1105-006? -- 1105-007 -- 1105-008

• System - Emerge from Jump Space at Marduk
• Message Center - Anchor link to section of Message Center
• Ship's Log - Anchor links to Personal Logs & Library Entries
• In Character discussions - Anchor links to discussions on this page
• Category Tags - Cal, Amada, Ashe, Jeet, Kalidaren, Free & Clear

1105-007 - 16:30 - The Free & Clear

To: Captain
From:Jeet
FYI: Med scans of Aslan during meeting will allow 50-70% ID of future encountered Aslan as family to the Lord on Marduk Station. If the Aslan encountered have clan symbols, very likely we can ID with good reliability.

Jeet, thanks, but I'm not planning to get involved with his clan. We've got our charter, and I'm not jeopardizing it without a much better reason.
We'll be ready to jump in just over 3 1/2 hours. Do you want me to monitor the jump drive with you again?

(space for potential radio communications, other final data will come out of the computers during jump)

"Wouldn't hurt, Captain. By the time we finish this trip, I should be quite familiar with the drives, and any eccentricities."

Jeet scans the local net, and attempts to download medical files for Aslan. There hadn't been need in the past to have this on file, but that was an oversight. There could be need in the near future.

[SKILL] Sed's Astrogation check for Jump to Thebus (2D+5) (vs Difficulty 4) 1 + 3 + 5 = 9 [ +5 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] 1D x 10 minutes = 30 minutes

1105-007 - 18:00 - The Free & Clear

To: Cal Cooper

From:Amada Cerabu

Re: Mission Briefing

Txt: Ready crew for mission briefing tomorrow morning, 1105-008 - 10:00. Cargo Hold.

1105-007 - 18:01 - The Free & Clear

To: Jeet Pringtip

From:Amada Cerabu

Re: Mission Briefing

Txt: Prepare bots with Thebus presentation for mission briefing tomorrow morning, 1105-008 - 10:00. Cargo Hold.

1105-007 - 18:30 - The Free & Clear

Attention, all hands. We have successfully entered jump. Standard transit duties until we break out in Trojan Reach 2019.

Our charter patron has asked us all to attend a mission briefing tomorrow morning at 10:00 in the cargo area. Don't be late.

to Ashe: Yes, Princess, you too.

To Cal:

10:00. Understood.

Jeet checks the files, and looks over the maps. If there is to be a walk-through, some local color should be there. Research says that Thebun Lions are more wary of Humans than likely to treat them as food. However, the crew should see what they look like. He has acquired a few small clips of them, and puts together an encounter. It should open a few eyes. These lions are big! 600 kgs, so almost the size of most large meat source animals. Only these things have claws, teeth and attitude. Because they have Heightened Senses, they are more likely to detect us, before we detect them. Make the encounter at a distance. Because these things are so large, even a distant encounter might seem close. I'll put the sequence in as random, so even I won't know when it is coming.

The Bots have Recon and Environmental Sensors, as well as Advanced PRIS and Auditory sensors. So, nothing with a heartbeat or body heat will likely surprise them. They are calibrated to detect Human-sized creatures in urban and ship environments, but should be able to adapt to wilderness. Anomalies are still anomalies, and Thebun Lions will be more than big enough to show up on Recon scans.

1105-007 - 20:10 - The Free & Clear reaches the jump point

Jeet: [SKILL] Engineer (2D+2) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+2 = 8] [+4 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] 20 Minutes. Firing Jump drive.
Plus the Effect of the Astrogation check? Would add +5 DM.
Cal: [SKILL] Engineer (J-Drive) (2D+3) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+3 = 9] [+5 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] 30 Minutes. Checking Jeet's work.

Final data analysis:

Calendar

1105-006 -- 1105-007 -- 1105-008

• System - Marduk
• Message Center - Anchor link to section of Message Center
• Ship's Log - Anchor links to Personal Logs & Library Entries
• In Character discussions - Anchor links to discussions on this page
• Category Tags - Marduk, Cal, Amada, Ashe, Jeet, Kalidaren

1105-007 - 10:10 - Marduk Highport contact

Marduk Highport to Free & Clear. Your registration is cleared. Are you off loading any passengers on your visit? Do you need any cargo assistance for offloading? I have a fueling port open for you 13:45 if you can make it here safely in that time, do you need me to find a later time frame for you? Out.

Free & Clear to Marduk Highport. Much thanks, and we'll take that fueling port. I show our arrival at 13:35, so good timing. We're on a tight schedule, just looking for fuel and supplies and then bounce. My purser will shoot over a list; anything you can do to expedite would be appreciated. Free & Clear, out.

Marduk High, this is Purser Lyre of the Free & Clear. Refuel required. 20t refined and 20 unrefined. Required maintenance and life support, although I'll oversee the dietary component along with our Steward. No passengers or cargo to offload.

With the permission of the Captain, and while they were impatiently waiting to alight and take advantage of a short shore leave, Kalidaren addressed the crew and passenger of the Free & Clear. They could see that the Sindalian had taken effort to dramatically change the way he looked, with shaven cheeks and shorter hair; gone was his wavy locks. "I would appreciate it if you could all refer to me as Purser Sed Lyre, Sed or Purser Lyre from here onward. I've decided to leave my former persona behind for a time. Apart from my name and appearance, I will not have changed, and will fulfil my duties as contracted. Thank you." He gave no other explanation but wore his usual determined expression.

Cal waits for some later private moment, Sed? He waits for acknowledgement. I certainly understand the need for an occasional name change. He gestures around vaguely. Just be careful you know what you're leaving behind when you do. The whole point is to lose a part of your past. Just be sure that what you're losing isn't something you'll regret later.

He looks sternly at Sed. And remember what I said about trouble. He relaxes. Any time you want to talk, come and see me.

Jeet does a search of Marduk data for a few items. Ashe, Thebus tabloid stories (unusual, not normally newsworthy stuff), 'be on the lookout' notices, and adverts for robotics work or holographic jobs (not necessarily in-system jobs).

Jeet: [SKILL] Electronics (computers) (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+4 = 11] [+7 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] Looking for Ashe info. 3 Mins.

Jeet: [SKILL] Electronics (computers) (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+4 = 14] [+10 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] Looking for Thebus tabloid news, various stories. 5 Mins.

Jeet: [SKILL] Electronics (computers) (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+4 = 8] [+4 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] Looking for Thebus Maps and Topography. 6 Mins.

Jeet: [SKILL] Electronics (computers) (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+4 = 13] [+9 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] Looking for Thebus Fauna. 5 Mins.

Jeet: [SKILL] Electronics (computers) (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+4 = 14] [+10 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] Looking for "Be On the Look-Out" notices. 2 Mins.

Jeet: [SKILL] Electronics (computers) (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+4 = 10] [+6 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] Looking for Robotics or Holographic jobs. 5 Mins.

Just checking to see if there is visual references for Ashe isn't enough. Need to do style and content review, too.

Jeet: [SKILL] Electronics (computers) (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+4 = 10] [+6 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] Study Ashe visuals for style and any 'trade-mark' moves or content. Up Timescale: 10 Mins.

1105-007 - 13:40 - Marduk Highport

Free & Clear Ledger

Kalidaren was out the lock as soon as he was able and headed straight for the Commercial Arm and a clothing vendor where he barters for a bargain. Following that, he heads to the bar where he drinks and plies the locals for rumours and information. Finally he will meet with the vendors of the dietary component of the life support for the Free & Clear and try to barter and supplement their meagre rations.

If Ashe accompanies him, he will purchase them a new outfit, although the limited range in Marduk High might not appeal to high fashion tastes.

Ashe remains on the Free & Clear.

Sed Lyre: [SKILL] Broker (2D+4) [OVERRIDE - SOC = 2D+0] (vs Difficulty 6) [ +6 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] Barters with a clothing vendor for two new outfits.

Sed Lyre: [SKILL] Carouse (2D) (vs Difficulty 6) [ +1 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] Has 3 or 4 drinks and jokes with the locals.

Sed Lyre: [SKILL] Streetwise (2D+1) (vs Difficulty 6) [ +3 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] Assesses the bar crowd attempting to choose someone knowledgable about Marduk and Oghman cluster rumours.

Sed Lyre: [SKILL] Broker (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 8) [ +8 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] Meets the ship's provisioners and secures a supply of Deep Fried Nutripaste Bites, Vacc-sealed Hydroponic Berry Tarts and fresh Marduk Kelp, salty and savoury, all for the standard price of re-provisioning.

As Sed moves through Marduk Highport, he is approached by two very large, bulky Aslan warriors.

"Are you part of the Free & Clear?"

"Yes, I am the Purser of the Free & Clear. May I ask your names and business? I am currently very busy and must not delay." He looks for a way past, hoping that these two aren't seeking combat, as the Aslan are wont to. His laser pistol was back on the ship, he thought the law was tight here in Marduk High. He fingers his transceiver as a ship wide alert to his crew members might be his only recourse.

"Are you looking to make purchases here? I can certainly facilitate any business you might have here in Marduk High."

I can't access FG right now, but Sed would try to persuade them that he can get something that they need BOB rolled for Kalidaren: Persuade at Difficult and had a marginal failure (-1) and a Streetwise at Difficult and had an Average success (+3)

"We are here to escort you to Lord Ftahkaiw. He is going to grant you a boon for the task you will do for him.

Sensing that compliance might be valorous on this occasion, Sed allowed himself to be escorted. Actually he thought he might look quite impressive, with his edgy new hair and outfit, walking through Marduk High flanked by two large and bulky Aslan warriors. That feeling passed quickly though as he considered if he was, in fact, in danger.

Out of caution he also tapped out a quick message on his mobile comm.

To: Crew of the Free & Clear
I am attending a meeting with an unknown Aslan Lord Ftahkaiw. Not able to refuse meeting. (Pings location data)
Sed Out.

I haven't written Ashe into this scene, but Sed would be grateful if he didn't have to handle this encounter alone!

Jeet looks for anything like drones for better situational awareness. Small, with a few spectral options would be nice. If the drone gave the group a few kilometers of view around them, with thermal and low light capability, it would warn us of fauna approaching, if nothing else. Did Thebun Lions travel in prides?

Sed walks behind the two bulky Aslan warriors. They bring him to a lift, One goes in, clears it, the other nods and nudges Sed gently in, he turns to stop anyone else from coming into the lift with them.

Sed rolls Streetwise, average Sucess

Sed spots that the lift buttons have been slightly altered. There is a large gold circle around the one for the third level. One of the Aslan presses that button, a slight movement, and the doors open again to the normal Highport gallery. As they step out leading Sed, he spots that up ahead there is a large area blocked off from everyday passage. There are two more large Aslan warriors standing at a loose guard. Sed's two guards escort him up to the check point and then through. There are no doors, it appears to be temporary walls, all elaborately decorated, woven rugs laid out on the floors and the effect of turning this area into... an Aslan clan holding?

Sed wracks his brain trying to think which clan has business in Marduk and surrounds, and if he can see any clan insignia or other identifier. He thought if he could figure out which clan and their business, then he might better negotiate his way out of this free and clear and back to the ship.

[CHARACTERISTIC] EDU (2D+4) (vs Diff. 8) 3 + 1 + 3 (EDU) = 7 [ -1 Effect] [Average FAILURE]

[SKILL] Science (Economics) (2D+5) (vs Difficulty 8) 3 + 6 + 5 (Skill+EDU) = 14 [ +6 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS]

EDU check to see if Sed knows anything about clans operating in the area. Science Economics to see if he has learned anything about Aslan business interests.

Sed knows that Lord Ftahkaiw is not a member of one of the ruling clans but not sure of the exact one. He does know that Lord Ftahkaiw is well known in this part of the Reach for being a savy trader who expects nothing but the best where ever he goes and most times finds it.

1105-007 - 13:45 - Free & Clear bridge

Cal searches the Marduk database for information about Lord Ftahkaiw.

[SKILL] Electronics (Computers) (2D+1) (vs Difficulty 8) 1 + 4 + 1 (Skill+INT) = 6 [ -2 Effect] [Average FAILURE]
[SKILL] Investigate (Untrained) (2D-2) (vs Difficulty 8) 4 + 6 -2 (Skill+INT) = 8 [ +0 Effect] [Marginal SUCCESS]

 Not sure which skill should be used, or what the task difficulty would be.  Resulting info will affect the following post, so please consider it a placeholder for now.  Or maybe there's a delay in getting the info back?

Cal gets a little more information in addition to the things he pulled up that matches Sed's memories. Lord Ftahkaiw is part of the Yetahikh clan. He is known to have a steady stream of income and multiple sons. In the Aslan tradition only the senior son inherits. Cal finds few detailed records but does show that Lord Ftahkaiw travels s circuit between the Hierate and the human systems of the Reach.

Cal on intraship broadcast.
Everybody, be alert. I just heard from Sed - he's been taken by an Aslan claiming to be Lord Ftahkaiw. No idea what his intentions are.

I want the ship buttoned up, and everyone ready to jump. If we need to go bust him out, I don't want to waste minutes.

(after checking the ships logs for who else was off-ship).
Jeet? There might be trouble in port. Return to the ship at once. It looks like your bots may get a field trial, sooner than expected. I'm not sure what's going on yet, but I want to have options.

Cal sets up a monitor program for any activity with Sed's ID accessing the ship's accounts, security, etc. If Sed (or someone using his ID) attempts to access anything relating to the Free & Clear, Cal will be alerted immediately.

Cerabu closes his eyes a moment, Purser was becoming a complication. Opening them again, he rose and pulled on his coat before reaching out for his staff and exiting his stateroom. As he descended to the cargo bay, it struck him that the ship was a poor design. Passengers could easily be cornered by a boarding party, no escape. Bottle neck with no escape. Having a plan B was always essential. There was no plan B for passengers aboard the Free & Clear. If the ship was taken, the passengers were taken, possibly without even realizing it. Rescue their only hope. Bad design.

''The ape found Cal on the bridge. "Purser's a complication."

Cal looks sharply at Cerabu. Sed? What do you mean? Do you know something about this?

Cerabu's nostrils flare as he inhales deeply, his broad chest expanding greatly, his eyes narrow, the bridge of his nose crinkles in that way that indicated irritation. "I understand privacy more than anyone. Working in grey creates caution . . . suspicion . . . paranoia. Uncomfortable talking about his past. We both know that route. Didn't want to say if he could fly. Was that because of me, or you? You're his captain. I'm the patron. We need to know his skillset, but he's . . . evasive . . . secretive . . . furtive. Changes his looks right before port. Wants a different name. Immediately into port a meeting he can't refuse? Why not? Walk away. Port authority would've been a different message. Sends location with just a cryptic name. Did he send it, or someone else? May mean nothing? May be a lure. Rescue or ambush? If I were looking to steal a ship, this ship, this's one way I might do it . . . if I could fly it, which I can't. Lure everyone off, board while they're away, take off if I can fly it . . . if I know engineering . . . if I can plot a course. I know none of that. Lot of red flags in very little time. You said you know him, said people can change. I paid for my privacy, made that clear at the start. He ignores it. Can't abide intentional disrespect. Complication."

Cerabu brings his cigar to his mouth as his lips pull back into a sneer. He hadn't looked at it once as it dangled in his fingers down by his side. His eyes have remained straight forward. "You thought he should be brought in prior to arrival. If he'd been forthcoming, maybe. Right now, I see an offload of personnel. But it's your ship, your crew. Fast departure didn't give you time to vet, put together a proper crew. Couldn't be helped. I see two choices: leave him, go get him. Trust's not an option. He's a deal-maker. Ask the question: Did he make a deal for this ship?" Cerabu pauses just a couple of seconds before the next word deliberately emphasizing each syllable, "Complication."

He slowly blows out a long stream of smoke, the sneer still embedded on his face.

Cal purses his lips. Kalidaren was reliable, and would always see a deal through without trying to cut out or flip sides in the middle. He does, however, LOVE the deal. I could easily see him following the scent of a big score and not realizing until too late he was following it off a cliff. But, as you say, Sed. He pauses. There's a lot of reasons to make a change like that. I'm not willing to assume the worst, although I will prepare for it.

"Have to assume the worst. Only way to prepare."

''Sigh. If it comes to that, yes, I understand we have a deadline. But I'm willing to bend a bit before leaving one of my crew to hang in the wind.

"Okay," Cerabu nods, "we go get him."

The Captain wants the bots on stand-by? Bad words. They are still in their crate, and need assembly. Back to the ship, as fast as I can move. Aslan? Really? I know next to nothing about Aslan. Big, strong, and irritable. Senses are more acute, I recall. The bots won't give away any hints of their approach, though. No noise, nor scent, to give them away, even if 'upwind'.

1105-007 - 13:55 - Free & Clear

Jeet hustles into the cargo bay, quickly activating the latches on his storage container. Jeet taps his comm, texting the Captain,

To: Captain, Free & Clear
From: Jeet
Aboard and prepping bots. ETR: 30 mins.

The boot program was initiated, and the quick disconnects were flipped. The bots slowly levitated up out of their cradles. Jeet pulled an arm out of a stroage sleeve and attached it to one of the bots. On contact, the shoulder joint engaged, noises and buzzes commenced. Three more to go, and then diagnostics. They could be rushed, and perhaps today, that would be a good thing. Jeet taps a few buttons on the storage bin panel to initiate the diagnostics as he finished connecting the arms. Perhaps less than Twenty minutes? Cool!

1105-007 - 14:00 - Meeting with Sed & Lord Ftahkaiw

There are no doors, it appears to be temporary walls, all elaborately decorated, woven rugs laid out on the floors and the effect of turning this area into... an Aslan clan holding?

Sed is lead into an open space with enormous cushions, open 'rooms' with several Aslan roaming around. It has a very temporary feeling, like being on a hunt. Everything could be picked up and moved in the morning to the next location. Sed does spot a small desk with a female Aslan working away on a computer terminal that has the standard space station wall behind it that has a picture of a large male Aslan with a prominent black scar across the right side of his forehead, just below his ear.

With a loud booming voice, "You are the Captain of the Free & Clear? You look far to fragile for that" Sed turns around and the Aslan from the portrait is standing in front of him with his hands on his hips staring down at him.

"No, not the Captain. I am the Purser of the Free and Clear." Sed sought to quickly, but politely progress this impromptu meeting. "May I ask why I have been brought here? Is there a matter I might help you with?"

"You limp limbed cubs, you brought the wrong human. Can't you tell the difference between them?" Turning back to Sed "I do not want to waste my time or your time Purser, call your Captain Cal, have him come for this meeting and we can talk about this only one time."He turns and walks over to a cushion to sit down, he cannot imagine a world where Sed would not just immediately do as he was told.

Sed distanced himself as best he could for the privacy of the call, and dialed Cal.

Cal? Yes, this is Sed. Everything is fine... I've been escorted to an impromptu meeting with Lord Ftahkaiw..."

Although not perfect, Sed carefully copied the Aslan pronunciation as best he might.

"... and he now requests that you attend. He has some business to discuss..?"

Sed looked back to Lord Ftahkaiw hoping to confirm this with a nod or other non-verbal affirmation.

"I'm sending you the location details... Okay, one moment... sent."

Sed checked the time wondering if they might still be on track for their planned departure.

1105-007 - 14:00 - Free & Clear

Law Level on Marduk is moderate, but lasers are not permissible. On station, one run by GeDeCo, they are definitely not allowed. Don't install, or inhibit and don't tell anyone? I'm going for not telling anyone. The Captain can rip a strip off me, and deny he knew. If they don't shoot anyone, nobody should know. I need to set up the priority authorizations with in-person scans, though. Sooner is better.

To: Captain, Free & Clear
From: Jeet
Request you meet the bots for final authorization calibration, Sir. This can be any time, but should be done ASAP.
Who-ever is the ship's tactical commander, space and ground, they should be in the Command Hierarchy as well.
If you wish our Patron to have overrides, or any command authority, he should attend, as well.

(Intraship to Jeet)
I'll be there in 15 minutes. I'll check with our charter, and bring him if he wishes. I want them ready to roll by 14:45.

(To Sed)
Sed, tell him I'll meet with him at a neutral location near our dock at 15:00 - you pick something appropriate, don't let him dictate terms. Return to the ship at once.

Cal turns to Cerabu. Well, it appears that answers some of our questions.

The ape gives a subtle shake of his head in disagreement.

I'm inclined to meet with this Lord Ftahkaiw and see what he wants; I'll be able to get a much better sense of what's going on dealing with him face to face. We won't be through fueling and loading until 16:30, so we have a bit of time.

Cerabu nods.

I do understand, it's your timetable, and your money. But you said I could make my own deals, if it didn't interfere.

Again, he nods.

I'm planning to take Jeet's bots for muscle - they look sufficiently imposing for the role, and if things take a bad turn, I suspect they can handle that as well.

Do you wish to attend also? If so, it wouldn't hurt for you to have backup command authorization for the bots if something happens to me. The last few years I've been forced to acknowledge I'm not as young or resilient as I used to me.

And again, he nods, taking a draw of his cigar.

This assumes that he allows Sed to return to the ship. If he's holding my crew hostage, well, I still think my best bet is to attend that meeting.

"If we go, he is coming back."

Cal sports a feral grin. Then I suspect Lord Ftahkaiw's business won't go quite as smoothly as he hopes.

"Been a while, still know how to deal with Aslan. Show strength."

Somewhere in the movement of the crew, the bots get the ID scan required. Jeet leaves Wrench at the main hatch, and sends Patch with the Captain. The Captain has Full Authorization, and Command Override ('Armis Liberum' {Weapons Free} - can turn off sophont non-harm inhibitors and shoot to kill.), if needed. Jeet told Patch to guard the Captain as a bodyguard, with 'interpose' priority (the bot will move to put the bot physically between any threat and the Captain, if there is a threat perceived). Jeet will advise Cal that Patch will give two soft chirps if Patch is considering moving in a protective manner. Cal will have to say 'Wait' or 'Steady' to have Patch remain in guard/observe mode.

1105-007 - 14:00 - Meeting with Sed & Lord Ftahkaiw

(To Cal) Understood. I'll suggest the Atrium. Overlooking the docks.

"Captain Cooper requests a neutral meeting place. The Atrium by the docks is a suitable location. Shall we?" Sed beckons back the way he was brought in.

The broker was accustomed to being "protected" in his dealings, generally worth more alive than dead for his information, skills, and ability to make large sums of credits for those he dealt with. He felt more comfortable again now, being in communication with his crew and the middle man in a possible deal, and so reassumed his general confident, no nonsense demeanor.

[SKILL] Persuade (2D+2) (vs Difficulty 8) 2 + 6 + 1 (Skill+INT) = 9 [ +1 Effect] [Average SUCCESS]

(Lord Ftahkaiw)"I do not want to waste my time traveling to and fro through the rest of this starport, I have my own place here for doing business. Yet I do understand your Captain's reluctance, he undoubtedly has heard of how complicated deals can be with me, and luring me out of my own space he thinks he would be on even ground. I will retire, and your Captain will miss out on his opportunity."

Lord Ftahkaiw turns away, and walks into another room. After a moment passes with Sed deciding what to do about this impass....

(female)"Weahfiyoa Ai is here Lord... she pauses and steps away behind the tapestries. (Lord Ftahkaiw)"Khehiy Eaikhtekh, why can't Weahfiyoa handle a simple cargo sign off. What is so important that I need to appear. Ahhh I see she needs me to be threatening, to intimidate that broker that is trying to squeeze her. Very well."

Lord Ftahkaiw turns to Sed, "Purser, I have to travel down to the second level, I can have my guards escort you as we travel along. They can drop you at your Atrium as we go by."

1105-007 - 14:00 - Free & Clear

(to Cerabu) You were concerned about his loyalty? I left the meeting location to him, and he picked the Atrium. Let's see how appropriate a location he picked.

"Sounds like perfect place for snipers. Especially if you already knew you'd need it."

(To Cal) Lord Ftahkaiw decided a deal is too much trouble if he must leave his abode. But he has business elsewhere in the 'port and will escort me to the Atrium. Come ask about his opportunity. The Atrium. He's known as a savy trader.

"Thank you, Lord Ftahkaiw." Sed gave a deferential nod to the Aslan as they walked. He attempted to make some small enquiries, "Are you here long on Marduk? I hear this place would be more prosperous if it werent for the Oghmans. They'd be grateful for some tech imports..."

(Lord Ftahkaiw)"I trade throughout the Reach, we are on the Florian Trade Route so there are mega-freighters arriving with goods both at Oghma and here at Marduk. When there are deals to be made that is where I hunt. I move my camp from system to system every few months to ensure I always have a clean lay of the land. That is what I want your Captain for. While I am busy here your ship can handle a bit of side business for me.

1105-007 - 15:00 - The Atrium (near the docks at Marduk Highport)

The group gets into the lift, one of the guards carefully uses the gold button to activate the lift. It goes no where. Sed understands the issue and presses the button labeled for the second level. The lift descends and you emerge into the broad concourse. Sed leads the way towards the Atrium. As you approach the Captain is standing out front with Cerabu.

Patch is sweeping the area with the installed Recon Scanner, and multi-spectral visual optics. Anything moving is mapped and analyzed. Any electronic signatures are collected and compared to the internal database to identify them. If anyone approaches the Captain, Patch will know if they are carrying communications devices (if on and normally communicating with the station). Anyone carrying unshielded energy weapons or explosives will be marked as potential threats. If Cal had been wearing Smart Glasses, all these potential targets would be uploaded to his "HUD".

Link to Smart Glasses

Patch: [SKILL] Recon (Sensor Suite) (2D+2) (vs Difficulty ?) [2d6+2 = 5] [-? Effect] [Average FAILURE] Checking out the Aslan and surroundings. 1 Sec.

Jeet: [SKILL] Electronics (computers) (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 8) [2d6+4 = 12] [+4 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] Diagnosing Recon Suite and interconnection of internal routing on Patch. 4 Mins.

Patch: [SKILL] Recon (Sensor Suite) (2D+2) (vs Difficulty ?) [2d6+2 = 8] [+? Effect] [Marginal SUCCESS] Checking out the Aslan and surroundings. Again. 5 Secs.

as the group walks up to where Cal is. Sed starts to introduce them but...

(Lord Ftahkaiw)"Ah Captain Cooper, Nice of you to come see me as I am going to solve this problem with the purser. I will be blunt. Go to Thebus, bring my son Ftahteas home, if he friends are not dead feel free to bring them along also, I will reward you when you get them back here at Marduk. If you need more information your man here can come with me.

He turns and continues to walk down the corridor.

"Fool." Cerabu eyes the Aslan as he walks away, then looks at the Free & Clear crew. "Back to the ship. He can find his offspring on his own." Cerabu turns and walks determinedly back the way they came staying ahead of the others.

Sed, Cal calls sharply. Back to the ship.

He looks thoughtfully at the retreating Aslan. Ftahteas, son of Lord Ftahkaiw. On Thebus. Hmm. Worth keeping in mind. I'm sure there's more information we could use, but I'd rather we uncover it ourselves, so as to keep our options open.

OK, everybody. Back to the ship. We lift in 90 minutes.

Jeet: [SKILL] Electronics (computers) (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+4 = 11] [+7 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] Check Marduk logs for Aslan visitors, find high status individuals, and the name "Ftahteas". 1 Min.

Jeet: [SKILL] Electronics (computers) (2D+4) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+4 = 10] [+6 Effect] [Exceptional SUCCESS] Check Marduk logs for Info on Ftahteas and last known time in Marduk? Ship and any entourage?. 3 Mins.

Sed senses Cal's mood to be tense, and acquiesces to his request to return to the ship.

1105-007 - 15:15 - The Free & Clear, Captain's office (docked at Marduk Highport)

As they enter the ship, Cerabu peels off to his cabin.

As they return to the ship, Cal orders Sed to accompany him to the captain's office.

Patch is directed to the Cargo Bay, as the crew enters the ship. Wrench is left at the Cargo Bay hatch, and Jeet attempts to get whatever tactical data out of Patch. Was there a usable medical scan, that could be used to ID Ftahteas?

Sed dutifully followed Cal to his office attempting to explain how his meeting with Lord Ftahkaiw came about, saying, "The Aslan have rather a direct negotiating style. Upon reflection, I'm glad that I wasn't being abducted. I seem to have been the cause of some panic aboard the Free & Clear. I wouldn't worry... I'm in familiar territory in most starports in this subsector."

Firstly, why did you not return to the ship when ordered?

Sed listened trying to gauge the Captain's intent. He responded matter-of-factly, "I returned via the quickest path, along with Lord Ftahkaiw..." he wasn't sure this was the answer that was sought, so elaborated, "...by that time (at the Atrium) I had seen the Free and Clear, and had ascertained that I was not late for departure, and that I was not in danger." Sed was saying that he had been autonomous, and in truth, was not accustomed to being ordered as he'd been his own boss for evermore.

That aside, there is this tidbit of information we just uncovered; Lord Ftahkaiw's idiot son Ftahteas is on Thebus. And from his father's actions, I suspect that is a vulnerability. You know the players in this sector, including the Heirate, right? Who would pay for this knowledge?

[SKILL] [SKILL] Sed Investigate check to remember/research details of Lord Ftahkaiw, Ftahteas, the Yetahikh clan and possible allies and enemies (2D+3) (vs Difficulty 8) 5 + 5 + 3 (Skill+INT) = 13 [ +5 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] 1D x 10 minutes = 60 minutes

Sed could not think of anyone straight away, and advises Cal of this. "It's not to say I don't know, though. As you know, I'm a fastidious record keeper... I'll consult my notes and cross reference against what I can get from local sources."

Cal observes Sed getting lost in his data, and leaves to finish prepping the ship for departure.

Sed took out his PC and began keyword searches, looking through past deals and contacts, and then discretely cross referencing Marduk Port sources, hoping to learn the information that Cal sought. After 20 minutes, he sighed in frustration, "This is taking longer than I'd hoped... how long to departure? I expect I'll find something soon..." Sed figured some promising leads, but it was laborious work and might take some time yet to complete.

We lift in less than an hour. And shouldn't you start reviewing your astrogation data to prep for jump? Let your agent software search for now. If nothing comes up, that's OK too. I'll admit I'm tempted to return the kid to his daddy in a box, but that'd just incur bad blood for nothing but a sop to my temper. Best to just move on.

1105-007 - 16:30 - The Free & Clear departs Marduk Highport

Data gleaned from the quick scans and searches:

• Lord Ftahkaiw - Is who he said he is, merchant with apparently large funds, several ships that work for him, most are human free merchant types. Known to honor his deals.
• Ftahteas - The second son of Lord Ftahkaiw, so will not inherit any territory unless he takes his own, an ihatei. Notable quirk is that he apparently was gifted? a transport ship and presumed weaponry

Jeet's robots were able to get a decent scan of Lord Ftahkaiw, could ascertain a random Aslan Male as being related to him with 50% to 70% accuracy. Jeet and Sed do have accurate Clan Markings so that should boost identifying a potential Ftahteas if he is wearing clothing

Details about Thebus from the data library:

• Thebus has several rather strange creatures and plants, of which the most impressive is the so-called Thebun Lion. The Thebun Lion has a thick skin and its glossy pelt provides considerable natural protection,
• Offworlders typically use breathing masks or supplemental oxygen, though it is possible to acclimatise over a period of several weeks. Those who do not will find any exertion extremely tiring and can suffer from altitude sickness even at sea level. This causes confusion, slow reactions and sometimes delirium.

1105-007 - 16:30 - The Free & Clear

To: Captain
From:Jeet
FYI: Med scans of Aslan during meeting will allow 50-70% ID of future encountered Aslan as family to the Lord on Marduk Station. If the Aslan encountered have clan symbols, very likely we can ID with good reliability.

Jeet, thanks, but I'm not planning to get involved with his clan. We've got our charter, and I'm not jeopardizing it without a much better reason.
We'll be ready to jump in just over 3 1/2 hours. Do you want me to monitor the jump drive with you again?

(space for potential radio communications, other final data will come out of the computers during jump)

[SKILL] Sed's Astrogation check for Jump to Thebus (2D+5) (vs Difficulty 4) 1 + 3 + 5 = 9 [ +5 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] 1D x 10 minutes = 30 minutes

1105-007 - 20:10 - The Free & Clear reaches the jump point

NOTE: This should be on the Free & Clear page, no?

Jeet: [SKILL] Engineer (2D+2) (vs Difficulty 4) [2d6+2 = 8] [+4 Effect] [Average SUCCESS] 20 Minutes. Firing Jump drive.
Plus the Effect of the Astrogation check? Would add +5 DM.

Final data analysis: