Main / 1104-364

Calendar

1104-363 -- 1104-364 -- 1104-365

Ship of Unity

Calendar

1104-363 -- 1104-364 -- 1104-365

Timing of events
6:00 - Morning Meeting on Unity
10:02 - Emerge from Jump space in Drinax system
11:00 - Radio messages start
13:00 - Boarded by A Bold Jewel SDB
13:38 - Arrive at Drinax

1104-365 06:00 - Ship of Unity

[Crockett can forsee moment when jump ends and the passengers of the SHIP OF UNITY are delivered unto the Floating Palace at Drinax.] He will seek permission while still in jump from the bridge crew to attend the bridge for a better view early on Day 365 of the floating palace.

Khearl has seen grav-cities before. There are several such on Mire/Daryen, and he has been there many times. On Arrival Day he will be packed and ready to debark, and will ensure that the customs seals on his rifle case are intact. This gives him time to watch the Unity's approach and traffic orbit on the widescreen in the common room. He is curious to see if Drinax/Tlaiowaha is as desolate as he has heard. He's NEVER seen a world that was purposefully ruined before and he is morbidly curious about it.

1104-364 10:02 - Emerge from Jump space in Drinax system

{Radio Communications available again}

1104-364 10:38 - Pioneer emerges from Jump Space

1104-364 11:00

(Administrative Aide Dar)"Hello Sir Crockett, there are no messages for you that came in the first exchange with Drinax and the Floating Palace. I did want to inform you that your previous ship the Pioneer did arrive here in system a short time ago. When they message you I will patch it through to you. If there are any messages you need to send please let me know."

1104-364 11:10

(Administrative Aide Dar)"Hello Khearl, I wanted to let you know that there are no messages for you that came in the first exchange with Drinax and the Floating Palace. If there are any messages you need to send please let me know."

(Khearl) "Thank you. I am expecting no messages, but I thank you for your courtesy. Would you please tell your lord that this trip has been very pleasant and I learned much. If I am unable to say so personally, please render my gratitude to him."

1104-364 11:15

(Captain Bennett) Attention crew and passengers. Expect to be boarded at approximately 13:00 by the Drinax Navy for routine visitor checks. Captain out

(Khearl) "My weapon is in the cargo hold with the customs seals intact. Is there anything else I might need to consider? Will being Fteirle cause problems with the captain or your lord?"

(Administrative Aide Dar)"Khearl, I do not think you will be taking anything out of the cargo hold yet. I will ask Provost Shala if she wants you to have your weapon with you when she has you accompany her to see the King. You do know how to swim right?"

(Khearl) "We Fteirle do not swim for recreation, our legs are built wrong for it, but I can swim. Most of us are taught the skill if we grow up on a world that allows for it. But I will say that I'm not very graceful at it. Please tell the Provost that I accept their invitation. I have never met a hisloi head of state before."

[regarding lack of radio messages for Crockett] Not a problem, am expecting to hear something from Mikhel aboard The Pioneer at some stage, but he's likely checking all aboard Pioneer for "sleeping jump flu or lizard's revenge" right now.

[for Administrative Aide Dar ] Out of courtesy to Captain regarding upcoming boarding by Drinax Customs, you might make sure the bridge knows that I have weapons stored in my sealed crate in our cargo space. Just so he is not caught unawares.

1104-364 12:50 - Arrival of the System Defence Boat A Bold Jewel at the rendezvous location

The Bold Jewel comes alongside of the Ship of Unity. As airlocks open two guards dressed in expansive gold colored uniforms enter carrying data pads, while one more with a long laser rifle stands guard at the airlock linkage. Provost Shala is there with Captain Bennett. Captain Bennett looks over the data pad and acknowledges for her crew. Provost Shala nods and turns to the guard. "Greetings, I am certain you will find our diplomatic papers in order. Myself, Provost Falx, our Administrative Aid Dar, and my two guests. gestures over to Crockett and KhearlThey are part of our mission and will follow all of our restrictions."

One of the guards turns to the two of them and offers a data pad for them to acknowledge for custom forms etc.

Khearl takes the datapad and signs it. "Officer, do your people require anything of Fteirle diplomatic guests? I do not wish to cause offense though discourtesy or ignorance."

(Guard)"His Excellency King Oleb is very generous with his guests. There is an Aslan at court now, a Kasiyl of the Ahroay'if you may want to speak with to confirm how well he has been treated."

[Crockett also willingly signs datapad] Not clearly reading entries on this page for editing purposes....

[to ROYAL GUARD] Say...what's chance of a visit today or tomorrow to Floating Palace and chance to look around a bit and perhaps meet some local inhabitants?

Khearl's ears literally perk up. "May I join your tour, Crokh-ett? It is wise to see the ground before one has to fight on it."

(Guard)"His Excellency King Oleb has given permission to the Ship of Unity to dock at the Royal Docks along side the Royal Yacht. You will need to clear security, no weapons, no armor while visiting the Floating Palace of course. The Royal Guard can handle any security you feel necessary. The King's Hawk Warriors are more than a match for any miscreant that dares show their face.

(Guard)"Of course Provost Shala can make any arrangements she sees fit before her appointment with... His tablet beeps and he looks down, then back up at Crockett, down at the table again and back up.. "I ask your pardon, I did not realize it was Sir James Crockett. Certainly we will accommodate your stay here. Just have your Administrative Aide contact us and we will ensure all details are complete. Your appointment with His Excellency is at Noon on the First.

Provost Shala looks intriqued, and Provost Falx smiles with being correct in his assessment.

The three royal guards exit the Unity and back to the Bold Jewel. A few moments later on the radio Captain Bennett receives instructions. She comes back to the crew area shortly afterward.

(Captain Bennett)"Well gentlemen it seems we were well received. Thank you for that. We have secured docking space at the King's own docks. I am not certain if it our Diplomatic mission or recognition for you two but I am pleased with the outcome in any case. We will arrive at the docks in about a half hours time. To my previous understanding there is no place for us to stay outside of our own ship. Perhaps our guests can arrange something else?" She smiles, happy with this outcome.

Provost Shala and Provost Falx are in Shala's quarters discussing something.

1104-364 13:38 - Arrive at Drinax

The Ship of Unity arrives at the Royal Docks on the port side of the Floating Palace. There is a gilded Yacht almost dripping with gold and red accents parked on right side of the docks, obviously the Royal Yacht. The Unity is directed to the far left space away from the Yacht, leaving plenty of room in between for other ships to land.

(Administrative Aide Dar)"Khearl and... Sir James Crockett? Provost Falx noted that you had expressed interest in Sindilarian Artifacts while on Torpol and you never got to see any. I have arranged a visit to the Art Gallery for the two of you at 18:00. Dinner will be here on the Unity tonight. Tomorrow morning we will have a meeting regarding your positions with Provost Shala when she meets with King Oleb tomorrow. I understand you have your own meeting scheduled with King Oleb the next day at Noon Sir James Crockett. Is there anything you would like me to assist with for that?

While I very much appreciate that you have gone to this trouble to arrange the art gallery tour...it was not me who expressed interest in Sindalian artifacts back on Torpol and I would politely decline participating in the tour you have arranged for that purpose.

I will say I will need your assistance on New Year's Day to arrange transport for me to get to the King's party. I'd like to get there fairly early so you might determine when the appropriate arrival time might be...I will be meeting up with others there...but still want to arrive early.

...and, just to confirm, it would appear that the King's Guard/customs were happy with my documentation and that I am included in the welcome mat issued by The King?

...What about the closing remarks from the King's Guard: (i.e. Just have your Administrative Aide contact us and we will ensure all details are complete) ? I am hoping you understood what needs to be followed up on so I can safely arrive at the party on New Year's Day.

(muses to self about trying to find the Aslan and having a chat before I leave for King's party) He begins to search the vessel for whereabouts of Aslan.

1104-364-17:30 - Radio Personal Communications Captain Athena Solis, this is Administrative Aide Dar with a request from Provost Shala of Torpol, aboard the Ship of Unity. Provost Shala would like to host you for a breakfast meeting onboard the Ship of Unity at 08:00 tomorrow morning. Please acknowledge if this is a good time for you. Provost Shala has a query about your previous work in other systems prior to entering the Reach. I await your reply. Unity out.

1104-364 16:00

Crockett aboard UNITY hailing Mikhel aboard Pioneer: How should we meet up on New Year's Day?

1104-364-17:30 - Radio Personal Communications Captain Athena Solis, this is Administrative Aide Dar with a request from Provost Shala of Torpol, aboard the Ship of Unity. Provost Shala would like to host you for a breakfast meeting onboard the Ship of Unity at 08:00 tomorrow morning. Please acknowledge if this is a good time for you. Provost Shala has a query about your previous work in other systems prior to entering the Reach. I await your reply. Unity out.

Captain Solis to Administrative Aide Dar. Request acknowledged and accepted.

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSV Pioneer
O Grp postponed. RVP TBD.

To M.M.Dromah, Pioneer Message received....will check code book

Crockett sends message to Administrative Aide DAR and includes request for her to seek permission for him to visit the bridge of the UNITY if possible so that he might ask for sensor review of ships in immediate area of Drinax.... including those vessels docked at Royal Docks and other entrance to Floating Palace....

(Admin Aide Dar)"Sir Crockett, I am here with the answers you requested for the sensor scans. Understandably you are not allowed on the bridge at this time, but Provost Falx provided this list of ships for your query." She hands over a data pad with details of these ships:

  • Ship of Unity - at the Royal Docks, details of the ship withheld
  • King's Royal Yacht - at the Royal Docks, details of the ship withheld
  • Voyager, Pinnace from the Pioneer - at the Royal Docks, full details
  • Suraksha, Ships Boat, owned by Sultana - at the Royal Docks, full details
  • A Bold Jewel, Systems Defense Boat - traversing the space from Drinax to the 100D jump point, details of ship witheld
  • Pioneer - in synchronized orbit to the Floating Palace - full details

There is no indication of any ships docked at the Floating Palace on the public landing pad.

For Administrative Aide DAR Very much appreciated. Please pass my thanks along to the bridge personnel I find this amazing by the way....Here it is almost New Year's Day and if it were not for the King's special guests this whole sector would be somewhat quiet in terms of vessel traffic....

Pioneer

Calendar

1104-363 -- 1104-364 -- 1104-365

Timing of events
6:00 - Morning Meeting on Pioneer
10:38 - Pioneer emerges from Jump Space
14:00 - Voyager rendezvous with Invisible Hand
15:00 - A Bold Jewel SDB rendezvous with Pioneer
15:56 - Pioneer reaches Drinax

1104-364 6:00 - Morning Meeting on Pioneer

Organised, punctual, curious, team-player. It was these traits of Silas' that had him up early (woken by AI companion Vix), dressed in his best clothes (not uniform; he'd left both his Naval and Scout dress and identity behind when he decided to become and Traveller), groomed and subtly smelling of Katarulun cologne (an affectation he'd adopted thirteen years ago and of which he'd reminded Vix to locate a new supply or another scent as he was running low).

Having never been to Drinax he'd spent the week in jump space alternately training (lead by Vix and the personal trainer) and researching all he could from the Ship's library about Drinax, the old Sindalian Empire history, personalities and lineages, the Harrier and the systems hereabouts. He might have been found around meal times with his HUD glasses playing light over his face and him subvocalising nearly non-audibly to Vix. However, if addressed Silas would flip the glasses to his brow and amiably update crewmates on an interesting tid-bit or research finding, seeking collegiate consensus or a counterpoint view whilst getting to know some crewmembers better.

It was noticeable that he aimed to be best prepared for whatever came next, and his intended approach was to establish a rapport with the Drinaxian King through knowledge and diplomacy. He had previously spent time among nobility and he was curious about these remote outposts and how they functioned given their separation and support from the Imperium. These would be topics for discussion most sought by Silas, which subsided into quiet contemplation as their journey neared its end.

Harison went about his usual duties making sure the ship was all in order and ready for leaving jump space. He was very excited to see the floating palace it was by all accounts a city of beauty and marvels. Set against the backdrop of a radiated and desolated planet a constant reminder of their past greed and the destructive potential of the Aslan empire. Then the meeting with the king to see what his plan was, this was very intriguing. The mysterious Harrier ship what was her story? What shape was she in? This would be a very interesting few days to say the least.

Before the expected arrival time Harison made his way to the bridge. "Good day everyone we have an exciting few days ahead of us let’s get there in one piece." He said with a playful smile. He took a seat at one of the stations and started checking the sensor data and getting the sensors ready for when they came out of Jump Space.

Sir Lt Sultana spent his morning overseeing the other pilots, in his role as 'senior' pilot on board. Not that he expected to find any particular error or fault in either of them. He also took the opportunity to watch them at work and talk with them as they did, getting a better feel for their personalities and responses. He'd been unpleasantly surprised once in the past by a co-conspirator, so he tried to take reasonable precautions against a repeat occurrence.

1104-364 10:38 - Emerge from Jump space in Drinax system

Discover Ship of Unity already in system

(radio communications possible again)

Mikhel institutes his System Entry Procedure, doing the burst inquiry transmission. He will do this only after the Pioneer completes the standard System Entry Procedure for Ship's ID and Status. Things in Mikhel's checklist:
- Check 'Wanted Postings' and Law Alerts;
- Check current legal/illegal prescription drugs (updates to App subscription, but manual check for anomalies);
- Check for DWB Alerts/Notices;
- Check for notices of sales of collectables for specific items;
- Check for Persons of Interest (Contacts/Friends/Enemies);
- Check for Ships of Interest (Flag Tours by Big Navies, big ships, hospital/medical ships); and
- Check for unique/unusual clothing (Nika?).

Sir Lt Sultana will focus his inquiries on the social scene.
- Check for celebrities (local or otherwise) who have recently arrived.
- Check for recent news of the King and nobility, gathering names and roles.
- Check for other events happening around the Royal Ball.
- Find out who he will need to contact about attending the Ball.

Lab Ship Pioneer this is Drinax control. Welcome to the Kingdom of Drinax, home to his excellency King Oleb XVI, long may he reign, and the site of the Sindalian Wonder the Floating Palace of Drinax. State the reason for your attendance to our Kingdom.

Drinax Control, this is Pioneer, Sir Lt Sultana speaking. Several of the passengers have tickets to the upcoming King's Ball. Who should we contact to make arrangements for attending?

Lab Ship Pioneer continue on your path towards the magnificence of the Floating Palace. Send along the names of the nobles you are transporting so we can form an appropriate welcoming party. I will release the message traffic to your ship as you approach.

Drinax Control, we have the following ticket holders: Captain Athena Solis of the Pioneer; Eleni Kagaragu, of the Pioneer; Sir Lt Gopal Sultana; Mikhel Dromah. We also carry Admiral Harison Dawn and an associate who are interested in attending if tickets are available. Much obliged for any assistance you're able to provide.

Sultana Completes his scans of the system. Other than the Ship of Unity from Torpol there are no other star ships moving about the system, only some system boats. The more unusual thing he discovers is there is no high port or low port. Apparently all traffic goes in or out of one spot on the planet, the Floating Palace.

Lab Ship Pioneer continue on your path. We are cross referencing your requests with those of other vessels and the very busy schedule of his excellency. Additional information will be delivered shortly.

Harison connects online to Dranix’s Floating Palace and taking his time starts looking for a potential buyer for the cargo. Reporting any offers to Lt. Sultana.

Admin roll of 14 effect +6 takes 1hour

Silas briefly wondered whether he’d hear news about his missing ship once they’d established comms, but thought it too soon to hear back from the IISS yet. With not much else to occupy his time, he set to monitoring sensors where possible, scanning sector traffic, planets and infrastructure as he’d determined to do. Although he held some reservations, he’d hopefully encounter little to surprise him.

Lab Ship Pioneer this is the ship Invisible Hand, I am Captain Ranchando. Permission to rendevous with you to discuss your potential trading activities before you reach the Floating Palace. May I suggest you keep on your current course and I will be able to match to come along to dock at 14:00. I will be glad to assist Admiral Harison with his request.

After reading the message he calls out to the Captain. "Captain there is a ship requesting permission to dock with us before we get to the floating palace there offering to help with trade? He has mentioned my name, but I have no idea who he is or the ship. I’ll scan them now for more info on the ship. It feels suspicious to me but will message them back for more information."

"They cannot dock with the Pioneer. It is not made for it. Take the Voyager and whoever you see fit and dock at their ship. Or perhaps the Lieutenant will let you use Suraksha."

Electronics (sensors) Diff 8
Roll snake eyes for a 6 average fail

Pioneer To Captain Ranchando.
I have sent you request up the line to the Captain. If you are interested in the cargo we have for sale I am open to hear your offer might save up all some time if it not inline with what we are after. We have an important appointment to make on the Floating Palace so time is a factor for us to get there. I hope you understand.
Harison Dawn

Lab Ship Pioneer this is Invisible Hand. I understand your concerns on timing. If your ship has not synced yet you do have one full day before the King's Ball. I do think you would benefit from a private discussion with me about your potential trades to make here in system. I am on course to meet with you at your expected coordinates.

Pioneer To Captain Ranchando.
Apologies, Captain permission has been denied by my Captain. I hope you take no offense by this. It’s just that we are a lab ship and the scientist here value the security of their work and visitors to the ship are very restricted. But I would be happy to meet you on floating Palace. As when we arrive I have no pressing matters to attend.
Harison Dawn

Lab Ship Pioneer this is Invisible Hand. I understand what you are saying and it is a reasonable stance to have if you are delivering trade goods such as... aspirin or rum. They will take the limiter off of your transmissions soon and if you do not have a broker secured you may not have any goods to trade. My only interest is in assisting you with the transactions you want to do. I am glad to help but that would be best to happen before you reach the Floating Palace. You are welcome to come to my ship in your shuttle if you like so as to not disturb any work being done on your ship.

Lab Ship Pioneer this is Drinax Control. Did you say Eleni Kagaragu and Mikhel Dromah as guests you are bringing to his excellency King Oleb XVI, long may he reign, and the site of the Sindalian Wonder the Floating Palace of Drinax for an audience with King Oleb XVI? You will forward such confirmations of the presence of such individuals to us.

- Responses to Mikhel

  1. no new postings here at Drinax for anyone on the Pioneer crew
  2. banned substances are as Mikhel expected for Drinax (notably Anagathics are known to be used but are controled)
  3. there are no DWB notices requesting help but Mikhel does see a brand new addition added by the Ship of Unity detailing the Pioneer and Mikhel's assistance at Marduk
  4. there are several bits of chatter involving a Ranchando as a merchant who has often be able to acquire artifacts
  5. nothing on the list of contacts
  6. the Ship of Unity seems to be the most interesting ship to be in system other than the Pioneer
  7. no notices involved Nika

- Responses to Sultana

  1. key celebrities are the Ship of Unity, with two Provosts on board
  2. the King seems to have a special guest lined up for his New Years Day party but it is a secret that many are speculating on who it is
  3. Prince Harrick is rumored to make an appearance on New Years Day, Sultana does not know why that is significant
  4. Drinax Control seems to be the clearing house for contact with the Floating Palace unless you have a specific person to speak with. Sultana gets the impression that no one under SOC 10 is even allowed at the Floating Palace

What does 'Controlled' look like for drugs in this system? Is there a control office/organization that must be navigated? What if we don't sell the drugs, but make gifts of them? Still controlled? This is passive research, not overt inquiries.
What are 'artefacts' and their relation to this 'Ranchando'? Could the artefacts be 'Sindalian?
The search for clothing and or unusual items of interest to Nika was not in relation to her name, just for things that might be 'exotic' and of interest to someone like Nika.

Harison finishes reading the last communication from Captain Ranchando he turns to the Captain and other crew on the bridge." The Captain of the Invisible Hand is quite persistent about an in person meeting he seems to know a lot about us which is very suspicious. Permission to take the shuttle and go meet him on his ship. See what he wants could be the political games of Dranix have all ready started or his just a well informed trader."

"Then take the Voyager, take Silas, and go meet him. The Lieutenant can remain here to pilot Pioneer in the meantime."

”I I Captain We will leave now.”

To Captain Ranchando on the Invisible Hand.
Thank you kindly Captain for your offer. My colleague Mr. Lane and I would like to take you up on it. We shall be taking the shuttle to visit your ship.
Harison Dawn

Pioneer to Drinax Control. Understood, I will send the requested information shortly.

Sultana messages Cpt Solis and the other attendees that Drinax Control has been notified of their attendance, and that they're asking for identification documents, and that Sultana is preparing the data packets to be sent.

He also does some quick data queries to look up basic information on Prince Harrick and the two Provosts on the Unity. Unless someone should happen to object, he will send the ID confirmation packets in about 15 minutes to Drinax Control for Eleni and Mikhel.

1104-364 11:00 - Depart for rendezvous point with Invisible Hand

Silas hovered at the ready by Harison as arrangments were made to rendezvous with the Captain Ranchando. "I'd like to accompany you on the meeting," Silas grinned at Harison seeking to assuage his nerves at the meeting with the insistent Drinaxian (broker?) "I've sat still long enough. It will be good to stretch the legs." Silas was ready to go attired in his best clothes, customary HUD shades and cutlass and laser pistol strapped to his belt. "Who's driving?"

Harison left the bridge with Silas as they headed to the Voyager."Your right Mr. Lane it will be good to stretch our legs. See what this Captain has to say. I believe you should take the wheel I think your skill at flying might surpass my own I’ll handle the coms"As they approach the Voyager he asks Silas "Expecting trouble or just being prepared? I am sure they will out number us and out gun us. But surely they won’t kill two guests maybe one but not two."

'1104-364 11:00 - Internal Pioneer Email System

To Captain, Chief Pilot, and Broker of the Pioneer, From Chief Medical Officer
Please be advised that there may be an issue with our cargo. It appears that our cargo may be subject to controlled/restricted regulations.
Actually, this shouldn't be a surprise. On consideration, any government/ruling agency would want to have control, or at least knowledge of, the import and use of things like our cargo.
Caution may be required.
Mikhel Dromah
Ship's Doctor, So Called.

1104-364 14:00 - Arrive at rendezvous point with Invisible Hand

Voyager this is Invisible Hand. I am set for you to align airlocks. Would you like to initiate or should I?

Invisible Hand Thank you my colleague Mr. Lane will bring Voyager into alignment with the airlock.

Silas adeptly brought the Voyager alongside to dock with the Invisible Hand in short order, making sure to vocalise each step to his crewmate - textbook. Once completed and satisfied that the docking was secure, he prepared to accompany Harison saying, "Well. This is your show. I'm there if you need anything... In the mean time I'll be an observer." His mood was cheerful and light, glad to be out of jumpspace and in a place of new prospects.

[SKILL] Pilot (2D+1)(vs Difficulty 6) 7+1=8 +2 Effect Average Success 1D minutes = 1 minute

Hello Voyager, I am Ranchando, Captain of the Invisible Hand. Welcome on board my ship. gestures to the crew areaCome have a seat and we can talk. Which one of you is Admiral Harison?" moves to take a seat at the table. Everything looks very clean and well cared for.

"That would be me sir, pleasure to meet you." Harrison reaches out to shake his hand. "But I’m no longer an admiral retired as of a few weeks ago and this is my colleague Mr. Lane. You have a fine vessel here she looks very well looked after. Thank you for the invitation to come aboard it is much appreciated." Harrison then takes a seat at the table.

(Ranchando)"Good to meet you both. I wanted to speak with you before you drew too much more attention to yourselves with your proposed trade goods. Tell me why are you here at Drinax?"

"Some of our senior crewmembers have been invited to a party on New Year’s Eve. Unfortunately Mr.Lane and myself or not so lucky to be invited. We are just new crew-members I myself only sign on just before we jumped here."

Silas courteously offered a hand to Captain Ranchando and introduced himself. "I am here at Drinax to explore new opportunities in the frontier, and am most intrigued by what I have heard about the Floating Palace and the nobles, descendants of the distant Sindalian past. It's said that travellers of virtue may find themselves gainful employment..." he tried to assess the broker, sizing up any reaction to his words.

"As Mr. Dawn has mentioned, we have heard about the party... it would be brilliant to be able to join in the festivities..." he diplomatically sought to draw out more information where possible but ultimately would quieten down and allow Harison to discuss the trade business at hand. Whilst this was happening he'd keep a watchful eye, trying always to learn what he could about the Drinaxians and this part of the galaxy.

A robot slides along the floor, bringing a tray of drinks and a bowl of snacks to the table, setting it down for everyone and then quietly moves away.

(Ranchando)"I am surprised to see the two of you here, and on a science ship. I had not heard of the Pioneer until you arrived in system. I do not think you were expected at all. Yet here you are, with interesting trade goods to sell, wanting to attend parties with the King. It is a most surprising occurrence. I admit that King Oleb might find it amusing. You might find it so also, but also be poorer when you leave. You did not research what to bring to Drinax as trade goods I can tell. If I may ask, who are your crew that has been invited to Drinax? I would like to help you have a smooth visit here, which is why I wanted very much to have this meeting here and now before you are unable to continue utilize all your options."

Harison gestures at the drinks and snacks "Thank you, you are too kind." Then takes his drink and seats back in his seat. "As you can tell we are not merchants of your calibre only part-time dabblers. One of the first tasks I was given last week was to see could I find and purchase said cargo. My superior told me they were in demand here so I found a seller we settled on a price our captain ok it and released the funds. A week later and here we are having this chat. Now you have being hinting that our cargo will be confiscated what are we missing? That’s leads me to my next question why help us now? I don’t mean to be rude I appreciate the help we all need friend out here in the darkness of space. But as you said you have never heard of our ship before, you don’t think we are expected which mean you have an idea who is. That my friend is very interesting. Leads me to believe that you’re not an average run of the mill trader out here in space."

(Ranchando)"I am happy to see you have given up some of your trust in Naval procedures. From what I have heard many an officer would be disarmed and relaxed by a setting like this. Raises his glass To Growth and downs his drink.

"You have good questions. I have my own of you but we will not have time to explore all of those ideas. I do not know who you are yet, but if you have the knowledge that your... discrete cargo shall we say... would be welcomed here then you are learning to traffic in something more valuable, knowledge. I will do more research on you and your crew as I can, it is always good to know smart people. I do hope you did not bring your goods with you on that pinnace?

"Captain Ranchando I think you missed your calling as a politician start off with a compliments then not answer any other questions and then ask another question. Look you can do all the research on us that you want hell I’ll send you on my navy service record. It won’t do you any good the only way you’ll really know some one is to work with them see what there made of in person. I must say I am slightly disappointed with our meeting you were very insistent on it that I thought you had so thing in mind that would be beneficial to both party’s not just a get to know you meeting."

(Ranchando) with a tight smile "You should always take the chance to get to know who you are going to potentially work with. I will agree with you that I am as much a politician as I am a business person. My section of the Floating Palace is known as the Bazaar for a reason. There are a few Nobles who dabble in business that you might find common cause with. Or the King could decide that your trade goods are too valuable or reactionary to have at large for the public. King Oleb might even thank you for bringing such things to his attention. Or a politician might be able to help you negotiate the complications of the Floating Palace and help you secure a reward from the King in exchange for assisting him in intervening in such matters.

He takes another long drink and gestures to the side. A robot slides forward to take his empty glass and replace it with a refill. Nodding to Harison and Silas.

(Ranchando)"It is very good of you to be cautious and not fully trust someone like me. I am in agreement with you on that. My unsolicited advice is to keep your cargo locked up safe on the Pioneer and not let anyone know you actually have that there to trade. Come up with what ever reason you would like for your initial inquiry. Once you find your way to the Floating Palace I do hope you will come visit me in the Bazaar. It is in the first ring, just coreward towards the Palace, next to the Art Gallery. I will be glad to spend more time with you then to craft a plan for you to meet with King Oleb and hopefully turn a bit of profit from your visit.

(Ranchando)"We do have another half hour or so before you will have to leave to rendezvous with the Pioneer. Please ask me the questions you need answers to that will help you research myself and other things you need to know here on Drinax.

"Captain Ranchando now we are talking making a profit is the name of the game. I will call in and see you and thanks for the advice of hiding the cargo is it a control substance on Drinax? And whats the political situation on Dranix is the king in full control? And what kind of man is he just, fair, tyrant, warlord?"

(Ranchando)"I would not say it is a controlled substance as you think of them in the Navy. There are those who use things that are mostly illegal but someone turns a blind eye on their actions. Here at the Floating Palace it is an open secret that King Oleb is extending his age in some fashion. He publicly says it is because he stays so fit. It would take an extremely fit individual to be well over a century old and still participating in physical sporting events. For your question on is he in full control? That is a source of concern at Court. Prince Harrick is not well, Princess Rao is.... interesting to say the least. I am sure you will meet her once she hears of travellers like yourselves being here. New is interesting and breaks the tedium. Are either of them ready to take over if something happens to our King? That is the question that keeps the Court gossiping.

takes a sip of his drink and pauses before continuing

(Ranchando)"For what kind of man King Oleb is? He is fair, impetuous, he wants a return to the glory days, he still has not reconciled him self with the war on Asim, he wants a bigger piece of The Reach and to put his mark on destiny. He can drink me under the table. raises his glass ironically as he downs his third drink in 15 minutes

(Ranchando)"Tell me though, why did you only bring these goods with you and not, say, jewels, or fancy foodstuffs?

"That’s a good question as I said I was just told what to get and I got it. If I was to guess I say it’s cause they believed they were in demand here and that they are high value per ton with the lad ship not having much cargo space again that’s just a guess."

Silas accepted the drinks proffered by Ranchando and followed the conversation closely. Although he had only a "hmm," and an "ahah," to contribute, his mind was spinning with possibilities. However, towards the end of the meeting he’d firmed a course of action for himself.

To smooth out his place in the discussion, Silas diplomatically deferred to Ranchando, and made efforts to let the broker know that he strongly valued him as a contact on Drinax, "I personally am grateful for you meeting with us and will be sure to seek your opinion and advice on trade and Court matters. Have no doubt I will seek you in your Bazaar in the near future, thank you very much." He shook Ranchando’s hand with both of his, with an effusive, "very pleased to meet you!" and waited until Harison was ready to depart.

"Thanks again for inviting us over we will talk again after we make it to the floating palace. I appreciate your advice about your cargo.We have taken out too much of your time already and appreciate that a man such as yourself that time is money.." Harison Shook Ranchando’s hand and head back to the Voyager.

On returning back to the Pioneer, Harison made his way up to the bridge knowing the Captain and Lt Sultana would be still up there. As he walked in, he saluted the captain."Reporting back from our trip. We met with Ranchando from our conversation, I guessing that he’s fronting as a trader. I say he’s some sort of information broker or undercover spy for who not sure. He was trying to find out who on the ship was invited to the party I told him some of the senior crew no names. I guess he has access to the list of people who were and that most of them have arrived already. He said he was not expecting anymore. So he has some connections in the Kings Court. And that not many people know that you are invited. So the kings plan must not be very well known among his court. He also said that the court is concerned about his control that the prince is unwell that the princess is unique?
He might be a good contact to keep in with he has invited us to his shop on the floating Plaza after we land. Don’t think we can really trust him just yet, but he definitely didn’t get what he wanted out of us so I think he’ll try and keep us on his good side till he decides were either useful or not useful to him. He did tell me to hide our cargo in the pinnacle and come up with an excuse why we were looking to sell some."

Sultana contemplates this information for a minute, then nods. "Thank you for the information, Admiral. Did you see Dromah's message that the anagathics are legally a controlled substance here? So we'll either need to be very careful with it, or just hold onto it for another system. I've submitted the names of our ticket holders to the Palace, by the way. We'll need to find a way to get you a ticket too if we can."
"Prince Harrick is rumored to be attending the ball, and the King is rumored to have a secret guest that no one knows who it is. Lots of guesses, no firm evidence. I'm doing a bit of digging, and I'll add the Princess into it. Did you get her name?"

"Thanks For trying. Ranchando did say that when we visit him he would try and get us a meeting with the King I don’t know if it would be at the party but I can’t see it being any thing else. Sorry I did get her name it was Princess Rao.I did see the message we will be more careful moving forward. The king does use them as his over 100 years old so some one is supplying him as they don’t have the Tec level to produce them here as far as I can tell."

Harison turns to the Captain "How do you want us to proceed, Captain?"

Silas addressed both Harison and Sultana hoping to impart his opinion on the interaction, "I feel this interaction perhaps has us in a slight predicament, whereby good broker Ranchando could encourage whatever Drinax authority to take steps to penalise us for possession, either by blackmail or direct action. Although he made no intimation of the kind, my experience of Court is that everyone... ah... caretakes their own prospects." Silas ran a hand through his thick hair which made no difference at all to its messy state. "In this particular instance, I believe we need to involve Ranchando in any mercantile activities involving this particular cargo... ensuring we use him as a broker and pay the nominal fee. What is it? Ten or fifteen percent..?"

He gave the others an opportunity to respond before he proffered the other idea he'd been mulling over. "Unless we very discretely and diplomatically arrange a sale directly to the King... whom we assume is using anagathics. He might take advantage of this cargo, or use it to make better and influential friends. He's ambitious, correct?" Silas' eyes gleamed with a transmittable enthusiasm. "Ranchando may be betting each way... which would explain his cautiousness. In that he may be able to bring down the law on us, but is afraid of our unknown connection to the King. Sorry my good crewmates, that's my thoughts. It's really harder to know more until our boots fall on the hallowed flags of the Floating Palace!"

Harison listens to what Silas has to say and nodding in agreement as he’s talking waiting for him to finish before he speaking."I think you are right, as far as Ranchando to him we are an unknown quantity. Correct we also, don’t really have the lay of the land here we don’t know who all the players are. Till we get boots on the ground. Also we have guests of the king on board so the inspection might be more formal than intrusive so if nothing is obviously in the open they might just miss it. We can all so re label the cargo to some other medicine or experimental drug How many custom guards have a background in science or medicine to tell the difference?"

"I don't mind trying to make friends in both directions. Maybe sell a good portion of it to Rachando, and keep some for a chance of our own negotiations? We can re-label the portion we keep and store it among the Pioneer's medical supplies, or stash it on the Suraksha (Sultana's boat) so that if it gets found there's plausible deniability for the Captain."

1104-364 15:00 - Arrive at rendezvous point with A Bold Jewel SDB

Lab Ship Pioneer this is A Bold Jewel here to assist with your stay at the magnificent Floating Palace. We will be docking at your central port

"Chief Pilot! Do we need to clear the docking ring for the visitors, or will we have to shuttle them in from the Pinnace? The alternative could be the Air/Raft and Vacc Suits? I'm available for either option."

Moving the Voyager assumes the SDB can dock with the center ring. If the SDB isn't a 6m diameter ring hull form, the SDB isn't docking with the Pioneer.

Agreed that I think the SOP would be to send the Pinnace over to pick up whoever they want to bring aboard the Pioneer. But they may be Pinnace-sized for all I know. ;)

A Bold Jewel SDB, this is Pioneer. Do you require us to send our pinnace over to bring your people aboard, or do you have a pinnace or compatible dock of your own?

Pioneer this is A Bold Jewel. We have an extender if needed. If you can please move your Pinnace... I see it registered as The Voyager... from the dock and we can match up there.

"Affirmative, Jewel. We're detaching the Voyager now."

"Lane, would you mind taking over the Voyager for now, while the Admiral holds the controls here? I'll handle the Suraksha if they need it for any reason."

Silas responded to Sultana, "Affirmative." He quickly consulted the ship's computer regarding the docking coupling and the Voyager's fuel status and other vitals before he nodded a 'back soon' at the crew. He moved quickly through the ship, cycled the airlock and found himself at the controls of the Pinnace. He radioed back through to confirm undocking (protocol was a difficult habit to break) and gently jetted the Voyager clear of the Pioneer and into a position where he had visual of both the SDB and his crew.

“ Happy to jump in and take the controls off you lieutenant” Harison move over to take the wheel of Sultana when his ready.

With all pilot positions covered, Mikhel gets his datapad set up with the usual Customs-Medical files: crew/staff vaccination records; health inspection records; Med Bay inventories; etc. Nothing has come up over jump to Drinax in the "notifiable" category.

The Bold Jewel docks securely with the Pioneer.

As the airlock opens up two guards step forward, wearing gold uniforms with red trim. A third stands in the airlock to the SDB.

(Guard)"Welcome to the Kingdom of Drinax, the home of his majesty King Oleb XVI, the location of the magnificent Floating Palace. I am told that Mikhel Dromah, Eleni Kagaragu and Sir Golpal Sultana are here to greet us? We look forward to hosting you for the festivities. I do hope that Captain Solis will be able to be here to sign for the Pioneer. Certainly she is a very busy person but I would request that she attend in person for the formality of signing acceptance of the systems verification.

(Guard)"I am aware of several more researchers in residence on the Pioneer. We do ask that Captain Solis designate someone to be responsible for chaperoning them during any visits to the Floating Palace. I also have a note that we need to clear you quickly as you have an appointment at the Bazaar with Ranchando at 18:00. Many people enjoy a visit to the gallery with him, the collection is quite unique.

(Guard)"I am certain you are aware that the Pioneer cannot dock at the Floating Palace directly. Your ship has been given orbit rights to maintain position at these coordinates he indicates on a second data pad "of course your pinnace the Voyager can use the Royal Docks as needed, a space has been reserved for you there. If I could please have the four of three of you sign? And if Captain Solis can take a moment to join us?"

Sir Lt Sultana steps forward and takes the pad and signs his name to it, then hands it off to the next person. He then opens his comms and messages Captain Solis: "Captain Solis, they require your signature on the paperwork."

"Yes, yes I'll be there shortly. I just need to ..." There is cursing before the comm ends. Nothing unusual.

Being the only other named individual in attendance, Mikhel takes the pad and signs his name. He hands the pad back to the Guard, and asks, "Are there any requirements to provide medical status or health conditions of the ship and crew? Do you have any drug restrictions of which we should be aware? I'm asking about any prescription medications or intoxicants, primarily, but anything that is prohibited or restricted is something about which I would like to know.

Sultana comms Eleni as well while Mikhel is talking, letting her know that she's required at the airlock to sign the paperwork to enter the Floating Palace.

Silas was curious about the planned orbit for the Pioneer and, as he was alone, commented audibly to Vix. "Would that be SOP for Drinax space control..? Hmm..."

The digital friend appeared holographically in it's IISS uniform and audibly responded in it's clipped speech, "Why ask me? You're going to run the sims anyway."

Its response removed him from his musings and he held eye contact with the hologram for a long moment, "Ah...um...yes... you're right." Of course Vix would preempt his actions through machine learning. It was the sass that kept his eyes open. Itching to get to the Palace, he distracted himself by plotting mutiple simulations of the coordinates prescribed by the Drinax guard until he was happy with a set of models that he felt covered all variables and would ensure the Pioneer was entirely safe, or if indeed he might recommend improvements for the Drinax traffic controller.

Task chain 6+ Astro check = Effect 9. 6+ Pilot check = Effect 17

Silas can see that this place in orbit will not be the most efficient and will use more fuel to maintain. It will keep the Pioneer in one space near the Floating Palace. Because of the excellent checks Silas can tell that this orbit will keep the Pioneer focused in one spot in particular. To the aft of the Floating Palace in full view of what Silas determines is something called the Scholars Tower. If he did his math right, and he is positive he did, anyone in that tower that looks out will be looking at the Lab Ship Pioneer slowly spinning in place right in front of them.

(Eleni)"Hello there! Glad to get this underway. She quickly signs off on the tablet " I look forward to visiting this Floating Palace. Looking over at Mikhel and Sultana, "So who wants to go pry the Captain out of her lab? with a light laugh.

"Seeing as how I have seniority, I nominate Dromah for the task. Not to mention that the Captain may need to be tranqued to get her out of there."

"I went through the options. Get the handsome guy with class and diplomacy to do it. Get the Scientist with the most experience with the individual, and the emotional connection. Or, the new ship's pet. So, it's the pet, by decree. Wish me luck." Mikhel enters the lift with a sigh.

"Wait!" Mikhel holds the door open. "Any chance I could take the pad down to the Captain, and bring it back? We could tap in a video call to the monitor, here."

(Guard)"I am not supposed to let it go. I would be happy to go with you though Sir. A chance for a tour of the ship, even just a brief one like that would be really interesting. The places this ship has seen. Starts to follow Mikhel down the corridor.

"Uuhh! Please." Mikhel holds out his hand palm towards the guard. "If I need to enter the Captain's lab, it will be under strict isolation protocols, and with specific clearances. I have only been allowed in recently, and that through stringent and lengthy indoctrination. Visits to the Captain's lab is something that won't happen on a casual basis. I would get thrown out the airlock, and you right behind me. For your safety, please remain here. I'll bring the Captain. Whether I see you on the Floating Palace later will have to be anticipated."

"While we wait, have there been a lot of new arrivals for the King's Party? Anybody famous or important that you're allowed to talk about?", asks Sultana, making conversation to fill the time.

(Guard)"I am not surprised; I know protocols can be a pain in the... "clears his throat I can wait here. Watches Mikhel walk off {without the data pad}, turns back to Sultana "It has been a busy day surprisingly. We had a diplomatic mission from Torpol arrive just a couple of hours before you did. They are pretty unusual, not sure why they are here. The only news I heard that others might not know is that Prince Harrick will be attending the ceremonies. He is usually off in the academic's tower or someplace like that. I saw that your ship already met with Ranchando. That was a good call on your part, he knows all the markets around can always seems to find just the right things that people want. If you have time you should visit the old hydroponic gardens. Not as grand as they used to be but they are spectacular of course. King Oleb is always making sure we get the best we can.

"Good, glad to hear good things about Ranchando, that he's as good as he presents himself. Any words of advice for newcomers to the Floating Palace? Do's or Don't's? Local taboos or traditions we should know about?"

Mikhel arrives at Doctor Solis' lab door and accesses the Comm panel. "Doctor. I profusely apologize for the interruption. The Customs Agents are requesting your presence in the Spoke Lobby. They were willing to come to the lab, and get an impromptu tour, but I dissuaded them. Would you want them to bring the pad to the lab door, or are you available to go to the Spoke?"

The door opens to show a slightly more harried Athena, taking off her lab coat, and pulling down the sleeve of her shirt to hide wrapped gauze. Thankfully, to what is likely a relief to Mikhel, she looks annoyed in general (probably an expression he knows by now) rather than annoyed specifically at him. She takes one last look in her lab, nods, and ushers Mikhel away, only walking with him once the door shuts and locks. "As I said, I was coming. The protocols when I do not expect to be in my lab for sometime get dicey. The stasis for...," Athena frowns, shakes her head, and continued, "But I expect my attention regrettably needs to be else where for now. The agents don't need a tour. Let's go."

"Again, I did try to minimize any interruption. In this case, it wasn't possible. Things will likely settle out after tomorrow. One could hope."

Athena gave a nod and followed Mikhel up the lift. Upon seeing the guard, she reached for the pad to sign, asking, "What else is needed?"

(Guard)"I am very glad you are here Captain Solis. When my sister heard you were coming she made sure I would get you to visit the Scholar's Tower. She is working on a project and when she heard you were coming with your collection of experts in every field Eleni hides a laugh "I had to make sure that I spoke with you to see if you were going to be staying so that she could speak with one of your experts on hydroponics, she thinks you can give some help to one of her... he pauses and straightens up "Sorry Captain got a little carried away being in the presence of a famous scientist. I know your stay at the magnificent Floating Palace will be an enjoyable one. Your docking space is secured and your crew has the coordinates for orbit for the Pioneer.

The two guards move back towards the Bold Jewel with the third at the airlock ready to proceed.

Short message to Captain Solis: "The orbit prescribed by the Drinaxians is very interesting. I ran sims and am confident that this orbit will keep the Pioneer in one particular location, to the aft of the Floating Palace in full view of the "Scholars Tower". It appears the tower and ship are intended to be in permanent visual contact. There will be some extra, largely negligible fuel costs, but the benefit is location to the Floating Palace. I assume it may be intended that the Tower and the Pioneer exchange knowledge or collaborate in some way, or simply that the Pioneer is receiving pride of place. Silas Out."

I am not surprised but it is good to know. I will undoubtedly spend a significant amount of my time at the Scholars Tower and it seems they expect that. Thank you for the information, Silas. Knowing how our arrival is being perceived can be advantageous to us.

Harison reach’s out to Floating Palace to see if there is accommodation available for the next few days, nothing fancy just clean and good value.

Harison discovers two things that peek his interest. 1 - There are no hotels, TAS lodgings, anything that would be a tourist type of place. This puzzled him so he did more research and found... 2 - The Scholars Tower is a primary source of revenue for the Floating Palace, and maybe Drinax overall? From Tuition Fees from visiting students. He stumbles upon this when a posting for 'looking for a roomate, solved!' appears in one of his searches.

Mikhel does a search for drinking establishments on the Floating Palace.

Mihkel Dromah: [SKILL] Electronics (2D+2) (vs Difficulty 6) [2d6+2 = 10]
[ +4 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] 5 Minutes checking. (This assumes there is an 'Internet' available on Drinax?)

This is to find a 'meeting place' for people who would like a moment or two together.

To Silas Lane Just wondering if you were still on for out meeting with the mysterious Ranchando? Harison Dawn.

To Harison: Affirmative. I'm itching to get aboard the Floating Palace and meet with any whom aren't my current crew... Kidding of course. When will we meet Ranchando?

To the crew of the Pioneer
To any interested parties, I am organising the Voyager to leave here at 16:00 to go to the Floating Palace. This would be a great time to do some exploring as I hear the city is a splendour in the sky. I am not sure what time I will be returning but we can keep in contact through coms so when we all have a better idea when we’re finished, we can make a plan for returning.
Harison Dawn.

(Eleni)"So which ship are we taking to the Palace? The Voyager? Pride of the Pioneer, been through lots of adventures. Or the Surakasa, a proper Noble's show off playboy toy?Grins at Sultana and Harison

"We can take both, we have enough pilots. We may need to if any of the crew are intending or allowed to go."

"Someone will be needed for the bridge watch, but if that isn't me, I'd like an opportunity to check out whatever medical organization might exist. It may be that tomorrow would be better for that particular inquiry, considering the local time."

(Following over comms, Silas responds to the general chatter on their private channel) Well, the Voyager has been checked, is warmed up and mobile, as am I. Seeking permission to take one party aboard and make landfall... ahem... grav-palace-fall?!

With a look at Eleni, Athena replies (and includes Silas on comms), "Those of us heading to the Scholars Tower need to make the right first impression so clearly we'll take the Voyager. I'll be in the first party". After sending a brief message out to see which other scientist want to visit the Scholars Tower immediately, and who else is available for bridge watch, she pauses and turns to Sultana. "Sherris can go with the Surakasa and whatever destination you plan. She has a brilliant mind but the first impressions she makes are... not what we need at this time for this specific place."

Sultana smiles. "Of course. The Party Boat and the Boring Adult Boat. Makes sense to me."

In the meantime, Athena searches if she knows anyone at the tower and reaches out to let them know she is planning to visit.

Harison heads down to the Party Boat To get a good seat while he waits for the others and has a chat with whoever is there all ready.

Is there someone, other than Mikhel, to take the evening Bridge Watch? If so, Mikhel will pilot the Adult Boat. Note, that the above unspoken "Bar Search" will have to be conducted on-site, as there wasn't a result from the online search.

Correct on no results from the online search, which is puzzling but seems in line with the incomplete information you have been getting from the other searches as well.

Yes there are always the misc un-named researchers who can handle the Pioneer when your Travellers are not available. They are serviceable sophonts but will not do innovative or surprising things.

Somehow, with people moving about, heading for two different shuttles, Mikhel attempts to intercept the Captain/Doctor. Also, because he is heading out of the Pioneer, he has his portable Medikit and MediScanner. Mikhel is very concerned about the "wrapped gauze" on the Doctor's forearm.

After a short shuffling Silas, Athena, Mikhel, Sherris, and Eleni board the Voyager to head towards the Floating Palace. Sultana, Harison, and Hernandez take the Suraksha and follow along beside.

{during the short flight Mikhel can tend to Athena}

Mikhel approaches Doctor Solis and in a low voice, says, "Doctor, would you let me attend you? I noticed something when you departed the lab, and wonder if there is anything you might like me to do to assist. One-handed dressings can be difficult, if not annoying. I have some smart bandages that look like skin, and will apply medication over time. Much better than gauze for meetings."

With a small sigh, Athena held out her arm. Given her skills with basic first aid from field work, it's not the worst wrapping, but it could easily be better. "Some specimen do not like entering stasis. I have had worse, but perhaps you have a point, especially given the importance of these upcoming meetings."

Using his body as much as possible to conseal his work from other passengers, Mikhel treats the injury quickly and efficiently. Once uncovered, Mikhel sprays analgesic and antiseptic on the damaged limb. He examines for any need of steri-strips or something more agressive, applying medical materials as necessary. Then, Mikhel applies the liquid skin, tailoring it with metabolic enhancers to speed healing, and some slow-acting anesthetics, as well as matching the skin tone and colour. He gives the injury a last look, examining the treatment for concealment, and it is much better than a gauze wrapping.

Depending on how nasty the wound actually is, Mikhel will note the need for follow-on treatment. If he deems it prudent, Mikhel provides some tablets to Athena surreptitiously. "Please come see me tomorrow? I'd like to check for any sign of infection or reaction to treatment. Come see me immediately, if you are in any way uncomfortable or concerned."

If a Medic roll is necessary, this is it:

Mihkel Dromah: [SKILL] Medic (2D+4) (vs Difficulty ?) [2d6+4+2 = 15]
[ +9 Effect vs Routine] [Exceptional SUCCESS] 3 Minutes.

DM+2 for TL12 MediKit. This assumes a superficial injury not damaging muscle or tendons. Optional additional DM+1 for Mediscanner, but it was not used.

As Mikhel packs up his kit, he says in a low voice, "May I say that I'm impressed with your pain tolerance?" Looking Athena directly in the eyes, "I won't be playing poker with you any time in the future."

Athena gives a small, amused snort. "Field work is not for the faint-hearted. If one cannot handle a minor bite such as this, they are not suitable for the job. I'll be sure to have you nearby to point that out next time I deal with the boring data scientist who never leave their office." Athena takes her arm back, moves it a bit, and pulls the sleeve of her blouse back down. "Thank you, Doctor. If I have a moment tomorrow, as unsure as I am as to what opportunity awaits to distract me, I'll be sure to let you check it.

Throughout the treatment, Mikhel will not waste time, nor words, but work quickly and efficiently. However, Mikhel will study and note everything about length, depth, and width of the injury. Was the damage by sharp implements or dull. One swipe or bite, and how many claws/teeth, or beak? All this will be registered, but nothing said.

A brief radio exchange has the Voyager sliding into a berth between what is obviously the Royal Ship of Drinax and at the other end of the landing platform the Ship of Unity that the group knows came from Torpol. There is plenty of room on the landing platform for both the Voyager and the Suraksha to maneuver and land but it will be a Difficult piloting roll to lift off for only one of them if you are in a hurry.

1104-364 15:56 - Arrive at Drinax

As the Voyager and the Suraksha settle in and power down to landing status two of the Royal Hawk Warriors glide down from above onto the platform. The Hawk Warriors are tall strong male humans wearing armor and grav belts with large gold metal wings that seem to be ceremonial coming up out of the back of their armor. Each has a ceremonial sword at their waist and a shoulder slung laser rifle.

They alight just in front of the doors leading off the platform and wait for your groups to disembark.

"Last stop, all disembark now for the Floating Palace. Mind your step, it's a long way down." Sultana is the first one off the Suraksha, to make sure everything is in order with his paperwork and any last minute Customs requirements.

"Good afternoon. Sir Lt Sultana and the Suraksha, from the Pioneer. Any rules or restrictions we should be aware of while we're here? Also, I apologize, I forgot to ask earlier. What sidearms, if any, are permitted at the Palace. I have both a firearm and a blade, semi-ceremonial, onboard, in case either are needed for local customs."

Silas was all eyes as he approached the Floating Palace, seeking out details of interest. He dutifully brought the "adult ship" down on the docks, being careful to follow all proper protocol and ceremony for the conceit of his passengers before announcing, "Sophonts, we have landed at the Floating Palace of Drinax. Please follow the welcome party's instructions and enjoy your time here. Pilot Lane out." he turned and grinned at the science contingent and waited for them to leave before ensuring the Voyager was powered down and secure.

"Good piloting, Pilot," remarked Athena giving him a small smile.

1104-364 16:00

Crockett aboard UNITY hailing Mikhel aboard Pioneer: How should we meet up on New Year's Day?

1104-364 17:35

%MIKHEL ABOARD LABSHIP PIONEER cc. Bridge crew of Pioneer By my request I have received following info from Bridge Crew of "THE UNITY" regarding vessel traffic in sector 

                     Ship of Unity - at the Royal Docks, details of the ship withheld
                     King's Royal Yacht - at the Royal Docks, details of the ship withheld
                     Voyager, Pinnace from the Pioneer - at the Royal Docks, full details
                     Suraksha, Ships Boat, owned by Sultana - at the Royal Docks, full details
                     A Bold Jewel, Systems Defense Boat - traversing the space from Drinax to the 100D jump point, details of ship witheld
                     Pioneer - in synchronized orbit to the Floating Palace - full details
                     There is no indication of any ships docked at the Floating Palace on the public landing pad.

...Wondering if this matches info from sensors aboard "THE PIONEER".... seems awfully quiet other than our combined special visitors.... Please confirm receipt and respond. Crockett out

Floating Palace

Calendar

1104-363 -- 1104-364 -- 1104-365

Timing of events
13:38 - Arrival of Ship of Unity at Floating Palace
15:56 - Arrival of Pioneer at Floating Palace
17:00 - Tour of the Scholar's Tower
17:30 - Meeting at Bazaar
18:00 - Tour of the Art Gallery

1104-364 16:00 - Arrive at Drinax

As the Voyager and the Suraksha settle in and power down to landing status two of the Royal Hawk Warriors glide down from above onto the platform. The Hawk Warriors are tall strong male humans wearing armor and grav belts with large gold metal wings that seem to be ceremonial coming up out of the back of their armor. Each has a ceremonial sword at their waist and a shoulder slung laser rifle.

They alight just in front of the doors leading off the platform and wait for your groups to disembark.

Sultana is the first one off the Suraksha, to make sure everything is in order with his paperwork and any last minute Customs requirements. He is wearing a suit in shades of blue, cut similar to a Naval uniform, but more stylish, as worn in the County of Askigaak. His Pioneer badge is pinned in place.

"Good afternoon. Sir Lt Sultana and the Suraksha, from the Pioneer. Any rules or restrictions we should be aware of while we're here? Also, I apologize, I forgot to ask earlier. What sidearms, if any, are permitted at the Palace. I have both a firearm and a blade, semi-ceremonial, onboard, in case either are needed for local customs."

(Hawk Warrior)"Welcome Sir Lieutenant Gopal Sultana to the magnificent Floating Palace, gem of the Kingdom of Drinax. Your status has been registered with the Royal Guards, there should be no incidents for you to be concerned. Your administrative assistant can handle any other arrangements. We will arrange with them the appropriate escort for your audience with King Oleb XVI on the First.

"Excellent, thank you. I just wanted to confirm the local customs beforehand." Sultana moves off to one side to wait for the rest of his passengers to alight.

His eyes go to the next off the Suraksha and there is a subtle signal of more interest

(Hawk Warrior)"It is very generous of you to visit the Floating Palace Baron Harold Hernández. Your culinary reputation is well known here in the Kingdom. Your four best selling, (Hernandez)" five.. (Hawk Warrior)".. Five, certainly your treatises on spice control are known across the sector and beyond I am certain. I will update our library with your latest publication. If you would allow me to download the information from your records, perhaps on the Pioneer?

(Hernandez)"I will consult with Captain Solis to see which of the working titles we can also include as a pre-published work for you." The Guard's eyes grow just a bit wide and greedy.

Turning to the airlock for the third passenger both of the guards come to even higher tension.

(Hawk Warrior)"Welcome Admiral Harison Dawn. It is an honor to have you spend time on the Floating Palace. We will be honored to escort you as you need. Unfortunately, I am certain it was a miscommunication in the hurried unexpected arrival your administrative assistant did not contact us for your accommodations. We will provide an office for you immediately and we are working on arranging a suite. If we can have that contact information we will work with them to correct these errors."

Harison leaves his duffel bag with his belongs and gun just at the entrance to the Surakasa. He then steps of the Surakasa in his normal closes like a tourist with his com devise in hand taking pictures of the area and the Hawk guards. "Thank you for such a majestic welcome very impressive, truly this is a city of great beauty and wonders." He then send his contact information over via his coms. "Thanks so much for rectifying that over sight you can contact me directly with the details I just gave you there. Could you have some one bring my bag from the ship there when it’s sorted and store my side arm in your lock up too please. Now that we have that all sorted again thank you For that, would you be so kind as to point me to the Bazaar it is in the first ring I believe?"

(Hawk Warrior)"Admiral Dawn, if you will allow me the pleasure of providing you with a dedicated guide to the Magnificent Bazaar I can arrange that in short order for you.

"No need for a guide just show me in the general direction and I’ll find my way. I don’t want to be waiting around for some one to show up. Thanks for the offer but no thank you."

He nods to the other guard to start communicating the request as he looks up. "Welcome guests, we expect you to have an excellent experience here at the Floating Palace"%white he pauses as Silas appears on the ramp behind Athena and Mikhel, Looks over at Harison and straightens up again.

Once the last of his passengers had disembarked from the Suraksha, Sir Lt Sultana hit the controls to close and lock the hatch to the ship. He then stands off to one side to observe the arrival and greetings given to the passengers of the Voyager.

(Hawk Warrior)"Admiral Dawn, it is not a problem. Here is Sir Thornonton III to help guide you.

(Sir Thornonton)"Admiral Dawn, it is a pleasure to have you here at the Floating Palace. Follow me and I can take you to your office. He picks up Harison's bags and leads the way off of the landing platform

"Thank you Sir Thornoton lead the way." Harison follows along, making sure to take notes of where they go and how they got there.

Harison is lead down a wide corridor that opens into what looks to be a wide passageway and turns left, (Thornoton)"We go towards the bow here, do mind your step" As he lifts the bags a bit higher to avoid a pile of crates. The passageway seems that it has been partially filled with crates and packages along the walls, leaving a path down the middle that two people can almost easily move abreast in. After a few turns the scenery changes. (Thornoton)"This is the Diplomatic section. Your office will be down this way. He leads Harison around several twists and corners to find an office about one third the size of his stateroom on the Pioneer, with one corner of the office piled high with boxes. (Thornoton)"I will leave these here for you Admiral. setting the bags down in the opposite corner. (Thornoton)"Do you have any appointments you need me to guide you to?"

"Again thank you Sir Thornoton no I should be all good now might head out and stretch my legs been a long week in space."

"After giving herself a quick check, making sure wrinkles and such were smooth, dressed as one would expect of an academic with blouse and black pants, short heels, badges clear to indicate position, she stepped out to lead the party to their greeters. "Captain Athena Solis, Lead Scientist for the Pioneer."

Mikhel will keep to the rear of the party, and let others lead. His is his usual appearance of shabby, but clean. Just a hard-working crewman. He does carry the satchel with the Interplanetary symbol of Medicine, the Red Crystal.

Silas followed Captain Solis and the scientists, smiling and ushering the party from the Voyager as appropriate. Although he demured, his 198cm height, wild shock of dark hair, olive skin and golden eyes made him conspicuous. The ex-Scout considered himself abreast of fashions (although of course fashions differ greatly across the vastness of space) and dressed in a slim fitting all-in-one of navy blue with grey detail piping and a deepest blue with silver trim duster coat over the top. His accoutrements included an IISS utility belt, cutlass and laser pistol on opposite hips, sash bag with tablet as well as the trademark tinted HUD glasses.

(Hawk Warrior)"Silas Lane? We are honored to have such a distinguished member of the Imperial Scout Service here to explore the Amazing Floating Palace. I find that my depts of astonishment are being strained today. He glances over at Sultana, Harison, and Hernandez "I am looking forward to assisting you to enjoy your stay here on the Floating Palace. This will be a very enjoyable New Year's event with such foreign nobility in attendance, along with the diplomatic envoys from Torpol. nodding to the Ship of Unity on the landing pad on the other side of the Voyager and Shurkasa. I will settle with the rest of your landing party and then escort you to..... He pauses as he is scanning the data pad that has updated with the identities of the remaining people.

(Hawk Warrior)"I... there seems to be a mistake? YOU? are Captain Athena Solis of the Lab Ship Pioneer? The Captain Solis who fought at Esalin in the Fourth Frontier War? The Captain Solis who..."He straightens up "I am pleased to welcome you and ... " another pause as he consults again to be certain "and Mikhel Dromah, chief medic onboard the Pioneer. Both of you are on my list as special envoy guests to King Oleb, may his reign be unending, and are to be afforded requests as we can accommodate.

Mikhel gives the Hawk Warrior a Marine Handsign, recognizing the individual's military position, and acknowledging the welcome. Mikhel stays back, letting the Captain deal with details. Mikhel takes in the surroundings, noting any obvious signs of defense or surveillance. He is also looking at the condition of the area and the level of maintenance. Any sign of emergency equipment or first responder facilities is also of interest.

Mikhel cannot spot any surveillance systems in the area. There are places they should be but the gear has been taken down. There are standard safety gear boxes he spots after a moment of looking. Rather than being the standard white with red they are gold with red images of the double eagle of Drinax on them. They almost blend in with the rest of the decor.

He looks at the ramp to see one final person exiting and looks almost relieved as he consults his data pad.

(Hawk Warrior)"I welcome you Veronica Sherris to the Magnificent Floating Palace. I am certain that your stay with us will be memorable. Captain Solis will have all the details for her crew available to you shortly. Feel free to relax in the Voyager and I am certain we will be able to respond to any requests you have momentarily.

It sounds like Sherris will keep you company for now unless you wish to visit an... art gallery? You are not holding down the Voyager to prevent me from returning to the lab, correct? Because if so, it is working well.

After not getting a reply after a few minutes, Athena offered a quick excuse, claiming to have left something in Voyager to see what was going on with Eleni.

(Eleni)"I am just fine no worries. I am scheming with Sherris, and we will be ready to return back to the Ship when you are ready.

1104-364-16:30 - Continuing the extended welcome committee

(Hawk Warrior)"Esteemed guests, I have notes that several of you are scheduled for a tour of the Art Gallery at 18:00. It is right next door to the Bazaar that Admiral Dawn will be visiting soon. If you can be most gracious and grant us a moment of time we will work on appropriate arrangements for you.

Mikhel takes the opportunity to do a quick confirmation check of his data. It is extremely strange but there are no independent bars or hostels, hotels, lodging, anything normally associated with a starport or city available or listed in the data directories he has access to. There does not seem to be a place to book a night to sleep, or a place to eat a meal.

Mikhel's eyebrows go up. Well. Actually, he shouldn't be surprised. The Floating Palace is a busted society, based on available data. In two hundred years, the surviving population of the planet (Floating Palace only, who knows what, if any, population is on the surface) has supposedly doubled? With no expansion of space. So, what may have been in existence two hundred years ago, in a functional facility, is not likely around now. The offer of accommodations was another thing to raise eyebrows. Now, the missing surveillance gear was a quandry. Not sure what to make of that. Enough people everywhere, there is no privacy, therefore everything is under 24-hour surveillance? Could very well be. So, finding a quiet place for a tête-à-tête could be an impossibility.

Athena returned to the warriors, asking, "Is it possible to get an escort to the Scholar's Tower or is this... art gallery visit one arranged for all the guests? I missed a memo regarding its importance."

(Hawk Warrior)"Captain Solis, I will bring a guide from the Scholar's Tower for you shortly. The tour of the Art Gallery is on my list of events that we were told to clear the space for the King's Guests by Ranchando. King Oleb often selects one of his advisors to entertain guests. If you do not want to be part of that entertainment I can send along your regrets."

Although clearly a bit disappointed, Athena replied, "Ah. No, if it was previously scheduled, it would be rude to ignore. I can see the gallery. If it possible to see the tower as well today, that would be good but if not, it is only courteous to participate in the events planned by the host."

(Hawk Warrior)"I would be pleased to escort you to the Scholar's Tower on the way to the Art Gallery if you would like Captain Solis. It will be a bit out of the way but I can also show you and your guests the Bazaar along the way. If you have any meetings at the Tower we can arrange the timing for you there."

(Hawk Warrior)"For our other guests, Sir Sultana, Medic Dromah, Mr Lane, Baron Hernández. Would you like to join us on that detour?

"The opportunity to learn more about the Floating Palace would be greatly appreciated. Anything about your history and especially about the resilient people who keep the Drinaxian culture alive is something of which I am very interested. My particular focus is medicine and the care of people, if that assists you in guiding us.

"I'm happy to see any of the detours you want to take us on. Whenever I visit a new planet, I like to see the different things each has to offer."

1104-364-17:00 - Ambassador's Wing

Harison takes a moment after being left alone to look around the office he has been given. There is a chair, desk, data access, and perhaps room to squeeze in a food dispenser if there was one. There is no sign that there has been anything like that in this room in recent times. Harison gets a feeling that this might be all. There has been no mention of sleeping quarters, food delivery, or any of the various sundry things he expected.

To Silas Lane.
Mr Lane hope you have settled in ok I am about to head out to the Bazaar if you would care to meet me there before you go see our old friend?
Harison Dawn

Harison headed out of the office made sure it was locked up and made his way to the bazaar making sure to take note of the route he has taken.

Silas remained quiet throughout the ceremonial greetings, politely nodding and acknowledging the courteous Hawk Guards whilst taking mental notes of everything he saw and heard, like an apprentice on his first day in the Shipyard. He considered the options presented and thought to himself that the Art Gallery by way of the Bazaar sounded like his preferred first day's sight-seeing. He was mulling over this and greedily eyeing the Hawk Guard's grav belt when his communicator pinged inaudibly through his HUD induction. It was Harison. He subvocalised a response via Vix and sent it to the Admiral.

To Harison Dawn.
Hello Admiral. Settling currently incomplete, ha ha. I have a guide to the bazaar if you'd like to join us? Two heads are better than one to try to understand this most unusual place. Sending you my coords.
Silas

To Silas Lane.
Thank you for the invite I am trying to avoid the use of a guide as I don’t want them known who I am meeting and where I’m gone. I know it’s a little paranoid, but I don’t know who they answer too.
Harison Dawn

To Harison Dawn.
Understood. I'll leave my guide and join you.
Silas

Tour of Scholar's Tower

(Hawk Warrior)"Baron Harold Hernández, Sir Lieutenant Gopal Sultana, Captain Solis, and Medic Dromah. Follow me and I will escort you personally along to your appointment. The Scholar's Tower is to the after of the Magnificent Floating Palace. It is a repository of the finest knowledge that remains from the Sindalian Empire. His Majesty King Oleb XVI has done brilliant work at maintaining the Scholar's Tower as the bastion of learning throughout the Trojan Reach sector.

As he leads you proudly through a wide empty corridor out of the Royal Docks and around through the maintenance? repair? areas he gestures to the left, "The Bazaar is that way, we will come back to it by a different route" He continues down a long wide corridor that Sultana and Mikhel suspect is the outer wall of the Floating Palace. Turning to the left he brings you through what might be an art exhibition on classical textiles that is draped over several other statues? maybe? He moves confidently and straightforward through the corner of the art gallery and brings you to the entrance to the Scholar's Tower.

Sultana rolls an 11 on Art to observe the tapestries and/or hidden statues as they pass.

Without pausing and taking time Sultana cannot be certain but at least two of the tapestries he sees draped across statues look to be forming walls to create a small private space. The tapestries themselves are brightly colored with what he thinks are Sindilarian themes. A guess is they are real antique artifacts being used in an unusual way.

There are several dormitories that ring the area of the Tower. As you make your way past them, several students? professors? scientists? pause to watch your group enter the grounds.

Mikhel is doing the visual scans of the walk. Are the surveillance points all stripped? Are the people healthy and happy? Gaunt, with bone structures obvious, good skin condition and color, or plump? Normally curious looks from the locals towards the tourists, or suspicious glances/stares? Any and all info is noted and categorized. Amongst this, Mikhel is also looking at anything that shows the culture and quality of Drinax to best advantage. Mikhel is attempting to formulate ideas on how to promote the benefits of Drinaxian leadership in a confederation, as opposed to subjugation by an imperial overlord, while being preyed upon by a bunch of pirates with letters of mark.

How are people doing on the Floating Palace (general appearance).

Mihkel Dromah: [SKILL] Medic (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 6) [2d6+4 = 12]
[ +6 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] 20 Minutes checking. (As the tour walks around the palace)

Survey of people's reactions/attitude to strangers on the Floating Palace.

Mihkel Dromah: [SKILL] Streetwise (2D+3) (vs Difficulty 6) [2d6+3 = 11]
[ +5 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] 20 Minutes checking. (As the tour walks around the palace)

Tactical Assessment of Defences on the Floating Palace.

Mihkel Dromah: [SKILL] Tactics (military) (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 6) [2d6+4 = 10]
[ +4 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] 20 Minutes checking. (As the tour walks around the palace)

Mikhel's impressions as he walks along with the tour is that the residents of the Floating Palace are... resigned. They are happy enough, and he can hear "His Majesty will find a way", but there are far too many people living in tight quarters. There does not seem to be open discontent, no one seems to express complaints of being suppressed, more of just not quite enough to be really happy. Mikhel does not spot any missing cameras or security gear, but it is not overtly present. Just standard normal gear as expected.

Thoughts run through Mikhel's head: OK. King 'Oaf' may be a buffoon. But, the Aslan did a number on these people. The Aslan didn't cut the head off the snake. They cut the body off. There was no honour in this. How badly did the Drinaxians piss off the Aslan, that honourable warriors did this? Where is khoafteirleao in any of this? This planet was stomped into ruin. No Aslan would want this planet now, and they did this to send a message. "We don't respect you, we don't need to treat you with honour, and we don't even want your land." What did Drinax do? Mikhel considers the vacuum of his knowledge concerning the Aslan, and sees the need for information. Lots of it.

Sometime. During the tour, as the group moves about, Mikhel will take advantage of a quiet moment to step next to the second warrior, if he is haning back and letting the other lead the tour.
"Warrior Jarxal, are you and your fellow warrior volunteers, or voluntolds, for this dog and pony show?"

(Hawk Warrior Jarxal)"This is a treat Medic Dromah. Getting to meet celebrities like you, the Captain, Admiral Harison, Silas Lane, even a chance to meet Sir Sultana. We do not get many off world people here who have done something that brings attention to themselves like Baron Hernández. He is a legend in the culinary arts. Of course you would be invited by His Majesty to visit and bring your knowledge here. I wonder what new things he will create now after he visits the Scholar's Tower."

"Good to know this isn't a burden, or a necessary evil, Warrior. I don't claim any particular fame, unlike the others on the Pioneer. However, I am here on an invitation, and would like to get a feel for the landscape. Any worthy warrior likes to know the terrain he may have to fight on. So, who is the Strategist for Drinax? Who is in charge of force projection? The mind advising the King? Would it be possible to speak to that person sometime before the big event on New Year's Day? On the subject of possible conflicts or collaborations, do you have any rumours or opinions on what might be ahead for Drinax?"

(Hawk Warrior Jarxal)"You sound like you are already part of the Palace Intrigue Medic Dromah. His majesty King Oleb XVI, long may he reign, keeps his own council. He assigns tasks to those he favors, those who do well stay to do more tasks. Some stay near His Majesty in the hopes of being asked to do those favors. The Princess has His Majesty's ear as of late, but I will say that the Court is buzzing over the rumor that the Prince will be attending the events for New Years. he glances around "I have heard that there is a special guest too, no one knows who they are. Are you that guest?"

"As I mentioned before, I don't see myself as being special. My vocation is healing, saving lives, which isn't very glamorous. And usually involves tragedy." He gave Warrior a sad look. "I hope never to be part of Palace Intrigue. This meeting I am to attend may draw me in like a black hole, despite my desires. Thank you for your insight. I may want to speak with the Princess, if you think she is bending the King's ear."

"How would one cross the path of one of the Princess' Ladies in Waiting, or her Personal Assistant."

(Hawk Warrior Jarxal)"Medic Dromah, I can see you are not part of the Palace Intrigue now. Princess Rao is not one for ladies taking care of her. She does have a tendency to be very active at Court then be scarce for weeks. The Princess is very independent, ever since she was named the Heir she has spent time all over the Floating Palace and even out into the outer planets learning as much as she can. She has even taken trips to Asim as part of her explorations. Now that Prince Harrick has returned to Court people are abuzz with thoughts."

Only half listening, Athena is trying to get a gauge on what kind of research may be going on in the Scholar's Town and why type of individuals are here.

[SKILL] Investigate (2D+3) (vs Difficulty 6) = 15 Exceptional Success

[SKILL] Science (2D+3) (vs Difficulty 6) = 8 Average Success

Athena cannot tell the details of of the research but three things stand out to her. One is that something that needs venting to the outside is happening in the tower, another is that there are many levels to the building that seem to extend down below the surface she is walking on that seems to be the ground floor for the Palace. Finally she notices that there are many types of sophonts here studying, interacting with each other, engaged in animated discussions. Female Aslan, a group of Bewaps, human females of what seems to be many different systems, and many young men in all sorts of dress. There does seem to be a particular scholarly dress with adornments to indicate some sort of structure.

As he follows the Hawk Warrior around, absorbing all the details he's able to, not knowing what might be important. At a lull in the conversation, he asks the Warrior, "What is the King's favorite subject or branch of study in the Scholar's Tower? What is he most interested in? Same question for you, is there anything in there that you're interested in?"

As your Royal Hawk Warrior guide turns from the base of the Scholar's Tower and leads you out through a different gate he points to the right and left of the open clean corridor in front of you. (Hawk Warrior Jarxal)"To the right here are the Royal Guard Barracks, we have our families with us, it does help to keep everyone more close knit. To the left there are the Royal Apartments. Only the King and his family have places there. He gestures directly ahead, (Hawk Warrior Jarxal)"And that is the entrance to the Royal Court, where your meeting with His Majesty will be on the first."

Turning to Sultana, (Hawk Warrior Jarxal)"His Royal Highness, King Oleb XVI, long may he reign, does not show a keen interest in the activities in the Scholar's Tower. He is grateful of course for all their work at saving Prince Harrick. I am most interested in the Scholar's work on food. When I was young we would have good steaks every week, then as time went on we had them less and less. I hear that the scholars are working to rebuild Asim's produce, I hope that gives us more variety. Of course I am very excited by having Baron Harold Hernández here for the celebrations. Maybe he is the rumored special guest?"

"Hydroponics, food chemistry, and I assume to some degree agriculture science as they all go hand in hand. You have quite a variety of sophonts studying here. What saving did Prince Harrick require? Unless it was starvation, with what I see and what you've mention, one must extrapolate that there are other disciplines studied here. Are the different dress indications of their studies or their progress in their education? I certainly would like to explore the tower more in our time here if you can set that up."

(Hawk Warrior Jarxal)"I will pass along your request for tomorrow. Is there a time that you would like Captain?"

Your guide leads you down an crowded corridor, weaving a bit through, making space for your group as needed. As you turn a corner your personal radios light up with messages.

"I have a meeting in the morning. Perhaps a visit before or after lunch would be most appropriate," replied Athena after a quick look at her messages. She noted the lack of any information about the Prince. A question best saved for another, possibly Ranchardo, one of the scholars, or if rumors were true of his visits to the tower, the Prince himself.

1104-364-17:30 - Radio Personal Communications

Captain Athena Solis, this is Administrative Aide Dar with a request from Provost Shala of Torpol, aboard the Ship of Unity. Provost Shala would like to host you for a breakfast meeting onboard the Ship of Unity at 08:00 tomorrow morning. Please acknowledge if this is a good time for you. Provost Shala has a query about your previous work in other systems prior to entering the Reach. I await your reply. Unity out.

Captain Solis to Administrative Aide Dar. Request acknowledged and accepted.

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSV Pioneer
O Grp postponed. RVP TBD.

To M.M.Dromah, Pioneer Message received....will check code book

To Pioneer Crew and Guests,
Please note that there is no expectation of privacy or concealment of movement within the Floating Palace.
The lack of surveillance equipment is an illusion of convenience. There are people everywhere, and staff not necessarily in view at all times. Door locks are a fiction of courtesy, and not to be depended upon to keep things safe or unexamined.
Caution is advised.
M. Dromah
Pioneer Health and Safety Officer

1104-364 17:35

To: MIKHEL ABOARD LABSHIP PIONEER, cc: Bridge crew of PIONEER
By my request I have received following info from Bridge Crew of "THE UNITY" regarding vessel traffic in sector:

-Ship of Unity - at the Royal Docks, details of the ship withheld
-King's Royal Yacht - at the Royal Docks, details of the ship withheld
-Voyager, Pinnace from the Pioneer - at the Royal Docks, full details
-Suraksha, Ships Boat, owned by Sultana - at the Royal Docks, full details
-A Bold Jewel, Systems Defense Boat - traversing the space from Drinax to the 100D jump point, details of ship withheld
-Pioneer - in synchronized orbit to the Floating Palace - full details
There is no indication of any ships docked at the Floating Palace on the public landing pad.
...Wondering if this matches info from sensors aboard "THE PIONEER".... seems awfully quiet other than our combined special visitors...

Please confirm receipt and respond.

Crockett out

As Your guide leads you down the crowded corridor you spot Harison and Silar up ahead as they go to your left through a doorway into the Bazaar. (Hawk Warrior Jarxal)"This is the famous Bazaar of the Floating Palace. Medic Dromah, you asked who has the ear of his Majesty King Oleb XVI, long may he reign. Many at the Court would say that Ranchando is the easiest to speak with. For someone not from Drinax he has a good understanding of how the Floating Palace should properly operate. Shall we go in? We can continue our tour you will meet him at the Art Gallery in a half hour or you can meet him here."

"Warrior Jarxal. Is Ranchando part of the Court? Does he have status with the King? Or, perhaps he moves beneath the surface, and influences things with discretion?" Mikhel looks at the other Pioneer Crew in his group. "I will follow the Captain's lead on this."

"While I dislike interrupting meetings, but it may set a bad precedent to walk by without a short word. A quick greeting, and then we can let our crew continue their meeting. Any other words we can save for the Art Gallery."

(Hawk Warrior Jarxal)"Medic Dromah, Ranchando is not an official member of the Royal Court, he was not born on the Floating Palace. He has performed many duties to His Majesty and was awarded the spot here to open a Bazaar to facilitate his trading with Countess Tollar. He also works closely with the Baroness of Algra-reev on Asim for the transport of their goods here. Captain Solis when you are meeting with him at the Art Gallery he can perhaps arrange who to speak with at the Scholar's Tower."As the group turns into the corridor leading into the Bazaar for a quick hello

Meeting at Bazaar

Harison starts back towards the Bazaar. After some struggles to get past blocked passages, and circling around a section of gardens that suddenly appear he manages to reach a wide corridor that he recognizes. As Harison walks down the corridor he spots Silas near the entrance to what looks to be a marketplace. There is a bustle of people going in and out carrying bags of food? That seems to not be right as he spots someone carrying in a statue.

Silas has been waiting for Harison for a few moments and can tell him that there is an almost never ending stream of people coming and going through this entrance.

As soon as Harison sees Silas he heads over to him and says "Good day to you, Mr. Lane. This is an interesting place to say the least shall we head off and see can we find our friends Shop? How has your visit been so far? Anything interesting. I was given an office that looks like it could’ve been a closet. I was very impressed they fit a desk in there"

"And to you, Mr. Dawn." Silas supressed calling Harison "Admiral". "Yes, let's continue... Shame about the office." As they walked Silas shared his impressions with Harison and endeavoured to learn what the Drinaxians were transporting in their bags.

Silas will check Recon unskilled Rolled 5+6-1 =10 Effect 2

"Oh, it’s an honour that they even found any space for me. But these days I don’t have much use for an office, must be a perceived notion from my last position as an admiral that I need one. It is quite saddening that space here is on short supply and that they are all crammed in like cattle."

"Agreed. I didn't come all this way to live like a Reginan." Silas waved an expansive hand at the dark space and stars beyond the "Palace" expressing his wistfulness for the remote adventure of the Tlaiowaha subsector. "Anyway, you're the lucky one. I might be sleeping in the street tonight! Or back on the Voyager..." He thought that sounded a little lacking in the luxury he had imagined the palace might yield to them. "Perhaps friend Ranchando might help..." he conspired with a wink to the Admiral.

Harison gives a laugh back" That he might. If not my office has a floor and a desk we can flip a coin to see who get the desk."

Harison and Silas enter the Bazaar just behind a small family group. A woman with two children, carrying an empty bag. As the two of them follow the family in they spot Ranchando standing near an intersection of aisles of goods. He nods to Harison and Silas, then smile broadly at the family as they approach.

(Ranchando)"Countess Abigail, how nice to see you this evening. I do hope the family is well? He smiles down at the two children "What brings you out today to grace this humble establishment with your presence?

(Abigail)"Ranchando, always one with a warm smile and a greeting for everyone. I do believe you have memorized every family living here in the Palace. We are lucky that his Majesty has such observant members of his court. I do have a small query for you, "she glances around and spots Silas and Harison. She smiles, almost flirting with Harison. Then she gives a small toss of her hair and turns back to Ranchando. "I would speak with you about an offer I have for you." Ranchando smiles in return, nods again to Silas and Harison to indicate he will be right with them, and then he leads the Countess off down an aisle. The two children stay there, looking around. One who looks slightly younger, a girl maybe 12, looks up at Harison and smiles. "You are pretty. Are you new to the Palace?"

Harison Drops down to one knee to be at the same hight as the child and gives her a smile. "Why thank you M'lady for such a compliment it means a lot coming from some one as pretty as you. "He gives her a bow and then continues on. "I can also see you are very observant too M'lady as yes I am new here in fact it’s my first day. This is my good friend Mr. Silas Lane and my name is Harison Dawn former Admiral of the Imperial Navy at your service. And who do I have the honour of addressing?"

(Dilmah)"I am Princess Dilmah" (slightly older boy)"You are not a Princess, you can't just go telling people you are because you want to be one" (Dilmah)"I can be a Princess if I want. I can be smart. Just because you are not smart does not mean you cannot be a Prince. You are strong at least"

"Well it must me my lucky day I am so honoured to meet a princess and on my first day Dilmah. But does that mean your brother is a big strong Prince."

(Dilmah)"Thank you Admiral" she says primly "This is my brother Clengah he nods " He is strong, and I guess he is smart too. Why did you come to the Floating Palace to see His Majesty?"

"Well today we are here to see Mr Ranchand. But I guess everyone who comes to the Floating Palace hopes to get a glimpse of the King. The next time you are talking to the King maybe you could put in a good word for us I am sure it would mean a lot coming from a princess."

(Clengah)"You look like a Scout, are you here on a secret mission for the Imperium?" To Silas

"Correct! I am on a secret mission for the Imperium." Silas thought it might be fun to play along. "I'm here to learn the culinary secrets of the King's chef..." Silas got down low and took on the most somber serious tone he could. "See, a traveller passed though Pax Rulin, and told amazing tales about the unique flavours Drinaxian ramen. So-o-o... I need your help to get into the royal kitchen and learn the secrets of the Noodle Master of the Trojan Reach. Seriously. Please?"

(Clengah)"I can help with that. If we do that do you think I can get some extras for me?" (Dilmah)"You cannot just give away secrets Clengah! What if it is really valuable? Mother would want to know first. See this is why you are strong and I am smart."

Mikhel, Sultana, Athena, and Hernández pause a couple of feet into the Bazaar. They spot Silas on one knee speaking with a young boy and young girl while Harison looks on with a smile. Harison spots the group and nods quickly.

"Ah, do not let us interrupt. We simply thought it proper to give a greeting as we were walking by rather than pretend you were not seen. We can speak later at the gallery," said Athena in greeting, body posture clear they had no intention of staying to chat long.

Standing in the Bazaar, looking at the large group of people moving about, Mikhel realizes he will need to memorize the faces, as well as marks of rank, for Drinaxian royalty, and key figures. If he is looking to 'bump' into a few of them, and not in formal settings where everyone will know of the meeting, Mikhel would have to be able to identify them on sight.

What else interesting was going on around the group?

Mihkel Dromah: [SKILL] Streetwise (2D+3) (vs Difficulty 6) [2d6+3 = 9]
[ +3 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] 10 Minutes checking. (Looking about the Bazaar, getting a feel for the place.)

Sultana looks about the bazaar to see if there's anything interesting for sale, keeping a special eye out for a likely high-end book seller.

Mikhel and Sultana both size up the Bazaar quickly as the group enters briefly then heads back out along the crowded outer corridor. 1- It is crowded with people looking over things but not unreasonably crowded. You saw Silas and Harison speaking with a family and no one interrupted them, or pushed through. 2 - The items for sale did not have prices, there seemed to be a variety of goods. Surprisingly things like spices and cookware that you might seen in any market, and also art and antiques BOB did some rolls for Mikhel and Sultana on Streetwise and Admin, tossed in a Science of Sophontology for Athena 3 - Based on the results of the rolls and looking at each other as you move along it occurs to the group. This is almost a pawnbroker type of setup rather than a store, a bartering type of system that Mikhel and Athena have seen out on other lower tech level systems

With what little Mikhel could find in researching Drinax, there was no economy here. No trade in or out, on anything like a regular basis. Once in the system, the lack of ship movement was yet another indication of the problem. Drinax didn't produce anything. If it did, it wasn't in interstellar trade quantities. So, barter economy? Drinax was in serious trouble. With nothing being produced, were Drinaxians trading away their legacy and history? There was an educational institution on the Floating Palace, according to the planetary summary. That would bring in foreign cash. Was it in sufficient quantity? Or just prolonging the demise? Let's see the Scholar's Tower, and maybe we'll get more answers.

{this is when Ranchando, Silas and Harison disappear deeper into the Bazaar as the group continues down the corridor}

Your guide brings you out of the Bazaar and along the corridor towards the Royal Docking Platform again. He brings you past those airlocks and to another set of oversized environmental doors that are guilded with the Royal Symbol of Drinax.

(Hawk Warrior Jarxal)"Captain Solis, Baron Hernández, Lt. Sultana and Medic Mikhel. I give you the Great Hall of the Royal Family, His Majesty King Oleb XVI, long may he reign. He using a code to open the doors and you enter a wide open spacious multi level space with fountains, open areas, and a definate change of feeling from the rest of the Floating Palace.

(Hawk Warrior Jarxal)"Captain Solis, I was not ignoring your earlier question, I just did not think it wise to speak of it while others could hear and think you were taking sides. Unless that is your intention. Prince Harrick was grieviously wounded in the assault on Asim and has spent the last two decades in the Scholar's Tower recovering. Or being replaced, or being converted, depending on your flavor of the conspiracy theory. I have not ever been part of his security detail so I cannot say if he has changed or not. When his body was recovered from the crash of his ship during the assault it hurt His Majesty, long may he reign, and after a time he appointed the Princess as his heir. Now that Prince Harrick has returned, the palace is filled with intrigue.

"Science does not take sides. It should always remain impartial. But that said, the Prince himself may be of interest to science depending which, if any, of those conspiracy hypotheses come up true. It simply piques my curiosity more as to what studies are done here and as to how equip the tower is to handle it. I had not thought it advanced enough for those formerly mentioned hypotheses, but perhaps I will be surprised," said Athena with clear interest. How she already longed to be back in her lab.

"Two decades is certainly a long recovery time. If I had to guess, I'd think either massive cybernetics, or some sort of comatose state." Or perhaps something out of fiction, he thinks, like growing a new body from scratch for a brain transfer. "But I can see why the return of an heir after a long absence would cause upsets in the established heirarchy."

"Captain, Ell-Tee? Is this something you might want me to check out? I might be able to do a scan on the Prince on the Dee-Ell, but not likely. There could be something I might be able to do, if the recovery was not entirely successful. Drinax is supposed to have the Tech Level, but perhaps not the best practitioners." Mikhel will turn to the escorts if they were listening in. "No offence intended, Warrior Jarxal. I am not familiar with Drinaxian medical experience. I do know I've been part of many recovery team efforts for catastrophic injuries. Sadly, almost all of them have been due to belligerent action, but the results still took specific skills."

(Hawk Warrior Jarxal)"This is why I thought you might find it appropriate to spend time here alone. The assault on Asim was complicated and their ambassador to the Floating Palace might have a differing opinion on things. If I may be so bold to offer a suggestion, do not offer your own opinions on Palace intrigue until you have met more of the people involved. I will be taking you to one of those now for your tour of the Art Gallery. Ranchando does have the ear of many of the factions in the Floating Palace. His Majesty, long may he reign, has given him several favors, including the Bazaar we passed by.

"The Prince's injuries and recovery are interesting from an outsider's viewpoint, but it may be a sensitive subject for casual conversation. Your skills might be welcomed by the medical community here though, if you have additional experience in catastrophic injury recovery, Dromah. Coming here directly from the Imperium with its likely more active and possibly more advanced medical practices, you might have knowledge they currently lack. I'd imagine the medical journals needed to keep up with the leading edge of medical treatments take a while to get here."

To Warrior Jarxal: "Don't worry, we certainly won't ignorantly try to meddle with Palace intrigues. However, it's my experience that by us merely being here, Palace intrigues may try to make use of us. So that we do the least amount of damage possible, it's wise for us to get as thorough an understanding of the political landscape as we can. I'd hate to accidentally offend someone unknowingly. There are some duels it's better to avoid than fight."

"Warriors, you do not know who I am, or what agenda I might follow. This is understandable, I not having been here before. However, nothing I offer for medical treatment is ever politically motivated. I do not expect any favours or future considerations, if I manage to aid anyone on the Floating Palace, or anywhere I happen to travel. The Code of Ledriasda is my overarching moral guide. As I'm not a traditional Doctor, and am no longer a member of the Third Imperium military, I am not restricted by other oaths or codes. Politics, local or otherwise, would never interfere with who, or why, I provide medical assistance. I hope that assisting residents of the Floating Palace won't offend anyone, nor step on any toes of the Scholar's Tower medical staff."

(Hawk Warrior Jarxal)"Medic Dromah I am certain that you would be well received if you offered emergency care to someone, or if they came to you for questions. It is true that there will be those in the Scholar's Tower who will be uncomfortable to hostile at your practicing anything more than emergency care. I will arrange for the Scholars who worked with the Prince to be available for you and Captain Solis during your visit tomorrow. I am uncertain their reaction to you questioning or examining the Prince but I will leave that to your own devices.It is time to take you to the Art Gallery for your appointment. This way."

He leads you back out the same door of the Great Hall, down a corridor past the Bazaar and then turns back towards the port side of the Palace to arrive at the entrance to the Art Gallery just a moment before a human male, apparently Ranchando, who is accompanied by Silas and Harison emerge from a corridor leading from the Bazaar and come up to the entrance to the Art Gallery.

''{Conversation resumes at the Art Gallery



adding break to make it easier to find which conversation you are replying to

Ranchando comes back around the corner as Captain Solis' group leaves the Bazaar.

(Ranchando)"Countess Abigail I am always happy to spend time with you. I do hope that we can come to a better agreement soon. Enjoy your day Clengah and Dilmah. The Countess retrieves her children from Silas and Harison. She smiles at the two of them. (Abigale)"I do hope the children were pleasant for you. Always curious about new things. Come along, we have to get you to your music lesson Dilmah.

The family moves down the Corridor heading the same way as the other group.

Ranchando nods to Harison and Silas, "Gentlemen, please some back to my office where we can have some privacy." He leads the two of them down an aisle, around a corner and through one of the few doorways you have seen in the Bazaar. He opens the door for you, then closes it behind. He opens a bottle of some darker sweet smelling liquor and pours three glasses. Handing them out he gestures to two chairs in front of a desk as he moves around behind.

(Ranchando)"Thank you for visiting. I am glad you came to speak with me. My previous guest was here because of you, well indirectly because of you perhaps. She wanted to know how many doses of a particular substance she could purchase from me. I am certain there will be more. You have been in system not even a full day yet. If I may be open and blunt with you. Who the hell are you? Why are you here?"

Harison sits back in the sea and swirls the drink in the glass and then takes a smell and smiles "This doesn’t smell half bad." He looks up at Ranchando. "Nice opener strong forceful letting us know we are in your territory now, gone is the nice polite captain we meet on his ship. Who we are is who we said we were I am sure if you looked us up even in this back water radiated hell hole of a planet you get some news from out side this sector and verified we are who we said. If not you may need better sources for your information I could probably help with that. As for your 2nd question why are we here I believe you invited us to visit you or was I miss taken?"

(Ranchando)Laughs happily, "Thank you Admiral. I do appreciate being able to speak man to man and be honest with each other. I am still the polite captain you met a few hours ago. It is only that I have done my research since meeting you two there. I know you are both highly decorated and well regarded members of the Imperial Naval and Scout forces. I know you are here with some... strangely influential companions that apparently have caught the eye of King Oleb. There are two meetings scheduled with His Majesty tomorrow and three more on New Years Day. Several of your companions are in those meetings, yet you two are not. he sips his drink appreciatively "That would be enough to be interested in this.... back water radiated hell hole of a planet..... to encourage me to speak with you.

he pauses just a moment to let Harison and Silas see he has taken the jab well, is not upset, but not giving in.

(Ranchando)"Let me tell you how I came to the Floating Palace five years ago. I knew I wanted to find out more about this place. So I brought along supplies that I researched and knew would be wanted. Not fancy jewelry, no high technology weapons. Fruit. I brought fruit. That gave me a chance to meet people, to engage, and have meaningful conversations. I was lucky enough to serve King Oleb in a time of need for repairs to one of his ships used to defend Asim. I grew my place here from that. taking a sip of his drink "Now you two come here with something that the Palace Nobles crave, and His Majesty will be pleased to have as a gift. If you want to give it or not. That is why I wanted to speak with you. Are you able to handle that? What is your plan? I want to be clear, I bear no ill will towards you, I applaud your instincts and personally I think you might be excellent company here at the Palace if you can pull this off. So I suppose my next question is how can I work with you to benefit both of us?"

Silas watched carefully and made murmurs of agreement to Harison's points. Puzzle pieces were tumbling into place in his mind, too few to complete his picture of Drinax, but very illuminating just the same. "As the Admiral says, we're currently speculating, and as any merchant worth their credits, we'll seek the maximum profit for our goods... We're birds of a feather, Ranchando. Peas in a pod." He savoured his beverage a moment seeking out Harison's unspoken agreement before he went on. "I agree, I would like to work on some mutually beneficial arrangement."

"I see now. You came here five years ago with fruit, and you sold your fruit for the heirloom and valuables of these people that must’ve made you a pretty penny now that’s how you make profit well done that is some nice work. Now I am impressed." Harison raises his glass to Ranchand to congratulate him on his success. "Now selling our good here or not is no problem we will find a buyer at the next plant we can sit on them till we find the right price we are in no hurry for a quick turn around. But there is no need to worry we did not come here looking to move in on what you have going on here. Unless that’s why the King has invited the other members of the crew here but that’s unlikely as your a part of his court and help him with his ship. So we are here for some thing else as I said before I don’t know why we are here but I am sure I’ll find out soon. Now I think you don’t know what the King is planing and that’s worrying for you as you can sense some thing is brewing change is on the horizon. So my question to you is how can we help you?"

(Ranchando)"How you can help me is to allow me to guide you in your negotiating the sale of your goods. I am not concerned about you visiting the Palace often, bringing in new trade goods is a sign of strength that His Majesty will appreciate. It just so happens that your particular cargo this time will stir interest and you will not be accustomed to solving the balances here. If I may indulge myself, can I trust that both of you will keep a secret?"

"You sure can I am nothing if not a man of my word."

"Scout's Honour." Silas said earnestly although with a twist of humour. "For is it not said that secrets are things we give to others to keep for us? We can keep a secret."

(Ranchando)Nods to both of them, "I do want you to pay attention over your stay here on the Palace. The lack of credits is critical. As in there are almost none. Which is what the Countess was here for. To try and negotiate an exchange. What relics does she have that she can exchange with me for a dose or a dozen of what you are bringing in. "

(Ranchando)"Do you want me to assist you in determining what the values are? Or do you want to try that on your own?"

"That is deeply disappointing. As I stated before, it is not my merchandise I am I was just tasked with buying and trying to sell it. If it was up to me, I would just hold on to it to sell it somewhere else, but it’s not up to me. So if you think you can help, that would be much appreciated thank you. And any deals you think can work I can bring them to my superiors and see what they decide as they have final say on it. I hope you find this satisfactory."

"Relics? Hmm..." Silas mused, thinking credits would have been so much easier than swapping one niche trade item for another."And please tell us what the the terms of your assistance would be?"

(Ranchando)"My request, I cannot impose terms on you. That would be His Majesty. looking over Harison, glances at Silas, then back at Harison. "You said you had some to sell. Just how much do you want to keep for your self for you to use? How much do you want to gift to His Majesty? How much do you want to trade to the other residents of the Floating Palace?"

"As I have said repeatedly its not mine I was just told to sell it, not trade it, not gift it, just sell it all of it. So if you know someone looking to buy or you yourself want some we be happy to consider reasonable offers. You saw the ship we came in on not a lot of room for cargo and the curved walls are not great for hanging any art so trade is very much off the books. Now I think we have taken up too much of your time and you have another meeting so Ill say good buy and good day. And I hope to hear from you that you have an offer for the goods if not no worries and i am sure if I am in the area again we might be able to do some business. And again thank you for your time and the drink." Harison got up gave Ranchando nob as he said thank you and good buy. Headed to the door and left.

(Ranchando)"I am glad to help you realign your expectations for how to deal with exchanges here on the Floating Palace as you need. Let me take you to your next appointment. You are joining the rest of the crew of the Pioneer on a tour of the Art Gallery correct?"

"Thank you I believe we are but I must admit, most art is a bit over my head I grew up very far from Gallery’s but I suppose it’s never to late learn something new. Lead the way Sir."

1104-364-18:00 - Tour of the Art Gallery

(Hawk Warrior Jarxal)"Here is your tour guide Ranchando. He has collected many works from the Floating Palace and from systems beyond to highlight some of the magnificent history and cultural artifacts of the Star Dragon Empire of Sindal in Exile, and Kingdom of Drinax. I will wait for the completion of your tour then I will escort you back to your ships."

(Ranchando)"Thank you Hawk Warrior Jarxal. I will have them back with you before 19:00. He nods to Jarxal, then opens the doors to the Art Gallery to bring you in.

In the group are Harison, Silas, Mikhel, Sultana, Athena, and Hernández.

Sultana nods in greeting to Ranchando (who I don't believe he has met in person yet). "Thank you for the tour, Hawk Warrior Jarxal."

Mikhel gives the two Hawk Warriors a hand gesture, one that enlisted Marines gave each other when greeting or departing. Not a salute, but a battle hand sign for 'cover me', something that has come to mean 'I have your back' among fellow Marines. Then, Mikhel focuses his whole attention on Rachando. What is he wearing, and how good is it? Mikhel watches the face and listens to the voice. Then, Mikhel listens to the words. What is this guy saying, and more importantly, not saying. Mikhel also needs to sort out what Ranchando is presenting, and if he thinks it's valuable. Can Mikhel figure out why it has value? Does anything here compare to the Museum on Torpol? BY how much, has this guy fleeced Drinax? Mikhel is not comfortable, and Ranchando is not something Mikhel has ever experienced. At least, not knowingly.

Silas was becoming more relaxed in Ranchando's company now that the business discussion had passed and the broker became a tour guide. He was as interested in Drinax's people as he was the art and the historical cultural elements of the tour, so watched attentively. He alternately grinned at Ranchando and the crew, and marvelled at what he was shown.

Ranchando welcomes the group into the Art Gallery. (Ranchando)"Thank you for your interest in the exposition. I have tried to maintain the Sindalian Artifacts as best as possible. The Empire created many beautiful pieces, they had a certain flair to their designs and the ornamentation that they preferred to have in their lives. As you may be aware the Kingdom of Drinax is also known at the Star Dragon Empire of Sindal in Exile. This is to certify to the rest of known space that while there may be minor setbacks over the history of the Empire the flame shall not perish. He glances over to an alcove and says, (Ranchando)"Isn't that correct Lord Wrax?"

As the group looks around you spot a tall dark proud human male step forward and nod to Ranchando, he looks over your group with almost a sneer. (Wrax)"Right you are Ranchando. The Kingdom of Drinax may only be a sliver of what was yet we will rise to grind those who doubted us into the dust which they came from. (Ranchando)"Lord Wrax is the head of the Royal Guards of Drinax, and in charge of our defenses. (Wrax)"And the offensive capabilities of our armed forces. Do not forget Ranchando before you arrived I was King Oleb's, long may he reign, second in command for the assault on Asim. I am in charge of ensuring our capabilities are strong.

Ranchando nods and gives him his moment.

(Ranchando)"Thank you for your continued vigilance Lord Wrax. I am going to continue our tour for his majesty's, long may he reign, guests.

(Wrax)"Thank you Ranchando for taking care of King Oleb's, long may he reign, interested in this. I have always felt guests should be welcomed like a new air scrubber. And not stay to be replaced. Lord Wrax looks over the group and then walks away deeper into the gallery.

(Ranchando)"Thank you for your attention....." He pauses and waits, hearing a door close farther away.

(Ranchando)"I am certain that Lord Wrax means to welcome you to the Floating Palace with as much enthusiasm as he can. With rumors jumping around of who the special guest is that his majesty has invited for the new year I imagine you will be encountering other members of Court who may or may not be as nice as Lord Wrax. Do not take it unkindly, they are only working to protect their own interests.

Ranchano leads the group through several small alcoves to see some sculptures, tapestries, and several weapon displays.

BOB rolled Broker, Art, Investigate for Harison, Sultana, and Athena

Based on those results the group can tell two key facts. 1 - There are multiple items of the same type in some of these display cases, not typically what you would see in a gallery 2 - The items displayed all seem to have a more personal touch. Things that have been handled many times, things with family insignia on them, etc. 3 - The quick judgment is that this is more of a hold station for things. Based on Harison and Silas' previous observation this is more of a pawn shop. A place to display things that someone hopes to find a way to recover. Not all of the items are like that, but some have that feel. The weapons are more predominate in that grouping.

Baron Hernández stops in front of one of the displays, (Hernández)"Is this really what it seems to be? These are very rare. (Ranchando)"I see you have a very discerning eye. yes this is a Sindalian Spice Dispenser. The Empire had these on their ships in the officer's mess. They keep things at exactly the right ambiance needed for which ever spice, flavor, or I suppose anything you choose to place in it you set. They are one of the more esoteric devices that the Empire created. There are likely more out there, but we only have two here on the Floating Palace. If you are interested I could see if there could be a negotiation for someone like you Lord Hernández. I imagine you would appreciate this more than most. (Hernández)"I would appreciate that opportunity. Ranchando nods and looks over at Silas and Harison. (Ranchando)"I will see what I can find that is a suitable trade for you."

Ranchando leads the group past several more displays, Mikhel spots a medical kit in bright red and gold, obviously very high technology level. As Ranchando leads past the last of the cases he opens a small door into what seems to be an interior airlock. (Ranchando)"One of the safety measures of the Floating Palace. Several areas can be sealed off to protect people as needed.:

Ranchano leads the group to another door and opens it. Suddenly the noise is much louder and this front half of the gallery seems to be occupied by.... squatters? families? Areas that were clearly at once point open display or exhibition spaces are now taken up by families living within walls created by tapestries or other temporary structures. Ranchando leads you through this maze of places and back out to a corridor.

(Ranchando)"This is the airlock for the Royal Landing Platform and your ships. I do hope I see you tomorrow, and for many days to come. Please contact me for anything I can help with.

"Ranchando, thank you for your time and guiding the tour. Do you have a comm link?"

(Hawk Warrior Jarxal)"I will be here to welcome you in the morning. I have been informed that the Voyager will be returning with Captain Solis, Medic Drohma, and Baron Hernández tomorrow afternoon for meetings at the Scholar's Tower. Scout Silas, Admiral Harison did you have any appointments you would like an escort to?

"Warrior Jarxal. Lord Wrax introduced himself as the individual in 'charge of offensive capabilities.' That's 'Force Projection' in my parlance. What do you think of him? A good boss, or not?"