Main / 1105-009

Calendar

1105-008 -- 1105-009 -- 1105-010

Torpol

Calendar

1105-008 -- 1105-009 -- 1105-010

Timing of events
04:30 - Gloamhound Mutiny
8:00 - Start of a new life for Crockett
12:35 - Harrier Arrives at Highport

04:30 - Torpol Highport

Cargo Deck – Gloamhound Docked Torpol Highport | Emergency Lighting Active

The blaring alarm screams through the ship as emergency lights strobe across scattered crates and tools. Khurn stirs, groaning on the cold deckplates.

Ears pressed flat, voice groggy and sharp,

(Khurn) Kzethra! Is that a real alarm? Shut it off!

(Kzethra calm, toneless)

(Kzethra) Negative. You instructed me to trigger a false reactor alert if anyone other than you opened the ship safe.

The alarm cuts off. Silence follows—just the pulse of emergency lights and Khurn’s slow rise. Though Kzethra often sounded like a person, she wasn’t sentient—just a high-function intellect program designed to run the ship’s systems and follow protocols.

snorting, rubbing at his muzzle

(Khurn) Right. That does sound like me. Ship status?

(Kzethra) All systems are green. Magazine reloaded. Fuel tanks full. Life support and maintenance optimal.”

A pause, just long enough to suggest bad news.

However, the ship’s safe and escrow account have been emptied. All crew members except yourself have evacuated.

(Kzethra) Are we still planning to rendezvous with Corsair Zuekhvi?

Khurn sits up. Something rolls under his hand. He picks it up—a bloodied tooth. His.

holding the tooth up to the flickering light

(Khurn) No.” he stated dryly.

He turns it between his claws, slowly standing.

voice low, bitter

(Khurn) I don’t think we’re going anywhere…

He flicks the tooth into a corner of the cargo bay.

(Khurn) …with them.

A few hours later, Khurn sat slouched in the Captain’s chair on the bridge of the Gloamhound, a half-full glass of bourbon cradled in one paw and a lingering headache pulsing behind his eyes.

His former packmates had gutted the ship. They’d drained the accounts, started raiding the supplies, and might’ve taken more—if the forced opening of the safe hadn’t triggered the false reactor alarm.

Khurn had watched the playback. The panic. The scramble. The undignified sprint to the airlock. If it hadn’t been his ship, his crew, and his damn money—they might’ve made him laugh.

He took a long pull from the glass, downing half in a single motion, then swiveled toward the comms and sensor array. The displays flared to life under his claws as he searched through local traffic logs. Arrivals. Departures. Transponder data.

He frowned.

Nothing looked familiar. No ships he recognized. No flags he trusted.

“Kzethra,” he muttered, voice dry. “Looks like we might be selling the ship’s boat.”

No reply. She didn’t comment on sarcasm.

With a grunt, Khurn routed the comm alerts to his quarters, drained the rest of the bourbon, and stood slowly—shoulders heavy.

“Morning problem,” he muttered, padding off the bridge.

The lights dimmed behind him.

Rakke, If you receive this, and are still looking for a berth. There are opportunities on the Gloamhound. Seek me out at dock 13– Khurn out.

To: Khurn
Fr: Rakke

Looking for something. Oghmans seem to have scared off travellers wanting to hunt game on Marduk and Thebus. Must've been a travel advisory or something. I'll head over see what you've got.

8:00 - Blue Ice Hotel Crockett sleeps in just a short while.

For the first time in his life, he has no duties, no responsibilities, no required place to be, no duty roster to check, he is on his own to do anything he wants. Right away out of the service he joined in with the Pioneer for a brief month and found that style of ship roster was not for him. He tried out a diplomatic mission, and found that he did not like the uncertainty of that lifestyle. Now he had his own time, his own day, his own path through Charted Space.

8:30 - Blue Ice Hotel [Crockett wakens--enough is enough--freedom is only good if you make something of it] [Musing to oneself...shower and coffee time...think I'll take a bit of stroll of highport with this new freedom]

[While showering...really need to make a decision about this Sternmetal offer and then move on... Let's think about this...being on the BOARD would certainly be challenging and something I think I could be up for...but I don't see the monthly cash flow for my immediate needs right now...so think I should quit the dreaming...My polite answer will be "THANKS ...BUT NO THANKS"...let's move forward."

[Think I will get dressed...go to hotel coffee room and contact 'POSON'. Does that and sends 'POSON' message to make contact today so he can answer questions posed.]

[Sending further message to 'POSON'] For Poson "Further...I require your assistance this morning on another small matter and that is getting message to my parents on Bowman in District 268 by fast J4 courier....Please confirm when we meetup today that cost of that is 100 cr and provide confirmation of estimated time of delivery and return message back to me in Torpol c/o STARPORT ADMINISTRATION here for my attention.

Crockett is in the common room having breakfast when he gets a message on his pad.

(Poson)"Very good Sir Crockett. Message sent out this morning for you to Bowman. Anticpated arrival in that system is 1105-094. For an estimated time of return it depends on the sender. I have lined up an interview for you with Sternmetal Holdings out at Traefar. Would you prefer to do the interview tomorrow or the day after?"

[Crockett responds to POSON radio message] "Day after works best for me. So will my response from BOWMAN return to me by time of crucial Board of Directors at STERNMETAL's next meeting....say it only needs Two Days on BOWMAN for prepration of return message?

(Poson)"Very good Sir Crockett. I will set up the meeting there for you on 011. For your response back, it does entirely depend on your recipient. It is certainly possible for it to arrive in time."

[Crockett to Poson] How is my travel to Traefar to be arranged on Day 11 and will I be able to return that same day to Torpol?

(Poson)"Very good Sir Crockett, I can arrange that for you. The interview on 011, then if you are not starting work right away travel back from Traefar to home. Currently it is just over 8 days outbound, it will of course be slightly longer on the inbound trip. Orbital mechanics being what they are. The round trip ticket will cost 200Cr. I will have it billed to your room for you. Alternatively I could arrange for the interview by Holo, the downfall of that is if they need any specific tests it would delay the start of your employment."

I decided after a brief trip into seasonal orbital mechanics for the Torpol system that it is better to just give a rough number of hours (or days) rather than actual travel times.

[Crockett to Poson] Regarding trip to Traefar....we will have to do this interview by HOLO? Must I really travel to Traefar for this sort of preliminary discussion about the future? Just asking....I'd prefer to remain on Torpol for Day 011 if possible....Sorry to be of trouble.

[Crockett to 'FLORT'] I understand you are trying to rendesvous with your old friend. It has been awhile. My plans for Day 11 are somewhat unknown at specific moment. But could we say we meet tentatively at my place of lodging -- the Blue Ice Hotel on the Starport at 0900 hrs? You can send radio message to "Blue Ice Hotel, Torpol Starport" Attn: of guest James Crockett.

(Poson)"Very good Sir Crockett, I have arranged a Holo Meeting for you for your interview. It will take place on 011 at 04:00 to be in sync with Treafar's work rotation." {appointment link included in the message}

Asim

Calendar

1105-008? -- 1105-009 -- 1105-010?



Timing of events
6:00 - Morning Meeting
9:16 - Pioneer emerges from Jump
13:45 - Pioneer arrives at Starport

9:30 - Asim Starport System Control

"Attention Lab Ship Pioneer. This is Asim System Control. Welcome to the Kingdom of Drinax, the Asim system welcomes you. What business do you have here?"

"Asim System Control, PSV Pioneer."
"Standby Pilot speaking."
"The Pioneer is here at the direction of the King of Drinax, Long may he Reign."
"The Pioneer would appreciate a parking orbit near or over your main port, or as close overhead of your government headquarters on Asim as possible."
"Representatives of the ship will wish to meet with the head of government at their earliest convenience. The pioneer's pinnace, the Voyager, will provide transport of Pioneer staff to any meetings."
"Please advise the Hta'ahriy Hrakoea huiha that their Htaseihoas is aboard."

Translation: 'Please advise the First Pride of the Hrakoea clan that their First Daugther is aboard.'

"After any priority passenger transfers are complete, Pioneer would like to refuel, using the Voyager to perform the transfers, if you don't have a bulk carrier capable of docking with the Pioneer's 6 meter docking ring. Any Imperial standard ship's boat with a 6 meter round hull should fit."

"Pioneer acknowledged. We will consult and inform you of further actions. Continue on your path to Asim"

Pioneer

Calendar

1105-008? -- 1105-009 -- 1105-010?



Timing of events
6:00 - Morning Meeting
9:16 - Emerge from Jump at Asim
13:45 - Arrive at Starport

6:00 - Morning Meeting in the common area

{this is the final meeting waiting to emerge from Jump, a chance to organize anything before arriving}

Mikhel had a workout session, and off to have a coffee. The coffee tasted better, this trip. It is not hard to make bad coffee, but Rao was, somehow, making it better. The beans?

As Mikhel poured out his granola, he considered the path ahead. What was the plan for Asim? What could the scientists do? Why not start with Drinax?

Right. No money.

Mayhaps I have a few things to learn. The coffee will help with cranking up the brain...

(Eleni)"Good Morning Mikel, are you up to speed on anything we need to watch for on the surface?"

She tosses down three or five tablets, snatches one up again, tosses aside again, walks over to get food.

 "Why do they never think to check the oceans? Did you see this 'latest study' from 1054 by some random scholar? 150 million hecatres of land suitable for agricultural use..... 70% of the planet is water, what about aquaculture? How many metric tons of protein could they be harvesting safely without overburdening the ecosytem? Oh and over on Marduk they have similar circumstances but they know to harvest from the seas. That is what whats her name.... Katarina? That girl that crashed with Sultana and Athena? They knew to work the water."

She takes a bite, drinks some coffee, tapping on the pad in an unconscious imitation of Athena, muttering to herself.

"The rest of the system is almost sterile? No one has investigated how many hundreds of moons and satellites out there on five gas giants? Need to get Tep on that, what sort of gravity weirdness is happening to have five gas giants, no belts, but a garden world that no one has developed in thousands of years."

She takes another bite, then talks with her mouth full "ah uu rr wit Sherr tom" coughs, swallows, drinks "Sorry You are with Sherris tomorrow to start the investigation into that weird Foundation secret society. You are her cover. She is your helper as you investigate for unknown pathogens that have stunted the growth of anything colorful on this planet."

Rao walks in on that comment.

"I must have missed that briefing? Perhaps you could enlighten me. Or, I could go talk to Nika, if you have too much on the go." Mikhel nods at the pile of tablets.

8:00 - Bridge Watch

Mikhel closes up on the bridge for break-out watch, and checks the Library for anything on the Asim Foundation. What the heck is/was it?

Mikhel: [SKILL] Electronics (2D+2) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+2 = 10] [+6 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] 4 Minutes. Research on 'The Foundation'. Mikhel will take 40 minutes to actually read what he finds.

The Foundation - The brief notes that Mikhel finds in the library data: When the Ihatei fleet invaded Asimov in 885 (and renamed it to Asim) the Aslan picked The Foundation, a secretive group with a 10,000 year plan to rule. The world was recaptured from The Foundation in 1085 by Drinax.
Digging deeper into political history, he pieces together that there was a group of human 'truthers' who believed that the Sindalian Empire would rise again and become the Fourth Imperium. That is what their 10,000 year plan was, is? Improbably Mikhel finds current information The Foundation seems to have morphed into a business enterprise. Mikhel cannot find any public information about any accomplishments The Foundation had in their time ruling Asim for 180 years. They were obviously not successful in defending the planet when Drinax invaded 1085 and re-took control. Yet they still seem to be on the fringes of things that happen on Asim.
Mikhel thinks he needs more feet on the ground investigative work as Eleni suggested to find out how an apparently failed government is still trying to be relevant.

Harrier

Calendar

1105-008 -- 1105-009 -- 1105-010

Timing of events
04:30 - Gloamhound Mutiny
09:04 - Harrier emerges from Jump Space
12:35 - Harrier Arrives at Highport



09:05 - Emerges from Jump Space

After entering the system Harison institutes a System enquiries, checklist:
- Checking for local news - Checking for news from other systems
- Checking for potential crew
- Checking for Persons of Interest (Contacts/Friends/Enemies);
- Checking for Ship movements( trade ships military and defence boats in system)

Harison see that an old navy friend is on Torpal looking for work. Think he would be a perfect fit he fires off a message to him.

To Billy Burke plant side Torpal.
Hello old friend hope this message finds you well. I am part of the crew of a ship that could use some one with your skill set. I will say it to the rest of the crew but don’t see any problem with you joining. On a personal note it would be good to have some one watching my back there is a crew man from Drinax on board who has expressed an interest in killing me so be nice to have another set of eyes on him.
Harison Dawn on the Harrier Ship.

To Sultan
May have a possible new crew member. I have worked with a marine with a lot of skill in close combat. I can arrange a meeting if you like to see him before offering him a spot.

Billy had been working as a bouncer at one of the clubs on Torpal his physically imposing size was well suited to keeping the drunk party animals in line. He was starting to think that he never find a ship to crew on, to take him off the plant. When he received a coms message from a navel Admiral he had severed under for years in the Navy. It was odd that he said he was part of a crew and not in charge as well as having people he could not trust on board. Why out here in this part of space maybe this was some covert mission and coms messages were misleading for security. Any way who cared they probably be lot of opportunities to shoot people.

To Admiral Dawn on the Harrier
Be more than happy to enlist Sir.

Torpol Highport Crew Listings
Ryn Bask, formerly of Free Trader Antelope Laughs, looking for paid passage or regular crew work aboard ship departing Torpol.
Security, Driver, Pilot, Cook and All-Rounder. Cocktails a speciality. References available

To Ryn Bask Torpal
Good Day Mr Ryn Bask. We are small very experienced crew looking to fill out our new ship with crew mates. We are for the most part ex military and the ship is no trader what work we will be doing has a high amount of danger. So if you can handle your self and not afraid of danger there might be a spot here for you. Please tell us about your back round the good and the bad. We will be doing a back round check on you if you’re interested so please be up front with any thing that might flag as if you tell us it won’t be counted against you. Also please let us know what skills you have especially anything related to space travel and combat.
Harison Dawn on the V’hurg

As the ship heads in-system, Sultana follows his usual ritual and pulls the list of ships currently at the station. "Hmm..What are they doing out here? Interesting...." He leaned back in his chair and thought for a few minutes, then reached over and tapped a few lines into his comm board.

Khurn had woken and taken some pain pills for his swollen jaw and some human coffee to make him alert and started making a full inventory of the ship. He started going through the crew cabins of his deceased packmates some of whom had been on the ship as long as him. He was standing in the ship’s locker when the comm alarm pinged that a message had arrived.

Gloamhound: Fortuitous encountering you. Potential opportunity here, if you're at loose ends. Lunch tomorrow at Hharn-fel's? - Suraksha

Dawn: Good news. Yes, would like to meet them. An old acquaintance of mine is in dock as well. Might be able to add them." - Sultana

Kzethra, can you play or read that message for me? He asked Suraksha? A glimmer of a smile appeared Kzethra, things might be looking up.

Suraksha, glad to hear from you. I am very interested in any opportunities and will meet you at Noon Station Time. Looking forward to it – Gloamhound out.

To Harison Dawn:
I appreciate the hail, Harison. 16 years as a Free Trader in the Reach can vouch for me being not afraid of danger. The Antelope Laughs captained by Vas Yurridan, ex- Navy. You might have heard of her.

I am willing to take risks if the reward warrants. I am a decent spacecraft pilot, gunner and comms operator, and was the ship's security aboard the Antelope. Shall we meet?

Ryn

Ryn, intrigued, left his well worn place at the bar, and walked to where he might see the V'Hurg, and learn more about this ship which may become an offer of work.

Alerted by Sultana's exclamation, Silas followed his gaze to the Gloamhound. "Sultana, how do you know her? I have an old friend aboard."

12:35 - Torpol Highport

Silas had groomed himself to disembark, and was wearing his customary duster jacket over white shirt and had foregone his pistol and sword to respect Torpol's regulations. He was keen to join Harison on the shopping trip, and hoped to sample the local fare. There were rumours of a cocktail, the Torpol Ghostfire, and he wondered if he might find a bar that would serve this.

Sultana glanced over at Silas in the other chair. "Oh.. Sorry about that, Lane/Goldvane. I'm not used to being in a group room." He taps the Gloamhounds's name on the ship list with his finger. "I've got an old acquaintance on board as well. Small universe." There's a small beep from his console and he opens up the incoming reply. "Ah, good, Khurn's available. Maybe we can recruit the Gloamhound." He turns back to face Silas. "What do you know of the ship? Anything that'd make it a problem having them with us?"

"Khurn Svikulf? Of the Gloamhound?" Silas paused to recollect details. "I dragged him off a stricken liner! We've been keeping in contact ever since!" Silas had a bond with the Vargr, and admitted to himself that Khurn was one inspiration for throwing off the boredom and hierarchy of the Navy and Scouts. The stories he would tell gave Silas hope for a more interesting life. Weird, at this time, on the first task under the letter of marque, that Khurn would turn up. "I bet he's broke..."

"I have another potential crew hire too. We will set up a meeting time for each one or see them all together to save time? Then lock the 3 in the room with a sword who ever lives we hire or we save that last part for the next batch of recruits?"

Goldvane laughed heartily at Harison's joke. "We're not bloodthirsty cut-throats, are we?" Silas got back on track, "Interviewing one at a time would be practical."

"I think we're a bit more civilized than that, although we don't have to let others know, of course. I've tried a few jokes along that line, but they haven't landed very well." He shrugs. "I agree, anyways, one at a time is probably best. That way we can weed out any we find unsuitable without it feeling like a competition between them. I've scheduled Khurn for noon at Hharn-fel's. Do we want to meet one of the others before, and one after? Or both before, so we can use lunch as an excuse to cut one short if we need to?"

"You have tried and to very little success I might add, there is a time and a place for them and after some threatens to kill me that’s not the place for jokes. Any way moving in I’ll message the 2 potential hires and arrange for them to meet us at the restaurant before noon."

"Shall I sign you up for another marathon to remind how our relationship has usually been?" He smiles and raises his drink in a toast to Harison. "But, if you prefer, while we're crewing together I can keep it on a more even keel."

"I’ll start training now so and can we get the little gold masks for next year run. That way it will hid our shame of. It improving."

To Ryn Bask Torpal
Please meet us at 11:00 on the 10th in Hharn-fel's for a chat about joining on we will be leaving port soon so this will not be long drawn out affair. If you can’t be ready to leave soon after I understand and wish you well on your travels but if you can’t make it I wish you luck in the interview. Ask for the crew of the V’hurg at the front.
Harison Dawn on the V’hurg

Ryn's transceiver pinged while he stood watching the V'Hurg through the port glass. He ran a hand through his hair. That ship isn't much bigger than the Antelope, but it's military spec, aggressive looking, no make that I know anything about,he mused to himself. One could create a lot of trouble in a ship like that.

He read the message, Keen to move on, somewhere to be, huh? and murmured as he tapped out a response. So, am I. Time to be earning again. Just so long as they aren't deadfeeds or filter-busters we should be good. And if the cred is good...

To Harison Dawn on the V'Hurg
Thank you. Can be ready to leave immediately if the pay suits the work. See you tomorrow 11:00 at Hharn-fel's

To Billy Burk plant side Torpal.
Hi Billy could you meet me and the rest of the crew at 10:00 on the 10th at the Hharn-fel's for a chat about joining on we will be leaving port soon so this will not be long drawn out affair. I hope you can be ready to leave soon after. Can’t wait to have you aboard old friend.
Harison Dawn on the V’hurg

To Admiral Dawn on the Harrier
See you then Sir over and out.

Harison returns to the terminal and search’s for 400t Subsidised Liners in system particularly ones that fairies passengers to Torpal for all the entertainment the plant is know for taking note of who owns them private or commercial and were they come from. Also looking up companys that advertises transport to and from Torpal for holidays what ships are use prioritising Subsidised Liners.

Next in Harison list was reaching out to sellers on the station looking for at a minimum Improved Vacc Suits of Tec Level 10 or more. Inquiring about sizes and costs.

And the last item on the list was to contact ship repairs on the station to see if they had the means to repair the harrier if we should return at a later date.

Silas worked with Harison to assess and catalogue required repairs to the V'Hurg as he was the most eager to see her returned to her former aesthetic and practical state. He'd been over the ship in great detail during jump, pacing up and down, doing minor repairs and cleaning where he might. He hemmed and hummed about the missile launcher; with multiple gunners aboard it would be useful to have full capacity firepower, but this was probably low on their priorites.

Search results for Harison. 1 Many subsidized liners come through Torpol as part of the Florian Trade Route. None that ply only the Torpol cluster, most from the Borderlands systems through Torpol towards the Florian League, or the opposite way towards the Imperium. 2Harison does come up with an unusual find of Doubting the Moment a 200 ton Free Trader. The reason it pings on him is they are listed as working for Tobia Uncovered. Which one of their reporters was on the Pioneer from Marduk to Torpol. 3 Harison also finds a ship called the Paternity Inc. which is an 800 subsidized liner that runs a route that he has an instinct that it might be doing more than simple passenger runs. 4 Harison does not find any ships that are dedicated for tourists. 5 There are no TL10 Vacc Suits available, only TL8.

After seeing that the Doubting the Moment ship was in the area, while not overly interested in the going ones of the Tobia Uncovered. With one of its reporters only recently have contacted with the Pioneer might be good to see what they’re doing here. Harison looks into local news to see if there is any thing going on that would have them here for a story.

A search of the news show that Tobia Uncovered is searching the Torpol Cluster and beyond for a new documentary series on Water Worlds of the Reach. Marduk in the Oghma cluster is reported to be part of the project and the Provosts of Torpol are welcoming them with open arms.

Now the Paternity Inc. this ship might suit his purpose. Harison try’s to find out more information on the ship. It’s owner where it came from, it’s next port of call and any cargo it might have listed. He looks to see if there trying to see any cargo or if there looking to buy any too.

This would need a broker roll to get detailed information but the ship appears to follow the Florian Trade Route.

Broker roll for more info
Task Difficult (10)
Taking time +2
Skill +3
Roll 8 (3-5)
Total 13 average success (+3 effect)

Harison does a more detailed check of the ship records in Torpol. Paternity Inc. is a small mercantile company that has a 800 Brilliance Class Long Liner called [The Paternity of Stars that seems to have more cargo space than normal for that type of ship. (The Brilliance Class ship is in FG, Behind the Claw) Harison is of the opinion that they are smugglers of some sort. Gani Laagir is the Captain of The Paternity of Stars

Free & Clear

Torpol

Calendar

1105-008 -- 1105-009 -- 1105-010

Timing of events
04:30 - Gloamhound Mutiny
8:00 - Start of a new life for Crockett
12:35 - Harrier Arrives at Highport

04:30 - Torpol Highport

Cargo Deck – Gloamhound Docked Torpol Highport | Emergency Lighting Active

The blaring alarm screams through the ship as emergency lights strobe across scattered crates and tools. Khurn stirs, groaning on the cold deckplates.

Ears pressed flat, voice groggy and sharp,

(Khurn) Kzethra! Is that a real alarm? Shut it off!

(Kzethra calm, toneless)

(Kzethra) Negative. You instructed me to trigger a false reactor alert if anyone other than you opened the ship safe.

The alarm cuts off. Silence follows—just the pulse of emergency lights and Khurn’s slow rise. Though Kzethra often sounded like a person, she wasn’t sentient—just a high-function intellect program designed to run the ship’s systems and follow protocols.

snorting, rubbing at his muzzle

(Khurn) Right. That does sound like me. Ship status?

(Kzethra) All systems are green. Magazine reloaded. Fuel tanks full. Life support and maintenance optimal.”

A pause, just long enough to suggest bad news.

However, the ship’s safe and escrow account have been emptied. All crew members except yourself have evacuated.

(Kzethra) Are we still planning to rendezvous with Corsair Zuekhvi?

Khurn sits up. Something rolls under his hand. He picks it up—a bloodied tooth. His.

holding the tooth up to the flickering light

(Khurn) No.” he stated dryly.

He turns it between his claws, slowly standing.

voice low, bitter

(Khurn) I don’t think we’re going anywhere…

He flicks the tooth into a corner of the cargo bay.

(Khurn) …with them.

A few hours later, Khurn sat slouched in the Captain’s chair on the bridge of the Gloamhound, a half-full glass of bourbon cradled in one paw and a lingering headache pulsing behind his eyes.

His former packmates had gutted the ship. They’d drained the accounts, started raiding the supplies, and might’ve taken more—if the forced opening of the safe hadn’t triggered the false reactor alarm.

Khurn had watched the playback. The panic. The scramble. The undignified sprint to the airlock. If it hadn’t been his ship, his crew, and his damn money—they might’ve made him laugh.

He took a long pull from the glass, downing half in a single motion, then swiveled toward the comms and sensor array. The displays flared to life under his claws as he searched through local traffic logs. Arrivals. Departures. Transponder data.

He frowned.

Nothing looked familiar. No ships he recognized. No flags he trusted.

“Kzethra,” he muttered, voice dry. “Looks like we might be selling the ship’s boat.”

No reply. She didn’t comment on sarcasm.

With a grunt, Khurn routed the comm alerts to his quarters, drained the rest of the bourbon, and stood slowly—shoulders heavy.

“Morning problem,” he muttered, padding off the bridge.

The lights dimmed behind him.

Rakke, If you receive this, and are still looking for a berth. There are opportunities on the Gloamhound. Seek me out at dock 13– Khurn out.

To: Khurn
Fr: Rakke

Looking for something. Oghmans seem to have scared off travellers wanting to hunt game on Marduk and Thebus. Must've been a travel advisory or something. I'll head over see what you've got.

8:00 - Blue Ice Hotel Crockett sleeps in just a short while.

For the first time in his life, he has no duties, no responsibilities, no required place to be, no duty roster to check, he is on his own to do anything he wants. Right away out of the service he joined in with the Pioneer for a brief month and found that style of ship roster was not for him. He tried out a diplomatic mission, and found that he did not like the uncertainty of that lifestyle. Now he had his own time, his own day, his own path through Charted Space.

8:30 - Blue Ice Hotel [Crockett wakens--enough is enough--freedom is only good if you make something of it] [Musing to oneself...shower and coffee time...think I'll take a bit of stroll of highport with this new freedom]

[While showering...really need to make a decision about this Sternmetal offer and then move on... Let's think about this...being on the BOARD would certainly be challenging and something I think I could be up for...but I don't see the monthly cash flow for my immediate needs right now...so think I should quit the dreaming...My polite answer will be "THANKS ...BUT NO THANKS"...let's move forward."

[Think I will get dressed...go to hotel coffee room and contact 'POSON'. Does that and sends 'POSON' message to make contact today so he can answer questions posed.]

[Sending further message to 'POSON'] For Poson "Further...I require your assistance this morning on another small matter and that is getting message to my parents on Bowman in District 268 by fast J4 courier....Please confirm when we meetup today that cost of that is 100 cr and provide confirmation of estimated time of delivery and return message back to me in Torpol c/o STARPORT ADMINISTRATION here for my attention.

Crockett is in the common room having breakfast when he gets a message on his pad.

(Poson)"Very good Sir Crockett. Message sent out this morning for you to Bowman. Anticpated arrival in that system is 1105-094. For an estimated time of return it depends on the sender. I have lined up an interview for you with Sternmetal Holdings out at Traefar. Would you prefer to do the interview tomorrow or the day after?"

[Crockett responds to POSON radio message] "Day after works best for me. So will my response from BOWMAN return to me by time of crucial Board of Directors at STERNMETAL's next meeting....say it only needs Two Days on BOWMAN for prepration of return message?

(Poson)"Very good Sir Crockett. I will set up the meeting there for you on 011. For your response back, it does entirely depend on your recipient. It is certainly possible for it to arrive in time."

[Crockett to Poson] How is my travel to Traefar to be arranged on Day 11 and will I be able to return that same day to Torpol?

(Poson)"Very good Sir Crockett, I can arrange that for you. The interview on 011, then if you are not starting work right away travel back from Traefar to home. Currently it is just over 8 days outbound, it will of course be slightly longer on the inbound trip. Orbital mechanics being what they are. The round trip ticket will cost 200Cr. I will have it billed to your room for you. Alternatively I could arrange for the interview by Holo, the downfall of that is if they need any specific tests it would delay the start of your employment."

I decided after a brief trip into seasonal orbital mechanics for the Torpol system that it is better to just give a rough number of hours (or days) rather than actual travel times.

[Crockett to Poson] Regarding trip to Traefar....we will have to do this interview by HOLO? Must I really travel to Traefar for this sort of preliminary discussion about the future? Just asking....I'd prefer to remain on Torpol for Day 011 if possible....Sorry to be of trouble.

[Crockett to 'FLORT'] I understand you are trying to rendesvous with your old friend. It has been awhile. My plans for Day 11 are somewhat unknown at specific moment. But could we say we meet tentatively at my place of lodging -- the Blue Ice Hotel on the Starport at 0900 hrs? You can send radio message to "Blue Ice Hotel, Torpol Starport" Attn: of guest James Crockett.

(Poson)"Very good Sir Crockett, I have arranged a Holo Meeting for you for your interview. It will take place on 011 at 04:00 to be in sync with Treafar's work rotation." {appointment link included in the message}

Asim

Calendar

1105-008? -- 1105-009 -- 1105-010?



Timing of events
6:00 - Morning Meeting
9:16 - Pioneer emerges from Jump
13:45 - Pioneer arrives at Starport

9:30 - Asim Starport System Control

"Attention Lab Ship Pioneer. This is Asim System Control. Welcome to the Kingdom of Drinax, the Asim system welcomes you. What business do you have here?"

"Asim System Control, PSV Pioneer."
"Standby Pilot speaking."
"The Pioneer is here at the direction of the King of Drinax, Long may he Reign."
"The Pioneer would appreciate a parking orbit near or over your main port, or as close overhead of your government headquarters on Asim as possible."
"Representatives of the ship will wish to meet with the head of government at their earliest convenience. The pioneer's pinnace, the Voyager, will provide transport of Pioneer staff to any meetings."
"Please advise the Hta'ahriy Hrakoea huiha that their Htaseihoas is aboard."

Translation: 'Please advise the First Pride of the Hrakoea clan that their First Daugther is aboard.'

"After any priority passenger transfers are complete, Pioneer would like to refuel, using the Voyager to perform the transfers, if you don't have a bulk carrier capable of docking with the Pioneer's 6 meter docking ring. Any Imperial standard ship's boat with a 6 meter round hull should fit."

"Pioneer acknowledged. We will consult and inform you of further actions. Continue on your path to Asim"

Pioneer

Calendar

1105-008? -- 1105-009 -- 1105-010?



Timing of events
6:00 - Morning Meeting
9:16 - Emerge from Jump at Asim
13:45 - Arrive at Starport

6:00 - Morning Meeting in the common area

{this is the final meeting waiting to emerge from Jump, a chance to organize anything before arriving}

Mikhel had a workout session, and off to have a coffee. The coffee tasted better, this trip. It is not hard to make bad coffee, but Rao was, somehow, making it better. The beans?

As Mikhel poured out his granola, he considered the path ahead. What was the plan for Asim? What could the scientists do? Why not start with Drinax?

Right. No money.

Mayhaps I have a few things to learn. The coffee will help with cranking up the brain...

(Eleni)"Good Morning Mikel, are you up to speed on anything we need to watch for on the surface?"

She tosses down three or five tablets, snatches one up again, tosses aside again, walks over to get food.

 "Why do they never think to check the oceans? Did you see this 'latest study' from 1054 by some random scholar? 150 million hecatres of land suitable for agricultural use..... 70% of the planet is water, what about aquaculture? How many metric tons of protein could they be harvesting safely without overburdening the ecosytem? Oh and over on Marduk they have similar circumstances but they know to harvest from the seas. That is what whats her name.... Katarina? That girl that crashed with Sultana and Athena? They knew to work the water."

She takes a bite, drinks some coffee, tapping on the pad in an unconscious imitation of Athena, muttering to herself.

"The rest of the system is almost sterile? No one has investigated how many hundreds of moons and satellites out there on five gas giants? Need to get Tep on that, what sort of gravity weirdness is happening to have five gas giants, no belts, but a garden world that no one has developed in thousands of years."

She takes another bite, then talks with her mouth full "ah uu rr wit Sherr tom" coughs, swallows, drinks "Sorry You are with Sherris tomorrow to start the investigation into that weird Foundation secret society. You are her cover. She is your helper as you investigate for unknown pathogens that have stunted the growth of anything colorful on this planet."

Rao walks in on that comment.

"I must have missed that briefing? Perhaps you could enlighten me. Or, I could go talk to Nika, if you have too much on the go." Mikhel nods at the pile of tablets.

8:00 - Bridge Watch

Mikhel closes up on the bridge for break-out watch, and checks the Library for anything on the Asim Foundation. What the heck is/was it?

Mikhel: [SKILL] Electronics (2D+2) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+2 = 10] [+6 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] 4 Minutes. Research on 'The Foundation'. Mikhel will take 40 minutes to actually read what he finds.

The Foundation - The brief notes that Mikhel finds in the library data: When the Ihatei fleet invaded Asimov in 885 (and renamed it to Asim) the Aslan picked The Foundation, a secretive group with a 10,000 year plan to rule. The world was recaptured from The Foundation in 1085 by Drinax.
Digging deeper into political history, he pieces together that there was a group of human 'truthers' who believed that the Sindalian Empire would rise again and become the Fourth Imperium. That is what their 10,000 year plan was, is? Improbably Mikhel finds current information The Foundation seems to have morphed into a business enterprise. Mikhel cannot find any public information about any accomplishments The Foundation had in their time ruling Asim for 180 years. They were obviously not successful in defending the planet when Drinax invaded 1085 and re-took control. Yet they still seem to be on the fringes of things that happen on Asim.
Mikhel thinks he needs more feet on the ground investigative work as Eleni suggested to find out how an apparently failed government is still trying to be relevant.

Harrier

Calendar

1105-008 -- 1105-009 -- 1105-010

Timing of events
04:30 - Gloamhound Mutiny
09:04 - Harrier emerges from Jump Space
12:35 - Harrier Arrives at Highport



09:05 - Emerges from Jump Space

After entering the system Harison institutes a System enquiries, checklist:
- Checking for local news - Checking for news from other systems
- Checking for potential crew
- Checking for Persons of Interest (Contacts/Friends/Enemies);
- Checking for Ship movements( trade ships military and defence boats in system)

Harison see that an old navy friend is on Torpal looking for work. Think he would be a perfect fit he fires off a message to him.

To Billy Burke plant side Torpal.
Hello old friend hope this message finds you well. I am part of the crew of a ship that could use some one with your skill set. I will say it to the rest of the crew but don’t see any problem with you joining. On a personal note it would be good to have some one watching my back there is a crew man from Drinax on board who has expressed an interest in killing me so be nice to have another set of eyes on him.
Harison Dawn on the Harrier Ship.

To Sultan
May have a possible new crew member. I have worked with a marine with a lot of skill in close combat. I can arrange a meeting if you like to see him before offering him a spot.

Billy had been working as a bouncer at one of the clubs on Torpal his physically imposing size was well suited to keeping the drunk party animals in line. He was starting to think that he never find a ship to crew on, to take him off the plant. When he received a coms message from a navel Admiral he had severed under for years in the Navy. It was odd that he said he was part of a crew and not in charge as well as having people he could not trust on board. Why out here in this part of space maybe this was some covert mission and coms messages were misleading for security. Any way who cared they probably be lot of opportunities to shoot people.

To Admiral Dawn on the Harrier
Be more than happy to enlist Sir.

Torpol Highport Crew Listings
Ryn Bask, formerly of Free Trader Antelope Laughs, looking for paid passage or regular crew work aboard ship departing Torpol.
Security, Driver, Pilot, Cook and All-Rounder. Cocktails a speciality. References available

To Ryn Bask Torpal
Good Day Mr Ryn Bask. We are small very experienced crew looking to fill out our new ship with crew mates. We are for the most part ex military and the ship is no trader what work we will be doing has a high amount of danger. So if you can handle your self and not afraid of danger there might be a spot here for you. Please tell us about your back round the good and the bad. We will be doing a back round check on you if you’re interested so please be up front with any thing that might flag as if you tell us it won’t be counted against you. Also please let us know what skills you have especially anything related to space travel and combat.
Harison Dawn on the V’hurg

As the ship heads in-system, Sultana follows his usual ritual and pulls the list of ships currently at the station. "Hmm..What are they doing out here? Interesting...." He leaned back in his chair and thought for a few minutes, then reached over and tapped a few lines into his comm board.

Khurn had woken and taken some pain pills for his swollen jaw and some human coffee to make him alert and started making a full inventory of the ship. He started going through the crew cabins of his deceased packmates some of whom had been on the ship as long as him. He was standing in the ship’s locker when the comm alarm pinged that a message had arrived.

Gloamhound: Fortuitous encountering you. Potential opportunity here, if you're at loose ends. Lunch tomorrow at Hharn-fel's? - Suraksha

Dawn: Good news. Yes, would like to meet them. An old acquaintance of mine is in dock as well. Might be able to add them." - Sultana

Kzethra, can you play or read that message for me? He asked Suraksha? A glimmer of a smile appeared Kzethra, things might be looking up.

Suraksha, glad to hear from you. I am very interested in any opportunities and will meet you at Noon Station Time. Looking forward to it – Gloamhound out.

To Harison Dawn:
I appreciate the hail, Harison. 16 years as a Free Trader in the Reach can vouch for me being not afraid of danger. The Antelope Laughs captained by Vas Yurridan, ex- Navy. You might have heard of her.

I am willing to take risks if the reward warrants. I am a decent spacecraft pilot, gunner and comms operator, and was the ship's security aboard the Antelope. Shall we meet?

Ryn

Ryn, intrigued, left his well worn place at the bar, and walked to where he might see the V'Hurg, and learn more about this ship which may become an offer of work.

Alerted by Sultana's exclamation, Silas followed his gaze to the Gloamhound. "Sultana, how do you know her? I have an old friend aboard."

12:35 - Torpol Highport

Silas had groomed himself to disembark, and was wearing his customary duster jacket over white shirt and had foregone his pistol and sword to respect Torpol's regulations. He was keen to join Harison on the shopping trip, and hoped to sample the local fare. There were rumours of a cocktail, the Torpol Ghostfire, and he wondered if he might find a bar that would serve this.

Sultana glanced over at Silas in the other chair. "Oh.. Sorry about that, Lane/Goldvane. I'm not used to being in a group room." He taps the Gloamhounds's name on the ship list with his finger. "I've got an old acquaintance on board as well. Small universe." There's a small beep from his console and he opens up the incoming reply. "Ah, good, Khurn's available. Maybe we can recruit the Gloamhound." He turns back to face Silas. "What do you know of the ship? Anything that'd make it a problem having them with us?"

"Khurn Svikulf? Of the Gloamhound?" Silas paused to recollect details. "I dragged him off a stricken liner! We've been keeping in contact ever since!" Silas had a bond with the Vargr, and admitted to himself that Khurn was one inspiration for throwing off the boredom and hierarchy of the Navy and Scouts. The stories he would tell gave Silas hope for a more interesting life. Weird, at this time, on the first task under the letter of marque, that Khurn would turn up. "I bet he's broke..."

"I have another potential crew hire too. We will set up a meeting time for each one or see them all together to save time? Then lock the 3 in the room with a sword who ever lives we hire or we save that last part for the next batch of recruits?"

Goldvane laughed heartily at Harison's joke. "We're not bloodthirsty cut-throats, are we?" Silas got back on track, "Interviewing one at a time would be practical."

"I think we're a bit more civilized than that, although we don't have to let others know, of course. I've tried a few jokes along that line, but they haven't landed very well." He shrugs. "I agree, anyways, one at a time is probably best. That way we can weed out any we find unsuitable without it feeling like a competition between them. I've scheduled Khurn for noon at Hharn-fel's. Do we want to meet one of the others before, and one after? Or both before, so we can use lunch as an excuse to cut one short if we need to?"

"You have tried and to very little success I might add, there is a time and a place for them and after some threatens to kill me that’s not the place for jokes. Any way moving in I’ll message the 2 potential hires and arrange for them to meet us at the restaurant before noon."

"Shall I sign you up for another marathon to remind how our relationship has usually been?" He smiles and raises his drink in a toast to Harison. "But, if you prefer, while we're crewing together I can keep it on a more even keel."

"I’ll start training now so and can we get the little gold masks for next year run. That way it will hid our shame of. It improving."

To Ryn Bask Torpal
Please meet us at 11:00 on the 10th in Hharn-fel's for a chat about joining on we will be leaving port soon so this will not be long drawn out affair. If you can’t be ready to leave soon after I understand and wish you well on your travels but if you can’t make it I wish you luck in the interview. Ask for the crew of the V’hurg at the front.
Harison Dawn on the V’hurg

Ryn's transceiver pinged while he stood watching the V'Hurg through the port glass. He ran a hand through his hair. That ship isn't much bigger than the Antelope, but it's military spec, aggressive looking, no make that I know anything about,he mused to himself. One could create a lot of trouble in a ship like that.

He read the message, Keen to move on, somewhere to be, huh? and murmured as he tapped out a response. So, am I. Time to be earning again. Just so long as they aren't deadfeeds or filter-busters we should be good. And if the cred is good...

To Harison Dawn on the V'Hurg
Thank you. Can be ready to leave immediately if the pay suits the work. See you tomorrow 11:00 at Hharn-fel's

To Billy Burk plant side Torpal.
Hi Billy could you meet me and the rest of the crew at 10:00 on the 10th at the Hharn-fel's for a chat about joining on we will be leaving port soon so this will not be long drawn out affair. I hope you can be ready to leave soon after. Can’t wait to have you aboard old friend.
Harison Dawn on the V’hurg

To Admiral Dawn on the Harrier
See you then Sir over and out.

Harison returns to the terminal and search’s for 400t Subsidised Liners in system particularly ones that fairies passengers to Torpal for all the entertainment the plant is know for taking note of who owns them private or commercial and were they come from. Also looking up companys that advertises transport to and from Torpal for holidays what ships are use prioritising Subsidised Liners.

Next in Harison list was reaching out to sellers on the station looking for at a minimum Improved Vacc Suits of Tec Level 10 or more. Inquiring about sizes and costs.

And the last item on the list was to contact ship repairs on the station to see if they had the means to repair the harrier if we should return at a later date.

Silas worked with Harison to assess and catalogue required repairs to the V'Hurg as he was the most eager to see her returned to her former aesthetic and practical state. He'd been over the ship in great detail during jump, pacing up and down, doing minor repairs and cleaning where he might. He hemmed and hummed about the missile launcher; with multiple gunners aboard it would be useful to have full capacity firepower, but this was probably low on their priorites.

Search results for Harison. 1 Many subsidized liners come through Torpol as part of the Florian Trade Route. None that ply only the Torpol cluster, most from the Borderlands systems through Torpol towards the Florian League, or the opposite way towards the Imperium. 2Harison does come up with an unusual find of Doubting the Moment a 200 ton Free Trader. The reason it pings on him is they are listed as working for Tobia Uncovered. Which one of their reporters was on the Pioneer from Marduk to Torpol. 3 Harison also finds a ship called the Paternity Inc. which is an 800 subsidized liner that runs a route that he has an instinct that it might be doing more than simple passenger runs. 4 Harison does not find any ships that are dedicated for tourists. 5 There are no TL10 Vacc Suits available, only TL8.

After seeing that the Doubting the Moment ship was in the area, while not overly interested in the going ones of the Tobia Uncovered. With one of its reporters only recently have contacted with the Pioneer might be good to see what they’re doing here. Harison looks into local news to see if there is any thing going on that would have them here for a story.

A search of the news show that Tobia Uncovered is searching the Torpol Cluster and beyond for a new documentary series on Water Worlds of the Reach. Marduk in the Oghma cluster is reported to be part of the project and the Provosts of Torpol are welcoming them with open arms.

Now the Paternity Inc. this ship might suit his purpose. Harison try’s to find out more information on the ship. It’s owner where it came from, it’s next port of call and any cargo it might have listed. He looks to see if there trying to see any cargo or if there looking to buy any too.

This would need a broker roll to get detailed information but the ship appears to follow the Florian Trade Route.

Broker roll for more info
Task Difficult (10)
Taking time +2
Skill +3
Roll 8 (3-5)
Total 13 average success (+3 effect)

Harison does a more detailed check of the ship records in Torpol. Paternity Inc. is a small mercantile company that has a 800 Brilliance Class Long Liner called [The Paternity of Stars that seems to have more cargo space than normal for that type of ship. (The Brilliance Class ship is in FG, Behind the Claw) Harison is of the opinion that they are smugglers of some sort. Gani Laagir is the Captain of The Paternity of Stars

Free & Clear?