Main / 1104-365

Calendar

1104-364 -- 1104-365 -- 1105-001

Unity

Calendar

1104-364 -- 1104-365 -- 1105-001

Timing of events
6:00 - Morning Meeting on Unity
8:00 - Meeting with Captain Solis and Provost Shala
8:00 - Meeting with Crockett, Silas and Mihel
??? - ???

Speculative morning thoughts

[Crockett is remaining on board the UNITY and hoping it will become clear to him how he is to get to the floating palace tomorrow and meetup with the original 'gang of five' for meeting with the King]

1104-365 7:00 - Unity Bridge Comms Center

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSV Pioneer
O Grp proposed. Results to Discuss. Unity 10:30.

1104-365 7:30 - Floating Palace Royal Dock

Mikhel sends an update message to Crockett, on landing on the Royal Dock:

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSP Voyager
O Grp Update. On FP. Available anytime before 10:30. Ack.

Upon arrival to the Royal Docks on the Floating Palace Captain Solis and Eleni walk over to the Ship of Unity for the arranged meeting with Provost Shala. Mikhel accompanied the Science Team, in case Crockett was available at short notice. The airlock opens.

[upon receipt of Mikhel's radio message responds] M Dromah, Vessel 'Pioneer' from J Crockett
Upon arrival Unity make your way to galley, I am there now awaiting your visit.

1104-365 8:00 - Unity Common room/meeting area

Solis, Eleni, Silas from the Pioneer

(Admin Aide Dar)"Welcome Captain Solis. We are very appreciative of you attending this planning session with us. she smiles and nods, then turns to Eleni, "You must be the Captains Aide. I will be glad to provide you with transcripts that have been suitably vetted after the meeting. We will not need you this time. I appreciate your work. I will inform you when the Captain is ready to return."

With a slightly raised brow, Athena said, "Your message indicated a query from Provost Shala on my previous work. I have brought Doctor Eleni Kagaragu," with emphasis on the doctor part "with me as she has collaborate and co-authored previous research with me. If this meeting is not related to my work, and the work I have done with others, it would be wise to indicate that now."

Adding a slight nod to the others with her, she added, "Silas is pilot and crew on the Pioneer and has offered to escort me here, and Mikhel Dromah has a meeting with another on the Unity, I believe. You may direct them as needed."

(Admin Aide Dar)"Welcome Doctor Kagaragu. When Provost Shala offered the invitation to Captain Solis I am certain that she thought it would be presumptive to ask for other members of the scientific staff to join. turning to Athena "I can say with all certainty that this meeting is solely based on your scientific credentials and your very well deserved reputation Captain Solis. I will go tell Provost Shala that you are ready to begin."

Admin Aide Dar exits the room

"An aid?" mused Athena, glancing at Eleni. "Perhaps one of the few things I do miss about having grad students about." She gave a small sigh and lightly rubbed her cheek. "This was originally proposed to me to be a query about my previous work, but now it is a planning session? I despise planning. Perhaps it is good you are here, Eleni."

As Eleni and Athena sit at the table a tall woman comes in carrying three data pads. "Welcome to the Ship of Unity, I am Provost Shala. Doctor Kagaragu thank you for joining Captain Solis and myself in this conversation. She slides a data pad over to each of you "Have you ever visited the Thalassa system?

She pauses while Athena and Eleni look over the details. Admin Aide Dar returns with coffee, tea, and breakfast danish.

"I've been to numerous systems since my time on the Pioneer as both researcher and Captain." Athena took a sip of coffee. Was this cup number two or three today? "What's the nature of your inquiry on the Thalassa system in particular?"

(Provost Shala)"This is a sensitive matter you understand. In the Thalass system there are huge floating cities. They are built on large rafts of floating woven organic matter. Unlike here, gestures out to the Floating Palace'They are not restricted to technology keeping their cities afloat. She pauses "at least not once the secrets are unlocked. The Thalassans guard the secret of how they genetically modified their native plants to grow and perform the way they do now.

taking a sip of coffee looking Captain Solis and Eleni.

Athena set down her coffee with a small, brief smile. Two and half. It would be three cups once this one was empty. Carefully, she said, "Although few, the data points you provide are significant enough to conjecture where you may want this conversation to lead. Perhaps you can provide the premise of your visit to Drinax and your end goal; however, grand as my curiosity is among many things in this universe, it is, unfortunately, often limited by funding."

"The benefit of remaining academic and being captain of my own ship," continued Athena as she sought out a danish to put on her plate, "is allowing myself to choose my own research. The corporate world may provide stability of financing, but they dictate curiosity."

She took a bite of the danish and another sip of coffee. Two and three quarters. "All that aside, there are no secrets in science. With the right tools, any knowledge can be unlocked. As the ancient saying goes, 'Science is a candle in the dark'. Given my research, hypothetically speaking on this matter, yes, I do believe I could shine light on that secret if things aligned to allow it."

(Provost Shala)"I am glad to hear that. We have gathered a couple of details that might help you solve this puzzle. passes along a new unmarked data pad "This is the primary research facility that we can determine there on Thalass. It is run by the government, the lead researcher for the bio-engineered rafts is a geneticist Dr. Thorkin. He is a very clever man. If you can get to him and bring his research to Torpol, or better yet, find a way to ..... persuade.... him to come to Torpol with you it could be very helpful for your prospects.

pauses as Athena reads the data pad

from Athena's Character Discovery. Enemy #1 from research - Genetist Dr Thorkin, Stole Athena's samples while on Folin in 1071, later claimed it was "lost in the confusion of Athena taking over as Captain of the Pioneer"

(Provost Shala)"I believe you have a private meeting with King Oleb tomorrow. I sense that he will be offering you a contract of some sort. Perhaps he is feeling that Asim needs more attention now. You are the type of person he would like. Bravado but not overbearing. What I offer you is a chance to do the work you want to do, assist a neighboring system, and demonstrate to your potential new benefactor that you will look for..... innovative... ways to achieve your goals.

Athena tapped the table absently as she considered the new information. A minor demon from her past, but a thorny one nonetheless. How to work this to her advantage without letting her simmering annoyances of old transgressions get to her? A lead researcher, indeed. On her stolen research. She downed the last of her coffee. Three.

"Thank you for the information, Provost Shala," said Athena, cordially. "As with any new data, I will need time to analyze it before coming to a result and deciding my next query. If you will allow, I would see the outcome of the meeting with King Oleb before giving a final verdict on my plans. But," continued Athena, her tapping moved to the data pad, "I am intrigued by the proposal. I will give you that."

Captain Solis was a near stranger to Silas and much of what was spoken of during the meeting was new to him. More yet had been revealed in this strange Palace of seemingly endless opportunity. As an impartial witness Silas kept a poker face throughout except to exclaim a congenial, "Fascinating!" regarding the Thalassan floating cities. He found he was enjoying being in the shadow of these Travellers and witness to events unfolding. Afterward in brief he thanked Solis for the opportunity to join and joked about "...whatever great chance might befall us next!" as they moved on to the next rendezvous.

(Provost Shala)"I would be glad to speak with you again tomorrow evening after your meeting with King Oleb during the day. I have one with him shortly. I will say as you consider your options. We do have excellent facilities on Torpol for all sorts of trade goods. Some of which need to be kept away from any prying eyes. Also I am certain you will find our customs and importation division glad to assist you in restraining anyone who has violated any legal provisions that need to be pursued. Provost Shala slides the unmarked tablet over to Athena for her to keep and stands up.

Admin Aide Dar comes into the room.

(Admin Aide Dar)"Doctor Kagaragu, Captain Solis, if there is anything else?"

(Provost Shala)"Dar, as you show our guests out remind James Crockett that he is part of our party when we meet with King Oleb at 12:00"

Admin Aide Dar leads the three of your group out the door.

As they walk back to the Voyager, Athena asks Eleni, simply, "What do you remember about Thorkin?"

(Eleni)"He was competent but unimaginative. He was easily able to follow a chain of reasoning but not able to make the leap to the idea of how to apply something to a new problem. If he is the person who built that bio-tech then my bet is he started with your notes. If we can get our hands on the research he claims he did then we can prove it belongs to you, well to the Pioneer."

the three move from the Unity to the Voyager

1104-365 8:00 - Unity Galley

Mikhel and Crockett

Admin Aide Dar leads Mikhel into the Galley to meet Crockett.

"How's it going, Jim? Thanks for meeting on such short notice. Transportation arrangements were early or too late, so I went for early. Sorry if that messed up your timings."

Mikhel will pass a thumb drive to Crockett. It will contain a similar report to the one Unity provided to Pioneer, but for the third contact, it will only say there is an object in the far edge of the system, "details TBD". The distance and direction are not included.

"Three things of any note came up on Pioneer's scan. One is a ship, station-keeping near the gas giants. We think it is an SDB watching over the gas giants."
"The second might be an abandoned asteroid station. Not sure what that is, but after the New Year event, it might be worth checking out."

Mikhel pauses, with a frown.

"The last was at extreme range, and we are not sure, yet, what that is. We are thinking Drinax Control may need to be consulted, and I will be making inquiries with them directly upon leaving the Unity."

[Crockett responds to greeting from Mikhel] I'm over the moon of Marduk, thanks. Welcome both of you to the Unity. How do you like my transport vessel I found back on Torpol there? ha ha ... I see you haven't been wasting any time with suggestion I gave you to check the sensors. The check at your end seems to have turned up some interesting data. I will check the thumb-drive after you leave, but meanwhile what are you thinking given this information? I have checked as best I could and have found no audio monitors in this section of the ship so our discussions are fairly secure. I like the two Provosts here and find they are mainly concerned with trade and have no other driving priorities to be concerned about. They've been very welcoming to me anyway.

"If you recall the discussion last night, I mentioned asteroid mining. And then, the scan last night suggests there is an existing facility already in place. I'm thinking it could, I repeat, could give the system a head start, if we entice a few prospectors to take a look."
"Other than that, we'd have a bit of a trip to check out the other target, with questionable return for the time and expense."
"I'm heading out to recce as much of the Floating Palace as I'm allowed to see. Maybe ask a few questions. If you have time, and nothing else to do, we could put four eyes on things, instead of two."
"At 11 hundred hours, the science crew has a meeting with the Scholar's Tower staff, to which I'm invited. I have a few medical inquiries I wish to pursue."

Sure. I can be an extra set of eyes with our good doctor. Should we leave now?

Mikhel gives a thumbs-up.

[prior to leaving the Unity with Mikhel...Crockett seeks out Administrative Aide Dar and coordinates with her his plan to go with Mikhel now and meet up with the Provost's group outside the meeting area with the King at 1145 hours (15 minutes prior their audience with King Olaf)...and seeks her approval of that plan]

(Admin Aide Dar)"I will radio you if there are any changes Sir Crockett. Enjoy your explorations. Be sure to wear your best."

[Before departing Ship of Unity...Crockett checks his cabin/stateroom/lodgings?? again to make sure he has notebook, writing utensil (writing pad of future) needed for meeting with King, mobile phone communication device and one last look in mirror to check how great he looks in his new cr500 suit he purchased back on Marduk.

1104-365 17:00 - Unity Bridge Comms Centre

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSV Pioneer
O Grp proposed. Looking for Results from your meeting(s). Verbal at your earliest convenience?

1104-365 17:00 - UNITY

Crocket on Unity to Pioneer M. Dromah
Copy your request for asap meeting aboard UNITY
I am aboard UNITY now and would welcome your attendance.
OUT

1104-365 18:00 - UNITY

Mikhel arrives at the Unity Airlock asking for M. Crockett.

1104-365-Unity to Pioneer Attn MDromah Afternoon meeting re trade follows here - Crockett

14:50 - Meeting in the Control Center with Baroness Hault-Miller and Crockett
"So Baroness Hault-Miller...Thank you so much for seeing me....I should explain that while I am really only a retired Naval Marine with the Imperial Navy most recently, I am travelling with a group who are seeking new trade opportunities and have asked for this meeting with you as I hear you are knowledgeable about possible opportunities here on Drinax.It is a new year for all and with it we anticipate travelling a bit throughout this region and wondering what type of goods might be of value here to those of you who live on the Floating Palace and what things you might have of trade value elsewhere?"
(Baroness Hault-Miller)"Sir Crockett. It is good to see you being proactive and coming to see me before attempting any new mass trading attempts. Certainly if you find a cargo that you feel the Kingdom will be interested in you should bring it to our attention. King Oleb XVI, long may he reign, has a good mind as you saw during your time at the Court. He is good hearted and wants what is best for his people. It can be challenging for others to see what is appropriate as trade opportunities. In the last six months I have turned away several disappointed ambitious independent traders who brought the wrong type of cargo to Drinax. The Baldo earlier this year tried with a cargo full of 'the latest in fashion and furnishing from the Gazulin subsector. He left with his hold still full, the only credits changing hands for fuel.
She picks up a data pad and starts moving about the room again. "If you find something that you think will be of interest to the Kingdom do message me or Ranchando and we will advise on the suitability. You have met Ranchando at the Bazaar?

1104-365 18:00 - UNITY

[Crockett appears to greet M Dromah] "Greetings. Great to see you 'Doc'. (I can call you anything but "Sir" right? LoL) Shall we just chat out here or would you like to grab something in the galley? Assuming you are on a schedule then let's chat here.
I did have an interesting meeting with the Baroness this afternoon and I got strong impression that RANCHERO is well-connected as far as she is concerned and our go-to person if we want direction on trade opportunities...and the fellow to MAKE IT HAPPEN.
What have you learned?

"I'm not on a schedule tonight. The next timing on my schedule is the Royal Run tomorrow, not quite at O-dark hundred. 8AM, local."
"The Tower tour was a smoke and mirrors show. We saw stuff, but nothing giving us anything I thought useful. No names to buttonhole for more info or help. You can have a copy of the info package, and see if I missed anything."

"We met the Prince. Not as healthy an individual as I'd expect, considering he was supposedly under TL15 rehab. Something is very interesting, and Doctor Solis might become involved. It will depend on tomorrow's meeting."

"The biggest surprise is who is related to whom. The head of the Scholar's Tower is the mother of the Prince? And we have no idea of her influence on the King. To whom is the Princess related? The place is a mine-field of social catastrophies waiting to happen."

"As for trade, I have no good feelings about Ranchando, and the more distance we can keep from him, the better I'll sleep. Look at this place. There is no economy. This place needs a complete overhaul. Getting anything going will need money. The mining station will most likely need an ovehaul, before it can be used. And we don't have a history, yet, to say why it isn't working. If we want to help, it is a mountain we'll be climbing, in full rucks."

Copy that. Not a happy picture. So you are back to the lovely labship now and we will see what tomorrow holds. The two of us are on same wavelength. I am happy to provide some security backup if we head for this distant asteroid of yours; join the Harrier crew we've learned about; or some other useful use of our time with an opportunity for each of us to enjoy ourselves and make some money perhaps on the side....Otherwise I intend to head back to Torpol with or without you and pursue something more secure I fear. See you at 11:45 tomorrow at the Palace my friend.

"We can only wait for the offer, and see how good, or bad, it might be." Mikhel ponders for a moment or two.

"I am not in favour of any ship that is not in, at least, good shape for jump travel. I can foresee accompanying you back to Torpol, in the short run, to check on mining options. This will take some effort to negotiate, if I don't have some hint of Drinaxian interest. It might still take a lot. I can see if I have anyone on the Sternmetal Horizons facility in Torpol that might be interested in a new venture.

As to my position on the Pioneer, it isn't a bad gig, just not ideal. It also depends on what the Captain/Doctor wants to do. She is getting pulled in a few directions, not just for possibilities on the morrow. More fallout to await."

Pioneer

Calendar

1104-364 -- 1104-365 -- 1105-001

Timing of events
6:00 - Morning Meeting on Pioneer
??? - ???
??? - ???

In the morning the crew wakes up and gets ready for their day.

Athena needs a ride down to the Floating Palace to be at the Unity at 8:00

Athena, Mikhel, and Hernández will have a meeting at the Scholar's Tower at 11:00

1104-365 6:00 - Morning Meeting on Pioneer

Pioneer Communications, this is Drinax control. I have several messages for you. Scholar Voha will be attending the meeting with Captain Solis at 11:00 at the Scholar's Tower. A guide from the Royal Docks will be provided. Imperial Consul Thao Poloc has scheduled a meeting with Admiral Harison and Lieutenant Sultana at 9:00 in the Great Hall. For Silas Lane Lady Hil has granted your request for an audience. She will be available for you to present yourself in her quarters at 18:00.

Drinax control, this is Pioneer. Messages received, thank you.

Sir Lt Sultana forwards their messages to Captain Solis and Silas Lane, then writes to Admiral Dawn, "Admiral, you and I have an appointment at 0900 in the Great Hall with Imperial Consul Thao Poloc. I'd like to meet with you in advance to discuss it, at your convenience. - Sultana"

Mikhel checks in with the bridge to see if anyone took a swing at the scan data. If the Morning Meeting is passed over, he will also forward the request for a lift to the Floating Palace, after checking with the crew for any medical needs. If the crew is healthy, and not in need of consultations, Mikhel is planning on Recce by walking around the Floating Palace, until the meeting at the Scholar's Tower.

Overnight Data from deep system scans. The expected Belt, and 4 gas giants and their moons are there. Mikhel finds it unusual that there is not a bustling activity out in the Belt or the various moons. His scans do pick up three things of interest for him. 1 - There is a SDB like A Bold Jewel that they were greeted by upon entering the system. It is not broadcasting anything. It does seem to be on stationary guard duty far out beyond the normal Jump Point. Perhaps guarding anyone from using the gas giants for fuel? 2 - There is what seems to be an abandoned mining facility/space port in the Belt. Distance and solar shadow zones prevent any better analysis. 3 - There is an abandoned Far Trader beyond the farthest gas giant, almost out to the Ort cloud. It looks to be a Marva class, which fits the history of Drinax being an old abandoned system.

Mikhel will pass on to the Captain and Sultana the results of the scan:
- One ship station-keeping near the gas giants,
- the possibility of an abandoned asteroid mining operation, and
- a possible salvage target, a 200dT 'Empress Marava'-Class Far Trader, nearly out of system.
The trader will have to be monitored to estimate travel for investigation. If the ship is viable, it would be a good ship for moving cargo (61 dT) around the near local systems. It is possible it is new, but could be 200+ years old, as well.

To Sir Lt Sultana
No need for a meeting about a meeting to which I won’t be in attendance. I am sure you have it well in hand. Also my days of being summoned by Imp bureaucracy are behind me.
Harison Dawn

To Harison - Understood. Sultana out

Sultana massages the bridge of his nose while considering the situation, then moves off to his quarters to prepare for the day.

Silas is woken by Vix at the scheduled time, apprising him of the communications from Sultana. He tends to his morning routine and has the AI companion reply for him. "Thank you Sultana. I'll meet Lady Hil tonight." He adds another message to all Pioneer crew. "I'll pilot Voyager today as ferry to and from the Floating Palace. Departure times by arrangement, thank you. Let me know if any of you need an escort at the Floating Palace." Silas felt that he may as well explore more of the palace, but as he had no business of his own, might tag along with another.

To Silas: I will need to be at the Floating Palace by 0730 for a meeting at the Unity by 0800. I have another meeting at the Scholars Tower at 1100 and do not expect to return to the Pioneer until after lunch or later. I will check to see if any of the other scientists wish to join the meeting at the Unity, but if they decline, it would be reasonable to have an escort as you offered as this is a new and unknowable location for me. Or, I suppose, if you like talk of science you may join as well. Either is acceptable. - Captain Solis

To Eleni: I am unsure what you and Sherris are currently planning, but Provost Shala of Torpol wishes to meet and discuss my work over breakfast. I'm extending the invitation to you and any other collaborators to attend if you wish. A tour of the Scholars Tower is at 1100 as well if that has not been passed on to you. - Athena.

1104-365 7:00 - Aboard Pioneer

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSV Pioneer
O Grp proposed. Results to Discuss. Unity 10:30.

To: Captain Solis, Lt Sir Sultana, Executive Officer, PSV Pioneer (Internal Comms Only)
CC: M. H. Dawn, M. S. Lane, Bridge Watch
Captain,
Two items are forwarded for future consideration and action:
1. An interesting development may allow an idea brought up at our meeting last night to be implemented with minimal effort and expense. Data received from the results of the Detailed Scan late last night indicates the possible existence of an abandoned mining facility/space port in the asteroid belt in this system. Further examination of the data, and inquiries with Drinax, are being conducted. A report will be made available ASAP.
2. The discovery of what appears to be a derelict ship on the extreme edge of the system may be a salvage opportunity.
a. Scan data suggested that this is a 200dT 'Empress Marava' class Far Trader. Condition is unknown.
b. Further tracking of this ship should advise us if it is under power and navigating intentionally, or not. Once it is determined that this ship is adrift, a discussion on recovery/salvage is proposed.
NOTE: There could be a requirement to report this ship to Drinax Control, and conduct a rescue process. Interstellar Law will have to be consulted. We may be able to claim salvage rights as the finder.
c. Recovery of this ship may require a few weeks travel to/from, and parts. Additionally, a pilot and an engineer should be considered for repair to minimum function and as a prize crew. Alternatively, remote control or auto-pilot may be the expedient means of returning the ship to Drinax, as even if the maneuver drive is functional, 1G max would be a long trip back.

Replay to Mikhel
Thats a good find are we sure it’s abandoned and not running silent out there trying not to be noticed if so there not doing a great job. I’ll have a look online and see if any of those type ships are missing and what the salvage laws are around this space.

Checking online reports and news on an information on missing or damaged class far trades operating or expected in the area.
Electronics (computers)
Skill+stat = +2
Taking my time =+2
Difficulty = Average
Roll 4 = 8 marginal success
Looking up local law on salvage
Looking up Salvage Laws
Unskilled + stat = -1
Taking my time = +2
Difficulty = Routine
Roll 7 = 8 Average Success

To Captain Solis: Thank you for the offer of joining you to the Unity visit. I will transfer and accompany you. - Silas

To Mikhel: Excellent work on the long range scan. I'll test some models for a course to the stray ship. I'm interested to see if any time may be saved via a grav slingshot or other tack. - Silas

Thank you for the information, Doctor. We will have to figure out what to do with it for our next steps. - Captain Solis.

Athena Solis: [SKILL] Advocate (2D+3) (vs Difficulty 8) [2d6+3 = 12]
[ +4 Effect] [Average SUCCESS]

Athena Solis: [SKILL] Diplomat (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 8) [2d6+3 = 12]
[ +4 Effect] [Average SUCCESS]

Results for Athena's and Harison's searches Harison can compare what he knows of the Imperium. If there is not an active search and rescue out for a particular craft then it can be thought of as salvage. If no one has put a claim marker on a derelict ship any prospector can haul it to the nearest Starport and make a claim on it for themselves. Harison looking for local laws finds it curious that effectively it is up to the King for who gets salvage rights. Harison can spot one time that Ranchando was refused the rights to a ships boat. Harison cannot find any claims on Salvage for any ships in the Drinax system. He can guess that this means either no one knows about the object on your scans, or no one has claimed it at least.

Athena knows from her legal background that salvage rights almost always net the finder 10-20% of the cost of the vessel found if not outright ownership. Athena also knows from dealing with many different system governments that traditionally Starport Control is who authorizes ownership over a derelict ship. Once the process starts it can take several months to complete, though sometimes waviers are granted to begin restoration work when it seems to be a clear case.

Sometime this morning, Mikhel needs a ride down to the Floating Palace. Perhaps transport for the various crew should be 'organized'. If anyone announces departure schedules, Mikhel would jump at the chance. He'll have to hang up the "Doctor's Out" sign on the Sick Bay door before leaving...

Transit times from parking orbit to Floating Palace?

Transit from the Pioneer to one of the landing docks is about 15-30 minutes. The Pioneer is just outside of the atmosphere.

Voyager scheduled to depart 7:10 for the Floating Palace. Tentative return 14:00. Other times by arrangement. - Silas

Mind if I hitch a lift instead of taking the Suraksha? - Sultana

1104-365 7:10 - Aboard Pioneer

Voyager departs with Silas piloting and Athena, Eleni, Sultana, and Mikhel on board to visit the Unity and the meeting with the Provost.

1104-365 7:15 - Aboard Voyager

So what are our thoughts on this maybe-derelict ship out there? If it's real, how did we detect it and no one else has before now?

"I'm thinking that nobody has noticed it, as there doesn't appear to be any effort to intercept it. There is a ship out by the gas giants, station-keeping. It would be the obvious ship to go out. If it has been intercepted in the past, was it too damaged to bring back? And if we are the only people who know it is there, it is because we got really lucky with the scan I did, using the Advanced Sensors on the Pioneer. I am surprised that the Pioneer has the best sensors in the system, if that is so, as the System Defence Boats should have as good, or better, than us."
"It floated through my head that the ship may have been out there since the big dust-up with the Aslan. However, if the ship is a Marava class, that ship design has only been around for a decade or less? According to Jaynes All the Universe's Ships, the Marava got it's type certificate less than a decade ago."
"Now, if we can get to it, and we can repair it, it is a free cargo ship. Book price for a new one is MCr60. If we want to move things around, it isn't a bad start for cargo. Jump-2 makes it really useful for quick trips to Asim and back, or a hop over to Torpol."
"Personally, the ship is much more useful than the POS Harrier we might get from the King. And less strings and obligations."

Sultana leans back in his chair. "Hmm. If it is a derelict, it's got to be in pretty bad shape. No one just walks away from a usable ship. Unless maybe the crew all died of a disease before they could make it back in-system? Or, you know, an alien parasite infected one of them, then burst free and massacred the rest of the crew, and is now just waiting out there in hibernation for its next batch of victims to arrive." He grins in amusement before continuing. "Anyways, I can look up the local salvage laws when I get some time, for both it and the mining facility. See what our limits are."

1104-365 7:30 - Floating Palace Royal Dock

Mikhel sends an update message to Crockett, on landing on the Royal Dock:

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSP Voyager
O Grp Update. On FP. Available anytime before 10:30. Ack.

Upon arrival to the Royal Docks on the Floating Palace Captain Solis and Eleni walk over to the Ship of Unity for the arranged meeting with Provost Shala. Mikhel accompanied the Science Team, in case Crockett was available at short notice. The airlock opens.

1104-365 17:00 - Pioneer Bridge

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSV Pioneer
O Grp proposed. Looking for Results from your meeting(s). Verbal at your earliest convenience?

Crockett on Unity to Pioneer M. Dromah
Copy your request for asap meeting aboard UNITY
I am aboard UNITY now and would welcome your attendance.
OUT

Mikhel checks in with the Bridge Watch, to verify any changes to the distant contact (Movement, attempts to contact, signs of life). Also, are any Drinax ships moving toward the mining station or the distant target.
Mikhel will also check with Scout Lane, for transport to the Floating Palace before 18:00 hrs.

Mihkel Dromah: [SKILL] Electronics(Sensors) (2D+2) (vs Difficulty 6) [2d6+2+2 = 10]
[ +4 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] 40 Minutes checking. For Detailed Sensor Scan, with +2 DM for Advanced Sensors.

Mikhel will leave finishing the scan to the Bridge Watch, and head to the spoke to catch Silus on the way down to the Floating Palace. There should be another scan, or two, from the day shift, to trend any movement, if there is any. Plot a path, and intercept, if there is any way to get out that far (m-drives don't work beyond 1000d?).

1104-365 17:30 - Pioneer

Silus and Mikhel head down to the Floating Palace for their respective meetings.

Free & Clear

1104-361 -- 1104-365 -- 1105-001

Timing of events
9:00 - Start of Day
10:00 - Jump Emergence Watch
20:05 - Emerge from Jump

1104-365 - 09:00

(Shipwide broadcast) We should be emerging from jump later today. We don't want to loiter around in empty space, people. We want to get back into jump space as quickly as possible; don't cut corners, but I want everyone to look lively. Our client has expressed a desire for speed, so time is money. Let's make it quick.

1104-365 - 13:00 Bridge

During the wait for emergence, Jeet goes through the software on the ship's main computer. This is just a look at the code in the Launch Solution program, not attempting any edits.

Jeet: [SKILL] Electronics (computers) (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 8) [2d6+4 = 14] [+6 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] Analysis of Launch Solution program. 5 Hours.

1104-365 - 20:05

The Free & Clear emerges from Jump unscathed an in deep space, devoid of any other objects visible nearby.

Jeet: [SKILL] Engineer (2D+2) (vs Difficulty 6) [2d6+2 = 9] [+3 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] Post-Jump drive checks. 30 Minutes

Jeet: [SKILL] Electronics (sensors) (2D+3) (vs Difficulty 6) [2d6+3-2 = 10] [+4 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] Detailed Sensor Scan of empty space (Civilian Grade Sensors -2DM. Lidar, Radar) 40 Minutes. Limited information out to 25,000 kms, minimal beyond that.

Analysis of scan results can wait, if nothing comes up as an alert. Analysis can take up to 6 hours. The Astrogation check will allow backtracking to this point, later. Jeet hopes.

Kalidaren: [SKILL] Astrogation - Deep Space to Marduk (2D+5) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+2 = 11] [+7 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] Jump Duration [148 + 6d6 = 172]

Jeet: [SKILL] Engineer (2D+2) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+2 = 5] [+1 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] Firing Jump drive. 40 Minutes Distracted by Scans?

Cal: [SKILL] Engineer (2D+3) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+3 = 10] [+6 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] Double-checking Jeet's work.

1104-365 - 22:00 Engine room

Jeet? Always double check that both port and starboard cadmium II landing cushions are demagnetized. You need to keep your mind on your task here. Complete focus.
He pauses.
It looks good. Punch us through.

1104-365 - 23:00 Bridge

Jeet: [SKILL] Electronics (sensors) (2D+3) (vs Difficulty 8) [2d6+3 = 9] [+1 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] Analysis of Sensor Scan data of empty space. 1 Hour.

Drinax

Calendar

1104-364 -- 1104-365 -- 1105-001

Timing of events
8:30 - Mikhel and Crockett recon, visit with Ops control
9:00 - Meeting with Imperial Consul Thao Poloc in the Diplomatic Quarter. Sultana and Harison invited
10:00 - Meeting with Lady Hil and Iskavrin Antelios Drax-Amadith
11:00 - Arrival at Scholar's Tower, Solis, Mikhel, Hernández
12:00 - Meeting with King Oleb, Crockett, Provost Shala, Khearl, other locals
12:00 - First attempt at meeting with Iskavrin and Harison
15:00 - Meeting between Baroness Hault-Miller and Crockett
15:00 - Meeting on Voyager after Scholar's Tower
15:00 - Second attempt at meeting with Iskavrin and Harison
17:00 - Coordinating Messages after a day of meetings
18:00 - Meeting with Lady Hil and Silas


[The day he gets to tag along with group from Ship of Unity to meet King Olaf at 12:00 NOON] Crockett standing by to receive travel instructions from Provost Shala's representative.....He is aboard THE UNITY in his quarters assigned and wearing his cr500 new suit for occasion.

1104-365 7:00 - Unity Bridge Comms Center

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSV Pioneer
O Grp proposed. Results to Discuss. Unity 10:30.

1104-365 7:30 - Floating Palace Royal Dock

Mikhel sends an update message to Crockett, on landing on the Royal Dock:

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSP Voyager
O Grp Update. On FP. Available anytime before 10:30. Ack.

1104-365 8:30 - Floating Palace Royal Dock

Sultana is greeted by Sir Thornonton III at the airlock to the Palace.

(Thornonton)"Welcome Sir Sultana. We met very briefly yesterday. I am Sir Thornonton III, I am here to escort you to your meeting with the Imperial Counsul. Did you have any questions along the way?"

Thornonton starts to lead the way through the maze of corridors, many of them full with boxes, as Sultana looks up at the upper levels he can see every balcony seems to have a plant hanging from it.

Sultana walks along behind Thornonton, looking around curiously at the Palace as they weave their way through it. "Absolutely, Sir Thornonton. I'm curious what the local perspective is on all of us outsiders who have arrived for the celebrations? I just happened to be in the region on my tour, but there seems to be a lot of highly-esteemed personalities that have arrived recently. Were they expected, or a surprise?"

(Thornonton)"I am not certain how many have come this time for his Majesty's, long may he reign, celebrations for the new year. There seems to be your crew that has generated the most interest. Many people are speculating on which one of you is the his Majesty's, long may he reign, surprise guest. Will you be running in the race tomorrow morning?"

"I just happened to be in the region, so I highly doubt it's me. But I suppose it's possible His Majesty, long may he reign, is a secret fan of my writings. I wouldn't put any money down on that though. As for the race, no one has talked to me about it. Yet. I left my rocket-powered rollerskates on the ship, unfortunately, so my odds are low."

(Thornonton)"No worries on that Sir. His majesty, long may he reign, leads a running race around the outer band of the Floating Palace. No one can use gravatics to help them be faster, though the King, long may he reign, does use them to help him stay more mobile and fit. The race is a slow jog around the perimeter so many sophonts participate and trail along after His majesty, long may he reign.

Stopping at a non-de-script door. "Here you are sir. I will be just down the hall there waiting to guide you to your next destination." He knocks and then leaves.

As Sultana is standing there at the door it suddenly HURLS open and a tall male human is standing there in very formal Diplomatic Uniform of the Imperium.

(Imperial Consul Thao Poloc)"Sir Lieutenant Gopal Sultana, and Admiral Harison Dawn, come right in.

He ushers Sultana in without a glance then closes the door. Looking around he suddenly freezes with his back to the door.

(Thao Poloc)"Wait, who, where, what... Where is Admiral Dawn?, oh no You are here, Sir Lieutenant Gopal Sultana, and not Admiral Dawn. What does that mean? oh no OH NO NO NO.You are here to replace me.... wait calm calm No you are not going to replace me, that would not be right. I have turned in all of my reports to the Emperor, He knows I am loyal, I would not be replaced by someone like you, no offense you you know, just that we are obviously very different people and not everyone is suited for OH OH OH NO, This can't be happening I did nothing wrong! All my reports have been turned in. I have been loyal! And now Admiral Dawn is going to replace me! This is very bad form! BAD FORM, This should not be tolerated.... oh oh oh NO No wait. If he is replacing me and you are here without him that means you are here to.....

visible panicked pause

(Thao Poloc)"NO], No no no, you are here to assassinate me. You are here by your self to kill me and make it look like an accident. Then you will install Admiral Dawn as the Consul and... NO that can't be. No that is not... EMPERORS BALLS] You are here to assassinate me, then when Dawn gets here you pin that on him and you take over! It all seems to clear now, I was a fool to work this hard all these years and expect that I would be treated fairly. This cannot be happening. I can pay you, I can find a way to help you get what you want. There is no way you want to work for the Imperium in a backwater like this for the rest of your career. There has to be something else you want to do in life.

pause for deep breath and more panic.

(Thao Poloc)"No You are an assassin. Your records show how many duels you fought, how you always go after someone higher up on the social chain than you, you never look down, always looking up, always trying to find the right.... just wait just wait, what was that he did...] AHH. If I challenge you to a duel you have to accept, and we have to do it out in public so everyone will know what you are doing right under the King's nose! YES!!!! YESSS!!! THAT is how I can escape this. I can just wait until you challenge me and then we can have King Oleb intervene and that will solve that. But then what do we do about Admiral Harison Dawn? That is still a problem, how can I avoid him taking over for me, he can't know about that, I can use that yes I can just stay calm, relaxed, peaceful Breathe.

(Thao Poloc)"Sir Lieutenant Gopal Sultana, It is good to see you, I have not had an official visit from the Imperium in over fourteen years. Of course I have been compiling my reports and adding what I can to the IISS library data is submitted every time a scout ship visits. I have conducted myself in a manner that brings the highest honor to the Imperium and.... Oh balls, please do not kill me.

Sultana stands perfectly still watching Consul Poloc have a nervous breakdown right in front of him. At the final plea not to kill him, Sultana can't help but chuckle. "Sir, Consul Poloc, please, have a seat and relax. As you can see, I am unarmed. I'm afraid Admiral Dawn had other calls on his time and wasn't able to accompany me."

Sultana moves over to another chair and sits down, hoping it will help calm Poloc's nerves. "Neither Admiral Dawn nor I work directly for the Imperium any more. I can't speak for the Admiral, but personally, I have no desire to replace you. And from what I know of the Admiral, he doesn't either."

Sultana spreads his hands out, palms up. "So, Consul. I'm here because you invited me. What can I do for you? How can I help?" He then leans back in his chair and crosses his legs, letting his right hand rest comfortably near the knife in his boot, on the off chance Poloc goes violent.

[SKILL] Diplomat (2D+1): 8

(Thao Poloc) sits down opposite the table from Sultana, then jumps up and moves to a different chair where Sultana cannot shoot him under the table. Then he moves over to the wall unit and opens a door. He pulls out a carafe and pours two drinks... then stops and pours them both back into the container.

(Thao Poloc)"Sir Lieutenant Gopal Sultana, would you like a drink? After just accusing you of being an assassin you might not want to drink from my supplies, but if you brought your own, or if you want to select something here for us to drink that you would trust. he takes a deep breath "I am certain you understand what it is like to be out on the edge of civilization and to be on your own with no one to rely on. It was a great surprise to see a ship like the Pioneer show up, then to discover the likes of... the important passengers aboard and traveling here to Drinax. Inevitably to see me. With no warning. As would be expected if you are here to replace me. "

Sultana gives a small dismissive wave with his left hand. "Don't worry about it, Consul. I sympathize with your situation, although I've never been in it myself. I'm in this region of space by pure happenstance, and if the Admiral were here to replace you, I'm sure he'd have found a way to attend this meeting. So, let's just let bygones be gone by, and start fresh, shall we? No hard feelings on my part, I assure you."

"As it is, I'm just knocking about at random, looking for something interesting to spend a few years on. What do you think my odds are on finding something amusing here? Are there any tips you can offer me for dealing with the local nobility or royalty? Is there anyone I should keep my eye on? I'd hate to accidentally step on toes and make problems. Or, to put it another way, who here is Nice, and who is Naughty?"

(Thao Poloc)"Sir Lieutenant Gopal Sultana I have thousands of pages of notes on all of the leading members of this Court. If you want to catch the King's ear being good at drinking helps, he is a boisterous person. For what is happening now at Court. I suspect you and Admiral Dawn are the secret guests that His Majesty is going to meet with tomorrow. If you are not here to assassinate me then that would be the next logical reason for you to be here. For the people you should pay attention to Ranchando is a very good start, for an outsider he is very well connected. Lord Wrax will want to speak with you after seeing me. He will want to try to wring any information he can about what dossier you have presented to me. The sophonts of the Scholar's Tower wield a good bit of power but hey are very secretive. Prince Harrick was recently revived... at least he has reappeared in public. I have heard some say he is the secret guest tomorrow but seriously, if he is already in the Palace, and everyone knows he is recovered, how could that be a secret guest worth speculating on? If you can get Princess Rao on your side that will weigh well with His Majesty. He is prone to give her suggestions a great deal of weight. Finally I would say Lady Hil's special relationship with the King might be of interest. She is not one to enjoy the company of military types, to Lord Wrax's dismay.

Sultana leans back and steeples his fingers together in front of his mouth, taking in what the Consul has said and thinking about it. "Hmm... very interesting, thank you. I tend to picture these situations as a cast of characters, and that has filled in some of their roles for me, quite nicely."

"So, Lord Wrax is going to want to wring out whatever information I give you right now? He is the, or one of the, leading military people here, correct? I'm guessing he probably won't believe it if I say I gave you nothing, will he?" He shakes his head slightly. "So, the next question is, what information shall I let him wring out of me? What juicy tidbits did I bring you from the Imperium? Anything that might send him on a small goose chase looking for a file that doesn't exist? Maybe a sealed file of some sort, from Imperium Intelligence, about the military and diplomatic situation here in the Reach, but as it's sealed I have no way of knowing what's in it."

He looks over at Thao Poloc. "What do you think? Complete and unbelievable honestly, or believable deception?"

(Thao Poloc)"I do get regular reports back from the Imperium. If you consider yearly reminders regular. I have been here for the past eighteen years and I expected to be here another decade or more. Part of my surprise of seeing you and Admiral Dawn on the list of passengers with the unusual appearance of the Lab Ship Pioneer. I had not heard of it before. Apparently there is a notice out from Naval Intelligence that was issued fifteen years ago for a violation in the Asgard system. It is a low level intelligence request, it does not show up on the standard Starport Administrative reports. Of course anyone who delves into the history of the Pioneer finds the involvement in the Fourth Frontier War an controversial incident. Perhaps if we direct Lord Wrax towards your Captain Solis that would be enough to keep his attention for a while."

Sultana nods. "That might work. Would you mind horribly if I reviewed your files on the Pioneer? I only knew the barest details before boarding, and I haven't wanted to pester the Captain with intrusive questions. She's not much into smalltalk, you see. And of course I wouldn't try to hack any of their secure files. That'd be a violation of my contract and ethics."

(Thao Poloc)"Certainly, I can give you all the unclassified information." He pings over a file that describes the Pioneer System History with notes on the time in Esalin, Emerald, Asgard, and Peridot highlighted.

Leaving this vague for RP purposes, Sultana can (or not) talk with Athena about those incidents.

(Thao Poloc)"Thank you for your time Sir Lieutenant Gopal Sultana. Would you like an invite to the Royal Run tomorrow morning? I would be glad to include Admiral Dawn as well."

Lt Sultana takes the file and stands up. "No, thank you, Consul. I'm glad we were able to get past the misconception, and hopefully we'll be able to work together again." He grins mischievously, "If the price of making Harison run is that I have to run as well, then so be it. Yes, invites for both of us, please. He's probably in better shape than me anyways, but it'll still be fun nonetheless."

Lt Sultana walked out of the nervous Consul's office, careful not to expose himself as an easy target in the doorframe. The ideal time for the Consul to shoot him if he was going to was at the start of the encounter rather than now, one never knew with desperate souls.

As he gathered up his escort and started walking back to the shuttle, he sent a message to Admiral Dawn: "Got our tickets for our first opportunity to try and impress the King early tomorrow morning. You and I will be in the Royal Run. I suspect the strongest competition will be for second place, behind the King. Get your track shoes ready, Old friend."

Partway back to the shuttle, he pauses to ask his escort, "I'd like to take a detour, if that's alright with security. Is there some place where I can just sit and get a good view of the Palace, just observe it for a while? I'd like to get a good feel for it as a whole, if that's possible. Maybe you could tell me a little bit about what it's like to live here, if you're willing. This looks like a good setting for a future book, and it would help me paint an accurate picture."

1104-365 8:30 - Floating Palace

Mikhel and Crockett Depart the Unity for a Recon by Walking Around.

"As there will be a tour of the Scholar's Tower later in the morning, I'm looking for other things for now. I will be giving people in general a visual check for health and well being." Mikhel will look for anyone indicating an illness or injury, and focus on a remote diagnosis.

"Oh! Right! We should be heading for Starport Control. That is on the other side of the Palace, by the Starport Docks. There is someone there that can answer questions on the scan results. Let's put some strut in our step, Marines!"

[Crockett ups cadence but halts upon appearance of ROYAL GUARD]

As Mikhel and Crockett go to exit the Royal Docks they are met by a Royal Hawk Guard.

(Royal Hawk Guard)"Hello Gentles. Did you need to go somewhere this morning?

"Warrior! How extraordinarily perceptive of you! In fact, we do. Do you know where one might find Starport Control? I have some questions to ask. Is an escort required? We wouldn't wish to impose upon anyone's valuable time."

(Royal Hawk Guard)"That is not a problem at all, consults his data pad Medic Dromah and Sir James Crockett. I would be glad to escort you over to Control. It is on the starboard rim of the Palace. Will anyone else need an escort to someplace else in the Palace?"

"I am not aware of all the Pioneer's crew's schedules, so there may be others that wish to take in the wonders of the Floating Palace. There is the group going to the Scholar's Tower at 11, this morning. I am supposed to be on that visit, as well, so our inquiries at Spaceport Control will not be too extensive. If you are able, and willing, Warrior Phraedh, we would welcome the assistance in directing us to Starport Control.

Hopefully, nothing too dramatic happens on the way to the other side of the Floating Palace.

(Royal Hawk Guard Phraedh)"I will wait here for you Medic Dromah. I will make sure you keep your appointment at the Scholar's Tower. I will radio over to the docks to bring anyone else over to meet you."

Mikhel attempts to keep his eyebrows from going up. OK! So, the Warriors are just being helpful? Not being chaperones to keep guests from seeing things they shouldn't? Hmmm...

Once Crockett and Mikhel arrive at the Control Centre, Mikhel will ask to speak with the Operations Officer, or the person in charge of the Centre. Mikhel will start the discussion with an apology for conducting a deep scan of the system, without first asking permission, or at least warning the Centre of the use of the scanning equipment. Then, if they aren't too hostile, proceed with a discussion of the results...

"Hoorah! Now this is the side of the "Doc" I like to see."

(Operations Officer)"Welcome Sir Dromah. I am Senior Warrior Tollar. What can I do for you?"

"The Pioneer used its scientific sensor array to do some scans, as I had an idea about possible economic ventures. I spent the first 18 years of my life on a Mining Drone Control ship, in an asteroid belt, and wanted to see if there was something in the Drinax system that could help the local economy. To my surprise, the scans suggested that there is an existing mining station already in your system. Is there anything you can tell me about that facility?"

(Operations Officer Tollar)"Well Sir Dromah, that mining facility is in bad shape. There is nothing on my logs to show that anyone has been there in three years."

"Is the facility Drinaxian property, just inactive? Was there a company running it that left, and why? I ask, because I'd like to get some miners in here to start generating income for the system, and resources to start up manufacturing and get Drinaxian technology up and running."

(Operations Officer Tollar)"For who owns that currently? I would venture no one. Anyone could attempt to restart it I suppose. His Majesty, long may be reign, would be pleased to see an income I can imagine. It would take some source of funding to start it, and someone with practical knowledge. All of the key engineers are busy keeping the hydroponics working as best they can. I am certain that things will get better, His Majesty, long may he reign, will bring things to rights soon enough. I hear Baron Thane Vaelan is expected to return from a mission soon. He is the top engineer from the Scholar's Tower and I know he can get those hydroponics working better than ever.

"Who can I talk to about mineral rights and licensing for mining, Snr Warrior Tollar? What agency is the Office of Primary Interest? I have a few ideas that could get some project working, but before I go looking for potential miners, I'd have to have some incentive to dangle before them."

Whatever info Snr Warrior Tollar provides, will be noted by Mikhel for future discussions with that office/individual.

"Last thing before I go, Snr Warrior Tollar. How far out do your scanners reach, or do patrols extend? If there was something on the far edge of your system, would it be a concern? Do you extend rescue/salvage out very far? Yes, we have detected something almost out of your system. The Pioneer is tracking it, to see if it is adrift or under power. And the Pioneer is interested in putting a claim on that object, if there is any value to it."

Mikhel will, eventually, ask Starport Control to contact the Pioneer for confirmation on any movement of the "distant object". Being that the first scan was around midnight, there has been 8+ hours for any movement to indicate intelligent control. Also, Mikhel will check if Pioneer has detected anything like an attempt of communications from the object. This will be in the presence of the Center Commander. If there is movement or communication, Mikhel will provide the scan data to the Commander. What Starport Control does is up to them, as the Pioneer and crew are not, technically, at liberty to go wandering off after the contact. At least until 002-1105. If the Starport Control is not able to do anything, or determines not to do anything, Pioneer and crew can make plans for after the meeting with the King.

Question to BOB: Range/Duration of a Probe Droid? Probably not across a planetary system, but Mikhel should know if the Pioneer's probes are a viable option. If nothing else, get one started on the way as a relay for comms and scans.

For the drones on the Pioneer they are not capable of moving that far on their own... at least not in a reasonable time frame. Such drones do exist, but the Pioneer has used drones more for planetary observation while working on the surface.

(Operations Officer Tollar)"Sir Dromah I cannot answer to the who to talk with about rights. It would be someone at the Court but it could be one of several. For selling and purchasing Ranchando seems to have His Majesty's, long may he reign, ear currently. I can ask for you to get a better answer. One of the patrol leaders? Or someone in the Scholar's Tower? I will think on that and message you later this evening.

"Out of your area of expertise. I appreciate your candour on not being able to provide advice on this topic, without research. Ranchando wouldn't be my first pick for this subject, either. But what do I know of the hierarchy of the Floating Palace? I look forward to any information you can provide."

(Operations Officer Tollar)"For that other object that your ship's sensors picked up. I will add it to our sensor tracking list. I can have that for you tomorrow. If there is something out there it is likely old junk from the Devastation."

"Hmmm... If our scan is remotely correct, the ship type is too new to have been from an event 200 years ago. Again, I would appreciate any confirmational data. I will also send anything along that we have."

"Senior Warrior Tollar, thank you ever so much for your time. If there is anything we can do on the Pioneer to assist the Star Guard, please contact the ship. We bid you a good day, and an uneventful shift."

1104-365 9:30 - Floating Palace, Outside the Starport Control Centre

Mikhel and Crockett, standing in a corridor...

"Drinaxians are as careful of blurting out free info as we are. Now, what to take in, before the Tower tour, Crockett? Now where too? I have a bit of time, perhaps we wander over toward the Scholar's Tower, and see what we stumble across?"

Well Mikhel..I'd sort of like to see if we could find and make acquaintance of a trade office for future reference....just to establish our personal credentials somewhat. What do you think about that?

"Have you any idea where that might be? That 'Ranchando' fellow may have trade in this system secured."

Maybe there's a trading corporation the officials at the Royal Dock might know of for one, then if there is a financial institution nearby on our walk around they may have an inkling....If we could just get a lead or two today...there's always Day Two of the New Year to pursue things...also I'm going to ask the Provosts when I see them at Noon if they trade with anyone specific here on the Floating Palace???

"We can ask the Hawk Warriors at the Royal Dock, perhaps. Some of the delegates on Unity might also know of traders other than Ranchando. Also, Dawn and Lane have been doing the trading on Pioneer? They were to see about getting something for our cargo. We should check with all of them?"

"I should start making my way toward the Scholar's Tower. But, if it won't take too long, I could accompany you to the Royal Dock and get a few answers before we part ways."

Mikhel and Crockett make way back to Royal Docks, bumping into first official looking person on docks Crockett asks...

"Excuse me Sir but might you direct us to official down here on Royal Docks that looks after customs clearance and trade matters?"

(Royal Hawk Guard)"That would be Straphandra Hault-Miller, Baroness of Algra-reev Sir Crockett. I can ask for an appointment for you if you like."

Yes If an appointment could be set up asap for myself it would be most appreciated” [then to Mikhel he says] “You keep your appointment at the Scholar’s Tower and I will go see what can be learned about other trade opportunities. That sound like a plan to you?

(Royal Hawk Guard)"Very well Sir Crockett. I have arranged for you to have a short meeting with Baroness Hault-Miller at 15:00. I will escort you back to the Control Center to be there for the meeting.

1104-365 10:00 - Floating Palace, Royal Apartments

Iskavrin Antelios Drax-Amadith arrives at the Royal Apartments precisely at 9:55 to be ready when her butler opens the door at exactly 10:00.

(Butler, Lord Aramith Halginor II)"Welcome Lord Iskavrin, Lady Hil will see you now in the sitting room. He leads Iskavrin down a short hall and into a sitting room draped in red, dripping in gold, with large velvet seats, tables with trinkets and pieces that are from antiquity scattered about. Seated in a large comfortable chair with a cup of tea in one hand is an older woman, human, grey hair, slight wrinkles, and a sharp sparkle in her eye.

(Butler)"Lady Hil, Iskavrin Antelios Drax-Amadith is here to request an audience. He bows.

(Lady Hil)"Such a pleasure Iskavrin..." She offered her hand to him.

(Iskavrin) Iskavrin arrives to meet Lady Hill, in his Drax finest. Which isn't that fine anymore. It was at one point. What were once right proud color of Draxian empire have faded with repeated centuries of wear. The stitches holding it together can no longer be kept hidden. There are clearly areas on the outfit that held precious jewelry that have been sold to keep his house, and the Palace afloat, figuratively and literally. With this being a formal call, he has also arrived with his family officer sword, which sits inside a new sheath, that was given to him graduating Naval Academy. He takes Lady Hill in his delicate but well practiced hand with a bend knee, acknowledging her higher station, in the small eroding hill they're all trying to be a King of. "Lady Hill, as summoned, I have arrived. What may my house do for yours?"

(Lady Hil)"Do sit Iskavrin. Aramith fetch us tea and cakes. If there are of those spiced ones left bring two. He bows and heads off to another room leaving the two of you in private.

(Lady Hil)"I do hope your family, She gives him a knowing look "Is doing well and has what they need. That is why I am glad you came to see me today. My daughter has convinced Oleb to some extravagant plan that she has conceived for his new toy. I would surmise you have a good guess at what Oleb wants to do with a fancy ship like that. I am in agreement with my daughter that it is much to valuable to be used as a play toy, it should do something more substantial. Under your leadership her plan might stand a chance. I will speak to Lord Wrax about insisting you be involved to allay his fears of losing such a prize to someone's wandering eye. "

The butler returns with a small trolly. Platinum, with gold plates, velvet napkins, and almost see through fine china cups. Filled with plates of cakes, jam, and tea. He fixes a cup for Lady Hil, then for Iskavrin. He then moves off to some other space to give privacy again.

(Iskavrin) Iskavrin takes a chair as asked. "It was quite the pleasant shock and surprise having a Harrier recovered. My great great..." He rolls his head to emphasis there are a lot more greats. "Grandmother, was a captain of a Harrier. Ive been most curious to see it. The Tower however has been most covetous." He pauses and gives the inquiry some thought. "With the payout for certain items from the breakyards below, and their specifications, it would suggest they are not for export, and not for repair for the Floating Palace." His brow furrows. "He's restoring it? Why? I sure Wrax would love another jumpship. But an additional jumpship is just an expense that can't cover itself."

(Lady Hil)"I am glad you are seeing this from my side. I feel that Lord Wrax will be very wrought over not controlling such an asset. I am pleased to see you volunteering to be part of this new mission. I will speak to His Majesty to make him aware of your involvement, as well as Lord Wrax. she smiles and sips her tea "I did have one other minor problem you can solve. I had requested a new quarterly supply of respirator filters but they are the wrong style. With your contacts on the surface, I am certain you can find a place that can use them. Thank you for taking those out of my quarters. Aramith will help you move them. Did you have any other questions for me Iskavrin?"

(Iskavrin) He chokes at being volunteered on his behalf. "I do beg your pardon, Lady Hill, but I am no longer with the Navy. Wrax, as you know made sure of my removal. I do not have King Oleb ear to get myself reinstated, and please forgive me, but I do not think you can get me reinstated either. Even if it were to happen, then Lady Hill, I would need protection and support from Wrax's faction. Anything I do, will be seen as incompetency and treason." He considers his words. "If its not within th Navy, then it cant be crewed by the navy. It cant be crewed by the Vesprex, that would cost too most political capital for King Oleb to do."

(Lady Hil)"This is why you are a good fit for this position. You are not Navy, you are not Vesprex, you are an independent non-aligned person. Someone who can balance out whom ever is in His Majesty's ear that is trying to balance out Lord Wrax in his other ear. You are quite capable of cutting between the many obstacles. Lord Wrax will be happy to have you off the Palace for a while, His Majesty will do what I say in this, and my daughter will get the information you discover and provide me with. she smiles and sips her tea "I have one other meeting I need you to attend for more information for my daughter. There is an Imperial Admiral, an Admiral Dawn by name. He might be here to replace our dear Imperial Consul Thao Poloc, which would be surprising as I am not aware His Majesty have requested a change. I look forward to hearing your opinion on the man after you meet with him. He arrived on the Pioneer Lab Ship yesterday. Find out why he is here, if he is suitable then recruit him to work with you on your new project.

1104-365 11:00 - Floating Palace, Scholar's Tower

Mikhel and Crockett part ways at the entrance to the University Grounds. Crockett could follow up on the Ranchando comment from Mikhel or return to the Unity to prepare for the meeting with King Oleb in an hour. There is a Hawk Guard that can take him either way.

Athena, Mikhel, Hernández, Eleni, Silas and (a bit of a surprise) Sherris are on time at the gates to the University Grounds.

(Royal Hawk Guard Phraedh)"I will wait here for you. The Scholars prefer to not have the guards on the grounds of the University unless needed"

A young human male comes to greet the group. He seems a little anxious and reluctant.

(Scholar Nievas)"Hello Captain Solis, Baron Hernández, Doctor Kagaragu, Professor Sherris, and Sir Dromah. High Scholar Voha is waiting for you inside. She is interested in hearing about your travels and is pleased with your interest in the University.

"The tour is appreciated as we're equally interested in seeing what is done at the Scholar's Tower."

Mikhel will hang back and do the sponge-mode thing for a bit. Mikhel will look for a moment to pass a quiet word or two to Scholar Nievas, as surreptitiously as possible. Mikhel will suggest that somewhere in the visitor notes on the guests they put a comment beside his name. 'Please do NOT call M. Dromah 'Sir'. Use: 'M.'; 'Mister', 'Medic' or if in desperation for a title, 'Lance Sergeant' or 'Sergeant'. Never 'Sir'. Mikhel will ask that this note be passed to other organizations, such as the Star Guard, if the information the Scholar's Tower uses is not normally shared. It would be greatly appreciated.

(Scholar Nievas)"Very well Medic Dromah, if you will all fallow me I can take you through the halls. Do be careful. We scholars are now on break. Three days off, then everyone must report back on the third. We are going to go up to the fourth floor. Most of the classrooms are on the first three floors, then the dorms are on the sixth floor and higher. I think the High and Grand Scholars like to be able to keep a watch to see if we sneak out after hours."

Silas follows the group but couldn't help ask, "Are the students confined to the tower through their break? What kind of festivities do they enjoy at this time of year?" The spacer was curious as to the ways of the Drinaxians and had enjoyed wild parties at universities the other side of the Void. Surely the students would party and prank this time of year?

(Scholar Nievas)"Oh we are not locked in at all over the break. Most of the scholars are here, though I would guess either sleeping or out visiting the gardens or the Bazaar. Three full days off is a rarity so people take advantage of that."

He leads your group up a wide curving staircase that has landings on the second floor, the third floor, the fourth floor, and continues up to stop on the fifth floor.

(Scholar Nievas)"We go through here, opens the double doors if you were to go to the end of that hall the stairways to the scholar dorms start on this floor.

He leads you down a short hallway and turns to the left opening up one set of two double doors. You are standing on the top of a lecture hall, semi circular with steps going down from several areas down to an open area in the center with a large flat wall for projections behind it. Standing there is a human woman, well dressed with a clean jumper, several pockets, and a lab coat with extra large pockets on the outside. She seem to be in her mid fifties. She looks up and waves a hand dismissing something that was projected on the table in front of her.

(Scholar Nievas)"High Scholar Voha, your visitors are here. Captain Solis, Baron Hernández, Doctor Kagaragu, Professor Sherris, and Medic Dromah. He retreats back up a couple of stairs to wait by the doors. High Scholar Voha gestures you to come down to the front row and take a seat.

With a flashback to her student days, Athena took a front row seat without hesitation. She had always been the one up front, loaded with questions, writing down everything at lectures. She started to pull out her data pad before pausing, and asking, "Is notetaking appropriate for this presentation?"

(High Scholar Voha)"I appreciate the enthusiasm, Captain Solis. I still get the itch for notes also. You can have the notes here, she flicks the data report over to Athena's data pad. "Feel free to share that with everyone on your team. That contains the organizational structure for the University, our current class and testing fees, courses offered, a selection of our scholar's research papers available for use. I know you were invited by His Majesty, long may he reign, for some special project he has. My guess is he wants your expertise in terraforming and increasing the agriculture output for the systems and locations Drinax controls. Have you had your meeting with him yet?"

Mikhel does the poker face thing, pretending polite interest. The Scholar's Tower is not in on the plan. They are in on the refit for the ship. They have to be. Compartmentalization? Are we being snowed? Wait and see.
Mikhel will anticipate an image showing the structure. He's hoping it shows the whole organization, but fears it will only show the educational side. Mikhel wants the medical staff, or at least names he can file away for future button holing. History or Geology for chasing down the mining? Let's see what we get for info.

"No," said Athena, brusquely, as she skimmed the notes and shared them with the team. She reminded herself she was simply a guest here and would be treated as one. She set the data pad down, ready to proceed, as she asked, "So a presentation then a tour, I presume?"

As Mikhel and Athena skim through the notes you see that they are very extensive. Number of scholars but no names, number of specialties but not who is in which, a list of sections and where on the University Grounds each is. Mikhel's interests he spots that Cybernetics is in a separate tower on the grounds isolating them from the rest of the University. Athena spots that the Agriculture section is missing a section head. They both look for the regenerative section and see that there is none listed.

(High Scholar Voha)"Doctor Solis, I would be happy to give you a personal tour of the grounds. But first I wanted you to meet a special guest.

(High Scholar Voha)"Come out son", She turns to her left and the door opens slowly. With a slight hitch in his step a waxen faced human male steps into the room and pauses near High Scholar Voha. "May I introduce Prince Harrick, the once and future King of Drinax" She kneels for him.

(Prince Harrick) "Hello, thank you for visiting our Kingdom. I am glad you came"

(High Scholar Voha) raises an eyebrow to the seated group.....

Stars! I'm not even going to get to the King, long may he reign, before I get a flying lesson.

Silas stood to bow following proper protocol before a noble of this rank. "Thank you for joining us here..." The end of the sentence might have implied a question as to why the Prince would join them here. Or was his appearance pre-arranged..? The spacer then lowered his eyes seguing to his comrades to progress this surprise meeting.

"Fascinating," whispered Athena quietly to herself. So somehow they truly brought the prince back - but not perfectly. Unfortunately, as much as she wanted to inspect the figure before her, perhaps find a way to get some samples to explore in her lab, learn the details of the process and how to perfect it, once more, propriety stood in her way. That red tape, etiquette bureacratic nonsense that always stood in the way of her curiosity and proper science. And sometimes never lifted, but if she followed those rules for just long enough? That gamble had paid off plenty of times. And if it didn't? Well...

Clearing her throat lightly to hide the word that slipped out, she stood and followed the lead of High Scholar Vola, giving an appropriate bow as she could behind the table, saying louder with purpose to actually be heard this time, "An honor to meet you, Prince Harrick."

Lighten up, asshole! This guy just about bought the farm in action. I can respect that, at least. But, a salute isn't appropriate anymore, cause I'm not a soldier now. Alright. Start acting somewhat civilized, jerk.
Mikhel stands, and gives a crisp, full bow, holding it for the military standard pause, "2,3". The guy isn't giving off the usual narcissist vibe. Give him the benefit of the doubt for now.

Hernández, Sherris, and Eleni all stand, bow and take their seats again.

(Prince Harrick) "I know the question you want to ask is 'is that really him'. I can say that my mind is sharp, my body is slowly learning to be me again. Thanks to my mother." He looks over at High Scholar Voha and slowly smiles. Then he turns back to the group. "I would like to join you on your tour but I would slow you down. I hope to see you tomorrow morning for the race." He nods and the slowly turns and walks back out the door moving stiffly.

barely letting him clear the doorway, (Sharris)"That is fascinating High Scholar. Are you doing his reintegration? Does his mind really retain all his memories? Does he remember the accident?"

(High Scholar Voha)"I can assure you that my son has shown great strength in his recovery. He remembers everything in his life, with some normal blind spots from trauma."

(High Scholar Voha)"Are there any other questions before we begin our tour?"

Athena watched the door the prince left through, thinking. Of course she had questions, but which were appropriate for this moment? She did find it mildly interesting that he referred to High Scholar Voha as mother. Was it biological or altruism for the part she played in his rebirth? Questions usually better left to Sherris, but the thought of any of her previous work referring to her that way made her internally shudder a bit.

"Just three that seem appropriate for the moment and the setting," said Athena, thoughtfully. "Forgive my ignorance High Scholar Voha, but are you his biological mother or is it reference to the part you played in his... recovery? How long has it been since you started the process to get to this point? And is the ....recovery still ongoing or is this the limit you've reach for cell regeneration? Kinks you have not yet worked out in regards to gait and the like?"

Still looking towards the door, Athena absently tapped the table, a bad habit when her thoughts started to get beyond the present and into the theoretically. The tapping stopped as she looked at Scholar Voha, a light smile, as she added, "The rest such as how you were able to get the neuron connections to mimick his previous life close enough for successful reintegration, and questions on cell lines and growth, can wait for another day, and without an audience that'll be bored by that, if you are even willing to share. I do understand if you do not."

"My questions can wait for after the tour. If any of my skills might be of use during our time here, I offer my availability to you as a DWB professional. If you didn't pick up the Pioneer's arrival info share, I can retransmit my credentials."

Sherris is almost buzzing with questions. Eleni lays a hand on her arm to calm her. Hernández looks curious but does not seem phased by the implications.

(High Scholar Voha)"Doctor Solis, I can reassure you that I am Prince Harrick's biological mother. nodding to Sherris "I have always treated him as my son. His responses are entirely familial rather than those of a patient. Looking to Mikhel "Thank you for your kind offer. I do not think your training has allowed for you to understand the depths that we have undertaken here to save my son. I do think that if you remain in His Majesties orbit you will have the opportunity to learn more. Perhaps we can teach you over time some new skills. She smiles at Athena "Of course you will be most interested Doctor. Given time and potential growth of trust I might let you see some of our results in detail. For now I can say that we have been working on his recovery for almost two decades. We are fairly certain that his regeneration and growth have peaked. It has been the work of a lifetime to save my son. Once he is on the throne I will feel my work is done."

High Scholar Voha picks up her data pad to lead you out of the room and begin a tour of the building.

Mikhel texts back to the sender of the Scholar's Tower info package: Offer of medical assistance was for general occurrences, not specific recovery cases. I was under the impression that all medical services came from the Scholar's Tower. If not, please forward my offer to that agency. However, I also have experience with Marine/Navy injured personnel in rehabilitation facilities, as a corpsman, doing prosthetic and cybernetic physiotherapy, as well as care of a few catastrophic body regeneration/regrowth patients.

Using that clinical experience, and having been part of treatment regime teams, Mikhel would have an idea of how the Prince was doing recovery-wise. The estimation from the description is that he's not doing well for 20 years of regeneration. Imperial treatment would be max a year, even with nearly full body regrowth/reconstruction. How badly damaged was this Prince? Did they regrow him from a few brain cells?

There was so much to unpack in Voha's words and no polite question that he could ask. He kept his quiet and inclined his head to the scholar to indicate this.

When an opportunity presented itself, Silas subvocalised notes to Vix which included to try to learn what Voha's current relationship was to the King. And for that matter the parentage of Princess Rao, as Silas was certain he was witnessing that age old tale of scheming for the throne. Prince Harrick the heir apparent, nearly lost in combat but returned from the dead. Rao the favoured of the King. He would endeavour to avoid taking sides.

Once you leave the lecture hall you are joined by two Scholars. They speak to the area you are entering, talking in general terms about the experiments and courses that are happening. As you move from one area to another one or both drop off and are replaced with Scholars with specialties for that area. Athena, Eleni, Sherris, and Mikhel are deep engrossed by the tour, finding very competent teachers, new projects, and interesting ideas. With the University being cut off from most outside sharing sources the lines of investigation are somewhat duplicative of other places. It does look to all of them that bringing in new students is a key source of funding for the University. The tour extends for well over three hours.

Does Mikhel see anything for medical scrutiny? Is there anything he might relate to mining in the system, and be able to ask questions about the facility in the asteroid belt?

Mikhel can spot several metallurgical areas of study. It is not clear from this document if that mining facility would be under control of the University or of the Royal Family based on his other investigations.

Nothing while on the actual tour for Asteroid Mining or anything like it?

As interesting and enjoy Athena finds the tour, her mind will not let go of the puzzle of the prince. When they reach what feels may be the end, she asks, "Scholar Voha, does the university hold a place one may get a cup of coffee and contemplate quietly, potentially with a colleague or two?" She looked briefly at her watch, saw the later time, and shrugged. Caffeine was not a great idea but her mind would churn regardless into the night and keep her up. "Privacy and caffeine would welcomed. I could find such in my lab, but with all presented to me today, I cannot guarantee I would leave it anytime soon. The data suggests that'd be interpreted as rude."

Silas watched his comrades throughout and noted Captain Solis' quizzical demeanour. He offered them a collegiate, "Agreed. That's a lot to take in, and caffeine would help." There was an immense subscript to anything anyone might say here regarding the Scholar, the Prince, and the Tower, but for the minute little could be said out loud. "Thank you for inviting me along. I feel... illuminated!" He hoped a little humour might ease the mental load on the crew.

(High Scholar Voha)"Doctor Solis yes we have a lounge area you could use for that and casual conversations with some of the other Scholars. You will have to return on the third for that as most of the facilities here are closed for the break. I will be busy with events tomorrow but on the second I could come visit you on the Pioneer if you would like. "

Well she tried. Athena would point that out when it would inevitably fall to Eleni to make sure she either didn't go to her lab or else to drag her out of it in the morning - likely sleep-deprived as well. Poor Eleni. With a small nod, Athena said, "Thank you for the tour, Scholar Voha. I will check with my schedule regarding the second. You will hear from me later if it does."

{space for replies}

After the tour concludes the Hawk Guard guides your group back to the Royal Docks and the Voyager. You arrive there at almost 15:00.

12:00 - Floating Palace, Throne Room

Meeting with King Oleb XVI and the Provosts of Torpol

The Royal Hawk Guards escort Provost Shala, Provost Falx, Crockett, Admin Aide Dar into the Throne Room on the Floating Palace. There is a crowd of people there, none that Crockett is familiar with. It appears this is one of several people or groups with an audience with the King on the final day of the year.

Meeting Crockett's rumors that he had heard King Oleb XVI is a large, loud, boisterous man. He is energetic in his gestures, always with a large golden goblet of wine at hand. Group after group comes up with requests and or gifts. The King does not seem to have any favorites, treating everyone with a casual noblesse oblige sometimes gently, sometimes more forcefully, reminding them of their duties to the King as he decides how to respond to requests. One that Crockett catches as his group's moment is close is one from the Asim system. Two young men are asking for additional supplies for building a new settlement. King Oleb cautions them that they will get what they requested once they are able to provide for their people and the agreed upon produce that is to come to Drinax. They seem to be trying to explain their difficulties in achieving what the King is requiring but he good naturedly agrees that it is difficult to lead, and everyone must do their share. He does agree to look into if the production facilities at the Floating Palace can assist sooner than later.

When it is time for the Torpol delegation to speak the two Provosts take the center with Crockett on one side and Dar on the other. Provost Shala offers a thanks for the audience and tells the King that they have brought along a half ton of flash frozen seafood from the oceans of Torpol. King Oleb expresses his appreciation with a toast as he looks over the group. His eyes linger on Crockett. Crockett cannot tell if it is because the King recognizes him, or if it is only from the obvious differences in clothing and demeanor from the rest of the delegation.

Provost Falx requests an audience with the engineers and construction teams of the Floating Palace. He is effusive on the effectiveness and magnificence of the technology and wants the chance to speak with them about improvements that could be done with Torpol's Highport. King Oleb looks appreciative of the compliments, but Crockett senses he is not fully happy with the mention of the Highport. The King does agree that there should be some cooperation, and it is a topic for future discussions. Provost Shala takes their time to offer King Oleb an official invitation to be part of the Torpol Hydrolympics coming up in the new few months. He invites King Oleb to bring a team to compete in water polo and other activities. Provost Shala specifically invites a team from Drinax to come early to train in the different gravity conditions, calling Prince Harrick out by name as a potential member of the Drinax team. {Prince Harrick and Princess Rao are not visible in attendance in the audience}

King Oleb gives a loud hearty toast to this idea.

THAT IS A SMASHING IDEA SHALA! I WILL LEAD OUR TEAM FROM DRINAX PERSONALLY AND WOE TO THOSE WHO FALL INTO OUR BRACKET. CHEERS!!! He raises his goblet to Provost Shala and then to the room at large WHO IS WITH ME? WHO WILL UPHOLD THE HONOR OF THE STAR DRAGON AND REMIND THE REACH WHAT WE ARE MADE OF!!

Most of the Nobles attending Court raise their voices to cheer, and a few raise their hands to indicate they are ready to join in this new crusade their King has declared. With a couple more cheers and toasts. King Oleb tells Provost Shala that yes there will be an advance team, the details of which are to be worked out later after the holidays.

[Crockett to Provost ] In hushed voice "Provost Sir might I address the King?"
[Crockett to King] "Good King Oleb, Sir. I am Crockett — formerly with the Imperial Naval Marines and I am with this party by good fortune and as such bring you happiest and fondest greetings for you and Your Kingdom in this new year we are about to begin."
"King Oleb … on this day I for one have nothing to ask of you but perhaps someday to be able to be of use to you as you to continue to seek ways to Make Your Once Glorious Kingdom GREAT AGAIN. Until perhaps tomorrow when I am part of another group that is booked to have audience with you I then beg my leave and thank you for this opportunity to have an initial introduction."

King Oleb gives a toast to Crockett with a speculative nod.

The group moves over to the side as more people are presented to the King. After a short time the Provosts lead the way out and the Royal Hawk Guards escort your group back towards the Royal Docks and the Ship of Unity. Along the way one of the peels off with Crockett to take him to his meeting at the Control Center.

12:00 - First attempt at meeting with Iskavrin and Harison

Drax-Amadith Residence / Office / His Royal Highness Office of Surface Affairs and Affiliations And Taxation And Noblesse Oblige Administration Center for the Restoration Continuation of the Drinax Royal Family and Rightful Empire of the Stars and Sword

Along one of the wide hallways, whose murals have long since been scavenged of precious metals like platinum and lanthanum to help stave off the eventual failure of the Floating Palace gravitic drives. Its probably for the best, that this disgraceful hocking of the cultural heritage of the Drinaxian empire is hidden behind modular pre fab housing. Really wanna know who was important on the Floating Palace? How many pre fabs do you have. Many have only the one. Drax-Amadith Residence, has three.

A bedroom for him and his wife. A dining room, with an Tech World Autochef and office for Iskavrin job. In the Sindilian tradition, the opulence of the title the higher the status. This does come at the expense of practical name plaques.

The office center piece is a desk, made out of real Drinaxian Mahogany. The desk has a baked in holographic TL16 computer. Its only 225 years old. Practically new. Unlike the printer on the desk that sits there like a plantar wart. Unlike the refurbished filing cabinets that hug the walls like gargoyles. There is just enough room along one edge, pass around the desk to go into the dining room. Just enough room for a not an excessively tall or cluttered person to sit across from Iskavrin seat.

After Iskavrin meeting with Lady Hill, he returned back to his family pre fabs. He sees the noon correspondences on his front door, and several calling cards. This means his wife was still out and about. Not unusual.

The lack of wireless networks, or well their lack of reliability has caused a return to physical mail amongst dwellers of the Floating Palace. With pick up three times a day. The Pages, working their way to delivers the messages, even standing in line for one of the few radios that still have pan solar system reach on the Floating Palace.

As Ikavrin enters his office, he takes in the mail. Most of them were for his wife. Ah, this letter from their son, was not solely for her. Iskavrin opened it. Ah, good, he reached Tobia okay. Settled into his house, and is exciting for his first semester classes. Iskavrin smiles as he absently minded nestle where the flawless ten karat emeralds that used to be on his outer coat.

He then positions his hands over where the holographic keyboard rests for him, his computer snaps to attention. It restores his last sessions, and two dozen spreadsheets pop up. Iskavrin frowns, as he saves and closes them. Pulls up a terminal menu to SSH into the Scholar Tower database.

<img src="https://imgur.com/hzR4pRq" alt="Shcholar Tower Terminal Database" />

Imperial Ordinance on Foreign Service Conduct and Integration (IOFSCI)

Enacted By: Imperial Edict Talik-4785 Purpose: To ensure foreign high-ranking service members or veterans visiting Imperial territories conduct themselves with respect for local customs, maintain diplomatic decorum, and properly integrate into the societal framework.

Section 1: Applicability This ordinance applies to:

Foreign High-Ranking Active Service Members: Officers holding a rank equivalent to Captain or higher within their home polity or organization. Foreign High-Ranking Veterans: Retired officers of equivalent rank, or individuals who have been recognized with notable honors by their home polity. Section 2: Requirements Upon Arrival Mandatory Registration and Appointment:

Within 7 local days of arrival on an Imperial System, all applicable individuals must schedule an appointment with the Office of Foreign Dignitary Affairs (OFDA) to: Confirm their housing arrangements meet local standards of security and decorum. Receive an orientation on Imperial customs, laws, and protocols. This meeting ensures the visitor is prepared for appropriate interaction with Imperial citizens, businesspersons, and nobility. Introduction to Planetary Nobility or Officials:

Foreign service members or veterans must formally present their credentials during an official introduction session with designated planetary officials or nobility before engaging in public, private, or commercial activities. The session serves to verify identity, convey respect for Imperial traditions, and establish diplomatic goodwill. Section 3: Restrictions on Activity Prohibition of Pre-Approval Actions:

Visitors are prohibited from engaging in the following activities until compliance with Section 2 is confirmed: Public business negotiations or deals. Political activities, including speeches, lobbying, or advocacy. Participation in formal social or cultural events hosted by nobility. Exemption for Diplomatic Missions:

Official government representatives with verified diplomatic credentials may receive temporary exemptions, granted by the planetary governor or Imperial liaison. Section 4: Enforcement and Penalties Non-Compliance Consequences:

First Offense: Formal reprimand and notification sent to the visitor's home government or military command. Subsequent Offenses: Fines up to 20,000 Credits. Temporary revocation of trade, movement, or diplomatic privileges. In severe cases, deportation may be considered. Enforcement is carried out by the OFDA and local authorities, with support from the Imperial Ministry of Diplomacy when needed.

Section 5: Purpose and Rationale This ordinance ensures foreign high-ranking service members and veterans visiting Imperial territories maintain decorum and respect for local traditions. By fostering goodwill and promoting mutual understanding, the law strengthens relationships between the Imperium and other interstellar states while safeguarding Imperial societal norms.

Iskavrin reads through it, and then pulls up several other documents. Spends an hour reading, skimming. He leans back into his chair, checks the time. Night correspondences will be picked up soon. With that, he pulls out some watermarked parchment, starts to write:

"In compliance with IOFSCI, you are beckon to meet with Sir Drax-Amadith for accommodation of the visit, and introduction of the court for the mutual betterment of his and their Station, his and their Family, and his and their Sovereignties." Along with the letter, is Iskravan signature, in elaborate calligraphy in variegated colors. Places it into an envelope, which he seals with hot wax and presses his signet into it, leaving a clean impression. Then takes out a stamp, marks as it as urgent and persistent. Telling the Pages to attempt to deliver until done.

14:50 - Meeting in the Control Center with Baroness Hault-Miller and Crockett

"So Baroness Hault-Miller...Thank you so much for seeing me....I should explain that while I am really only a retired Naval Marine with the Imperial Navy most recently, I am travelling with a group who are seeking new trade opportunities and have asked for this meeting with you as I hear you are knowledgeable about possible opportunities here on Drinax.It is a new year for all and with it we anticipate travelling a bit throughout this region and wondering what type of goods might be of value here to those of you who live on the Floating Palace and what things you might have of trade value elsewhere?"

(Baroness Hault-Miller)"Sir Crockett. It is good to see you being proactive and coming to see me before attempting any new mass trading attempts. Certainly if you find a cargo that you feel the Kingdom will be interested in you should bring it to our attention. King Oleb XVI, long may he reign, has a good mind as you saw during your time at the Court. He is good hearted and wants what is best for his people. It can be challenging for others to see what is appropriate as trade opportunities. In the last six months I have turned away several disappointed ambitious independent traders who brought the wrong type of cargo to Drinax. The Baldo earlier this year tried with a cargo full of 'the latest in fashion and furnishing from the Gazulin subsector. He left with his hold still full, the only credits changing hands for fuel.

She picks up a data pad and starts moving about the room again. "If you find something that you think will be of interest to the Kingdom do message me or Ranchando and we will advise on the suitability. You have met Ranchando at the Bazaar?

"Thank you Baroness for this helpful direction. I have been puzzled about the true role of Ranchando, but since you have made reference to him, it appears he is held in good regard by the palace and your King. I was hoping though in addition, you might be able to name just 3 or 4 types of product that could be of use here??"

(Baroness Hault-Miller)"Sir Crockett. Ranchando is held in high regard by The King, long may he reign, and by the Princess, his Heir. That is all that you as an outsider to our Court needs to know. For the choice of products to find, Ranchando would be the person who could help you with that. He got his start here on the Floating Palace with bringing fruit, that Countess Tollar and the Princess happened to be fond of. I do not know how he knew that. I suggest you find inspiration as best you can, perhaps he can give you guidance on that. I bid you good day, and Happy New Year.

15:00 - Floating Palace, Royal Docks

Once seated in the Voyager, Athena wastes no time quelling, or perhaps igniting, her thoughts. She puts her data pad away and take out one of her most prized possessions: a pen and waterproof notepad. An old, but trusty relic that never failed you in the field, and stored in the right place, guaranteed only a single person had access. Technology surrounded them, but that didn't mean she trusted it fully. In it, she writes her initial thoughts and tendrils of potential research she could follow.

"Cloning," wrote Athena in a tight, messy scrawl. "Never perfected to accurately clone an individual. Sophont clones develop seperate personalities and would not retain memories. May impair political ambition if cloning technique is in-vivo. Unlikely but not impossible."

On the next paragraph, she continued to write, "Cell growth. Plenty on research for sophonts. Easy access for Drinax. Medical regrowth relies on cells to retain memory of lost limbs with guidance of outlying cells. Implications from Voha to Dromah indicate there were no cells for medical regrowth. Lab growth then? A blank slate, but focused on the mind not the body. Or perhaps spliced incorrectly. Contaminated cell line? Did Voha try to establish one using her own or the king to retain royal heritage? Very possible."

Continuing to write to get her initial thoughts out, Athena wrote in a new paragraph, "DNA extraction. If body does not exist, DNA extraction necessary. Was DNA damaged? Plenty of sophont research out there to find a place to start. Possible, but less likely based on reactions."

For the last paragraph, before she decided thinking matter more than writing, she wrote in small, messier writing, "Were enhancements added? Or was an opportunity lost in the focus on bringing him back? If body is still repairing, could some be added to the baseline cell growth DNA? Too political, save thoughts for later." After underlining the last sentence, a note to herself, she shut her notebook, tapping the cover as her mind whirrled with the possibilites, especially knowing what she had in her lab.

Mikhel would have liked to do a bit more Recce by Walking Around, but the tour went over lunch with no food, and it has gotten late in the afternoon. Rather than try to be civil while hungry, Mikhel will head back to the Pioneer. Things to think about, and appointments to line up. Mikhel will contact Crockett later to see if he had any luck, with the Baroness. Mikhel would have gone to see Crockett, and listen in at the 15:00 hr meeting, but Mikhel would be late and inappropriately dressed. Ping Crockett later, and see about an O Grp. A word or two with the Captain about what we didn't find out? Nah. She's got her head in her ... Whoa! Old School! A notepad? Almost like a low tech field message pad. Hmmm... Should check out finding them around. Anyway, a 'nil' report can wait.

Seeing Dromah glance over at her notebook brought another thought to Athena. The others may not be interested in the science but...

"Dromah," prompted Athena, still in a thoughtful manner. "Have you ever provided specific care to a highly political individual before as part of DWB? I would imagine it is much easier to convince others you are apolitical when provided for many, but I am curious how you would convince them your motives for the Prince are purely as part of the DWB mission given he isn't the usual recepient for what little I am aware of it." Athena motioned with her hand. "The downtrodden, war-torn nations, yes? Not the son and potential ruler of a region."

"While he may have returned, he is still at a disadvantage. A handsome, physically fit individual has a much easier time gaining a throne than one who is not. That human fallacy has never evolved out of us." Athena gave a small displeased sigh and tapped her notebook again, briefly. "Scholar Voha cannot appreciate what she has done, what potential scientific marvel she has achieved, unless her political ambitions are also met. That is unfortunate. Science, and I'm certain medicine and other studies, cannot be appreciated on their own without political involvement." It was also clear to Athena that Voha would likely take full advantge of Athena's curosity to achieve it - hence why she wanted to wait until the meeting with the king before deciding if she'd allow her on the Pioneer.

"I suppose," said Athena, now thinking out loud, allowing commentary from any listening, "The question is how Princess Rao will recieve us. Will we be a threat? Or are we a potential advantage for her as well?"

The question did not hang in the air long before, mind ever moving, Athena glanced over at Hernández with a small, excited smile. "Although, Harold, I do see potential for collaboration on some cellular agriculture again. This seems like a prime place to find a good funding source. Perhaps we can finally tackle your idea of, what was it, making it a gastronomic delight?"

"As is the way with all political environments, players will wait and watch until they're sure they have some advantage before acting. One might do the same." He arched an eyebrow and met the eyes of each of the crew. "If one never takes a side, one never makes an enemy!" Silas knew he was a relative newcomer and still finding his place among the crew here but was keen to share his thoughts about the exciting court here playing out in plain sight. "The Drinaxians seem curious about us... and whatever the King's plan is! Once their cards are on the table one might choose sides, although either potentate becomes an enemy. A savvy courtier, and the Prince and Princess would need to be in this tense, close environment, would look for allies to gain advantage where possible... and only act out against another player when they had a sure advantage in the game... and a means to profit or advance from any conflict." The spacer looked to the others for their opinions.

Silas has Diplomacy 1 so although no expert, he has a sound understanding of political environments.

Athena gives a light snort, and small smile to Silas, saying, "It is not hard to make enemies even if you do not take sides."

"Doctor, I am too new with my DWB credentials to have ever done individual patient care of anyone, of any rank. I have dealt with a few high ranking navy types, who had very high noble backgrounds, all of which went to private care, once out of the operational theatres. Those individuals completed their convalecence out of Navy/Marines hands and oversight. I have done rehabilitation on many others, of all ranks, but divorced of politics. Can I offer something to Prince Harrick? Very possibly. Is he strong enough to take on Marine rehabilitation? That is all on his desire to succeed.
I have no idea how any of the court will take the 'interference' of an unknown outsider. Despite my usual desire to ridicule nobles and high executives, I'm drawn to the thought of a challenge. There are many pitfalls and possible boobytraps in this situation. I can foresee Scholar Voha being particularly adverse to subjecting her son to the misguided ministrations of an unqualified, meddling wanna-be doctor.
If we team up, and cover our respective specialties, I could slip in under the umbrella of your reputation and Scholar Voha's admiration of you. Can I appeal to Prince Harrick to give me a try? I think I can, and more to the point, I think I want to. I would approach Prince Harrick as a fellow soldier, wanting to see a fellow combatant succeed in his mission. Then, sound out who and what he is, and his goals. If he is heading in a direction to which I can agree, he will get my full support and effort. What do you want to do? Can we, you and I, work this as a team?"

Mikhel starts the tactical analysis of the situation. Does the Prince do any outside PT? If he is out for a run sometime, Mikhel could 'stumble across' the Prince and 'join' him. Not getting pushed away by his entourage would be tricky. Then, there is the 'Race' tomorrow? What was that? Would the Prince participate? Was there a way to shadow him, and assess him. If Mikhel could shadow him, with his gear on his back, field-style, Mikhel would be right on hand for any problems that might crop up. Mikhel couldn't think that the individual he saw this afternoon doing anything but a symbolic run, and nothing a fit Marine couldn't keep up with, even with a field kit. And Mikhel needed to get out and run, anyway. Start working on the brother-in-arms approach right away. There were going to be suspicions and detractors. Play this straight, no crap, and let sincerity do its thing.

There has been mention of a Royal Race, but Mikhel hasn't been present for them, IIRC. Are there advertisements? Was there a schedule of events in the Welcome Package to the Pioneer on entering the system, or any info provided to the Pioneer on the upcoming Festivities? Does Mikhel have that info, and can he act on it? Is there a Support Plan or OPI that can be contacted to whom 'Volunteer' services could be offered? The group can infer that there are activities happening, to this point you do not have any details or information except your special meeting with the King at Noon. Once you meet up with Sultana and Harison back on the Pioneer for the evening they can tell you about their experiences.

In the interests of moving the story forward I am planning on simply writing a few paragraphs about the morning before the meeting and starting interactions with everyone at Noon meeting. There will be lots of opportunities to

With a nod towards Mikhel, she replied, "That is certainly the path that interests me most, but I have learned the need to be more discriminate in my pursuit of knowledge. But our pilot has a point. The Drinaxians are already playing their cards. We would not have met the Prince otherwise. And we could simply play along, feel our way, and change course later if we need."

"We will see how the meeting with the king goes. If it feels appropriate, I will send an invitation to High Scholar Voha after to visit the Pioneer on the second, and perhaps, extend that to the Prince."

"Roger that, Doctor! I'll still do the run, and any assessment I can from a distance. If the Prince approaches me, I'll be friendly, but non-commital. I haven't heard anything yet about sides, except Lord Wrax's warm welcome. We can hope that Princess Rao gives us some impression about how she thinks this plan will play out."

To Lt. Sultana
I hope you’re joking!
If not but I still hope it’s a bad joke what type of race is it nice run around a garden? Or a free for all no rules first to cross a line?
Also I have no running shorts so the people will be so disappointed not see my great legs.

To Adm. Dawn
Would I joke about something like this, Old Friend? Don't worry, in light of your advanced age, I'm sure they'll make you some allowances. In all honesty, however, I don't realistically intend to be one of the front contenders either. I signed us both up as a participation thing, to give us a bit more recognition with the locals who care about such things. If the King cares about it, many of the nobility will as well.

Plus it was funny.

Sultana out.

Iskavrin's messenger returns to the Drax-Amadith Residence at 14:00 without an answer from Admiral Harison. She reports that there is no one at the Voyager. She waited for 2 hours but no one answered any communication requests to the bridge.

15:00 - Second attempt at meeting with Iskavrin and Harison

This is the Lad Ship Pioneer answering your call who is speaking and what is your business.

The radio operator for the Pioneer, would hear a vinyl recorded like quality being slowed and reversed, changing from several langauges until it starts to speak back to the radio operator in Anglic. "Floating Palace Courier 2121-93501. Enclosed Envlope for Harison, Dawn. Admiral. Marked, Urgent. Sender is His Royal Highness Office of Surface Affairs and Affiliations And Taxation And Noblesse Oblige Administration Center for the Restoration Continuation of the Drinax Royal Family and Rightful Empire of the Stars and Sword, Sir Drax-Amadith."

This is Harison speaking may I ask what this envlope is in relation too? Also can it be left with one of the guards till I am port side tomorrow?

"The parcel is in regards with compliance of Imperial Edict Talik-4785, IOFSCI.Then there a pause for a moment. "The parcel is marked, Urgent."

Harison thinks to himself can’t be that urgent if it’s in an envelope sent via a robot.

You can get who ever sent this to call me on my private coms and I’ll decide how urgent it is cause I don’t remember having any business on this plant I would call urgent. Or I can pick it up tomorrow good day.

There is a noticeable pause before a response. "Floating Palace Courier 2121-93501 is private communications. Thank you testing my loyalty and due diligence in my service to King..." There is a pause again. Oleb. Of the 809,786 messages, missive, and packages, only 32 have been lost. None have been open by this Courier, nor has this Courier ever knowingly allowed their charged to be taken or read except by the designated recipient. This is for Harison, Dawn. Admiral. Marked, Urgent." And with that the courier found himself hanged up on. They look over the line for the interstellar ranged radio. They then step aside. Look at the envelope. Its marked Urgent. Its also marked persistent. With that, Floating Palace Courier walks to the back of the queue. They wait their turn for the radio, and will hail the Pioneer ad infinitum until the message is delivered.

Harison contacted coms control on the Floating Palace saying some one named Sir Drax-Amadith from the department Administration Center for the Restoration Continuation or at least that bit was some were in the name. They sent on the contact information and Harison went about sending a message.

To Sir Drax-Amadith
From Harison Dawn on the Pioneer.
I believe you’re trying to contact me with an urgent letter. What’s the nature of the letter and why is it urgent. If this is to do with trying to trade for our cargo please don’t waste my time it’s for sale only. You can contact me on my personal coms.
Thank you

"Huh, curious. I will need to make sure the the courier gets sent down to maintenance, if it couldnt follow that direction. Its in regard to Imperial Edict Talik-4785, to comply with an abbreviation soup. Its a law. It has a time limit. Laws that have time limits are urgent. Though I guess as a Third Imperial Admiral, they dont often have to follow laws they dont want to. I dont know when you arrived in system, but it starts when you arrived in system. It would be appreciative, if you didnt disregard ours. Please meet me at my office, as soon as you can." And in the comms is a image of the floating palace, mark up of the various makeship homes and offices that are stuffed in the hallways.

To Sir Drax-Amadith
From Harison Dawn on the Pioneer.
I am sure you are mistaken the Pioneer and her crew was invited here by you king. I am sure his intent was for us to be braking laws.
But as a personal favour to you, I will come down in-person to you so you can sort this out. See you soon.

After sending the last communication Harison taught to himself, that boredom of being on the ship with not much to do must be getting to him more than he knew to agree to the meeting. It should be entertaining at least he hoped it would be.
He prepared the shuttle for the trip and cleared it with control on the palace. When he landed at the dock he asked the HawkGuard that greeted him if he could escorting to the offices of Sir Drax-Amadith. When he arrived he gave a knock on the door.

Iskavrin:As Harison is escorted by one of the Hawkmen, the hallway where Iskvrin calls home, has a number of these have sized modular container homes, stuck to the side of the walls, like someone just overwhelmed in the Sims, and didnt know where to put anything. The halllway, extended up six meters into a graceful arch. The walls have 3 stories of these half modules, stacked on top of each other. There are a few lader with wheels at their base, attached to rails to the story they service, with a pulley system to push and pull them to the door thats needed.

Iskvrin, is on the ground floor. With 3 modules. Its not much, but its larger then few other folks and most convient to get into and out. Status. What status can be still be had on the Floating Palace.

As Harison knocks on the Iskavrin home, the texture was made to look like wood, but its obviously plastic of some kind, and hollow. Without much hesitation, the door opens. Iskavrin stands firm and tall, as tall as someone thats bit over meter half. Hes on the thin side, like a soup thats been made to stretch out for too many meals. He is wearing obviously old clothing, that was made out of splendiferous materiels. It has intricate patterns of dragons and swords. Its plain to tell these used to be accented with precious materiels and stones but they've been removed. Lost or stolen or sold?

The Hawkman warrior does a salute to Iskavrin. He extends his pointer and middle finger as his hand makes a loose fist. Then touches his forehead over his nose, then does a bow and extends his arms out and his fingers point below Iskavrin waist. Ikavrin smiles, then a slight nod, and the Hawkman warrior relaxes and returns to standing.

"Master Chief!" Iskavrin says jubilant with some surprise. "Good to see you." The hawkmen keeps a professional cool, and replies to Iskvrin. "Commander." Iskavrin shakes his head. "Its Sir now. The Hawkmen replies, "It was Sir before too." He lets out a small chuckle. "Oh, shoot. I still have your wife casserole dish. Can you carry it back now?" The Hawkmen gives a thought, "Yea. I can drop it off on my way back to my post." Iskavrin then snaps his finger, "One more thing. I am schedule to go back down to the surface, to Alto Veria arecology. Can I tag you to be the bodyguard? We can catch the vista, you love." The Hawkmen shakes his head. "No, I'm due to do a rotation at Asim and relieve the Hawkmen there." Iskvrin nods in understanding. He then straightens up, looks the Hawkmen in the eyes, and his voice shifts to familiar officer tenor. "Hawkemn Jonathson, Master Chief, I request that you stand guard of my offices while I conduct important, private business." The Hawkman, does a similar salute, though this time without the bow but the arm and fingers still point below Iskavrin waist. Then he responds, "I shall stand guard, until other duties press me to act elsewhere." And with that he then stands beside the door, with his back against the wall.

Iskavrin then clasps his hands together, then he extends his pointer and index finger, touches his forehard above his nose, and extends his arm and points above Harison waist. "I welcome you to my house, and office. Please come in, and be seated. "

As you look at the man in the door he is not physically big or imposing but as he walks in you can tell their is a certain grace to his movement. "Thank you Mr Drax-Amadith for welcoming me into your home hopefully we can get this sorted quickly as I am sure you are a very busy man." As he sits in the chair you indicated to you would say he looks in his early 50s in good shape. His wearing common work closes nothing out of the ordinary. 

 (Iskavrin) Iskavrin sidesteps and squeezes past his desk and the filing cabinets, sits in his chair. The door to his office closes. He gestures over the desk, as the holographic display and keyboard come back to life. He can be seen reading something, as his eye dart to and throw.  "Alright, time for legal spellwork, so I am not technically a fraud, and this is about what it was stated to be about."  hHe clears his throat. "Imperial Ordinance on Foreign Service Conduct and Integration, as decreed by Imperial Edict Talik-4785. You are now in the sovereignty of the Drinax Empire. True inheritor of the sword and stars, and Inheritor of the Sindilin Empire. Our King Oleb, welcomes you to be here, in so that you understanding that your Rank, only commands respect, appropriate accommodation but not authority. Welcome good tiding and peace and trade among our houses and yours. We shall see you are taken care of as a guest that your rank has earned from service. You are welcome to conduct diplomacy, commerce and trade, lobby for interests, but cannot conduct or support espionage. If you were to break any laws of our land, then our laws will be enforced upon you."  As Iskavrin is reading this, its not terribly rehearsed or said with conviction. "And then extend out your hand..." He rolls his eyes at himself, leans forward and extends out his hand, opened. "By accepting this hand in the manner give, in open transparency, and in respect and betterment between our sovereigns, sovereignties, houses and our selves.

Harison reaches over to shake hands a little look of confusion crosses his face but he rolls with it. As he shakes hands he asks "You do know I am no longer an Admiral or in the employment of the navy I hope that does not changes this out come? If not is there any thing else or am I free to go."

(Iskavrin) "The edict applies to active service members and those that are retired. And there lots to be discussed because you're here. There no reason for you to be here, so you're a curiosity and mystery and a probable danger. You said King Oleb invited you. Thats probably real. He sends dozen invitation every year, and most politely dont receive it. We're not even part of the Third Imperium and Heriate trade route. Most caravans skip right over us. Its harder to be less important. Did you not have obligation to family after you were retired?" He asks pointly.

"The devil is in the details I never said I was invited just that the pioneer and her crew were so by extension me as a member of the crew. As to my reason for being here the captain of the ship said set a course for Drinax one week later out we pop and here we are. Look I know you’re looking out for your home but as you have stated, it’s not on any trade routes, it has no natural resources, no military, no navy, it doesn’t even trade in credits there is nothing this planet has to offer that you need to be worried about me being here as the worst spy in the galaxy using my real name as I go about my business. What I be worried about is all the cats 2 parsecs over. As for my family I am sure that has nothing to do with security."

(Iskavrin) "I didnt bring up security. And you dont know want to talk about your family. Which is in my experiences, odd with anyone with a Noble heritage. I know my linage going back 800 years. Who you know, is who you are. So you either arent one, or arent welcomed by them. And either being true, still became an Admiral. Thats impressive. And you're crewing on a type-l. No job offers from General Products or Ling-Standard Products?"

Harison gives a small laugh"I am no noble I come from an over populated industrial world we were so poor we couldn’t afford the second r in Harrison. As for my lineage and family it was just me and my mother she got me into military college from all her hard work she then died early into my career and my father died when I was very young. The navy does not lend its self to having a family. And thank you for saying my rise to Admiral is impressive you’re too kind."

(Iskavrin) "Our navy only has one admiral. Which is fine, and prudent. Our navy is father small. It however, does limit what a career in the navy is. How many hours of combat do you? I only have four myself, most of those gained when I was in an officer exchange program with the 3rd Imperium."

"Any time in combat that you come away from is commendable sir. I have no idea how much time I have racked up but I would say my space combat far out weighs an in person combat. Now is this going somewhere it’s feels like an informal interrogation or are we filling out my dating profile? In which case I like long walks on the beach at sunset."

(Iskavrin) "There no reason for you to come here. That doesnt mean, there isnt a reason why you're wanted here. So was there an offer of a fief on Asim or office and title here on the Floating Palace?"

"Sorry an offer to me?"

(Iskavrin) "Yes. And probably a marriage, offer as well. That being half the point of the offer." Iskavrin gestures around him. "This is it. The planet below was glassed, irritated, biological and chemical agents well. Anyone that didnt make here, died in orbit, and anyone that wasnt sufficiently underground on the surface is dead too. Sufficient population to prevent genetic doom, is around ten to twenty thousands. The Vesprex, have those numbers. We dont." Chuckles to himself. "Oh gosh, ten thousand on the floating palace. There isnt room as it is for the two gross or so up here already."

"I am not sure how many times I can say it or repeat it for you to understand I am only here cause of the ship I am working on at the moment was coming here. I have had no previous contact with any one from Dranix. Now can you accept this fact and move on?"

(Isavrin) "The King would, and has done so previously. Hence the danger. All the spots are taken here. For you to be here, someone has to go. Not me obviously. This discussion provides me ample opportunity to protect myself. And that arrangement is a surprise to you, so thats a no. That did not happen. Alright." leans back into his chair. "What are you views on commerce raiding?"

Harison shifts in the seats and leans forward you get the impression naval tactics is something of an interest of his. "Commerce raiding it’s an effect tactic if you have good intel on supply lines. Cutting off an enemy’s supples can have very negative effects on your enemy. I find soldiers lose a lot of there will to fight when they have empty stomachs for a long time or make very bad decisions. Then ships with no missiles or ammunition are not as effective.Why do you ask?"

(Iskavrin) He smiles at Harrison response. "Effective tactics, good way to sum up civilian causalities." He hears Harrison question and ignores it for a moment. "And you introduced yourself as part of the crew of the Pioneer, not the captain. So its good to know that an Admiral is willing to take orders, instead of giving them." he does a gesture and the holographic computer ceases to be. "I have not been told any information or plans, which would make these questions pertinent, or valuable to have had answered. Any questions about me or anything else in general? This privacy isnt easy to come by."

"Admirals always have to follow orders there not laws on to them selfs. You say have not been told any information or plans about what? From who? What’s this all about? It’s like your talking about some thing you think I should know but I have no idea what? As for questions about you I have only just met you and probably won’t see you again after this so I don’t really have any questions about you."

(white% Iskavrin smiles. "Well, really. Wanna put some money down on that? We can open a escrow account, 20k. 10 from me, 10 from you. Payout in a year to you if we never see each other again. And this is very expensive trip for a lot of nothing and no interest. At least 70k in expenses to get here and leave. Type-L has no cargo space, and we dont have any passengers to fill the 15," He has an pitch tone, noting its a question if its accurate. "Staterooms."

"Well this has been some waste of time have a nice day we are done here."Harison gets up out of the chair and heads to the door.

(Iskavrin) Iskavrin goes into hi dinning room/kitchenet and gets the casserole dish. He steps outside and hands them to the Hawk-warrior. They have it more small talk before he leaves and Iskavrin than returns inside, writes a letter to Lady Hill. Summarizing the meeting. End with the phrase, "work with the tools you have, not the tools you want. "

======= Second attempt an opening pose between Iskavrin and Admiral Dawn =======

Coordinating Messages after a day of meetings
1104-365 17:00 - Pioneer Bridge

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSV Pioneer
O Grp proposed. Looking for Results from your meeting(s). Verbal at your earliest convenience?

18:00 - Meeting between Lady Hil and Silas

A Royal Hawk Guard guides Silas from the Royal Docks through the Floating Palace and to the Royal Apartments.

Silas arrives at the Royal Apartments precisely at 16:55 to be ready when her butler opens the door at exactly 17:00.

(Butler, Lord Aramith Halginor II)"Welcome Senior Scout Silas Lane of the Imperial Scout Service, Lady Hil will see you now in the sitting room. He leads Silas down a short hall and into a sitting room draped in red, dripping in gold, with large velvet seats, tables with trinkets and pieces that are from antiquity scattered about. Seated in a large comfortable chair with a cup of tea in one hand is an older woman, human, grey hair, slight wrinkles, and a sharp sparkle in her eye.

(Butler)"Lady Hil, Senior Scout Silas Lane of the Imperial Scout Service is here to request an audience. He bows.

(Lady Hil)"Such a pleasure Silas, I will call you Silas..." She offered her hand to him.

(Lady Hil)"Tell me Silas, what is your favorite ice cream?"

"Thank you for entertaining me tonight, My Lady. I have greatly enjoyed the Floating Palace and the company of its fair people." Silas' golden eyes returned the sparkle. "Ah... icecream..." The tall spacer sighed and took on a mock serious tone, "Flavours are not a matter to be taken lightly! I have spent my life travelling to interesting and unusual worlds, and have sampled fare both rare and sumptuous and ...ahem... I have developed expensive tastes." He smiled broadly. "My favourite icecream is flavoured with the slightly savoury dustspice. Have you tried it? It induces a mild euphoria, more so than ordinary icecream" he chuckled. "Did you know, the euphoria that Aslan experience from the spice is said to be much more pronounced?"

(Lady Hil)"That is an ambitious choice. As is anything from Aslan culture here on Drinax. I will take your suggestion into consideration for future entertainment.

(Butler)"Your tea and liquour Lady Hil. There are also savory and sweet pastry bites. He leaves the tray on the side table between Silas and Lady Hil then moves to a rear corner of the room.

(Lady Hil)"Silas, I am aware you are traveling with an eclectic group that will be meeting with the King tomorrow. I have read the report that you recently lost a scout ship that was assigned to you at the hands of Oghma raiders. Indulge me. What are your opinions on such raiders? How would you like to react to them?"

"Hmm... you read the report. A regrettable episode." Silas frowned. "My opinion on the raiders? I imagine I'd share the general sentiment..." he waved a hand to demonstrate 'everyone hereabouts' "...the raiders are uneducated heathens and should be discouraged from such activities, forcibly. But this is no topic for genteel conversation." The momentary spat of irritability was dismissed along with the raiders."Tell me more of Drinax and your life here beyond the frontier. Do you ever yearn for worlds beyond? Are you content with the luxury of court life?" He was genuinely interested in everything along with the lives and ambitions of the Drinaxians.

(Lady Hil)"Silas, I am curious about your reaction to these raiders. Genteel conversations are often just a cloak for more pointed barbs and I prefer to have my conversations open so others understand what I am saying directly. I am interested in your response to these raiders. If you have a chance to discourage them from future activities would you do that rather than file report after report? Are you someone who can adapt from hunting a wild dog to bringing that dog under your own control?"

Lady Hil nibbles on a small snack as Silas thinks. Then just as he is about to speak....

(Lady Hil)"You asked about if I am content here on the Floating Palace. I am not. Anyone who is content is not striving for more. What I want is not more for myself. The King and I have had our time. What I want is for my daughter to have her time. I want to do what my great grandmother did not accomplish. I want to see my daughter secure her place as our King's heir and then be the first Queen of Drinax. To do that she will need someone to help control the wild dogs. The King understands this."

Lady Hil smiles at Silas, sipping a cordial as he finishes his snack

Now we arrive at our destination. The Palace veritably roils with intrigue and motivations, thought the Astrogator. "My Lady Hil! Make no mistake, I am an eager protagonist. Let me explain, for I have spoken none of my own ambition." Silas paused to order his thoughts. "If there were means at my disposal, rather than recourse to report the theft to the authorities, I might lead a mission to retrieve the ship from the Oghmans. As a means to further my own ambition of owning the freedom to the stars. Exploration and travel is my love and motivation for I am curious about every system and sophont. I want to know much..." Silas paused to wet his lips.

"This ambition of mine has and will be beset by powers large... and small, like the Oghmans. Properly resourced and as part of a motivated team, I would indeed bring the wild dogs to heel. For the betterment of the Reach and Kingdom. Where our ambitions coincide is the crux of our conversation. My current charter puts me aboard the Pioneer, which isn't designed for activities of what you alude to. So I will be a patient witness until I have an opportunity. I might more fully share your goals if I were resourced and outfitted."

(Lady Hil)"You have my ear Silas. I will arrange a meeting with my daughter for you tomorrow. When you meet with the Princess you will understand why I want someone outside of the Palace looking after her interests. I would not keep you here on the Palace but I expect regular reports on progress you make towards the goals she sets you towards. I look forward to our conversations in the future.

(Butler)"This way Senior Scout"

Silas considered the Lady's words as he returned towards the docks. You have my ear. I will arrange a meeting with my daughter… the Lady had said. The wicked tangle of the Drinax nobles.

Regular reports… the goals she sets you towards… Lady Hil wished that I look after the interests of her daughter, Princess Rao. Was the unspoken motive, "at the expense of Prince Harrick," the other potentate for the Dragon Throne?

It all seemed furtive and clandestine. But then was that what was being proposed? What was the King meeting with Captain Solis and the others about? Some great important scheme had begun and Silas was being drawn in as surely as a stricken ship toward a collapsed star.

It was a dangerous game, and Silas considered whether it was wise to get involved. Although he was already an accomplice. He had already lost his ship. He was landlocked (was the proper term gravlocked?) on Drinax until he took action, got himself aboard a ship, and turned his prospects around. Here he was consorting with a noble. Wasn’t that an improvement in his prospects? Hadn’t he come here looking for travel and adventure as an end to a relatively droll and lonely career with the IISS? He steeled himself. Decision and action was what was required. And a good fast ship. Something with sleek lines…

Ship of Unity

Calendar

1104-364 -- 1104-365 -- 1105-001

Timing of events
6:00 - Morning Meeting on Unity
8:00 - Meeting with Captain Solis and Provost Shala
8:00 - Meeting with Crockett, Silas and Mihel
??? - ???

Speculative morning thoughts

[Crockett is remaining on board the UNITY and hoping it will become clear to him how he is to get to the floating palace tomorrow and meetup with the original 'gang of five' for meeting with the King]

1104-365 7:00 - Unity Bridge Comms Center

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSV Pioneer
O Grp proposed. Results to Discuss. Unity 10:30.

1104-365 7:30 - Floating Palace Royal Dock

Mikhel sends an update message to Crockett, on landing on the Royal Dock:

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSP Voyager
O Grp Update. On FP. Available anytime before 10:30. Ack.

Upon arrival to the Royal Docks on the Floating Palace Captain Solis and Eleni walk over to the Ship of Unity for the arranged meeting with Provost Shala. Mikhel accompanied the Science Team, in case Crockett was available at short notice. The airlock opens.

[upon receipt of Mikhel's radio message responds] M Dromah, Vessel 'Pioneer' from J Crockett
Upon arrival Unity make your way to galley, I am there now awaiting your visit.

1104-365 8:00 - Unity Common room/meeting area

Solis, Eleni, Silas from the Pioneer

(Admin Aide Dar)"Welcome Captain Solis. We are very appreciative of you attending this planning session with us. she smiles and nods, then turns to Eleni, "You must be the Captains Aide. I will be glad to provide you with transcripts that have been suitably vetted after the meeting. We will not need you this time. I appreciate your work. I will inform you when the Captain is ready to return."

With a slightly raised brow, Athena said, "Your message indicated a query from Provost Shala on my previous work. I have brought Doctor Eleni Kagaragu," with emphasis on the doctor part "with me as she has collaborate and co-authored previous research with me. If this meeting is not related to my work, and the work I have done with others, it would be wise to indicate that now."

Adding a slight nod to the others with her, she added, "Silas is pilot and crew on the Pioneer and has offered to escort me here, and Mikhel Dromah has a meeting with another on the Unity, I believe. You may direct them as needed."

(Admin Aide Dar)"Welcome Doctor Kagaragu. When Provost Shala offered the invitation to Captain Solis I am certain that she thought it would be presumptive to ask for other members of the scientific staff to join. turning to Athena "I can say with all certainty that this meeting is solely based on your scientific credentials and your very well deserved reputation Captain Solis. I will go tell Provost Shala that you are ready to begin."

Admin Aide Dar exits the room

"An aid?" mused Athena, glancing at Eleni. "Perhaps one of the few things I do miss about having grad students about." She gave a small sigh and lightly rubbed her cheek. "This was originally proposed to me to be a query about my previous work, but now it is a planning session? I despise planning. Perhaps it is good you are here, Eleni."

As Eleni and Athena sit at the table a tall woman comes in carrying three data pads. "Welcome to the Ship of Unity, I am Provost Shala. Doctor Kagaragu thank you for joining Captain Solis and myself in this conversation. She slides a data pad over to each of you "Have you ever visited the Thalassa system?

She pauses while Athena and Eleni look over the details. Admin Aide Dar returns with coffee, tea, and breakfast danish.

"I've been to numerous systems since my time on the Pioneer as both researcher and Captain." Athena took a sip of coffee. Was this cup number two or three today? "What's the nature of your inquiry on the Thalassa system in particular?"

(Provost Shala)"This is a sensitive matter you understand. In the Thalass system there are huge floating cities. They are built on large rafts of floating woven organic matter. Unlike here, gestures out to the Floating Palace'They are not restricted to technology keeping their cities afloat. She pauses "at least not once the secrets are unlocked. The Thalassans guard the secret of how they genetically modified their native plants to grow and perform the way they do now.

taking a sip of coffee looking Captain Solis and Eleni.

Athena set down her coffee with a small, brief smile. Two and half. It would be three cups once this one was empty. Carefully, she said, "Although few, the data points you provide are significant enough to conjecture where you may want this conversation to lead. Perhaps you can provide the premise of your visit to Drinax and your end goal; however, grand as my curiosity is among many things in this universe, it is, unfortunately, often limited by funding."

"The benefit of remaining academic and being captain of my own ship," continued Athena as she sought out a danish to put on her plate, "is allowing myself to choose my own research. The corporate world may provide stability of financing, but they dictate curiosity."

She took a bite of the danish and another sip of coffee. Two and three quarters. "All that aside, there are no secrets in science. With the right tools, any knowledge can be unlocked. As the ancient saying goes, 'Science is a candle in the dark'. Given my research, hypothetically speaking on this matter, yes, I do believe I could shine light on that secret if things aligned to allow it."

(Provost Shala)"I am glad to hear that. We have gathered a couple of details that might help you solve this puzzle. passes along a new unmarked data pad "This is the primary research facility that we can determine there on Thalass. It is run by the government, the lead researcher for the bio-engineered rafts is a geneticist Dr. Thorkin. He is a very clever man. If you can get to him and bring his research to Torpol, or better yet, find a way to ..... persuade.... him to come to Torpol with you it could be very helpful for your prospects.

pauses as Athena reads the data pad

from Athena's Character Discovery. Enemy #1 from research - Genetist Dr Thorkin, Stole Athena's samples while on Folin in 1071, later claimed it was "lost in the confusion of Athena taking over as Captain of the Pioneer"

(Provost Shala)"I believe you have a private meeting with King Oleb tomorrow. I sense that he will be offering you a contract of some sort. Perhaps he is feeling that Asim needs more attention now. You are the type of person he would like. Bravado but not overbearing. What I offer you is a chance to do the work you want to do, assist a neighboring system, and demonstrate to your potential new benefactor that you will look for..... innovative... ways to achieve your goals.

Athena tapped the table absently as she considered the new information. A minor demon from her past, but a thorny one nonetheless. How to work this to her advantage without letting her simmering annoyances of old transgressions get to her? A lead researcher, indeed. On her stolen research. She downed the last of her coffee. Three.

"Thank you for the information, Provost Shala," said Athena, cordially. "As with any new data, I will need time to analyze it before coming to a result and deciding my next query. If you will allow, I would see the outcome of the meeting with King Oleb before giving a final verdict on my plans. But," continued Athena, her tapping moved to the data pad, "I am intrigued by the proposal. I will give you that."

Captain Solis was a near stranger to Silas and much of what was spoken of during the meeting was new to him. More yet had been revealed in this strange Palace of seemingly endless opportunity. As an impartial witness Silas kept a poker face throughout except to exclaim a congenial, "Fascinating!" regarding the Thalassan floating cities. He found he was enjoying being in the shadow of these Travellers and witness to events unfolding. Afterward in brief he thanked Solis for the opportunity to join and joked about "...whatever great chance might befall us next!" as they moved on to the next rendezvous.

(Provost Shala)"I would be glad to speak with you again tomorrow evening after your meeting with King Oleb during the day. I have one with him shortly. I will say as you consider your options. We do have excellent facilities on Torpol for all sorts of trade goods. Some of which need to be kept away from any prying eyes. Also I am certain you will find our customs and importation division glad to assist you in restraining anyone who has violated any legal provisions that need to be pursued. Provost Shala slides the unmarked tablet over to Athena for her to keep and stands up.

Admin Aide Dar comes into the room.

(Admin Aide Dar)"Doctor Kagaragu, Captain Solis, if there is anything else?"

(Provost Shala)"Dar, as you show our guests out remind James Crockett that he is part of our party when we meet with King Oleb at 12:00"

Admin Aide Dar leads the three of your group out the door.

As they walk back to the Voyager, Athena asks Eleni, simply, "What do you remember about Thorkin?"

(Eleni)"He was competent but unimaginative. He was easily able to follow a chain of reasoning but not able to make the leap to the idea of how to apply something to a new problem. If he is the person who built that bio-tech then my bet is he started with your notes. If we can get our hands on the research he claims he did then we can prove it belongs to you, well to the Pioneer."

the three move from the Unity to the Voyager

1104-365 8:00 - Unity Galley

Mikhel and Crockett

Admin Aide Dar leads Mikhel into the Galley to meet Crockett.

"How's it going, Jim? Thanks for meeting on such short notice. Transportation arrangements were early or too late, so I went for early. Sorry if that messed up your timings."

Mikhel will pass a thumb drive to Crockett. It will contain a similar report to the one Unity provided to Pioneer, but for the third contact, it will only say there is an object in the far edge of the system, "details TBD". The distance and direction are not included.

"Three things of any note came up on Pioneer's scan. One is a ship, station-keeping near the gas giants. We think it is an SDB watching over the gas giants."
"The second might be an abandoned asteroid station. Not sure what that is, but after the New Year event, it might be worth checking out."

Mikhel pauses, with a frown.

"The last was at extreme range, and we are not sure, yet, what that is. We are thinking Drinax Control may need to be consulted, and I will be making inquiries with them directly upon leaving the Unity."

[Crockett responds to greeting from Mikhel] I'm over the moon of Marduk, thanks. Welcome both of you to the Unity. How do you like my transport vessel I found back on Torpol there? ha ha ... I see you haven't been wasting any time with suggestion I gave you to check the sensors. The check at your end seems to have turned up some interesting data. I will check the thumb-drive after you leave, but meanwhile what are you thinking given this information? I have checked as best I could and have found no audio monitors in this section of the ship so our discussions are fairly secure. I like the two Provosts here and find they are mainly concerned with trade and have no other driving priorities to be concerned about. They've been very welcoming to me anyway.

"If you recall the discussion last night, I mentioned asteroid mining. And then, the scan last night suggests there is an existing facility already in place. I'm thinking it could, I repeat, could give the system a head start, if we entice a few prospectors to take a look."
"Other than that, we'd have a bit of a trip to check out the other target, with questionable return for the time and expense."
"I'm heading out to recce as much of the Floating Palace as I'm allowed to see. Maybe ask a few questions. If you have time, and nothing else to do, we could put four eyes on things, instead of two."
"At 11 hundred hours, the science crew has a meeting with the Scholar's Tower staff, to which I'm invited. I have a few medical inquiries I wish to pursue."

Sure. I can be an extra set of eyes with our good doctor. Should we leave now?

Mikhel gives a thumbs-up.

[prior to leaving the Unity with Mikhel...Crockett seeks out Administrative Aide Dar and coordinates with her his plan to go with Mikhel now and meet up with the Provost's group outside the meeting area with the King at 1145 hours (15 minutes prior their audience with King Olaf)...and seeks her approval of that plan]

(Admin Aide Dar)"I will radio you if there are any changes Sir Crockett. Enjoy your explorations. Be sure to wear your best."

[Before departing Ship of Unity...Crockett checks his cabin/stateroom/lodgings?? again to make sure he has notebook, writing utensil (writing pad of future) needed for meeting with King, mobile phone communication device and one last look in mirror to check how great he looks in his new cr500 suit he purchased back on Marduk.

1104-365 17:00 - Unity Bridge Comms Centre

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSV Pioneer
O Grp proposed. Looking for Results from your meeting(s). Verbal at your earliest convenience?

1104-365 17:00 - UNITY

Crocket on Unity to Pioneer M. Dromah
Copy your request for asap meeting aboard UNITY
I am aboard UNITY now and would welcome your attendance.
OUT

1104-365 18:00 - UNITY

Mikhel arrives at the Unity Airlock asking for M. Crockett.

1104-365-Unity to Pioneer Attn MDromah Afternoon meeting re trade follows here - Crockett

14:50 - Meeting in the Control Center with Baroness Hault-Miller and Crockett
"So Baroness Hault-Miller...Thank you so much for seeing me....I should explain that while I am really only a retired Naval Marine with the Imperial Navy most recently, I am travelling with a group who are seeking new trade opportunities and have asked for this meeting with you as I hear you are knowledgeable about possible opportunities here on Drinax.It is a new year for all and with it we anticipate travelling a bit throughout this region and wondering what type of goods might be of value here to those of you who live on the Floating Palace and what things you might have of trade value elsewhere?"
(Baroness Hault-Miller)"Sir Crockett. It is good to see you being proactive and coming to see me before attempting any new mass trading attempts. Certainly if you find a cargo that you feel the Kingdom will be interested in you should bring it to our attention. King Oleb XVI, long may he reign, has a good mind as you saw during your time at the Court. He is good hearted and wants what is best for his people. It can be challenging for others to see what is appropriate as trade opportunities. In the last six months I have turned away several disappointed ambitious independent traders who brought the wrong type of cargo to Drinax. The Baldo earlier this year tried with a cargo full of 'the latest in fashion and furnishing from the Gazulin subsector. He left with his hold still full, the only credits changing hands for fuel.
She picks up a data pad and starts moving about the room again. "If you find something that you think will be of interest to the Kingdom do message me or Ranchando and we will advise on the suitability. You have met Ranchando at the Bazaar?

1104-365 18:00 - UNITY

[Crockett appears to greet M Dromah] "Greetings. Great to see you 'Doc'. (I can call you anything but "Sir" right? LoL) Shall we just chat out here or would you like to grab something in the galley? Assuming you are on a schedule then let's chat here.
I did have an interesting meeting with the Baroness this afternoon and I got strong impression that RANCHERO is well-connected as far as she is concerned and our go-to person if we want direction on trade opportunities...and the fellow to MAKE IT HAPPEN.
What have you learned?

"I'm not on a schedule tonight. The next timing on my schedule is the Royal Run tomorrow, not quite at O-dark hundred. 8AM, local."
"The Tower tour was a smoke and mirrors show. We saw stuff, but nothing giving us anything I thought useful. No names to buttonhole for more info or help. You can have a copy of the info package, and see if I missed anything."

"We met the Prince. Not as healthy an individual as I'd expect, considering he was supposedly under TL15 rehab. Something is very interesting, and Doctor Solis might become involved. It will depend on tomorrow's meeting."

"The biggest surprise is who is related to whom. The head of the Scholar's Tower is the mother of the Prince? And we have no idea of her influence on the King. To whom is the Princess related? The place is a mine-field of social catastrophies waiting to happen."

"As for trade, I have no good feelings about Ranchando, and the more distance we can keep from him, the better I'll sleep. Look at this place. There is no economy. This place needs a complete overhaul. Getting anything going will need money. The mining station will most likely need an ovehaul, before it can be used. And we don't have a history, yet, to say why it isn't working. If we want to help, it is a mountain we'll be climbing, in full rucks."

Copy that. Not a happy picture. So you are back to the lovely labship now and we will see what tomorrow holds. The two of us are on same wavelength. I am happy to provide some security backup if we head for this distant asteroid of yours; join the Harrier crew we've learned about; or some other useful use of our time with an opportunity for each of us to enjoy ourselves and make some money perhaps on the side....Otherwise I intend to head back to Torpol with or without you and pursue something more secure I fear. See you at 11:45 tomorrow at the Palace my friend.

"We can only wait for the offer, and see how good, or bad, it might be." Mikhel ponders for a moment or two.

"I am not in favour of any ship that is not in, at least, good shape for jump travel. I can foresee accompanying you back to Torpol, in the short run, to check on mining options. This will take some effort to negotiate, if I don't have some hint of Drinaxian interest. It might still take a lot. I can see if I have anyone on the Sternmetal Horizons facility in Torpol that might be interested in a new venture.

As to my position on the Pioneer, it isn't a bad gig, just not ideal. It also depends on what the Captain/Doctor wants to do. She is getting pulled in a few directions, not just for possibilities on the morrow. More fallout to await."

Pioneer

Calendar

1104-364 -- 1104-365 -- 1105-001

Timing of events
6:00 - Morning Meeting on Pioneer
??? - ???
??? - ???

In the morning the crew wakes up and gets ready for their day.

Athena needs a ride down to the Floating Palace to be at the Unity at 8:00

Athena, Mikhel, and Hernández will have a meeting at the Scholar's Tower at 11:00

1104-365 6:00 - Morning Meeting on Pioneer

Pioneer Communications, this is Drinax control. I have several messages for you. Scholar Voha will be attending the meeting with Captain Solis at 11:00 at the Scholar's Tower. A guide from the Royal Docks will be provided. Imperial Consul Thao Poloc has scheduled a meeting with Admiral Harison and Lieutenant Sultana at 9:00 in the Great Hall. For Silas Lane Lady Hil has granted your request for an audience. She will be available for you to present yourself in her quarters at 18:00.

Drinax control, this is Pioneer. Messages received, thank you.

Sir Lt Sultana forwards their messages to Captain Solis and Silas Lane, then writes to Admiral Dawn, "Admiral, you and I have an appointment at 0900 in the Great Hall with Imperial Consul Thao Poloc. I'd like to meet with you in advance to discuss it, at your convenience. - Sultana"

Mikhel checks in with the bridge to see if anyone took a swing at the scan data. If the Morning Meeting is passed over, he will also forward the request for a lift to the Floating Palace, after checking with the crew for any medical needs. If the crew is healthy, and not in need of consultations, Mikhel is planning on Recce by walking around the Floating Palace, until the meeting at the Scholar's Tower.

Overnight Data from deep system scans. The expected Belt, and 4 gas giants and their moons are there. Mikhel finds it unusual that there is not a bustling activity out in the Belt or the various moons. His scans do pick up three things of interest for him. 1 - There is a SDB like A Bold Jewel that they were greeted by upon entering the system. It is not broadcasting anything. It does seem to be on stationary guard duty far out beyond the normal Jump Point. Perhaps guarding anyone from using the gas giants for fuel? 2 - There is what seems to be an abandoned mining facility/space port in the Belt. Distance and solar shadow zones prevent any better analysis. 3 - There is an abandoned Far Trader beyond the farthest gas giant, almost out to the Ort cloud. It looks to be a Marva class, which fits the history of Drinax being an old abandoned system.

Mikhel will pass on to the Captain and Sultana the results of the scan:
- One ship station-keeping near the gas giants,
- the possibility of an abandoned asteroid mining operation, and
- a possible salvage target, a 200dT 'Empress Marava'-Class Far Trader, nearly out of system.
The trader will have to be monitored to estimate travel for investigation. If the ship is viable, it would be a good ship for moving cargo (61 dT) around the near local systems. It is possible it is new, but could be 200+ years old, as well.

To Sir Lt Sultana
No need for a meeting about a meeting to which I won’t be in attendance. I am sure you have it well in hand. Also my days of being summoned by Imp bureaucracy are behind me.
Harison Dawn

To Harison - Understood. Sultana out

Sultana massages the bridge of his nose while considering the situation, then moves off to his quarters to prepare for the day.

Silas is woken by Vix at the scheduled time, apprising him of the communications from Sultana. He tends to his morning routine and has the AI companion reply for him. "Thank you Sultana. I'll meet Lady Hil tonight." He adds another message to all Pioneer crew. "I'll pilot Voyager today as ferry to and from the Floating Palace. Departure times by arrangement, thank you. Let me know if any of you need an escort at the Floating Palace." Silas felt that he may as well explore more of the palace, but as he had no business of his own, might tag along with another.

To Silas: I will need to be at the Floating Palace by 0730 for a meeting at the Unity by 0800. I have another meeting at the Scholars Tower at 1100 and do not expect to return to the Pioneer until after lunch or later. I will check to see if any of the other scientists wish to join the meeting at the Unity, but if they decline, it would be reasonable to have an escort as you offered as this is a new and unknowable location for me. Or, I suppose, if you like talk of science you may join as well. Either is acceptable. - Captain Solis

To Eleni: I am unsure what you and Sherris are currently planning, but Provost Shala of Torpol wishes to meet and discuss my work over breakfast. I'm extending the invitation to you and any other collaborators to attend if you wish. A tour of the Scholars Tower is at 1100 as well if that has not been passed on to you. - Athena.

1104-365 7:00 - Aboard Pioneer

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSV Pioneer
O Grp proposed. Results to Discuss. Unity 10:30.

To: Captain Solis, Lt Sir Sultana, Executive Officer, PSV Pioneer (Internal Comms Only)
CC: M. H. Dawn, M. S. Lane, Bridge Watch
Captain,
Two items are forwarded for future consideration and action:
1. An interesting development may allow an idea brought up at our meeting last night to be implemented with minimal effort and expense. Data received from the results of the Detailed Scan late last night indicates the possible existence of an abandoned mining facility/space port in the asteroid belt in this system. Further examination of the data, and inquiries with Drinax, are being conducted. A report will be made available ASAP.
2. The discovery of what appears to be a derelict ship on the extreme edge of the system may be a salvage opportunity.
a. Scan data suggested that this is a 200dT 'Empress Marava' class Far Trader. Condition is unknown.
b. Further tracking of this ship should advise us if it is under power and navigating intentionally, or not. Once it is determined that this ship is adrift, a discussion on recovery/salvage is proposed.
NOTE: There could be a requirement to report this ship to Drinax Control, and conduct a rescue process. Interstellar Law will have to be consulted. We may be able to claim salvage rights as the finder.
c. Recovery of this ship may require a few weeks travel to/from, and parts. Additionally, a pilot and an engineer should be considered for repair to minimum function and as a prize crew. Alternatively, remote control or auto-pilot may be the expedient means of returning the ship to Drinax, as even if the maneuver drive is functional, 1G max would be a long trip back.

Replay to Mikhel
Thats a good find are we sure it’s abandoned and not running silent out there trying not to be noticed if so there not doing a great job. I’ll have a look online and see if any of those type ships are missing and what the salvage laws are around this space.

Checking online reports and news on an information on missing or damaged class far trades operating or expected in the area.
Electronics (computers)
Skill+stat = +2
Taking my time =+2
Difficulty = Average
Roll 4 = 8 marginal success
Looking up local law on salvage
Looking up Salvage Laws
Unskilled + stat = -1
Taking my time = +2
Difficulty = Routine
Roll 7 = 8 Average Success

To Captain Solis: Thank you for the offer of joining you to the Unity visit. I will transfer and accompany you. - Silas

To Mikhel: Excellent work on the long range scan. I'll test some models for a course to the stray ship. I'm interested to see if any time may be saved via a grav slingshot or other tack. - Silas

Thank you for the information, Doctor. We will have to figure out what to do with it for our next steps. - Captain Solis.

Athena Solis: [SKILL] Advocate (2D+3) (vs Difficulty 8) [2d6+3 = 12]
[ +4 Effect] [Average SUCCESS]

Athena Solis: [SKILL] Diplomat (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 8) [2d6+3 = 12]
[ +4 Effect] [Average SUCCESS]

Results for Athena's and Harison's searches Harison can compare what he knows of the Imperium. If there is not an active search and rescue out for a particular craft then it can be thought of as salvage. If no one has put a claim marker on a derelict ship any prospector can haul it to the nearest Starport and make a claim on it for themselves. Harison looking for local laws finds it curious that effectively it is up to the King for who gets salvage rights. Harison can spot one time that Ranchando was refused the rights to a ships boat. Harison cannot find any claims on Salvage for any ships in the Drinax system. He can guess that this means either no one knows about the object on your scans, or no one has claimed it at least.

Athena knows from her legal background that salvage rights almost always net the finder 10-20% of the cost of the vessel found if not outright ownership. Athena also knows from dealing with many different system governments that traditionally Starport Control is who authorizes ownership over a derelict ship. Once the process starts it can take several months to complete, though sometimes waviers are granted to begin restoration work when it seems to be a clear case.

Sometime this morning, Mikhel needs a ride down to the Floating Palace. Perhaps transport for the various crew should be 'organized'. If anyone announces departure schedules, Mikhel would jump at the chance. He'll have to hang up the "Doctor's Out" sign on the Sick Bay door before leaving...

Transit times from parking orbit to Floating Palace?

Transit from the Pioneer to one of the landing docks is about 15-30 minutes. The Pioneer is just outside of the atmosphere.

Voyager scheduled to depart 7:10 for the Floating Palace. Tentative return 14:00. Other times by arrangement. - Silas

Mind if I hitch a lift instead of taking the Suraksha? - Sultana

1104-365 7:10 - Aboard Pioneer

Voyager departs with Silas piloting and Athena, Eleni, Sultana, and Mikhel on board to visit the Unity and the meeting with the Provost.

1104-365 7:15 - Aboard Voyager

So what are our thoughts on this maybe-derelict ship out there? If it's real, how did we detect it and no one else has before now?

"I'm thinking that nobody has noticed it, as there doesn't appear to be any effort to intercept it. There is a ship out by the gas giants, station-keeping. It would be the obvious ship to go out. If it has been intercepted in the past, was it too damaged to bring back? And if we are the only people who know it is there, it is because we got really lucky with the scan I did, using the Advanced Sensors on the Pioneer. I am surprised that the Pioneer has the best sensors in the system, if that is so, as the System Defence Boats should have as good, or better, than us."
"It floated through my head that the ship may have been out there since the big dust-up with the Aslan. However, if the ship is a Marava class, that ship design has only been around for a decade or less? According to Jaynes All the Universe's Ships, the Marava got it's type certificate less than a decade ago."
"Now, if we can get to it, and we can repair it, it is a free cargo ship. Book price for a new one is MCr60. If we want to move things around, it isn't a bad start for cargo. Jump-2 makes it really useful for quick trips to Asim and back, or a hop over to Torpol."
"Personally, the ship is much more useful than the POS Harrier we might get from the King. And less strings and obligations."

Sultana leans back in his chair. "Hmm. If it is a derelict, it's got to be in pretty bad shape. No one just walks away from a usable ship. Unless maybe the crew all died of a disease before they could make it back in-system? Or, you know, an alien parasite infected one of them, then burst free and massacred the rest of the crew, and is now just waiting out there in hibernation for its next batch of victims to arrive." He grins in amusement before continuing. "Anyways, I can look up the local salvage laws when I get some time, for both it and the mining facility. See what our limits are."

1104-365 7:30 - Floating Palace Royal Dock

Mikhel sends an update message to Crockett, on landing on the Royal Dock:

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSP Voyager
O Grp Update. On FP. Available anytime before 10:30. Ack.

Upon arrival to the Royal Docks on the Floating Palace Captain Solis and Eleni walk over to the Ship of Unity for the arranged meeting with Provost Shala. Mikhel accompanied the Science Team, in case Crockett was available at short notice. The airlock opens.

1104-365 17:00 - Pioneer Bridge

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSV Pioneer
O Grp proposed. Looking for Results from your meeting(s). Verbal at your earliest convenience?

Crockett on Unity to Pioneer M. Dromah
Copy your request for asap meeting aboard UNITY
I am aboard UNITY now and would welcome your attendance.
OUT

Mikhel checks in with the Bridge Watch, to verify any changes to the distant contact (Movement, attempts to contact, signs of life). Also, are any Drinax ships moving toward the mining station or the distant target.
Mikhel will also check with Scout Lane, for transport to the Floating Palace before 18:00 hrs.

Mihkel Dromah: [SKILL] Electronics(Sensors) (2D+2) (vs Difficulty 6) [2d6+2+2 = 10]
[ +4 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] 40 Minutes checking. For Detailed Sensor Scan, with +2 DM for Advanced Sensors.

Mikhel will leave finishing the scan to the Bridge Watch, and head to the spoke to catch Silus on the way down to the Floating Palace. There should be another scan, or two, from the day shift, to trend any movement, if there is any. Plot a path, and intercept, if there is any way to get out that far (m-drives don't work beyond 1000d?).

1104-365 17:30 - Pioneer

Silus and Mikhel head down to the Floating Palace for their respective meetings.

Free & Clear

1104-361 -- 1104-365 -- 1105-001

Timing of events
9:00 - Start of Day
10:00 - Jump Emergence Watch
20:05 - Emerge from Jump

1104-365 - 09:00

(Shipwide broadcast) We should be emerging from jump later today. We don't want to loiter around in empty space, people. We want to get back into jump space as quickly as possible; don't cut corners, but I want everyone to look lively. Our client has expressed a desire for speed, so time is money. Let's make it quick.

1104-365 - 13:00 Bridge

During the wait for emergence, Jeet goes through the software on the ship's main computer. This is just a look at the code in the Launch Solution program, not attempting any edits.

Jeet: [SKILL] Electronics (computers) (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 8) [2d6+4 = 14] [+6 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] Analysis of Launch Solution program. 5 Hours.

1104-365 - 20:05

The Free & Clear emerges from Jump unscathed an in deep space, devoid of any other objects visible nearby.

Jeet: [SKILL] Engineer (2D+2) (vs Difficulty 6) [2d6+2 = 9] [+3 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] Post-Jump drive checks. 30 Minutes

Jeet: [SKILL] Electronics (sensors) (2D+3) (vs Difficulty 6) [2d6+3-2 = 10] [+4 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] Detailed Sensor Scan of empty space (Civilian Grade Sensors -2DM. Lidar, Radar) 40 Minutes. Limited information out to 25,000 kms, minimal beyond that.

Analysis of scan results can wait, if nothing comes up as an alert. Analysis can take up to 6 hours. The Astrogation check will allow backtracking to this point, later. Jeet hopes.

Kalidaren: [SKILL] Astrogation - Deep Space to Marduk (2D+5) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+2 = 11] [+7 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] Jump Duration [148 + 6d6 = 172]

Jeet: [SKILL] Engineer (2D+2) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+2 = 5] [+1 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] Firing Jump drive. 40 Minutes Distracted by Scans?

Cal: [SKILL] Engineer (2D+3) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+3 = 10] [+6 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] Double-checking Jeet's work.

1104-365 - 22:00 Engine room

Jeet? Always double check that both port and starboard cadmium II landing cushions are demagnetized. You need to keep your mind on your task here. Complete focus.
He pauses.
It looks good. Punch us through.

1104-365 - 23:00 Bridge

Jeet: [SKILL] Electronics (sensors) (2D+3) (vs Difficulty 8) [2d6+3 = 9] [+1 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] Analysis of Sensor Scan data of empty space. 1 Hour.

Floating Palace

Calendar

1104-364 -- 1104-365 -- 1105-001

Timing of events
8:30 - Mikhel and Crockett recon, visit with Ops control
9:00 - Meeting with Imperial Consul Thao Poloc in the Diplomatic Quarter. Sultana and Harison invited
10:00 - Meeting with Lady Hil and Iskavrin Antelios Drax-Amadith
11:00 - Arrival at Scholar's Tower, Solis, Mikhel, Hernández
12:00 - Meeting with King Oleb, Crockett, Provost Shala, Khearl, other locals
12:00 - First attempt at meeting with Iskavrin and Harison
15:00 - Meeting between Baroness Hault-Miller and Crockett
15:00 - Meeting on Voyager after Scholar's Tower
15:00 - Second attempt at meeting with Iskavrin and Harison
17:00 - Coordinating Messages after a day of meetings
18:00 - Meeting with Lady Hil and Silas


[The day he gets to tag along with group from Ship of Unity to meet King Olaf at 12:00 NOON] Crockett standing by to receive travel instructions from Provost Shala's representative.....He is aboard THE UNITY in his quarters assigned and wearing his cr500 new suit for occasion.

1104-365 7:00 - Unity Bridge Comms Center

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSV Pioneer
O Grp proposed. Results to Discuss. Unity 10:30.

1104-365 7:30 - Floating Palace Royal Dock

Mikhel sends an update message to Crockett, on landing on the Royal Dock:

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSP Voyager
O Grp Update. On FP. Available anytime before 10:30. Ack.

1104-365 8:30 - Floating Palace Royal Dock

Sultana is greeted by Sir Thornonton III at the airlock to the Palace.

(Thornonton)"Welcome Sir Sultana. We met very briefly yesterday. I am Sir Thornonton III, I am here to escort you to your meeting with the Imperial Counsul. Did you have any questions along the way?"

Thornonton starts to lead the way through the maze of corridors, many of them full with boxes, as Sultana looks up at the upper levels he can see every balcony seems to have a plant hanging from it.

Sultana walks along behind Thornonton, looking around curiously at the Palace as they weave their way through it. "Absolutely, Sir Thornonton. I'm curious what the local perspective is on all of us outsiders who have arrived for the celebrations? I just happened to be in the region on my tour, but there seems to be a lot of highly-esteemed personalities that have arrived recently. Were they expected, or a surprise?"

(Thornonton)"I am not certain how many have come this time for his Majesty's, long may he reign, celebrations for the new year. There seems to be your crew that has generated the most interest. Many people are speculating on which one of you is the his Majesty's, long may he reign, surprise guest. Will you be running in the race tomorrow morning?"

"I just happened to be in the region, so I highly doubt it's me. But I suppose it's possible His Majesty, long may he reign, is a secret fan of my writings. I wouldn't put any money down on that though. As for the race, no one has talked to me about it. Yet. I left my rocket-powered rollerskates on the ship, unfortunately, so my odds are low."

(Thornonton)"No worries on that Sir. His majesty, long may he reign, leads a running race around the outer band of the Floating Palace. No one can use gravatics to help them be faster, though the King, long may he reign, does use them to help him stay more mobile and fit. The race is a slow jog around the perimeter so many sophonts participate and trail along after His majesty, long may he reign.

Stopping at a non-de-script door. "Here you are sir. I will be just down the hall there waiting to guide you to your next destination." He knocks and then leaves.

As Sultana is standing there at the door it suddenly HURLS open and a tall male human is standing there in very formal Diplomatic Uniform of the Imperium.

(Imperial Consul Thao Poloc)"Sir Lieutenant Gopal Sultana, and Admiral Harison Dawn, come right in.

He ushers Sultana in without a glance then closes the door. Looking around he suddenly freezes with his back to the door.

(Thao Poloc)"Wait, who, where, what... Where is Admiral Dawn?, oh no You are here, Sir Lieutenant Gopal Sultana, and not Admiral Dawn. What does that mean? oh no OH NO NO NO.You are here to replace me.... wait calm calm No you are not going to replace me, that would not be right. I have turned in all of my reports to the Emperor, He knows I am loyal, I would not be replaced by someone like you, no offense you you know, just that we are obviously very different people and not everyone is suited for OH OH OH NO, This can't be happening I did nothing wrong! All my reports have been turned in. I have been loyal! And now Admiral Dawn is going to replace me! This is very bad form! BAD FORM, This should not be tolerated.... oh oh oh NO No wait. If he is replacing me and you are here without him that means you are here to.....

visible panicked pause

(Thao Poloc)"NO], No no no, you are here to assassinate me. You are here by your self to kill me and make it look like an accident. Then you will install Admiral Dawn as the Consul and... NO that can't be. No that is not... EMPERORS BALLS] You are here to assassinate me, then when Dawn gets here you pin that on him and you take over! It all seems to clear now, I was a fool to work this hard all these years and expect that I would be treated fairly. This cannot be happening. I can pay you, I can find a way to help you get what you want. There is no way you want to work for the Imperium in a backwater like this for the rest of your career. There has to be something else you want to do in life.

pause for deep breath and more panic.

(Thao Poloc)"No You are an assassin. Your records show how many duels you fought, how you always go after someone higher up on the social chain than you, you never look down, always looking up, always trying to find the right.... just wait just wait, what was that he did...] AHH. If I challenge you to a duel you have to accept, and we have to do it out in public so everyone will know what you are doing right under the King's nose! YES!!!! YESSS!!! THAT is how I can escape this. I can just wait until you challenge me and then we can have King Oleb intervene and that will solve that. But then what do we do about Admiral Harison Dawn? That is still a problem, how can I avoid him taking over for me, he can't know about that, I can use that yes I can just stay calm, relaxed, peaceful Breathe.

(Thao Poloc)"Sir Lieutenant Gopal Sultana, It is good to see you, I have not had an official visit from the Imperium in over fourteen years. Of course I have been compiling my reports and adding what I can to the IISS library data is submitted every time a scout ship visits. I have conducted myself in a manner that brings the highest honor to the Imperium and.... Oh balls, please do not kill me.

Sultana stands perfectly still watching Consul Poloc have a nervous breakdown right in front of him. At the final plea not to kill him, Sultana can't help but chuckle. "Sir, Consul Poloc, please, have a seat and relax. As you can see, I am unarmed. I'm afraid Admiral Dawn had other calls on his time and wasn't able to accompany me."

Sultana moves over to another chair and sits down, hoping it will help calm Poloc's nerves. "Neither Admiral Dawn nor I work directly for the Imperium any more. I can't speak for the Admiral, but personally, I have no desire to replace you. And from what I know of the Admiral, he doesn't either."

Sultana spreads his hands out, palms up. "So, Consul. I'm here because you invited me. What can I do for you? How can I help?" He then leans back in his chair and crosses his legs, letting his right hand rest comfortably near the knife in his boot, on the off chance Poloc goes violent.

[SKILL] Diplomat (2D+1): 8

(Thao Poloc) sits down opposite the table from Sultana, then jumps up and moves to a different chair where Sultana cannot shoot him under the table. Then he moves over to the wall unit and opens a door. He pulls out a carafe and pours two drinks... then stops and pours them both back into the container.

(Thao Poloc)"Sir Lieutenant Gopal Sultana, would you like a drink? After just accusing you of being an assassin you might not want to drink from my supplies, but if you brought your own, or if you want to select something here for us to drink that you would trust. he takes a deep breath "I am certain you understand what it is like to be out on the edge of civilization and to be on your own with no one to rely on. It was a great surprise to see a ship like the Pioneer show up, then to discover the likes of... the important passengers aboard and traveling here to Drinax. Inevitably to see me. With no warning. As would be expected if you are here to replace me. "

Sultana gives a small dismissive wave with his left hand. "Don't worry about it, Consul. I sympathize with your situation, although I've never been in it myself. I'm in this region of space by pure happenstance, and if the Admiral were here to replace you, I'm sure he'd have found a way to attend this meeting. So, let's just let bygones be gone by, and start fresh, shall we? No hard feelings on my part, I assure you."

"As it is, I'm just knocking about at random, looking for something interesting to spend a few years on. What do you think my odds are on finding something amusing here? Are there any tips you can offer me for dealing with the local nobility or royalty? Is there anyone I should keep my eye on? I'd hate to accidentally step on toes and make problems. Or, to put it another way, who here is Nice, and who is Naughty?"

(Thao Poloc)"Sir Lieutenant Gopal Sultana I have thousands of pages of notes on all of the leading members of this Court. If you want to catch the King's ear being good at drinking helps, he is a boisterous person. For what is happening now at Court. I suspect you and Admiral Dawn are the secret guests that His Majesty is going to meet with tomorrow. If you are not here to assassinate me then that would be the next logical reason for you to be here. For the people you should pay attention to Ranchando is a very good start, for an outsider he is very well connected. Lord Wrax will want to speak with you after seeing me. He will want to try to wring any information he can about what dossier you have presented to me. The sophonts of the Scholar's Tower wield a good bit of power but hey are very secretive. Prince Harrick was recently revived... at least he has reappeared in public. I have heard some say he is the secret guest tomorrow but seriously, if he is already in the Palace, and everyone knows he is recovered, how could that be a secret guest worth speculating on? If you can get Princess Rao on your side that will weigh well with His Majesty. He is prone to give her suggestions a great deal of weight. Finally I would say Lady Hil's special relationship with the King might be of interest. She is not one to enjoy the company of military types, to Lord Wrax's dismay.

Sultana leans back and steeples his fingers together in front of his mouth, taking in what the Consul has said and thinking about it. "Hmm... very interesting, thank you. I tend to picture these situations as a cast of characters, and that has filled in some of their roles for me, quite nicely."

"So, Lord Wrax is going to want to wring out whatever information I give you right now? He is the, or one of the, leading military people here, correct? I'm guessing he probably won't believe it if I say I gave you nothing, will he?" He shakes his head slightly. "So, the next question is, what information shall I let him wring out of me? What juicy tidbits did I bring you from the Imperium? Anything that might send him on a small goose chase looking for a file that doesn't exist? Maybe a sealed file of some sort, from Imperium Intelligence, about the military and diplomatic situation here in the Reach, but as it's sealed I have no way of knowing what's in it."

He looks over at Thao Poloc. "What do you think? Complete and unbelievable honestly, or believable deception?"

(Thao Poloc)"I do get regular reports back from the Imperium. If you consider yearly reminders regular. I have been here for the past eighteen years and I expected to be here another decade or more. Part of my surprise of seeing you and Admiral Dawn on the list of passengers with the unusual appearance of the Lab Ship Pioneer. I had not heard of it before. Apparently there is a notice out from Naval Intelligence that was issued fifteen years ago for a violation in the Asgard system. It is a low level intelligence request, it does not show up on the standard Starport Administrative reports. Of course anyone who delves into the history of the Pioneer finds the involvement in the Fourth Frontier War an controversial incident. Perhaps if we direct Lord Wrax towards your Captain Solis that would be enough to keep his attention for a while."

Sultana nods. "That might work. Would you mind horribly if I reviewed your files on the Pioneer? I only knew the barest details before boarding, and I haven't wanted to pester the Captain with intrusive questions. She's not much into smalltalk, you see. And of course I wouldn't try to hack any of their secure files. That'd be a violation of my contract and ethics."

(Thao Poloc)"Certainly, I can give you all the unclassified information." He pings over a file that describes the Pioneer System History with notes on the time in Esalin, Emerald, Asgard, and Peridot highlighted.

Leaving this vague for RP purposes, Sultana can (or not) talk with Athena about those incidents.

(Thao Poloc)"Thank you for your time Sir Lieutenant Gopal Sultana. Would you like an invite to the Royal Run tomorrow morning? I would be glad to include Admiral Dawn as well."

Lt Sultana takes the file and stands up. "No, thank you, Consul. I'm glad we were able to get past the misconception, and hopefully we'll be able to work together again." He grins mischievously, "If the price of making Harison run is that I have to run as well, then so be it. Yes, invites for both of us, please. He's probably in better shape than me anyways, but it'll still be fun nonetheless."

Lt Sultana walked out of the nervous Consul's office, careful not to expose himself as an easy target in the doorframe. The ideal time for the Consul to shoot him if he was going to was at the start of the encounter rather than now, one never knew with desperate souls.

As he gathered up his escort and started walking back to the shuttle, he sent a message to Admiral Dawn: "Got our tickets for our first opportunity to try and impress the King early tomorrow morning. You and I will be in the Royal Run. I suspect the strongest competition will be for second place, behind the King. Get your track shoes ready, Old friend."

Partway back to the shuttle, he pauses to ask his escort, "I'd like to take a detour, if that's alright with security. Is there some place where I can just sit and get a good view of the Palace, just observe it for a while? I'd like to get a good feel for it as a whole, if that's possible. Maybe you could tell me a little bit about what it's like to live here, if you're willing. This looks like a good setting for a future book, and it would help me paint an accurate picture."

1104-365 8:30 - Floating Palace

Mikhel and Crockett Depart the Unity for a Recon by Walking Around.

"As there will be a tour of the Scholar's Tower later in the morning, I'm looking for other things for now. I will be giving people in general a visual check for health and well being." Mikhel will look for anyone indicating an illness or injury, and focus on a remote diagnosis.

"Oh! Right! We should be heading for Starport Control. That is on the other side of the Palace, by the Starport Docks. There is someone there that can answer questions on the scan results. Let's put some strut in our step, Marines!"

[Crockett ups cadence but halts upon appearance of ROYAL GUARD]

As Mikhel and Crockett go to exit the Royal Docks they are met by a Royal Hawk Guard.

(Royal Hawk Guard)"Hello Gentles. Did you need to go somewhere this morning?

"Warrior! How extraordinarily perceptive of you! In fact, we do. Do you know where one might find Starport Control? I have some questions to ask. Is an escort required? We wouldn't wish to impose upon anyone's valuable time."

(Royal Hawk Guard)"That is not a problem at all, consults his data pad Medic Dromah and Sir James Crockett. I would be glad to escort you over to Control. It is on the starboard rim of the Palace. Will anyone else need an escort to someplace else in the Palace?"

"I am not aware of all the Pioneer's crew's schedules, so there may be others that wish to take in the wonders of the Floating Palace. There is the group going to the Scholar's Tower at 11, this morning. I am supposed to be on that visit, as well, so our inquiries at Spaceport Control will not be too extensive. If you are able, and willing, Warrior Phraedh, we would welcome the assistance in directing us to Starport Control.

Hopefully, nothing too dramatic happens on the way to the other side of the Floating Palace.

(Royal Hawk Guard Phraedh)"I will wait here for you Medic Dromah. I will make sure you keep your appointment at the Scholar's Tower. I will radio over to the docks to bring anyone else over to meet you."

Mikhel attempts to keep his eyebrows from going up. OK! So, the Warriors are just being helpful? Not being chaperones to keep guests from seeing things they shouldn't? Hmmm...

Once Crockett and Mikhel arrive at the Control Centre, Mikhel will ask to speak with the Operations Officer, or the person in charge of the Centre. Mikhel will start the discussion with an apology for conducting a deep scan of the system, without first asking permission, or at least warning the Centre of the use of the scanning equipment. Then, if they aren't too hostile, proceed with a discussion of the results...

"Hoorah! Now this is the side of the "Doc" I like to see."

(Operations Officer)"Welcome Sir Dromah. I am Senior Warrior Tollar. What can I do for you?"

"The Pioneer used its scientific sensor array to do some scans, as I had an idea about possible economic ventures. I spent the first 18 years of my life on a Mining Drone Control ship, in an asteroid belt, and wanted to see if there was something in the Drinax system that could help the local economy. To my surprise, the scans suggested that there is an existing mining station already in your system. Is there anything you can tell me about that facility?"

(Operations Officer Tollar)"Well Sir Dromah, that mining facility is in bad shape. There is nothing on my logs to show that anyone has been there in three years."

"Is the facility Drinaxian property, just inactive? Was there a company running it that left, and why? I ask, because I'd like to get some miners in here to start generating income for the system, and resources to start up manufacturing and get Drinaxian technology up and running."

(Operations Officer Tollar)"For who owns that currently? I would venture no one. Anyone could attempt to restart it I suppose. His Majesty, long may be reign, would be pleased to see an income I can imagine. It would take some source of funding to start it, and someone with practical knowledge. All of the key engineers are busy keeping the hydroponics working as best they can. I am certain that things will get better, His Majesty, long may he reign, will bring things to rights soon enough. I hear Baron Thane Vaelan is expected to return from a mission soon. He is the top engineer from the Scholar's Tower and I know he can get those hydroponics working better than ever.

"Who can I talk to about mineral rights and licensing for mining, Snr Warrior Tollar? What agency is the Office of Primary Interest? I have a few ideas that could get some project working, but before I go looking for potential miners, I'd have to have some incentive to dangle before them."

Whatever info Snr Warrior Tollar provides, will be noted by Mikhel for future discussions with that office/individual.

"Last thing before I go, Snr Warrior Tollar. How far out do your scanners reach, or do patrols extend? If there was something on the far edge of your system, would it be a concern? Do you extend rescue/salvage out very far? Yes, we have detected something almost out of your system. The Pioneer is tracking it, to see if it is adrift or under power. And the Pioneer is interested in putting a claim on that object, if there is any value to it."

Mikhel will, eventually, ask Starport Control to contact the Pioneer for confirmation on any movement of the "distant object". Being that the first scan was around midnight, there has been 8+ hours for any movement to indicate intelligent control. Also, Mikhel will check if Pioneer has detected anything like an attempt of communications from the object. This will be in the presence of the Center Commander. If there is movement or communication, Mikhel will provide the scan data to the Commander. What Starport Control does is up to them, as the Pioneer and crew are not, technically, at liberty to go wandering off after the contact. At least until 002-1105. If the Starport Control is not able to do anything, or determines not to do anything, Pioneer and crew can make plans for after the meeting with the King.

Question to BOB: Range/Duration of a Probe Droid? Probably not across a planetary system, but Mikhel should know if the Pioneer's probes are a viable option. If nothing else, get one started on the way as a relay for comms and scans.

For the drones on the Pioneer they are not capable of moving that far on their own... at least not in a reasonable time frame. Such drones do exist, but the Pioneer has used drones more for planetary observation while working on the surface.

(Operations Officer Tollar)"Sir Dromah I cannot answer to the who to talk with about rights. It would be someone at the Court but it could be one of several. For selling and purchasing Ranchando seems to have His Majesty's, long may he reign, ear currently. I can ask for you to get a better answer. One of the patrol leaders? Or someone in the Scholar's Tower? I will think on that and message you later this evening.

"Out of your area of expertise. I appreciate your candour on not being able to provide advice on this topic, without research. Ranchando wouldn't be my first pick for this subject, either. But what do I know of the hierarchy of the Floating Palace? I look forward to any information you can provide."

(Operations Officer Tollar)"For that other object that your ship's sensors picked up. I will add it to our sensor tracking list. I can have that for you tomorrow. If there is something out there it is likely old junk from the Devastation."

"Hmmm... If our scan is remotely correct, the ship type is too new to have been from an event 200 years ago. Again, I would appreciate any confirmational data. I will also send anything along that we have."

"Senior Warrior Tollar, thank you ever so much for your time. If there is anything we can do on the Pioneer to assist the Star Guard, please contact the ship. We bid you a good day, and an uneventful shift."

1104-365 9:30 - Floating Palace, Outside the Starport Control Centre

Mikhel and Crockett, standing in a corridor...

"Drinaxians are as careful of blurting out free info as we are. Now, what to take in, before the Tower tour, Crockett? Now where too? I have a bit of time, perhaps we wander over toward the Scholar's Tower, and see what we stumble across?"

Well Mikhel..I'd sort of like to see if we could find and make acquaintance of a trade office for future reference....just to establish our personal credentials somewhat. What do you think about that?

"Have you any idea where that might be? That 'Ranchando' fellow may have trade in this system secured."

Maybe there's a trading corporation the officials at the Royal Dock might know of for one, then if there is a financial institution nearby on our walk around they may have an inkling....If we could just get a lead or two today...there's always Day Two of the New Year to pursue things...also I'm going to ask the Provosts when I see them at Noon if they trade with anyone specific here on the Floating Palace???

"We can ask the Hawk Warriors at the Royal Dock, perhaps. Some of the delegates on Unity might also know of traders other than Ranchando. Also, Dawn and Lane have been doing the trading on Pioneer? They were to see about getting something for our cargo. We should check with all of them?"

"I should start making my way toward the Scholar's Tower. But, if it won't take too long, I could accompany you to the Royal Dock and get a few answers before we part ways."

Mikhel and Crockett make way back to Royal Docks, bumping into first official looking person on docks Crockett asks...

"Excuse me Sir but might you direct us to official down here on Royal Docks that looks after customs clearance and trade matters?"

(Royal Hawk Guard)"That would be Straphandra Hault-Miller, Baroness of Algra-reev Sir Crockett. I can ask for an appointment for you if you like."

Yes If an appointment could be set up asap for myself it would be most appreciated” [then to Mikhel he says] “You keep your appointment at the Scholar’s Tower and I will go see what can be learned about other trade opportunities. That sound like a plan to you?

(Royal Hawk Guard)"Very well Sir Crockett. I have arranged for you to have a short meeting with Baroness Hault-Miller at 15:00. I will escort you back to the Control Center to be there for the meeting.

1104-365 10:00 - Floating Palace, Royal Apartments

Iskavrin Antelios Drax-Amadith arrives at the Royal Apartments precisely at 9:55 to be ready when her butler opens the door at exactly 10:00.

(Butler, Lord Aramith Halginor II)"Welcome Lord Iskavrin, Lady Hil will see you now in the sitting room. He leads Iskavrin down a short hall and into a sitting room draped in red, dripping in gold, with large velvet seats, tables with trinkets and pieces that are from antiquity scattered about. Seated in a large comfortable chair with a cup of tea in one hand is an older woman, human, grey hair, slight wrinkles, and a sharp sparkle in her eye.

(Butler)"Lady Hil, Iskavrin Antelios Drax-Amadith is here to request an audience. He bows.

(Lady Hil)"Such a pleasure Iskavrin..." She offered her hand to him.

(Iskavrin) Iskavrin arrives to meet Lady Hill, in his Drax finest. Which isn't that fine anymore. It was at one point. What were once right proud color of Draxian empire have faded with repeated centuries of wear. The stitches holding it together can no longer be kept hidden. There are clearly areas on the outfit that held precious jewelry that have been sold to keep his house, and the Palace afloat, figuratively and literally. With this being a formal call, he has also arrived with his family officer sword, which sits inside a new sheath, that was given to him graduating Naval Academy. He takes Lady Hill in his delicate but well practiced hand with a bend knee, acknowledging her higher station, in the small eroding hill they're all trying to be a King of. "Lady Hill, as summoned, I have arrived. What may my house do for yours?"

(Lady Hil)"Do sit Iskavrin. Aramith fetch us tea and cakes. If there are of those spiced ones left bring two. He bows and heads off to another room leaving the two of you in private.

(Lady Hil)"I do hope your family, She gives him a knowing look "Is doing well and has what they need. That is why I am glad you came to see me today. My daughter has convinced Oleb to some extravagant plan that she has conceived for his new toy. I would surmise you have a good guess at what Oleb wants to do with a fancy ship like that. I am in agreement with my daughter that it is much to valuable to be used as a play toy, it should do something more substantial. Under your leadership her plan might stand a chance. I will speak to Lord Wrax about insisting you be involved to allay his fears of losing such a prize to someone's wandering eye. "

The butler returns with a small trolly. Platinum, with gold plates, velvet napkins, and almost see through fine china cups. Filled with plates of cakes, jam, and tea. He fixes a cup for Lady Hil, then for Iskavrin. He then moves off to some other space to give privacy again.

(Iskavrin) Iskavrin takes a chair as asked. "It was quite the pleasant shock and surprise having a Harrier recovered. My great great..." He rolls his head to emphasis there are a lot more greats. "Grandmother, was a captain of a Harrier. Ive been most curious to see it. The Tower however has been most covetous." He pauses and gives the inquiry some thought. "With the payout for certain items from the breakyards below, and their specifications, it would suggest they are not for export, and not for repair for the Floating Palace." His brow furrows. "He's restoring it? Why? I sure Wrax would love another jumpship. But an additional jumpship is just an expense that can't cover itself."

(Lady Hil)"I am glad you are seeing this from my side. I feel that Lord Wrax will be very wrought over not controlling such an asset. I am pleased to see you volunteering to be part of this new mission. I will speak to His Majesty to make him aware of your involvement, as well as Lord Wrax. she smiles and sips her tea "I did have one other minor problem you can solve. I had requested a new quarterly supply of respirator filters but they are the wrong style. With your contacts on the surface, I am certain you can find a place that can use them. Thank you for taking those out of my quarters. Aramith will help you move them. Did you have any other questions for me Iskavrin?"

(Iskavrin) He chokes at being volunteered on his behalf. "I do beg your pardon, Lady Hill, but I am no longer with the Navy. Wrax, as you know made sure of my removal. I do not have King Oleb ear to get myself reinstated, and please forgive me, but I do not think you can get me reinstated either. Even if it were to happen, then Lady Hill, I would need protection and support from Wrax's faction. Anything I do, will be seen as incompetency and treason." He considers his words. "If its not within th Navy, then it cant be crewed by the navy. It cant be crewed by the Vesprex, that would cost too most political capital for King Oleb to do."

(Lady Hil)"This is why you are a good fit for this position. You are not Navy, you are not Vesprex, you are an independent non-aligned person. Someone who can balance out whom ever is in His Majesty's ear that is trying to balance out Lord Wrax in his other ear. You are quite capable of cutting between the many obstacles. Lord Wrax will be happy to have you off the Palace for a while, His Majesty will do what I say in this, and my daughter will get the information you discover and provide me with. she smiles and sips her tea "I have one other meeting I need you to attend for more information for my daughter. There is an Imperial Admiral, an Admiral Dawn by name. He might be here to replace our dear Imperial Consul Thao Poloc, which would be surprising as I am not aware His Majesty have requested a change. I look forward to hearing your opinion on the man after you meet with him. He arrived on the Pioneer Lab Ship yesterday. Find out why he is here, if he is suitable then recruit him to work with you on your new project.

1104-365 11:00 - Floating Palace, Scholar's Tower

Mikhel and Crockett part ways at the entrance to the University Grounds. Crockett could follow up on the Ranchando comment from Mikhel or return to the Unity to prepare for the meeting with King Oleb in an hour. There is a Hawk Guard that can take him either way.

Athena, Mikhel, Hernández, Eleni, Silas and (a bit of a surprise) Sherris are on time at the gates to the University Grounds.

(Royal Hawk Guard Phraedh)"I will wait here for you. The Scholars prefer to not have the guards on the grounds of the University unless needed"

A young human male comes to greet the group. He seems a little anxious and reluctant.

(Scholar Nievas)"Hello Captain Solis, Baron Hernández, Doctor Kagaragu, Professor Sherris, and Sir Dromah. High Scholar Voha is waiting for you inside. She is interested in hearing about your travels and is pleased with your interest in the University.

"The tour is appreciated as we're equally interested in seeing what is done at the Scholar's Tower."

Mikhel will hang back and do the sponge-mode thing for a bit. Mikhel will look for a moment to pass a quiet word or two to Scholar Nievas, as surreptitiously as possible. Mikhel will suggest that somewhere in the visitor notes on the guests they put a comment beside his name. 'Please do NOT call M. Dromah 'Sir'. Use: 'M.'; 'Mister', 'Medic' or if in desperation for a title, 'Lance Sergeant' or 'Sergeant'. Never 'Sir'. Mikhel will ask that this note be passed to other organizations, such as the Star Guard, if the information the Scholar's Tower uses is not normally shared. It would be greatly appreciated.

(Scholar Nievas)"Very well Medic Dromah, if you will all fallow me I can take you through the halls. Do be careful. We scholars are now on break. Three days off, then everyone must report back on the third. We are going to go up to the fourth floor. Most of the classrooms are on the first three floors, then the dorms are on the sixth floor and higher. I think the High and Grand Scholars like to be able to keep a watch to see if we sneak out after hours."

Silas follows the group but couldn't help ask, "Are the students confined to the tower through their break? What kind of festivities do they enjoy at this time of year?" The spacer was curious as to the ways of the Drinaxians and had enjoyed wild parties at universities the other side of the Void. Surely the students would party and prank this time of year?

(Scholar Nievas)"Oh we are not locked in at all over the break. Most of the scholars are here, though I would guess either sleeping or out visiting the gardens or the Bazaar. Three full days off is a rarity so people take advantage of that."

He leads your group up a wide curving staircase that has landings on the second floor, the third floor, the fourth floor, and continues up to stop on the fifth floor.

(Scholar Nievas)"We go through here, opens the double doors if you were to go to the end of that hall the stairways to the scholar dorms start on this floor.

He leads you down a short hallway and turns to the left opening up one set of two double doors. You are standing on the top of a lecture hall, semi circular with steps going down from several areas down to an open area in the center with a large flat wall for projections behind it. Standing there is a human woman, well dressed with a clean jumper, several pockets, and a lab coat with extra large pockets on the outside. She seem to be in her mid fifties. She looks up and waves a hand dismissing something that was projected on the table in front of her.

(Scholar Nievas)"High Scholar Voha, your visitors are here. Captain Solis, Baron Hernández, Doctor Kagaragu, Professor Sherris, and Medic Dromah. He retreats back up a couple of stairs to wait by the doors. High Scholar Voha gestures you to come down to the front row and take a seat.

With a flashback to her student days, Athena took a front row seat without hesitation. She had always been the one up front, loaded with questions, writing down everything at lectures. She started to pull out her data pad before pausing, and asking, "Is notetaking appropriate for this presentation?"

(High Scholar Voha)"I appreciate the enthusiasm, Captain Solis. I still get the itch for notes also. You can have the notes here, she flicks the data report over to Athena's data pad. "Feel free to share that with everyone on your team. That contains the organizational structure for the University, our current class and testing fees, courses offered, a selection of our scholar's research papers available for use. I know you were invited by His Majesty, long may he reign, for some special project he has. My guess is he wants your expertise in terraforming and increasing the agriculture output for the systems and locations Drinax controls. Have you had your meeting with him yet?"

Mikhel does the poker face thing, pretending polite interest. The Scholar's Tower is not in on the plan. They are in on the refit for the ship. They have to be. Compartmentalization? Are we being snowed? Wait and see.
Mikhel will anticipate an image showing the structure. He's hoping it shows the whole organization, but fears it will only show the educational side. Mikhel wants the medical staff, or at least names he can file away for future button holing. History or Geology for chasing down the mining? Let's see what we get for info.

"No," said Athena, brusquely, as she skimmed the notes and shared them with the team. She reminded herself she was simply a guest here and would be treated as one. She set the data pad down, ready to proceed, as she asked, "So a presentation then a tour, I presume?"

As Mikhel and Athena skim through the notes you see that they are very extensive. Number of scholars but no names, number of specialties but not who is in which, a list of sections and where on the University Grounds each is. Mikhel's interests he spots that Cybernetics is in a separate tower on the grounds isolating them from the rest of the University. Athena spots that the Agriculture section is missing a section head. They both look for the regenerative section and see that there is none listed.

(High Scholar Voha)"Doctor Solis, I would be happy to give you a personal tour of the grounds. But first I wanted you to meet a special guest.

(High Scholar Voha)"Come out son", She turns to her left and the door opens slowly. With a slight hitch in his step a waxen faced human male steps into the room and pauses near High Scholar Voha. "May I introduce Prince Harrick, the once and future King of Drinax" She kneels for him.

(Prince Harrick) "Hello, thank you for visiting our Kingdom. I am glad you came"

(High Scholar Voha) raises an eyebrow to the seated group.....

Stars! I'm not even going to get to the King, long may he reign, before I get a flying lesson.

Silas stood to bow following proper protocol before a noble of this rank. "Thank you for joining us here..." The end of the sentence might have implied a question as to why the Prince would join them here. Or was his appearance pre-arranged..? The spacer then lowered his eyes seguing to his comrades to progress this surprise meeting.

"Fascinating," whispered Athena quietly to herself. So somehow they truly brought the prince back - but not perfectly. Unfortunately, as much as she wanted to inspect the figure before her, perhaps find a way to get some samples to explore in her lab, learn the details of the process and how to perfect it, once more, propriety stood in her way. That red tape, etiquette bureacratic nonsense that always stood in the way of her curiosity and proper science. And sometimes never lifted, but if she followed those rules for just long enough? That gamble had paid off plenty of times. And if it didn't? Well...

Clearing her throat lightly to hide the word that slipped out, she stood and followed the lead of High Scholar Vola, giving an appropriate bow as she could behind the table, saying louder with purpose to actually be heard this time, "An honor to meet you, Prince Harrick."

Lighten up, asshole! This guy just about bought the farm in action. I can respect that, at least. But, a salute isn't appropriate anymore, cause I'm not a soldier now. Alright. Start acting somewhat civilized, jerk.
Mikhel stands, and gives a crisp, full bow, holding it for the military standard pause, "2,3". The guy isn't giving off the usual narcissist vibe. Give him the benefit of the doubt for now.

Hernández, Sherris, and Eleni all stand, bow and take their seats again.

(Prince Harrick) "I know the question you want to ask is 'is that really him'. I can say that my mind is sharp, my body is slowly learning to be me again. Thanks to my mother." He looks over at High Scholar Voha and slowly smiles. Then he turns back to the group. "I would like to join you on your tour but I would slow you down. I hope to see you tomorrow morning for the race." He nods and the slowly turns and walks back out the door moving stiffly.

barely letting him clear the doorway, (Sharris)"That is fascinating High Scholar. Are you doing his reintegration? Does his mind really retain all his memories? Does he remember the accident?"

(High Scholar Voha)"I can assure you that my son has shown great strength in his recovery. He remembers everything in his life, with some normal blind spots from trauma."

(High Scholar Voha)"Are there any other questions before we begin our tour?"

Athena watched the door the prince left through, thinking. Of course she had questions, but which were appropriate for this moment? She did find it mildly interesting that he referred to High Scholar Voha as mother. Was it biological or altruism for the part she played in his rebirth? Questions usually better left to Sherris, but the thought of any of her previous work referring to her that way made her internally shudder a bit.

"Just three that seem appropriate for the moment and the setting," said Athena, thoughtfully. "Forgive my ignorance High Scholar Voha, but are you his biological mother or is it reference to the part you played in his... recovery? How long has it been since you started the process to get to this point? And is the ....recovery still ongoing or is this the limit you've reach for cell regeneration? Kinks you have not yet worked out in regards to gait and the like?"

Still looking towards the door, Athena absently tapped the table, a bad habit when her thoughts started to get beyond the present and into the theoretically. The tapping stopped as she looked at Scholar Voha, a light smile, as she added, "The rest such as how you were able to get the neuron connections to mimick his previous life close enough for successful reintegration, and questions on cell lines and growth, can wait for another day, and without an audience that'll be bored by that, if you are even willing to share. I do understand if you do not."

"My questions can wait for after the tour. If any of my skills might be of use during our time here, I offer my availability to you as a DWB professional. If you didn't pick up the Pioneer's arrival info share, I can retransmit my credentials."

Sherris is almost buzzing with questions. Eleni lays a hand on her arm to calm her. Hernández looks curious but does not seem phased by the implications.

(High Scholar Voha)"Doctor Solis, I can reassure you that I am Prince Harrick's biological mother. nodding to Sherris "I have always treated him as my son. His responses are entirely familial rather than those of a patient. Looking to Mikhel "Thank you for your kind offer. I do not think your training has allowed for you to understand the depths that we have undertaken here to save my son. I do think that if you remain in His Majesties orbit you will have the opportunity to learn more. Perhaps we can teach you over time some new skills. She smiles at Athena "Of course you will be most interested Doctor. Given time and potential growth of trust I might let you see some of our results in detail. For now I can say that we have been working on his recovery for almost two decades. We are fairly certain that his regeneration and growth have peaked. It has been the work of a lifetime to save my son. Once he is on the throne I will feel my work is done."

High Scholar Voha picks up her data pad to lead you out of the room and begin a tour of the building.

Mikhel texts back to the sender of the Scholar's Tower info package: Offer of medical assistance was for general occurrences, not specific recovery cases. I was under the impression that all medical services came from the Scholar's Tower. If not, please forward my offer to that agency. However, I also have experience with Marine/Navy injured personnel in rehabilitation facilities, as a corpsman, doing prosthetic and cybernetic physiotherapy, as well as care of a few catastrophic body regeneration/regrowth patients.

Using that clinical experience, and having been part of treatment regime teams, Mikhel would have an idea of how the Prince was doing recovery-wise. The estimation from the description is that he's not doing well for 20 years of regeneration. Imperial treatment would be max a year, even with nearly full body regrowth/reconstruction. How badly damaged was this Prince? Did they regrow him from a few brain cells?

There was so much to unpack in Voha's words and no polite question that he could ask. He kept his quiet and inclined his head to the scholar to indicate this.

When an opportunity presented itself, Silas subvocalised notes to Vix which included to try to learn what Voha's current relationship was to the King. And for that matter the parentage of Princess Rao, as Silas was certain he was witnessing that age old tale of scheming for the throne. Prince Harrick the heir apparent, nearly lost in combat but returned from the dead. Rao the favoured of the King. He would endeavour to avoid taking sides.

Once you leave the lecture hall you are joined by two Scholars. They speak to the area you are entering, talking in general terms about the experiments and courses that are happening. As you move from one area to another one or both drop off and are replaced with Scholars with specialties for that area. Athena, Eleni, Sherris, and Mikhel are deep engrossed by the tour, finding very competent teachers, new projects, and interesting ideas. With the University being cut off from most outside sharing sources the lines of investigation are somewhat duplicative of other places. It does look to all of them that bringing in new students is a key source of funding for the University. The tour extends for well over three hours.

Does Mikhel see anything for medical scrutiny? Is there anything he might relate to mining in the system, and be able to ask questions about the facility in the asteroid belt?

Mikhel can spot several metallurgical areas of study. It is not clear from this document if that mining facility would be under control of the University or of the Royal Family based on his other investigations.

Nothing while on the actual tour for Asteroid Mining or anything like it?

As interesting and enjoy Athena finds the tour, her mind will not let go of the puzzle of the prince. When they reach what feels may be the end, she asks, "Scholar Voha, does the university hold a place one may get a cup of coffee and contemplate quietly, potentially with a colleague or two?" She looked briefly at her watch, saw the later time, and shrugged. Caffeine was not a great idea but her mind would churn regardless into the night and keep her up. "Privacy and caffeine would welcomed. I could find such in my lab, but with all presented to me today, I cannot guarantee I would leave it anytime soon. The data suggests that'd be interpreted as rude."

Silas watched his comrades throughout and noted Captain Solis' quizzical demeanour. He offered them a collegiate, "Agreed. That's a lot to take in, and caffeine would help." There was an immense subscript to anything anyone might say here regarding the Scholar, the Prince, and the Tower, but for the minute little could be said out loud. "Thank you for inviting me along. I feel... illuminated!" He hoped a little humour might ease the mental load on the crew.

(High Scholar Voha)"Doctor Solis yes we have a lounge area you could use for that and casual conversations with some of the other Scholars. You will have to return on the third for that as most of the facilities here are closed for the break. I will be busy with events tomorrow but on the second I could come visit you on the Pioneer if you would like. "

Well she tried. Athena would point that out when it would inevitably fall to Eleni to make sure she either didn't go to her lab or else to drag her out of it in the morning - likely sleep-deprived as well. Poor Eleni. With a small nod, Athena said, "Thank you for the tour, Scholar Voha. I will check with my schedule regarding the second. You will hear from me later if it does."

{space for replies}

After the tour concludes the Hawk Guard guides your group back to the Royal Docks and the Voyager. You arrive there at almost 15:00.

12:00 - Floating Palace, Throne Room

Meeting with King Oleb XVI and the Provosts of Torpol

The Royal Hawk Guards escort Provost Shala, Provost Falx, Crockett, Admin Aide Dar into the Throne Room on the Floating Palace. There is a crowd of people there, none that Crockett is familiar with. It appears this is one of several people or groups with an audience with the King on the final day of the year.

Meeting Crockett's rumors that he had heard King Oleb XVI is a large, loud, boisterous man. He is energetic in his gestures, always with a large golden goblet of wine at hand. Group after group comes up with requests and or gifts. The King does not seem to have any favorites, treating everyone with a casual noblesse oblige sometimes gently, sometimes more forcefully, reminding them of their duties to the King as he decides how to respond to requests. One that Crockett catches as his group's moment is close is one from the Asim system. Two young men are asking for additional supplies for building a new settlement. King Oleb cautions them that they will get what they requested once they are able to provide for their people and the agreed upon produce that is to come to Drinax. They seem to be trying to explain their difficulties in achieving what the King is requiring but he good naturedly agrees that it is difficult to lead, and everyone must do their share. He does agree to look into if the production facilities at the Floating Palace can assist sooner than later.

When it is time for the Torpol delegation to speak the two Provosts take the center with Crockett on one side and Dar on the other. Provost Shala offers a thanks for the audience and tells the King that they have brought along a half ton of flash frozen seafood from the oceans of Torpol. King Oleb expresses his appreciation with a toast as he looks over the group. His eyes linger on Crockett. Crockett cannot tell if it is because the King recognizes him, or if it is only from the obvious differences in clothing and demeanor from the rest of the delegation.

Provost Falx requests an audience with the engineers and construction teams of the Floating Palace. He is effusive on the effectiveness and magnificence of the technology and wants the chance to speak with them about improvements that could be done with Torpol's Highport. King Oleb looks appreciative of the compliments, but Crockett senses he is not fully happy with the mention of the Highport. The King does agree that there should be some cooperation, and it is a topic for future discussions. Provost Shala takes their time to offer King Oleb an official invitation to be part of the Torpol Hydrolympics coming up in the new few months. He invites King Oleb to bring a team to compete in water polo and other activities. Provost Shala specifically invites a team from Drinax to come early to train in the different gravity conditions, calling Prince Harrick out by name as a potential member of the Drinax team. {Prince Harrick and Princess Rao are not visible in attendance in the audience}

King Oleb gives a loud hearty toast to this idea.

THAT IS A SMASHING IDEA SHALA! I WILL LEAD OUR TEAM FROM DRINAX PERSONALLY AND WOE TO THOSE WHO FALL INTO OUR BRACKET. CHEERS!!! He raises his goblet to Provost Shala and then to the room at large WHO IS WITH ME? WHO WILL UPHOLD THE HONOR OF THE STAR DRAGON AND REMIND THE REACH WHAT WE ARE MADE OF!!

Most of the Nobles attending Court raise their voices to cheer, and a few raise their hands to indicate they are ready to join in this new crusade their King has declared. With a couple more cheers and toasts. King Oleb tells Provost Shala that yes there will be an advance team, the details of which are to be worked out later after the holidays.

[Crockett to Provost ] In hushed voice "Provost Sir might I address the King?"
[Crockett to King] "Good King Oleb, Sir. I am Crockett — formerly with the Imperial Naval Marines and I am with this party by good fortune and as such bring you happiest and fondest greetings for you and Your Kingdom in this new year we are about to begin."
"King Oleb … on this day I for one have nothing to ask of you but perhaps someday to be able to be of use to you as you to continue to seek ways to Make Your Once Glorious Kingdom GREAT AGAIN. Until perhaps tomorrow when I am part of another group that is booked to have audience with you I then beg my leave and thank you for this opportunity to have an initial introduction."

King Oleb gives a toast to Crockett with a speculative nod.

The group moves over to the side as more people are presented to the King. After a short time the Provosts lead the way out and the Royal Hawk Guards escort your group back towards the Royal Docks and the Ship of Unity. Along the way one of the peels off with Crockett to take him to his meeting at the Control Center.

12:00 - First attempt at meeting with Iskavrin and Harison

Drax-Amadith Residence / Office / His Royal Highness Office of Surface Affairs and Affiliations And Taxation And Noblesse Oblige Administration Center for the Restoration Continuation of the Drinax Royal Family and Rightful Empire of the Stars and Sword

Along one of the wide hallways, whose murals have long since been scavenged of precious metals like platinum and lanthanum to help stave off the eventual failure of the Floating Palace gravitic drives. Its probably for the best, that this disgraceful hocking of the cultural heritage of the Drinaxian empire is hidden behind modular pre fab housing. Really wanna know who was important on the Floating Palace? How many pre fabs do you have. Many have only the one. Drax-Amadith Residence, has three.

A bedroom for him and his wife. A dining room, with an Tech World Autochef and office for Iskavrin job. In the Sindilian tradition, the opulence of the title the higher the status. This does come at the expense of practical name plaques.

The office center piece is a desk, made out of real Drinaxian Mahogany. The desk has a baked in holographic TL16 computer. Its only 225 years old. Practically new. Unlike the printer on the desk that sits there like a plantar wart. Unlike the refurbished filing cabinets that hug the walls like gargoyles. There is just enough room along one edge, pass around the desk to go into the dining room. Just enough room for a not an excessively tall or cluttered person to sit across from Iskavrin seat.

After Iskavrin meeting with Lady Hill, he returned back to his family pre fabs. He sees the noon correspondences on his front door, and several calling cards. This means his wife was still out and about. Not unusual.

The lack of wireless networks, or well their lack of reliability has caused a return to physical mail amongst dwellers of the Floating Palace. With pick up three times a day. The Pages, working their way to delivers the messages, even standing in line for one of the few radios that still have pan solar system reach on the Floating Palace.

As Ikavrin enters his office, he takes in the mail. Most of them were for his wife. Ah, this letter from their son, was not solely for her. Iskavrin opened it. Ah, good, he reached Tobia okay. Settled into his house, and is exciting for his first semester classes. Iskavrin smiles as he absently minded nestle where the flawless ten karat emeralds that used to be on his outer coat.

He then positions his hands over where the holographic keyboard rests for him, his computer snaps to attention. It restores his last sessions, and two dozen spreadsheets pop up. Iskavrin frowns, as he saves and closes them. Pulls up a terminal menu to SSH into the Scholar Tower database.

<img src="https://imgur.com/hzR4pRq" alt="Shcholar Tower Terminal Database" />

Imperial Ordinance on Foreign Service Conduct and Integration (IOFSCI)

Enacted By: Imperial Edict Talik-4785 Purpose: To ensure foreign high-ranking service members or veterans visiting Imperial territories conduct themselves with respect for local customs, maintain diplomatic decorum, and properly integrate into the societal framework.

Section 1: Applicability This ordinance applies to:

Foreign High-Ranking Active Service Members: Officers holding a rank equivalent to Captain or higher within their home polity or organization. Foreign High-Ranking Veterans: Retired officers of equivalent rank, or individuals who have been recognized with notable honors by their home polity. Section 2: Requirements Upon Arrival Mandatory Registration and Appointment:

Within 7 local days of arrival on an Imperial System, all applicable individuals must schedule an appointment with the Office of Foreign Dignitary Affairs (OFDA) to: Confirm their housing arrangements meet local standards of security and decorum. Receive an orientation on Imperial customs, laws, and protocols. This meeting ensures the visitor is prepared for appropriate interaction with Imperial citizens, businesspersons, and nobility. Introduction to Planetary Nobility or Officials:

Foreign service members or veterans must formally present their credentials during an official introduction session with designated planetary officials or nobility before engaging in public, private, or commercial activities. The session serves to verify identity, convey respect for Imperial traditions, and establish diplomatic goodwill. Section 3: Restrictions on Activity Prohibition of Pre-Approval Actions:

Visitors are prohibited from engaging in the following activities until compliance with Section 2 is confirmed: Public business negotiations or deals. Political activities, including speeches, lobbying, or advocacy. Participation in formal social or cultural events hosted by nobility. Exemption for Diplomatic Missions:

Official government representatives with verified diplomatic credentials may receive temporary exemptions, granted by the planetary governor or Imperial liaison. Section 4: Enforcement and Penalties Non-Compliance Consequences:

First Offense: Formal reprimand and notification sent to the visitor's home government or military command. Subsequent Offenses: Fines up to 20,000 Credits. Temporary revocation of trade, movement, or diplomatic privileges. In severe cases, deportation may be considered. Enforcement is carried out by the OFDA and local authorities, with support from the Imperial Ministry of Diplomacy when needed.

Section 5: Purpose and Rationale This ordinance ensures foreign high-ranking service members and veterans visiting Imperial territories maintain decorum and respect for local traditions. By fostering goodwill and promoting mutual understanding, the law strengthens relationships between the Imperium and other interstellar states while safeguarding Imperial societal norms.

Iskavrin reads through it, and then pulls up several other documents. Spends an hour reading, skimming. He leans back into his chair, checks the time. Night correspondences will be picked up soon. With that, he pulls out some watermarked parchment, starts to write:

"In compliance with IOFSCI, you are beckon to meet with Sir Drax-Amadith for accommodation of the visit, and introduction of the court for the mutual betterment of his and their Station, his and their Family, and his and their Sovereignties." Along with the letter, is Iskravan signature, in elaborate calligraphy in variegated colors. Places it into an envelope, which he seals with hot wax and presses his signet into it, leaving a clean impression. Then takes out a stamp, marks as it as urgent and persistent. Telling the Pages to attempt to deliver until done.

14:50 - Meeting in the Control Center with Baroness Hault-Miller and Crockett

"So Baroness Hault-Miller...Thank you so much for seeing me....I should explain that while I am really only a retired Naval Marine with the Imperial Navy most recently, I am travelling with a group who are seeking new trade opportunities and have asked for this meeting with you as I hear you are knowledgeable about possible opportunities here on Drinax.It is a new year for all and with it we anticipate travelling a bit throughout this region and wondering what type of goods might be of value here to those of you who live on the Floating Palace and what things you might have of trade value elsewhere?"

(Baroness Hault-Miller)"Sir Crockett. It is good to see you being proactive and coming to see me before attempting any new mass trading attempts. Certainly if you find a cargo that you feel the Kingdom will be interested in you should bring it to our attention. King Oleb XVI, long may he reign, has a good mind as you saw during your time at the Court. He is good hearted and wants what is best for his people. It can be challenging for others to see what is appropriate as trade opportunities. In the last six months I have turned away several disappointed ambitious independent traders who brought the wrong type of cargo to Drinax. The Baldo earlier this year tried with a cargo full of 'the latest in fashion and furnishing from the Gazulin subsector. He left with his hold still full, the only credits changing hands for fuel.

She picks up a data pad and starts moving about the room again. "If you find something that you think will be of interest to the Kingdom do message me or Ranchando and we will advise on the suitability. You have met Ranchando at the Bazaar?

"Thank you Baroness for this helpful direction. I have been puzzled about the true role of Ranchando, but since you have made reference to him, it appears he is held in good regard by the palace and your King. I was hoping though in addition, you might be able to name just 3 or 4 types of product that could be of use here??"

(Baroness Hault-Miller)"Sir Crockett. Ranchando is held in high regard by The King, long may he reign, and by the Princess, his Heir. That is all that you as an outsider to our Court needs to know. For the choice of products to find, Ranchando would be the person who could help you with that. He got his start here on the Floating Palace with bringing fruit, that Countess Tollar and the Princess happened to be fond of. I do not know how he knew that. I suggest you find inspiration as best you can, perhaps he can give you guidance on that. I bid you good day, and Happy New Year.

15:00 - Floating Palace, Royal Docks

Once seated in the Voyager, Athena wastes no time quelling, or perhaps igniting, her thoughts. She puts her data pad away and take out one of her most prized possessions: a pen and waterproof notepad. An old, but trusty relic that never failed you in the field, and stored in the right place, guaranteed only a single person had access. Technology surrounded them, but that didn't mean she trusted it fully. In it, she writes her initial thoughts and tendrils of potential research she could follow.

"Cloning," wrote Athena in a tight, messy scrawl. "Never perfected to accurately clone an individual. Sophont clones develop seperate personalities and would not retain memories. May impair political ambition if cloning technique is in-vivo. Unlikely but not impossible."

On the next paragraph, she continued to write, "Cell growth. Plenty on research for sophonts. Easy access for Drinax. Medical regrowth relies on cells to retain memory of lost limbs with guidance of outlying cells. Implications from Voha to Dromah indicate there were no cells for medical regrowth. Lab growth then? A blank slate, but focused on the mind not the body. Or perhaps spliced incorrectly. Contaminated cell line? Did Voha try to establish one using her own or the king to retain royal heritage? Very possible."

Continuing to write to get her initial thoughts out, Athena wrote in a new paragraph, "DNA extraction. If body does not exist, DNA extraction necessary. Was DNA damaged? Plenty of sophont research out there to find a place to start. Possible, but less likely based on reactions."

For the last paragraph, before she decided thinking matter more than writing, she wrote in small, messier writing, "Were enhancements added? Or was an opportunity lost in the focus on bringing him back? If body is still repairing, could some be added to the baseline cell growth DNA? Too political, save thoughts for later." After underlining the last sentence, a note to herself, she shut her notebook, tapping the cover as her mind whirrled with the possibilites, especially knowing what she had in her lab.

Mikhel would have liked to do a bit more Recce by Walking Around, but the tour went over lunch with no food, and it has gotten late in the afternoon. Rather than try to be civil while hungry, Mikhel will head back to the Pioneer. Things to think about, and appointments to line up. Mikhel will contact Crockett later to see if he had any luck, with the Baroness. Mikhel would have gone to see Crockett, and listen in at the 15:00 hr meeting, but Mikhel would be late and inappropriately dressed. Ping Crockett later, and see about an O Grp. A word or two with the Captain about what we didn't find out? Nah. She's got her head in her ... Whoa! Old School! A notepad? Almost like a low tech field message pad. Hmmm... Should check out finding them around. Anyway, a 'nil' report can wait.

Seeing Dromah glance over at her notebook brought another thought to Athena. The others may not be interested in the science but...

"Dromah," prompted Athena, still in a thoughtful manner. "Have you ever provided specific care to a highly political individual before as part of DWB? I would imagine it is much easier to convince others you are apolitical when provided for many, but I am curious how you would convince them your motives for the Prince are purely as part of the DWB mission given he isn't the usual recepient for what little I am aware of it." Athena motioned with her hand. "The downtrodden, war-torn nations, yes? Not the son and potential ruler of a region."

"While he may have returned, he is still at a disadvantage. A handsome, physically fit individual has a much easier time gaining a throne than one who is not. That human fallacy has never evolved out of us." Athena gave a small displeased sigh and tapped her notebook again, briefly. "Scholar Voha cannot appreciate what she has done, what potential scientific marvel she has achieved, unless her political ambitions are also met. That is unfortunate. Science, and I'm certain medicine and other studies, cannot be appreciated on their own without political involvement." It was also clear to Athena that Voha would likely take full advantge of Athena's curosity to achieve it - hence why she wanted to wait until the meeting with the king before deciding if she'd allow her on the Pioneer.

"I suppose," said Athena, now thinking out loud, allowing commentary from any listening, "The question is how Princess Rao will recieve us. Will we be a threat? Or are we a potential advantage for her as well?"

The question did not hang in the air long before, mind ever moving, Athena glanced over at Hernández with a small, excited smile. "Although, Harold, I do see potential for collaboration on some cellular agriculture again. This seems like a prime place to find a good funding source. Perhaps we can finally tackle your idea of, what was it, making it a gastronomic delight?"

"As is the way with all political environments, players will wait and watch until they're sure they have some advantage before acting. One might do the same." He arched an eyebrow and met the eyes of each of the crew. "If one never takes a side, one never makes an enemy!" Silas knew he was a relative newcomer and still finding his place among the crew here but was keen to share his thoughts about the exciting court here playing out in plain sight. "The Drinaxians seem curious about us... and whatever the King's plan is! Once their cards are on the table one might choose sides, although either potentate becomes an enemy. A savvy courtier, and the Prince and Princess would need to be in this tense, close environment, would look for allies to gain advantage where possible... and only act out against another player when they had a sure advantage in the game... and a means to profit or advance from any conflict." The spacer looked to the others for their opinions.

Silas has Diplomacy 1 so although no expert, he has a sound understanding of political environments.

Athena gives a light snort, and small smile to Silas, saying, "It is not hard to make enemies even if you do not take sides."

"Doctor, I am too new with my DWB credentials to have ever done individual patient care of anyone, of any rank. I have dealt with a few high ranking navy types, who had very high noble backgrounds, all of which went to private care, once out of the operational theatres. Those individuals completed their convalecence out of Navy/Marines hands and oversight. I have done rehabilitation on many others, of all ranks, but divorced of politics. Can I offer something to Prince Harrick? Very possibly. Is he strong enough to take on Marine rehabilitation? That is all on his desire to succeed.
I have no idea how any of the court will take the 'interference' of an unknown outsider. Despite my usual desire to ridicule nobles and high executives, I'm drawn to the thought of a challenge. There are many pitfalls and possible boobytraps in this situation. I can foresee Scholar Voha being particularly adverse to subjecting her son to the misguided ministrations of an unqualified, meddling wanna-be doctor.
If we team up, and cover our respective specialties, I could slip in under the umbrella of your reputation and Scholar Voha's admiration of you. Can I appeal to Prince Harrick to give me a try? I think I can, and more to the point, I think I want to. I would approach Prince Harrick as a fellow soldier, wanting to see a fellow combatant succeed in his mission. Then, sound out who and what he is, and his goals. If he is heading in a direction to which I can agree, he will get my full support and effort. What do you want to do? Can we, you and I, work this as a team?"

Mikhel starts the tactical analysis of the situation. Does the Prince do any outside PT? If he is out for a run sometime, Mikhel could 'stumble across' the Prince and 'join' him. Not getting pushed away by his entourage would be tricky. Then, there is the 'Race' tomorrow? What was that? Would the Prince participate? Was there a way to shadow him, and assess him. If Mikhel could shadow him, with his gear on his back, field-style, Mikhel would be right on hand for any problems that might crop up. Mikhel couldn't think that the individual he saw this afternoon doing anything but a symbolic run, and nothing a fit Marine couldn't keep up with, even with a field kit. And Mikhel needed to get out and run, anyway. Start working on the brother-in-arms approach right away. There were going to be suspicions and detractors. Play this straight, no crap, and let sincerity do its thing.

There has been mention of a Royal Race, but Mikhel hasn't been present for them, IIRC. Are there advertisements? Was there a schedule of events in the Welcome Package to the Pioneer on entering the system, or any info provided to the Pioneer on the upcoming Festivities? Does Mikhel have that info, and can he act on it? Is there a Support Plan or OPI that can be contacted to whom 'Volunteer' services could be offered? The group can infer that there are activities happening, to this point you do not have any details or information except your special meeting with the King at Noon. Once you meet up with Sultana and Harison back on the Pioneer for the evening they can tell you about their experiences.

In the interests of moving the story forward I am planning on simply writing a few paragraphs about the morning before the meeting and starting interactions with everyone at Noon meeting. There will be lots of opportunities to

With a nod towards Mikhel, she replied, "That is certainly the path that interests me most, but I have learned the need to be more discriminate in my pursuit of knowledge. But our pilot has a point. The Drinaxians are already playing their cards. We would not have met the Prince otherwise. And we could simply play along, feel our way, and change course later if we need."

"We will see how the meeting with the king goes. If it feels appropriate, I will send an invitation to High Scholar Voha after to visit the Pioneer on the second, and perhaps, extend that to the Prince."

"Roger that, Doctor! I'll still do the run, and any assessment I can from a distance. If the Prince approaches me, I'll be friendly, but non-commital. I haven't heard anything yet about sides, except Lord Wrax's warm welcome. We can hope that Princess Rao gives us some impression about how she thinks this plan will play out."

To Lt. Sultana
I hope you’re joking!
If not but I still hope it’s a bad joke what type of race is it nice run around a garden? Or a free for all no rules first to cross a line?
Also I have no running shorts so the people will be so disappointed not see my great legs.

To Adm. Dawn
Would I joke about something like this, Old Friend? Don't worry, in light of your advanced age, I'm sure they'll make you some allowances. In all honesty, however, I don't realistically intend to be one of the front contenders either. I signed us both up as a participation thing, to give us a bit more recognition with the locals who care about such things. If the King cares about it, many of the nobility will as well.

Plus it was funny.

Sultana out.

Iskavrin's messenger returns to the Drax-Amadith Residence at 14:00 without an answer from Admiral Harison. She reports that there is no one at the Voyager. She waited for 2 hours but no one answered any communication requests to the bridge.

15:00 - Second attempt at meeting with Iskavrin and Harison

This is the Lad Ship Pioneer answering your call who is speaking and what is your business.

The radio operator for the Pioneer, would hear a vinyl recorded like quality being slowed and reversed, changing from several langauges until it starts to speak back to the radio operator in Anglic. "Floating Palace Courier 2121-93501. Enclosed Envlope for Harison, Dawn. Admiral. Marked, Urgent. Sender is His Royal Highness Office of Surface Affairs and Affiliations And Taxation And Noblesse Oblige Administration Center for the Restoration Continuation of the Drinax Royal Family and Rightful Empire of the Stars and Sword, Sir Drax-Amadith."

This is Harison speaking may I ask what this envlope is in relation too? Also can it be left with one of the guards till I am port side tomorrow?

"The parcel is in regards with compliance of Imperial Edict Talik-4785, IOFSCI.Then there a pause for a moment. "The parcel is marked, Urgent."

Harison thinks to himself can’t be that urgent if it’s in an envelope sent via a robot.

You can get who ever sent this to call me on my private coms and I’ll decide how urgent it is cause I don’t remember having any business on this plant I would call urgent. Or I can pick it up tomorrow good day.

There is a noticeable pause before a response. "Floating Palace Courier 2121-93501 is private communications. Thank you testing my loyalty and due diligence in my service to King..." There is a pause again. Oleb. Of the 809,786 messages, missive, and packages, only 32 have been lost. None have been open by this Courier, nor has this Courier ever knowingly allowed their charged to be taken or read except by the designated recipient. This is for Harison, Dawn. Admiral. Marked, Urgent." And with that the courier found himself hanged up on. They look over the line for the interstellar ranged radio. They then step aside. Look at the envelope. Its marked Urgent. Its also marked persistent. With that, Floating Palace Courier walks to the back of the queue. They wait their turn for the radio, and will hail the Pioneer ad infinitum until the message is delivered.

Harison contacted coms control on the Floating Palace saying some one named Sir Drax-Amadith from the department Administration Center for the Restoration Continuation or at least that bit was some were in the name. They sent on the contact information and Harison went about sending a message.

To Sir Drax-Amadith
From Harison Dawn on the Pioneer.
I believe you’re trying to contact me with an urgent letter. What’s the nature of the letter and why is it urgent. If this is to do with trying to trade for our cargo please don’t waste my time it’s for sale only. You can contact me on my personal coms.
Thank you

"Huh, curious. I will need to make sure the the courier gets sent down to maintenance, if it couldnt follow that direction. Its in regard to Imperial Edict Talik-4785, to comply with an abbreviation soup. Its a law. It has a time limit. Laws that have time limits are urgent. Though I guess as a Third Imperial Admiral, they dont often have to follow laws they dont want to. I dont know when you arrived in system, but it starts when you arrived in system. It would be appreciative, if you didnt disregard ours. Please meet me at my office, as soon as you can." And in the comms is a image of the floating palace, mark up of the various makeship homes and offices that are stuffed in the hallways.

To Sir Drax-Amadith
From Harison Dawn on the Pioneer.
I am sure you are mistaken the Pioneer and her crew was invited here by you king. I am sure his intent was for us to be braking laws.
But as a personal favour to you, I will come down in-person to you so you can sort this out. See you soon.

After sending the last communication Harison taught to himself, that boredom of being on the ship with not much to do must be getting to him more than he knew to agree to the meeting. It should be entertaining at least he hoped it would be.
He prepared the shuttle for the trip and cleared it with control on the palace. When he landed at the dock he asked the HawkGuard that greeted him if he could escorting to the offices of Sir Drax-Amadith. When he arrived he gave a knock on the door.

Iskavrin:As Harison is escorted by one of the Hawkmen, the hallway where Iskvrin calls home, has a number of these have sized modular container homes, stuck to the side of the walls, like someone just overwhelmed in the Sims, and didnt know where to put anything. The halllway, extended up six meters into a graceful arch. The walls have 3 stories of these half modules, stacked on top of each other. There are a few lader with wheels at their base, attached to rails to the story they service, with a pulley system to push and pull them to the door thats needed.

Iskvrin, is on the ground floor. With 3 modules. Its not much, but its larger then few other folks and most convient to get into and out. Status. What status can be still be had on the Floating Palace.

As Harison knocks on the Iskavrin home, the texture was made to look like wood, but its obviously plastic of some kind, and hollow. Without much hesitation, the door opens. Iskavrin stands firm and tall, as tall as someone thats bit over meter half. Hes on the thin side, like a soup thats been made to stretch out for too many meals. He is wearing obviously old clothing, that was made out of splendiferous materiels. It has intricate patterns of dragons and swords. Its plain to tell these used to be accented with precious materiels and stones but they've been removed. Lost or stolen or sold?

The Hawkman warrior does a salute to Iskavrin. He extends his pointer and middle finger as his hand makes a loose fist. Then touches his forehead over his nose, then does a bow and extends his arms out and his fingers point below Iskavrin waist. Ikavrin smiles, then a slight nod, and the Hawkman warrior relaxes and returns to standing.

"Master Chief!" Iskavrin says jubilant with some surprise. "Good to see you." The hawkmen keeps a professional cool, and replies to Iskvrin. "Commander." Iskavrin shakes his head. "Its Sir now. The Hawkmen replies, "It was Sir before too." He lets out a small chuckle. "Oh, shoot. I still have your wife casserole dish. Can you carry it back now?" The Hawkmen gives a thought, "Yea. I can drop it off on my way back to my post." Iskavrin then snaps his finger, "One more thing. I am schedule to go back down to the surface, to Alto Veria arecology. Can I tag you to be the bodyguard? We can catch the vista, you love." The Hawkmen shakes his head. "No, I'm due to do a rotation at Asim and relieve the Hawkmen there." Iskvrin nods in understanding. He then straightens up, looks the Hawkmen in the eyes, and his voice shifts to familiar officer tenor. "Hawkemn Jonathson, Master Chief, I request that you stand guard of my offices while I conduct important, private business." The Hawkman, does a similar salute, though this time without the bow but the arm and fingers still point below Iskavrin waist. Then he responds, "I shall stand guard, until other duties press me to act elsewhere." And with that he then stands beside the door, with his back against the wall.

Iskavrin then clasps his hands together, then he extends his pointer and index finger, touches his forehard above his nose, and extends his arm and points above Harison waist. "I welcome you to my house, and office. Please come in, and be seated. "

As you look at the man in the door he is not physically big or imposing but as he walks in you can tell their is a certain grace to his movement. "Thank you Mr Drax-Amadith for welcoming me into your home hopefully we can get this sorted quickly as I am sure you are a very busy man." As he sits in the chair you indicated to you would say he looks in his early 50s in good shape. His wearing common work closes nothing out of the ordinary. 

 (Iskavrin) Iskavrin sidesteps and squeezes past his desk and the filing cabinets, sits in his chair. The door to his office closes. He gestures over the desk, as the holographic display and keyboard come back to life. He can be seen reading something, as his eye dart to and throw.  "Alright, time for legal spellwork, so I am not technically a fraud, and this is about what it was stated to be about."  hHe clears his throat. "Imperial Ordinance on Foreign Service Conduct and Integration, as decreed by Imperial Edict Talik-4785. You are now in the sovereignty of the Drinax Empire. True inheritor of the sword and stars, and Inheritor of the Sindilin Empire. Our King Oleb, welcomes you to be here, in so that you understanding that your Rank, only commands respect, appropriate accommodation but not authority. Welcome good tiding and peace and trade among our houses and yours. We shall see you are taken care of as a guest that your rank has earned from service. You are welcome to conduct diplomacy, commerce and trade, lobby for interests, but cannot conduct or support espionage. If you were to break any laws of our land, then our laws will be enforced upon you."  As Iskavrin is reading this, its not terribly rehearsed or said with conviction. "And then extend out your hand..." He rolls his eyes at himself, leans forward and extends out his hand, opened. "By accepting this hand in the manner give, in open transparency, and in respect and betterment between our sovereigns, sovereignties, houses and our selves.

Harison reaches over to shake hands a little look of confusion crosses his face but he rolls with it. As he shakes hands he asks "You do know I am no longer an Admiral or in the employment of the navy I hope that does not changes this out come? If not is there any thing else or am I free to go."

(Iskavrin) "The edict applies to active service members and those that are retired. And there lots to be discussed because you're here. There no reason for you to be here, so you're a curiosity and mystery and a probable danger. You said King Oleb invited you. Thats probably real. He sends dozen invitation every year, and most politely dont receive it. We're not even part of the Third Imperium and Heriate trade route. Most caravans skip right over us. Its harder to be less important. Did you not have obligation to family after you were retired?" He asks pointly.

"The devil is in the details I never said I was invited just that the pioneer and her crew were so by extension me as a member of the crew. As to my reason for being here the captain of the ship said set a course for Drinax one week later out we pop and here we are. Look I know you’re looking out for your home but as you have stated, it’s not on any trade routes, it has no natural resources, no military, no navy, it doesn’t even trade in credits there is nothing this planet has to offer that you need to be worried about me being here as the worst spy in the galaxy using my real name as I go about my business. What I be worried about is all the cats 2 parsecs over. As for my family I am sure that has nothing to do with security."

(Iskavrin) "I didnt bring up security. And you dont know want to talk about your family. Which is in my experiences, odd with anyone with a Noble heritage. I know my linage going back 800 years. Who you know, is who you are. So you either arent one, or arent welcomed by them. And either being true, still became an Admiral. Thats impressive. And you're crewing on a type-l. No job offers from General Products or Ling-Standard Products?"

Harison gives a small laugh"I am no noble I come from an over populated industrial world we were so poor we couldn’t afford the second r in Harrison. As for my lineage and family it was just me and my mother she got me into military college from all her hard work she then died early into my career and my father died when I was very young. The navy does not lend its self to having a family. And thank you for saying my rise to Admiral is impressive you’re too kind."

(Iskavrin) "Our navy only has one admiral. Which is fine, and prudent. Our navy is father small. It however, does limit what a career in the navy is. How many hours of combat do you? I only have four myself, most of those gained when I was in an officer exchange program with the 3rd Imperium."

"Any time in combat that you come away from is commendable sir. I have no idea how much time I have racked up but I would say my space combat far out weighs an in person combat. Now is this going somewhere it’s feels like an informal interrogation or are we filling out my dating profile? In which case I like long walks on the beach at sunset."

(Iskavrin) "There no reason for you to come here. That doesnt mean, there isnt a reason why you're wanted here. So was there an offer of a fief on Asim or office and title here on the Floating Palace?"

"Sorry an offer to me?"

(Iskavrin) "Yes. And probably a marriage, offer as well. That being half the point of the offer." Iskavrin gestures around him. "This is it. The planet below was glassed, irritated, biological and chemical agents well. Anyone that didnt make here, died in orbit, and anyone that wasnt sufficiently underground on the surface is dead too. Sufficient population to prevent genetic doom, is around ten to twenty thousands. The Vesprex, have those numbers. We dont." Chuckles to himself. "Oh gosh, ten thousand on the floating palace. There isnt room as it is for the two gross or so up here already."

"I am not sure how many times I can say it or repeat it for you to understand I am only here cause of the ship I am working on at the moment was coming here. I have had no previous contact with any one from Dranix. Now can you accept this fact and move on?"

(Isavrin) "The King would, and has done so previously. Hence the danger. All the spots are taken here. For you to be here, someone has to go. Not me obviously. This discussion provides me ample opportunity to protect myself. And that arrangement is a surprise to you, so thats a no. That did not happen. Alright." leans back into his chair. "What are you views on commerce raiding?"

Harison shifts in the seats and leans forward you get the impression naval tactics is something of an interest of his. "Commerce raiding it’s an effect tactic if you have good intel on supply lines. Cutting off an enemy’s supples can have very negative effects on your enemy. I find soldiers lose a lot of there will to fight when they have empty stomachs for a long time or make very bad decisions. Then ships with no missiles or ammunition are not as effective.Why do you ask?"

(Iskavrin) He smiles at Harrison response. "Effective tactics, good way to sum up civilian causalities." He hears Harrison question and ignores it for a moment. "And you introduced yourself as part of the crew of the Pioneer, not the captain. So its good to know that an Admiral is willing to take orders, instead of giving them." he does a gesture and the holographic computer ceases to be. "I have not been told any information or plans, which would make these questions pertinent, or valuable to have had answered. Any questions about me or anything else in general? This privacy isnt easy to come by."

"Admirals always have to follow orders there not laws on to them selfs. You say have not been told any information or plans about what? From who? What’s this all about? It’s like your talking about some thing you think I should know but I have no idea what? As for questions about you I have only just met you and probably won’t see you again after this so I don’t really have any questions about you."

(white% Iskavrin smiles. "Well, really. Wanna put some money down on that? We can open a escrow account, 20k. 10 from me, 10 from you. Payout in a year to you if we never see each other again. And this is very expensive trip for a lot of nothing and no interest. At least 70k in expenses to get here and leave. Type-L has no cargo space, and we dont have any passengers to fill the 15," He has an pitch tone, noting its a question if its accurate. "Staterooms."

"Well this has been some waste of time have a nice day we are done here."Harison gets up out of the chair and heads to the door.

(Iskavrin) Iskavrin goes into hi dinning room/kitchenet and gets the casserole dish. He steps outside and hands them to the Hawk-warrior. They have it more small talk before he leaves and Iskavrin than returns inside, writes a letter to Lady Hill. Summarizing the meeting. End with the phrase, "work with the tools you have, not the tools you want. "

======= Second attempt an opening pose between Iskavrin and Admiral Dawn =======

Coordinating Messages after a day of meetings
1104-365 17:00 - Pioneer Bridge

To M. J. Crockett, Torpol Vessel 'Ship of Unity', from M. M. Dromah, PSV Pioneer
O Grp proposed. Looking for Results from your meeting(s). Verbal at your earliest convenience?

18:00 - Meeting between Lady Hil and Silas

A Royal Hawk Guard guides Silas from the Royal Docks through the Floating Palace and to the Royal Apartments.

Silas arrives at the Royal Apartments precisely at 16:55 to be ready when her butler opens the door at exactly 17:00.

(Butler, Lord Aramith Halginor II)"Welcome Senior Scout Silas Lane of the Imperial Scout Service, Lady Hil will see you now in the sitting room. He leads Silas down a short hall and into a sitting room draped in red, dripping in gold, with large velvet seats, tables with trinkets and pieces that are from antiquity scattered about. Seated in a large comfortable chair with a cup of tea in one hand is an older woman, human, grey hair, slight wrinkles, and a sharp sparkle in her eye.

(Butler)"Lady Hil, Senior Scout Silas Lane of the Imperial Scout Service is here to request an audience. He bows.

(Lady Hil)"Such a pleasure Silas, I will call you Silas..." She offered her hand to him.

(Lady Hil)"Tell me Silas, what is your favorite ice cream?"

"Thank you for entertaining me tonight, My Lady. I have greatly enjoyed the Floating Palace and the company of its fair people." Silas' golden eyes returned the sparkle. "Ah... icecream..." The tall spacer sighed and took on a mock serious tone, "Flavours are not a matter to be taken lightly! I have spent my life travelling to interesting and unusual worlds, and have sampled fare both rare and sumptuous and ...ahem... I have developed expensive tastes." He smiled broadly. "My favourite icecream is flavoured with the slightly savoury dustspice. Have you tried it? It induces a mild euphoria, more so than ordinary icecream" he chuckled. "Did you know, the euphoria that Aslan experience from the spice is said to be much more pronounced?"

(Lady Hil)"That is an ambitious choice. As is anything from Aslan culture here on Drinax. I will take your suggestion into consideration for future entertainment.

(Butler)"Your tea and liquour Lady Hil. There are also savory and sweet pastry bites. He leaves the tray on the side table between Silas and Lady Hil then moves to a rear corner of the room.

(Lady Hil)"Silas, I am aware you are traveling with an eclectic group that will be meeting with the King tomorrow. I have read the report that you recently lost a scout ship that was assigned to you at the hands of Oghma raiders. Indulge me. What are your opinions on such raiders? How would you like to react to them?"

"Hmm... you read the report. A regrettable episode." Silas frowned. "My opinion on the raiders? I imagine I'd share the general sentiment..." he waved a hand to demonstrate 'everyone hereabouts' "...the raiders are uneducated heathens and should be discouraged from such activities, forcibly. But this is no topic for genteel conversation." The momentary spat of irritability was dismissed along with the raiders."Tell me more of Drinax and your life here beyond the frontier. Do you ever yearn for worlds beyond? Are you content with the luxury of court life?" He was genuinely interested in everything along with the lives and ambitions of the Drinaxians.

(Lady Hil)"Silas, I am curious about your reaction to these raiders. Genteel conversations are often just a cloak for more pointed barbs and I prefer to have my conversations open so others understand what I am saying directly. I am interested in your response to these raiders. If you have a chance to discourage them from future activities would you do that rather than file report after report? Are you someone who can adapt from hunting a wild dog to bringing that dog under your own control?"

Lady Hil nibbles on a small snack as Silas thinks. Then just as he is about to speak....

(Lady Hil)"You asked about if I am content here on the Floating Palace. I am not. Anyone who is content is not striving for more. What I want is not more for myself. The King and I have had our time. What I want is for my daughter to have her time. I want to do what my great grandmother did not accomplish. I want to see my daughter secure her place as our King's heir and then be the first Queen of Drinax. To do that she will need someone to help control the wild dogs. The King understands this."

Lady Hil smiles at Silas, sipping a cordial as he finishes his snack

Now we arrive at our destination. The Palace veritably roils with intrigue and motivations, thought the Astrogator. "My Lady Hil! Make no mistake, I am an eager protagonist. Let me explain, for I have spoken none of my own ambition." Silas paused to order his thoughts. "If there were means at my disposal, rather than recourse to report the theft to the authorities, I might lead a mission to retrieve the ship from the Oghmans. As a means to further my own ambition of owning the freedom to the stars. Exploration and travel is my love and motivation for I am curious about every system and sophont. I want to know much..." Silas paused to wet his lips.

"This ambition of mine has and will be beset by powers large... and small, like the Oghmans. Properly resourced and as part of a motivated team, I would indeed bring the wild dogs to heel. For the betterment of the Reach and Kingdom. Where our ambitions coincide is the crux of our conversation. My current charter puts me aboard the Pioneer, which isn't designed for activities of what you alude to. So I will be a patient witness until I have an opportunity. I might more fully share your goals if I were resourced and outfitted."

(Lady Hil)"You have my ear Silas. I will arrange a meeting with my daughter for you tomorrow. When you meet with the Princess you will understand why I want someone outside of the Palace looking after her interests. I would not keep you here on the Palace but I expect regular reports on progress you make towards the goals she sets you towards. I look forward to our conversations in the future.

(Butler)"This way Senior Scout"

Silas considered the Lady's words as he returned towards the docks. You have my ear. I will arrange a meeting with my daughter… the Lady had said. The wicked tangle of the Drinax nobles.

Regular reports… the goals she sets you towards… Lady Hil wished that I look after the interests of her daughter, Princess Rao. Was the unspoken motive, "at the expense of Prince Harrick," the other potentate for the Dragon Throne?

It all seemed furtive and clandestine. But then was that what was being proposed? What was the King meeting with Captain Solis and the others about? Some great important scheme had begun and Silas was being drawn in as surely as a stricken ship toward a collapsed star.

It was a dangerous game, and Silas considered whether it was wise to get involved. Although he was already an accomplice. He had already lost his ship. He was landlocked (was the proper term gravlocked?) on Drinax until he took action, got himself aboard a ship, and turned his prospects around. Here he was consorting with a noble. Wasn’t that an improvement in his prospects? Hadn’t he come here looking for travel and adventure as an end to a relatively droll and lonely career with the IISS? He steeled himself. Decision and action was what was required. And a good fast ship. Something with sleek lines…