To The Stars

Campaign Headquarters, Bastion

Ulysses looks straight at Pip, finally setting the glass down.

"In terms of megafauna, there are beasts down there...large, reptilian creatures. Farmers and scavengers on the surface have domesticated some as transportation, labor or pets, but there's bound to be plenty of wild ones, too. They can get nasty, so...be on guard."

The senator raises an eyebrow at Alia's reaction, but doesn't have the time to question it before Cibo intervenes. Notably, even Ruri's display barely gets a reaction out of the man. Giegue's question, meanwhile, elicits a chuckle from Ulysses.

"If it were that easy, there'd hardly be a point to the whole trial. The people on the surface are largely...distanced from those of us up here. Political clout from the cities doesn't carry much weight down there. We're one society, don't get me wrong, but the exchange rate on someone's reputation is pitiful. As for your ship, repairs shouldn't be difficult. We're fairly advanced here on Centerra, moreso than most planets you'll find, not to sound pompous."

Upon the Toa's wind gust, Ulysses moves quickly to save the one link to his remaining sanity - his glass of scotch, snatching it off the table for fear it might be blown off. This is immediately followed by Titus's arrival and the ensuing controversy, resulting in Ulysses knocking back the rest of the glass before addressing the two parties.

"Enough. If you work for me, then put your personal gripes aside until after the mission. You can argue intergalactic politics once my son's pilgrimage is complete."

His attention is quickly taken by Susie's interjection.

"Susie, there's my favorite lobbyist. Yes, I trust your judgment on this - your record for management is impeccable, from what I've heard."

He looks around the room.

"Come to think of it...several of you have a bit of a reputation. Titus, man of your talents, I'm surprised you accepted the job...not that I'm complaining. Alia, a Navigator for the Maverick Hunters, data and threat analysis are a requirement for that job. HK-47...your reputation speaks for itself. Just to name a few."

As for Aquarius's vision, several strange omens reveal themselves. A gas giant further out in the system, known as "Juno," seems to be revolving and orbiting Stella more slowly than it should be. A dark, amorphous shadow falls over a section of Centerra, clearly an omen of danger for anyone embarking on a journey to the surface. Stella itself shines more brightly for a few moments - this is likely an indication that the journey will be a success in some way. Someone is going to reach Stella for the end of the trial, but it's unclear what the context is. He does get one more vision, towards the end before the lights come back. A small, dark, vaguely reptilian shape descends from the shadow above Centerra, a flying monster with a carapace like steel, glowing amber eyes and shimmering wings of gold. A moment later, Ulysses flicks the lights back on.

"Rose?"

A humanoid robot rolls into the room on a single wheeled limb, speaking in a feminine voice.

"Yes, Mistah U?"

"Please hand out passes to the surface."

"Right on it."

As the droid hands out a series of keycards, Ulysses looks out the window to a building across the way not unlike a futuristic bus terminal.

"There's an elevator pod service in that building. You'll be meeting Everett there - take a pod down to the surface and get him home, successfully. Then I'll fulfill my end of our deal."

He pauses upon Himeno and Don walking in.

"...Oh, right, last minute additions. I had a campaign staffer scouting to fill out the roster, campaign finance reasons."

Edited by ZodanTheUnbounceable on Apr 10th 2024 at 8:02:46 AM

What You See Is Probably What You Get (Aquarius)

Okay, so the journey's going to be dangerous, that we all already knew. Stella's light, though—that's a good sign. Someone's making it up there, at least. I dunno if it's going to be us, though (granted we'd all turn to ash upon entering the exosphere so failure might not be the worst thing in the world). I think I can end it...here...

...oh I do not like the look of that thing.

My face is a bit paler than usual when the lights come back on and I turn off the Ephemeris, causing the holograms to wink away. "So, uh," I begin, "not to freak anyone out, but something’s coming."

Edited by LilyTheLitten on Apr 10th 2024 at 5:08:00 AM

Seras - Meeting Room

Seras can help but look with wonder at the holograms in the dark. Even if the stars burn her, she still admires them.

Pip's eye is focused on Aquarius up until the exact moment the hulking soldier enters the room, at which point it snaps to Titus and stares. Then he huffs a small laugh.

You know, when I said the Frankenstein's Monster thing earlier, it was a joke, he thinks at his love, wise enough to not insult a super-soldier out loud, and Seras has to resist the urge to giggle.

Don't be rude, Pip. Seras offers a small wave in greeting to the Lieutenant, utterly unconcerned by his presence. From how she holds herself, it's as if she doesn't consider him a threat at all, even though she holds no love for the Imperium.

Though, Titus seems reasonable enough, and statistically most of the Imperium's flaws are probably concentrated in the ruling class.

"Nice to meet you, Lieutenant." She says, before turning to focus on the fortuneteller.

"More detail would be nice." Seras says, giving Aqua a bemused smile. "Names and faces, if possible. Assuming your visions are that specific."

Pip, meanwhile, steps closer to HK-47. "So, Assassin Droid. Out of curiosity, were you built to be an assassin, or did you just decide to become one? Strange choice of profession, if so, but it's not like I have any right to judge."

Edited by kagescorpionakki on Apr 10th 2024 at 8:32:34 AM

HK's Optics turned toward the sudden holographic display for a moment. Oh, he certainly was reminded in similarities of the Star Maps back many many years ago when he and his amnesiac master were seeking the Star Forge. Ah, such fun times. A shame Revan is not here anymore. But at the same time, maybe he should be thankful he's not around. The two Sith meatbags that lead the Galactic Empire would be rather...disappointing in his master's eyes, even if they are very powerful.

"Proud Statement: Of course it does. I was made to do my job to absolute perfection, and so will the same happen here." The HK unit gave a nod towards Ulysses, grabbing the keycard from what HK assumed was a Protocol Droid. Of course, it seemed one of the people in here were curious about him and asked him about his origins. The droid would then answer Pip

"Answer: The first one. My former master, a great Sith Lord, created me with the intent of being a more subtle way to eliminate his foes. Even if I did not enjoy killing, I would have no choice thanks to my programming. Thankfully, I enjoy it very much."

Your Horoscope Does Not Look Good (Aquarius)

"Uh—no—kinda?" I wave my hands around a bit, trying to emphasize the point...uh, whatever the point is. "I see the stars and the planets and the moons move, and from there I figure out what they mean and what they're foretelling—I'm good at that. But I don't usually get specifics, like, just then I learned that there would be trouble on the surface, no surprise there, and then someone would make it to Stella, so good sign. But—"

I pause to let them sort out that bit of rambling, then start again. "But it's usually not specific, if it is it's usually stuff that's either going to affect entire planets or star systems." Like the end of the world— Shut up, brain. "But I saw, at the end, a shape. Vaguely reptilian, steel scales, glowing eyes, wings...I-I don't normally See stuff like that."

A familiar knot of anxiety starts to form in my stomach.

"Something is coming."

BB & B, Bastion

Charlie continued to fume, and it seemed for a moment like he was finally about to come to a decision on whether to try and negotiate with the Ultramarine or try and crush his skull...when he was interrupted by Susie speaking up. As he heard what he said, he didn't seem to get any less angry, but his aggression seemed to turn more to a passively simmering sort of hatred than the wrath of an erupting volcano it had been earlier.

"Oh great, now we've got racist, a fascist, a politician and a corpo. Just when I thought things couldn't get worse..." he muttered under his breath.

Meanwhile, Manon seemed to have taken an interest in HK-47.

"Salutation: Greetings, assassin droid." they spoke. "I observe that your speech patterns resemble those of individuals of the Engi Collective of which I am a part. Was your programming arranged by an Engi, or have you perhaps been in close contact with members of the Collective for long enough to obtain their unique speaking habits?"

"Yeah, that's kinda weird." Liam agreed. "Maybe-"

Before he could posit a theory, however, Aquarius summoned a holographic model of the Stella system, drawing the three's attention (which in the last few minutes seemed to have reached pinball levels of bouncing around) to it and causing Liam to gasp in awe.

"Whoaaaa..."

"Huh. So he can make a pretty light replica of a star system. Neat." Charlie grunted as he crossed his arms, though he sounded far less interested than Liam. "But that doesn't tell the future, especially if only he can see part of it. Sounds like a recipe for bogus to me."

As the lights were switched back on, the holograms vanished and Rose handed out passes, Aquarius spoke again, and this time with bad news, which he specified on a moment later. Charlie was about to speak, when Manon interrupted him.

"Recollection: In my experience, supposed fortune tellers who are looking to get the most of those who believe in them most often predict beneficial futures. The prediction of something as dangerous as the creature just described makes the likelihood of this ability being genuine rise by a significant amount."

While he spoke, Liam seemed to be not really listening, just staring at the space where the glowing model of Stella had once been. However, he was snapped out of it by something HK-47 said.

"A Sith Lord? Really?" he asked as he drew closer to the automaton, fascinated. "Wait...but...hold on, how is that possible? I've only ever heard of Sith in legends and old historical documents. How old are you?"

Edited by SushiKraken6414 on Apr 10th 2024 at 6:52:03 AM

Meeting hall

   "Wonderful. If you could be more explicit, it would be appreciated."    Giegue dryly said to Aquarius, not satisfied with his first answer. His second one was slightly better, though there was something he mentioned. A dark shape that was coming, descending on the planet, and that was enough to freak the seer out.

But strangely... why did it sound... familiar to him? In fact, this did not make him afraid at all. It made him... curious. Perhaps a bit too much.

   "...friend... friend... fr... iend..."    a very tiny... "voice", or at least a mumble that sounded like one, muttered in the back of his head, something so inaudible he barely heard it.

Putting this strange familiarity aside, Giegue simply shrugged, nonchalantly grabbing his keycard with his tail.

   "No matter. Whatever it is, we shall be ready for it."    he dismissed before turning toward the newcomers. He did glance at the droid assassin. Though Giegue didn't share its taste for blood, he was not against having one around... as long as someone kept a leash on it.

   "I see. Well, if everyone is here, perhaps we should get in our way and meet with that son of yours."    he remarked to Ulysses.

Edited by Scipion3 on Apr 11th 2024 at 1:32:52 PM

Meeting Room (Alia)

While she wouldn't call herself ignorant of the vastness of space, especially not recently, gazing upon the holographic star system served as a reminder to Alia just how small she was in comparison. Everything she and the Maverick Hunters had fought and died for...it all seemed so insignificant when compared to the greater cosmos. It was a terrifying, yet strangely relieving feeling.

As a pass to the surface was handed to her, Alia began listening in to the conversations around her, which had her frown as she tried to recall relevant details. Normally this wouldn't be an issue, but as of late, her memory and ability to focus wasn't what it used to be. Being reminded of her reputation didn't help with the shame of her performance being less than optimal.

The winged reptilian...she knew that should be bringing something to mind, but it just wasn't coming to her. Sith Lord...she vaguely recalled there being stories of two warring factions in a galaxy far, far away. The droid being an assassin at least allowed Alia to reasonably guess that the Sith weren't the good guys.

"If something is coming, then we shouldn't delay longer than necessary. It would put Everett in danger." Alia said aloud to the group, taking in a breath and exhaling before walking towards the room's exit to wait by the door, which gave her a chance to observe the group as a whole.

Their odds of protecting the boy and seeing him through his task? Quite high.

Their odds of actually getting along and forming a cohesive unit in the process? She wouldn't bet on it.

Cibo: Bastion (Meeting Room)

Cibo eventually turned her attention away from the Ultramarine, instead looking at the star system that Aquarius had projected using some kind of holographic technology. She peered at it for a moment, seeming to measure something with her hands—something that encompassed the entire model from her position—before she shook her head and sighed morosely.

"It's not right..."

She then looked up at Ulysses, having taken in his explanation of the details, and nodded firmly at him.

"We'll deal with any megafauna we find if it means protecting your son. You have my word that I'll die trying if I have to. Better me than him," she promised, not even flinching at her own declaration. She truly meant it, without fear. Alia walking towards the exit of the room prompted Cibo to get moving too, as she glanced between the others before taking her own long strides towards the door of the meeting room. "If there isn't anything else, I think we can start moving. Oh, and—"

She looked back at Aquarius in particular, giving him a hard stare, before her face shifted into a tight smile along with a wink as she began turning away to walk out the door.

"I think we can handle a dinosaur or two. It'll be fine. Now let's go!"

Joining Alia by the door, she smiled down at her while the others were still discussing among themselves or readying to leave, and she crouched down slightly to better accommodate the height difference.

"So, are you a Sillicon Creature? As in, are you completely artificial...? Or is there human in you?"

Edited by Enirboreh on Apr 11th 2024 at 3:27:49 PM

I Feel Like We Should Be a Bit More Concerned (Aquarius)

"...oooookay, guess we're not going to dwell on that..." I mutter to myself, stuffing the Talisman back in my pocket and following the others out the door. I can't shake a really bad feeling about all of this; if the omen was that specific, the whole planet could be in danger.

What I can do is repress it. I'm a master of emotional repression. So that's what I do, locking my anxieties about the quest into a box and shoving that box into a tiny shelf in the corner of my mind, where it can't bother me. Or, more likely, where it will bother me until something comes of it. Oh well. I can fake calmness.

"If we're going to work together, I suppose you should all know my name."

And this was where, back home, I would've given a fake name, simply because I can't use my real one anymore. But this place is making me break a lot of my usual rules...and honestly, I miss being called by my actual name.

"I'm Aquarius." I give everyone a pleasant smile. "Pleasure to work with you."

Meeting Room (Alia)

Well. This was new territory for the Reploid. A question like this almost never had to be asked back home; as human-like as a Reploid could appear, it was still obvious that they weren't human. It hadn't occured to her that someone would think that she was human with implanted parts. Maybe if she was human, she wouldn't have...no. There was a time and place for that train of thought. This was neither.

"I'm a Reploid. Not a creature." The blonde woman replied, her voice betraying a hint of indignation despite her attempts to keep her tone neutral. "But to answer your question, I'm...'artificial', as you put it."

("Artificial. Get right to the point and call me fake, why don't you.") The Reploid couldn't help but think to herself.

Edited by Bored_Man on Apr 11th 2024 at 11:24:06 AM

HK tilted his robotic head as Manon came over. HK had never seen such a droid model before...which considering the era he is in, it certainly makes sense. He has to catch up to all the current trends and technology that are going today. How could he do his job well if he is unaware of a weakness of a new species that has been discovered recently?!

"Clarification: My former master modified me from the HK-24 line of assassin droids produced by the Czerka Corporation. If the Czerka Corporation has worked closely with this Engi Collective, then perhaps the similarities in speech pattern could be due to Czerka sharing some schematics in behaviour with this Engi Collective from HK units they had created."

Then, something akin to a Colicoid went to ask him about his origins. Liam considering the Sith as mere legends makes sense, considering the Jedi and Sith are no longer as numerous as they were in the past. Which is certainly a shame. Killing those pseudo-pacifists and the other Sith who thought they could take their master's position was a great way to relieve some stress in his behaviour core.

"Answer:"Considering my date of creation and the current year we are on, I calculate that I may just be 4,000 years old, meatbag. This unit was around back when the Old Republic and the Sith Empire still existed. Query: Does the name Revan sound familiar to you? Because I was his personal droid."

Ruri, Meeting Room

"Thank you Ms.Rose. You too Mr.Uranus. I don't know if you've told us everything, but your reward is enough to push me into gear. I expect a chance to communicate with Nergal once this is done, but I know where you live. Please don't be an idiot."

She stayed put in her pdrone. If there were more organics she would have felt it necessary to conform, but she fit in better this way. She felt better this way. In this body she wasn't beholden to arbitrary expectations. No-one expected her to emote. Even less would bother searching for needless social cues. Conversation was more dubious, but so far most of her crewmates had neglected her and she had no reason to think that would change. She did want to talk to the Enterprise again, get to know Cibo better, maybe mingle with the robots. They were so fascinating, but there were so many of them. There was so much to keep track of. So overwhelming...

Bastion - Meeting Hall (Lieutenant Titus)

The Lieutenant was not expecting this strange woman to approach him so casually, especially since she was apparently focused on commenting on his height, more than anything else. Which, to a Space Marine used to blunt professionalism or blind reverence (or in the case of the rest of the party, a combination of disgust and fear), is a certainly unique reaction. So when Cibo nods out of respect, he can only nod in response, but not without noticing the peculiar combination of how this woman wasn't a cyborg like he initially assumed, but rather something akin to a Woman of Iron with a much cleaner aesthetic, and not like the aminalistic abominations of Men of Iron that the Mechanicus kept sealed deep under the service of Graia.

"Yes, it'll be a unique experience," Titus concedes, and given the apparent disapproval from the rest of the party, decides to not ask about Cibo's particular nature. "Nevertheless, I intend to serve to the best of my abilities." He does give a nod to Seras after the latter says hello.

The Space Marine would then address the Fedpol Inspector known as Gesicht. "I was not expecting to come here, either, Inspector. But it is good to see one of the Federation's best detectives with us."

The Tech-Priest can only give out an exasperated buzz over Titus' humility, before gaining a sense of curiosity about Cibo. While the Tech-Priest didn't really care for the others (some of their blatant disrespect notwithstanding, especially from that Golem-like Xenos), no-one said that the Tech-Priest is not one to ignore a possible case study for the Omnissiah's benefit. As for Charlie's outburst, Enty herself speaks up, not necessarily in Titus' defense, but in a welcome attempt to deescalate the situation.

And so, when Enty offers her hand for a handshake, Titus would gladly accept it, shaking it with a blue-armoured hand of his. "Of course. I would not have it any other way," he answers to Enty's little deal. Malthiron's body language would change to irritated to fascinated as he hears Enty's introduction as she speaks to Titus.

"You mean to tell me that you can somehow bend the law of science, by compacting your true warship form into something humanoid like you are now? ...Your kind, the KAN-SENs, must be powerful Machine-Spirits!" Galleus speaks up, somehow in awe. If Enty is to look now at Titus, the Space Marine would roll his eyes.

"I am not sure how relevant it is now, but I have some experience as the former Captain of the Ultramarines' 2nd Company. Perhaps I could offer some insight, should one ask." Before he could say anything else, Aquarius' activating artifact would gather both the Space Marine and Tech-Priest's attentions.

The map itself would seem to have an artistic flair, but it is not unlike the holograms Titus himself would survey before going to war. Very particular that this fellow would have access to technology like this. He does not look part of a combat unit. But what he describes... Thankfully, Ulysses makes it clear that any tension between party members is not to be trusted. He nods at the politician's remark about how it is unusual for Titus to be here. "As I said, the Lord Commander instructed me to be here. And I am not here to make enemies. You have my word on that."

And as Titus and Malthiron accept the key-cards, Galleus in particular grabbing his key card with a robotic appendage sticking out of his back, Titus overhears what Aquarius says and scowls at the mention of "something" coming. A bad omen? "Aquarius. Are you certain about this?" he asks as both he and Galleus head to the elevator.

Bastion, Planet Centerra - Meeting Room (Taking Charge)

Susie nodded, beaming as Ulysses commended her management skills, as he should. She graciously accepted the keycard, her glance following along with everyone that Ulysses pointed out. Though she tried to hide it, she can't help but scoot a little bit away when HK-47 stands near her. She wished it wouldn't stand near her. An AI is enough of a red flag, but an AI that enjoys murder for its own sake? What a waste... still, at least it's capable. That could come in handy on this assignment she's just volunteered herself for.

Come to think of it, did Ulysses mention Alia worked for the Maverick Hunters? Interesting. An AI that keeps other AIs in line. She wonders if it'd listen to Star Dream, or if it'd be the other way around.

She was about to inquire further, when suddenly, the lights went out. Her hand twitched for her blaster, but she stopped, scolding herself for letting her danger instincts get the better of her. She was in no danger here. She was sure of it.

Her attention was soon stolen by the admittedly rather impressive stellar display that filled the room, courtesy of one of the contractors she'd completely overlooked. Or more accurately, an artefact in his possession. She was entranced by the stars, so grand and bright, yet so small, small enough to fit in the palm of her hand. Yet there was more going on here than she could see. The contractor was explaining some esoteric powers he had.

"The Psy Network, hmm?" she mused aloud, rubbing her chin (making a scraping sound of metal against metal). She promptly clapped her hands together, seeming excited. "How very interesting! I'm sure we'll have more questions about this later. Impress us and the Company may have work for you and your artefact!"

Hey, it's called being resourceful. You see a valuable asset, never turn it- them down.

She listened intently as the man went on, describing some kind of ominous threat looming. Strange, she doesn't see anything. Must be his powers at work, whatever they are. Either that, or she's got this all wrong and he's just some superstitious charlatan with a hologram-projecting trinket. No sense jumping to conclusions, though; even a charlatan may have some use for the Company.

"I wouldn't concern yourself with your vision," she said as she walked towards the contractor, dismissively waving her hand. "If your little reptilian beastie breathes, we can kill it. We have the technology, and the resources! Between our combined skills, we could dispatch it and have enough ammunition left over for an arms fair!"

Then the contractor told them their name. "Nice to meet you, Aquarius! I don't know why, but I feel like we're going to get along just swell!" she opined in that classic sickly-sweet way, offering a handshake.

It was then, realizing she had yet to even scratch the surface of her contractors - because, as she just volunteered to coordinate them, they were now her responsibility, thus her contractors - she felt it was best to clear up any lingering doubts in their minds. If they even noticed her.

Heh, so it wasn't just her father, she really is that invisible...

"OKAY, PEOPLE!" she raised her voice, allowing her modular voicebox to do most of the heavy lifting. "I suppose I should introduce myself! My name is Susanna, but you can call me Susie! I'm here on behalf of the Haltmann Works Company and, as of now, I shall be co-ordinating this operation - as a little favour to my friend Ulysses here!" she gestured to the politician in question, before putting her hands behind her back. She walked towards the door, looking at each of the contractors in turn.

"I may not know you all, and you may not know me, but I can tell there's some ideological rifts present in this room," she said, glancing at Titus, Giegue and HK-47 in particular. "Nonetheless, I am sure we are all professionals, and we have been entrusted with a task, no matter how small or trivial you may think it is! Therefore, I suggest we all leave our petty little sociopolitical differences behind and come together! It's like we always say at the Company, there's no 'I' in 'team!'" she finished, once again clapping her hands together with a little ^_^ expression.

Gets them every time.

Edited by PresidentStalkeyes on Apr 11th 2024 at 11:32:06 AM

I'm Running Out of Funny Captions (Aquarius)

"Er—yes," I say awkwardly to the pink-haired girl (Susie? I think that's what her name was). "Job offer. I'll keep that in mind." Though really, the less people know about the Talisman, the better.

My brow furrows as some of the others continue to doubt the vision, especially the way-too-big armored man. "I know what I saw," I say, frowning. "I've had years of experience. My visions are rarely not accurate. And they wouldn't be that specific unless something was coming." Please don't ask how I can have years of experience when I look like I'm eighteen.

Susie cuts in again, offering me a handshake. I stare at her for a few moments, then take it, trying for a placating smile. "I hope we get along as well. Short people have to stick together."

...wait, did I say that last part out loud?

Seras - Meeting Room > Elevator Terminal

"Sith, sith, sith... I swear I've heard..." Pip considers the term, and remembers right as HK is explaining himself further. "Ah, right. Ancient order, Dark Side of that 'Force' thing. Crazy cultists, basically."

In their many years, the undead merc duo had encountered the concept of the Force several times; some kind of field that permeated the universe, found in everyone and everything. In a way, not dissimilar to some conceptions of God. In that sense, the Sith must not have been that different from satanic cultists.

Pip does raise an eyebrow at the thought of someone being older than he and Seras, but it's not that surprising. The undead outlast the living, but those that never live can outlast them both.

"So we have big reptiles in our future." Pip declares, turning to focus on Aqua's prophecy. "Nothing we can't handle."

"If it's threatening the whole planet, it might be cause for concern." Seras muses. "But I imagine something that powerful would be noticeable. Could be a metaphor for political turmoil, or something. Either way, I wouldn't be too afraid of the future. It can always change."

She offers another fanged smile, as she grabs a pass for them - notably only one pass, even though Ulysses hadn't mentioned whether each individual would need one - and begins to head for the elevator terminal, pausing only briefly to listen to Susie's speak.

There's a moment where Pip is considering commenting on how the robo-secretary clearly has never lead a military operation before, but Seras silences him with a thought. While neither of them have ever been fond of corporate-speak, Seras at least agrees with the idea of working together cohesively.

To that end, Seras offers a nod before moving towards the terminal. Rather than try to shuffle around the crowd, Seras merely heads for the window, then walks through the wall as though it wasn't there. Pip disappears in the same instant, turning into a shadow that trails behind her like black wings as she glides through the air to the other building.

Edited by kagescorpionakki on Apr 11th 2024 at 7:34:21 AM

Ruri

This was curious. She wasn't stupid, but she didn't think partial machines were capable of such idiocy. If Ulysses had given her such authority she wouldn't have questioned it, but she wasn't aware of any such orders.

"'You're correct ma'am. We've all been entrusted to this task, but none of us have more authority than anyone else at this moment. If you want to stand around and tell everyone to sing Kumbaya you have the power to do so, just as everyone else has the power to not listen to you.""

Edited by kkhohoho on Apr 11th 2024 at 7:07:36 AM

BB & B, Bastion (Meeting Room) —-> Exterior

"Response: Noted." Manon replied to HK-47's answer. "I shall cross-reference my database for mentions of the Czerka Corporation in conjunction with the Engi Collective. One moment..." A loading circle suddenly appeared on his normally blank green screen of a face, and he began to emit a collection of variously toned beeping noises for a few seconds, before returning to normal. "Negative. I do not detect any instances of it. I suppose this linguistic familiarity shall have to remain a mystery for now."

Liam only got more perplexed when HK-47 elaborated further to the Mantis' own query.

"4000?!? But-" he started, then stopped. "Hold on...I think I have heard about a Revan, actually...I can't remember exactly where, maybe it was a history book, maybe it was a bedtime story...but wasn't he a Sith who used to be a Jedi?"

He was so fixated on the assassin droid that he didn't even notice Charlie heading towards the exit in a huff, despite the fact that his footsteps shook the ground. The Rockman was sick of all these bastards. He needed some time to himself, to relax and think. He couldn't go a second in here without someone even worse than the last guy showing up and usually saying something stupid. He had to get out of here and clear his head, and quick. Then, the tiny corpo girl spoke up, drawing everyone's eyes towards her, and he began to growl and clench his fists...only to look over at Liam, remember why he was here, and exhale, releasing the anger. This wasn't worth it. Man, he really had to get out of here...

He headed out the exit, flipping Titus the bird as he did so, and as soon as he was exposed to fresh air again, took a deep breath in and out. He had to do this. But god this was going to be hard. He continued to stand outside and try his best to relax, waiting for Liam and Manon to come out as well. Once they were here, maybe the three of them could head over to where Ulysses had indicated, but for now, he needed alone time.

Edited by SushiKraken6414 on Apr 11th 2024 at 7:37:16 AM

Meeting Room -> Toward Elevator Terminal

Enty looked between the Tech Priest and Titus a little uncertainly at the former's enthusiastic awe, perhaps wondering if the Space Marine shared his view. At Titus' rolling of eyes, however, she smiled slightly in amusement, then explained to the Priest, "It's less that the entire ship has been compressed down to me, and more that I'm the spirit of the ship, you might say! I can summon and dismiss a miniaturized version of my ship self, and transform that miniature version to and from the form of the full ship. And of course, as the ship herself, I have full control of all her systems. I would demonstrate, but that would make things a bit cramped in here! Maybe once we're outside."

That said, she paused as the lights went out and Aqua's display of the stars lit up the darkness of the room. Smiling at the wondrous lights of the universe, she felt a particular nostalgia for a faraway time...

She was laying on her back with her most precious person at her side in the starlit blackness of night, staring up at the grand spectacle of the the galaxy's arm stretching across the sky before them.

"Commander, there are so many stars tonight... could they all be different civilizations, like you said? Could they be just like us? Do they eat food, play, and chit chat like we do?"

"Yes, we're not alone in this universe, after all."

"So, will we meet them? I have so many questions that I want to ask them..."

"Yes, one day... we’ll meet them for sure. You have to believe that humans are inherently enterprising. That is exactly why we gave you that name. Actually... do you like that name?"

"I do!"

"Then... let’s make it a promise!"

I'm still keeping my promise all these years later, Commander... Enty thought to herself, her previously small smile blossoming into one of true happiness. Even Aqua's ominous foretelling wasn't enough to dim her spirits, as she reasoned that whatever that thing was, this team was packed full of people with enough firepower to demolish anything in their way.

As the pint-sized lobbyist tried to take command of the operation, Enty shot her an amused arch of an eyebrow, as if to say, "Really?" All the same, she accepted the keycard from Rose with a murmur of thanks, then addressed Ulysses:

"Ulysses, Sir, I just want to assure you, especially given that troubling prophecy just now, that I will personally do whatever it takes to make sure that Everett returns safely home to you after his successful pilgrimage! Thank you, and farewell for now!"

Leaving their client with that assurance, she hastened after those departing the room, though she paused to blink in surprise as Seras and Pip seemed to merge into one being and the former stepped through the wall and began flying toward the group's next destination. "Just when I think I've seen everything, heh," she muttered to herself, before falling in next to their local prophet.

"Whatever you saw, I wouldn't worry too much about it, Aquarius! With our combined powers, I'm fairly sure there's hardly anything we can't handle!" the KAN-SEN attempted to reassure him, patting him on the shoulder. "By the way, I like your name! And I just wanted to say... thank you for that display back there. You didn't have to do that for us, but you did anyway, and in the process, you reminded me of a very important memory that's near and dear to my heart. So thanks!" She punctuated her second thanks with a sunny smile at the silver-haired man.

Edited by darksidevoid on Apr 11th 2024 at 11:00:46 AM

Meeting Room->Outside

Before Giegue could exit, the small creature with pink hair started to almost scream, prompting him to turn toward her with an annoyed noise.

He cocked his head at her words. So basically she was taking the captain's role. Such audacity, were it not for Ulysses supporting her.

You would expect him to protest, he did say he handled military operations, but no sounds came from the alien, as he stared at Susie with his usual cold, emotionless look. Once she was finished, he floated toward the door, letting go of his ticket and having it float by his side (which might make HK-47 think the alien was using the Force) but not before turning toward Ruri.

   "As of now, there is. And Miss Susanna has been quite clear on that. Given our number and... divergences, someone has to keep the lots of us in check. Coordination is essential if we wish to succeed. Thus, a hierarchy is necessary. The quicker it is established the quicker will this mission end. And I have not seen anyone else claiming a co-ordinating role yet, aside from her."    he said to her, surprisingly taking Susie's defense, before narrowing his eyes dangerously.

   "If we were following your logic, then the most powerful of us should assume the responsibility of this mission, powerful enough to keep the others in line. Then, and that is no boast, I would likely be in charge. And if I were in charge, some of you would have ended up in a grave. Or a dump. Both in your specific case, for implied insubordination."    he dryly added.

Oh, that was why he didn't contest it. As loathe as he was to admit it, Giegue was not suited for that role, if people were not 100% loyal to him. If he did, it would have been a catastrophe. That, and he was likely taking Susie's role a bit too seriously.

   "One "idiot" to another."    Giegue finished, sarcastically bowing at Ruri. He then glanced at Susie.

   "Though I do hope for your sake that you prove as capable as you claim to be."    he still warned her before exiting the room.

Once outside, Giegue, not unlike Charlie, took this opportunity to fly in the air, away from everyone before letting out a very long sigh.

He felt sick. He still had a lot to process, to think. He also needed some time to himself. He wasn't used to dealing with so many people at once, many of them reminding him of moments he would rather forget. He would join the others, of course, but a bit later.

   What am I getting myself into?    he thought.

Edited by Scipion3 on Apr 12th 2024 at 12:34:41 PM

"Answer: Indeed. This Dark Lord of the Sith was the one who created me after the end of the Mandalorian Wars. Meatbags all those years ago would had been speaking Mandalorian if it wasnt for him stopping those crude warriors and their bloody reign of conquest. Of course, he did turn to the dark side, but as the saying goes, 'No Meatbag is perfect'."

Well, that droid's luck didn't pan out since it didn't seemed Czerka Corporation had ties with this Engi Collective. A shame, but I guess even those greedy meatbags don't have their dirty hands on their everything. Speaking of corporations, though, that mechanical droid woman who represents this 'Haltmann Company' went on to speak, seemingly wanting to take charge...in a seemingly cheerful way.

How boring. This Susie should take lessons from past Sith on how to get people to behave.

"Commentary:"A bit too sweet for my tastes, but while I may be an Assassin Droid, we are still expected to be professional due to my programming. Reassurance: As long as none of you go against Ulysses goal of this mission, you shall all not worry about the fear of a blaster bolt hitting you in the head as you're taking this...'nap' you meatbags love to do."

Cibo: Bastion (Meeting Room > Elevator Terminal)

"Oh, I see. Maybe I shouldn't have said Sillicon Creature, then. Sillicon Life is the other term, or Cyborg," Cibo smiled apologetically down at Alia. "Forgive me if I came across as demeaning. I didn't mean it. A creature is just an uncategorised being, after all. If you feel it's an insult, try considering it as a compliment instead. Someone so unique that they can't be sorted."

She chuckled—a little nervously, given the awkwardness of the situation—but did her best to look amiable depite this.

"But 'Reploid' it is. You'll have to tell me more about them later. I'm interested; they sound like Sillicon Life, but different in some ways. You're also a lot more reasonable than the Cyborgs I've met. Many of them are involved in an human extermination cult. Even so- I should stop talking."

Thankfully, Susie's declaration of leadership distracted Cibo from running her mouth any longer, and she peered at the bossy woman curiously. The Haltmann Works Company reminded her of the Bio-Electric Company that she herself had worked at. Was this what she'd been like?

Was she still like this?

She decided not to think about it too much.

"If you're going to be the leader, I don't mind, so long as you know what you're doing," Cibo remarked to Susie, turning to give a last glance down at Alia with a somewhat unreadable expression on her face, then headed towards the door. She didn't hesitate this time, striding outside and entering the building next door with the elevator terminal. She blinked as she caught Seras and Pip emerging from the wall from the meeting room, but shook it off with a shrug.

"I should find an upgrade for that," she commented.

Edited by Enirboreh on Apr 13th 2024 at 12:49:41 PM

Liam and Manon, Bastion (Meeting Room) —-> Bastion (Exterior) + Charlie

"Far from perfect...Yeah, I think that's a bit of an understatement." Liam muttered, choosing not to address the "meatbag" part of the comment for now. "But I get what you're saying, even if it does sound kind of...improbable." He made some vague gestures with his blade hands. "I guess I'm gonna have to read up on the Mandalorian Wars..." Then, something occured to him. "Hey, Boulders, do you know anything about-"

But of course, the Rockman was already gone.

"Boulders? Hello?"

"Explanation of absence: Charlie has already left this location. However, I doubt he has gone very far. He has little reason to stray significantly from this building." Manon filled him in. "If you require information from him, you will have to leave as well."

"Wait, but-" Liam started, then stopped mid-sentence as he remembered how infuriated Charlie had been. No wonder he'd wanted to leave. "Ohhh man...I really need to go talk to him. Can you wait here a moment, Manon?"

The Engi took a moment before answering.

"Affirmative."

"Great, I'll be back before you know it! Ciao!" The Mantis replied, and took off outside. As soon as he was out of sight, Manon began to move, walking slowly and subtly, not quite tip-toeing but doing his very best to avoid drawing attention. He exited the room as well, looking for someone very specific.

Meanwhile, Liam quickly found Charlie outside.

"Boulders! There you are! Are you alright?" he cried, rushing to his side.

"I'm...fine, Blades." the Rockman muttered in response, still staring absent-mindedly at the city skyline. "Sorry I ran off without telling you, I just..."

"Needed a moment?"

"You could say that."

"Man, I am so sorry, I didn't know the people here would be so-"

"Blades. It's not your fault." Charlie grunted, turning to face him and putting a hand on his shoulder. "You didn't do anything to me. You're not a racist, a fascist or a corpo. You're my friend."

"But, I shouldn't have-"

"Blades. This. Isn't. Your. Fault." Charlie interjected. "I don't want you to blame yourself for what those bastards did. You just wanted to do good. And I won't ever stop anyone trying to do that."

"Look, I am totally okay with calling off the mission if it's hurting you to be here." Liam insisted. "I don't want to do that to you just because of this!"

"We're not calling off the mission." Charlie insisted back. "I can handle this. I've dealt with worse. I just..." He paused, then let out a long sigh. "I just need some time, okay? Then I can handle it."

While the two were talking, Manon passed by both of them without a word. He approached Enterprise, tapping her on the shoulder.

"USS Enterprise. I wish to speak with you. Preferably, alone."

Edited by SushiKraken6414 on Apr 13th 2024 at 5:45:13 AM

Meeting Room -> Elevator Terminal

Rationally, Alia knew Cibo was trying to make her feel better and didn't mean anything by her comments. She should just let it go after that. Yet, much to her internal annoyance, that was easier said than done. Really, it was like the day and the people in it were trying to hammer it in that today wasn't going to be a good day.

("Just don't think about it. Focus on the mission.") She thought to herself, stepping into the elevator terminal and trying to look at anyone but Cibo. If nothing else, she wasn't the self-proclaimed assassin like the other one. The idea of trying to talk to them about differences in ideology and their construction was an exercise in futility waiting to happen.