Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Hi all!
I know I've been rather quiet lately, which is in relation with what's been happening with me for the last week or so. Life's been generally bad, and I'm currently getting some major flak, related to Britain's current state of affairs (as a foreigner there), and I'll have to take at least a week or two to get my head around things.
I fully plan to continue the game, and I'm sorry I only now let you know, but up to today, I thought I'd be able to get things done, which is no longer the case.
Sorry about all that, and hopefully, see you soon!
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Jean takes his time floating from one social circle to another, enjoying the night-clubs, and generally making himself known.
During the day, he oversees the re-fitting of the new ship, making small talk with the engineers and techinicians, and asking all sorts of questions.
The night before the faithful day, he appears, shirt unbuttoned, in the training chambers.
"My friends!", he says, tipsiness apparent in his voice. "It is time that we picked a name for our new... ship.", he stifles a hiccup, sitting down on a chair and grabbing himself a coffee. "Have you any suggestions?", he asks, reclining back. "I've been thinking... Maybe Apollo? We'll bring the light of humanity to the other civilisations? Or Orpheus, to the man that crossed the river of Styx and returned from it?", he proposes, clearly excited for being present for the christening of another ship.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Aster's idea is the same as mine, so go, you!
If possible, we'd need to get extreme environment suits. We already have good production and manufacture capabilities, so in a pitch, we could salvage to produce something we need.
Aster, cover our known senses with some olfactory communication capabilities, too? Maybe get a chemical nanofac (or something similar), so we can analyse what they're saying if they communicate using smells/pheromones (which is somewhat unlikely, due to its limited range for advanced societies.)
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
"Grand!", replies Jean. "I might require assistance... Hm. I'd need some light reading on the matter of diplomatie, I suppose!" He smiles. "I would need to re-position the AI core from our ship to the new one. Then we'd need to name it, of course." He sighs. "I'll miss the Turing...", he remarks.
I'm ready to go deep into space, and get on track with the new adventure!
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Jean is hard pressed to hold his excitement, as he leaps in the air. "A-ha! I knew it!", he almost giggles, as he stands up and starts pacing in the office. "Have you any idea of what they are? I'll need books and reports on theoretical psychology! Ha! Aliens!", he practically giggles, as he sets down, sipping from his coffee. "And what about their technology! The opportunity to explore a possible differing path in its development! It's a scientist's dream come true, no, it's everyone's dream come true!"
He raises an eyebrow. "Are we to go there with no goverment supervision?", he crosses his arms.
Empathy to get a feel of the scientist's thoughts on the matter:15 - 3d6 ⇒ 15 - (1, 1, 2) = 11
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Jean looks around the palace. He takes in the sights with almost child-like enthusiasm, as he looks left and right, making casual conversation as he goes. All this grandeur...
Once inside, he accepts a cup of coffee, and takes a long sniff at it. "Madame President, I have to say what an honour is for a kid from Olympus Mons' lowest reaches to be in this cabinet as an invited guest.", he sends a charming smile at one of the most powerful people in the system. He stops himself from raising an eyebrow at the offer. "Madame President, it honours us deeply to be considered competent enough for such a mission! If my comrades are willing, I certainly am interested enough!"And it would get me away from, you know. People after me. He takes a long sip, swallowing his political views alongside the aromatic coffee. "I do hope that the project might have the funding necessary. The Turing is a proud vessel, but her age is showing. We may also need additional personnel, no?", he looks around.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Jean disembarks from the Turing, dressed in a sharp, yet casually unbuttoned shirt, as he waves at the crowds. His charming smile washes over the crowds, as he seems to enjoy the event immensely. Shaking a hand with the Secretary, he poses for the camera, and points towards the members of the crew, ushering the crowds to cheer even more. As the time comes for a speech, Jean's face turns a bit more serious, as he takes a step forward.
"Thank you! Thank you.", he says, waiting for the crowds to quiet down. "We, the crew of the Turing, thank you for this... opportunité." He takes a sip from a glass of water. "I do not believe that we are heroes. I believe that we did what every man and woman can, and will do, when facing tyranny and despotic actions. That they will organise, they will fight." He pauses. "The real heroes were the people who let others board their ships. Those who stayed behind, and sacrificed their vessels in the line of fire. The real heroes of Styx were the people of Styx, everyone that stood up and fought against a force thought unreckonable with." He pauses. "I saw the finest examples of humanity and compassion. And, the thing that moved me the most is feeling the seething rage of those who dared to attack with no warning, those who seeked to abuse their power, those who felt to make a statement... and were denied by the love for freedom." He clears his throat. "And I ask of Terra, if any refugees from Styx appear, to accept them with open arms. Thank you."
Public Speaking:15 - 3d6 ⇒ 15 - (3, 5, 5) = 2Could've been better.
Jean would be interested in talking to someone from the government or an exploration company, and essentially, try and use the Turing's reputation to score some sweet upgrades, in some sort of marketing ploy. :)
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
"Oh, it depends, mon ami", replies Jean to Aster, affixing the neck-tie of choice onto Gilligan. "I'd suggest either carrying it out on his hip in a swaggery notion, or don't bring it at all! It's not like a single pistol can safe us if we get attacked on the starport, could it?", he chuckles.
Jean leaves the AI Core, one less neck accessory in his hands, as he walks into Dr. Rix. "Oh!", he exclaims, seeing the doctor's dressing. "Tres charmant, madame docteur!", he exclaims, as a wide smile spreads on his face, as he shrugs. "I have to say, it's somewhat relaxing to know that you're already set on a course, no?", he asks nobody in particular. "So all we can do now is enjoy the situation. Besides, we'll get to breathe actual, real air soon, and be able to walk more than 3 meters in a single direction!"
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Jean chuckles, flicking the comms back on. ++Copy, Hangtian. Oui, madamoiselle. Thank you for the welcome!++, he replies in a suave voice. ++Requesting proper protocol instructions - is it the black tie sort of preparation, or more of a business casual? Preparing for orbital rotation, over.++ Looking in the cockpit, Jean shrugs. "Well, so much for them not expecting us. I suggest we prepare ourselves for a formal ceremony.", he suggests, finishing his cup of coffee and transmitting comms to his ear-bud.
A few minutes later, an almost completely dressed and ironed Jean appears out of his room, and enters APRIL's core. He stands next to Gilligan, and looks at the camera. "What do you think, APRIL?", he asks, staring at the robot with an appraising, deep look. "You think Gilligan is more of a bow-tie or more of a tie sort of robot?", he asks, raising his hands, containing a set of neck-assortments.
Jean's assuming that the news will start spreading, and most everything will be broadcast, live or not. That's what the Savoir-Faire roll is for, to basically present us as Likeable Big Space Heroes™. Savoir-Faire (Space Hero):15 - 3d6 ⇒ 15 - (4, 6, 1) = 4
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
"Très bien!", exclaims Jean, as he leans onto the console. ++Hangtian, this is the Turing, arriving from Styx, Luna. Sending IFF data and requesting permission to dock. Turing out.++, he says with a calm voice, jumping on ship comms. ++Well, let's see how they respond, no?++, he chuckles, lighting up a cigarette.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
The thing I posted takes time during the break, so Jean has time for comms tomfoolery (commfoolery?). There'll also be an Savoir-Faire roll for when it is time to address the crowds below. And possibly a Public Speaking one, for writing an inspiring speech. And they told me, those skills are useless, you'll never need them. Who's laughing now!
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Jean cheerfully waltzes into the cockpit, waving at the doctor. "Bonsoir, Rix!", he chirps, sitting behind the VR screen. In a second, he frowns, as the screen displays that they're clearly approaching Ceres once more, and after a not-so-gentle slap, the screen goes back to behaving himself.
He scratches his well-groomed stubble, then cheerfully looks at a camera. "APRIL, mon cher, can you connect me to the shipboard comms?", he asks, clearly in a good mood, as he picks up his coffee cup and lights a cigarette.
++Mesdames, messieurs, uplifted animals and intelligences of persuasion artificielle, we'll be arriving on Terra soon.++", he says, with the voice of a showman. ++I believe I, your esteemed Comms Officer, have enough time to attempt a certain tomfoolery of our electronics signature, so that we're able to land under the shroud of secrecy. Alternatively, I can prepare a speech for us, the Heroes of Luna, so that the parade is ready for our arrival.++ He lets out a ring of smoke, then blows another ring into it, turning around in the chair, which screeches unpleasantly. I should've oiled that. Merde!++Pardon.++ He grins. ++I now call to you, fellow selflessly heroic individuals, to decide. My humble call is for us to cast off the veil of shadows, but our ship is a glorious democracy! One Jean-Christophe Garneau, signing off.++, he closes the comms, spinning on the chair once more, and popping up the console, the onboard music changing to a quiet, yet dramatic Martian music.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Jean chuckles, clearly enthusiastic after showing Aster around. Bah. That was the shoddiest combat protocol I've seen, and I've seen things.
"Or, if I know how dignitaries work, we can ask some of their aides to help in that situation, no?", he proposes, pouring himself a coffee. "I never say no to new clothes, especially if someone gives me the money to buy it." He sits down, lighting up a cigarette and connecting to the news station. "I suggest we head to Terra now. We spend any more time on Mars, you'd want to stay forever.", he jests. Except, not really., he adds to himself, taking a long sip from the coffee, as blue-gray smoke rises from his hand.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
"Oh. The best place in the galaxy, of course!", exclaims Jean. "There's more to see here than you can in a human life. Just avoid the lower levels, and you should be fine, mon ami.", he grins. "Hm. I think I've scratched your taste for Martian cuisine. If you're feeling adventurous, I can propose a robot deathmatch?", he suggests. "I'm afraid I'm banned from betting on those, and I'd rather not draw attention while we're here, but it could be interesting to watch. There's even the occasional Earth champion coming here to get his rear parts kicked.", he smiles, basking in the artificial red glow of the Red Planet.
He looks over at APRIL. "Uh. I'm afraid I spoke too soon, my friend of the artificial persuasion.", he sent a cheerful smile towards a nearby camera. "I'd prefer unarmed presence, if possible. I'd hate to drag attention to you!", he apologises with a shrug. "Maybe we can simply go and see the Technomancer's palace, if you're feeling like learning more about Martian history. I'll be your guide.", he proposes.
I don't think we could purchase something here, besides, if there's a reward, we'd better go and snatch it while we can!
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Raising a suspicious eyebrow, Jean smiles at Aster. "I've knew it!", he chuckles, leaning in conspiratively. "Truth be told, my job's surprisingly simple, too, I just reverse every polarity I see. Child's play.", he laughs, taking away his gaze away from the console.
He picks up his coffee mug, then takes a long sip. "Uh, JC... Could I possibly ask of you all to refrain from using my full name on Mars? Some... previous altercations with some men on the other side of the law.", he shares. "JC will be fine, I imagine. And I should try and stay away from all the cameras." Swiping his fingers on the console, he snorts, and starts pulling out a list of all the systems he deems outdated and in dire need of replacement.
"Dr. Rix, if you don't mind the question?", Jean asks after a short while, watching as navigational charts are drawn. "Where does a medical professional learn celestial navigation? With such proficiency, too.", he continues, staring into the calculations with an appraising look.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Jean listens with great interest to the doctor's story. "Hah! I admit, psionics were always a bit of a mistery to me. I've yet to have someone explain them to me properly!", he laughs, before pouring himself another glass of wine.
--------------------------------------------
As the pre-flight checks are made, Jean walks into the cockpit, logging himself to a console without saying anything. Poking around for a bit, he raises his head towards APRIL's camera. "APRIL, do you have track of any of the ship leaving through the gate? Figure we might go undercover as one of them, until we figure out it's safe to... announce our arrival.", he asks, before digging into the console once more. "If you have the memory, give me a hand, s'il vous plaît.", he asks, continuing to dig.
Electronics Operation (comms):16 - 3d6 ⇒ 16 - (4, 1, 1) = 10add 3, if single-minded can work here. tracking down a signature from one of the ships, could be really hard to get a decent one. Electronics Operation (comms):16 - 3d6 ⇒ 16 - (3, 3, 6) = 4To implement a signature from one of the ships. Hopefully good enough to fool people until he can talk to the people on the port.
Once having a signature, if a trace of one, he stands up, and then returns a couple of minutes later, carrying an immense cup of coffee, then sits down without saying a word, eyes digged into the console, as he types, shifts files around, and breaks into a poorly whistled version of the Martian hymn.
Once on Mars, he'll attempt to speak to a government official informally, and try and get into their good graces so that they can assist with the search for the truth. Then on, I'd suggest we take the doctor's offer of exploring, since I don't really feel like being a celebrity either. And also aliens.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Jean, long ago finished with his food, leans back on the chair. "Oh! Madame Docteur! I've had that when I was on Earth. Maybe you'll cook the next time we leave a station, no?", Jean suggests enthusiastically.
As the topic goes back to the plan, Jean nods. "Especially now, with the Gauntlet being captured by Mars, I would imagine Earth playing safer.", he takes a sip from his wine, clearly enjoying the moment. "Though, I do have some... eh... people who don't like me... harboring ill intentions..." He shakes his head, the word escaping him. "Bah! I can worry about them later. As for poster people, monsieur Diagef, considering our situation a week before, that's by far not the worst that can happen to someone." The alcohol seems to have affected Jean to be a lot more wordier than usual.
"If they do attempt such a thing, I believe I could reason with them. Besides, I think that the news of that will be buried the next time the government wants to distract the people with something. A famous performer visiting, or something of the sort." He sighs wistfully. "So, set a course for Mars, then, APRIL? And... Do you have a use for all those hats?", Jean asks, raising a hat at where the AI's camera is.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
I think the missile launcher was a bit of a stretch, but, hey! You never know. I suppose I should've asked whether or not the psi-tech was a thing, first.
The computer monitoring equipment is a decent buy, even despite it only working on lower TL technologies.
I suggest we go to Mars, find out more about the reward suggested (maybe with a lawyer?), looking for work in the meanwhile. Any objections?
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Nodding, deep in thought, Jean points towards the items he'd found. "We'll take them. All of them.", he relays to the owner with a smile, then gives another long glance at the battlesuit. "It's basically a classic. Would be rude of me to refuse, monsieur", he replies when proposed the battlesuit again, as he taps his wrist computer for data link, and presses the button for it to open.
I'll buy all of those! I gained 3,500 from the betting, spent 5,620 on the gear and food, and I'll say 180 for the night with the Ceres girl and general shindiggery, so I'm left with 14,200. I think I'll pass on talking with the Admiral, since I feel we have a whole universe to explore!
Streetwise, learning more:13 - 3d6 ⇒ 13 - (5, 4, 5) = -1 Battlesuit, putting it through its paces:12 - 3d6 ⇒ 12 - (1, 1, 2) = 8
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Ha! I did post something I didn't read, straight out of the book. Shame on me!
I might've let my curiousity take the better of me, so I'll wait on the GM's judgement on that. And I am all for setting sail into the great black yonder ASAP as well, so we can possibly skip over the celebratory dinner, and just go, unless the GM has something planned about leaving.
So, would Earth or Mars be closer by? What sort of ports would be around us?
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Jean taps his comms, as the message spins again. "Merde, I've got it!", he sighs in exasperation, as he opens a channel to the good doctor in his ear. "Doubt we can get a reliable Earth source in here... I think we should thread carefully regardless. But, we can check what actually happened on Mars is true." He takes another look at the various stalls and merchants inside the station. "We could ask someone at the docks after we're finished shopping, no? And then we feast!", he suggests, as he continues towards the next stall. "Or we could ask the Admiral?", he says out loud, then looks at Aster. "Though I'm not sure you're the man he wants to see right now!", he chuckles through a sympathetic smile.
Should I use Streetwise or Diplomacy to find out if there's someone who sends information to the pirates from Mars/Earth? Essentially, looking for a second, independent news source.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
The captain rations, yes. Good food and celebration must go hand in hand!
5 Interesting Things, with spoilers from the Ultra-Tech book.
Smuggling container/trunk:
Perfect for the professional courier or smuggler, these
items use the latest in electronic countermeasures and
stealth materials to spoof scanners and sniffers. A hidden
liner compartment provides safety for small packages,
while a biometric lock (p. 104) provides security. The liner
compartment holds one-tenth the luggage’s capacity and
provides a +2 (quality) bonus to Smuggling skill. It is sealed
to defeat chemical sniffers and dogs.
Attaché Case (TL9): Holds up to 20 lbs. (or two cubic
feet). $400, 2 lbs. LC3.
Travel Bag (TL9): Holds 100 lbs. (or five cubic feet).
$1,200, 10 lbs. LC3.
Trunk (TL9): Holds 400 lbs. $4,000, 40 lbs. LC3.
Shipping Container (TL9): Holds 10,000 lbs. Up to four
people can hide in the liner compartment, but they’ll need
breathing gear. $10,000, 1,000 lbs. LC3.
These items may have a programmable camouflage
(p. 99) surface at an extra 50% to cost. Distortion chips or
fields (p. 99) can also be added.
Computer Monitoring Gear:
Computer equipment emits radio signals when in use.
This gadget picks these up. It can detect whatever data is
being typed or displayed on an interface screen at a distance,
allowing someone to eavesdrop on computer activity.
It cannot read what is stored inside the computer. It can
scan through walls, provided they are not shielded.
Using the device requires an Aim maneuver for the
duration of the surveillance; roll against Electronics
Operation (Surveillance) to get clear data. Optionally, all
TL9+ interfaces may be automatically shielded against
these emissions (due to different design principles).
However, the system remains useful when infiltrating
lower-TL worlds!
Mini Scanner (TL9): 100-yard range; -1 to skill per 10
yards range. $500, 0.1 lb., A/10 hr. LC2.
Long-Range Scanner (TL9): 1,000-yard range; -1 to skill
per 100 yards of range. $5,000, 5 lbs., C/10 hr. LC2.
Psionic Mind Shield:
This psychotronic device generates a telepathic mind
shield that warns the user of mental attacks and defends
against them. Add the shield’s TL-6 to IQ or Will whenever
the user resists an advantage with the Telepathic limitation.
The shield also resists attempts to locate the user’s mind
using psionic abilities. Such abilities must win a Quick
Contest against the wearer’s Will + the shield’s (TL-6) to
find him.
At the GM’s option, an artificial mind shield may protect
against spells listed under Communication and Empathy
Spells (p. B245) or Mind Control Spells (p. B250).
Mind Shield Helmet (TL9^): The shield circuits warn the
wearer when a telepath fails to penetrate the shields, but
provide no warning if the telepath succeeded. The warning
can take the form of a beeper, a silent signal, or a message
in the user’s HUD. Lightweight caps (DR 1, cover only the
skull) are $1,000, 1 lb., 2B/100 hr. LC3.
Mind Shield Circuitry (TL9^): This can be built into any
type of helmet: $1,000, 0.5 lbs., 2B/100 hr. LC3.
Telepathic Barrier (TL9^): This psionic stealth coating
can be used to shield vehicle crews, building occupants, or
even entire cities from telepathic detection and manipulation.
It uses external power. $1,000, 0.5 lbs. per square foot.
Sealing a 10’ cube requires an area of 600 square feet; a typical
civilian vehicle is about 300 square feet.
Mind Shield Headband (TL10^): A more compact version
of the standard telepathic mind shield, worn as a headband
or tiara. $1,000, 0.1 lb. B/100 hr. LC3.
A TL10 Missile launcher. Either an anti-infantry one or an anti-vehicle one would work. It's a last-resort thing, but a surprising one to pull out, and Jean certainly has the skills required to fab missiles.
And finally, it might be a bit of kicking the ball back to your court, GM, but I think some sort of interest-piquing cybernetic implant of some sort would be cool.
I know some of the items are a bit on the powerful side, but I was thinking about things that might be found in a place where illegal items might be acquired. If I've overstepped the shopping boundaries, I'd accept that.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
I suggest we go and investigate whether or not the offer of Earthgov is fair first. They do appear to have us tracked, so we can either try and be really sneaky, or be really, really loud, and draw a lot of attention, so that the civilian population that's heard of us, knows who we are.
First option will require us to go somewhere with Earth connections (places that the GM might suggest), and accessing both public and governmental information, the latter would require us to show up to Earth, and announce ourselves. It appears that Earthgov and Marsgov are working together, so if we show up on Mars, they might present us with the reward, whatever it is. And also draw a some enemies.
I don't have a strong opinion on either option, but Jean will probably be conflicted about going to Mars, as his Enemy is following him, and operates there. We could also possibly go towards the Moon, and another port there, where we'll possibly be treated like heroes.
It all depends on what we all want to do, but I think the GM has ideas on that, and we can possibly talk and see what the Admiral thinks on the whole matter.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
"Oh, bonjour, Aster...", greets Jean, as his face appears to phase through several different emotions at once. We couldn't have known, no? He sends a warm smile in the man's direction. "I hope the leg is alright, no? I'd say we see where the night takes us, Aster!" He sends another look at the battlesuit. "Hmmm... not sure... Olegsandrovich models can be a bit finnicky, and I'm not sure the shopkeep would let me take it apart and see if nothing major's damaged.", sending a knowing look in the shopkeep's direction, just as the message comes through the comm link.
Jean's face appears to have a singular grin show through and through, mixed with the feeling of pride. "Ha! Rouge signifie liberté et liberté signifie rouge, Terran bastards!", he shouts, pumping his fist in the air. "Mars ne s'inclinera jamais", a patriotic shout leaves his lungs. As the message continues, he lights up a cigarette with a relaxed gesture. "Well, that settles it. I'll be making the meal tonight, mon ami. I'll notify the others." He exhales, putting a knowing smile on his face. "Though, I wonder what they might be rewarding these notable individuals. Or whether Terra has something more... insidious in store."
Scratching his beard deep in thought, Jean finally looks away from the battlesuit. "Hm. I think I'll pass, monsieur. Though, I'm certain you'd have something else piquing my interest, no?"
Jean will be looking at the other interesting items, since I'm a terribly curious being. In addition, he'll also be purchasing 10 meals worth of the food described above (3 daily rations, I think), in order to toast not only the heroes of Styx, but the 'infallibly noble and competent efforts of the Armee Martien'. I don't think the pirates have much love for either Mars, or Terra, but if someone objects, Jean will be his usual charismatic self to avoid any frictions. He's really passionate about his home planet.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
In the morning, or whatever passes for morning on the pirate station, Jean leaves a hab on the station, fixing his tie on the way out. I do hope that the lipstick comes out..., he ponders, half-entertained.
Looking down towards his portable comms, he quickly scrolls through the unread messages, and types one of his own, directed at the crew.
Jean here,
I suggest we call the trip here a success, and I say we meet somewhere to discuss what we're doing next. See you on the ship!
Stopping by a corner and lighting up a cigarette, he takes in the sights of the metal hive. I wonder, what goods unbound by Earth law I might find here..., he muses, venturing further inside.
Streetwise, TN 13:3d6 ⇒ (3, 1, 6) = 10To find out about the Battle-suit, and hopefully some other interesting items as well.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
I think the way I approached it was with quadratic equations, where I compared the Space Armour and the Battlesuit, then divided the advantages by the cost difference.
Although, for simplicity's sake, I think trying to get a TL9, used or otherwise, and making some rolls and paying to get a TL10 one, in effect, can be the way to go. So paying for a TL9, making rolls, and then getting essentially a non-used one, for the cost of a used one. Sounds fair? In the future, if and when it will be customised, we can talk about that there.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
I've got Streetwise. The plan was to invest some free time and some amount of moneys in order to get one to a TL10 level, whether it starts as one or not, and later customise it to his specifications.
Alternatively, as Jean is a bit of a genius, he might be able to fabricate one from scratch, though materials and time would likely be higher, and inventing rolls will be required. I've looked at the gadgeteering rules, and also did a head-wrapping post earlier on in the discussion page.
And of course I know how to drive stick, I'm a European! ^^
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Jean smiles. "Styx, as a matter of fact.", he says with a rascally grin. "Now, I can tell you all about our grand escape over whatever fine food you have here.", he chuckles.
When Jean has the time, he'll re-stock on the 'better food' supplies. I don't know how much credits we have right now, or where we're headed, but he'll be trying to get the parts/inventioneering for a battlesuit ASAP, since right now we're somewhat lacking in combat ability.
I picked up those, the first one have a point in each, which is 12 points total. Would Fusion and Fusion Engine overlap? I can add the last point into the other one, if they don't.
I've dropped some points into Tactics, so that Jean can be a little more useful in Combat, as right now he has a grand total of 6 points spent in that direction.
Alternatively, I also put 4 in Battlesuit for him, in the unlikely event he'll have to fight, since I do see him as more of the Battlesuit pilot. For that, however, I'll be doing some building of said battlesuit when we have time.
EDIT: I'll pick up Artillery(Cannon) or whatever we'll have, since it fires off IQ, and Jean basically has a targeting computer in his head, based on Intuitive Mathematician and all that jazz. With his skills, and with the Heavy Weapons Armoury, we might also start packing some crazy missiles/cannons.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Well, that wasn't in the spirit of competition..., Jean thinks to himself, as he leaves the watching bay. His eyes glare onto a blue-skinned lady strutting around, as he stares with interest. "Mademoiselle!", he says with a charming smile. "I'm quite lost on this space station you have, and I am looking for a guide to show me the... wonders of this place. Is it too forward to ask for a tour?", he asks with a hopeful smile.
So, all in all, that was 13 points. I'll spread them around his skills ASAP.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
I'm fine with picking up where we left! I haven't watched Babylon 5, however. The plan for the basic plot works great for me, though.
Jean has Armoury(Battlesuits) and (Small Arms), and the default for Vehicle Armor would be a 10, or a 13 for him, more if bonuses due to difficulty (Fixing would be easier than making, especially for armour, IMO), so that's pretty much covered, too.
No problem with ret-conning FTL, or the change to cybernetics and nanobots, either.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Jean also has Computer Programming and Electrician. The Mechanic skills aren't as high as an expert, specialised mechanic, however he will be fully competent in them, as long as miracles aren't expected outside his areas of expertise, though I'll be putting some points in the engine/reactor ones ASAP. A point in each will make him a pretty good expert in them. He's not really ship-oriented by design, though I made sure he can default most ship-board repair/operations fairly well.
His best skills are social, and he excells at Electronics.
His DX is rather low, so Piloting and Gunner are outside his forte. He's also built on the core rules.
As for the setting, he's pretty easy to fit, as far as characters go. For the setting, I would prefer if we're not aboard the ship more than, say, 30% of the time, but I could work with it. Mix between space opera and sci-fisounds great, I do like my shades of gray. (har-har)
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Definitely still interested! Sorry for lack of posts, my going back home was delayed significantly, and right now I'm at the airport, with a couple of hours to spare.
Merry Christmas to all that do Christmas, and Happy Holidays for the rest!
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Jean pops another snack in his mouth, and his eyes go wide open as Aster appears to be hit by an invisible force. "Wow. I did NOT know she could do that... It is legal, no?", he asks an onlooker, offering a greasy bag with a smile. "Now what happened to that bet?" He chuckles, dusting food crumbs off his suit.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Jean shrugs. "Well, monsieur, a champion is a champion, no?", he says, starting to walk up the stairs. "If it was for taking a beating, I'd have volunteered, but in here, we want to win." He smiles, pulling out a cigarette from his pocket.
He takes a stop at the food kiosks, picking up the most exotic thing he can see. "Hm, and what is this, exactly?", he asks the vendor, as he glares surprised at the... food. "No matter.", he waves it off.
Reaching the bleachers, he takes a look at the screens, his mouth wide open. "The Debt Man?", he comments after a moment. "Oh, bother... And we left him for dead...", he mutters, sitting down.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Also, I think it might make sense for us all to split the disadvantages among us, as associates. So if I'm not mistaken, that'll come up to 16 points each. Poor, poor Turing, though. All that time doing calibrations.
An alternative I may propose is for all of us to take 16 points of disadvantages towards said group, or the pirates. Saves Aster from taking in sole ownership of the ship and everything bad related to it, and helps the atmosphere of we're all in this together and we're all reasonable and equal.
On the phone right now, so I can't look at the books, but maybe us picking a secret regarding the ship's origins, and an enemy of the previous owner? Maybe a monetary debt towards the pirates?
All in all, we can still reuse the awesome ship map for the new ship, with slight changes, I suppose. Saves all the hard work going to waste, and we can move some of the stuff there.
PS: I suppose that finding that we changed ships FROM the Turing to the new one, might be the secret? The 80 points that the ship costs is offset by some of the disadvantages we picked up in our glorious escape from Styx.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
We weren't, no. She's still onboard the Gauntlet, ready to be experimented on. The device, we got, and it's currently being hidden on the Turing. We know it's from beyond the Rim, so that'd make it pretty damn rare.
Regarding the new ship, that might be good, but I got quite attached to the Turing, despite it's... inefficacies. Don't know what the others think, though.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
TL;DR for Aster.
We went on Mars, it got attacked by Baron Silus. His Squire let a small team to do some sort of weird WMD destruction with a shard from beyond the rim. After an incredible show of luck skill, Jean ventilated the skull of the guys, and we captured three of the soldiers, while the last one managed to get the corpse back on board of the shuttle.
Nedora tried to steal said shuttle, but got caught by the guards, and taken to the ship. We found an Urban legend banging on our door, just after we've managed to let out a full retreat and got the Lunatics to fight for their skins against the ship of Baron Silus. Who we called a massive coward in the process. We escaped in the process, Styx was antimattered, and we took damage in the fight. Then we got captured by SPACE PIRATES! And we also have a kindergarden, three soldiers, and a more-than-usual amount of skullduggery on our ship.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
This reminds me. Is Jack aware of the anti-psi quality of his gloves? And the other question, how convincing would Jean have to be for Jack to let him poke them a bit? Some non-invasive scans?
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Jean appears, having put on one of his finer suits, yet wearing it more casually. "Hm, betting? I would place, say, three thousand on our champion, does that sound acceptable?", he says, reaching for his credit chip. "What appear to be the odds? Or is it pool versus pool?" He takes a look at the rather jittery young man, and placed a calming hand on his shoulder. "Oh, nice suit, by the way. Love the tie knot, is that... Eldredge?", asks Jean curiously. "Truthfully, the palette in here is wonderful. Could I pick up one of those ties somewhere? Or any clothes, really, I couldn't the last time I was port-side.", he starts a casual conversation. "Though, maybe at least you can tell about the last fight the champion was in? And the condition in which his opponent left the arena?", he says calmly with a smile.
Fast Talk to get him to release some information, TN 18:3d6 ⇒ (4, 4, 2) = 10
Electronics Operation(Communication) for psi-scrambler, off Rix's information, TN 16:3d6 ⇒ (3, 1, 3) = 7 "Hm. Our expertise matches d'une forme parfaite.", replies Jean to Rix, scratching his chin. "Perhaps... if you have anything that detects or aids psionic detection, we might be able to turn it into a scrambler of sorts... Or, if you know of such a device and its fonctionnalité, I might be able to... similate a similar device?", he suggest, lighting up another cigarette.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
I suggest Jean doesn't take part in any physical tournaments, unless they're in any way related to curling on the floor in the foetal pose. Both Terra and Jack seem like a good choice, though, I don't think I can chip in to who's the better choice.
As for the exploration, it's whether or not we prefer to remain in hiding in the Inner System, or go out to the place where nobody's ever returned from. If the latter, we should at least try and find a way to be undetectable, or reduce our detectability. If the former, I think that we should see what our plan is, other than hiding and living out the rest of our lives as simple hab-farmers somewhere.
Reaction +8(+10), HP 10/10, FP 10/10, DR 75/45, Dodge 8(5), Favoured Attack(Gauss PDW), F.D. (All-Out Defense), Will 14, Per 14, HT 10, Move 5(3)
Jean scratches his head. "Well, I've got a degree or two in Communications. Might not get the signal problem fixed, but it could help you in the future.", he shakes his head as the trial of combat is raised. What's next, burning psi individuals because they're witches? Barbaric.
"Well, if I'm in it, losing gracefully isn't an option. Last time I was in a fistfight was when I was 9, and I lost. Badly.", he shares. "At any rate, I say we wait until... combat decides it for us.", he scoffs. "I'd frankly prefer if we were in the system, rather than outside. Merde! At least inside I can fiddle with the information coming out of us. Psi-neurology isn't really my forte.", he gives the doctor a wink. "I think our best option is to give either Jack or Terra a chance to win, and if not, handle the consequences. Madame Docteur, we could use the time to think-tank a way into blocking psi-scans, no?", he suggests.
