Bob's GURPS Traveller Campaign

The Lady Macbeth is an older Empress Marava class far trader. It was old when Captain Fredericks (Nadina Rafik's uncle) originally purchased it and had hap-hazard maintenance and upgrades during his the years he owned and operated the ship. After Captain Fredericks death, he left the ship to his niece Nadina Rafik.

Captain Rafik recruited a crew and took possesion of the ship. In their years together aboard the ship, they have made numerous improvements and upgrades...

The ship has several hidden compartments:
A large compartment in the cargo hold that is recessed into the fuel tank area.
A small compartment in the floor of the cockpit hides several hold-out weapons
A hidden safe in the Captain's quarters
Two large compartments on the outer hull of the ship. These are unpressurized.

The crew was able to obtain a jump drive and maneuver drive upgrade using cutting edge Darrian technology in repayment for doing some work for the Darrian intelligence service in their cold war with the Sword Worlds.
The Maneuver Drive has been improved to 2g Acceleration.
The Jump Drive can make one Jump 3 or 3 Jump 2 with the standar fuel supply. Bart has also developed a large fuel bladder that can put in cargo hold (taking up most of the space) that will allow the ship to nearly double its fuel capacity.

The two turrets are armed as follows:
Port Turret (Mr. Caine): 2 x 450 MjLaser, 1 Sandcaster
Starboard Turret (Ben Rogers): 1 x 450 MjLaser, 1 Sandcaster, 1 Missile Launcher (currently ship has 29 SIM-10 missiles)

Other Ship's Equipment:
The ship has an airraft of questionable provenance that has served the crew well. In addition the crew has aquired an armored all terrain vehicle.
The ship has x low-passage/cryo sleep beds. One has been commandeered by Mr. Caine for storage of some of the finer wines he has purchased.
There is a well equipped and maintained medical bay (using one of the passenger cabins) that includes an auto-doc.

Nadina Refik comes from an average, middle-class family, from an average planet in the Empire. Nothing very remarkable about her family, nothing stands out, there is nothing that distinguishes them in anyway. Her parents preferred it that way.

The only person in the family of any note was her mother’s brother who scandalized the family by becoming an independent far trader. Uncle Fredericks was somewhat a maverick in her family. He was a black sheep. Nadina could never figure out why her family considered being a far trader was such a bad thing. On those rare occasions that he visited, he would regale her with tales of adventure and space travel. She was sure that her mother and father breathed a sign of relief when he left go to back into space. According to them she should apply herself to having just a normal life and trying to blend in to society.

The thought of trying to blend in was a stifling. She seemed to excel in getting herself into trouble, just because it was there. She was continually cautioned that she was too impulsive and that she needed to think before she acted. Uncle Eugene seemed to get some sort of perverse delight at the rings she ran her parents though. He once told her they were birds of a feather.

She went to college, and discovered that she had a way with people. She had barely passing grades, because she was always out enjoying the company of people. She seemed to have a natural way with people, especially those of the opposite sex. With a smile she could just about get anything she wished. Sometimes it seemed to her that she almost knew what people were going to say before they said it, and used this to her advantage.

For a while, she did the beauty pageant thing. She actually won several on her planet, but being Miss Peach Days wasn’t all it was cut out to be, but it provided the scholarships she needed to complete her schooling, since because of her grades, her father refused to provide anymore funding.

She chafed under her father’s continual rules about blending in and not causing a scene, and soon headed out on her own. She drifted from job to job. She excelled in the merchant skills and in administration, but sitting at a desk was not how she wanted to spend her life. There were just too many laws and rules and regulations. She wanted to be free of the stifling society in which she was raised.

She had made up her mind to go into space as a crewman. She was, like her uncle before a “black sheep”. She signed on with a large space-trading firm and learned the basics that she would need to survive in the vast ocean of the stars.

She was sad to learn of her Uncle’s passing. She was urged by family members to sell the Lady Macbeth which her uncle and willed to her and settle down into a real normal planet side life. With this far trader can an opportunity to explore the universe, and to make her own rules. She didn’t know a whole lot about scanners and piloting and running a spaceship, but she did know the markets and trends, and knew with the right crew that she could make this work. She was going to give it a shot. Shake the dice and let them roll. The worse that could happen would be far better than being an average, normal, dull planet side work-a-holic with no dreams and no life. Better to go out in a blaze than die in complete and utter boredom.

Now all she had to do was find the “right” crew…

"Is 'Schmee' a member of the Travelers Aid Society?" the captain queries.

"Umm. Well, no. I wouldn't say that. As you know the society is rather selective about its membership. No, Schmee is something of a friend of the society. Perhaps even more of a business partner than a friend." the chairman explains.

The captain does not seem enthused with the vague answer. "I am not used to meeting potential crewmembers, let alone bridge crew, in imperial prisons" the captains responds.

"Of course, captain. I understand completely, but you must admit that Schmee is a highly qualified navigator, practically off the testing charts. This individual, in particular, has a great many useful skills that a captain of your caliber might put to good use. Schmee is capable on the ground, with computers, sciences, and has experience as a first officer on what many would call a highly successful starship."

The two men continue walking down a damp concrete corridor until the chairman finally motions to a metal door. Going through, they find themselves in a small room occupied by one other individual as well as a large two-way mirror looking down on a prison common room.

The chairman immediately moves to introduce the captain to the Dr. Kauphart, the prison psychologist.

"I was just telling the captain about some of Schmee's capabilities" the chairman continues. "I am certain you can verify that Schmee is not only intelligent, but well educated."

Dr. Kauphart smirks slightly at this last remark. "Yes, Schmee is an extraordinary specimen of intelligent life. Although I am not qualified to comment on his technical abilities, I can tell you that he is very bright and offer an opinion on his personality."

"Yes, your point is well taken, but about the prison" the captain presses not allowing the conversation to be diverted.

"Well, yes. We do need to clear that up. Best to just lay the cards out on the table, so to speak." The chairman admits. You see Exbrit, or Schmee, was the first officer of the Midnight Shadow."

The captain takes a seat next to the two-way mirror, rubbing her forehead.

"I see you have heard the news reports concerning this somewhat notorious ship." The chairman continues. "As you are almost certainly aware, the Midnight Shadow was captured three months ago. The problem is that all hard evidence was destroyed before the ship could be boarded. The courts have evidence, of course, sensor readings and testimonials from pirated ships. But, what we really need to make a conviction stick is a first hand account of the Midnight Shadows operation. As first officer, Schmee has that information; the flight path over the last year, what ships the Shadow had dealings with, the individual crimes against crewmembers. The rest of the crew is very tight lipped, as things stand now we cannot even charge the captain because we have no evidence as to how long he has held that position. Schmee is willing to come clean, but he wants a new identity. Something similar the old witness relocation program. I am certain you can now understand the Travelers Aid Society's position in this. A big part of our charter is the promotion of legitimate trade within the empire. We at the society feel that Schmee is the key to the prosecutions case."

The captain had closed her eyes sometime during the chairman's explanation. She opens them looking at the psychologist.

Taking the que, Dr. Kauphart begins: "As I was saying earlier captain, Schmee is an extraordinary specimen of intelligent life. True to his races genetic traits, he is somewhat conniving - always trying to take advantage of a situation. He has demonstrated a 'bully' trait when he is in control, however, he quickly backs down when he is at a disadvantage. He is quite industrious, and wastes few minutes in the day. He has integrated himself into the prison society in a remarkably short period of time."

"Are you two suggesting that I take on a bridge crew member because he has a remarkable ability to blend in with the criminal element?" the captain asks.

"Not at all," answers the doctor. "Then again, I guess I am," he says chuckling to himself. "Honestly captain, I don't think you will have that much trouble controlling Schmee. It is a simple matter of establishing bounds. You need to let him know that you are in charge. Once shown where he fits in, I doubt that Schmee will be much of a problem. We believe that Schmee was first officer aboard the Midnight Shadow for about a year. All indications are that he performed his duties quite well. Let's face it captain, a pirate ship can put some intense demands on a navigator as well as a first officer. Might I also suggest a carrot and stick approach, a reward for good behavior, and a punishment for stepping out of line? If you can somehow link his success with your own, I think you will be quite pleased with his performance.

"Yes I believe I get your point. By the way, which one is he," remarks the captain looking through the pane of glass."

"Right down there," says the doctor pointing. "The short ugly one giving orders to his bruiser of a bodyguard. You don't see many Goblyns off their homeworld; it's actually been something of an opportunity for me to study him.

Susan posted some interviews in the ship's log. The interviews are with various crew members after about a year on the ship. Here is her write up of the interview with Schmee.

Nadina knocked politely on the door to the room Hard and Schmee shared. She knew Schmee was in there. She had watched him enter about 15 minutes before. He opened up the door, wrapped in what would pass for a towel. She averred her eyes. She had just seen more than she ever wished to see of the little goblin. She might admire his mind; she just wasn’t into cross species breeding.

“Schmee, I would like to invite you into my cabin for dinner tonight. I have some things I wish to talk about. Would say 6:00 give you enough time to get ready?”

“Sure Captain. I can be ready by then," he says in a gravely voice.

“Well then, I’ll see you there.”

Schmee was puzzled as to why the Captain had asked him to dinner in her room. The Crew usually ate together in the crew’s common room, and not in separate areas except Bart who usually ate in Engineering. It must be something she didn’t want the other crew members to over hear. Or perhaps she was planning something she didn't want others to see. Nadina wasn't particularly sneaky, but then so far neither was the invitation. He briefly wondered how he could manipulate this to his advantage, assuming it he wasn't the one being manipulated.

Schmee became a flurry of activity as soon as the Captains footsteps receded. His mind raced while he finished dressing.

No way she could know...she's a telepath, you idiot...but how much does she know...where are my damn shoes...where's Hard...Where the HELL is BEN...Ben doesn't know computers...where's Hard...it was for the good of the ship...and me...but definitely in the best interest of the ship...stand up strait...speak clearly...turn this to my advantage...run…get off the ship...we're in space...ok, cancel running...smile...but not too much teeth...mouthwash...what do they know...check the computer...hurry, don't keep the Captain waiting...breath slowly...where's my knife...wait, the Captain has a gun...leave the knife...lock picks...hide my lock picks...check computer...6:00, she's purposely cutting me short on time.

Before leaving his cabin Schmee logs on to the ships computer to see if anyone has accessed his files, smiling he turns and rushes out of the cabin and down the hallway.

Nadina was seated at her desk with two sets of books. She slowly closed them and nonchalantly pushed them to the side. She motioned towards the table.

“I asked Caine to fix your favorite foods. He refused muttering something about road kill, so I guess you have to indulge me and share my favorites instead.”

“My pleasure Captain”, Schmee grins while glancing from side to side. Sitting down he brushes the inside of his leg making sure the lock picks are still taped in place. No place for Hard or Ben to hide in here. That's good.

“I’m going to be direct with you.” She looked at him as she ate something that looked like cooked meat and noodles. “I want your opinion on how you think the crew is functioning. I also would like you to tell me more about yourself. I am risking my ship and my crew to those pirate friends of yours. While aboard my ship, what do you seek to accomplish? Are you just seeking money so you can retire somewhere on a posh moon in secrecy? Don’t think that I don’t know you would sell me and this crew out if the price was big enough. Time may get a little rough with Section Sigma and your pirate friends on our tails.” She looked at him shrewdly. “Don’t think for a second that if you sell me out, that I wouldn’t do the same favor for you. I would think it in your best interest that you keep me safe. Do we understand each other? I’ll scratch your back if you’ll scratch mine. Now enough with the threats, you are a good crewmember and your ideas have helped this ship many times. I am offering a bonus for your sacrifices and the use of your quick agile mind. I like the way you think.”

Schmee gulps several times during the lecture, and turns slightly pale at the implication of being ratted out to the crew of his old ship. "I think we understand each other, Captain," he says sounding like he has sawdust in his throat. As he continues to speak he obviously has a hard time looking Nadina in the eye. For a few seconds now and then he forces himself to meet her gaze, but soon he is once again stealing glances around the cabin. "Well, to take your...concerns... one at a time. As I've said before Captain, The Lady Macbeth is crewed by misfits, and I'm fitting right in. I think the crew is functioning very well. We've come through some tight spots together. I'm the best navigator you'll meet and quite possibly the best mathematician as well. And, as you know, I’m handy with computer software and sensors.

Hard is a damn good pilot, possibly the best I've ever met. Probably as good as...Well...he’s good at sensors. Better than me, and I'm not used to admitting that kind of thing. Hard is also tough and damn handy to have on your side in a dark alley, if you catch my drift.”

“You're doing great at handling the finances. The Lady Macbeth is bringing in heavy profits, more than I would have thought an Empresses Marva Class far trader was capable of.”

“Ben isn't much use on a trader ship, but then we get a lot of our profits from extra curricular activities. And in those cases Ben is un-expendable.”

“The Kid is mostly dead weight; takes up everyone’s time training her. But I guess I consider her a long term investment." Schmee stutters a bit as he sees the Captains frown growing. "I know how you feel about the girl, but you asked my opinion. I get along with her fine; I'm just saying she ain't contributing to the profit margin.”

“The same pretty much goes for the Doctor. Nice guy to see an exhibition with, but his legs are still a little wobbly when Hard engages the hyperdrive. There was the time he patched me up after that Kree art theft. So he comes in handy.”

“Bart scares me some. He's an engineering genius; we all know that. But his landing gear doesn’t fully extend, if you know what I mean. Still, he's a misfit and he does his job and then some. I doubt you can any find two engineers who could keep up with him. So overall, I'm happy with the crew. Or to put it another way, I haven't met the spacer I would want to have replace them."

"About me, huh." I figured you made up your mind when the travelers aid society explained the situation to you. I used to be a math major back on Hanstruus. I was working on my doctorate, specialized in application of math to astrophysics. A group of us went out on a field trip. Big grant from the Imperium to study the dynamics of this solar system.... Marqueet. Marqueet is nearing the end of its life, getting close to going nova. So the size and gravity of the star varies and this plays hell with the orbits of the planets and moons in the system. So we're going to study this. Attempt to make some predictions about the randomness of the gravity fluctuations and how much time the old broad has left. There were 4 Goblyns and 10 or 11 humans. I was an assistant to a Goblyn professor, and it was to be my doctoral thesis. And then pirates showed up. And a lot of people were killed, and a lot of people were captured. Let's just say I survived and leave it at that. I had a few chances to get out; I admit that. But, whenever those chances came up, things we're going pretty smooth, making good money, seeing the galaxy, living on the edge. And when things were going lousy there wasn't much opportunity to say your good byes.

"Yea, you’re risking the ship to the crew of the Midnight Shadow. No point lying on that subject. I can tell you something about them, just so you know what we’re up against. But, your probably going to wish I’d left you in the dark."

Captain, Aldahad Barnes, is a natural leader, charismatic and forceful. He is generally able to get his way with conversation. It was not uncommon for him to talk his way past patrols or give an explanation as to why his transponder was not on. He is also a great strategist and a damn good pilot. And finally being a pirate, a strong Combatant.

Chief Engineer Claus Brohanson is a big man and a very mean individual. He isn't much of an engineer but was given the position because of his ability to "motivate" the better engineers under him. His real talent is in combat. Brohanson is a bloodthirsty killer. He was in charge of countless boarding parties, most of them massacres. He has a bad temper and is the one I’m most afraid of seeing in a dark alley. There will be not fast talking this man.

Miriam Walker, aka Whisper is an ex-corporate assassin. She did most of Barnes dirty work on the ground and occasionally on board ship amongst the crew. She is silent and deadly. She was also a member of boarding parties, usually acting independent. Whisper was also the best gunner on board the Midnight Shadow. She certainly rivals Ben, although exact abilities are hard to estimate. There is a reasonable chance she didn't go to prison because of a lack of evidence. Most of her crimes were private affairs. Perhaps she had a hand in the prison break. She would also be very effective at rooting out my identity. Generally she wasn't the type to hold a grudge though, too professional. At least if she finds me it will be over quickly and most likely I won't feel a thing.

"I suppose I've found what I'm looking for. We're bringing in good money. Not as good as a notorious pirate ship, but then the risks are a lot easier to stomach. I don't think I would do well hidden away with a lot of money. I tend to get myself into trouble, best I keep moving. I dream of having my own ship, a real beauty; decked out with all the highest technology. Able to slip past Imperium blockades, smuggle contraband. But that's just a fantasy. The reality is not many people are going to trust a Goblyn but, there's a whole slew of them willing to sell one out. You can open doors I can't, Captain. I know that much. And you got a head for trading, fact is every time I hit the market they overcharge me, we both know that. I think this arrangement suits me fine."

"Sell you out Captain? Think on that for a minute. Who am I going to sell you out to? Some pirate, section sigma... some slave trader? And what do I get out of it? A bullet in the back of the head, those people...pirates, section sigma, and slave traders ain't going to think twice about spacing a goblyn.”

Time to spill it, Schmee thought. She either knows or she doesn't. If she knows, then I'm likely to be gulping vacuum if I don't come clean. If she doesn't... well I'll try to make it sound like it's in the ships interest, spin it to my favor. "I've been doing some programming Captain. I've modified the ships graphics program. I can now use it to encrypt and hide data, primarily those sensor logs Hard's been working on so diligently. As a matter of fact, I took the liberty of backing up all those files. These backups are all hidden within movie files in my account. I thought we might be able to trade some of the sensor logs we recorded going through the sword worlds to the Darrians. Might convince them to part with some of that advance tech of theirs. Also, I've modified the chess program in my account to do complete file wipes. So if we want to erase a file on the computer we can do it without leaving any trace of its existence." Schmee smiled broadly, attempting to charm the Captain with a positive edge on the confession. But really it looked like a big pointed teeth grin.

The captain ran her hand through her black hair, caught a stray strand and absently wrapped it around her fingers. She sat back in her chair and looked at Schmee with dark eyes. Schmee wondered if she was reading his mind right now. Could she see how he had spun the information? Was he going to get thrown out of the air lock? Maybe he should have brought his knife after all. He patted his leg. At least he still had his lock picks.

She nodded to herself, as if coming to a decision. “If you ever do anything that harms this ship or any of the crew. I will slap you in a tube and leave you on some backwater planet to the tender mercies of the locals. However, I find you a valuable member of my crew and as such until you truly cross the line you are afforded the same opportunities and privileges as everyone else.”

“I would be crazy to think that you told me everything about your past. We all have things in out past that we do not want revealed. We will leave the past in the past. BUT, if we run into your enemies, any and all information you have will be necessary. They sound like people I want nothing to do with. They make the people we’ve dealt with so far seem like saints.”

“Now sit back and relax. I’m not going to throw you out the airlock.” Nadina looked at the food on her plate. “Looks like the food has gone cold.” She shook her head ruefully. “Caine will have our hides if we let this go to waste.” She picked at it with a fork. We have three options. “We reheat it, throw it out the airlock or eat it cold.” She looked at the Goblyn and winked. “I’m all for smuggling it to the air lock and pitching it.”

Nadina was not surprise when the goblyn opted to eat it cold.

He is dressed, like most spacers on leave, in a combination of civilian and old military surplus clothing. He is carrying a military sidearm in the underarm holster favored by Imperial bridge command crews. You judge him to be about 5' tall and maybe 120 pounds, on the small end for a Vargr.

You approach his table and see his ears prick up as you get close. He doesn't say anything, but reaches up and loosens his sidearm in its holster. As you come around the table he looks up at you, his nostrils flaring as he stares without saying anything. You introduce yourself and he points to the chair across from him.

Looking at his eyes you see a slightly haunted look in them, but he politely asks you to sit down. He exchanges pleasantries, and then hands over the chip containing his service record and qualification certificates. You slot the chip into your reader, and the Vargr returns to his meal. You've always been a little thrown off by the way the Vargr lap their drinks up, but he seems neater and quieter than most.

You glance at his record, and then become engrossed. Hard Gveg'h service record shows a steady progression through the ranks and indicates an officer that was well thought of in the Imperial Navy, with a mustering out rank of Lieutenant Commander. Looks like he had a good career until 12 years ago, when the dreadnought he was serving on was destroyed during the Fifth Frontier war by the Zhodani and he was captured.

Lieutenant Commander Gveg'h spent almost 2 years on a Zhodani re-education world, before an Imperial Commando team was able to liberate him and the other surviving inmates. He left the service shortly thereafter, not surprising since the Imperial Navy has a record of not trusting anyone who had been a Zhodani captive with any kind of command position.

His career after leaving the service has several gaps in it, but he had served on merchant ships similar to The Lady Macbeth in the past.

His certifications are impressive as well. He has the highest possible rankings in sensor and communications operations, and is also a competent starship pilot and astrogator. He has additional certifications in electronics and computer programming. Exactly what you are looking for...

Susan posted some interviews in the ship's log. The interviews are with various crew members after about a year on the ship. Here is her write up of the interview with Hard.

Captain Rafik enters the bridge and looks directly at you. “Hey Hard, I want you to come to my quarters tonight for dinner. Just have some things I’d like to talk over with you. Say about, 1700 hours?” She nods not expecting an answer and leaves the bridge area.

You scratch your head and wonder what that was about. The captain has never invited anyone into her room for dinner before. You wonder what is up. Seeing as how you don’t feel you have much choice, you push the matter aside with a mental note to show up promptly on time.

You knock on her door promptly at 1700 hours. The Captain looks rather laid back in a ship’s jumpsuit. Her manner is relaxed as she waves you in. “Ah, Hard, you right on time.” She smiles and motions towards the table, which according to your nose seems to have your favorite foods among some other dishes.

You are slightly suspicious that she knows your favorite foods and wonder briefly if she at some point has read your mind. You hackles rise up slightly at the thought.

“I hope you don’t mind.” She says as she sits down at the table and motions for you to do the same. “I asked Caine to whip up your favorites; I figure if this is a “Captain Mess” it might as well have foods that you like.”

Your hackles lay back down. The Captain has always maintained that she never used her special gifts on the crew. But sometimes you just have to wonder.

She makes some small talk to put you at your ease. At the back of your mind, you still wonder why she asked you to dinner and you are waiting for the shoe to drop. Near the end of the meal, the mood gets more serious.

“I just want to get to know my crew better.” She says almost in answer to your pervious thought. I just want to know that if your job here is all that you wanted. Is there anything else you want to do? Are you content wandering the stars with pirates and Section Sigma on our tails?” Then she asks a question you didn’t particularly want to hear. “Is there anything I can do to improve at my job and how I run this ship?”

Being former Military, you decide to go ahead and give her the “briefing” she is looking for.

“I feel that you need to be more capable on the bridge” Hard says is an authorative manner. “Your piloting is sub par. I don't believe that you know how to use the sensors. I'm sure that Schmee doesn't want you to plot any Navigational courses.”

He continued to rattle on. “Also there is the matter of combat. For your own good learn how to defend yourself, and practice with some other weapons. Captain your a beautiful woman, but I feel you rely on your looks to much.”

“I’m just an old space dog, and if my manner seems condescending I apologize. One tends to get gruff after years of service in the military. Are we finished now? I’ve got bridge matters to attend to.”

Ignoring his look of discomfort, Nadina pressed on. "Hard, I rely on you a lot. I knew when I took ownership of this spacecraft, there were many things I could not do. I have made an effort to learn some more skills in piloting, but I will never reach your level of training, as for sensors. I wouldn't begin to know where to start. However, my skills do allow us to run this ship at a profit. I hired you and Schmee to fly this bucket of bolts for me. And you both to an outstanding job of it."

“Thank you for your honesty. However, is there anything else you would like to do as a member of my crew? Are you content to just fly the Lady Macbeth, or do you someday want to own your own ship? The crew has become sort of like a family and I just want to make sure you are content here.”

“I am content to pilot the Lady Macbeth, and NO I don't wish to own my own ship.”

“38 interviews and still no one has even applied for the doctor’s position. I just can’t compete with cushy dirtside jobs.” Captain Rafik sighed to herself. “Just one more applicant to talk to and I can call it a day. He’s been waiting almost two hours for his turn. At least he’s patient.”

She stepped to the doorway. “Next?”

The last applicant slowly unfolded himself from the chair near the hallway entrance. His height was accentuated by his thin build, thin almost to the point of gauntness. His clothes, while expensive, were rumpled and were hand-mended in places. He stooped to retrieve a bulky medkit and another meter-long cylindrical case and approached the office door.

“I’m Captain Nadina Rafik. Please have a seat in the office.” As the captain extended her hand in greeting, the thin man startled her by addressing her with a graceful bow before taking her hand.

“Thank you very much for seeing me today, captain” the thin man replied in a soft baritone, “My name is Dr. Harcore Caliban.”

“Good Lord, I thought he was going to ask me to dance”, thought the captain, “I can’t believe I almost giggled!”

As the pair seated themselves, Captain Rafik began to ask her questions, “Please tell me about your work history and your educational background. I would also like to examine your credentials, please. I’m also interested in whatever starship experience you may have.”

“I was trained here at the Mount Regina Medical College. My specialties are diagnosis and surgery. For the past year I have been living and working among the homeless here in the capitol. I’m afraid all I have is an ID card. All my other papers were stolen soon after I began working on the street. I realize that sounds rather like ‘My dog ate my homework’ so I’ll give you several references from the clinic where I do volunteer work. I simply haven’t had the time or money to get them properly replaced. I will answer any medical questions you may have to the best of my knowledge.”

For the first time the thin doctor looked away, embarrassed. “My experience in space is limited to two trips to the orbital platforms when I was a boy and what I have been able to read. I also took several courses on zero-g medicine.”

Inwardly Captain Rafik groaned, “Oh, no. Not another groundhog yearning to“See the Galaxy!”

The captain’s eyebrows raised, “Mount Regina? That’s very exclusive and very expensive. How did you get accepted?”

“The College offers several hardship scholarships to gifted students who would otherwise be unable to attend the school,” replied the doctor, “For what it’s worth, I graduated in the top first percentile of my class, much to the chagrin of several of my well-bred classmates.”

“Before you ask,” he continued “Yes, I could have been quite comfortable working in a large hospital or in a private practice. I felt my talents were a gift that should be shared with those who cannot afford the state’s health program. Why work on a small ship? I think it is time I broadened my experience. It will make me a better doctor.

“As part of my resume I offer my medkit.” Harcore placed the ‘kit on the desk in front of her and opened it. He reached in and removed a medical scanner. It had seen heavy use, but was state-of-the-art and expensive. Nadina couldn’t resist peeking inside the medkit. It was neatly organized and appeared fully stocked.

Caliban activated the scanner and held out his hand for hers. “If you will allow a brief demonstration, I’ll scan your hand. I want you to see I know how to use this.”

Nadina nodded and held out her hand. The doctor instructed her to spread her fingers apart and placed it on the scanner’s pad. After a few seconds it made a chirping noise at the conclusion of the scan. After removing her hand, the doctor tapped out a few commands and showed her the readout.

“Your blood-work looks good, although there is a slight electrolyte imbalance. I would say you have not been eating a very balanced diet recently. It also looks like you have a healed fracture in your index finger. I would guess it is about ten years old.”

Nadina grinned, “Correct on both points, Doctor.”

Harcore carefully replaced and secured the scanner and closed and locked the medkit. “I can leave at any time. I can be reached through the clinic, which reminds me, I really do need to get back. Is there anything else I can answer for you?”

“No, I think I’ve got what I need. I’ll contact you in a few days with my decision.” replied the captain.

As Caliban turned to leave the captain spoke up “By the way, what’s in the other case?”

Caliban looked back and with a sad little half-smile replied, “A family heirloom. I keep it close to prevent anyone from stealing it. Good day, Captain.”

* * *

“Well, Schmee, what do you think?” asked the Captain.

The little Goblyn leaned back in his chair and rubbed his chin. “He’s a good liar. Some parts of his story checks out and some don’t. Nobody named “Harcore Caliban” ever attended that school or any school on this hunk of dirt. There was a retired dock worker by that name who died recently. ID’s fake all right.

The folks at the clinic say he’s the real deal and don’t want to lose him. Said he just showed up one day and started helpin’ out so they didn't ask too many questions. Never talks about himself. Patients like him, too. Say he’s got a real good way about him.”

Schmee snorted derisively, “What he read about space in books!? He isn’t lyin’ about bein’ onboard a ship. Don’t walk like a spacer. He’s runnin’ from somethin’.”

The captain nodded her assent. “I agree. He’s well-educated and his mannerisms seem to point to money. Not to mention that expensive scanner he had. Should we take a chance? We really don’t have a lot of choice. He was the only one to apply for the job.”

Schmee crossed his arms and pointedly said, “You took me didn’t you?”

Susan posted some interviews in the ship's log. The interviews are with various crew members after about a year on the ship. Here is her write up of the interview with the Doctor.

Dr Caliban knocked on the Captains cabin door. He bowed gracefully as she opened the door. She smiled somewhat mischievously and welcomed him into her cabin. An ancient musician’s music played softly in the back ground. Tyrell recognized the music as that of Bach. He had never thought the captain had that much class to realize the value of classical forms of music.

“Ah, Captain, I did not know that you were familiar with classical solmanic music.”

She shook her head and laughed lightly. “I thought you would like it. It’s the kind of music my father used to listen to.” She frowned slightly and shook her head. “I had Caine make up a dinner of your favorite foods. I thought this would be a good time to get to know each other.” She motions towards a well dressed table.

Tyrell notices that she is dressed rather conservatively, but the clothes subtlety accentuates in a graceful manner. Not the usually bawdy outfits that she normally wore. Besides lack of manners, she could have fit in well his social circles. He arched his eyebrow. She must still be annoyed about his comment about how she dressed back on Narsil. Was that what this was about?

The meal was excellent. Well up to Caine’s standards. Captain Rafik at times didn’t seem to know which utensil was for what food. She didn’t appear to like the high quality escargot. They made idle conversation and sipped on some fine wine. The Doctor wondered if the Captain even realized how fine the wine was. She might have some fine business sense, but she lacked many social graces. Some men in his circle might have found that quaint.

“Tyrell” She paused briefly, “May I call you Tyrell?” She didn’t pause for acknowledgement. “I am talking with various crew members to find out their goals for the future. What do you what out of this ship and me? With your skills, you could make your way on any planet. Schmee and I could set you up with a new identity. Why do you want to travel with this crew? What are you long term goals? How can I help you achieve them?” She leveled her sultry gaze at him. “I know we have a common goal in achieving more training for our…ah…unique abilities. What are you willing to do to get that training? We may have a lot of people looking for this ship, how low are you willing to sink Doctor?”

The Doctor settled back in his chair and appeared to carefully consider his next words. “As you know I took this job to escape persecution on Regina. Since then this has been the best experience of my life. Traveling like Old Earth Gypsies, shooting devil dogs, fighting pirates, meeting and talking with aliens, has truly been an adventure. It has been just like those trashy pulp novels of which my grandfather was so fond. I would have never have normally been able to do this”

“Then came the raid on Arden,” Tyrell lowered his gaze. “I broke my oath as a doctor and killed two men. I had never killed anyone before. I’ve seen death, but not by my hand. It happened so fast I didn’t have time to think.

It left me sleepless for weeks. I almost left the ship to return to Regina and turn myself in to the authorities there as a sort of atonement.”

“I eventually realized that the training we are going to received may make my return home possible if I can learn to fool tests and scanners. Holly will also need a friend when she returns to Regina as well. It can be a rough place.”

Tyrell’s eyes rose to meet the Captain’s, “I want to continue with the crew. It is liberating to have friends you can trust to watch your back without having to keep an eye on them or expecting something in return. We have a good crew and I hope you are not planning on breaking it up.”

Tyrell sighed contentedly, “Cain has really outdone himself on this meal. The wine was a particularly excellent choice. It really brings out the flavor of the escargot.”

With a perfectly innocent face he offered the bowl of snails to the Captain, “Would you like some more?” shaking it under her nose.

“Now then what exactly do you mean by “how far and how low” am I willing to go?

Nadina gently reached for the bowl of snails. She seemed to consider Tryell’s words as she slid a few snails on to her plate. She gingerly took a small fork and popped the small morsel of cooked snail out of its shell. She regarded it closely and twirled it thoughtfully.

“You know, with so many people looking for us. Pirates, Section Sigma and perhaps the Zhodoni, we all may have to do things that are distasteful to us. You come from a background of wealth and privilege. We may find ourselves doing things we never considered before in order to survive and achieve our goals.”

She put the snail meat into her mouth with a slight grimace then chewed and swallowed. “I want to know that when the going gets hard, that I can count on you.” She picked up another piece of snail meat on the dainty fork. “I won’t pass judgment on what you must do, if you allow me the same consideration. I will do what I have to do for the survival of my ship and my crew. I don’t need your condemnation of my lack of breeding or my judgment”. She looked Tyrell straight in the eye and ate another tidbit of snail and shuddered as she swallowed. She nodded, still assessing him with her eyes, waiting as if for a response.

Tyrell met her gaze and simply said, "I am, as ever, at your service."

He is known as an excellent engineer on a spaceship. When the laser fire is coming hot and heavy, he is at his best. He seems to be able to tirelessly keep the ship from falling apart. When the battle is over he has been known to go for days without rest to get the ship back to tip top shape.

Sciences of all kinds seem to be within his field of knowledge. If there is a question in any area, he either will have some knowledge of it or he will be able to quickly find the answer.

Bart, as he is called, seems to always be able to find that part or piece of something that is needed to get the ship moving or the crew going. It's usually purchased at a rock bottom price.

While no warrior, he does seem to be able to hold his own in a shootout. He has even been known to knock a few guys out with stun baton. He prefers the duck and cover method to keep his hide intact.

Now there are a few things you shouldn't ask Ben to do. The top of the list is GUARD duty, he has a tendency to either wander off and find something intriguing or he starts daydreaming and unless you fire at him, he probably won't even know you are there. Piloting of any kind is not his thing either. He couldn't hit the broad side of a planet with a laser cannon.

In summary, he would be good at keeping the ship going, but not so good at protecting it.

The rather short and slight of build man appears to be wearing a scout service dress uniform, that seems a size too big for him and that has the left trouser leg removed mid- thigh exposing an older Mark V Run-a-bout artificial leg. Not a top of the line model but one know for their workhorse dependability. You would surmise that getting it through security check points would be a pain, which is probably why he has removed the pant leg to speed the process. His jet black hair, once styled as a crewcut, has grown slightly awry giving him a slightly "wild" look even though he is clean shaven. His face itself has what you call the "everyman" look to it, not really handsome but by the same token not unattractive either. The type of face that you would have a hard time picking out of a crowd if you had only seen it once,and the kind of face that fits in with any group because it just sorta belongs. He seems fit and healthy, and if you had to hazard a guess, in his lower to mid- thirtys.

Politely you cough to alert him to your presence, and are somewhat surprised at the speed of which he stands, smiles cheerfully, and extends a hand in greeting. Though unless you were mistaken, despite his peaceful demeanor, it seemed for a second that his hand twitched almost unconsciously towards the pistol holstered at his side. Also slightly unsettling is the way his bright blue eyes seems to be taking in your every movement, as if he is expecting you to swing at him at any moment. But this aside he does seem friendly enough, and since he is smiling ear to ear, you find it hard not to do the same.

"Well, the best place to start, so I have been told, is at the beginning."

With that the man smiles impishly and waits as you round the desk and sit before he himself retakes his seat.

"I am Ben Rogers, though under less formal circumstances I like to be called Gunner,Gunny or Peg" At the mention of the latter he snaps his finger against the metal of his implant and is rewarded with a dull ping and a slight sneer creeps into his smile. "I answer to any of em and as you know I am seeking the Security Chief position for the Lady Macbeth."

With that he pushes a small bundle across the desk. "That is the Hard info on my service record and even a few Vid Chips from my former employers touting my abilities." He chuckles. "Most of it I figure you all ready have from your own background check but a few things that are generally overlooked, that I think should give me the edge in securing the position, I have taken the liberty to include. Like my military Psych and Stress evaluation, my Planetary Security Academy exam scores and Hand to Hand and Shooting Marks, top of the line I might add, from both branches." He sighs.

"But all that is so cut,dry,and sterile I figured telling ya in my own words my service record in a nutshell would be less likely to put you to sleep."

"Well, it all started on Triton 2 that's were my family still is. Bet you never heard of it." He grins wistfully. "Not many have. Its a small Hydro-moon where pretty much if you are not an algae farmer than you join Planetary Security Forces. Having two older brothers who liked to farm did not leave me much choice so at 16 I joined into the Academy.

"I was just finishing my PSF Training when a position in security opened up on the slow-boat Queens Grace. She was a Luxury Liner you know the type did a two system hop for people with lots of money who didn't have to be anywhere or people without money who couldn't pay to get anywhere faster." He chuckles. "Needless to say I jumped on it.

"Well, with a bit of elbow grease and some luck I managed to work my way up to Security Chief of the Low berths. And when I say low I mean low me and the lads were barely a step up from the techs taking care of the stiffs in cryo. And heres a bit of insider Info not that I am bragging mind you, this is just how it is. When there is a problem, I mean a real problem in your section it is common practice instead of risking your own crews necks to handle it you send in the lower ranking crew." Ben cracks his knuckles and grimaces. "And like I said we were the bottom of the barrel those cyro guys were more scientist than security, so me and my lads pretty much trouble shot the whole ship. Heh heh, though I cannot complain we had some good times and even though we got dinged up pretty bad a few times I never lost a man during my stint as Chief.

"Anyway you know what they say about all good things, some higher up decided that the Queens Grace needed refitting and bang quick as you please I was jobless."

'Well, civilian jobs were kinda few and far between, and I already had space in my blood and wanted more. Well, the quickest way back into the Big Black that I could see was the Scouts so I signed on, musta been about 22 or 23 then.

"Now I thought that I was going to see all kinds of planets meet all kinds of races and be exploring the unexplored." He winks ruthfully "Heh, but as it turned out after training I was put on a small scout vessel whose main job was salvage. We did mostly tow work on near scrapped ships, and pirate vessels that the marines had shot up, and cleanup on pirate bases the marines had overrun, Striping and repairing what we could and sending it back to base. Well, on one of those cleanup missions someone left me a little present and an AP-mine took my leg." He mutters something under his breath that sounds like something between a cough and a growl. "But You gotta hand it to those scouts, they really take care of there own and gave me this shiny souvenir." Once again he smiles widely and raps the leg.

" I even resigned and did a second bout with em before I realized that for all of my time in space I had seen 6 habitable worlds counting my home planet and probably doing what I was doing wouldn't see many more. Well, I decided to muster out and wait till something I wanted to do came along or my money ran out."

"So my money ran out." He laughs heartily.

"Last couple of years I have been here Planetside doing some private security work and crowd control."

Before you can reply he states "All right you got me," he waves his hands in front of himself. "Not really crowd control more of just a plain old bouncer. But when I heard of this job I knew it was for me."

"Anyway that's enough of me yammering on as I am sure you have others to interview. I thank you for your time and hope to hear news either way it goes soon."

With a half bow and a smart salute he is gone. It takes a few minutes for the realization to dawn on you that you didn't manage to get even one word in edgewise.

Susan posted some interviews in the ship's log. The interviews are with various crew members after about a year on the ship. Here is her write up of the interview with Ben.

She entered the cargo bay where Hard and Ben were practicing Hand-to-hand combat. She sat down on a nearby crate and watched as they hit and flipped each other around. They were both working up quite a sweat. She waited until they were finished.

Ben looked at Nadina, and then wiped his forehead with a towel. “Hey Capt’n you in for a round today?”

Nadina shook her head. “Nope, not today.” She nodded to Hard as he padded by. She stood up and moved closer. “I was hoping to ask you to dinner in my quarters tonight. I’ve got some things to talk over with you.”

Ben nodded. “Yeah, Hard was telling me how you been interviewing the crew. I wondered when it would be my turn. When you want me there?”

“I’d say about 7:00 or so, unless you want another time?”

Ben agreed that 7:00 would be a good time.

When 7:00 rolled around, Ben knocked on the captain’s door. She told him to come in. He opened the door. The lighting was subdued and some sort of Jazz was playing softly in the background. The table that was set up had two lit candles which flickered gently. The Captain was wearing a filmy green robe, her long black hair tumbled loosely down her shoulders. “I’m glad you made it. I guess you know what this is about right?”

“Well, captain, I figure you want to interview me about my wants and goals as a crew member here aboard the Lady Macbeth.”

She smiled. “Yes, that’s mostly right.” She moved towards the table. “But first, let’s have some of this wonderful food Caine has prepared. He said it was your favorite.

Ben sat down at the table next to her. The Captains perfume drifted shyly towards him. He didn’t remember her wearing that scent before; he found it a little distracting. This didn’t seem like no interview he had ever been in before. They ate and made some small talk, mostly about her practicing shooting her firearm. For what ever reason she didn’t seem too pleased with that topic of conversation.

As the dinner began to wind down, she reached for his hand, and then dropped it quickly. She seemed startled for a moment. “I just wanted to get to know you better. I wanted to know if your expectations are being fulfilled as member of my crew. As I recall, you wanted to see more of space and visit more planets. What are some of the things you would still like to do? Is there any place in space you want to go to or see?” She said in a husky voice, her eyes a startling dark green. Oh, and I just wanted to tell you that I’m giving you a small bonus when we reach Darrian. Maybe you can invest in better armor. I always worry when you…and when the crew go into danger.”

Ben shifted a bit on his chair. He scratched his head thoughtfully. “Ehh to be truthful I am really easy to please, with this new tech 13 or so vac suit and some minor gear I am pleased as punch.” He glanced around the cabin of the ship. “I of course would love to see us move up one level in merchant class size, it would be more defendable, but we’re doing great as is and with the new maneuver drive we should be fast enough to actually lose a lot of ships if we’re out gunned.”

“I have no real personal preference for which worlds we visit. But I do like seeing all different cultures. You know I heard we may be heading toward Aslyan Space, it would be great to see some of them. I think I maybe would like to see those hive guys, that would be neat.” Ben excused himself from the table. “If there isn’t anything else Captain?” He inclined his head slightly. “I best be off then.”

Nadina watched him leave, slightly dumbfounded. After a moment or two, she looked into her mirror, shook her head ruefully and chuckled mockingly at her reflection.

Posted by Captain Rafik on Thursday, 08.3.06

The man shakes your hand firmly and exchanges a knowing nod with Hard Gveg'h. He sits at your invitation.

"You are Dev Faustus?" you ask.

"Yes Captain", he responds.

You look over his records..."Lets see, you were in the Imperial Marines for 19 years. Strange that you didn't re-enlist, one more year and you could have gotten retirement benefits."

He stares back at you and says nothing, but you see a slight twitch near his right eye.

"Well", you continue, "you have an impressive record, citations for bravery in the Fifth Frontier War, wounded in combat several times, and recipient of the Emperor's Star. Mustering out at the rank of Top Sergeant in a pathfinder company. Service on several frigates and top scores in gunnery."

"Your records indicate that since you left the service you've been working for Aefree Bonds. Is that a financial institution of some sort?"

He stares for a moment before answering. "No Captain. Aefree is a bail bondsmen. I help him out when someone jumps bail before trial."

"I see" you respond. "And why do you want to change professions?"

"Well m'am, I'm not sure how to answer that. I guess I miss serving as part of a team and I'm hoping I can fit in with your crew. I also don't feel there is a lot of room for, uh, personal growth in my current profession."

"Do you have family on Regina?" you ask.

He twitches again and you can sense his grief, "Uh no Captain. I'm an orphan, and my foster parents both died a little over a year ago."

You stand to shake hands with him. "I'll let you know what we decide, Mr. Faustus. Thank you for coming in for an interview."

"Thank you Captain" he says as he shakes your hand. He looks over to Hard and nods, "Sir".

Hard nods back, "Good Luck Sergeant, you'll be hearing from us soon".

After the door closes, you look at Hard "I think we can cross that one off our lists. Not quite friendly enough to be a steward on a small ship like ours and he kind of gives me the creeps.".

Hard looks back at you and the fur around his neck stands up a bit. "I beg to differ. We need a man like him. He is a stone cold killer, no doubt about that, but he is an honourable man and lives by a code. About two years ago he testified against his commanding officer, Major Karl Grudge, in a court martial. Top Sergeant Faustus accused his commander of cowardice and murder. It takes guts to bring charges against a superior, especially in the Imperial Service. Major Grudge had connections and was able to get the charges dismissed. Sergeant Faustus left the service shortly after. Dev Faustus may be out of his element as ship's steward, but he is a good and honourable man who won't let you down. I, for one, will sleep better having someone like him on board."

Mr. Caine is a distinquished looking older gentlemen. He speaks rarely of his past, but was apparently the personal steward/butler for an Imperial Admiral and was discharged from the service due to his age after the Admiral's death.

Mr. Caine is an excellent cook and something of a gourmet. He is generally quiet and reserved. He does an excellent job keeping the ships galley stocked and preparing meals for the crew. He has also taken the lead in organizing Holly's education and has grown extremely found of her.

Holly is a street urchin that the crew met after she stole Dr. Caliban's wrist-comp on tureded. After some research and adventure they discovered that she is actually Holisara Blaisen Damsane the lost heir to the Damsane family from Regina. The crew did additional research and suspect that her uncle was behind her disappearance/supposed death and also the death of her parents. You can find the story here in the GMs log.

The crew has decided to keep Holly with them for now and all have taken a hand in raising and educating her. In the past year on the Lady MacBeth she has become a precocious 13 year old.