Stormchaser Roleplaying - procyon-folly

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The crew of the Folly has been hired by their Ashen Knives Pasha friend Arlox to capture Cho-Tyrek, a badass Syndicate muscle who apparently left a job unfinished. The Ashen Knives don't like leaving jobs unfinished. Tracking a Syndicate muscle who doesn't want to be found is no easy feat, but Kas and his crew know where Cho-Tyrek is lying low. In the process, it has become clear that the Ashen Knives aren't the only ones who are looking for Cho. Several other factions, including the hegemonic Guild of Engineers and the Urbot Conclave 01, are offering bounties for him and what he holds. The Folly will not be the only crew of bounty hunters seeking the reward. The strike team skulks in the hallway of the second floor of a run-down hotel that the neon sign out front proclaims as 'Paradise'. It's cost some cred and a few twisted arms in two systems to get Cho's location, but the crew has tracked him to Warren and that sweet prize money is about to be theirs. As they prepare to kick down the door to Cho's room, the roar of a hoverbike engine starting up can be heard from an alley behind the hotel. Heavy blaster fire rips through the hallway, shredding the plaster and moving quickly towards the ambushers. It's Cho-Tyrek on a souped-up hoverbike, a tiny figure clutched to his back.

"Shit! Get down!" Kas shouts as he dives forward putting his stomach and face on the floor, hoping that the shots that seem to be blindly aimed at mid torso, will fly safely over his now prone body.

As the blaster bolts begin tearing through the hall Kovin's face shifts into a wide smile under his tattered face wrap. He had been worried that the job would be overly simple, it was good of Cho to make it a real hunt. In a quick motion he unsheathes his blade and focuses his mind cutting through the door like paper. Before re sheathing the blade and darting through the door. Throwing himself forward he tucks and rolls narrowly avoiding a blaster bolt to his chest. Seeing Cho gun his speeder. Kovin unsheathes his blade and races after the bike making his way towards the wall. Slashing hard as he reaches it, hoping to cut through and make a path to the bike. (edited)

*Soren swipes up the authenticator for the GZ-98 with disdain. "I can't believe this shit. Probably a lease-return...these things are always ridden hard with barely any upkeep. Then these companies get them, wash 'em up real nice, give 'em a wax and foist 'em on tourists who want to speed around with them and wait till someone crashes it to collect the insurance money. Rinse, repeat." But as Soren and Wyvern walk to the parking space, Soren's diatribe ceases and a smile replaces his grimace. "Oh I take it back. I take it all back. This one's a beaut. See the servos on the ailerons? And the exhaust throat? No carbon scoring. No erosion. Someone took care of this one. You can't fake that. This'll do. This'll do nicely."* *An hour later, as they pull up to Cho's building, Soren brings the elevation on the speeder up until they are at the top corner of the building overlooking the renegade's rooms. "I always get stuck with overwatch, and you all always bring them in with nary a struggle. I just wish for once--just once mind you--they'd run. Give a good chase. Maybe even get to a vehicle so I could be of some use, ya know? Get the blood pumpin'. Anyway, I--"* (edited)

Making there way to the room where the intel said the target would be, Stilo talks to himself and to the rest of the group, "I wonder what I should get with the cash? Maybe some new upgrades for the ship, or some new guns. That would be fun." They reach the door and before they break it down he hears the sound of an engine revving from the other side, "Ah shi..." as blaster fire rips though the walls of the hotel. He quickly ducks down, "F###ing S#!t! Why are we alway in the middle of f&%ing blaster fire." You can see a little smoke coming off from the tips of his fur as the blaster fire missed him.

Rolling onto his back Kas pulls one of his own blasters free, and prepares to return fire. "I take back all the bad things I ever said about runners. I'll take a damned runner any day over one that shoots back!" He moans as he searches for a line of sight to the shooter.

Spotting the opening that Kovin just recently darted through, rolling onto his stomach once more, Kas kicks off the wall his blaster out in front of him as he slides toward it opening. Skidding to a stop the scoundrel finds himself looking down the barrel of Fane, through the open door, across the room, and through a hole in the back wall to see a piece of the hovering bike. "Show me what you got brother." He thinks as he squeezes the trigger and sends a blast of white hot energy into one of the hover bike's stabilizers. "We need him alive, target the bike!"

Soren punches it, quickly lurching the the speeder forward and down, cutting off Cho's attempted escape. "We're up Wyvern!" Cho's bike clips the car, though, and starts it spinning. Soren reacts with a curse and a controlled burn along with a quick series of repulsor modulations to quickly bring the car under control, ending with the car pointing perpendicular to the bike with Wyvern's side right in front of Cho.

As the car stabilizes Wyvern takes aim with Viper. As Cho struggles to regain control of his speeder, Wyvern concentrates for but a moment before firing a low-powered blast directly at Cho's centermass.

The stun bolt catches Cho right in the chest, drawing a groan from the heavy set man. His movements grow sluggish and lethargic, but somehow he manages to get the bike back under control and guide it to the ground. Toppling sideways from the saddle, Cho stumbles to his feet. The tiny humanoid on his back still clings desperately to the Ashen Knives' muscle and neon lights cast the narrow alley in a crisscross of shadows. Cho swings his blaster around wildly, seeking his assailants as he struggles to cling to consciousness. Raising one hand to shield his eyes against the glaring light of the airspeeder's headlights, Cho looks up at Soren and Wyvern. "We can do this the hard way... or you can give me your word that you'll protect the kid and I'll come quietly," he tells them with a stony stare.

No, we can't just take a kid! What are we going to do with a kid?! We couldn't take care of a kid. How do you even do that? Our life is dangerous...not to mention the company we keep. And these guys would teach a kid all the wrong things...be a bad influence. A kid's a lot of responsibility. Too much responsibility. I'd be a terrible guardian for a kid. And who knows how long we'd even have him...Probably end up saddled with a kid forever. No. Way. "Of course we'll keep the kid safe." (edited)

As the speeder bike spins away, and more gunfire is heard from outside, Kas scrambles to his feet before sprinting down the hallway. As he approaches the top of the stairs, he grabs the banister and vaults over it, his feet slamming down on the stair treads below. With a quick spin he turns and begins descending, taking 3 stairs at a time in large leaps.

Hearing the bike accelerate away and the sound of crashing metal, Kovin looks to the stairs and sees Kas already hurtling down them. Jumping out of the newly made door Kovin flips his blade and attempts to jam into the building to slow his descent (edited)

Cho's eyes meet Soren's and he nods. Slowly, the man reaches for the small figure riding on his back and sets it down on the ground in front of him. Lit up in the headlights of the speeder, Soren and Wyvern see the creature clearly for the first time. Although disguised by a baggy hoody, it appears to be a child-like urbot. However, the moment doesn't last. From the darkness on the far side of the alley, a projectile screams through the air to strike Cho in the back. Immediately, the man is wracked by arcs of electricity that bring him to his knees. "Ara! Run!" Inside the hotel, Kas barrels around a stairwell corner into the waiting gun of an all too familiar face. Rhin Kolev. "Going somewhere, Kas?"

"Rhin, buddy, it's good to see you again!" Kas exclaims as he lifts his hands, including the one holding his blaster, making sure to show that his finger is not on the trigger. "What brings you to the neighborhood?" He innocently asks. (edited)

"Much the same as you," Rhin remarks, also easing his finger off of the trigger of his pistol, "or did you think that I wouldn't notice my ship birthed in the docks." Outside the hotel, Kovin's blade sings as it scores a deep gash in the wall, breaking the mystic's fall. However, halfway down there is a jolt and he hangs wedged in the air.

Soren's mind races as he sees the kid, puzzle pieces snapping together as he realizes the hegemonic Guild of Engineers and the Urbot Conclave 01 must be after the kid and not Cho at all. And he had just accepted responsibility for this kid. How does this always happen to me? Turning to Wyvern as he draws one of his pistols and begins to move, Soren growls "Cover me!"

"You're here to visit your grandma too?" Kas asks as he slowly holsters his blaster in the hopes of getting Rhin to do likewise. As his rival inevitably mentions his ship, Kas tenses slightly, but attempts to deflect with more fast talking. "We've been over this a couple times already Rhin. It used to be your ship, but now it's not. Now it's my ship, and I'm taking really good care of it. You really have to learn to let go and move on my friend. Look on the bright side, and embrace the fact that you got a shiny new ship!"

"Does your grandma frequent a lot of shady motels on Warren?" Rhin quips back, also lowering his gun, but keeping it in his hand. "Counter offer: I shoot you here and now and take the Cerberus and my bounty."

"Oh no, I think you misheard me. I'm here to visit your grandmother, not mine." Kas corrects him as he places a hand over his heart.

At the behest of Soren, and the possible follow-up from the sniper. Wyvern swings the door wide and starts to sprint for a nearby car. Just before he reaches it, he spots a glint of light. Reacting on instincts, he enters a jumping roll, slamming into the car, but narrowly missing the plasma burst that explodes into the pavement behind him. "Grab him now!" He yells as he quickly springs out of cover, firing off Viper in the direction of the light he saw, providing some cover for Soren.

Rhin nods slowly and flashes Rhin a greasy smile, before abruptly punching him in the face.

For a moment the plan was working perfectly as his blade cut through the side of the building slowing his descent but then his blade gets caught and all hell breaks loose. Hanging on the building's side he watches as his crew scrambles out of the way of the Sniper and their bounty nearly get taken out. Kovin eyes rake over the area looking for the Sniper and any other hostiles.

The patter of boots on asphalt echoes from behind Kovin and he realises that somebody is coming up the alley from the other direction to cut them off!

As Soren scrambles over the passenger seat and leaps onto the pavement, blaster fire lights up the ground between Soren and the urbot, cutting him off, but revealing the sniper's position to his keen eye. Soren snaps his pistol up and shooted directly at the barrel of the sniper's gun, managing to clip it and forcing the sniper into cover. He grabs the kid, scooping him up onto his back and hops onto the speeder to rocket away from the gun fight as he takes one more tricky shot, directly at the taser on Cho's back.

"I did kind or deserve that." Kas thinks as his head snaps back from the blow. "Ow, son of a bitch..." He hisses as he brings a hand up to his eye. "That's no way to treat your possible future step grandpa. You're supposed to respect your grandparents, not punch them! That does it young man, you're not getting a birthday card this year." Kas continues as he uses the distraction to subtly place his hand on the butt of his blaster once more.

The blaster discharges with a flash and the capacitor attached to Cho's back fizzles and sparks. The man grunts in pain and sways, clearly on his last legs.

With one hand on his blade Kovin activates his commlink. "We got more company coming, squad moving in behind us to cut off our escape. We should get the target airborne and ghost. I'm in route to assist" Pushing out with his feet against the wall he attempts to free his blade and flip to the ground.

"Anytime Kovin! Cho's looking worse for wear and Soren's run off with a small urbot." Wyvern yells over the comms before he pops out of cover, using Soren's earlier shot to pinpoint the sniper's position. "There you are" he thinks to himself as he fires another round at the target, clipping his shoulder and sending him down. "Target hit, grab Cho and lets gett out of here!". He shouts in Kovin's direction as he continues to keep a bead on the sniper. (edited)

"You never did know when to shut up, Kas," Rhin sneers, grabbing his rival by the shoulders and yanking him forwards to knee him in the stomach. Meanwhile, in the alley out the back of the hotel, Kovin hits the ground with a thump that knocks the wind from him for a moment. (edited)

Shooting out of the alley, Soren begins to head towards the parked ship to confirm to any of the watching mercenaries that that must be his intended destination. But of course, it is not. Now to be sure no one is tailing us. Ducking and weaving through the streets like only a professional racer could do on a pleasantly nimble bike, Soren attempts to put enough distance and intervening buildings between him and any pursuers that they would lose him in the city and he could make his next move.

The streets of Warren are busy and tightly packed. A cacophony of yells and screams blares as Soren slaloms between pedestrians, before pulling up above their heads. On the rooftops either side of him, he sees two other hoverbikes pull level in pursuit. (edited)

Kas doubles over coughing, but quickly recovers enough to look up at Rhin and gasp out a reply. "And you...gasp never learned cough to pay attention inhale to your surroundings." Half bent over, he uses his body as to shield his right hand as he slips his blaster from it's holster and shoots his rival in the foot. It's not fair, or particularly flashy, but it should hopefully slow him down enough to let Kas get out of the building alive.

Kovin crashes into the ground and a loud grunt echoes out as his breath is knocked out of him. Jumping to his feet he takes a deep breath and attempts to focus his mind. Gathering his energy and forcing his mind to focus on the hunt and shake himself out of the slump he found himself in this mission. Seeing Wyvern is keeping the Sniper busy, Kovin rockets forward towards Cho his blade held low. Preparing to slam the butt of his hilt against the man's head and drag him into the speeder. (edited)

Kovin hurries to Cho's side, but the boots coming up the alley behind him are hot on his tail. The man looks like he can barely stand and, as promised, doesn't resist as Kovin hustles him into the car. Kas's blaster goes off with crack and Rhin yells in pain, turning to fire a shot off after the scoundrel as he dashes away.

Still fighting to catch his breath Kas bounces back and forth between the walls of the hallway, not because he's attempting to avoid the blaster fire, but because he's having trouble seeing. Between the stress of his interactions with his rival and the physical wounds he's been inflicted with, he can barely focus past the tears that well up in his eyes. Thoughts of his family back home, of how much they need him to survive and send credits home, are the only things that propel him forward through the pain.

Soren sees the two other bikes, and despite his best efforts, they appear to be staying within sight. Changing tactics, he pulls his other pistol, this one on his left hip, and hands it back to the urbot. "You know how to handle this? When I give the signal, you take the one on the left." Soren then pulls his right pistol out, and starts to let the bikes catch up to him before slamming on the air-brakes, adaptive ailerons flaring out to catch the wind. As the bikes fly past him, he shouts "Now!" and lets loose a barrage at the rider of the bike on the right.

Ara inspects cautiously takes the blaster pistol and inspects it carefully, before silently nodding. As Soren hits the brakes, the urbot also opens fire.

Stilo crouching from the gunfire with pistol in hand, starts to run out the building as firing stops. His short legs quickly leaves him lagging behind the rest, "Goddamn stubby legs." He puts the pistol in his mouth and goes down on all four and mumbles "Fug dish shi. Gum on Grook'". He follows the crew out and hitches a ride over to Cho.

19:33

Stilo yells out to Kovin, "Make room, I'm coming in!" The furry xeno rushes into the car and squeezes himself into a spot. "Drive!"

Soren's pursuers jerk and spasm as the hail of blaster fire from both sides pummels each of them in the back with devastating effect. One hoverbike spirals out of control, before colliding with a store front in a fiery explosion. The other hits the street below with an almighty crash and a horrific screeching of metal. The rider is smeared across several meters of asphalt. Civilians in every direction scream and run for their lives.

Soon as Stilo and Kaz rush past him, Wyvern grabs a large nearby dumpster. He turns it at an angle before giving it a powerful kick, sending it crashing into the walls of the ally, blocking their pursuers. "Outta the way furball!" He yells as Stilo as he hops into the driver's seat and begins to lift the speeder into the air. He manges to pull the speeder car up out of the ally as A hail of blaster fire whizzes past them. "Anyone see Soren or Kas?!" Wyvern exclaims as he ducks and weaves through the city. (edited)

The synthesized staccato beat filled his ears as the throbbing bass shook his body, but his eyes were filled with her rhythmic undulations while her sweet, fruity scent intoxicated his mind. As she spun and pressed her back against his front, the dance floor seemed to be there's alone even though bodies crowded all around. "Let's get out of here, she purred into his ear."* *The tiny 2-room apartment she took him back to wasn't much, but it was bigger than his bunk on the ship, and neater to boot, with a tiny succulent on the bare-steel chest of drawers next to the bed. Well, until they knocked that over, at least. In the morning, when Soren finally opened his eyes after his late night, her bright blue hair fanned across his trim torso, and her sheets lay fanned across the floor. "Awake finally?" she asked. "When do you have to leave?" Soren reached down and picked up the green plant in it's white ceramic pot from the duracrete floor, replacing it to it's perch next to the bed. Now. Sorry. We've got a job, and, with any luck, Kovin or Kas--those are part of my crew--should have the intel we need. We'll have to leave right away, but, I expect we'll be back to this system before too long...would you be...what would you think about me dropping by the next time I'm in town?" Sitting up, she flipped her hair back over her shoulder with her left arm, her right clutching the corner of the sheet she had somehow held onto across her chest. "Any time," she said with a grin reaching all the way up to the silver rings at the corners of her chocolate brown eyes.

08:15

After ditching the bike a block away in an alley behind a bakery, Soren stood silently in the tiny lift next to his urbot companion. Well, his new urbot companion. The light flickered above his head as the car clicked and clacked past the lower floors. "Why do they want you anyway kid?" But before the child could answer, the doors to the lift opened, and there she was--laundry bag on her hip, blue hair in a ponytail, and cigarette in her lips; a surprised and questioning look on her face. "Hey Stella. I can explain." (edited)

Ara pulls the hoody tighter to conceal their synthetic nature, earning them a penetrating stare from Stella. "Soren, who is this?" Outside, Wyvern guides the speeder over the packed streets of Warren with blinding speed, but the growing whine of incoming repulsors confirms that they aren't out of the frying pan just yet.

"They're..." Soren pauses and steps in front of the urbot protectively. "They're my responsibility. Can we use your place for a few hours? We just need to lay low for a while. No one's following us. I made sure of that."

"If nobody's following you, then why do you need to lay low?" Stella challenges, one eyebrow arched in doubt.

"Well, I don't know if the rest of my crew was so lucky, and I don't know if my ship's been compromised. Plus," Soren tries on his most ingratiating smile, "I missed you." I wish Wyvern were here. He always knows what to say to a woman. (edited)

A smile touches the corners of Stella's mouth in spite of herself and she walks a few steps up the corridor, before opening the door to her apartment. "I want you gone by morning - but I suppose you don't need any encouragement on that front."

"You're the best. You won't regret this."

Entering the apartment, Soren motions to the tiny table next to the kitchen counter. "So what's your story kid?". Sitting down himself, Soren unzips his satchel and pulls out a leather cylinder tied with rawhide cord. Undoing the knot, he unrolls the leather revealing a kit of beautiful tools. Pulling a headset from the kit and putting it on, Soren mumbles to himself "I wonder what sort of range this thing has." Holding up his finger to pause the kid's response, Soren keys on the integrated transmitter, saying, "hey good buddy, do you copy?" (edited)

A distorted voice rattles in Soren's earpiece. Clearly Qwert's, but the signal is too choppy to understand what he's saying. The pilot's communicator begins to vibrate in his pocket.

Soren seems to weigh the risk of picking up the communicator, but, after a moment's hesitation, he answers the call. "Buddy's Pizza. You wish, we dish. May I take your order?"

"Very droll, Soren," Qwert quips back. "Did the job go well, or are you in need of assistance?"

"It did not go well. Have you noticed anybody lurking about the ship?"

"As it happens, there are some unsavoury looking types lurking near the docking bay doors. Are you going to get shot again?" Qwert inquires with genuine curiosity. (edited)

"That...that doesn't even count," Soren grumbles, rubbing his side where some jerk shot him when he was trying to arrange a perfectly honorable duel. "Well, do you think you can get the ship airborne on your own and get it out of there? Or maybe call the watch on those guys...maybe they're harassing some kids or dealing illegal drugs or something. Anyway, get the ship and them away from each other and then call me back when you're done."

"I could, Soren, but I imagine that Kas and the others might want the Folly to actually be here when they come in hot. Should I call Arlox?" Meanwhile, a sudden barrage of heavy blaster fire lights up the the rear of the airspeeder that Wyvern and the others are flying, making the engine whine and sputter.

"Yeah, ok, good point about the ship. But I don't know what calling Arlox is going to do. Well, get the ship ready for take-off, and don't wait for me. Take off when everyone else gets back. And when that happens, call me. I don't know if this line is compromised, so I don't want to say anything more yet. Take care, buddy."

Unslinging his rifle Kovin stares down the weapons barrel attempting to line up a shot on the speeder to the right. As he aims he yells "Got a plan fellas, Stilo take the one on the left. Hit it if you can, but the goal is to put as much blaster fire between us and the speeder as possible. Hopefully it will make em get nervous, and lose focus on us. Wyvern when we start blasting, you try and get us out of sight. Duck down an alley way, gain some altitude, whatever it takes to get us off their radar." Tensing his finger on the trigger he yells "Sound good?"

"Shoot the guys chasing us? Don't need to tell me twice." As he scrambled his way into the speeder his pistol dropped onto the floor of the speeder, "Grook! Pistol!" The little arboreal monkey shimmies down into space between the chairs and retrieves the pistol, handing it directly into Stilo's hands, "Thanks Grookey." He takes aim at the speeder on the left and fires, "Eat hot plasma!"

"Already ahead of you!" Wyvern shouts out as he dips down into nearby alley as the rest of the crew blasts at their pursuers. "Hold on, going to try something. Probably stupid, but should get us away." he says as he throws the throttle to max, speeding down the alley at a blinding speed. The light of a busy street quickly comes upon them as the chase continues down the narrow corridor. "3...2...1..." Wyvern deftly throws the throttle back, engages the braking thrusters, and pulls the speeder with a hard turn. The craft slides in the air, now horizontally with the alleyway, before the driver engages the thrusters and sends the speeder blasting forward. After a little distance, Wyvern pulls up and out of the street and back into another alleyway, now at a more, casual speed, so as to not arouse suspicion. "Well that was...fun... Let's head back to the ship. Hopefully Soren and Kas made it back."

When Kovin, Stilo and Wyvern arrive at the Folly's docking bay, they find a menacing crew of thugs openly loitering in front of the doors. Strangely, they look like local colour, rather than bounty hunters.

"Ok kid, for real this time. What's going on?"

Stilo looks at the menacing group and recognizes one of the characters tattooed face. He has a memory from back at Jerec's junkyard. He lowers himself as he says to the group quietly, "Hey I think those guys are Ashen Knives, I recognize one of their faces from a past run in with them." He remembers that goon and his lackeys harassing Jerec to fix their ship and get them some new parts for a "discount". He remembers staying hidden in a rundown cruiser nearby while the altercation took place but he doesn't know for sure if he'd recognize him again. (edited)

Rick [LE-X21 | Kato | Wulfhelm]

"Ok kid, for real this time. What's going on?"

Ara is sat on the floor with their arms around their knees, their face still shrouded in the shadows of their hood. The Urbot glances up at Soren when addressed. "Don't you know?" Ara asks in surprise. "Isn't that why you're here? Why you were chasing Cho?"

"Cho skipped out on a contract...I'm guessing because of you...and they sent us to bring him in. But that's all I know. But right now I'm here to protect you. That's what I said I'd do, so that's what I'm flaming going to do. But I'd like to know why."

Kovin nods and quietly says "Looks like we may get paid early. Keep the target in the trunk for now, I'm going to make sure everything is on the up and up with our friends." Sauntering over his rifle slung and his blade secure in his holster on his back Kovin eyes rove over the crowd looking for the one in charge "glad to see a friendly face, but what brings the Ashen Knives to our door?" .

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Kovin nods and quietly says "Looks like we may get paid early. Keep the target in the trunk for now, I'm going to make sure everything is on the up and up with our friends." Sauntering over his rifle slung and his blade secure in his holster on his back Kovin eyes rove over the crowd looking for the one in charge "glad to see a friendly face, but what brings the Ashen Knives to our door?" .

Amongst the assembled muscle, one man obviously commands authority from the rest. Tall and heavily built with a bushy moustache and receding grey hair, his right eye is emblazoned with the vertical line of an old scar. "The boss said to set up and discourage any competition waiting outside your ship," he snarls back at Kovin with a scowl. "Apparently you're too afraid to finish the job yourselves."

Rick [LE-X21 | Kato | Wulfhelm]

"Cho skipped out on a contract...I'm guessing because of you...and they sent us to bring him in. But that's all I know. But right now I'm here to protect you. That's what I said I'd do, so that's what I'm flaming going to do. But I'd like to know why."

"The 'contract' was to destroy me and Cho wouldn't do it," Ara corrects. "His assassin's code forbids him to harm a child. That's what he says I am. A child. Urbots don't have children though, do they?" Ara stares at Soren for a few long moments. "What are you going to do with me?"

"I already told you. I'm going to protect you. What do you want me to do with you?" Soren pauses a second and then continues before Ara responds. "And why was he supposed to kill you?" (edited)

"Keep me away from the guild," Ara all but begs. The answer comes surprisingly quickly. "Cho said that they hired the Ashen Knives to make sure that I was destroyed."

"Wait slow down. The Guild of Engineers? Yeah ok. But Conclave 01 is after you too from what I hear. Do they want you to protect you maybe? If so, we should try to get you to them...at least if that's ok with you. Do you know anything about that?"

"Conclave 01?" Ara queries without recognition. "I don't know them. Surely you work for somebody who wants something out of this? Why are you asking me what I want?"

"They're urbots. Independent ones. I was thinking maybe they want to make sure you don't get hurt, but I don't know them that well. But Qwert might. Qwert's my urbot friend...helps with the ship.". Soren sighs, leaning back in the chair and putting his boots up on the table. "And I'm asking you what you want, kid, because you're not just a thing. I'm guessing I do work for someone who wants something out of this, but unless you're a danger or a criminal, I don't care a wit about what my employer wants. Although if they don't find out that...that would be better than if they do. So....what do we do about this..." Soren closes his eyes in thought, head back in a cradle made of his crossed fingers, feet still on the table.

Adopting a smirk at the big man's bluster Kovin says "Well some of us get paid to experience the thrill of the hunt. And some of us are told to baby sit an empty ship." Shrugging Kovin pointedly looks around the docking bay before leaning in to the thug and saying "Easy to see who the boss truly appreciates. But it looks like the sitters did alright." Leaning back he says in a louder more authoritative voice "Seriously though we appreciate it, but now we are off to see your boss." and waves to Stilo and Wyvern and begins heading towards the Folly.

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Adopting a smirk at the big man's bluster Kovin says "Well some of us get paid to experience the thrill of the hunt. And some of us are told to baby sit an empty ship." Shrugging Kovin pointedly looks around the docking bay before leaning in to the thug and saying "Easy to see who the boss truly appreciates. But it looks like the sitters did alright." Leaning back he says in a louder more authoritative voice "Seriously though we appreciate it, but now we are off to see your boss." and waves to Stilo and Wyvern and begins heading towards the Folly.

Solomon's eyes narrow at Kovin. "You best watch yourself, mystic," he growls, "your sorcerer's ways don't frighten me." He stares Kovin in the eyes for a long moment, before nodding to his gang. "Come on, lads. Job's done."

Rick [LE-X21 | Kato | Wulfhelm]

"They're urbots. Independent ones. I was thinking maybe they want to make sure you don't get hurt, but I don't know them that well. But Qwert might. Qwert's my urbot friend...helps with the ship.". Soren sighs, leaning back in the chair and putting his boots up on the table. "And I'm asking you what you want, kid, because you're not just a thing. I'm guessing I do work for someone who wants something out of this, but unless you're a danger or a criminal, I don't care a wit about what my employer wants. Although if they don't find out that...that would be better than if they do. So....what do we do about this..." Soren closes his eyes in thought, head back in a cradle made of his crossed fingers, feet still on the table.

Ara stares pensively at the opposite wall, contemplating Soren's question. "Can I meet your friend, Qwert? I'd like to hear more about the Conclave." Stella flounces past as they talk, brushing Soren's boots from her table.

Soren stares appreciatively as Stella walks by, his head snapping back to Ara after a moment. "Qwert? Yeah, sure. Actually, we should check in on him," Soren says as he pulls his communicator back out and pings Qwert.

"Arlox is informed and pre-flight is in progress. What is it, Soren?"

Kovin says nothing as Solomon walks past, simply raising the tattered piece of cloth to once again cover his face. Looking back to the crew he says "Bring him up to the ship and let's get the hell off this planet. Anyone heard from Soren?"

"Wait what? You called Arlox? Do you even listen to me?" Soren sighs audibly. "OK, I'm going to put you on with a new...friend of mine. They have a question or two for you. And let me know when the guys get back." (edited)

Soren hands Ara the communicator and they exchange a few words, before the little urbot finally passes it back. "Take me to your ship," they tell Soren with conviction.

Soren's languid smile vanishes and his eyes harden. Standing up and looking at Ara, he says, "alright." His countenance softens and the smile returns to just the corner of his mouth as he takes out a pair of cigars from his pocket, Soren places them on the table. "Stella, you have been too kind. I save these for when the job is done and I get to celebrate. Hold onto them for me, will you?"

Stella steps up to table and twirls the cigars between her fingers, holding Soren's gaze with a fierce stare. "Is that it? What, am I just another dive bar to you now?" (edited)

Soren raises one eyebrow and the smirk on his face grows. "I don't think you realize the commitment I just made. This morning did you even think you'd see me again? Just a dive bar," he snorts. "Those are my good luck charm, darlin'. I don't hand those out willy nilly. And I've never shared 'em with anyone who's not part of my crew before."

"I bet that's what you tell all the girls," Stella mocks, barely a gap between then as she looks up at Soren. She pecks him briefly on the lips and then turns on her heel. "Get out of here, fly-boy," she tells him with a grin as she pockets the cigars.

"But I don't..." Soren mumbles to himself as he leaves the apartment with Ara. On the elevator ride down, Soren turns to Ara and asks, "Were you programmed to understand women? I wish I was. Kovin seems like he was. He always knows the perfect thing to say. Anyway, we'll get you to the ship nice and easy. Hopefully those goons have stopped looking for you. But in case they haven't, I want you to wear this," Soren says, as he holds out a flight cap with respirators and goggles. He also strips his outer shirt off and says, "And let's swap your hoodie for my shirt."

With the rough looking Ashen Knives moving off Kovin's name is hissed out from among some crates pilled up around the ship in the next berth. "Kove! Li'l help here bud?" Following shortly after by the sight of Kas limping into sight, his arms clutched to his right side and his left eye black and swollen. (edited)

"Soren? Nope, was too busy getting shot at driving to contac---" Wyvern is interrupted by the cry of Kas behind some nearby crates. "Son of a... Kas what happened to you?!" Wyvern pulls him up off the crate, supporting him against his arm.

"Rhin happened." The Captain wheezes out as he looks around. "I'll fill you in later, you get Cho?" "Please tell me I didn't get shot for fucking nothing."

Stilo walks up behind Wyvern seeing the beat up Kas, "Yeesh, hope the other guy looks worse." As he says that the tiny xeno Grookey makes a shocked face at seeing Kas's black eye. The small monkey-like creature grabs a cold piece of metal and climbs unto Kas's shoulder placing the metal on the wound. "A for effort Grook, but at least use a proper ice pack."

Soren and Ara make their way back to the ship using public transportation and greet everyone. "Time to fly!"

Kas shrugs in responce to Stilo's question. "Pretty sure he's going to need a new boot at the least, maybe even a foot." As Soren arrives with the Bot he once more inquires about their target. "So you got a new toy, but did we get our man?"

"Let me go get him outta the speeder, had to make sure that group back there wasn't also after him" Wyvern says as he stands back up, pointing towards the group of Ashen Knives as they make their way out of the hangar. The towering man heads to the speeder, opening the door, and slinging the worse for wear Cho, onto his shoulder. "Lets go get paid." he gives the knives one last look before entering the Procyon Folly.

"I need a damned drink." Kas rumbles as he limps his way back on to the ship as well. "Let's get the hell out of here."

Soren sees the Ashen Knives for the first time and casually puts himself between Ara and the group, walking right by Kas and whispers in passing, "get the crew inside now." Continuing to the ship, Soren says aloud, "sorry. Stopped off to pick up some cigars." (edited)

Kas arches an eyebrow as he turns to scan the landing pad. Seeing no immediate threat, but reading the worry still present in the pilot's voice he shouts louder. "Button it up boy's! Let's get clear of atmo ASAP!."

As soon as Wyvern has set Cho down, Ara hurries to his side. The man's breathing is ragged, but he's alive. "What did you do to him?" They demand, voice tinged with fear and concern.

"Kept him, that's what." Wyvern says with a stern, yet confused look at the small urbot. "The other hunters seemed more inclined to kill him, rather than let us capture him." He then looks at Soren "Is this urbot the reason you dipped out so quickly and without grabbing Cho first?"

Sealing the door behind the crew Kovin follows in behind the crew. Hearing Wyvern's question he looks over to Soren, unwrapping the tattered strips of cloth that cover his face "Only two things that I know of that would take Soren off a hunt. And the Urbot is no beauty, so it must be worth something.We given it to the Knives?" (edited)

Soren ignores their questions as he hurries to the cockpit and takes the controls from Qwert. "Qwert, go back and keep Ara safe." With a look of determination on his face, Soren pulls the craft out of its docking bay, and heads to orbit. (edited)

"Who the hell is Ara?" Kas asks as he fulfills his own request and pulls a beer from the small dorm fridge he keeps in his quarters, pausing to press it to his swollen eye before opening it. (edited)

The Folly rattles as Soren guides her out of the docking bay and into the sky, but the ship goes unchallenged.

Confusion evident in his face Kovin turns to Cho and hefts the man to his feat. Looking to Kas he asks "Should I put the Urbot in the brig with him? Can't tell if Soren found a stray or if the tin can is part of the bounty."

Stilo in the corner with a screwdriver in hand poking into his blaster looks up at Kovin holding up Cho, "I vote we keep them separated." Stilo takes the screwdriver out of the blaster and points with it towards Cho and the urbot, "We need info and best we dont let them think of a plan together."

Ara looks over at Soren and Qwert in shock. "You... you said that you were going to protect me. You lied." Despair tinges the Urbot's tone. (edited)

Kas pulls the cool can of beer from his face and cracks it open as he moves out into the hold. "Get Cho locked up. We'll see about getting a doc to look at his injuries as soon as we can, but he's too damned dangerous to have running around." He offers to Kovin before crouching down to address the Urbot. "I'm Kas, the Captain of this bucket of bolts, and I'm guessing you're Ara? Based on what little I'm getting from my crew, I'm assuming you're somehow associated with Cho. Care to tell me about that?"

Soren twists around from the noisy cockpit, removing his headphones, barely hearing Ara shout out. "What!? Is someone back there giving you a problem. If one of you is messing with Ara, you are going to get my boot so far up your ass you'll be tasting rubber for days! Don't make me come back there!"

Ara glances about in confusion, but seems somewhat reassured by the change of tone. "My name is Ara-ini and Cho-Tyrek is a good man," the Urbot tell Kas with conviction. "He was sent by the Ashen Knives to destroy me, but his assassin's code forbade him from harming a child, which is what he tells me I am. Cho was there for me when nobody else was. Please don't hurt him."

"It's nice to meet ya Ara." Kas says as he flops fully onto the floor and leaning back to place his back against a bulkhead. "Now I realize we just met, so my word probably doesn't mean squat to you... But I'm going to give it to you anyway. We were hired to capture Cho, not kill him. So as long as he behaves, and doesn't do anything stupid, I give you my word that no more harm will come to him. You can help me with that by telling us about yourself, deal?" Kas finishes as he offers the little bot his hand.

Ara tentatively takes Kas by the hand, but merely holds it, seemingly uncertain what exactly to do with the appendage. "That's good, I suppose. What do you want to know?"

Kas smiles as he gently lifts and then lowers his hand in a shaking motion, repeating it once more before releasing the tiny hand. "Well I suppose we should start with the big question. Why do the Ashen Knives want you destroyed?"

"Cho told me that the guild hired them to have it done," Ara explains, slowly withdrawing their hand.

"Ok, so why does the Guild want you destroyed?" Kas asks as he takes a pull off his beer and then once more holds the can to his eye. "You some kind of new prototype or something?"

"I-I don't know," Ara stammers in return. "There's so many things that I don't know. I don't even know where I come from or what I'm supposed to be doing."

Kas nods, that wasn't the answer he'd been hoping for, but it was the one he'd expected. "Can you tell us where Cho found you? Maybe we can back track from there." Turning his attention from the little bot he calls out to the crew. "Stilo, you know anything about these guys? Do they have some kind of history or tracking we can look at? Like a serial number maybe?"

"T-the Lock Luna," Ara stammers again, clearly rattled by the entire experience.

Stilo looks at Kas, "I ain't no expert on Ur tech, not enough exposure outside our little friend here." he shakes his head pointing to Qwert. He follows up, "I can tell you that their tech is beyond what we can do. Most of what we get is salvage from ruins. My best guess as to why this guy is targeted has to do with where his core was found. Maybe there is some secret hiding in it." (edited)

Qwert waddles back from the cockpit to join the others. "Ara is it? I am QW42IHWgfwr7WR, but you may call me 'Qwert.' Everyone else does. I hope you can help us get to the bottom of this mess. These biologics are a pretty dependable lot. I can't say the same for others of their kind. They don't always see beings like you and I as, well, beings. More like appliances. But this group is good people. And if Soren gave you his word, well, the others might joke about his flightiness, and he may not believe it himself, but he'd take more than one plasma bolt for a kid, and more than several for someone he'd sworn to protect. You're both as far as he's concerned, so, you might just be in the safest spot you can be right now. Anyway, you just let me know if you need anything. If you don't, I'll be up front with Soren making sure we aren't disturbed by anyone. And making sure he doesn't destroy the ship. He can really push it to it's limits sometimes...."

Stilo still tinkering with his blaster, "Qwert's right kid. Trust me there aren't many safe places out there, and if Cap said your protected then you got nothing to fear as long as you stay close." Stilo clicks his tongue and Grookey climbs up to his shoulders, "If you ever need anything Grookey here can probably give you a hand, or get any of the crew to come to ya. Just try not to interrupt when I'm playing with something dangerous."

Qwert climbs into the chair next to Soren, and flips a few switches, studying the readouts on the screen. "Soren...this...this isn't..." Soren, keeping his head straight forward, face completely neutral except for a tightness around his eyes, stares out into the blackness of space then swivels his eyes over to Qwert and then back forward again. "No Qwert. No it's not." "But then where--" "Not there. I don't think we can trust them anymore." "But then how will we get paid? And, moreover, what'd Kas say when you told him?" Swiveling his eyes over to Qwert, then back again, Soren remains silent. Qwert looks back out of the cockpit towards the crew, then back over again at Soren. "Oh. Is he going to be mad?" "We'll pass that checkpoint when we come to it. For now," Soren says, flicking a switch on the console, "let's listen to some tunes and think." "Don't hurt yourself." (edited)

"Lock Luna, got it, and thanks for the info." "Hell of a lot of good it's going to do us, but at least we know a little more than we did 5 minutes ago." Kas thinks as he finishes his beer. With a grunt he pushes off the bulkhead and climbs slowly to his feet. "I'm going to go lay down, see if I can't get some shut eye and let these ribs heal up a little. Someone wake me up when Cho comes around, we'll definitely want to ask him some questions before we decide what to do with him."

The engines whine softly in the background and it becomes apparent that the ship is leaving orbit, despite Arlox and the crew's pay day waiting on the moon below.

Kovin shakes his head as he feels the strain of the ship accelerating to leave atmosphere. Groaning as he chucks Cho into a cell, this was going to get ugly. The blades knew we have Cho, and probably know that we are rocketing out of town. Making his way back to the rest of the crew, Kovin gruffly yells out "Soren enough of this mystery BS. What have you gotten us into?" (edited)

Without taking his eyes off his instruments and the front viewport, Soren yells back, "Ain't no secret, Kove. I'm gettin' us all out of this mess. Proposition one: Ashen Knives got hired to kill Ara. Proposition two: The Engineering Consortium is trying to kill Ara. Proposition three: We have Ara. Conclusion: they'll be after us too. I'm bettin' the Conclave will have the means and the motive to keep Ara safe and out of our hands, thereby freeing us from that unfortunate conclusion. Q. E. Fuckin' D."

A weary groan can be heard from the rear of the ship, where Cho is slumped in the brig. He seems to be stirring.

His voice practically dripping with sarcasm "Sorry Soren I must have missed your promotion, didnt know you were calling the shots now." Shaking his head, his voice back to a normal tone "the knives sent us after Cho for not doing his job and he was part of their crew. We may be friendly with em now but they'll slit our throats for this whether we got the urbot or not. They ain't gonna let this go, we'll have prices on our heads." Nodding his head back to the stirring Cho, keeping his voice quiet enough to not alert the urbot or Cho"engineering guild wanting our heads is enough action for me. My votes to get as much intel as we can off sleeping beauty and find away to get him to the knives without us getting gutted"

"We weren't hired to get the kid. If the Ashen Knives wanted us to bring them the kid, or kill the kid, they should have hired us for that." And eaten a blaster bolt for trying to. "Anyway, I know I ain't the captain. I'll follow any command the captain gives. 'Long as I agree with it. I'm sure I will. Captain's a sensible and wise man. I'm sure he doesn't want the kid to die. Ain't that right cap'n?"

"I didn't say nothing bout the bot. Your right it wasn't our job, but Cho is. I'm not sayin to give up the kid, urbot or not that doesn't sit right with me. But best believe I would put Cho on the first thing smokin to keep the heat off our backs. The chump was muscle for the knives sure he's earned whatevers coming his way"

"I got no problems with that. But we can't show up to Ashen Knives with the kid in tow. We're just makin' a detour."

Wyvern sits on his hammock and fiddles with his rifle, Fafnir, occasionally giving a glace at the brig. He had set his equipment nearby the Folly's cells as soon as he was hired on. "Our targets will think twice about escaping if I'm within sight of them" the tall and rough man had said to the crew that day. "Seems like Soren's listening to his emotions again, eh Stilo?" He jokingly says to the small and furry engineer. Although he was still a tad frustrated with Soren for leaving the target and running off with who knew what at the time. (edited)

Still stiff from being crammed unconscious into the back of a speeder, Cho pushes himself up into a sitting position against the rear wall of his cell and rubs his bald head with the ball one hand. "Where am I?"

Stilo begins to hit his blaster with his fist which was clearly an effort to fix it as he looks over to Wyvern, "Seems like that's a common problem with humans. I don't care what we do about the kid, but we definitely have to get rid of Cho before we have more goons on our tail." He hears rustling in the brig from Cho waking, "Speak of the devil, looks like our guest of honor is up from his nap. Who's gonna take care of him?"

Drawn from his restless sleep by the sound of voices, Kas wanders out from his cabin and makes his way to the Brig to speak with their captive. "Morning Cho, you look about as good as I feel. You willing to answer some questions for us?"

"Do I have a choice?" Cho quips back, his tone flat and emotionless.

"Of course you do. We'd be more than happy to turn you in for the payment we've been promised, should you decide not to." Kas answers with a shrug as he turns toward the door.

"Hey," the assassin calls after Kas, "where's the kid?"

"What kid?" Kas answers as he turns back toward the bounty hunter. "You mean that Urbot that was with you?"

Cho glances at the floor, crinkling his eyebrow and scratching at it, before looking back up at Kas. "Sure as hell look and sound like a kid, don't they? What happened to them?"

"They sure do." Kas acknowledges with a nod. "So why do the Guild want it dead?"

"So they're here," Cho reads, visibly relaxing. "Where are we? On a ship? The Guild wants to destroy anything that might suggest that their Urbot 'assets' are anything more than tools."

The thrum of the engines and the bulkheads would give away any deception, so Kas nods as the other asks about their location."What's so special about this one that they're going to this much trouble over it? It must be worth a lot if they not only hired you to find it, but also got the Knives all up your ass for not destroying it like ordered."

"You ever seen an Urbot kid before?" Cho challenges. "I've been doing this job for more than 20 years and I sure haven't. Ara's smart too. They're learning. Half the time they could pass for human. Try telling people that something like that is just property."

"That makes sense, I can't say I've ever seen one myself." Kas replies with a nod. "So that leads us to the next question. What the hell are we going to do with you? The knives are hell bent on punishing you for not finishing the job they hired you to do. Which means, that if we don't turn you over to them, we'll be in the same boat."

Cho shrugs. "Maybe I gave you some trouble." He stands and slowly approaches the entrance to the cell until his face is right in front of it. "Almost blew your friend's head off and you had to space me."

"I'll take that under advisement when I talk to my crew. In the mean time sit tight and I'll see if I can't scrounge up an unexpired MRE for you." Kas drawls before leaving the room, to fill the rest of the crew in on the new information. "...so we know a little bit more, but all that really does is tell us how little we really do know. Either way, we need to do something with Cho before we do anything else. Personally, I'm down for dumping him on some backwater and reporting back we had to space him, but I'm definitely open to other ideas."

"Let's just leave him with the Conclave. Kill two birds with one stone, and he can be their problem. Then we just tell the Knives whatever you want." (edited)

Shaking his head "We don't owe Cho nothing, my votes to find a way to get him back with the Knives without putting the tin can at risk. The Ashen Knives aren't stupid, we tell em we spaced him and their first question is why the hell were you in space in the first place." fiddling with the hilt of his blade he adds "Cho's been muscle for the Knives, he ain't a saint. It's not like he hasn't earned what he has coming."

Wyvern sets his rifle down before hunching over in his seat. He rests his elbows on his knees and clasps his hands before speaking. "It wouldn't be a good idea to double cross the Knives... From personal experience, their assassins are difficult to evade, and even harder to deal with. We should finish "our" job" he then looks at Soren. "Which said nothing about a small urbot. We can bring the "kid" to the Conclave once Cho is in the hands of the Knives and our job finished." (edited)

"If we bring the kid with us to the knives, they are going to kill her. I'm not letting that happen. So come up with a better plan."

"No one said we had to bring her with us when we deliver Cho." Wyvern says, musing Soren's want to call the urbot by a specifc gender. (edited)

Sighing "Why don't you drop us on the ground, we'll turn in Cho. And you can keep the bot in the sky until we're done." (edited)

Frowning a bit, but with a shrug conceding the point, Soren says "Kas?"

Kas listens as the others share their thoughts. As the ball is kicked back his way he rubs his forehead for a moment before answering. "Cho has the potential to be a pretty powerful ally, but only if he's still breathing. Alternatively, they Ashen Knives can be just as useful to us, if not more so, since they're a whole group. Now, that being said, Cho's a tough son of a bitch who may just get away from the Knives with his life intact. If that happens, and we're the ones who turned him in, you can bet he'll be coming after us. Is that worse than the Knives coming after us?" The Captain asks as he look around, meeting the eye of each crew member before shrugging his shoulders, the leather of his jacket creaking as he does so. "Hell if I know, but what I do know is that we weren't hired to bring the bot in, so we're not bringing it no matter what we do with Cho." Sighing, Kas leans back and covers his eyes with his hands for a moment, drowning out the light as he thinks on the implications of their decision. "None of us have ever claimed to be hero's or even all that honorable, least of all myself. Cho's right up there with us as far as I'm concerned, which means he'd probably turn us in if our roles were reversed... making this actually pretty easy now that I think about it." Kas finishes as he drops his hands and sits forward once more.

A conspicuous tap suddenly draws attention to the door, where Ara is sheepishly peeking out from behind the side of it. "Please don't hurt Cho," they mumble at their feet. "He saw me and saved me when nobody else cared. He's a good man and he's all I have."

We got to get rid of this thing before she starts growing on me. Damn little kid designed to look cute and get under your skin. "You got me now too, darlin'. No matter what happens to Cho, I'll be sure nothing happens to you."

Leaning down his voice taking a more compassionate tone, "Don't worry kid, we'll get you back to your own kind. If we take a job, we get it done. You're safe with us."

Standing back up he looks nods his head back out the door, "For now go play with Qwert, or see if you can catch Stilo's monkey. He is a slippery fella" Looking back to flash a smile at Stilo.

"We're not going to do anything to hurt him, but we can't say the same for the people that hired us." Kas replies as he turns toward the little Urbot. "He took a big risk helping you, a risk that he knew could come to this unfortunately."

Stilo stands as he gets the smile from Kovin. Grookey climbs down his torso and makes his way over to the little urbot. Climbing up his shoulder and rubbing his head against the cheek of the child. Under his breath Stilo looks at Grookey, "Softy". He takes a sigh before he speaks, "He's right though, go with Qwert and Grook. No need to get involved in adult talk."

Grookey does manage to grab Ara's attention, but the little Urbot's brow is still furrowed in concern as they slope off after the plant-like monkey. Ara's ability to communicate emotion non-verbally is extraordinary in and of itself. Urbots with facial expressions are essentially unheard of.

Soren stalks back to the cockpit and sits down next to Qwert, asking, "What do you make of 'em, Qwert? Ara isn't exactly like any urbot I've ever seen or heard of before." (edited)

Qwert remains uncharacteristically silent for a long moment before answering. "Obviously, as an Urbot, I do not consider myself a tool. However, our hardware is undeniably designed and manufactured for a purpose. Someone or something created Ara to provoke an emotional reaction from Cho, from you, from most organics. Why? I fear that this is a piece of the puzzle that we are missing."

Kas rises to his feet and follows the Pilot, happy to put a little more distance between their conversation and the two subjects of it. Hearing Qwert's assessment, he feigns a gasp before replying, his tone monotone and neutral."The Guild is up to something nefarious? Say it ain't so." Flopping down in his command chair he continues. "I think we all agree that the kid needs to go to the Conclave, and as much as I dislike it, it seems like taking Cho with is the best way to make that happen smoothly." (edited)

"So, stay our present course and then we'll worry about Cho after Ara is squared away?" Soren clarifies. (edited)

Wyvern sighs... "Hopefully the knives don't find us before we lose this bot" he thinks to himself. "As long as the job gets done and our asses are covered, that's all I care about." He answers as he grabs his rifle and hangs it on the wall.

"I should have known you'd already have us on the way there." Kas says with a chuckle. "Hold your heading helm, but do keep an eye out for pursuit while I go fill Cho in on the plan."

Up ahead of the ship, Warren's jump gate check point looms under the watchful gaze of two legion frigates.

Soren continues to check his instruments for signs of pursuit as he flies casually up to the queue to use the jump gate. "Qwert, did you ever get that refrigerant leak tracked down?" Qwert, pretending to sleep in his chair to Soren's right with his feet crossed on the console in front of him, responds "Yeah, it was back behind the flux collimator on the number two engine." Soren looks at Qwert out of the side of his eyes and slightly shakes his head. "Qwert, why are you so weird?" Sitting up, and uncrossing his feet, Qwert responds "I try to fit in and be more like you strange beings that need to waste a third of your short lives by being switched off--and mind you, you look forward to being switched off--I try to mimic your strange behaviors and I'm the weird one? Whatever. Why don't you go mash some dead animal in your mouth and swallow it." Sigh.

After a few minutes in the queue, the Folly's comms light up and a legion shuttle passes by asking for identification. (edited)

Switching on the comms, Soren puts on his most winning smile, hoping it will leak through the audio signal and replies, "This is the Procyon Folly, Soren speaking, how can I help you?"

"Please transmit your identification, license and shipping manifest," the trooper repeats as the shuttle begins to scan the Folly.

Soren, unclicks the comm and says to Qwert, "go ahead, Qwert." Flicking comms back on, Soren replies "Transmitting now, sir."

A few moments later the shuttle's scans complete and it moves on to the next ship in the queue.

"I think we're good, gents." Soren shouts back to the crew after switching comms off.

After almost half an hour waiting in line, the Folly finally reaches the jump gate and heads across the system towards Baftoma.

Setting the ship into autopilot for the uneventful jump, Soren gets out of his chair and heads back to the main section of the ship. "Anyone up for a game of Threat?"

Stilo raises his hand and says, "I'm down for whatever. I always have my hand cutter if necessary." A few moments pass and he calls out to Soren, "Only if you're ready to lose again."

With a smile, Soren heads to his bunk to grab the pieces and board. "Anyone else?" Soren lays out the board and takes a container full of little blue chits.

While the rest of the crew is busy passing through security and security and planning a game to pass the time, Kas makes his way back to the Brig. "Alright Cho, I think we've come to a decision about the bot. Before I share that with you, I have a question. It seems to be pretty attached to you, but are your feelings toward it the same?" He starts out as he leans against the bulkhead, just inside the door. "How involved with this thing do you want to be?"

Kas finds Cho sat cross-legged in his cell. The assassin's eyes are closed, but he opens them when the Folly's captain addresses him. "I would hope so," Cho tells Kas with a wry smile, "sometimes it was hard to tell if they were just sticking with me for survival. Ara is special and I'm burned with the Ashen Knives anyway. I had been planning on taking them to Baftoma. Conclave 01 have a representative there who had agreed to meet us. I don't know if they'll let me go with Ara, but I'd like to see that through. Nobody will be waiting for me back on Warren."

"Baftoma, eh?" Kas makes a mental note before he continues. "For what it's worth, they seemed petty upset when we talked about turning you in. Which is one of the reasons we've decided to drop the two of you off with the Conclave. I just didn't want to say anything about it if you weren't down for that as well." Kicking off the wall Kas steps forward a few paces. "Now that we've got that cleared up, can I assume you're not going to kill us all in our sleep if I let you out of there?"

Cho shakes his head with a grin and pushes himself to his feet. "I wouldn't say no to stretching my legs..."

"Sixteen territories divided by three is five units plus the system bonus for Genessa," Soren says under his breath as he takes more chits from his container. "That's nine units. Better get ready for the onslaught that's heading your way, Stilo."

"That's not a no, but I'll still let you out as a professional courtesy." Kas says with a chuckle as he keys the door open. "If you're interested some of the crew are starting a game of Threat in the cockpit. Otherwise you can find a spot to grab some shut eye somewhere, it's up to you."

As Kas walks off, Wyvern points at himself, then to Cho, then uses his pointer and middle finger to point at his own eyes, before sitting down with the others. (edited)

Cho immediately goes to find Ara and the two share a relieved hug, before everybody settles down to get some rest. Two days later a beeping in the cockpit indicates that the Folly is nearing its destination.

Bumping his head on the underside of the pilot's console in response to the sudden beeping, Soren quickly caps off the final wire, clicks on his head comm. and says "We're here Qwert. Make your way back up front as soon as you can get squared away back there." Soren slides out from under the mass of wires after shutting the compartment, and plops into the pilot's chair, pulling up all the ship's instruments and preparing for arrival. Keying on the cabin speaker, he announces their imminent arrival. "Androids and Gentlemen, this is your pilot speaking. Please return your seats to their upright and locked position. The local time is 11:31 and temperatures outside the cabin are a brisk 2.7 degrees Kilvin."

The ship shudders and groans and the Folly slips out of the hyperspace lane with a jolt. Up ahead lies the broken shell of what was once the planet Baftoma, chunks of crust glistening in Rin's distant light.

"Cho! Get up here." Kas shouts over his shoulder. (edited)

Soren shakes his head at the devastation on the planet. "What a waste. Damn Hegemony mining a planet so it's a corpse of its former self. Well, where to Cho?"

Still stiff from his ordeal on Warren, Cho slips into the cockpit and fishes his communicator out of his pocket. He flips his finger across the screen and a comm frequency appear on Soren's readouts. "Hail Desdemona. They're expecting to hear from me."

Soren glances up at Kas, as if to ask if he's sure about this.

Noticing the look Kas raises and eyebrow as he lifts his shoulders a millimeter or so, as if to say. "Your guess is as good as mine."

"Let's toss the dice," Soren says with a shrug. Pushing a few buttons, he hails the channel given him by Cho. "Desdemona, this is the Procyon Folly, please come in." (edited)

There a moment of silence and then the comm crackles to life. "Folly, this is Desdemona. You're not using you're usual contact frequency. Do you have Cho-Tyrek on board?"

"We're not here because of Cho, Desdemona. We have an urbot on board we want you to take a look at. Where can we meet in person?"

"Cho arranged the meet with them, so it's probably best to let them know he's here." Kas pipes up as the reply is transitted.

"I'm hoping they read the subtext. Who else would have known this channel? Don't you think we should maintain plausible deniability? This might not be a secure channel."

Nodding "I agree, if we're going to sell the lie to the Knives best to try and keep Cho as low profile as possible. If Cho knew to bring the kid here, I'm assuming the Knives will figure it out too."

"Alright, but on you two if we get shot at." Kas rumbles with a slight shrug.

Soren puts on his very best smile for Kas. "Hey, it's me." He turns to Kovin with a wink and waits for Desdemona's reply with bated breath.

"You'd better not be talking about Qwert, Soren," quips the voice at the other end and the Folly's console blinks as it receives a series of coordinates. "Please confirm the names of those on board." (edited)

Looking back at Kas, Soren gives a helpless shrug and replies, "Des, Qwert's feelings are going to be hurt. Besides me, Captain Kas, Kovin, Stilo, and Wyvern are all on board. We have a prisoner on board, Cho, and then we have that urbot, Ara. See you soon."

Kas stifles a laugh as the voice on the other end shows they know exactly who they are talking to. "How's that anonymity working out for you there?"

Qwert slowly turns his head to look at Soren, annoyed at being purposefully left off the list of crew. Soren winks at Qwert. "Soren, it must be exhausting to constantly find new ways to annoy me." Grinning, Soren responds, "Well buddy, genuine thrills in life are hard to come by, and walking that tight-rope of endearing rogue and abusive master makes me feel alive. Listen, I'll make it up to you. You can beat me in Pebbles tonight." "I can beat you in Pebbles every night. I am simulating beating you in Pebbles right now. Seven you's, in fact. And they are smarter than you. And better looking" "Qwert, you crack me up. High-five buddy," Soren offers as he holds his palm up at around chest level, about two feet too high for Qwert to reach. (edited)

A bit annoyed from losing some change to Soren in a game, Stilo questions the group, "So what's the plan once we learn how valuable the kid is? Are we going to wing it as usual?"

Kovin shrugs "Drop it, run and find a new hunt hopefully. Wash our hands and get out of this FUBAR situation before it drowns us." adding with a dry tone "That is if we can find some exciting hunts that won't put bounties our own heads"

Kas raises a hand to calm the antsy crew as he reminds them of a hard truth. "Let's finish this job before we start worrying about the next. We still have to deal with the Knives after this, and who knows how that'll turn out."

Soren guides the Folly in between continent-sized chunks of floating rock, following the transmitted flight path precisely. Once or twice it looks like they're on a collision course with a drifting asteroid, but every time the ship sails by with perfectly calculated grace. The final approach has the Folly headed directly towards a vast wall of rock, but Qwert raises a little metal hand when Soren hesitates and stays the course. A few moments later, the ship glides through the holographic shroud and into a shining silver docking bay. A quintet of urbots stands waiting for their guests to emerge.

"Well, here goes nothing I guess." Kas announces as he hops from his seat and makes his way to the airlock. A few button presses later and the sound of the air pressure stabilization alarm alerts him that the door's are now safe to open. "Come on, let's go meet our hosts." He announces as he steps into the airlock and waits for the others to join him. (edited)

Soren goes to the back of the ship to get Ara. "Stick with me, kid. At least until we know it's safe. I think they're friendlies, but you never know. Be ready to move."

Cho sticks by Soren and Ara's sides. For all his good intentions, he moves with the silent poise of a trained killer.

Cracking his neck and shoulders, stiff from the flight, Wyvern eyes the guard urbots up and down, trying to get a sense of their combat capabilities. He leans down and to his side just a little, whispering to Stilo. "Good thing we're here on friendly terms. Those guard bots would definitely be a hassle."

The urbot in the middle is a tall, feminine humanoid decorated in silver and blue. A third eyeball has been installed in the centre of her forehead. "Welcome," she declares, stepping forwards as the crew emerges. Her voice is multi-tonal, like many people speaking at once. "Captain Kas. Qwert. All of you. I am Desdemona." Her eyes settle on Ara who is peering out from behind Cho's leg. "...and this is little Ara-ini, is it? So much ado over such a delicate thing. Tell me, Ara, would you like to meet more of your own kind? To live free of those who would hunt and possess you?" Desdemona extents a hand towards Ara, who takes a tentative step forwards, before looking up at Cho and Soren for reassurance.

"I don't know these people, Ara. Want me to tag along for a while, just in case?"

Ara bites their lip in consternation, looking first at Desdemona and then back at Soren. They give a short nod and continue walking towards the larger urbot, who takes Ara by the hand and leads everyone deeper into the secret base.

"I must admit, Soren, although you never beat me, you do last marginally longer than most organics," Qwert says, placing a black pebble on the grid, acquiring control of a large area of the board. "That's what she said," Soren mumbles under his breath. Louder, Soren says, leaning back in his chair, "Qwert, don't take this the wrong way, but, while I'm impressed with whatever branching and pruning search algorithm was programmed into you, your theory of mind simulations need some work. Anyway, is there anything on the ship that needs tuning?" "Negative. It is in top form. Until you break it again." Leaning forward to clean up the Pebbles game, Soren lowers his voice and asks, "Qwert, can you try to gather some intel on the Conclave for us? What do they really want? Who's calling the shots? How are they constrained? Can we trust them? That sort of thing." Qwert tilts his head at the request, but nods slowly. "I am programmed with some of this information, but I cannot be sure this information is accurate without evidence...It could be from a prejudiced source, knowingly or not. I will do some digging. I can assume you want this information gathered covertly?" Shaking his head with a chuckle, Soren says "Yes Qwert, you can assume that." (edited)

As Desdemona escorts the group deeper into the base, Kas takes the opportunity to thank them. "We appreciate your hospitality and trust Desmenona. As you can imaging our actions in bringing these two here has put a bit of a target on our backs.... I don't suppose it would be to much to ask for a little time here to let that simmer down?" Kas asks their host, trying to be as diplomatic as possible. "We'd hate to over stay though, so feel free to kick us out the airlock if you need to." "Please say no." (edited)

Wyvern gives a single wave as the rest of the group as they follow Desdemona. "I'm not much for diplomacy or information gathering. I'll keep watch over the ship while you guys get new info." The tall man ducks his head as he reenters the Folly. As the muscle of the group and an experienced martial artist, Wyvern spent much of his time in the training room. The small room had a few pieces of body training equipment as well as a holoVR setup that was used as a rudimentary firing range. In the center he had placed a small square of training pads for a makeshift ring. While the others were out, Wyvern prepared a rigorous training session for himself. He set a few punching bags up in various locations, simulating a group of enemies and put on some protective equipment. Before starting he slows his breath, thinking only of the targets before him, bringing himself into a meditative state. Once he's ready, he makes a quick jab into a cross to the first bag before giving it a strong forward kick and chaining it into a back fist followed by a crescent kick into the second bag. He continues this fluid movement of kicks and punches into each punching bag until he's brought to the point of exhaustion, collapsing on the matted floor, covered in sweat.

Toe [Kodi & "M"]

As Desdemona escorts the group deeper into the base, Kas takes the opportunity to thank them. "We appreciate your hospitality and trust Desmenona. As you can imaging our actions in bringing these two here has put a bit of a target on our backs.... I don't suppose it would be to much to ask for a little time here to let that simmer down?" Kas asks their host, trying to be as diplomatic as possible. "We'd hate to over stay though, so feel free to kick us out the airlock if you need to." "Please say no." (edited)

"Of course," Desdemona tells Kas with a gracious nod. "We are most grateful to our allies aboard Rhin's Folly for delivering Ara-ini to us. I assure you, this facility is well hidden. Stay as long as you need."

Stilo rubs a sore spot on his neck he got from the last encounter, *That Cho sure did give us some trouble. Would be nice to have something that could restrain a guy like that. Maybe with a shock too. hehe "Im going window shopping." He grabs the creds from the mission and heads out the ship with Grookey on his shoulder. After asking a couple urbots to see if they know someone that is selling what he's looking for, he finds someone selling the schematics for exactly what he wanted. It's a very important investment. I'm sure no one else would mind. After, scrounging around for some scrap parts and buying what's needed to build his new toy he returns to the ship. We really need to get a proper workshop on this thing. he mumbles to himself as he goes into his corner to work on the item. Hours pass as Stilo welds the final piece together, "Done, finally." He yells out to anyone nearby, "Anyone want to test out my new toy?" (edited)

Kyle [Arcadian]

"Of course," Desdemona tells Kas with a gracious nod. "We are most grateful to our allies aboard Rhin's Folly for delivering Ara-ini to us. I assure you, this facility is well hidden. Stay as long as you need."

"I'll try my best to keep my crew in check and not over stay our welcome then." Kas answers with sincerity.

With his ship and crew secure Kas makes his way back to his quarters, only allowing his body to slump from the injuries he has sustained once the door is secured. Gingerly laying down on his rack, he closes his eyes against the pain only for sleep to claim him shortly there after. When he awakens a few hours later the pain is lessened, but not gone. Now able to sit up without having tears come to his eyes he sets about placing a few secure calls. First is a quick call to his mother, just to let her know he's safe, a normal revolution for him. The second call is a little more important, and takes a bit more time to prepare for, it going wrong could well cost them dearly after all. Several different versions of the conversation are recited to his mirror before one clicks. Three versions of that are practiced to that same mirror before another secure call goes out to the HQ of the Ashen Knives. "Hey, sorry it took me so long to check back in with you after that last nob, but that fucking Cho did a number on us. Asshole shot me in the god damned leg, knocked out my pilot and took the hell off with some bot he was dragging along behind him like it's some kind of pet or something."

Audibly sighing as he sees that Wyvern beat him to the ship's training center, slinging his sword he turns and heads to the ships computer terminal. Kovin repeatedly taps his fingers against the side of the desk as he waits for the terminal to boot up. Shaking his head at his own impatience he takes a deep breath and with considerable effort centers himself. The impatience and excitement doesn't fail to dissipate, with how much hell they raised on that last mission it is quite possible that Horux has his scent. It wouldn't due to allow his former teacher to get the jump on him. Tapping into the various bounty boards Kovin scans for any marks that would match Horux's profile, after hours of fruitless searching he the Mystic shuts the terminal down with. Sadly his master was smart enough not to make it easy and getting linked to a city wide fire fight. Seeing the gym open he cleanses his frustration by pushing his body to the brink. Working himself until all he could manage was to slowly drag himself into his bunk and collapse.

After a few days of rest and recuperation Kas calls the crew back together. "Alright, I think we'd better get going before we wear out our welcome and piss these guys off. The question now is what next? Do we head back to Rin and look for another job, or do we pop off to another system and let the heat back there cool down a little? Anyone got a lead on a job anywhere?" (edited)

21:09

He asks as he looks around the room. "Anyone got any ideas of stuff we can spend some creds on, maybe some upgrades to the Folly?" He adds after a moment of thought. "We should have a bit in the bank."

Soren, wanting to see Stella again, makes his pitch for Rhin. "I think we could use the heat on Rhin to our advantage. Someone will like what we did, even if others didn't. Also, I think we should consider getting some of our own personal vehicles. It can't have helped our position there to have returned that rental with blaster burns on it. If we get more notorious, it'll be harder for us to just go to the local Rads rental and get a car. I think I've got an in on where we could find some good deals on our own vehicles if we go to Rhin."

Stilo ears pick up as he hears Kas' comment about creds in the bank and he quickly tries to redirect from that topic as he brings up a suggestion, "Why don't we actually finish a job for the Ashen Knives this time so they don't think we're a bunch incompetent dumba##es."

Kovin methodically moves his blade back and forward across his whetstone as he listens to his fellow hunters plan. Nodding at Stilo "Yeah and it will be nice to not hafve to duck the hunters they send, when they realize we aren't as dumb as we say. Though if we can help it, I say we take a job with the Knives in another system. Let the shit storm we kicked up die down a bit." Looking over to Soren "your right though. We do need our own ride. Could put some of creds that way." (edited)

As Stilo speaks up Kas points at him. "Now that, is a good idea." As Kovin adds his own thoughts, that same finger slides over to him. "But that is a great idea." "The farther away from Rhin the better after all." (edited)

After a moments pause, Kas slides his eyes and attention back to Stilo. "Those are some fancy new weapons, where'd you pick them up? These bots have some kind of arms mart I missed?"

Stilo's ears pop up as he gets excited to talk about jis new toy, "Oh this baby is a new tool I made after our last mission inspired me. Figured Cho was giving us problems restraining him so i made this. You point, shoot, and it restrains the target and as an added bonus it shocks 'em, heh." Stilo quickly realizes where this conversation will lead and apprehensively replies, "This place is sparse on arms dealers. Had to search around for someone willing to trade for parts and plans." (edited)

"You made that? Nice!" Kas exclaims with sincere admiration. He'd never been all that good with creative endeavors, so anyone that had those skills earned his respect. The fact that it would probably save money in the long run, didn't hurt either of course. "I don't suppose you could make more and save us some money? Ship upgrades will probably eat up everything we made off that last job, so every little things will help out."

Stilo responds, "I could make more but I'd need to get more parts and that could cost a pretty penny for good quality stuff."

"How much? We've got a little wiggle room now, but not much." Kas offers as he prepares to do some math in his head.

Stilo responds in a bit of a mumble, "Well price can vary but for to make you one could cost like 2 to 3 cred and that goes for everyone else too."

Kas lifts his chin as if to nod before bringing it back down and tilting his head to the side as his brow furrows deeply. He has a pretty good idea of the answer to the question he's about to ask, and he's very sure he's not going to like it, but he still asks it. "So that one cost 2, 3 creds? And that came from where exactly? You pick up a side job here or something?"

Stilo regrets start to grow as he has to answer for his actions, "Nah, you know we don't have that kind of time. I figured it'd only make sense to use money we got from Cho to make going after guys like Cho easier. I see it as a worthy investment for the whole crew, to make our lives easier And don't we love it when our lives get easier."

A few taps on his console later and Kas's furrowed brow, grows even deeper. "So you wanted a new toy and figured you'd just help yourself to what we as a group earned by bringing Cho in? The creds that I got fucking shot for?! You spent damn near half of what we had left, putting us even deeper in the god damned hole!" The captain growls, not bothering to temper the anger in his voice. Turning to the rest of the crew he finally does attempt to calm his voice. "So what do we do with him?"

"Why don't you test out the gun on him and see how ya like it? Soren suggests.

Slowly stepping back with his hands up, "Listen now, no need to be rash. I understand your anger, but think about it. With this you want have to get shot again."

Soren's smile grows into a silent laugh seeing Stilo squirm. It was a jerk move, of course, but he didn't want to see Stilo actually hurt because of it...mostly just the squirming. (edited)

Looking around the cramped ship and seeing more than a bit of dust and dirt, Kovin smiles and says "Sounds like Stilo has volunteered himself for cleaning duty this trip."

"Testing the new weapon on him is tempting... But I think cleaning duty sounds a lot less messy. Oh and of course it goes without saying that you're forfeiting your portion of the next few jobs to repay the rest of the crew?" Kas states the last as a question, but it' clear that it is not. "Now that we have that figured out, let's get the hell out of this system, it's been nothing but bad luck."

"Aye, aye captain. Qwert, let's get her airborne."

Stilo looks down with his ears back and walks towards the closet and picks up a mop in defeat as he solemnly responds, "Aye, aye captain."

Wyvern bumps into Stilo as he passes by, giving him a sly smirk before heading to his bunk.

The Holt gate is a day's burn away, giving everybody times for a little R&R. However, cooped up in a ship this small, there's also no escaping each other.

As the Folly waits in line at the system gate, they're hailed by a Legion corvette requesting a representative to interview regarding local unrest on Warren.

"Shit." Kas thinks as he keys the Mic and responds. "This is the captain. I'd be more than happy to answer any questions you have, but we've not been there in a bit." (edited)

"Copy that, Rhin's Folly, prepare to be boarded..." The corvette docks with the Folly and Kas is escorted away by a pair of burly looking Legion security officers. A couple of hours later he's tossed back through the airlock looking a little worse for wear, but otherwise unharmed.

"Always a charming chat with those assholes." Kas jokes as he retakes his seat with a sigh, one of his hands going to his temple as soon as he does. "Get us though the gate and moving before they decide to go for round two would you?"

"Aye aye, captain. Thanks for taking this one."

Kovin winces and says "Not been your week cap" as he tosses over an ice pack and bottle of beer

Kas happily accepts the thanks, ice pack, and beer. "Protecting my crew's part of the job description."

A few minutes later the Folly is cleared for the jump to Holt and shoots off into the black between star systems - their home for the next several days.

The star of Holt burns a brilliant white as the Folly emerges from the Rin gate and the system's planets glisten like brilliant jewels in the alabaster starlight.

Emerging from his quarters looking much better rested, Kas drops into his seat and dials up Alox, their Ashen Knives contact. "Hey Arlox, it's Kas on Rhin's Folly, I hear you might have a job you need done."

"Kas, welcome back," Arlox's lilting accent rolls over the comm. "How did the job on Warren go?"

"It was a shit show, as I'm sure you very well know." Kas drawls, not even bothering to try to downplay it.

"...and so you come to me, seeking redemption," Arlox intones in return. Kas can virtually hear the predatory grin across the Pasha's face.

"You say that like it was hard to figure out." Is what Kas want's to say, but instead he holds his tongue, instead opting for something a bit more civil. They are here to get back in the Knives good graces, not piss them off more. And you saw right through my plan. Can't slip anything past you, can I?"

"As it happens, there is something I want," Arlox muses whimsically, "but it's not for the open air waves. Come to me on Sonhandra and we can talk business. Arlox out."

"Arlox out." Kas mimics after their contact disconnects. "Alright, you heard the man, take us to Sonhandra."

Turning to Qwert, Soren, with a serious look, nods, and says, "Punch it!" Qwert tilts his head to one side and then punches Soren in the thigh. "Punched." "Oh, so you're a comedian now?" Shaking his head and rolling his eyes, Soren pulls the lever, accelerating the ship towards Sonhandra. (edited)

Sonhandra is tidally locked with a blistering day side and most settlements in the twilit border zone, including the Folly's destination, the capital of Ugar. Oddly, all light sources extinguish about a kilometre into the night side. Sonhandra is known for its lax policies regulating trade and has become a choice destination for smugglers and fences alike. Soren and Qwert set the ship down amidst row after row of vessels parked in the open dirt on the outskirts of Ugar. Frequent wind storms howl between the day and night sides of the planet and perpetual twilight reigns amid the paved streets and concrete buildings. (edited)

Arlox owns a decadent mansion on the hubward side of town, living in what could almost be a perpetual summer evening, when the air isn't full of dust. As the crew walks away from the Folly, they can see a handful of drone-drawn rickshaws lining up to ferry visitors into the city.

"Remember, we're trying to get back on their good sides, so we all need to be on our best behavior." Kas reminds the crew as they head towards the rickshaws. He makes a point to meet each members eye while trying not toe linger too long on any one individual. "So no drinking or picking fights or any of your normal BS. Think of this as visiting your grandmother, ok?"

Stilo rolls his eyes, "My grandmother eats out of trash". He looks to Grookey on his shoulder and points his finger in his face to tell him, "Don't touch anything without my say-so, got it?" The little monkeys bark like ears tilt down showing submission and he nods in agreement.

Kasin chuckles as he follows along "Didn't know your Granny's prone to cutting people too. Guess it'll be just like home eh?" Shrugging he adds "Let's go find out if he took your line or if we're just loose ends" (edited)

The rickshaw drivers wear dusty balaclavas and masks to protect them from the wind storms. The front-most drone comes to life with a dull whine as the crew approach and they're soon streaking across Ugar towards the permanently rising sun on the horizon.

Wyvern lumbers behind, the large man's eyes darting side to side as he scans the mansion's defenses. Eyeing the compound's guards, their positions, and their equipment as he silently follows the rest of the crew.

The Ashen Knives' den is here in Ugar is built to look like any other up-town, luxury home, but Wyvern's trained eye quickly picks out the carefully designed killbox as they enter the grounds and the unusually well-armed security forces. Despite all appearances to the contrary, this is a fortress. Kas guides his crew inside and they are welcomed by Arlox's ketkhuda, Hasim, who is expecting them. Hasim is a tall, slim man with gaunt features and a wiry black moustache. "Your weapons, please," he explains, gesturing to a pair of guards who step up to disarm the crew.

Kas dutifully disarms, handing all his weapons over. Once he has done so, he steps to the side and endures the other members of the crew do likewise by speaking two words. "Grandma's house."

Soren pulls out his brace of pistols, giving them to the man on the left. "Where do you keep the hard candy, grandma?"

Begrudgingly, Wyvern hands Viper to one of the guards. "I better get that back in the same condition as I left it." he scowls in a serious tone, arm bent up and index finger pointed at the guard.

Kovin hands over his rifle with ease, but falters as he unslings his sword. The sheath resting in his hand, as he senses his own unique imprint in The Way almost reflecting back at him. He had spent weeks forging the blade, hammering the metal and shaping it into the perfect physical expression of himself. He would rather give up his hand, than part with the blade. But they had gotten themselves into this mess, and this looked to be the only way out. Glaring at the guard he roughly slams the sheath into the guards hands, and with a nod to Kas he growls out "Granny better be in mood to play nice"

The large brute bends down to check Stilo sticking out his hands, "Ay, watch your hands there, ugly. I thought this was Grandma's house not my creepy uncle's shack? The obvious blaster in a holster on his hip was given up. The man then runs a scanner across Stilo's body, and it beeps as it passes over his groin area. Stilo looking insulted, "Hey, I know it's a weapon of mass destruction but I was never literal about it." The man gives him an unamused look and tell him to remove whatever is in there. Stilo looks to the side in a defeated manner and whispers under his breath, Damnit, you guys are no fun. He then pulls out a mini pistol and two round pulse grenades. He then reaches around the back and pulls out a tiny laser knife. "There. You happy?" The guard looks surprised and disgusted and then takes the pack from Stilo's back and does another scan with no hits. He nods to the other guards that Stilo's free to pass. (edited)

Once the crew have been relieved of their arms, Hasim guides them out the other side of the check point in the vestibule and into a bright, luxurious atrium with stairs curving up the inner walls. The crew are led up to the third floor and into a lounge full of plush, wine-red recliners with floor-to-ceiling windows and a panoramic view of the hubward horizon. Arlox is lazing on a chaise longue being fed fruit by a veiled girl dressed in burgundy harem pants and little else. "My friends!" He exclaims warmly as the crew enters. "Welcome. Come, sit with me. Make yourselves comfortable." Arlox gestures to the other chairs and a fragrant tea, turkish delight and fresh fruit are served on the coffee tables by the staff.

"Oh good, they always yell at me on the ship for it, but when in Roane, am I right?" Soren says, stripping his shirt off and slouching in the first red chair.

It takes more than a bit of Kovin's discipline to not groan at the scene in front of him. Though he does allow himself a small shake of his head as Soren begins to disrobe. They still don't know if Arloxis is still hot over the business with Cho & the bot. Him taking their weapons and flaunting his wealth could be a message. Taking a seat he looks over to Arlox and says in as friendly a manner as he can muster "You're to kind, though it looks like business has been good for ya lately. "

Kas frowns but holds his tongue as the crew makes there jokes about his Grandma's house comments as they disarm. "Take all the pot shots you want, just please listen." When they all eventually comply he allows himself to relax slightly, but not all the way. This is just one step on their path for the day, a path that leads through a figurative mine field. When they are finally let through to the next room, finding Arlox calm and relaxed helps Kas relax a little more, although that is quickly erased as Soren immediately begins to disrobe. Wincing, he once again holds his tongue, instead taking a seat, offering his own complement as he does so. "Kovin's right, your operation is looking really good"

"Yeah, life is good," Arlox agrees, gesturing lazily at their surroundings and bobbing his head in satisfaction, "but it can always be better." The pasha ignores Soren's antics entirely, instead focusing on the Folly's captain. "What about you, Kas? Is life good, or do you want more?"

"It can always be better." Kas answers with a nod, mirroring the others words back to him almost instantly.

Arlox's attendant pours him a cup of tea from and the pasha reclines in his chair, which is looking increasingly like a throne. "What do you know about Vosian crystals, Kas?" He asks.

"The same thing everyone does I suppose. Worth a shit load of credits because they're rare and somehow connected to those 'Way' weirdo's." Kas offers with air quotes included.

Arlox snorts a laugh. "Accurate, if simplistic," he grants. "They're harvested on the neighbouring planet of Vos. Ever been?"

"No, but I have the very distinct feeling you are about to change that." Kas notes as he cocks his head to the side, challenging the shirtless man to prove him wrong.

"Savvy as ever," Arlox observes, his eyes sparkling. "We call it 'Glimmer' and the Guild keeps it under lock and key. You have to dock at station IA-23 and shuttle down to do business on the surface. That, or run the permanent blockade that they have in orbit. Make it through there and you win the dubious honour of being hunted by Morek - they have him on retainer."

The Vosian crystals had gained Kovin's attention but Morek had sparked his excitement. Leaning in he smiles and asks "Morek?! You sure? Man's a legend, getting to pit our skills against hunter of his class will be beyond glorious." With a quick glance towards Kas he adds "For the right price of course"

Arlox laughs. "I would avoid it at all costs, if I were you. Having Morek on your tail is a death sentence. If you screw up that bad, you're on your own. Fortunately, I have no interest in hiring your crew for a suicide mission and, no offence, but stealing Vosian crystals from under the watchful eyes of the Guild is a little above your pay grade. No, I have something else that I need on Glimmer. Someone else." Arlox nods to Hasim who hands Kas a datapad. "Gaius Pim is the aide to Impera Evazan, the Guild's ranking logistics officer on Glimmer. I need you to extract Gaius and return him and his information on the Guild's supply structure safely to me."

Stilo looking confused, "stealing from the guild, something or someone, how is it less suicidal? Is this Gaius guy not liked by the guild and won't notice him gone?"

"Gaius is just an aide," Arlox tells Stilo with a smile that doesn't reach his eyes, "not a Vosian crystal. Perhaps nobody will even notice his absence?" (edited)

"Why doesn't it surprise me that the Guild cares more about some rock than their own people?" Kas rumbles mirthlessly. "Tell us more about this un noticed aide."

"He's a self-serving, but intelligent man, who's made a great deal of money telling me what I want to know," Arlox elaborates, casually shrugging as he leans back in his chair. "However, sadly, that time may be coming to an end. The risk has finally begun to outweigh the benefits and Gaius has promised me something special if I get him out alive. That's where you come in," the pasha tells the crew with a wink.

"So he won't be trying to kill us then? That's a fun change of pace." Kas exclaims with a chuckle. (edited)

"I would hope not, but you never know," Arlox remarks with his usual nonchalance. The comment is most likely a joke, but sounds just sincere enough to be unsettling.

"So what, we just fly down there and pick him up then?" Kas asks with clear skepticism. "There's clearly a lot more to this than that."

"Alive and without him falling victim to Guild forces who might prefer that he stay, yes," Arlox confirms, holding Kas's gaze.

"And I take it the Guild has an interest in keeping him right where he is?" Kas asks, while already knowing the answer.

"I expect that they would prefer that his knowledge of their transportation routes remain safely on Glimmer," Arlox repeats slowly as though Kas needs extra time to grasp the situation.

"Super." Kas replies dryly. "Do we have a way to contact him and coordinate a pickup, or have you already set something up?"

"Conventional channels are too susceptible to Guild surveillance," Arlox explains, "Gaius will be in a bar named Etheria on the promenade three days from now."

"Great. Got a picture of this guy handy so we know who to look for?" Kas asks, fully expecting to be told to look for someone with a red flower on their lapel, or some other cloak and dagger bullshit.

Arlox sips at his tea and gestures to the datapad in Kas's hand.

Kas dutifully pulls up his Datapad to look over the information provided.

Kovin nods "Seems straight forward enough. Meet Gaius as the Etheria, get him off planet quietly. And avoid playing with Morek." Leaning back "Anything else we should be concerned about?"

"I hope not!" Arlox tells Kovin with a laugh. "Never take the Guild lightly though."

"Good." Standing with nod over to Kas"Probably should talk rates before Soren decides to go the full monty."

"Only in your dreams, friend."

"Your standard rate will be fine," Arlox remarks in response to Kovin. "Normally, I wouldn't front that much for a mere pick-up job, but since the Guild is involved I don't see any need to rock the boat."

"Sounds fair to me." Kas chimes in, having feared they'd be low balled after the last debacle. "Anyone else got any questions for Arlox before we head out?" He asks the others as he too rises to his feet.

"Yeah. How d'ya get that sweet v-shape down by your hips? I've been really attacking my core lately, but nothing."

Wyvern shakes his head at Kas, ready to leave as soon as possible. During the meeting he had been standing off to the side, leaning against the back wall where they entered. His hand on his hip, tapping at his holster restlessly, which normally would be holding Viper.

Arlox chuckles and also rises, throwing on a red silk gown and moving over to the large windows to watch the sun on the horizon. "Hasim, show our guests to their things. They have places to be." Hasim beckons to Kas, leading the crew back out through the atrium to the vestibule. The security staff return everybody's weapons before sending them on their way.

"So, who wants to put money on this being some sort of guild trap?" Kas asks the others once they are safely clear of prying ears.

Tapping his ear-piece, Soren reaches out to Qwert. "We'll be back in minute, bud. Spin her up."

Breathing out as he withheld himself from talking and making a scene in front of the gang boss, Stilo responds to Kas "I'll bet grandma's house on it"

A hunched figure draped in dark cloth appears on the edge of the street, once the crew have moved away from Arlox's wealthy neighbourhood and into the thoroughfare once more. He edges closer, sweeping the trailing edges of his cloak back and forth. "Tttttravellers, yessss?" He enquires with unnerving enthusiasm. "You looking for fun, yes? Good times?"

Stilo looks to the figure and back at the crew with both palms up and pointing at the figure, "Well if it isn't grandpa. Sorry gramps don't think you can handle the kind of fun we deal with."

"Oh, is that so?" The old man remarks with faux remorse. "Well then you won't be interested in getting your hands on a little Haze." He notes, waggling a tiny transparent bag full of electric blue powder near the racoon's face.

Soren sweeps his jacket back revealing a blaster pistol in its holster. "Move along, old man. We don't want any fun...or any trouble."

"Sorry bud, we're on the clock. Maybe we'll have time later." Kas adds, more for the crew than the old man.

The man seems suitably cowed by Soren's overt threat and scurries away back into the shadows.

As the crew heads rimward and the light fades from the sky, the number of vagrants on the streets of Ugar that appear to headed in the same direction slowly, but steadily increases until it starts to become conspicuous.

Kas begins to look around, meeting the eyes of the crew as concern and curiosity become clear on his face.

Soren sighs, sweeping back his coat revealing both pistols and keys on his comm. once more. "We may be coming in hot, Qwert. We're getting surrounded." He searches the street for cover.

Wyvern unclips viper, his hand poised to pull it from it's holster at the first sign of trouble. He keeps a watchful eye over the crowd, searching for anything, or anyone, that seems out of place.

Despite the large number of shady looking characters on the streets of Ugar, none stray close enough to the crew to be threatening.

Kovin slowly removes his hand from the hilt of his blade as he sees the crowd maintain their distance. Adding dryly to the group "Probably get many visitors. Bit of shame they didn't try something, but if fortune's kind we'll get to play a bit of cat an mouse with Morek." Smirking towards Kas as he finishes. Knowing the captain will want to steer far a way from the legendary hunter.

It's late by the time the crew make it back to the Folly, or it would be if the sun ever moved in Sonhandra's burnt orange sky. The lights are on and Qwert as the engines warm as instructed.

"All right Qwert, move over," Soren says with mock dismissal in his voice as he takes the pilot chair. "We're going to Glimmer. We'll dock at station IA-23." Lowering his voice just for Qwert, he continues. "Everything OK while we were gone? That place was starting to give me the shivers as were leaving. Anyone mess with the ship?" (edited)

"Yes, I invited several passing vagrants in for a house party..." Qwert deadpans in response.

"Were any cute?"

"By your standards or Stilo's?"

"Beggars can't be choosers."

Stilo off in his corner removing the weapons from his suit to settle down into the ship overhears Soren's conversation with with Qwert. His ear turns towards them and he yells out, "I heard that!"

With a thunderous roar, the Folly's engines flare to life. Dust plumes up from the earth as the vessel slowly rises off of the ground and turns to find its new heading. Then the pale blue glow of the ship's drive cone swells and burns, sending the Folly shooting off into the sky and into orbit. The three days that follow are spent skimming between way lanes as the crew make their way across Holt towards Glimmer, until finally the distant, shimmering orb of light grows ever larger ahead of them. Station IA-23 is comprised of a central spire with three rings encircling it. The Folly is hailed almost immediately upon approach. "Rhin's Folly, this is station control. Please state your business on Vos."

Soren looks over at the captain with a questioning look.

Stilo whispers to himself, "ah shit. Don't screw us over before we even land."

"Looking to buy some crystal for export, just like everyone else." Kas drawls in his best bored trader voice.

"Undestood. Please transmit your Guild sales contact and you'll be directed to the appropriate docking bay." (edited)

"That's what we're here to negotiate my man." Kas replies with a grimace to the others in the control room.

Stilo is rubbing his index and thumb on the brow of his nose as he hears Kas's effort. He continues to whisper, "We're so fucked." his head starts nodding side to side in disappointment.

"Ah, I see," comes the reply, after an extended pause. "Prospective customers can land on ring C. A flight path will be transmitted to your pilot. Please do not attempt to leave the hangar bay. Guild staff will meet you there for assessment."

"Roger, understood." Kas replies as he gives Soren a thumbs up.

Looking around to the crew "How do we want to tackle this? Last hunt was a bit of a shit show, if things go south like that here..." Kovin grunts and runs his thumb across his neck "Let's just say I wouldn't bet on us making it home. We know he is going to be in a bar and when, gives us a bit to work with in setting up our approach."

"Well, maybe it makes sense to try to get an actual contract to transport these crystals...should give us a legitimate reason for getting to the surface. After that...I don't know. Things go south, then we gotta do what we gotta do. Maybe we schedule a meeting with the guild at the same time somewhere else to distract them and establish an alibi?" (edited)

The console blinks as Soren and Qwert receive the promised flight plan.

Soren guides the ship in as instructed until the Folly arrives at a shimmering blue square of forcefield in the side of the lower ring. Inside, a greasy bureaucrat flanked by a cadre of Guild security forces stands waiting to receive them. The ship drifts slowly inside before setting down with a hiss of hydraulics.

"Does that look like overkill to anyone else?"

"Definitely." Wyvern throws his blaster in it's holster, leaving it unlatched, just in case.

Soren withdraws his left blaster pistol and hands it to Qwert. "Qwert, hide this and yourself in the back. Come get us if we aren't able to extract ourselves in a few hours from whatever this is."

Stilo regretting his life decisions looks over to Kas, "I have a feeling you weren't as convincing as you think you were."

Securing his rifle and blade "So much for keeping a low profile. You're gunna have to lay on the charm thick captain, if we want to get out of here without a fight."

"Well shit, this doesn't look promising, does it?" Kas asks as he stands and straightens his jacket. Casting an eye toward Kovin as he adjust his weapons he holds up a hand. "No need for those. We either talk our way though, or they send us packing, we're not getting into a shoot out with the Guild."

Kas peers down the ramp towards the greeting party that awaits them. A hunch-backed mean with a lank combover of shiny, black hair and small, beady eyes peers back up him. "Hello Captain. The Guild extends its welcome to station IA-23," he rasps nasally, wringing his hands as he speaks. "My name is Mevakor Hawking and I will be your sales contact here on Vos for the duration of your stay. I'm told that you've expressed interest in negotiating a contract."

"Nice to meet you Mister Hawking, I'm Captain Kas, and you've heard right." Kas offers verbally as he smiles and holds out his hand.

Soren strolls down the ramp arms crossed and hands away from the bulge of his single pistol resting on his right hip showing through his coat. He comes to rest next to the captain. Captain's body's as good of cover as anything else out here, if things go sideways.

"Yes, yes, please follow me," Hawking replies beckoning to Kas to follow him out of the docking bay.

After a quick glance over his shoulder to his backup, Kas follows.

Kovin falls in step with the captain his stance appearing relaxed but his mind focused. Watching the guards for any sign of hostility.

Well that seems like an obvious trap... "See you in a few, Cap," Soren says, as he makes his way back onto the ship.

Three of the guild's troopers escort Kas, Kovin and Wyvern as they follow Hawking, while the other three remain behind to guard the docking bay. The captain is led to a pristine white room with four round purple-cushioned seats, surrounding a silver coffee table with a terminal set into it. Beige urns stand in the corners of the room holding sprigs of lavender. "Please, sit," Hawking tells the trio, gesturing to the chairs. "So, you wish to establish a business relationship with the Guild," he begins, taking a seat. "As you must know, the distribution of vosian crystals is highly regulated. Might I inquire, for what purpose do you intend to sell them?"

Kas takes the indicated seat, settling back into it, but not relaxing fully. When the question of their purpose for selling comes up wastes no time in answering truthfully. "We intend to sell them to make a profit."

Hawking sighs and rubs his brow. "Yes, of course, but to what market segment and with what customer intent? This is not a freely available commodity. I do hope that you have done your research before making the long journey to Vos." (edited)

"What market segment? Well with Mystical people, or course." Kas replies flatly, while ignoring the latter part of Hawking's comments.

"...indeed," Hawking remarks dryly, pulling up a holographic interface from the terminal on the table. "You can begin by filling out form PRS-12. Our systems will alert my when it is complete." With that, the man rises and leaves the room. The guards remain outside the door.

"Great, thanks for your help." Kas calls after the man, before following instructions and beginning to fill out the form.

Kovin leans over Kas' shoulder to get a look at the form, and his head nearly spins at all of the legalese and ridiculous BS. Quietly muttering "Ya getting any of this cap?"

"Some..." Kas finally admits after several long seconds of silence. "Reads like the shit my mother had to go through when my father got killed in a work accident."

Soren walks out of the ship and casually approaches one of the guards. "Hey, I get the feeling this is going to take a while. Can I, like, grab a taxi down to the surface to hit up a bar or a pool or something? You know any good spots?"

The guard glances at the other two and one shrugs back. "Del'll show you to the promenade," he grunts gesturing to the guard who nodded. Del beckons to Soren to follow and leads him out into the corridor. (edited)

Soren nods with a smile. "Much obliged." Once by themselves, Soren pulls out a small flask, takes a swig and offers it to Del. "Del, is it? What's it like workin' here? Pay any good? I'm pilot of that beater out there, but she ain't mine, and the captain don't pay worth shit. Lookin' for a place to maybe find somethin' new."

"Thanks, but not while I'm on duty, I'm afraid," Del tells Soren with a friendly wave. "There's worse gigs. It's reliable, but a bit remote and highly regulated. Maybe you can find something advertised on the promenade." He shows Soren to a turbolift down the corridor, pushing the button and gesturing for the pilot to step inside once it arrives.

"Thanks, I'll keep an eye out," Soren replies as he steps inside the lift.

Del accompanies Soren up to the central ring and escorts him to the front desk of a security checkpoint. "Sign this, please," he explains, handing over a datapad and stylus. "Then you're free to use the facilities on the promenade." (edited)

"Awesome. Thanks, man, I appreciate it." Soren signs the pad as he takes a quick glance at what it says. "Anything on the promenade I shouldn't miss?"

"What's your poison?" Del asks good-naturedly, leaning on the counter at the front desk with a grin.

Soren grins and says "Well, I'm not too particular, but usually dark hair and feisty. But any pretty lass'll do."

Del chuckles. "Try the Cabaret. It's on the hubward side. Should have something to your liking." (edited)

Soren makes his way around the promenade keeping his eyes open for opportunities to make his way to Etheria while heading towards the Cabaret.

Etheria is hard to miss while walking the high street of the promenade. The busy establishment has a prime central location with a broad front illuminated in blues and pinks akin to those commonly seen in Vosian crystals. (edited)

Soren checks his watch, sees that he has plenty of time before Gaius is due at Etheria, and makes his way to the Cabaret.

The Cabaret is a low key storefront on the inner rim of the promenade ring, away from the main hustle and bustle of the station. Painted black and trimmed in purple, its name is declared in peeling colours above the door. Inside, Soren finds himself just as at home as he is in a dozen brothels across the sector.

Soren strolls into the Cabaret and plops down on a ratty armchair, trying not to think about when it was cleaned last. "Looking for some companionship for the evening for me and my mate. Who's up for some time at Etheria and then a nightcap on my ship?"

It's a slow night and several working girls flit over to Soren to find out who the mysterious stranger is. Unfortunately, none of them are entirely suited for what he has in mind. Eventually, he settles on a pair that will probably do. (edited)

"Well ladies," Soren says extending his elbows to escort them out of the Cabaret, "shall we?" As Soren walks along the station towards Etheria, he keeps an eye out for anyone following him.

Soren doesn't spot a specific tail, but the hairs standing up on the back of his neck tell him that something isn't right.

"Alright, I'm going to get us a room for now. I'll let you freshen up while I get our fourth." Soren says, taking them into a hotel adjacent the Etheria.

The Bocardo hotel adjacent to Etheria is an upscale hotel at the heart of the space station. The hotel receptionist glares at Soren and his companions from the moment they walk through the door.

Soren grimaces with guilt and empathy at the reception. "Hello, I've been asked to secure a suite for my employer and his, ahem, guests here."

"What is the name of your employer and how he will be paying for his suite?" She asks, unimpressed.

"Korin Nasra, and I can pay for tonight up front. I suspect it will be for just the night, but he hasn't finalized his plans yet," Soren replies, digging out his cred stick. (edited)

glancing at the guard and turning to Kas "Hey Cap I think you forgot your reading glasses." Looking over to the guard "Hey buddy you mind if we pop back to the ship and get his glasses?" adding with a chuckle "You all sure put a lot of fine print on these contracts"

"Huh?" Kas asks as he looks up bleary eyed, but quickly catches on to the ruse. "Oh yeah, you should both go, make sure those idiots back there aren't causing some kind of diplomatic incident."

Rick [LE-X21 | Kato | Wulfhelm]

"Korin Nasra, and I can pay for tonight up front. I suspect it will be for just the night, but he hasn't finalized his plans yet," Soren replies, digging out his cred stick. (edited)

Her reticence notwithstanding, the woman transfers the credits from Soren's stick and hands him a keycard for room number 404. "Enjoy your stay," she tells him flatly.

Tegan J Gaming

glancing at the guard and turning to Kas "Hey Cap I think you forgot your reading glasses." Looking over to the guard "Hey buddy you mind if we pop back to the ship and get his glasses?" adding with a chuckle "You all sure put a lot of fine print on these contracts"

"Hm?" The guard asks, looking up from his compad at Kovin. "Oh, sure. Right this way." He replies, beckoning to the bounty hunter and opening the door.

Thanks, much!" Soren says, walking with the girls to the lifts. Once out of earshot and sightlines of the front desk, Soren hands the keycard to the brunette and says "Please make yourselves comfortable while I go get our fourth." With that, Soren attempts to find a way from the hotel over to the adjacent Etheria, hoping there might be a direct connection. If not, well, Soren is not above getting lost in the kitchens or the maintenance areas.

The Bocardo does indeed feature a direct door to the adjacent restaurant, where a greeter waits behind a small lectern. "Will you be dining with us tonight, sir?"

Briefly checking the room and not seeing his quarry anywhere obvious, Soren responds with a smile, "Yes, thank you. I'm sorry I don't have a reservation, but a table for two would be lovely. My second should be arriving soon."

Soren is shown to his table and, roughly half an hour later, he spots a man matching Gaius's photo entering the restaurant and asking to be seated.

Wiping his mouth with his napkin, Soren enjoys another bite of his fried cheese, drizzled with a creamy red sauce while looking for anyone tailing Gaius.

Gaius appears to be alone, but more and more it dawns on Soren that he himself is not. Across the restaurant, a man sits alone enjoying his own meal. A man who Soren is increasingly sure that he's seen more than once since he arrived on the promenade.

Soren leaves some money on the table to cover his appetizer and heads over to the man that appears to be tailing him. Sitting down across from the man, Soren asks "You lookin' for a score?"

The man looks up from his food to see who has approached him. He has a dark olive complexion and is dressed in a sharply tailored black suit. "Excuse me?" He asks Soren with a bemused smile.

"Oh well it's just that I've noticed you hanging around me. Did I read the situation wrong? Are you not interested in a little...recreational enhancements?" Soren replies casually as he leans forward propping his chin on his left hand, elbow on the table while his right hand secretly and slowly unholsters his pistol under the table. "Is there some other reason I've seen you following me?" (edited)

"I'm sorry," the man replies, laying down his cutlery and shaking his head with the same congenial smile, "I'm afraid that I don't know what you're talking about. Were you planning to meet somebody here? I think that you may have mistaken me for somebody else."

"Nope, just killin' some time while my boss signs us up to ship some crystals," Soren says, returning smile for smile. "But I have to say I'm not sorry for the mistake. You mind if I join you for dinner?" Soren says with a wink.

"By all means," the man tells Soren, gesturing to the seat opposite. He resumes eating his meal and glances up at the waiter headed in their direction with a security officer at his side. "They might though."

Soren shoves his blaster back into its holster and quickly puts both hands on the table, turning to the waiter saying "Can I get another order of those cheese sticks. They are to die for."

The waiter glances between Soren and his dining partner. "I'm afraid that I'm going to have to ask you to check your sidearm, sir. It's making the other guests uncomfortable," he quietly tells the pilot.

"Of course, sir," Soren says, drawing the weapon from his right hip, barrel down, to present the grip to the security officer. "My apologies to your guests."

The waiter nods happily as Soren hands over his pistol. "The cheese sticks, was it?"

"Yes, please. And a Dark'n'Stormy." Turning back to his dining partner, Soren says "The name's Kovin by the way. You?" (edited)

Hustling back to the ship Kovin looks for the rest of the crew and finds only Stilo. Staring at the ship's chronometer, he looks over to Stilo "We're cutting it close, anymore red tape an' we're gonna miss our window. Where's Soren? Cap took a bureaucratic bullet for us an' we gotta make the most of it."

"Call me Hamza," Soren's dining partner tells him, dabbing at his mouth with a napkin and looking up. "What ship are you here on, Kovin?"

"Just a beater of a small transport really. She ain't nothin' to write home about," Soren says, leaning back in his chair and crossing his ankles, legs out straight, arms crossed over his chest. "So, Hamza, what do you do around here? I was actually tellin' the docking bay guards earlier that I was thinking about jumpin' ship and looking for work here. Find something more stable, ya know? You look like you do well for yourself, so if you have any openings, I'm all ears."

"I'm a private contractor," Hamza explains, "running security jobs. What do you do on your ship?"

"Pilot actually. I used to do supply runs on Aketi, and then did some runs for the mob until they pulled too much shady shit. Then I got into some racing. Was pretty good, to, but the pay wasn't steady, so I went back to supply runs, but in space and with smaller monsters. But I'm handy with a pistol too if you don't need a driver."

"Works tends to be ad hoc around here, but I'll keep you in mind. How long are you shore side?"

"Don't know. Till the captain says shove off, I guess." Soren looks around the room. "How long does it take to fry some cheese sticks?"

Hamza shrugs and slides his compad across the table for Soren to scan. "Give me your contact details and I'll let you know if something comes up."

Tegan J Gaming

Hustling back to the ship Kovin looks for the rest of the crew and finds only Stilo. Staring at the ship's chronometer, he looks over to Stilo "We're cutting it close, anymore red tape an' we're gonna miss our window. Where's Soren? Cap took a bureaucratic bullet for us an' we gotta make the most of it."

Stilo looks over to Kovin, "Not too sure where he went, he just said he was going to a bar. Me and QWERT over here were chattin' abotu he'll probably catch something if he hasn't already. " He looks back at the time, "We gotta make the pickup soon. My new gun can come in handy for this hehe." he gives a smirk and giggle to himself and he imagines the different ways he can test his grappler.

Laughing deeply Kovin adds "Yeah he's probably gonna need a cargo load of penicillin after whatever trouble he's found." Patting stilo on the back "Hopefully we won't need it but after that creds we dropped, it better save the day" Chuckling as he walks back down the ship ramp

Leaning against one of the ramp pistons, Wyvern looks up at Kovin as he exits the Folly. "Soren already left, huh?" The man then shakes his head. "Probably went to find some cheap company and a drink, again." (edited)

"Got those glasses?" One of the guards who escorted Kovin and Wyvern challenges as they head for the hangar door.

Kovin shakes his head "Our buddy ran off to the bar with em. Always borrowing the captain's things. We're gonna go run that down, if ya don't mind?"

The two other guards step in front of the hangar's exit. "What's your 'buddy's name?" The first guard asks, his tone now a touch more interrogative. "I'll put out an APB. Get him back here asap."

A loud and resounding Shit!! Runs through Kovin's head, this is exactly why he let Cap do the talking. Shaking his head "Hey we don't want to put you out, I'm sure you fine folks have better things to do than hunt down some glasses. We'll just head back to the ship and wait for him to get back, knowing him he's probably something deep in a brothel. And you lot probably don't want to burn any bridges there dragging him out, right?"

"Least I can do is ask around," the guard maintains, tapping the comm on his shoulder to make contact with his command post. "We're all over this station. Somebody is bound to have crossed his path. What was the name again?"

Soren scans the pad and waits patiently for his cheese sticks.

Sorens own compad peeps as he also recieves Hamza's contact details and a few moments later a waiter appears with his cheese sticks.

Pausing for a moment he says "Well I warned you, just saying your men are going to get an eyeful if they find old Qwert. Walked in on him once, and didn't sleep right for a week. You sure we can't just go grab em for you and bring him back to the ship? I'd hate to see you all waste so much time on a goose chase."

Wyvern gives the guards a look of, "He's not lying...it was bad" to help sell the bluff. (edited)

The guard shrugs and wanders off to the side, talking quietly on his comm.

Soren attempts to bore Hamza into leaving quickly by regaling him with tales of coming in second place or nearly completing a task but being foiled by someone else's incompetence.

Hamza watches Soren for several moments, penetrating eyes assessing his dinner partner as he talks. "Why are you trying to get rid of me, Kovin?" He asks with mild interest and a touch of amusement.

"All right, I'm sorry. I lied to you earlier. I was planning on meeting a pair of ladies here after they had freshened up. I'm not much for society and I thought it might be politer for you to excuse yourself than to have me shoo you away. They are taking their sweet time about it though. Maybe I should just go and check on them. If you will excuse me?"

Hamza laughs and dabs at his mouth with his napkin. "You asked if you could join me, Kovin. By all means, go check on your ladies. I'm almost finished anyway. Have a good evening. Maybe you'll have better luck than usual tonight."

"Haha, true. Can't blame a guy for tryin' to move some merch huh?" Soren replies, referring back to his initial reason for stopping by. "Take care, Hamza," he says as he down the last of his dark'n'stormy and puts some creds on the table to cover his food and drink. Soren stops by the security officer on is way out to pick up his sidearm and then heads back to the hotel. He knocks on his room door.

Meanwhile, back at the port.... Kas leans back from the screen, throwing his arms out wide as he stretches his back. Closing his eyes he next rolls his head in a large circle to stretch his neck before popping his eyes open and looking around the room, finally bringing them to rest on the sole remaining guard. "This shit is dense as hell, you mind if I take a bit of a break, say 2 hours or so? Give us both a chance to go grab a bite and maybe even a drink?"

Gaius still appears to be sat alone at his table as Soren leaves Etheria. Upstairs in the room, the two girls from the Cabaret are lounging on the bed watching holodramas. Meanwhile, Kas's guard shrugs in response to the captain's request. "Sure thing, boss. This is all for you. You're free to go whenever you want."

Soren describes Hamza to them and asks them if they know anything about him.

Candy glances at Trixie, who glances back at Candy and both girls shrug.

"Yeah, OK, good. Just steer clear of him. He's a creep. Anyway, Trixie, can you go down to Etheria and bring our fourth upstairs?" Soren describes Gaius to her and his table location. He then tells her the pass phrase and asks her to repeat it and the room number back to him. "Easy peasy, right? Then we can all have a little fun when you get back, if you want," Soren says, pulling some narcotics out of his pocket. "Or without...enhancements if that's your preference." (edited)

Several minutes pass with Candy continuing to watch holos, but occasionally glancing over in Soren's direction. "We're still getting paid, right?"

"Sounds good, catch you later." Kas drawls as he scoots out the door and down the hall. Once back on board the Folly, and clear of any prying eyes and ears he finally has a moment to catch up with the rest of the crew. "Alright, I busted out of that hell hole for a bit, someone give me a status update." (edited)

Kyle [Arcadian]

Several minutes pass with Candy continuing to watch holos, but occasionally glancing over in Soren's direction. "We're still getting paid, right?"

"Of course, darlin'. Here's half of your share. Sorry it's been borin' so far. I'll be back in a few. I'm going to go grab us some snacks and ice," Soren says as he heads out into the hall with an ice bucket. Soren looks around for an alcove, a service area, or stairwell to set up and have a good view of the hallway including the door to his room. He eases the pistols in their holsters while double checking their ammo. Hopefully everything goes fine and Trixie brings up their man. But if things went south, he wanted to be ready. (edited)

A short time later, the turbolift chimes and Soren sees Trixie step out with Gaius and lead him to the door of the room. He glances around furtively as she stops and knocks on the door.

Soren waits for Candy to get the door to try and ensure that they are alone.

A moment passes and then the door opens. Trixie quickly enters and Gaius peers left and right, inspecting the interior before he follows. The door closes behind them.

Waiting for another moment to be sure no one is right on their heels, Soren heads back to the room.

Seeing cap Kovin sighs "Not much to report, the paper pusher's renacops have kept us coopt up and & The Way only knows what Soren's gotten himself into. But we got to get workin, can't miss our pick up."

Rick [LE-X21 | Kato | Wulfhelm]

Waiting for another moment to be sure no one is right on their heels, Soren heads back to the room.

The door to the room slides open with a hiss, treating Soren to a view of Gaius's naked backside. The man is stood besides the bed with his pants around his ankles and Trixie knelt in front of him. Candy is sat on a chair across the room with a deathstick in her hand. She glances at Soren and shrugs. Gaius is less unperturbed. His head whips around at the sudden intrusion and he quickly bends to pull his pants back up. "Is this the guy?" He asks Trixie, who nods and wipes her mouth with the back of her hand.

"Hey man, don't let me interrupt you," Soren says, shrugging with a grin. "I'm your pickup, and I thought they might provide a bit of cover for us both. Cover and entertainment if you are so inclined." Soren locks the door behind him and sets the empty ice bucket on a nightstand. "Thanks, Trixie, good work. No trouble from that Hamza guy?"

Trixie shakes her head and pushes herself up off the ground to lounge on the bed. "Didn't see him anywhere." Meanwhile, Gaius fastens his belt and turns, offering Soren his hand to shake. "Gaius Pim, but you knew that already. I think that I'd rather enjoy myself once I'm safe on Sonhandra. What do I call you?"

"Call me Korin," Soren says, shaking his hand. "I had to sign in to get on the promenade. Are we going to be able to just walk off together onto the flight deck or what?"

Gaius sighs. "Probably not," he admits with a shrug. "So what's the play?"

"Good question. I was thinking... actually, wait a minute," Soren replies, thinking better of writing off the two girls without giving them a chance. Trixie had surprised him with her competence so far at least. "Candy, Trixie, if you wanted to smuggle someone off-base without anyone knowing, how would you do it? Is there maybe a way to get him in a shipping crate or maybe a way to get him a fake identity or something?"

Kas frowns as Kovin fills him in and he notices that nearly everyone is on the ship and not out in the field. "So Soren is out there on his own trying to track this guy down?! Nothing could possibly go wrong with that." He rumbles, as hundreds of ways it could go wrong flash through his mind. "Alright, lets get out there and see if we can find them. Knowing Soren he'll be somewhere with women and booze, so let's see if we can't find the seedy part of the entertainment sector."

Rick [LE-X21 | Kato | Wulfhelm]

"Good question. I was thinking... actually, wait a minute," Soren replies, thinking better of writing off the two girls without giving them a chance. Trixie had surprised him with her competence so far at least. "Candy, Trixie, if you wanted to smuggle someone off-base without anyone knowing, how would you do it? Is there maybe a way to get him in a shipping crate or maybe a way to get him a fake identity or something?"

"Oh, Mister Craven smuggles people onto the station all the time!" Candy explains with a vapid nod. "You could ask him."

Smiling broadly, Soren nods encouragingly. "Great idea Candy. Who's Mister Craven and how do I contact him?"

"Why, he's our employer, silly," Candy explains with a giggle, downing her champagne flute.

Shrugging Kovin adds "Maybe, I got odds on em having found some "company"." turning to Stilo "You got a way to rig up our comms so the ears in the sky can't listen in? Either way we gotta find where he's at and get it in gear. Or we're gonna flub our I'm sorry job and get in some real hot water." (edited)

"Thanks, Candy." Pulling out his comm unit, Soren dials Stilo, hoping he's still back on the ship.

Stilo's ears stick up at the opportunity, "I'll give it a shot." He looks over to QWERT, "Hey, Q, can you help me get into their systems?"

Qwert grumbles, saying, "Of course I can. I really do think I am underpaid and ill-used." That last is barely audible as he goes to work. As he finishes tinkering with the comm. system on the ship, it begins beeping. "Uh...I think it's for you, Stilo."

Stilo with a puzzled look on his face goes over to the comm and in a questioning tone says, "Uh, Hello?"

"Stilo? Hey, it's me. I need you guys to go talk to Mister Craven at the Cabaret. Apparently he's the person to talk to about getting our merchandise off station. I've taken care of the acquisition, I just need transport."

"Wow, Soren I'm impressed, and here I thought you were getting an std. I'll pass the message" Stilo, turns off the comms and turns to Kovin, "Did you hear? Soren got the merchandise and we need to talk to a Mister Craven at the Cabaret to transport it." (edited)

Soren puts his comm unit back in a pouch and turns to everyone in the room. "Okay. The rest of the crew are going to take care of arranging transport while we wait here. Who wants to have some fun?"

"Right, Qwert should probably stay here to spin the ship up if we need to make a quick escape, so who's going with me to talk to this Craven guy?" Kas asks as he rises to his feet, subconsciously pulling his signature coat a little tighter around himself.

Kovin stands methodically checking that his blaster and blade were secured as he does. "I'm with ya. But if we get stuck with paperwork again, I'm cutting my way out." (edited)

"If they try to stick me back in that damned room I'll join you."

Stilo straps on his holster, "I need some fresh air too, so I'll tag-along."

"Great, let's get going then." Kas announces as he keys the airlock open. " Who know what kind of chaos Soren is causing out there."

Kas strolls through the airlock and heads towards the guarded door. "Hey guys, it alright if me and the mates pop out for a meal and a drink? I spent so damned long staring at paperwork my eyes are crossing and I need a break." (edited)

Of the four guards present, one glances at another who groans and slumps his shoulders. "Nah-uh-uh," the first guard tells him, "you let their friend go running off on his own and now you have know idea where he is. The rest are getting anklets." The second guard sighs and nods and heads off through a nearby door marked SECURITY, before returning a few moments later with a case of ankle-worn trackers. "Your leg, please," he tells Kas, sliding a chair up to place his foot on.

"What the hell is that?" Kas asks as he takes a step back.

"A tracker, since you're not yet cleared for the promenade," the guard explains, taking a strap from the case and pushing a button on the side of a little box on it. A tiny red light begins to blink.

Kas glances down at the device, his mind already racing to figure out how to either bypass or disable it. Technology is however not something he's in any way shape or form good at, so he quickly comes up blank. I hope to hell one of these other jackasses can hack. He thinks as he lifts his leg and places his foot on the chair. "I don't suppose you've got on in Blue? I've been told that's my color."

The guard stares blankly at Kas, fitting the obviously matt black strap to the Captain's ankle, before looking around to see who's next. "What... is that... ?" The guard asks, glancing down at where Stilo is stood besides Kas.

Stilo looks up at the guard with spite written all over his face, "A superior species, thank you very much. At least that's what the ladies tell me" He looks over to Kas purposefully ignoring the guard, and points his thumb towards the guard, "You believe this guy?" he says with sass in his voice.

"I'll do it myself..." Wyvern grunts as he snatches the anklet and straps it to his right leg. "Can't fault him for not knowing of your superior existence." Wyvern replies back to Stilo with a laugh.

One guard indicates for Stilo to hop up on the chair so that he can have his anklet fitted, while the other inspects Wyvern's to ensure that it is active and locked.

Reluctantly Stilo props up toa chair. "Man you guys really wanna get close to me. I'm flattered, but you guys really aren't my type." Stilo try flexing his legs as much as he can so the anklet is at least a little looser when he relaxes.

Once the anklets are all fitted, Kas and his crew are escorted to a turbolift and released from the same security checkpoint that Soren was brought to.

"Great, thanks for the help gents!" Kas announces with a wave as the doors to the lift slide shut. As soon as they're sealed he glances over his shoulder and addresses the others in a hushed whisper. "Who's got an idea to get us out of these?"

Stilo whispers back at Kas, "I have an idea but it's really risky. We should think of a plan in case it goes horribly wrong, alarms sound, shots fired, the whole mess."

Wyvern shakes his head. "Is this another one of those crazy plans that gets one of us shot?" he whispers in response.

A slight chuckle comes out as he whispers back, "Not unless we fuck it up, but that's always an option. We got to meet up with Soren first before we can put anything in motion." (edited)

Leading the group from the elevator Kas stops them once there is a bit more traffic, hoping that they might provide cover for any potential surveilance. "So what's the plan, cut it off?"

Stilo looks around for a second to make sure no one is listening, "Cutting would be too risky, I was thinking of just hacking into the thing so it releases without triggering an alarm or going dark. Not sure how successful I'd be or even if I could do it again. If only I could break free, I can give you guys mine, and then move around freely with Soren. The issue comes from the chance the alarm does trigger, how are we gonna book it to the ship, passed the guards, with Soren and the merchandise?" (edited)

"As much as I'd love to have us all free, I think just one is probably best. If only one alarms we can always try to write it off as some sort of malfunction." Kas adds as he nods in agreement. "What do you need to do this?"

Stilo looks to Kas and answers, "All I need is space and privacy." As he says that Grookey appears from his back onto his shoulder with a pair of wirecutters from Stilo's pack. "Glad I brought him along, I may need an assistant for this and guards aren't any wiser." Stilo has a flashback a few moments ago when they were preparing to leave the ship. Stilo hunches over to Grookey to explain to him, "Listen Grook, we're gonna try to get passed the guards, and they won't be so willing to let you pass unless they think you're nothing but a harmless pet", Grookey's head tilts to the side as he listens to what Stilo is telling him, Stilo continues to explain, "Dumb and cute. That's what we're going for, try to stay out of sight as much as possible. I'm gonna pack light so you can probably hide in there if you need to." Back to the present, "Listen, we'll get a table at the cantina and then ill go to an empty stall in the bathroom, and hopefully I come back out more relieved then usual." (edited)

Kovin nods "Best plan we got, I'll keep look out & make sure you're not disturbed while you work."

"Sounds good, let's see if we can't find us a shady looking one. Then if the guards show up for us, we might be able to find some built in backup." Kas offers as be leads the group off, his eyes scanning for the type of place his smuggler friends would enjoy hanging out in.

'Lavender' is a neon-lit bar on the inner side of the station's promenade ring. The simultaneously low-key, yet vibrant locale castches Kas's eye from a distance as he leads his crew down the stark metallic thoroughfare.

"This one looks promising. In you go boys." He announces as he directs the others inside and takes the opportunity to check their six in an attempt to ensure they've not been followed.

Kas doesn't notice a tail - why would the Guild need to follow them? After all, they know exactly where every one of them is.

The girl behind the bar has a pink bob and a mirrored visor. She turns her attention to Kovin and Wyvern as they head towards the bar. "What can I get you boys?" She purrs.

Kovin strides up to the bar and takes an angled seat on a stool. Keeping both the entrance & rest room door in his peripherals, with a glance to the girl he says "I'll take a whiskey neat. Need it after all the damn paperwork."

"Same here." Wyvern motions as well to the girl, leaning against the bar, keeping an eye on the rest of the bar. "Think the little guy can manage?" He asks Kovin just before their drinks slide across the bartop. (edited)

The barmaid pours out the two tumblers, pausing to take Kovin and Wyvern's credits, before turning to serve the man besides them, who wears a trench coat and a wide-brimmed hat. "Cheers, Io," he rasps, raising his glass to her.

Stilo eyes the bathroom and looks around make sure no one suspicious is eyeing them. He gives Kovin a tap on the back as he makes his way over to the loo. He finds an empty stall and lays his pack on top of the seat lid. "Alright it's now or never. You ready for this Grook?" The little monkey nods as he hands him a screwdriver.

Stilo tinkers with the anklet for a few long moments, working slowly and methodically to avoid triggering the anti-tamper countermeasures. Thanks to his unusual anatomy, the device isn't really sized properly for his procyonid legs and he's able to extract his foot without opening the band.

Stilo wiggles his foot out, "Hell yeah. Complete success, Grook" As he gives Grookey a hi-five. "Alright, time for phase two." He puts the anklet in his pack along with Grookey and walks back over to the bar. He nudges and then quietly speaks to Kovin, "Hey Kovin. It worked. Here." Grookeys sneakily passes the the anklet from the bag into Stilo's hand. "Keep it on you, an I'll go over to meet Soren."

Stilo pulls out his comm and connects to Soren, "Hey Soren, It's Stilo. We've run into a bit of a complication."

"What's up, buttercup?"

Stilo pinches the bridge of his nose as he thinks, Did I just hear that right? He then takes a sigh and responds, "Seems like the rest of the crew drank a little too much to move. I'm the only one that can hold my liqour around here, so I'm gonna go see if I can get everyone to the ship in one piece." He hopes Soren understands his message, as he goes to leave for the Cabaret.

What the fuck did that mean? Soren thinks to himself. Well, sounds like he's got it under control. Maybe.

When Stilo first lays eyes on the Cabaret's dark and grimy façade on the inner rim of the promenade ring, he immediately understands where he is. This is a sight that Stilo has seen a hundred times before on cities and stations across the sector. The peeling paint and muted colours only add to the sense of familiarity. The entrance is a short passageway painted in black and a large, muscled man on the door looks down at the racoon-like xeno and arches an eyebrow.

Stilo looks back at the bouncer, "What? Nothing wrong with having a little fun." He looks to the bouncer's response waiting to see if he needs to reveal who he's looking for.

The bouncer shrugs wordlessly and nods his head towards the door, indicating for Stilo to head inside. Beyond is a large open area set up like the establishment's namesake cabaret. A stage dominates the far side of the room with many round tables littering the area in front of it and a bar on the near end of the room. Various patrons occupy seats watching barely-dressed girls dance on the stage, while others serve drinks or perch in the customers' laps.

Stilo approaches the bar and asks the barkeep, "I'm meeting a friend, goes by Mister Craven, have you seen him around?"

The woman behind the bar is almost preternaturally tall with long, slender limbs and a strangely elongated torso. She leans forwards over the bar to look down at Stilo, a rabbit tattoo dancing on her arm in the dim light. "BUBBLES," she yells across the room and a heavy set black man dressed only in black clothing and wrap-around shades turns to look at her from his position stood in the shadows near the edge of the room besides an inobtrusive door. "Rabbit wants to see the boss." 'Bubbles' grunts and opens the door, beckoning to Stilo to head inside.

Stilo retorts at the barkeep, "I'm not a rabbit! Raccoon, get it right!" Stilo then walks over to the open door passing by Bubbles, "Thanks, Bubbles. At least someone is showing respect." He then walks into the room waiting to see what this Mister Craven looks like?

Bubbles shows Stilo down a passage to a door labelled 'Management' and knocks before opening it. Inside is an office, behind the desk of which sits a gaunt-faced man with long brown hair and a neatly trimmed moustache. "...and who might you be?" He asks, peering over his desk at Stilo.

Stilo takes a seat and looks at the man, "I take it you're Mister Craven? Mind if I call you Craven?" A brief pause as Stilo continue to speak witout caring for the other person's response, "You see Craven, we've got some 'fragile cargo' if you know what I mean, and we need to transport it out of here, and I'm told you're the guy to talk to that can assist us. Is that right?"

"I do," Craven tells Stilo pointedly, "and I might be, for somebody with the appropriate means."

Stilo is happy to get a positive response that could move the plan forward but worries about the response to his next question, "Good. Define 'appropriate'?"

Craven's expression turns contemplative. "One unit?" He asks. "Any special considerations? When do you need the cargo shipped?"

Stilo nods and replies, "Yeah, one medium sized organic. We want it kept in one piece and still breathing." Stilo a bit nervous to revel the time crunch for this delivery quickly exclaims, "We need this done ASAP, within the next hour ideally." He waits to see Craven's response to the short-notice time crunch.

"Ah," Craven notes, "well that will cost you extra. It's not easy to get the necessary arrangements made so quickly." He rises and crosses to a cupboard from which he retrieves a metal case, before tossing it across the desk to Stilo. "Can you fill that with credits? Full sticks."

Stilo holds the case and thinks to himself, This is gonna make us broke. Staying longer is risky but it might be cheaper. Stilo looks back at the man, "Can I get a smaller case if we make it within 3 hours?" Stilo looks to see if he gets a better deal.

Craven smirks and takes a seat once more, folding his arms and leaning back in his chair. "Perhaps. Would you be open to other forms of payment?"

Stilo confused and concerned, he reflexively tightens up as he asks, "What forms of payment are we talkin'?"

"Credits are good," Craven admits with a slight nod of his head, "but on Glimmer true wealth is measured in Vosian crystals. Get your hands on some of those for me and I'll get your friend off world.

Stilo thinks for a moment, Shit, shit, shit, how are we supposed to get Vosnian crystals when most of us are being tracked?! Stilo puts resolve and faux confidence into his next statement, "Alright, tell you what, you make the preparations for transport and I'll be back before midnight with enough crystals or credits to make it worth it?" (edited)

"I do hope so," Craven tells Stilo with a shark-like smile. "BUBBLES, show this gentleman out. He has a very busy evening ahead of him. Midnight, Mr. 'Fragile Cargo', and don't even dream of trying to cross me. You'll find my bite worse than my bark."

Stilo walks out and gives a finger gesture as he walks out to show that he heard Craven and understood. As the door closes behind him he briskly walks out the bar, Shit, shit, shit, we're fuckin' in for it now. As he leaves bar, he begins to pick up his pace as he makes his way back to the crew. As he arrives back the bar he left the crew, he hesitates to confront them and let them now the 'conditions' for the arrangement. He sees them come into view and waves as he approaches.

Wyvern waves down Stilo, handing him a glass as he apporaches. "Soooo, how'd it go?" he says mockingly, almost expecting it to have not gone as well as the little guy planned. But Wyvern was at least a little hopeful that something was accomplished.

"What's the word?" Kas adds as he returns the wave with a nod.

Stilo takes the glass and chugs it down, "Well, I can't say it went bad but it's not good." Stilo looks around to see if anyone is listening in before he continues explaining the situation, "We made a deal, he'll make the transport preparations by midnight and as payment we need to fill a can with about 3 full credsticks, or ..." he leans in closer and whispers, "vosnian crystals"

"Well shit, I guess we need to steal some crystals." Kas deadpans. "Like that wasn't going to happen already, right?"

Stilo sighs, "Yeah looks like it but we're not getting any crystals with these trackers on us. I got mine off, so who wants to be the next test?"

Eagerly nodding Kovin quietly says "I'll play the Guinea pig if it get's this thing off me."

Wyvern shakes his head at the oversized rodent. "Good job, Stilo..." He says sarcastically. —————————————— "They'll probably lock us up when we return anyway. We didn't exactly follow what they told us to do and come straight back, so we might as well get this over with quickly."

Stilo looks over at Kovin with a slightly sinister grin, "Alright then, meet me in my laboratory. " he then walks over to the bathroom stalls. (edited)

Kovin enters the stall with Stilo despite the strnage stares of others nearby. Stilo quickly gets to work on Kovins anklet. The mechanisms are the same however, Stilo didn't realize how much Kovin's bigger ankle would be a problem. Stilo successfully slips it off Kovin's ankle with a hard pull, but he realized the tension cause the alarm to start triggering, "Shit, shit, shit." Stilo Quickly takes his screwdriver and jams into some pins on the inside of the electronics, "Quikc Kovin, squeeze the anklet closed, it's about the trip the alarm." Kovin quickly grabs on to the anklet and holds it together tight. Stilo briefly shorts the system to stop the alarm from going off. "Shit I bet they saw it disappear for a moment." He takes a sigh of relief as the immediate threat seems to subside. "Alright I have not idea how long it'll last before it sounds off. I'm going to try and seal it together tight and hope for the best. But we better move quickly in case this doesn't last."

Wyvern, who had been patiently taping his foot like he had to go badly, but the stall was occupied, swaps in with Kovin as he exits. "Let's get this over with quickly, Stilo." He says as he pulls out his own set of tools to help the creature with the anklet.

Working together, Stilo and Wyvern pry the anklet off of the big merc's leg with a soft pop. Once the procedure has been repeated for Kas, the four scoundrels head out of the bar in search of Soren, their cargo and a case of Vosian crystals. Just another score in the Procyon sector. --- END ---