Some individual wandering later...
It had been a long day for everyone, and the implications of what they were brushing against were significant. If what had learned was true, even through compiling what they had learned, those were only the most recent actions taken over something that had yet to be identified.
The Cosmonastery of the Empty Orbit radiates a quiet majesty under the dim glow of Absalom Station’s artificial starlight. Near midnight, the training center is hushed, the stillness punctuated only by the faint hum of gravitic stabilizers and the occasional soft chime of solarian resonators. The walls, an interplay of dark stone and translucent materials, seem to shift with faint, celestial patterns, as if reflecting the cosmic forces its inhabitants strive to master. Along the outer edges of the monastery, voidwalk gardens—open spaces lined with shimmering panels that emulate the emptiness of space—glow faintly with ethereal light, casting elongated shadows of robed figures deep in meditative stances. The air is cool and laden with a sense of infinite possibility, as if the teachings here extend far beyond the station’s confines. At the heart of the Cosmonastery, a grand orrery projects silent, holographic images of celestial bodies in motion, a reminder of the Solarian ethos: the delicate balance between creation and destruction, light and shadow.
At the Cosmonastery, evidence of your mote is enough to grant entry— after registration, of course– while a small donation or offering allows temporary access to some features of the monastery itself, books and journaled observations able to be accessed by your comm, all for the duration of your access. A more permanent access is available, the relevant costs justifiable and easily above-board.
The Puddles is quite the experience, nearly an entire level completely submerged and functioning as needed for those species that required (or preferred) submersion in water to survive. While it is completely able to be traversed without immersing oneself in water, thanks to the network of tubes, walkways, open plazas with communal pools surrounded by seating areas. Aventi, Kalo, and the occasional Stellifera can be seen to name just a few, and bioluminescent lighting is one of the key features in areas where the biome would not find standard light effective or be seen as disruptive to the inhabitants. Divided into zones by type, each tailored to the general needs of of their inhabitants.
While decontamination is stringent, access to the full neighborhood is quite easily managed with the rental or purchase of the appropriate respiratory equipment. Depending on Sparks' tolerance for the water and the various conditions, quite the experience can be had, satisfying (or discovering) seafood cravings the likes of which are only limited by his credit balance, as well as the level of fatigue he might be willing to endure, as fully the night into morning can be lost in wondrous exploration and experience.
For someone like Dirk, numerous options are available depending on his whims, with a fair amount relying on his interpersonal skills. After all, talking someone into something is the same as talking yourself out of something, just the other way around! No doubt there are a couple of individuals that will recall their encounter with the holistic detective for some time to come— provided that they were not indulging at the time. For them, it may seem more like a dream that lingered instead of dissipating within seconds of wakefulness. Very few doors are explicitly closed to the eccentric Dirindi, though whether those doors would willingly reopen should he find himself on the other side might be a question better left unanswered until necessary.
For those seeking to escape even further, the CapsuleDive™ lounges present a modern marvel of luxury. Nestled in an alcove of quiet sophistication, the sleek, egg-like pods offer virtual adventures limited only by the imagination. Submerging into the sterile gel feels oddly comforting, a weightless sensation that erases physical fatigue as the mind is whisked away to tranquil beaches, bustling metropolises, or even the glittering expanse of a distant nebula. Every detail of the hotel whispers indulgence, from the impossibly soft linens to the delicate floral arrangements in the hallways, ensuring that no matter her chosen indulgence, the experience is defined by opulence and care. Here, even the night feels timeless, unhurried, and utterly serene..
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Inside, it felt like stepping onto a different planet entirely. The recreation was alive with detail: holographic ferns swayed softly in an unseen breeze, their oversized fronds brushing gently against passersby, while simulated moonlight streamed through a dense canopy above. A path wound past a cascading waterfall feeding into a clear pool, where holographic fish darted playfully among smooth stones. A musician strummed a Castrovellian string instrument near a small café, their haunting tune blending seamlessly with the faint hum of conversation from nearby tables. Vendors hawked skewers of exotic fruits, their sweet aroma mingling with the crisp scent of jungle greenery. The immersive environment was a triumph of technology and artistry, offering anyone who lingered a fleeting escape into the tranquil beauty of Castrovel’s untamed wilds.
This was one of several "green" areas, the method of utilizing flora to help clean the air a beneficial side note to bringing something tangible and authentic in a way that the simulations could not. A touch of home for those far away from it, and a step closer for those that had not yet reached it, for whatever reason. InfoDots™ hovered near points of interest for the curious, detailing information about the flora, sounds from the fauna, and the native region this space was designed to evoke, even a thrill of surprise as the sounds of a larger predator could be heard seemingly nearby. It was a touch of isolation and inclusion in a station that often tried very hard to be a little bit of everything to everyone.
Dirk Gently stands still silently listening to the voice inside his head, exploring the possibilities of his eccentric maneuvering about the Station this far.
He smiles.
His three blue eyes watch each of his companions depart for individual endeavors. Alone. In the bogada, bouncing further possible blunders, blown opportunities, bullets being boisterously blathering about, the Espionage Specialist looks forward to their next stage in the investigation.
As the Station's dawn begins, Dirk realizes that he has a craving for cheeseburgers. Tipping his hat to the woman still staring at him this entire time (he hasn't purchased anything just took up residence), smiles and proceeds to catch an early opening of a diner....
Sparks returns to the hotel around 3 AM. He is clearly a tired Brennari, but the placid expression on his face indicates he has had some good food and has experienced other things that are additional food for thought. He will explain it all in the morning, but first he sleeps until midmorning, although he keeps his comm unit set to give off a loud signal if he receives a return message from the Level 21 inquiry.
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I hope this message finds you in great or greater harmony than I found myself as I read your offer. As a Product Representative for Ilyrian Ecotech, I will not only showcase Castrovelian biotech innovation, I will herald the renewed brightness of Elven Destiny. I could not be more honored. I accept.
Please let me know how best to proceed as I embrace the Ilyrian Ecotech family; I am at your service.
May the melody you sing join the harmony of our people's choir.
By the light of The Green Star,
Zephyr Starr, Solarian
Attelan Star Academy
Zemfira indulges herself in the sumptuous sensory experiences of delicious food and luxurious bath before trying out the CapsuleDive™ system. She played out the fantasy of flying under her own power through the gorgeous nebula, finding a moment of complete and utter peace that resonated deep in her soul.
A full amount of sleep is able to be had by one and all. The amount of sleep a certain Detective may have been able to get might entirely depend on the the choices that were made from the menu of said diner, "The Corner Angel", and whether or not his casual charm may have enough to get the Maraquoi server attending the counter to brew up a pot of the "good stuff" for favored diners. The "sky" did brighten eventually, and for those with their atmospheric comfort filters set for their rooms also saw a gradual brightening that thankfully was not obnoxious or intrusive.
Zemfira discovered that it certainly was possible to sufficiently bury oneself in the covers, pillows, and blankets that the prospect of leaving said nest of rest was a harder decision that may or may not have resulted in surplus satisfied snoozing.
Perhaps somewhat courteously, the signal from Sparks' comm comes amidst mid-morning, shortly after he was awake and at least not jolted awake by the notice.
Subject: Congratulations on Your Appointment as Ambassador for Illyrian Ecotech
Dear Zephyr Star,
On behalf of Illyrian Ecotech, we are thrilled to welcome you as our newest Ambassador. This prestigious role reflects your exceptional talents, vision, and alignment with our commitment to a sustainable and interconnected future across the stars.
As part of your onboarding, we have issued you a personalized InfoTag—your unique identifier and gateway to the Illyrian Ecotech local cloud. This InfoTag will allow you to:
• Indicate your preferences and needs regarding formal attire, personal armor, and weaponry.
• Access exclusive Ambassador resources, tools, and privileges tailored to your role.
• Synchronize your profile to enhance your efficiency, mobility, and customization within our ecosystem.
Please use the secure link included with this message to submit your specifications. Our dedicated design teams are eager to collaborate with you to ensure your attire, equipment, and gear exemplify your personal style and the cutting-edge standards of Illyrian Ecotech.
Congratulations again, and welcome to the forefront of ecological innovation and diplomacy. Should you have any questions, please contact our Ambassadorial Support Team through your InfoTag interface or via direct comm.
Warm regards,
Illyrian Ecotech Ambassadorial Affairs
___________________________________
A certain holistic detective is seen (mostly heard actually, as his person is covered by foliage) snoring loudly in the hotel entrance foyer. There are a dozen empty cups lined up in a pattern depicting a smiley face on the floor....
There is also a once bitten cheese burger on the bench.
Sparks notifies the others that he has received a response to his message. He reads it and makes a copy and sends it to everyone.
The message is succinct.
Same place. This afternoon. Glad you enjoyed the party. ~21
Sparks encourages everyone interested in meeting the 21 crew to travel together and try to make a good impression. "Since the Level 21 crew seem to be good guys ... gals... whatever, we should be able to find out what they knew about the attack. That will be helpful information when we check out the other gang, which seems like it will be risky but key."
Eventually (once he realizes that no one is coming to this particular hotel) the holistic detective rises from his nap. Seeing a barely touched cheese burger just sitting there next to him, he decides that the hotel's foyer service is surprisingly superb. He eats it.
Checking his pager for any messages, Dirk panics when he realizes he is late! Furtively, frantically munching on his delicious (slightly used) cheese burger, Dirk Gently races back to the Bodega!
Zem is quite refreshed and sporting a positive outlook as they set out to follow up with the 21's.
"It was a lovely party. Your people are... not what I had expected. Thank you for making time to speak with us."
Sparks identifies himself and asks the names of the person or people at the meet. If asked, he will narrate the events in questions, the shootout at the docking bay and the communications with the Hardscrabble collective.
The introductions and greetings that you give are being given to an older Ysoki by the name of "Jabaxa". With brown fur marked by a weathered streak of grey from forehead to snout, he carries the air of someone who’s seen every trick in the book—and written a few himself.
Upon your arrival to the bodega, you were expected. The individual at the counter was the same from last night— maybe a double shift?– and they escorted all of you to the back of the store and through an unobtrusive door in the back of the kitchen to an office space that served its purpose as a room that you really had to know someone to get in. There, you are greeted with the sight of Jabaxa, and judging by the attention that they are giving you, two trusted members of the Level 21 Crew. All of them seem relaxed, but are still holding themselves with a brand of professionalism.
Sparks giving him the events as far as they had experienced, Jabaxa confirms that it was not them that started the shootout. "That part of this whole thing was something we did not know. None of us even knew who Kreel was, but given the turnover of the 'Kings, Nadaz isn't taking any failures lightly." There's a shake of his head, most likely at her methods, but shrugs.
"As long as any of you aren't coming for Hardscrabble or my crew, I've got no issue. I did get word that a suit from AE was seen down at the Fusion Queen to talk to Nadaz, probably trying to make sure that the Starfinders didn't interfere so they could get their hands on the Drift Rock without contest from anyone that might have a claim..." Pausing, he sighs. "I can see how cutting Kreel out keeps the Starfinders a few steps back if they were looking to mediate, but since he was there to see you lot, clearly that's had the opposite effect."
___________________________________
Arriving as he meant to, the Holistic Detective straightens his tie, tips his hat and greets Jabaxa with enthusiasm.
So, the Level 21 crew were paid to start a fight with Kings, who probably did have orders to take out Kreel. All on behalf of AE, whom are directly competing with HS. Looks like we either shake down the Kings, or go directly to AE.
The Espionage Specialist seems to be absently chewing on something.
I still wouldn't object to us directly attempting to infiltrate the cargo ship.
Arriving as he meant to, the Holistic Detective straightens his tie, tips his hat and greets Jabaxa with enthusiasm.
So, the Level 21 crew were paid to start a fight with Kings, who probably did have orders to take out Kreel. All on behalf of AE, whom are directly competing with HS. Looks like we either shake down the Kings, or go directly to AE.The Espionage Specialist seems to be absently chewing on something.
I still wouldn't object to us directly attempting to infiltrate the cargo ship.
"No one can say that you aren't good at this stuff Dirk, wow, that was really a heck of an internship you had in the Espionge Specialist Corp! I think you're correct, why shake down the Kings, does it matter now that we're staring down the barrel of the cargo ship? Let's go take a look."
Zemfira dutifully takes notes on her com device. "Turnover, you say? Has this Nadaz only recently taken the King's top spot? What happened to their last leader? What group does AE designate?"
To her fellows, she arches a multicolored eyebrow, "You mean the Acreon? The "gone silent, strictly quarantined, cargo ship. That is definitely not in the purview of our inquiry..." She objects.
"If this AE group did order the execution of Duravor, we need to find evidence of that. That means investigating these so-called Kings. From what I can tell, no one is getting inside that quarantined ship."
The seated Ysoki gave a slight tilt of his head and a thoughtful shift to his ears. "Nadaz runs the Downsiders from the Fusion Queen some levels down. It's a nightclub, but it can be a rough place. If she's keeping anything like that, it would be safest there. The turnover of the Downsiders' picked up after she took over. They say that they could only learn that the pile of mush was the previous guy by genetype ID. Whatever happened, it was ugly and got uglier with her at the top. "
"Truth be told, I actually think we need some ugly. Introduce this Nadaz to some gravitons."
Dirk's Three Blue eyes widen in excitement!
We be clubbing!
"Thank you for this information," Sparks says politely. "Looks like were headed to the Fusion Queen, court of the Downside Kings. We'll be going armed for bear, for sure."
"Yes, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. Any advice on how to approach the Fusion Queen?"
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Dirk Gently is seen wearing full combat gear. The Dirindi looks at everyone.
Too much?
The Espionage Specialist hums.
I am doubtful that our reception will be as cordial as here. I suppose we could just enter as tourists but probably not allowed arms.
He absently is flapping his...arms.
Dirk Gently is seen wearing full combat gear. The Dirindi looks at everyone.
Too much?The Espionage Specialist hums.
I am doubtful that our reception will be as cordial as here. I suppose we could just enter as tourists but probably not allowed arms.He absently is flapping his...arms.
"Gods, you are so good! I knew I should have taken that DEI course at the academy! Like, if an Embri has a weapon, can it still be referred to as "Armed" and dangerous? You really are brilliant Dirk. Wow."
Jabaxa inclines his head, acknowledging the thanks, and gives all of you a critical eye and a knowing look. "Considering your performance at the Docking Bay, it'll likely be hard for you to be 'unarmed' for long, if things get ugly..." Pausing, he does concede the necessity. "If you need something else small, I could see something like that finding its way into your hands."
A cursory search on the InfoSphere will turn up not only the site of the Hub for the Fusion Queen, reasonably slicked up with an eye for the more gaudy, the neon purple and green evocative and lurid. From there, numerous associated links lead to Pulses (former live streams) of the lines, some shots from the inside of the club, and various captures of featured performers. While the rules listed on its Hub mention no weapons, the degree to which this is enforced is understated in writing. Some of those feeds imply a rather extreme level of enforcement to those who violate that rule. No footage seems to exist of said "enforcement", however.
__________________________________
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The Solarian smiles.
Aren't we by default armed all the time? Philosophy is so fun!
"Technically, a mystic or technomancher with the appropriate spells is just as armed and dangerous as somebody with a small or long arm. I'd still feel better having backup arms but maybe we first scout the place with just our solarian 'weapons.' I'd recommend we enter separately rather than as a group and to wear things that obscure our features relative to what we looked like at the docking bay incident."
Zemfira considers, "Should we upgrade? We haven't spent any of our discretionary funds yet... Maybe it's time to check in with Director Chiskisk as well."
Dirk Gently nods at both Sparks and Zemfira. The holistic detective steps in both directions at once, resulting in an extremely precarious position for our Espionage Specialist.....
"I might like to get an armor upgrade to help conceal a weapon or two. I believe they cost around 175 credits. Is that in our budget?"
"If you need something else small, I could see something like that finding its way into your hands."
Dirk Gently looks up (a slightly pained expression currently resides on his face from his precarious position) at Jabaxa as she offered possible inside armement options.
Can you have our particular small arms hidden inside the club for our availability of access?
The Holistic Detective looks hopeful.
My preference over leaving them in the Uber.
Zephyr chuckles at his friend's concern, "All that time at the Academy and we can't face a fight without a gun!? For shame ... well at least we graduated."
The elf smiles wistfully
"Gravitons are enough for me. Plus, there's no need to assume there will be violence, right?"
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Sparks reviews his wallet app and decides he cannot afford anything new.
So he leaves his weapons in his room (except his mote, which he extinguishes from view). He picks up some inexpensive sun glasses and a floppy hat, and some casual clothes different from what he was wearing at the dock shootout.
Before the group tries to enter the Fusion Queen, he suggests an information gathering trip to bars and restaurants near the club to gather information on the gang.
Then he is ready to try to enter the club.
He suggests the team split up but remain close to each other as they approach the club, keeping in sight of each other, but not moving as a group. He'll volunteer to be the first to enter.
If he gets any trouble from the bouncer screening those wanting to enter the club (assuming there is one), he'll offer 20 cr tip. Once inside, he'll spend another 20 cr hoping to get some idea if the Downside Kings are present.
Zemfira makes sure to send a message to the Director before heading into danger.
Circumstantial evidence suggests Downside Kings may have been employed to assassinate Kreel. Possibly due to his involvement with the dispute over the Acreon's cargo. Next steps to investigate the Kings and leader Nadaz directly. Input welcomed.
For his part, Zeph was glad to have a little downtime before they went out: he needed to log in to Illyrian Ecotech Ambassadorial Affairs, activate his InfoTag, and give them some information.
There was a lot of information that he would build into his profile over the 90 minutes or so that he was logged in, but colors first. He described his penchant for dark gray, accented with silver and bright Rigel Blue. He let them know his fondness for biotech, and biotech enhancements, his goal being the sacred trinity of hybrid tech: living skipshot pistols.
While he was happy enough with the basic Tactical SSPs that he had, what he wanted were color coordinated Advanced versions which we genetically keyed to him alone. No fear for being disarmed, 10K in gear that was worthless to anyone else. That was a good beginning anyway.
and if they ended up customizing some Lashunta Mind Mail for him, more's the better ...
With all that done, he calls the front desk to get an express press on his formal wear, and asked if he could please come pick up some cash as well.
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Dirk Gently stands. He bows formally to Zephyr.
Well said, my good Solarian. Yes. Quite right, then. Shall we return ourselves to our prestigious abode and prepare properly for our performance tonight.
The quirky (it's been officially documented) Espionage Specialist doffs his hat at their patron before traveling back to the plush cushion couches, divans, foyers.
He does stop by a little burger place on the way to drive-thru a 6-pak....
The response comes from Chiskisk to Zemfira a short amount of time after.
>>If it is related to the Acreon, there are higher stakes than guessed. Be careful. Evidence = Leverage.<<
________________________________
Dirk Gently is seen standing outside the Club.....
He seems to be eating a cheeseburger.
Zemfira communicates Director Chiskisk's message to the others and follows Sparks lead.
Having the distinct feeling of being stood-up, the lonely Holistic Detective straightens his tie, endeavors to finish his cheeseburger at the same time as asking a passersby the time (which only elicits an universal sign of...well ...polite company usually equates the symbol as a bird...), chokes and spits out a bit of barely used burger (hence the bird) in the general direction of said passersby, and waves.
Feeling really good about this next part, Dirk enters the club....
....and bumps into the bouncer blocking the entrance beyond the magic rope. Being blinded by the boisterous bounty of bright flashes from the myriad of multicolored lights, the Three Blue eyes of the Dirindi blinks uselessly at the seemingly agitated bouncer.
Errr...hello. one please.
After much interpersonal invasive procedures performed by said agitated bouncer, the much now in need of a smoke Detective casually walks into the club.
An hour later, he is found passed out under a billiards table. He has various empty beverage containers amongst his prone person and a slightly used cheeseburger.
Zephyr's request is promptly handled, with no more than fifteen minutes passing before the notice came that his attire was prepared, as well as a disbursement from his account in a smattering of credit chips suitable for a night out without being ostentatious.
Whether transit is handled singly or in a group, your arrival at the Fusion Queen in the lower levels of Absalom Station is entirely without incident, though with the increase of uncertainty from the locale, it is a wonder if the night will conclude in the same way it started.
The Fusion Queen dominates its stretch of Absalom Station’s lower levels, a garish jewel set in the heart of Downside Kings territory. The club’s exterior is a clash of neon excess and station-worn grime, its towering holo-signs flashing an endless loop of stylized flames, writhing silhouettes, and sharp-edged logos. The walls, once the dull steel of standard station construction, are now overlaid with layers of graffiti—some artistic, some little more than crude tags, all battling for space with flickering projection ads. The street outside pulses with life, a chaotic blend of hopeful partygoers, station drifters, and the ever-present shadow of gang enforcers. The scent of scorched power cables, cheap vendor food, and the faint, unmistakable tang of ozone lingers in the air, mixing with the low thrum of music bleeding from within.
The entrance to the Fusion Queen is a study in controlled menace. Lurid neon tubes cast an electric haze over the club’s front walk, painting the waiting line in shifting shades of red, violet, and acid green. The doorway itself is framed by a stylized arch of illuminated plating, its surface engraved with flame motifs that pulse like embers. A pair of the Kings' bouncers, clad in synthleather and chrome, stand like statues at the entrance, their cybernetic enhancements glinting under the neon glow. Their gazes sweep the crowd with practiced disinterest, searching for threats, troublemakers, or easy marks. Beyond them, the doors slide open and shut with a hiss, releasing momentary bursts of heavy bass and laughter before sealing away whatever transpires within. Around the edges of the scene, Kings-affiliated lookouts linger in the alleys and side passages, keeping a silent watch over their territory. Whether one comes here to revel, to scheme, or to disappear, one thing is clear—the Fusion Queen is more than just a nightclub. It’s a statement, a lure, and a warning all at once.
There are a couple of incidents that occur as you are waiting in line to enter. (Sparks•SenseMotive) The bouncers at the front are not inclined to debate, seeming more tense than might be expected, certainly unfriendly to unknown approaches, and swift to mete out a physical response that serves as deterrent and denial of entry, all in one.
___________________________________
Zephyr summons all of the elven arrogance that he can muster to ensure that the bouncers know that he's "someone" ...
But beneath the revelry, the club hums with tension— this is Downside Kings territory, and their mark is everywhere. Their enforcers prowl the floor, half mingling, half watching, their chrome accents and gang insignia catching the light as they move through the crowd. A back hall, guarded by another set of heavy-hitters, leads to the true heart of the Fusion Queen— the Kings’ inner sanctum, where deals are made, debts are collected, and those who cross the gang disappear into the station’s underbelly. The patrons, whether oblivious or indifferent, keep dancing, drinking, and losing themselves in the moment, but the undercurrent is clear: the Fusion Queen is more than a club. It’s a kingdom of vice and power, and the Kings rule it absolutely.
The night passes in fits and starts, depending on how you chose to blend in with the crowd and enjoy your time in the club, however much you choose to spend. Despite your reasons for being here, if you give it a chance, the music is not bad— provided it is to your taste– and the drinks are decent if you shell out enough for the top shelf. The main area of the club includes a coat check by the entrance that is staffed by a nonplussed employee or two, taking coats and giving a chit with a digital tag for those that have items to check. The bar seems relatively straightforward also, and the only place that anything else could be was the back room. You were able to make out enough of it to see that storage and another door, perhaps an office, if you were to guess. A table set up in the back room looked like it might have been hosting some extra members, but nothing large.
Conversations with those affiliated, or associated with the affiliated was enough to confirm that things are on the downturn, at least if you were closer to the top and loyal to the prior boss. As for names, you did get something about someone named "HatchBuster", or "Buster", spoken of in wary tones of awe or fear, but otherwise the gang seemed to be more scattered than concentrated around the club. Given their alleged activities, it would make a sort of sense.
For those of you capable of leaving under your own power, your departure is not impeded, and you may have to decline offers of continuing your conversations elsewhere, to varying degrees of insistence. For Dirk, his departure is assisted, though at least they had the decency to wake him up before his pockets were emptied, but after they had removed him from the premises.
What may be left of the night is yours to rest and review as you choose. Tomorrow, checkout time comes before noon.
In the morning, Zeph wakes early to have one more order of his favorite Castrovellian delicacies; then gets onto a terminal. He makes a 7 day reservation for 4 small suites at the Moons of Sleep, informs his employer of his new address, and then messages his colleagues.
”Friends, a small gift: I have booked lodging for us, for the next 7 days. As much as I hate to leave the lap of luxury, the suites at the Moons of Sleep where Chichiks referred us are quite adequate, and not expensive for Starfinders. Preferable I would think to simply squatting at the deceased’s apartment. The reservations are ready for us whenever you are prepared to check out. From there, we can plan our next foray to the Fusion Queen. See you soon, ZEPH”
The disturbing sounds of snoring erupt from under the antique coffee table in the lobby of the lap of luxury. Jolting upright at if goosed, Dirk Gently peers suspiciously about for any giggling poultry. Absently grabbing the barely munched on cheeseburger just haphazardly sitting on the antique coffee table, the Holistic Detective takes a bite while visually visiting the view of his person in the reflective glass of the doors.
Seeing a confused Three Blue eyes of a Dirindi sitting eating a cheeseburger in his underwear, Dirk sadly shakes his head in disgust. Noticing the underdressed Dirindi seemingly agreeing with him, the Espionage Specialist mumbles
Is there no decency left?
Suddenly a beep beeps from his Com unit, distracting the distressed Dirindi from his current development. Listening to Zephyr's messages, Dirk jumps up and proceeds to March through the crowded lobby to the front desk and announces
Check out for Dirk Gently. And there's an inexcusable gentleman in the lobby wearing only his underwear.
In between returning to the hotel and making arrangements for a new place to stay, Sparks suggests a plan of action for dealing with the Downside Kings at the Fusion Queen. "It did not seem that the club had a high level of muscle. I think we could handle them if they don't want to give up information the easy way. It is likely the answers we seek can be found by barging into that storeroom and that other room. Does everyone think we can handle a fight with just our solarian weaponry?"
Sparks is okay with the accommodation's Zephyr found.
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Zem sends happy, thankful emojis in reply to Zephyr's message and makes sure her bags are packed and ready for checkout before they head to the Fusion Queen.
"Seems like the Kings pass leadership according to whomever took down the last boss. If we could catch wind of someone looking to move up the ladder, someone unhappy with Nadaz recent moves, we might be able to support their play and turn the ends against the middle. That would make for less against us and possibly put the new leadership in our debt." She suggests, "Though that is probably easier said than done."
Inside, the club pulses with the rhythmic beat and her feet seem to move of their own accord as she folds into the dancing throng of patrons effortlessly. Music was her true native language and she swayed and snapped, thumped and thrashed with enthusiasm along with the crowd.
When she finally took a break to catch her breath she kept her drinks on the more hydrating spectrum and drained them quickly without setting them down. But she did make an effort to admire some of the more artistic tags of the Kings around the place.
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As far as it could be considered, a night out at a club that resulted in a morning checkout with a sleep deficit and the smells of the club and the night on the pair of clothes that had been worn when one woke up could be considered a fairly decent send-off. Of course, that assumed that one could find their clothes to have them laundered to pack. The laundry and packing services offered by the hotel alleviated both of those concerns, provided the item in question was misplaced in the assigned room. No assurances were made regarding "alternate locations" or "a change of ownership". Nonetheless, at the desired time, your belongings are prepared to your liking, neatly arranged for you to collect with ease, a parting breakfast offered, and the mundane ritual of checkout made fancy marked the fond farewell of Attelan Star Academy to its brightest stars.
It could be understandable if the morning felt different, the polished REBU Blackpool transit smoothly navigating the traffic lanes of Absalom station in midmorning to your accommodations of the next week, a simple two-bed suite for each of you at a small hotel near the Lorespire Complex known as the "Moons of Sleep". Your information included your keys, conveniently incorporated into your comm units, and easily granted you access to rooms that could be described as "efficient", "minimal", and "essential", The amenities are by no means as expansive as what you just left, and could be considered quite spartan by comparison; Solid color sheets, neutral walls, and decor that seemed two steps away from "warm classroom chic". Referral links to local eateries are offered, since there is no food serving on premises, unless one counted the vending machines that were just enough to provide an adequate meal, if standards were not set too high. There were some rotating specials highlighted for the day, though.
The area feels remarkably like an upscale university district, Starfinder-style. Eateries, coffeehouses, and tech cafés catering to researchers, field agents, and visiting scholars line every corner. Holoscreens flicker in shop windows, cycling between announcements of upcoming lectures at the Complex, promotions for adventuring gear or star charts, and bulletins about recent expeditions into the Vast. Young initiates and seasoned veterans alike gather at outdoor seating areas, poring over datapads and star maps, exchanging mission stories and theories in equal measure. The air carries faint notes of exotic cuisine—spiced tea from Castrovel, roasted grains imported from Akiton—mixed with the gentle hum of distant engines and muffled chatter of shop patrons.
Moons of Sleep itself sits comfortably at the heart of this scholarly haven, offering guests a restful retreat within walking distance of the Starfinders' hub. Its exterior reflects the district's modern-yet-inviting aesthetic, featuring smooth walls of pearl-white alloy trimmed with glowing cerulean accents, and wide windows that softly radiate warmth onto the street outside. A holographic sign overhead cycles through phases of moons from multiple worlds—Castrovelian crescent, Brethedan sphere, even an Aucturnian eclipse—symbolizing restful cycles and universal welcome. Quiet pathways radiate outward, connecting visitors directly to transport hubs, small marketplaces, and green spaces, reinforcing an atmosphere of serene productivity perfectly tailored to travelers seeking inspiration or a quiet place to reflect between adventures.