concept of honor."
Wraith finds the two of them working next to window, the ysoki gestures for her to come and join them. Outside, Wraith's expertise in flying proves to be beneficial, her experience in how much power a drive at various levels draws proves to be exactly what Fitch was looking for. "That's perfect! Of course I don't have to give the drives full power all the time! If I make a shifter that intergrates with the throttle I can probably even make it near instantaneous. I can't believe I overlooked that! Also that was a nice story, come on over here and watch as integrate that switch. Maybe you 'll learn something too!"
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Radaszam grins at the insightful answers. "And that's why I like to bring in independent contractors, or in this case others! You always have a different outlook. We certainly should over run their casters, generally sound but if we wait too long on that front it could be a problem. And if that works we plan for them to retreat quickly and head them off at a weak point in their escapes. I like it, means we have to commit less resources initially... Sad to say that might leave you off the front lines there Krara. Eh, I'm teasing you, with thos insights I'd want you in the thick of it."
Krara's scales seem to shimmer with pride at the compliments from the mercenary leader.
With the task ahead being military, Basalt goes to reflect on the teachings of Angradd, the Forge-Fire.
[ooc]Go speak with Iteration-177]
Iteration-177 pauses in his pondering of Absalom station and the s towards the dwarf. "I take it you've also come seeking some kind of spiritual guidance today? Heading into what is probably the closest thing to a war many of us have seen is... Hard to say the least. How might I be able to help?"
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As Basalt arrives to speak with Iteration, Requiem stands and bows to the Herald with a smile. "My thanks for your wisdom, I shall ponder on it further. I am glad you are with us." Taking their leave, Requiem retreats to a quieter room for a while in order to check over their gear and pray to their Goddess for guidance in the task to come. Having little knowledge or skill with machines the Vlakan does not wish to get under Celita's feet and so keeps out of the way.
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"My people worship Angradd. He espouses tradition, hard work, and war. I've done the first two, but this is the first time I've gone to war. As a Starfinder, I've participated in small battles, one time against a dragon, but never a conflict like the one we're going into. I've come to speak with Angradd and, hopefully find his favor. Can you help me with that?"
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Krara wanders towards the Dataphiles faction leader, looking over the android's shoulder. It is good to see you up and about already Histor- no Celita now, yes?
The vesk tries to look over the calculations cascading down the computer screens, but the nuances of the math are significantly above her head. So this...thing you are doing here is related to that Tear energy? Well, we have two, correct? And the jinsul have six in a way. Because several of their chiefs ate one, and then their commander Dhurus strapped those ones to several of their command ships...
As preparations wind down, a stillness settles over the crowd of Starfinders gathered on the command deck of the Master of Stars. First Seeker Jadnura, flanked by nominated First Seeker Luwazi Elsebo and the android Iteration-177, steps forward to an elevated captain’s platform and looks out over the assembled agents. Jadnura’s resonant voice carries across the assembly. “Starfinders! Today we gather not merely as explorers and scholars, but as defenders of the galaxy. Ever since the jinsuls ambushed our rescue mission into the Scoured Stars, they have assailed us and our allies at every turn. The danger the jinsuls present to our friends and homes cannot be ignored. We now know that they intend to awaken the divine being responsible for trapping our first expedition into the Scoured Stars. We know that this scheme threatens not only the Scoured Stars but all the space surrounding it. This leaves us with one mission: break the jinsul fleet and drive them from the Scoured Stars, putting an end to their depredations once and for all. Today we march to war!”
The Starfinders disperse to their ships and launch into orbit, assembling into either tactical strike formations or vanguards surrounding the larger vessels. The fleet’s synchronized screens flash to life, showing Luwazi Elsebo from her own command station. “We are ready to approach the Scoured Stars system from the outer orbit of the Agillae system’s star. The majority of our fleet will stay together to protect our supplies and support our ground troops, while our field agents are to scout the system and find the most strategic places to engage the jinsuls. Kadrical’s divine herald, Dhurus, is the head of the snake: find where he is hiding so we can direct our full forces against him. Once we close in on him, we can face down Dhurus on equal footing and end this conflict.”
Luwazi nods to the camera. “Stick together, support each other, and stay the course. We live or die as one today. Good luck, Starfinders. Fleet—activate Drift engines now!” The screen shuts off, and each formation of starships surges forward as a unit, vanishing into the Drift.
★ ---- ★ ---- ★ ---- ★
The Starfinder fleet emerges from the Drift as a single force, the three suns of the Scoured Stars burning brightly against the surrounding void. Moments later, onboard computers ping with streams of incoming data detailing nearby jinsul ships, planets with concentrated industrial activity, and further commands from the First Seekers. Several files emerge on the captains’ screens: briefings of locations where field agents could find useful information about how best to target the jinsul fleet’s weak points.
As Basalt arrives to speak with Iteration, Requiem stands and bows to the Herald with a smile. "My thanks for your wisdom, I shall ponder on it further. I am glad you are with us." Taking their leave, Requiem retreats to a quieter room for a while in order to check over their gear and pray to their Goddess for guidance in the task to come. Having little knowledge or skill with machines the Vlakan does not wish to get under Celita's feet and so keeps out of the way.
Iteration gives the vlaka a grateful smile. "And I am glad you are here too. You have helped me settle my mind about what needs to be done. Truly thank-you."
"My people worship Angradd. He espouses tradition, hard work, and war. I've done the first two, but this is the first time I've gone to war. As a Starfinder, I've participated in small battles, one time against a dragon, but never a conflict like the one we're going into. I've come to speak with Angradd and, hopefully find his favor. Can you help me with that?"
Iteration gives the dwarf a small nod. "I can certainly try. I'm not sure if Angradd would acknowledge one such as myself, but your earnest petitions would hopefully be well heard! Now, come and show me what rights and prayers one loyal to Angradd uses..." He spends some time in prayer with you, asking the dwarven deity to bless you and this trip as well.
Krara wanders towards the Dataphiles faction leader, looking over the android's shoulder. It is good to see you up and about already Histor- no Celita now, yes?
The vesk tries to look over the calculations cascading down the computer screens, but the nuances of the math are significantly above her head. So this...thing you are doing here is related to that Tear energy? Well, we have two, correct? And the jinsul have six in a way. Because several of their chiefs ate one, and then their commander Dhurus strapped those ones to several of their command ships...
Celita gives a small smile at the vesk's well-wishes. "I am glad I could be up and about for this too. Though androids tend to be very good at recovering." She turns back to her work, typing away at a data pad, lending an ear to Krara's stories, but pauses for a second on the mention of six Tears. "Wait did you say there were six chiefs? Six? Triune damn I had been working under the theory that there were 5! That makes this significantly easier to organize. Wraith had even mentioned that using a sextic equation would make this significantly easier to run! I cannot believe I missed that!" She types qway furiously for a good 20-25 minutes, editing parts removing large sections and adding in only a little more. She then runs a test and seems satisfied at the result. "This code could definitely use a good check and clean-up but this should work for now. Thank-you.... uh Krara was it?"
As you drop out of the drift, information floods your sensors. After a few minutes of nothing, you get orders from Radaszam to join his fleet in a quick scouting of a suspicious energy reading on Callion-2. The scans from space prove to be inconclusive, leading to your team heading down to the surface.
An hour or so later, you hear a few short burst of unusual radio calls, but not enough to distract you from what turns out to be an old and clearly abandoned Thaseron mine. After about 10 minutes of radio silence, Radaszam himself radios down. "If you're done down there, I've got something I need you to handle up here."
You shuttle back up to you ship in orbit. Coming onto the bridge you find the Aquisitives leader. Radaszam’s already imposing vesk figure appears extra threatening as he looms over a bound jinsul. “Let me introduce you to my guest, Teskrkah, a jinsul who claims to have betrayed her teammates — those teammates being an assassination squad sent to kill me. Now, I don’t know what to believe, so I want you to figure out the truth here. I have some bigger fires I need to put out at the moment, so I’m handing this off to you. I’ve programmed the computer to translate for you if you need it. Remember, we’re Starfinders and not depraved killers, so don’t torture this pitiful creature. Just get what information you can from her. Engage the ship’s autopilot once you’ve gotten her to talk and it’ll bring you right to my location.”
Radaszam then leaves the ship and the captive in your hands, taking a shuttle back to his own starship and returning to the main fleet. Upon Radaszam’s departure, Teskrkah violently struggles against her restraints for a moment, then slumps into the chair with a series of mandible clicks.
The computer registers the clicks as a language and translates, “Dhurus, though an abominable curse on my people, seems set to mount you atop its flagship, as it did to the great heroes we once followed.”
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Entering the interrogation room, Requiem takes a moment to read the Jinsul to ensure they are fully what they appear to be - a contrite captive and not a secret weapon against the inner workings of the Society.
Unable to get a read on their alien psychology, Requiem decides to focus on the support role in the interrogation, sure that one of their allies would have better luck.
"Whilst we are here to put a stop to the Jinsul's warpath, the Society is known to work with all that would co-operate with us. If you help us stop this grave going on then we can surely help you against repercussions."
and even the distant Pact Worlds.
"Whilst we are here to put a stop to the Jinsul's warpath, the Society is known to work with all that would co-operate with us. If you help us stop this grave going on then we can surely help you against repercussions."Requiem notices the woman's mandibles click in a slightly agitated manner, as if she is pondering her options.
The dwarf gets close to the alien and looks it over.
"Your time here will be short unless you give us something worthwhile. Start by telling me of your people, these great heroes you mentioned, and of Dhurus."
At the mention of Dhurus, Basalt gets the distinct impression that the woman loathes the name. Pressing further with his words, the woman finally spits out a series of clicks and clacks that the computer translates in a flat monotone, "The herald is a blasphemer, I tell you. He tied our immortal heroes to their ships and forces us to fight! I swear he sounds like he wants to usurp Kladrical!" After her quick angry out burst she clams up for a moment.
Krara stands in the rear of the room as Basalt and Requiem try to reason with the creature. The vesk is skeptical, but remains silent and trying to look as imposing as possible - if this doesn't work, perhaps a more direct way might.
Vexus nods to Krara and stands by, ready to back the Vesk up with a harder approach should it be needed.
Both Vexus and Krara get the impression that there's not much more that honeyed words would be able to do to get her to open up. She's definitely steeled herself to the 'good cop' routine.