Hummm....how does one dress for dinner with a Hiver?
Posted by Dr Caliban on Monday, 09.10.07 @ 12:59pm | #100
Just a test post to make sure this interface still works and that the database is still updating.
Posted by Bob on Saturday, 09.1.07 @ 12:53pm | #99
Good suggestions, all. I would like to suggest medicines and medical supplies as possible cargos.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Thursday, 08.10.06 @ 02:39am | #98
I think we could check into the possibility of freighting things from Darrian Space to the Aslyn. We are supposed to be flying under the radar, so that means we need to take what money we can earn. High Tech on lower tech worlds should bring in more cash.
Remember, I just spent all the emergency loot on the upgrades to the ship. We have the possibility of running a little light until we can find a way to reaquire our cushion.
Remember we still have some cash invested in stocks on Regina.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Monday, 08.7.06 @ 19:55pm | #97
Since this is a very high tech world, and our intended course is toward Aslan space via a number of independent worlds, I think I might have an idea for cargo. I assume many of those worlds have ambassadors here and probably have managed to get some high tech equipment, either for themselves or their governments. Things like computers, grav cars, and maybe high tech weapons for their personal guards. I think maybe we can make a few credits hauling this stuff back to one of those backwater planets, especially since we're headed that direction anyway. We should have a reputation for being reliable and discreate, lets put it to good use.
Also, I've heard there are Aslan living in the Darrian Confederation. Perhaps we can get our hands on some high tech weapons designed for Aslan, that can't help but sell well once we hit Aslan space.
Posted by Schmee on Sunday, 08.6.06 @ 20:43pm | #96
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 @ 20:34pm | #95
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.”
Posted by Captain Rafik on Thursday, 08.3.06 @ 20:25pm | #94
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."
Posted by Captain Rafik on Tuesday, 07.4.06 @ 00:30am | #93
‘What a blasted cold world.’ Nadina thought to herself. She could understand why the population of this world was only 800 and something. She shivered in her parka. The sooner they got this interview over with the high muckity muck sheriff, the sooner she could get to the bar. She really wanted a drink right now.
The Sheriff gave them the low down. He was obviously linked to a ruling family or someone of great power, considering his last name was the same as the planet. The crew all headed towards Miss Kitties. No doubt the Sheriff got some sort of kickbacks for recommending her establishment over the others in the area.
It was a nice enough place. There was a high percentage of what looked like mercenaries. They must be linked to those shuttles at the port. Nadina knew that Hard and Ben were doing some work on the side for the Imperium. She didn’t ask too many questions about what they did, just enough to know that they were doing something. Besides, she had a growing dislike for the Sword Worlders in general, and if gathering information could thwart the spreading of there kind of rhetoric she was all for it.
The crew split up and mingled with the crowd. Several Mercs made there way to her. She let them buy her drinks and began to enjoy the light bantering. She was slightly annoyed when Hard buzzed her mentioning a trade possibility. Hadn’t he told her earlier to unwind and leave the business for the morning? She begged off for a few moments and talked to the bartender regarding an appointment for off loading food and entertainment supplies in the morning.
She glanced around. Schmee was sitting peacefully with two Darrian traders. Ben and Hard were gathered around the pool table talking to some of the mercs. Holly and the Doc were sitting at a table.
Everything seemed quite, too quite. She suddenly got the impulse to see what would happen if she stirred the pot on the mercs just a bit. Were they a cohesive unit, or was there a bit of a rivalry? She sidled up to one of the guys she had talked to earlier. With a word here, and glance there, she soon had two men from different units competing for her attentions. If she pushed just right, they would come to blows.
Suddenly a huge behemoth of a female sergeant type came barreling in. “I know your type missy, and I’m asking real nice for you to knock it off. We are all here for a nice time. We don’t need any of your type making trouble.”
“My type?” Nadina said demurely. “I’m sure I don’t understand what you are talking about.” She looked the big burley sergeant over. This monster towered over her by almost a foot. Nadina knew this lady would not hesitate to lay her out flat and roll her up into a nice little package with a sweet pink bow. “My crew and I just landed and were taking some R&R.” She noticed Hard looking in her direction. He was babysitting her again. She could take care of herself…sometimes. Looking levelly at the sergeant she spoke in a sweet tone. “I find it amazing you could have risen to rank in the society you come from. The Sword Worlds are so oppressive”
The sergeant returned her look. “I have dealt with your kind before. I have gotten were I am through work and ability. Not just on looks alone.” The sergeant looked at her pointedly insinuating that Nadina had no skills what so ever and only got where she was on her back. This mountain of a woman was trying to bait her?
Nadina shrugged. “Can I help it that no matter where I go, men follow me around?” She asked rhetorically in a light airy tone not expecting an answer. “Did they not come to me first?” She purposefully looked over the sergeant and let her eyes slide away as if she saw nothing worth looking at. If the woman had no self-control, she would be in big trouble. Nadina was betting that the woman prided herself on discipline. “I am the captain of a merchant vessel. I know my business and know it well. I handle cargo and all business negotiations. That takes brains not brawn.” Her dark eyes turned to ice. It was not a look she had ever leveled at the crew, and hinted at steel hidden within. She didn’t know how she was going to get out of this gracefully, but knew she didn’t want to end up some space flotsam either. It was time for a tactical retreat. This gorilla wasn’t letting herself get fast-talked. “I just came in for a drink and to wind down.”
“You just leave my boys alone.” The large woman warned. Nadina was slightly surprised that the woman didn’t crack her knuckles. She nodded noncommittally. She thought it stragitically wise to let the woman have the last word.
This did not put her in a great frame of mind, nor did it help that the behemoth female sergeant kept eyeing her, taking all pleasure out of her relaxation. She was relieved when it was decided to go to another bar. Schmee declined and continued his visit with the Darrians.
The new bar did not help her ruffled feathers any. Hard and Ben were busy talking to a Vargr officer with one of the Merch groups. She didn’t feel like eating and picked at her food. Once Hard and Ben came back over to the table, she mentioned that perhaps she would go to another bar. Hard jumped in and said in an almost aggravated tone of voice. “Okay, which one you want to go to now? Not back to Miss Kitties and that bruiser you were talking to earlier?”
“No,” She said rubbing her head. “Just forget it okay?” Hard was trying to baby-sit her again. What was supposed to be a pleasant evening was turning out less than enjoyable. Eventually she excused herself from the table for the ladies room. On the way back to the table, her legs changed directions for the door. She just needed some time to herself. She had to figure out why Hard’s watch dogging her annoyed her so much.
The air outside was more than crisp. She ducked into the nearest bar and entered a game of poker. After the third hand, she just about jumped out of her skin when Hard stepped up behind her. She swore.
“Hey Captain, just wanted you to know I’m heading back to the ship.” This was Hard’s way to let her know he knew she had snuck out and he was still watching her back. She sighed in resignation. It wasn’t a bad thing he was watching out for her. Heaven’s knew they had enough different enemies. It was the necessity of it that gulled. While on planet it felt that she had no privacy and every move she did was watched. She thought wryly to herself. With Hard and Ben around, she was better protected than many heads of state.
Soon she folded and left the game. She was alone now. She wandered around the town for a while. She soon realized what she was looking for and highly doubted she would find a place on this small rock that had that kind of shop. It was a whim born of habit anyway. She found a small bench in a park and sat and considered the stars. The bitter wind soon drove her back to the ship.
The Doctor and Hard were near the entrance. Hard no doubt, was making sure she got home safely. She stalked to her cabin. If she had been a cat her tail would have been lashing madly about.
She grabbed her teddy bear and eventually calmed down enough to sleep.
The next day she was out and about. After dealing with Miss Kitty, she headed back to the ship. She was suddenly surrounded by intrigue as Schmee, Ben and Hard filled her in on what they had been up to and all the information they had gleaned. They wanted more. Schmee thought if the right information were given to the right people, it would make dealing with the Darrian’s less expensive when it came to upgrading the ship. Nadina knew what Schmee wanted her to do. It was becoming easier to read peoples minds, not that she liked it, but is was becoming almost second nature, as much a part of her as her hand. It was always risky. Most people had a great aversion to having their minds read. It was an invasion of privacy, and Nadina could appreciate that.
She almost didn’t want to become involved. Who was she to decide who was right or wrong? She didn’t care for the Sword Worlders, but were the Darrians any better?
It came down to the matter of taking care of herself, her ship and her crew. She had already decided that she would do what ever necessary to protect her crew and her ship. If they helped the Darrians, there was a possibility of getting higher tech than was generally allowed. In order to stay one jump ahead of the pirates, sections sigma, the Zhodoni and who ever else had a beef against them, they needed an element of surprise. They needed some sort of edge. If they could get better sensors, or weapons or even an engine, that might tip the balance in their favor. She leaned against the ship. She was a good ol’ girl. Nadina would take care of her.
She put her parka back on and went to where a few officers were eating lunch. There was a lieutenant who seemed unsure socially. If he was as inexperienced as she thought, she might be able to get some information from him. He was flattered by the attention she showed him and soon was telling her just about all she wanted to know. However the vital piece was missing. She needed to know where. In between talking about his home world and family, she began to dig into his mind. She once the right question was asked; a flood of information was hers to access. Most of it meant nothing; it was mostly diagrams of a space station. However one name came to mind. It was what she had been seeking.
She left his mind, feeling slightly dirty. It had been too easy. If he ever realized the breach of information had come from him, and if his friends and workmates died because of him, he would never let himself forget or forgive himself. It would scar him for the rest of his life. This person was basically good and honorable. Those were rare enough in the business dealing she had. He was mostly just wet behind the ears and wanting to make an impression with a nice looking woman. With a feeling of empathy, she let herself get more carried away than usual and finally had to stop his guy before things went further than she was willing to go. She had only one person that she loved, and she was not about to betray him just for information. Let the man tell his friends whatever he wished. She walked out of the backroom adjusting her clothes. She gave the mark a quick kiss on the cheek and made her way out of the building.
What was she turning into?
Schmee arranged a meeting with one of the Darrian scouts. She had to admire how well the scout used questions to dig out any vital information she could remember. The guy was good. If she had not already knew he was a spy for the Darrian home world, his concise questions would have made her extremely suspicious. He was trained and knew what he was doing. Through his questioning, she remembered things she didn’t know she remembered.
Only one small doubt remained in her mind. Perhaps the Mercs had planted his Lieutenant. Maybe they were feeding him false information knowing that he would spill his guts fully believing the information he was given. The information she dug out of peoples mind could be flawed in such a way. Case in point, her dealings with that slime, Zac Glar, he had really sold her on that computer chip which ended up being a pirate ambush. She had thought he was on the up and up. She chewed on her lower lip briefly. She had given the Darrians what information she knew, it was up to them to use it how they may. She just shuddered to think if all that information was incorrect. She would hate to think what the Darrians would do to them. They would have to deal with that if it came up.
The Darrians left shortly after they were done questioning her. In order not to seem sneaky or to raise suspicions, the trade with Miss Kitty was finished. In celebration of the deal and of their departure from Ator, they had a good meal together as a crew to celebrate. Once they wined and dined, they blasted off the planet, their engines glowing bright in the night sky.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Sunday, 06.25.06 @ 09:27am | #92
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.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Thursday, 06.22.06 @ 20:57pm | #91
Well, there are a half-dozen of his ships in port now. I'm sure one of them would be happy to take him back.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Saturday, 06.17.06 @ 01:21am | #90
Leaving suggestions in peoples minds is not a talent that has suggested itself to me. I'm more a reader and an empath.
We can hold onto our "passenger" as long as we need to. I don't want to leave him on Darrian as that is too close to Narsil.
In fact, I'm all for transferring him to an Arden ship and shipping him back to Stirling to deal with. What ever fate I could decide would be less than what HE would do to him.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Friday, 06.16.06 @ 13:59pm | #89
Maybe the Darrian homeworld would be a good place. If we left him on an Aslan border world it might give those interested in us a clue as to what direction we are headed. Can you leave suggestions in a subject's head?
Posted by Dr Caliban on Thursday, 06.15.06 @ 20:51pm | #88
Narsil was a busy, populated, polluted world. Nadina didn’t much care for it, or for the people who lived on it. These people didn’t like aliens, and treated women like third class citizens. This was not a place she would choose to make a home, or want to visit again. The air was tainted even through the oxygen breathers and left a metallic taste in her mouth. How could people live like this?
The Doctor and Schmee went to a local Internet bar to log into the world net. Schmee learned their contact Sam Murthos had gone missing. Schmee must be rubbing off on her for when Schmee informed her of this, she immediately thought that something fishy was going on. She didn’t think it wise to trust the second in command. He had only been on this stinking planet for a few months. Hard suspected the guy was a plant. Nadina was inclined to agree.
After some thought and council with her crew, she contacted the captain of the freighter Freya and arranged a friendly chat to feel out the climate regarding the second in command of Sterling Shipping, a man named Antoine Figg. It was much as she suspected, Captain Victor didn’t like Figg much and thought she should be careful. The Victor arranged a meeting in an up-class restaurant for later that day. She was warned that it wouldn’t be a good idea for her to wander around alone on this militaristic chauvinist world. Most women had escorts at all times.
Nadina wanted to roll her eyes. It was bad enough the crew seemed to want to follow her everywhere she went. Now she had strange ship’s captains telling her the same thing. She was starting to feel imprisoned in her own ship and did not like it at all. She became a free trader to be free and now it seemed like all her crew wanted to do was cosset her. She wanted to beat something up in frustration.
Maybe she should have Ben give her some lessons. She had to keep things strictly professional. While she was at it, she might as well have Ben show her how to fire a gun with more accuracy. It would go a long way in helping the crew think she was not completely helpless.
Doctor Caliban and Nadina met Figg at Roland’s Rest. Nadina, as a rule did not try to scan the emotions of her crewmates. She definitely did not try to read their minds. Perhaps it was a strange sort of ethics on her part, but she really didn’t want or need to know what was going on in the heads of her crewmembers. Trust had to begin somewhere, and if she tried to scan every Tom, Dick and Harry, she would soon go nuts.
Tonight though, Nadina couldn’t help pick up on the Doctors dislike of how she dressed. Usually Nadina would just blow it off. Such things had stopped bothering her a long time ago, but tonight, it was like a thorn in her mind. It didn’t help that she had tried to prepare herself to read minds this evening, sometimes it helped, and others it didn’t. Tonight she could feel the doctors distaste and it rubbed on her emotions. It didn’t help her much when the waiter refused to acknowledge her existence as they were seated at a nice table by a window.
She forced herself to calm down and slipped a mind shield into place. It was a relief to stop the bombardment of others emotions into her mind. She could usually control the influx of emotions and “turn” the gift of being empathic on and off as she chose, but there were sometimes when people felt so strongly, she had no escape. If others thought that feeling emotions or reading others minds was a gift, they had never laid awake at night while their first officer was having horrific nightmares which sent waves of pain and terror through the confined area of the ship. She didn’t know the specifics of his dreaming, and frankly she didn’t want to know, but it couldn’t help but taint her view of the Zhodoni in a more negative light.
Figg arrived at the restaurant in a Limo with a good-looking woman on his arm. It didn’t take much time on the Doctors part or Nadina’s that this woman didn’t have much of a brain for business. Her idle small talk only helped heighten the feeling that Figg was not on the up and up. Almost grudgingly, Nadina began to probe the man’s mind. She had to sift through the images of her being naked in his arms. It was a common image when dealing with men, only some were more graphic than others. With him it was repulsive and was almost as bad as that socialite, Count Demetric Damsane on Regina. She tried to repress a shiver of repugnance and began to direct him toward the information she was seeking.
After a few leading questions, she soon had a good idea where Sam Murthos was being held. It was almost like taking candy from a baby, except this candy made her feel sick to her stomach. She was slightly taken back when Figg asked her if Sterling had hired them to carry any cargo. She fed him a song and dance about how Sterling thought they might be able to smuggle some of the valuable high-end cargo off planet, which was currently moldering in the 6 or 7 ships unable to take off. Figg seemed to buy the story, and soon the evening began to wind down. She bade farewell to Figg with some vague plans of meeting up with him again.
She felt that she needed a long hot bath. Crawling around in most people’s heads was unsettling, especially when those people had such foreign values and beliefs. Figg made her feel dirty. She knew if she ever enjoyed reading peoples minds, she was in deep deep trouble.
They were soon back on the ship. Nadina roused her crew and explained the situation. It wasn’t long before weapons were hidden and plans were laid. Schmee did more data gathering, and the building they were looking for was targeted.
It was decided that Schmee would go through the checkpoint first, followed by the air raft then by Ben. Schmee thought he would distract the guards, and again be diverted by the sex appeal of the captain, they should be able to smuggle guns out of the spaceport.
Nadina watched as Schmee was escorted into a back room. She was not happy at what was happening to the little goblyn. She was not happy at Hard who was snickering at the goblyns misfortune of having to go through a full cavity search. Nadine thought it derogatory and distasteful. She would have to find someway to repay Schmee for his sacrifice.
That part of the plan worked. They were able to smuggle the guns out of the spaceport without detection. They headed toward the True Steel Brotherhood dojo where Nadina was sure Murthos was being held.
Hard went in to do some scouting of the area. He cleverly distracted the guards from the front door so the rest of the group could sneak in. Schmee seemed a little hesitant and twitchy, but with what he had just gone through, who could blame him?
It seemed that everyone was busy in the training room playing with swords. They moved down the hall. Schmee got distracted by a computer in an office, but said the thing was too antiquated to be of much help. He said Hard had signaled him and was headed down towards the basement.
They soon found the way down, a set of narrow stairs. They heard talking. The guards didn’t seem so pleased they were stuck with guard duty instead of being able to practice with swords. Hard once again did a wonderful job of distracting the guards as they entered the room. The pistols aimed at their heads soon convinced the guards, they would be wise to stand down.
Nadina could almost not believe that a plan went off without a hitch. She kept waiting for a bunch of thugs to rush them as Murthos was untied and rescued. Soon they made it back to the ship, still not trusting that Murthos was on the up and up, she tried to scan him as she had Figg. When Murthos eyes opened wider, she knew she had pushed a little to far. She was going to have to watch that. She was fairly certain that Sam now knew she was a reader; it was something she didn’t want published about. Especially when Section Sigma had a watch out on her ship.
A suggestion was laid forth about removing Figg from power. It was suggested Nadina call Figg and ask him for that date. She arranged a meeting on her ship, where her wonderful steward would whip them up a very private meal. Nadina just couldn’t keep her mind off of him and just had to see him tonight. Figg bought it and he was soon in her ship eating and drinking. The doc had mixed up a Mickey and soon he was passed out on the ship’s floor. They quickly placed him in cryo and had Sam Murthos up and running the business again.
Armor cars were arranged and soon the 150 million in gold and platinum was off loaded and safely in the bank. It was a relief to get that cargo off of her ship. They netted a total of 1.8 million dollars in payment. Not too shabby.
The doctor and Hard suggested the next stop should be Ator. It was the plan to go there before jumping to Darrian space. The Doc, like Nadina was looking for more training in the psychic skills and knew where they eventually wanted to land. Nadina was anxious to throw off Section Sigma and wanted to stay out of Imperium Space as much as possible. It seemed like a good plan. Nadina arranged for some foodstuffs, cold weather gear and some entertainment goods for sell at Ator. She really didn’t expect much as the population was next to nothing, but it made a good cover.
Over the next week while arranging some cargo, Nadina had Ben show her some basic pistol techniques. She was easily distracted when Ben showed her how to aim her pistol correctly and missed the target more than she hit it. She did much better when Ben wasn’t around. She joined in the hand-to-hand practice when both Hard and Ben were throwing each other about. She would never have that kind of skill, and her style of fighting was more suited to bar fights. Better to grab the leg off a broken chair or break a bottle than do all those fancy flipping things.
In passing she mentioned a curiosity in the museums and art galleries the Doc and Schmee frequently visited, and remarked to the Doc that perhaps she would like to go with them sometime. The Doctor informed her that should be need to dress properly, that the clothes that she was so fond of would not suffice at the opera. She mentioned that she had dressed very nice at Regina when going to that business party. Caliban said that was all very well and nice if you liked looking like a fluffy fu-fu cake. So Caliban might be high society, but Nadina did know fashion, and was agitated by the Doctors comments. Having won several beauty pageants, she knew how to dress in style and class. It was just the social niceties that she wasn’t familiar with. Fluffy Fu-Fu cake indeed! Stuffy ol’ stodgy coot!
Nadina was relieved when the clearance was given to finally take off. She was in foul mood having to deal with those Swordsmen and men in general and could not wait for the freedom of space.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Monday, 06.12.06 @ 12:54pm | #87
I wouldn't mind if it was a very small, rough, lawless backwater, with no hope of escape. As it was suggested to me, just dump him in a motel somewhere and let him come out of the micky naturally after we are long gone. That motel could be half a planet away from what passes as a star port on what ever world we stick him on as far as I'm concerned. (Think hick town in Nevada somewhere with heavy thugs)
Posted by Captain Rafik on Sunday, 06.11.06 @ 10:27am | #86
We can always dump him off on a backwater. After visiting the Darrian homeworld we will be passing through a lot of them on our way to the Aslan Conquests.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Saturday, 06.10.06 @ 20:10pm | #85
Does anyone have any suggestions as to what we can do with the individual in cryo?
Posted by Schmee on Friday, 06.9.06 @ 20:39pm | #84
I like Schmee's idea about the missles. Something like that would be handy in a senario where we are getting out tushes kick and need to flee. I figure sooner or later we will get our tushes kick. With our speed, it would be nice to disapear off radar.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Sunday, 06.4.06 @ 13:27pm | #83
The bar was situated on the outskirts of the seeder side of town. It wasn’t so bad as to attract the unwanted element, but just questionable enough that a secret meeting might go undetected.
Nadina moved into the bar secure in the knowledge that out there somewhere her Vargr 1st Officer was covering her back. Sometimes that old dog treated her as a wet behind the ears pup. Perhaps she was, at least to a seasoned veteran as himself.
Looking around the bar, she noticed Sterling. He looked about as obvious as an eagle in the mist of a flock of turkeys. If he was trying to be covert, he wasn’t doing a good job of it. So much for a secret meeting, then again, she thought ruefully to herself, wasn’t she playing at the same thing?
The meet was fairly short. He detailed the problem he was having at the Sword Worlds and how he wanted Nadina and her crew to take a very large sum of money to pay a debt and enable him to open the trade lines for his company. It was in essence a very large pay off.
Her wrist unit beeped. It was Hard asking if Sterling had come with a bodyguard. This was confirmed. Nadina could just see him taking out the personal bodyguard of a well to do merchant trader. It would not be pretty. Her confidence in Hard was strengthened. She would have never picked the bodyguard out, and she still didn’t even have a clue to where Hard was hiding. He was good.
She assured Sterling that the Lady Macbeth and her crew could be counted on to be discreet. Now all she had to do was figure out a way to keep Schmee from finding out they were going to carry 150 million in untraceable gold and platinum. She was unsure what Schmee would do, but didn’t have a hard time guessing. She could see the dollar signs in his eyes now. She was certain that he would find out, he had the uncanny habit of discovering anything he put his mind to. Hopefully it could be hidden long enough before he could do anything about it. Nadina knew the lure of so much liquid cash in one place would be more than the goblyn could stand.
Sterling stood up to leave with the warning that there would be no place she could hide if his money went missing. She didn’t particularly care for threats; it seemed she was getting quite a few of those lately. She was for the most part an honest trader, and would take care of the man’s money as if it was her own. It just annoyed her the man had felt the need to threaten her. It did not sit well and left a bad taste in her mouth.
Sterling sauntered out of the bar. His bodyguard detached himself from the bar and followed him out. Nadina sat musing for a few minutes, allowing herself for a moment or two to consider what she could do with 150 million credits. She decieded that she liked the freedom being on a far trader gave her, and regardless of the money, it was not a life style she was willing to give up. Hard contacted her again, “Captain, it seems Sterling was followed and they may have made us. Permission to follow.”
“Yeah, sure, I’ll make it back to the ship on my own.” Well, at least this would give her some time without a babysitter. She had things to do while in the seedy part of town.
A few credits lighter, she entered the ship to find out that they might have been made. Great, well there was nothing to do but to go on and go forward. They would go about their business as if the meeting had never taken place. Forewarned was forearmed.
The Doc did a good job of distracting Schmee at a local art museum. It wasn’t even intentional on the Doc’s part, therefore less likely to attract Schmee’s towards what she wanted to remain hidden. At least Nadina hoped so. She hated keeping secrets. They were like rabbits. They made everything a huge mess and had a habit of multiplying.
The cargo was discreetly loaded into the outside smuggling compartment. It was legit cargo, but SHE didn’t want to have to explain 150 million in gold to anyone who might search the ship. She neglected to file the paperwork on that particular cargo. She didn’t want a paper trail that Schmee would most likely follow. Even though it was legit, she was treating it like smuggled goods and keeping the records of this cargo strictly in her head, she didn’t even dare keep track of it in her “other” books.
She thought it suspicious when two Sword Worlders requested berth on their ship. It was just a little too convenient. Ben and Cain could handle them. She did not make it a secret they were heading toward that sector of space. She even befriended them and used her “skills” to see if they were on the up and up. She blithely fed them a diet of misinformation, as she confirmed for herself that they worked for a rival shipping company. Hard was for tossing them out of the airlock. Then Swordworlders began training with her Security Officer. She grew concerned. Ben was as honest a person she had ever known, sometimes, too honest and too truthful. It was those things that endeared the Security Officer to her. She had no doubt of his skill in combat, but it was the freedom of his words to others that caused her pause.
They had cleared a small space in the cargo hold as a practice ring. As long as none of the merchandise got damaged, she didn’t mind. Many times as they were practicing hand to hand combat Nadina perched at a good vantage point and watched. She liked to think it was to keep an eye on things, but she knew why she was there and would not kid herself. Perhaps she should get Ben to give her some private lessons. After some thought she decided that might not be such a good idea.
They headed toward Frenzie. She had to get the monstrosity of Kree artwork sent off. She was happy to see it go. It was starting to leave a strange odor. They would have to get the oxygen filters on the lady Macbeth scrubbed to get the weird taint out of the air supply. While planetside she also was going to get that mailbox set up. She didn’t know when she would check it in the future, but at least it was there. She had no idea if the letters she had sent would have an effect. Then, almost in answer to the letters, Hard told her Section Sigma or the Imperium Psi cops had a watch out on her ship. The crew speculated as to why. Deep in her heart, Nadina was afraid that she knew why. Did she want to tell the crew? It looked like she might not have a choice. They already knew most of it. What she knew, she didn’t really know. It was information from a vision or a psychic impression. Most would not count that as valid intel.
She decided to tell the crew what she felt she knew. She told the crew she felt her father had once worked for an agency, perhaps Section Sigma itself. At this point, she felt that her parents had protected her from them while she was growing up. She also felt that the Zhodoni was also looking for her. Yes, she did have some ability, she could feel others emotions, and sometimes understand what others were thinking. It was pretty minor at best. She honestly didn’t think that her abilities were so unusual as to have two governments looking for her, and that puzzled her greatly. She didn’t feel that she was important enough to create such a hunt or a search. She also didn’t feel the Doctors abilities would create such a stir either. It was her plan to go to a place where she could seek out more training. If she was going to have these people hunting her and her ship, she wanted a way to protect her crew and herself from them.
What she needed was some options on how to throw the Imperium and the Zhodoni off of their trail in order to make it to a planet for more training. Even then, she was unsure how far she could even trust those people who said they could train her, not that she was going to tell the crew THAT. Perhaps she should try and contact Dev. He had gone there. He would know, unless they had turned him.
Generally it was business as usual. She didn’t want the ship to seem to do something out of the ordinary. A few jumps and landfalls later, they were soon ready to jump into Sword World space. She still didn’t trust the two passengers, and the crew found away to keep them locked in their cabin during the jump.
Nadina was not surprised when there was a pirate at the jump point. She tried to reason with them. They insisted they come aboard. They knew what she was carrying, and aimed to have it. Schmee assessed her with his eyes. If the Goblyn hadn’t realized by now that she had hidden something from him, he did now. Hard was going nuts. Nadina realized if she even thought of allowing these pirates aboard, she would have nothing short of mutiny on hand. She didn’t have to be psychic to figure that out.
She told them she had no idea what they were talking about, and that she would NOT allow them on board. She had no guarantee that if they came on board that they wouldn’t steal her ship. They had battled pirates before, and they were just another pirate.
The Captain of the ship smirked and said they were much tougher than the pathetic ship the Gundarin and the idiot Captain Freiling. So, they had done there homework and knew who they were. Not a real pleasant thought. There was no way she was going to allow them on HER ship.
With heart in her throat, the combat began. She watched Hard closely. He was a marvel at dodging incoming fire. Perhaps she could learn a few pointers from him. Schmee was navigating the ship in a manner that somewhat alarmed her. They were heading toward the pirates at top speed? Ben and Cain had lasers lance toward the pirates and the first few shots had found entry into the other ships weak spots. It was obvious that this pirate crew was better trained than the others they had met in battle; however, the pirates still had underestimated her crew. What the Lady Macbeth lacked in speed and firepower was more than made up by the skill and experience. The pirate ship soon bugged out.
A report was filed. Nadina was sure that the official report would become “lost”. The company that sponsored this attempt surely had the money and the clout to obscure and spin the information any way they wanted.
Hard unceremoniously dumped the two Swordworlders on the next planet they jumped to. It was obvious they had tried to break out of their room during battle. Nadina shuddered to think how that would have caused all kinds of nasty things to happen.
The Lady Macbeth and crew were soon on the way to Narsil, the planet where they had to make the drop. Schmee was suddenly very helpful. He was suggesting many ways and ideas on how to help the ship evade Section Sigma. Maybe it was that strong sense of self preservation kicking in, or maybe it was another agenda. However, his ideas were valid. She really liked how he thought. How much could they do in evading? Could the transponder be changed on the ship and the named changed and papers forged? Would she really consider selling the Lady Macbeth and upgrading to a bigger ship? She really needed the input of the crew. The final decision was hers.
As they approached the planet, a PDB requested to board the ship. They were bigger, faster, and deadlier. The Lady Macbeth would not last one nano second against a ship like that. Nadina knew all of her books were in order, and knew, barring them finding the hidden compartment on the outside of the ship or her own hidden stash, that they would not find much of interest. The other ship scanned outside the ship. Nadina breathed a sigh of relief when the hidden compartment holding all 150 million credits worth of precious metals was not detected.
The ship was boarded. Nadina felt violated as the ship was gone over with a fine tooth comb. This was not something she wanted to do again for a very long time.
They found the hidden compartment on the bridge. It had weapons cashed inside. Hard explained it was reserves just incase the ship was boarded by pirates. They missed the one in her quarters. She wasn’t sure how she could explain the money she had stashed in there. It was much like the hidden cargo; liquid cash, gems, gold, precious metals for emergencies when she couldn’t get to her credits.
They located the large concealed compartment in the cargo bay. She was glad for once it was empty. She told them she had discovered it after aquiring the ship and sometimes used the area as extra storage. She made a mental note to have that compartment hidden better in the future.
She told them to check engineering at their own risk. She didn’t even go in there. It rather got there attention when Hard said just about the same thing, so off they went. The big robot was now fully operational. It still looked pretty intimidating even with a large wrench instead of a gun. The people poked around here and there while Bart began to explain things in engineer-eeze. Her eyes slightly glazed over at some lengthy techno jargon. She idly pushed a button or two until Hard glared at her. She just wanted to see what they did. Nothing blew up or fell off, so no damage done.
The inspection done and passed, she escorted the men back to their shuttle. Soon they would skim for fuel and land on the planet. She could only wonder what awaited them there. She was certain whatever it was, wasn’t going to be easy. Maybe she should take Schmee’s advice and research the possibility of someone on this world who could help train her. They weren’t in the Imperium anymore and from time to time in the past the Swordworlds had sided with the Zhodoni. They may not have the same aversion to psi powers as others. She would have to do some discreet checking. It would sure save a lot of time and effort. Then again, there is nothing quite like waving a big red flag over your head, which might happen if her quires came to the unwanted attention of someone planetside.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Saturday, 06.3.06 @ 20:29pm | #82
Quote:
Is it common knowledge that Section Sigma is keeping tabs on the ship?
I believe that Hard informed the Captain and the rest of the crew.
As far as the rest of the galaxy knowing, only personnel at Imperial Navy installations that have received the order would know.
Posted by GM on Thursday, 06.1.06 @ 11:12am | #81
I would like to propose some research/developement on the following types of missles.
1) A Maneuver Drive Feedback missle (MDF missle). It would require a hit to the enemies engines (called shot to engines at appropriate minus). It would need to be able to knock out the enemies maneuver drive for between 30 and 60 min to be effective.
2) An EMP missle. It would "blind" all ships in a large area. All ships in area would have to move without sensors for an hour or two and then could look for ships once again. It might be a good way to get away if were out numbered.
Posted by Schmee on Wednesday, 05.31.06 @ 17:37pm | #80
Is it common knowledge that Section Sigma is keeping tabs on the ship?
Posted by Schmee on Wednesday, 05.31.06 @ 17:24pm | #79
Test - I screwed some stuff up on the site and want to make sure everything is working.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Sunday, 04.30.06 @ 02:48am | #77
What the heck were they thinking of doing? Nadina couldn’t quite believe that they were actually going to steal back a stolen piece of art work. She really must be crazy. Were they becoming more like pirates? Maybe privateers would be a better word for it. She listened again as Schmee and Hard went over the plan one more time. She hoped that there would be no killing. There was no reason to kill anyone, maybe except the leader, He had arranged for the artwork to be stolen in the first place and therefore was not an innocent. The thought still chilled her blood. She had never actually personally killed someone before, and the thought left her feeling a little queasy.
She hoped they could sneak in and sneak out, take want they wanted. That is what the plan called for. However, she knew that once things started to happen, the best laid plans were, well, fluid and usually never came off they way the were planned. It left her uneasy. She had planned to be on the air raft, if she was going to risk her crew, she should be with them. However, somehow the plan had her on the ATV launching smoke grenades. Hard obviously did not think she could handle herself in combat or in stealth operations, and somehow had relegated her to the ATV. She wasn’t quite sure how THAT had happened. Still, her crew was doing what they were paid for. The crew must think she was a total idiot. Even Ben carefully pointed out which button she needed to push to launch the grenades. If Ben wasn’t careful, he just might make her angry, which for him would be tough to do.
Tense and nervous they began the diversion. Nadine was somewhat disappointed they only drew off two guards. Well it was time to make some noise and see if they could draw more people out. It didn’t quite work out as planned. Heck, nothing turned out as planned. It seemed that everything had completely flown out the window at the speed of light. They had run into the dreaded SNAFU, and here she was, stuck in the bloody ATV, unable to exit while Hard, Schmee and the Doctor were taking hostile fire. Ben decided to take the ATV into the camp. It was the place she wanted to be, she was going to take the wheel of the monster vehicle. It couldn’t be too hard to drive in a straight line right? Bart jumped in the seat instead and Ben manned the turret. She wanted to scream in frustration. Those were her people out there! If they died it was her responsibility.
With Ben in the turret, the front gate was soon a pile of rubble; Bart was driving like a total manic. Nadina made a mental note to never let Bart drive again; she shuddered when he ran into his first live target. The ATV swerved and threw her against Ben; she hastily pulled herself off of him and quickly followed him out the back hatch. Still rattled by being tossed around in the back of the ATV she missed stepped and tumbled ungracefully onto her butt, not to worried about impressions, either of her co-workers or that of the ground, she quickly picked herself up and dashed around the corner, to find herself face to face with Brother Mora. His eyes were glowing and suddenly, she knew her mind was being invaded but didn’t care. For some strange reason she seemed to think it was silly that she served aliens. She shook her head. She didn’t serve anybody. The crew served her! She threw off the mind control just in time to see Hard place his pistol to the Brothers head. It was all in slow motion as the trigger was pulled and brains and blood gushed everywhere. She quickly ran into the storage shed and tried not to lose all of her last meal. The carnage was very real. There were wounded, dead and dieing everywhere. The camp looked like it was in a war zone. Well, technically, it had been. The whole thing left her highly nauseated. She didn’t want any authorities linking this whole mess back to her or the Lady Macbeth. They began to make the whole thing look like a Varger Raid.
They took what they came for and a few other items and eventually met back at the ship. The drive home had been quiet and long. Ben was still upset at Hard for killing the leader and he was not in the same even-tempered mood that she usually associated with her security officer. Bart was still going on and on about how he drove the ATV and how many people he had actually ran over. She shivered, sighed and looked out the window.
She realized that the leader had used psychic mind control on her. She was thinking that perhaps this new religion was a front for Zhodoni to infiltrate other planets in the guise of religion. He had experimental Zhodoni drugs. She was sure they wouldn’t hand those out to just anybody. Those poor men were so mind controlled, that she wondered if they had even joined of their own free will. She shivered. Was this the kind of training that she wanted to pursue? The thought left her feeling vaguely dirty. However, if she had almost fallen victim to that priest, how easily would she fall to someone like her brother who may or not have been raised to exploit this full potential.
She started to despise Zhodoni. They sought to control people, taking away everyone’s personal freedom. That was sick and wrong, and against everything she deeply believed. What was she willing to become to stop others like her from trying to control and use her against other people? How low would she go? Would she use any abilities to actually help people? Only time could tell. She really needed to get to that planet. But first she had to figure out a lucrative way to get there, and that meant trading and doing what she did best.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Friday, 04.28.06 @ 19:57pm | #76
I can teach her all the "girl stuff" and any business stuff that might be helpful as the head of a royal house. She should at least recognize when someone is trying to hoodwink her in the business world.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Saturday, 04.22.06 @ 14:30pm | #75
I can also teach life sciences. We could use another medic. Mr Cain also has a wide range of experience to draw upon for further lessons.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Friday, 04.21.06 @ 21:22pm | #74
I think we should put in the paperwork to get mail in the Arden Federation. Also, we can see about gathering intelligence for them. The Captain can do economic forcasts and our sensor logs can record how much trafic is going in and out of systems.
Also, we need to develop a learning schedule for the kid. I can handle math, computers, and physics. I would suggest the Doc handle teaching her what she needs to know to get by in noble society. And Ben can teach her armed and unarmed combat. Anyone else have some suggestions on education.
Posted by Schmee on Thursday, 04.20.06 @ 20:44pm | #73
Zhodani thought police?
http://theminiaturespage.com/news/113634/
Posted by Dr Caliban on Thursday, 04.20.06 @ 03:44am | #72
We could do it with x-boat mail.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Thursday, 04.20.06 @ 03:34am | #71
Doctor,
I suppose it is wisdom to move the money as you suggested. However, if we were to do that, It should have been done back on Regina. I guess if you look at it in a certain way. It is actually free money. I say, let it ride for now. If Schmee is correct it will take up to two years for the stock in the other company to fail, and for use to see any profit. If and when we ever make it back to Regina, we can think about it again.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Monday, 04.17.06 @ 21:51pm | #70
She looked in shock as the information of her parents deaths scrolled innocently across the screen. She closed her eyes a moment. She really hadn’t wanted to believe her dream. She had tried to put if off as a figment of her imagination and strong drink. She ought to have known better, she HAD known. She just didn’t want to accept in her heart what she knew was true. It was the news that she was waiting for, but dreading to hear.
She stood up from the computer screen on the bridge, not caring to clear the screen, allowing the computer to scan other news. She avoided the glances of Hard and Schmee as she calmly walked toward her cabin.
She shut the door, moved woodenly to her bed, gathered up her stuffed bear and sat down, her mind lost in a haze of questions and emotions.
Her parting with her father had not been the best. She had always thought to make up with him someday. He hadn’t wanted her to become a far trader captain. That had lead to a heated argument and her quick departure from Ilelish.
If her dream about her parents were correct. They sure as shootin didn’t die in no fire. It opened a whole beehive of nasty questions. At least it did to her mind. She gazed down at the teddy bear that she held, letting her mind touch on subjects where it would. She began to consider the dream she had.
Was one or both of her parents Zhodani? She had just thought she was one of those unlucky people born with psychic abilities. Then again, she had always heard that psychics bred true. If her parents were Zhodani, what were they doing in the heart of Imperium space? Could her father have been training Imperium thought police? If that was the case, why hadn’t she been inducted into that branch of the service? Her father had known of her abilities. When she learned what she could do, he had warned and cautioned her very severely on their use. He had been very strict, which was probably one of the reasons she had rebelled. She really hadn’t begun to use her gifts until she was out on her own.
She had never suspected that her father had any abilities. If he was psychic, he had hidden it very well. She would have never guessed he had a lick of ability. However the one time she tried to read his mind, she had been put down so hard that she had never even considered doing it again. She knew her mother was empathic, which is where she had always thought she had gotten her abilities. Now she was not so certain.
So, she had a brother who was searching for and found her parents. Why had they never told her of him? Who was he? Why had he been kept hidden from her? Was he an agent for the Zhodani? That was the impression she got from the dream.
Her brother did not kill their parents, but again she had gotten the impression that he would have wanted to, but getting information from them and making them an example seemed to be more important. So, who had killed her parents? It must have been the agency her father had worked for. Why kill them, why not rescue them instead?
Who would be powerful enough to cover the deaths up? Even if a body was burned, it would still be possible to find the bullet holes. Somebody powerful in the Imperium or at least the local police had to have a hand in that story to the media.
She came to a decision. She carefully placed her bear back on her bed and headed back to the bridge. Asking Hard for some star charts she did some thinking. She wanted a place that was on the main trade route, away from where they normally berthed. Firenz (check spelling) looked to be a good place. She could set up a mail box there. If her brother was trying to track her and if he was up to no good (which she really thought he was) she didn’t really want to leave a calling card on where she could really be found. Even if she was psychic, she had no love of the Zhodani Empire. They seemed intent in destroying the freedom that she so enjoyed. She had seen first hand some of the atrocities they had committed. She would never willing have anything to do with a society like that. She did not think that any meeting between her and her brother would go well.
She had two letters to write, one to 1st Sgt Jeff Franklin the officer in charge of the investigation and one to Dr. Greggor McMillin her father’s best friend and associate at the “clinic” where he father had worked. Being so far away from home there was little that she could do, however, she wanted to rattle the beehive a bit and see what happened.
Meanwhile, she was going to check out the planet the priest had told them about. She was not about to be used as a pawn in some on going governmental game, and that meant exploring any further abilities to protect herself.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Sunday, 04.16.06 @ 14:35pm | #69
Found this for expanding the ship's cargo capacity:
Posted by Dr Caliban on Saturday, 04.15.06 @ 23:40pm | #68
I was thinking about the reinvestments of the software profits. We really should diversify to protect the money. Perhaps 100k in 8 different sectors instead of all in one?
Posted by Dr Caliban on Friday, 04.14.06 @ 21:21pm | #67
And here I always thought Regina was a little boring.....
Posted by Dr Caliban on Monday, 04.10.06 @ 17:09pm | #66
Actually I suspect Grandfather is psionic himself.
I like the Captain's plan of using her talents to feel out Damsane. I really hadn't intended to try to blackmail him.
It would be eaiser for Grandfather to make a clandestine meeting on Regina rather than space. The family doesn't travel all that much. I had only been in orbit twice before I signed on.
I would send a much more vague message. He'll know who it came from.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Friday, 04.7.06 @ 23:56pm | #65
I agree on the point that most humans hate anything to do with psionics, even if it is something as useful and beneficial as the doctors healing abilities. As you all know, I have a few myself and do not want any Psi cops sniffing around. I don’t really want to be on the run because of my “talents”.
I don’t want this crew to come under scrutiny. We are a mixed bag. I like it that way. However, I’m sure that certain authorities would take more than a passing interest. I really don’t want it published what ship and what crew rescued the girl on all the news reports from here to Timbuktu. I think I would like to stay out of the lime light at this point in my life, as I think the doctor and Schmee would agree.
I can’t say that I am an actress, but I would most likely be the one to contact the doctor’s grandfather. Being empathic, I can gauge to some extent what he would be feeling about his grandson and about Holly. As Hard likes to say, I am the most expendable of the crew even if I am the captain. Being a business person, at least gives me some skills in dealing with people that others may not have. I am NOT an actress; however I have won several beauty contests, so I generally know what not to do in social situations, so perhaps that will count as something.
I think a lot of this may decide on what the Grandfather says. If the situation is negative, I say we sell what is in our holds, pick up new cargo and head on our merry way with a new crew member. I don’t quite like the living conditions of sharing my cabin with a young girl, but she sure as shootin’ ain’t sharing quarters with any of you yahoos.
But, if the situation is favorable, perhaps the Grandfather could arrange a meeting with Demetric Damsane. Perhaps we could use that small load of Hedlar wood and set the meeting up as a business meeting. I could see if this gent would welcome his niece, or if he is a low bellied snake. I could feel out the situation, using those certain skills. If I don’t like the situation and how it feels, I’ll sell him the wood (or other commodity) and leave no one the wiser. But if he turns out to be a decent guy then we can deal.
Last thing I would want this guy to do would be to accuse us as kidnappers. I’m sorry Dr Caliban, but your kind of folk play a mean nasty game of which I no nothing about, or particularly care to learn. I reckon certain folk won’t give up money unless they have to, and can think of double crossing ways on trying to keep it.
I think Schmee was correct in wanting to gather information. Just like in business, the more you know, usually the better the deal. We will just have to watch out for any triggers looking for certain information might cause, and I want as few links back to the ship as possible. We already have a psycho pirate after us. We don’t want someone who has power and money after our butts. (And no Schmee, there is no one that I am aware of on Regina who wants to kill or arrest me)
Does anyone else have any other input? I find that we can usually come up with good plans when we all work together.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Friday, 04.7.06 @ 22:35pm | #64
Well, the way I would prefer it to go... We would have gotten a message to your grand father via a trader headed into system from the last starport. We would try to arrange a meeting in space, where we have some chance of running if it goes bad.
Let's look at the big picture.
1) We don't know how your grand father is going to take this news. There are many humans with an extreame dislike of psionics.
2) We don't know what your grand father is going to think of this 12 year old girl. We cannot assume it will be positive, though you can give the best estimate.
3) The Lady MacBeth is crewed by misfits, myself included. It has worked well up to now because we all seem to fit in, but the law will probably find us intrigeing to say the least.
4) We have a good deal of conflict here, so there is, theoreticly, opprotunity. (Old goblyn proverb) We just have to thread the needle so to speak.
5) There are people who want to kill me on Regina. There seem to be a lot of people who want to kill the doctor on Regina. Anyone else?
6) The ship set down on Regina a month or 2 ago without incident. This implies that my enemies don't know I'm a member of this crew and the psi cops don't have a lead on the doctor.
7) It is my understanding that the psi cops use psionics themselves, so our adversary's capabilities are an unknown.
OK, my initial thoughts:
The above statments generally outline what we're up against. Our first move should be to gather as much information as possible. Once we get within communication range we can start searching news data bases. I am interested in knowing the where abouts of my enemies. I am interested in knowing what the papers said about the doctors disappearance, what statements were made by his family. Are there wanted posters for the doctor? An all points bulletin? Or, perhaps there is just silence, the psi cops sniffing around, but not drawing attention to the investigation. I would also be interested in knowing how they tracked you down the first time. Any additional information on the kid would be helpful.
I am opposed to the doctor meeting his grand father. If his grand father thinks ill of his talants it leads everyone right back to the ship. I would instead suggest someone else meet or get a message to his grand father and test the waters. The message would be something like this: Your grand son wants to let you know he is alive and ok. He understands that he cannot return to the family with this dark cloud over his head, but would be comforted by the knowledge that you have not personally forsaken him. If this is a message then it needs to be encrypted or coded and we need to break any link to the ship. If we deliver the message in person that individual needs to appear as something other than a member of a ships crew.
We have already discussed the kid to some extent. A human child is not a big concern to me, but I recognize this is not the case with the rest of the crew. Still I suggest we not mention the child just yet. Let's see where you stand with your grand father first.
Posted by Schmee on Friday, 04.7.06 @ 21:10pm | #63
I'm not going to actually do anything yet, just meet with Grandfather and see what he thinks and to get the lay of the land.
A meeting with short notice for him would also give any possible opponents little time to prepare. I think the chances for actually having opponents yet on this are pretty small, however, if I've learned anything from you it's to err on the side of caution. We've known we were returning to Regina since leaving Keanu, so we've had several weeks to discuss strategy. I just waited until we were close to give you my whole story.
We're in this as a crew so anyone is welcome to chime in. I'm not good at logistic and stategic planning. This time we might have some money and power behind us, depending on what Grandfather has to say.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Friday, 04.7.06 @ 20:21pm | #62
I suppose many of us have things they hide. I knew you were hiding something. I would suggest that you not go into acting any time soon. I am not pleased that you are a sought over person on Regina for being psionically gifted. That could attract attention, towards this ship, (and myself) which I don’t particular care for. Your timing is well…let’s say it stinks.
I would imagine you don’t want to attract any attention to yourself. The news of TWO lost heirs of two rich houses would be a bit much.
I want you all to give me some suggestions on how to handle this situation. I know Schmee won’t want to get off the ship at Regina. I’m not sure if the Doc will want to either.
So if you all have any ideas I’d like to hear them
Posted by Captain Rafik on Friday, 04.7.06 @ 17:32pm | #61
Well Doc, you didn't give us much time to research or develop a plan.
Posted by Schmee on Thursday, 04.6.06 @ 15:08pm | #60
The day before we exit jumpspace I will get the crew together and tell them this:
I know you all know I've got something to hide. I didn't want to needlessly endanger anyone. I appreciate the chance you've taken with me and indulging me my badly-acted charade. With the discovery of a possible heir to an important house on and our return to Regina I feel it's only fair to reveal myself to my shipmates.....
"My real name is Tyrell Anaan Aldeon, III. Yes, those Aldeons; one of the oldest Houses on Regina. We trace our lineage back to Ulysses Aldeon, Captain of the Dawn Treader, first colony ship to touch down on Regina. We have had our fingers into everything profitable on Regina ever since. We may not be the largest or richest House on Regina, but we are one of the most influential.
I grew up accustomed to wealth and privilege and all the advantages they bring. I had the best of everything and wanted for nothing. My whole life was planned to prepare me to take my place in the family’s business empire with my brothers. Even my future marriage had been carefully arraigned to increase the family’s power and prestige. As I became a teen, I slowly began to resent the way my path had been set. I began to rebel against it; wild parties, dangerous stunts, and scrapes with the law. The only thing I really cared about was my fencing lessons. It was the only thing at which I felt I was any good.
Finally, after smashing my expensive new flitter into a police g-carrier, I landed in jail. To my astonishment, no one came to bail me out and take me home. After three days languishing in a cell I got another shock; my grandfather came to see me. Tyrell Anaan Aldeon I was a great barrel-chested bear of a man. I didn’t know him very well and as a child had always been a little afraid of him. I think I still was.
In his gravelly voice he gave me a choice: I could either leave the family or attend the medical school at Mount Regina and become a doctor. I was stunned. Grandfather had a well-earned reputation for being hard-nosed. When I asked why, he said he had come to the conclusion that I didn’t belong in business and that the family would benefit from a doctor in the House (I remember him chuckling at this. I don't know why, but Grandfather always did have a quirky sense of humor). Plus, he added with a wolfish grin, it would really piss off Tad Eslinger when he found out his daughter wouldn’t be marrying into Aldeon House.
I could hardly believe my ears. Grandfather had given me my freedom. All I had to do was slide through school. I stood up, shook his hand and accepted his offer. As we walked out of the local lock-up he gestured me to a waiting car. He told me the driver would take me to school.
Now.
Although the term was already a week underway and I hadn’t even applied, school officials were ready and waiting with my class schedule, books, and cafeteria credit slip.
After a week I was caught up. After a month I was interested. After three months I was obsessed. How had Grandfather known this is what I wanted all along? My world narrowed to my coursework. I rarely communicated with the family, just visiting briefly on holidays. Grandfather always made a point of asking how I was doing. Although I suspected he already knew the answers, I always spoke at length about what I had been learning that semester.
I finished a six year program in five and graduated in the top first percentile of my class. At my graduation, Grandfather presented me with his rapier. He said he was very proud of me and that I had earned it. It had been commissioned by his grandfather from the Macevicius Bladeworks and was one of the family’s heirlooms. My brothers were scandalized, although none of them would have dared say a word to Grandfather. Besides, none of them were my equal with a blade.
My high marks allowed me to land an internship with the best hospital on Regina. I honed my surgery skills and began to develop a reputation as a gifted diagnostician. Sometimes I just knew how my patients felt and what to do for them.
I began to feel that I could do more elsewhere, away from the wealthy patients I had been treating. I began to moonlight in small clinics in the slums around the city. It was during one of these sessions that it happened.
A young boy had been brought in suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. I knew I couldn’t save him, but had to try. The child flatlined during the operation. We tried everything. Finally, out of frustration I tried old-fashioned hands-on CPR. The child wasn’t responding and it made me angry. I felt something break loose inside my head and my hands felt like they were on fire where they touched the boy’s chest. My vision blurred and I felt waves of weakness and nausea roll through me. I though I was having a stroke. My nurse quickly moved to steady me and pointed at the EKG. The boy’s heart was beating; weakly, but steadily. I smiled wanly at her and mumbled something about the old ways sometimes being the best. I staggered off to an unoccupied office to rest and think.
I began to research what had happened to me. Eventually I came to the conclusion that I was psionically gifted. This could be revealed to no one. If this got out I could be arrested. I would certainly lose my position and the family would be scandalized.
Despite the risk, this was a gift that had to be used. After a long period of trial and error, I learned to call the healing at will and lessen the effect of the weakness and nausea. Eventually the string of quick-healing patients and information searches on the worldnet began to attract the wrong sort of attention. Knowing the authorities would eventually come, I had prepared my disappearance with escape routes, false papers and extra cash.
They were waiting for me at work. I had decided to walk to the hospital after my fencing match. As I approached I noticed several police cars near the entrances and several stunner-armed officers obviously guarding the main entrance. I turned around, walked away and didn’t look back. I picked up a cache of clothes and money I had hidden at one of the free clinics where I’d volunteered and disappeared into the slums.
The papers said I’d been kidnapped and there was a city-wide manhunt. I spent most of that time in the sewers getting to know my fellow dregs and learning how to survive. Once the initial furor over the disappearance of an Aldeon heir had cooled somewhat, I began to look for ways off-world. The Lady Macbeth provided the perfect opportunity."
House Aldeon's speciality is information. This should serve well in our particular situation. I don't know what the current climate concerning psionics on Regina is now, but it was hostile when I left. I will be contacting Grandfather to arrange a meeting as soon as we emerge from jumpspace. I will give him the information I have on Holisara; DNA, vids and the rest of the anecdotal information she provided and start from there.
While it doesn't happen as much today, the Great Houses of Regina can rival the Machiavellian dance of Old Earth's Italy. House Damsane is no exception.
Whatever the next couple of weeks bring, it promises to be.....interesting.
I suggest fueling the ship as soon as we land.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Thursday, 04.6.06 @ 05:37am | #59
So, would you say in the Goblyn society, you throw the young into life and let them sink or swim?
Maybe in some humans the adults are just trying to protect what they once had?
Any more philosophy Schmee?
Posted by Captain Rafik on Tuesday, 04.4.06 @ 17:38pm | #58
Ahh, the over protection of the young. I do remember something about that in human traits class. Although I certainly defer to your decision as Captain, I also feel I should point out the condition she was living in prior to finding her. I would hardly call improving her life considerably "exploitation."
Posted by Schmee on Saturday, 04.1.06 @ 05:55am | #57
“That sounds a lot like child exploitation, Schmee.” I may have let a lot of values slide since becoming a spacer. I will not exploit a child. If her Uncle were a total sleeze-ball, I would keep her part of the crew for her own safety. Otherwise, it ain’t gonna happen…profit or no profit. You are a real schemer Schmee.”
Posted by Captain Rafik on Thursday, 03.30.06 @ 17:30pm | #56
I am thinking I would prefer to gather intelligence of the Fed of Arden over the Imperium. Anyone else have a preferance?
Also, we could keep the kid on board for 6 years. She knows her way around a space ship; it would be cheap labor. And best of all the reward would come strait from her so it would be many times bigger!
Posted by Schmee on Thursday, 03.30.06 @ 06:49am | #55
You are at least a week behind, but the Gundarin was severely mauled in your encounter. Its going to take time to repair.
Posted by GM on Saturday, 03.25.06 @ 00:45am | #54
Come on folks, how about some ideas about what we're going to do concerning the Gundarin. I'm guessing we are around a week behind at this point.
Posted by Schmee on Sunday, 03.19.06 @ 20:40pm | #53
I like how Schmee thinks. I was thinking the same thing...
Posted by Captain Rafik on Friday, 03.17.06 @ 09:18am | #52
I think the Captain should smooze up to the local commander of the scout base. We have given them the sensor logs, with the right kind of pressure maybe we can have Captain Freiling and his ship the Gundarin offically declared pirates.
Next we need to come up with a plan to deal with the Gundarin
Posted by Schmee on Thursday, 03.16.06 @ 19:22pm | #51
Another excellent write up Susan!
Posted by GM on Thursday, 03.16.06 @ 10:46am | #50
Captains Log
She gazed thoughtfully out the window of her cabin. She regarded the space wreck in front of her. This was just like taking candy from a baby. If this turned out even half as profitable as she thought. She would really have to think about giving Zac Glar some sort of finder’s fee.
There wasn’t much left to do but to send Ben, Schmee and Bart over to see what was salvageable. She chewed her bottom lip. Going over there was going to be dangerous. Did she want to risk three crewmembers? The thought frightened her. Maybe she could prevent at least one of them from getting hurt…but which one? She shook her head impatiently and tried to shrug the idea off. They were doing what she paid them for. There was always an element of risk.
Turning away from the window, she collected her thoughts and walked out into the hallway. Schmee was walking up the passage toward her. He had a pensive look on his face. The Goblyn wasn’t much to look at. Darn near hideous, but after serving with him, she knew more than to judge him on looks alone. He was smart, smarter than she was. He had a certain way of thinking that she had to admit that she liked. He was a little more conservative and distrustful…well okay…a lot more conservative and distrustful than she was. He was the voice of caution and he tended to balance the impulsiveness that she sometimes displayed.
He walked beside her and began to speak. “Captain, I think this situation is too easy. Have you ever heard of a mouse trap?”
She walked into the common room where the other crewmembers were gathered. “A Mousetrap? What do you mean?” Hard looked up at the pair as they entered the room, his keen ears picking up on the conversation.
“I’m saying that this is a perfect setup. There could be ships out there just waiting to jump us once we split up our crew. I wouldn’t be surprised if that derelict was booby trapped.”
“Captain,” Hard cut in, “Schmee may be correct. I think we should scan the area around us before we send anyone out there.”
Nadina shook her head. She was certain that everything was fine. She had read Zac when he was talking about the crystal. She had not picked up any bad feelings from him regarding this wreck. She thought that they were both being paranoid. She was still not use to looking into other people’s thoughts.
It was a talent that she had tried to ignore while growing up. If she actually had an evil psychic brother out there, it looked like she would have to learn more if she was going to protect herself. She still didn’t even know if that dream was a dream. If her home planet wasn’t so far away she could go check. She was going to have to find out someway.
“Don’t you agree Captain?” Hard looked at her questioningly.
“Huh? What? Oh yeah…go head and do some passive scans.” She blushed slightly, embarrassed to have let her mind wander. After a moment of thought, she figured that it might not be a bad idea to run some scans after all, and it would keep Schmee and Hard happy.
She was not happy when some time later, Hard reported he had discovered energy readings where there should not be any. Schmee had been right after all. How could she have been so wrong about the situation?
Some discussion rose up with the crew. Most thought it would be a good idea if an explosion was set off. Schmee was certain that the drifting ship had to be booby trapped, and an explosion would signal the ships (there had to be a least two), to spring their trap.
Ben volunteered the use a space suit and set up an explosive charge. She nixed that idea even before Hard mentioned that Ben was one of best gunners and he would be needed in the turret. She just didn’t want to see Ben put himself into danger needlessly. She was not pleased with Hard’s next suggestion.
“The only one that is expendable is the Captain. Send her over. She’s not good with ships systems and doesn’t DO anything.”
Was the dog serious? Or was he just kidding? It was hard to tell with him sometimes. With heat in her voice she said. “If it wasn’t for me we wouldn’t be operating in the black. I’m the one who makes the money here.”
“Well, that’s true, but merchants are replaceable.” And so are bloody pilots she thought loudly to herself.
Through the skills of Bart and Ben, a device was made and skillfully guided to the gaping hole in the engineering section of the space hulk. As predicted when the charge was exploded, the ships came out of hiding to attack the Lady Macbeth. She wasn’t too surprised when one of the ships turned out to be Captain Freiling and his ship the Gundarin. When he started throwing insults was the limit. That man took grudges just a little bit too far. She had no illusions what he would do to her if this ship was captured. Better that it was blown apart than the treatment she and her crew would receive at the hands of that arrogant creature. Okay, maybe she did lead him on and kidnap him, but was it worth hijacking them? She did after all let him go.
Nadina was nervous. She had never been in a space battle before. She felt ten ways useless as Schmee and Hard showed there skills in the cockpit. Equally awesome was Ben and Caine’s skill in the turrets. She may have felt like a useless cog, but dang! She was good at putting a crew together. Two ships against one weren’t good odds. The pirates were faster and had that as a factor in their favor. They didn’t know the Lady Macbeths targeting computers had been upgraded and they had installed more powerful weapons in the turrets. That would be a surprise to them. This was not going to be the easy picking they thought it was going to be. Nadina at least hoped to bloody their noses.
The battle turned in there favor. The skill of the crew was the deciding factor…at least in Captain Rafiks mind. She watched as the two enemy ships run in different directions. She really wanted to get Captain Freiling. She now owed him. She would somehow get even with him. It may take some time, but it would happen. She thought that it would sure be justice if that arrogant, pigheaded, insufferable man was sold into slavery as somebody’s boy toy.
She briefly took over the con and Hard jumped on to the sensors to pick up any radio communication. It was the icing on the cake to hear the captain of the pirate ship Wallach dress down her nemesis Captain Freiling. The fool even broadcast where they were heading. Hopefully the Wallach would find that spud of a fool Zac Glar and give him what’s coming. If not, well she would have to put it on her to do list.
Once the Lady Macbeth towed that derelict space ship to dock and earn credits (hopefully enough to pay for the damage done to her ship), she was going hunting. Now the Gundarin was a pirate ship. They had logs and computer evidence to prove it. She wondered briefly how much reward one could get bringing in a space pirate. She wondered how many ships she could convince to go hunting for Captain Freiling and his crew. Hmmm… that was something worth thinking about.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Wednesday, 03.15.06 @ 22:23pm | #49
That would be way better than having to run down there every time. Thanks Bart.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Thursday, 03.2.06 @ 01:52am | #48
Bart can rig it so you can monitor the cryo tubes from your pocket/wrist computer/communicator.
Posted by GM on Monday, 02.27.06 @ 12:28pm | #47
I was wondering if it would be possible for Bart to wire up remote sensors on the cryotubes so I can monitor them from sick bay.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Tuesday, 02.14.06 @ 00:18am | #46
(backpedaling quickly) I probably should have said professional rather than great. Nothing snarky intended
Posted by Dr Caliban on Tuesday, 02.14.06 @ 00:14am | #45
The Captian doesn't need to know...As long as the captian doesn't have to bail you butts out of Jail...OR it compromises MY SHIP. I just hope your shore leave was better than mine.
By the way doc. Sorry about the sick bay...I hope I didn't mess it up to much.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Sunday, 02.12.06 @ 22:55pm | #44
As far as your inquiry concerning Hard, Doc, Ben, and myself: There is a long standing rule in the spacer business which states "what happens on shore leave stays on shore leave, as long as the Captain doesn't have to bail your butt out of jail."
Posted by Schmee on Saturday, 02.11.06 @ 20:31pm | #43
I would just like to point out that I have never complained about your cooking Captain.
Posted by Schmee on Saturday, 02.11.06 @ 20:28pm | #42
Hey! I take exception to the jab about "now we have a great cook". I AM a great cook! I'll have to rethink that autodoc I've been saving for out of MY personal funds.
Posted by Susan on Wednesday, 02.8.06 @ 18:07pm | #41
Sounds good to me, I could use a taste of civilization again.
Posted by Schmee on Saturday, 02.4.06 @ 16:05pm | #40
Swapping lasers sounds good to me. We will probably make money on it. We still need the autodoc. We'll be at Jewel in a week or so. Lots of opportunity there. Schmee shall we do the museum, theatre, symphony tour? I want to make up for not going when we were on Arden. I'm planning on stocking up on fine food and drink for the ship since we finally have a great cook.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Thursday, 02.2.06 @ 02:32am | #39
I fine with that. No need to kill him. Leave him on some small, out of the way world off the main routes. He should be fine in cryo for several months.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Thursday, 02.2.06 @ 02:26am | #38
How about trading in the 3 350 Mj lasers for another 405 Mj laser. That would outfit us pretty well.
Posted by Jeff on Saturday, 01.21.06 @ 09:56am | #37
What to do with the professor in Cryo:
I propose we drop him off on a sword world. Tell him we cleaned out the base and then sold it to one of the factions on the planet. There using it now as a secret headquarters. Give him 100 credits and let him go. He's a ingenious fellow, live and let live. Obviously we don't expect to cross paths again, if you come looking for us expect to find the business end of a gryoroc rifle.
I really am not cold blooded enough to take an unarmed man out and put a bullet in his head. I sort of hope none of you are either...
Posted by Schmee on Wednesday, 01.18.06 @ 17:32pm | #36
You'll be happy to know that Dev got to fire off a missile last night.
Posted by GM on Wednesday, 01.18.06 @ 13:16pm | #35
So, the Lady MacBeth got advanced targeting systems for the gunner turrets from the last mission, is this correct? Combine this with the fact that Bart is working feverishly on the rocket modifications he's been doing and there would seem to be no reservations on "wasting" rockets.
So, i would send an open log to Captain Rafik involving this matter. Is it still a taboo subject of firing rockets at an enemy ship if suddenly attacked? Should i ask permission before firing rockets or is it a matter of trusting my skill and judgement on doing this?
Posted by Dev on Sunday, 11.27.05 @ 01:04am | #34
I will attend. I need practice with my new sidearm.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Wednesday, 11.23.05 @ 21:00pm | #33
Is there any interest in contacting either Imperial or Arden officials and discussing the attrocities being committed on Quare? I bring it up because if we are leaving for the swordworlds then this is probably our last chance.
Also, we should buy a translator program if we haven't already. It seemed like a lack of funds was the only hinderence last time we priced the software.
Posted by Schmee on Wednesday, 11.23.05 @ 18:29pm | #32
How about this as a route. From Arden to Quare, Quare to Frenzie, Frenzie to Garda-Vilis. Try and find out what information I can on these three worlds. If the Captain can look into the economics of the route. I know Quare is where her uncle dropped off the Zhodonia squad and has insurgents.
Posted by Schmee on Wednesday, 11.23.05 @ 17:43pm | #31
Sounds good Ben. Let me know how i can assist.
Posted by Dev on Tuesday, 11.22.05 @ 14:54pm | #30
Hummph I hate adding extra duty to anyones list
but judging how things went against the mutant dogs I think a little target/tactics practice is
in order. During this jump I would like to request (not order) you all to meet with me for a little basic training and a weapons orientation
nothing heavy just a few pointers that i've learned that you may find usefull. And we can discuss the finer points of a fighting withdrawal
as the Cover you Crews ass while running away is useful.
Thank you
Posted by Ben on Monday, 11.21.05 @ 23:00pm | #29
I will pick up the doctors requested items. If the doctor speaks Zhodoni then a translation would not be necessary, otherwise look for a translation of the "encylopedia". The Captain might be a better choice for food and wine.
How about slugs for the shotgun, they should pack more of a wallop.
Posted by Schmee on Sunday, 11.13.05 @ 17:20pm | #28
Report on Indigenous Predator (Devil Dogs) Encountered on Edinina
The males stood an average of 2 meters at the shoulder, 3 meters long and average 200 kilos in weight. The female was slightly smaller at 1.75 meters high, 2.6 long and 170 kilos. They are armed with sharp canines in powerful jaws and are capable of bursts of speed up to approximately 50 kph. Any jumping or climbing abilities were not observed. They used pack hunting tactics by hitting the intended prey (logging party) from opposite directions.
Each is covered with thick shaggy hair colored to blend with their native surroundings.
Anatomically they resemble Terran canines closely. The only exceptions would be certain physical mutations such as extra toes. One male had extra tails. The heavily muscled jaw would be quite capable of causing injury to someone in light, if not medium armor.
A preliminary genetic study indicated the specimens are closely related to the Terran canine. Comparisons with other native samples prove these animals are not native to this world. Due to the high radiation of this world, the chromosomes of all four specimens (three males and one female) exhibited a large amount of damage and mutation. Two of the males were almost certainly sterile. Tests of tissue samples indicate they are resistant to high levels of radiation, but not immune. They must take cover as the native humans do when the radiation storms hit.
I believe they originally came to Edinina as survivors of the ship crashes and have adapted through rapid mutation.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Saturday, 11.12.05 @ 22:13pm | #27
The illness isn't caused by Imperial space.
Actually, I could use a better sidearm. Something with more punch than the shotgun I was using. A nice sampling of the local wine and food would be nice.
The other thing I was considering for the ship would be a copy of the Zhodani encyclopedia. It is typically known as simply "The Encyclopedia" and would be a useful general reference on all things Zhodani. I don't know if translations are available.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Saturday, 11.12.05 @ 20:44pm | #26
Not that it's any of my business doc, but you do realize we are out of imperial space right. You're with in the Federation of Arden now. There are some Imperial diplomats, agents, and traders in port, not that it would have any bearing on your illness. In any case, let me know if you want me to pick up some music downloads and/or such.
Posted by Schmee on Friday, 11.11.05 @ 11:20am | #25
Schmee,
As much as I would like to accompany you, I'm not feeling well and will be staying with the ship during our time on Arden.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Friday, 11.11.05 @ 03:38am | #24
Ships Log:
Well, as I guess I’m captain. I guess I better write a log. That’s what captains are suppose do to right?
We took on a wood run. We went to a place called Edinina to harvest Hedlar trees. It was supposed to be this big dangerous thing to do. I must have picked a pretty fine crew as they made everything seem easy. Schmee was thorough with his cal
Current Log Entries (most recent on top)
100 Log Entries (post your own)Hummm....how does one dress for dinner with a Hiver?
Posted by Dr Caliban on Monday, 09.10.07 @ 12:59pm | #100
Just a test post to make sure this interface still works and that the database is still updating.
Posted by Bob on Saturday, 09.1.07 @ 12:53pm | #99
Good suggestions, all. I would like to suggest medicines and medical supplies as possible cargos.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Thursday, 08.10.06 @ 02:39am | #98
I think we could check into the possibility of freighting things from Darrian Space to the Aslyn. We are supposed to be flying under the radar, so that means we need to take what money we can earn. High Tech on lower tech worlds should bring in more cash.
Remember, I just spent all the emergency loot on the upgrades to the ship. We have the possibility of running a little light until we can find a way to reaquire our cushion.
Remember we still have some cash invested in stocks on Regina.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Monday, 08.7.06 @ 19:55pm | #97
Since this is a very high tech world, and our intended course is toward Aslan space via a number of independent worlds, I think I might have an idea for cargo. I assume many of those worlds have ambassadors here and probably have managed to get some high tech equipment, either for themselves or their governments. Things like computers, grav cars, and maybe high tech weapons for their personal guards. I think maybe we can make a few credits hauling this stuff back to one of those backwater planets, especially since we're headed that direction anyway. We should have a reputation for being reliable and discreate, lets put it to good use.
Also, I've heard there are Aslan living in the Darrian Confederation. Perhaps we can get our hands on some high tech weapons designed for Aslan, that can't help but sell well once we hit Aslan space.
Posted by Schmee on Sunday, 08.6.06 @ 20:43pm | #96
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 @ 20:34pm | #95
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.”
Posted by Captain Rafik on Thursday, 08.3.06 @ 20:25pm | #94
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."
Posted by Captain Rafik on Tuesday, 07.4.06 @ 00:30am | #93
‘What a blasted cold world.’ Nadina thought to herself. She could understand why the population of this world was only 800 and something. She shivered in her parka. The sooner they got this interview over with the high muckity muck sheriff, the sooner she could get to the bar. She really wanted a drink right now.
The Sheriff gave them the low down. He was obviously linked to a ruling family or someone of great power, considering his last name was the same as the planet. The crew all headed towards Miss Kitties. No doubt the Sheriff got some sort of kickbacks for recommending her establishment over the others in the area.
It was a nice enough place. There was a high percentage of what looked like mercenaries. They must be linked to those shuttles at the port. Nadina knew that Hard and Ben were doing some work on the side for the Imperium. She didn’t ask too many questions about what they did, just enough to know that they were doing something. Besides, she had a growing dislike for the Sword Worlders in general, and if gathering information could thwart the spreading of there kind of rhetoric she was all for it.
The crew split up and mingled with the crowd. Several Mercs made there way to her. She let them buy her drinks and began to enjoy the light bantering. She was slightly annoyed when Hard buzzed her mentioning a trade possibility. Hadn’t he told her earlier to unwind and leave the business for the morning? She begged off for a few moments and talked to the bartender regarding an appointment for off loading food and entertainment supplies in the morning.
She glanced around. Schmee was sitting peacefully with two Darrian traders. Ben and Hard were gathered around the pool table talking to some of the mercs. Holly and the Doc were sitting at a table.
Everything seemed quite, too quite. She suddenly got the impulse to see what would happen if she stirred the pot on the mercs just a bit. Were they a cohesive unit, or was there a bit of a rivalry? She sidled up to one of the guys she had talked to earlier. With a word here, and glance there, she soon had two men from different units competing for her attentions. If she pushed just right, they would come to blows.
Suddenly a huge behemoth of a female sergeant type came barreling in. “I know your type missy, and I’m asking real nice for you to knock it off. We are all here for a nice time. We don’t need any of your type making trouble.”
“My type?” Nadina said demurely. “I’m sure I don’t understand what you are talking about.” She looked the big burley sergeant over. This monster towered over her by almost a foot. Nadina knew this lady would not hesitate to lay her out flat and roll her up into a nice little package with a sweet pink bow. “My crew and I just landed and were taking some R&R.” She noticed Hard looking in her direction. He was babysitting her again. She could take care of herself…sometimes. Looking levelly at the sergeant she spoke in a sweet tone. “I find it amazing you could have risen to rank in the society you come from. The Sword Worlds are so oppressive”
The sergeant returned her look. “I have dealt with your kind before. I have gotten were I am through work and ability. Not just on looks alone.” The sergeant looked at her pointedly insinuating that Nadina had no skills what so ever and only got where she was on her back. This mountain of a woman was trying to bait her?
Nadina shrugged. “Can I help it that no matter where I go, men follow me around?” She asked rhetorically in a light airy tone not expecting an answer. “Did they not come to me first?” She purposefully looked over the sergeant and let her eyes slide away as if she saw nothing worth looking at. If the woman had no self-control, she would be in big trouble. Nadina was betting that the woman prided herself on discipline. “I am the captain of a merchant vessel. I know my business and know it well. I handle cargo and all business negotiations. That takes brains not brawn.” Her dark eyes turned to ice. It was not a look she had ever leveled at the crew, and hinted at steel hidden within. She didn’t know how she was going to get out of this gracefully, but knew she didn’t want to end up some space flotsam either. It was time for a tactical retreat. This gorilla wasn’t letting herself get fast-talked. “I just came in for a drink and to wind down.”
“You just leave my boys alone.” The large woman warned. Nadina was slightly surprised that the woman didn’t crack her knuckles. She nodded noncommittally. She thought it stragitically wise to let the woman have the last word.
This did not put her in a great frame of mind, nor did it help that the behemoth female sergeant kept eyeing her, taking all pleasure out of her relaxation. She was relieved when it was decided to go to another bar. Schmee declined and continued his visit with the Darrians.
The new bar did not help her ruffled feathers any. Hard and Ben were busy talking to a Vargr officer with one of the Merch groups. She didn’t feel like eating and picked at her food. Once Hard and Ben came back over to the table, she mentioned that perhaps she would go to another bar. Hard jumped in and said in an almost aggravated tone of voice. “Okay, which one you want to go to now? Not back to Miss Kitties and that bruiser you were talking to earlier?”
“No,” She said rubbing her head. “Just forget it okay?” Hard was trying to baby-sit her again. What was supposed to be a pleasant evening was turning out less than enjoyable. Eventually she excused herself from the table for the ladies room. On the way back to the table, her legs changed directions for the door. She just needed some time to herself. She had to figure out why Hard’s watch dogging her annoyed her so much.
The air outside was more than crisp. She ducked into the nearest bar and entered a game of poker. After the third hand, she just about jumped out of her skin when Hard stepped up behind her. She swore.
“Hey Captain, just wanted you to know I’m heading back to the ship.” This was Hard’s way to let her know he knew she had snuck out and he was still watching her back. She sighed in resignation. It wasn’t a bad thing he was watching out for her. Heaven’s knew they had enough different enemies. It was the necessity of it that gulled. While on planet it felt that she had no privacy and every move she did was watched. She thought wryly to herself. With Hard and Ben around, she was better protected than many heads of state.
Soon she folded and left the game. She was alone now. She wandered around the town for a while. She soon realized what she was looking for and highly doubted she would find a place on this small rock that had that kind of shop. It was a whim born of habit anyway. She found a small bench in a park and sat and considered the stars. The bitter wind soon drove her back to the ship.
The Doctor and Hard were near the entrance. Hard no doubt, was making sure she got home safely. She stalked to her cabin. If she had been a cat her tail would have been lashing madly about.
She grabbed her teddy bear and eventually calmed down enough to sleep.
The next day she was out and about. After dealing with Miss Kitty, she headed back to the ship. She was suddenly surrounded by intrigue as Schmee, Ben and Hard filled her in on what they had been up to and all the information they had gleaned. They wanted more. Schmee thought if the right information were given to the right people, it would make dealing with the Darrian’s less expensive when it came to upgrading the ship. Nadina knew what Schmee wanted her to do. It was becoming easier to read peoples minds, not that she liked it, but is was becoming almost second nature, as much a part of her as her hand. It was always risky. Most people had a great aversion to having their minds read. It was an invasion of privacy, and Nadina could appreciate that.
She almost didn’t want to become involved. Who was she to decide who was right or wrong? She didn’t care for the Sword Worlders, but were the Darrians any better?
It came down to the matter of taking care of herself, her ship and her crew. She had already decided that she would do what ever necessary to protect her crew and her ship. If they helped the Darrians, there was a possibility of getting higher tech than was generally allowed. In order to stay one jump ahead of the pirates, sections sigma, the Zhodoni and who ever else had a beef against them, they needed an element of surprise. They needed some sort of edge. If they could get better sensors, or weapons or even an engine, that might tip the balance in their favor. She leaned against the ship. She was a good ol’ girl. Nadina would take care of her.
She put her parka back on and went to where a few officers were eating lunch. There was a lieutenant who seemed unsure socially. If he was as inexperienced as she thought, she might be able to get some information from him. He was flattered by the attention she showed him and soon was telling her just about all she wanted to know. However the vital piece was missing. She needed to know where. In between talking about his home world and family, she began to dig into his mind. She once the right question was asked; a flood of information was hers to access. Most of it meant nothing; it was mostly diagrams of a space station. However one name came to mind. It was what she had been seeking.
She left his mind, feeling slightly dirty. It had been too easy. If he ever realized the breach of information had come from him, and if his friends and workmates died because of him, he would never let himself forget or forgive himself. It would scar him for the rest of his life. This person was basically good and honorable. Those were rare enough in the business dealing she had. He was mostly just wet behind the ears and wanting to make an impression with a nice looking woman. With a feeling of empathy, she let herself get more carried away than usual and finally had to stop his guy before things went further than she was willing to go. She had only one person that she loved, and she was not about to betray him just for information. Let the man tell his friends whatever he wished. She walked out of the backroom adjusting her clothes. She gave the mark a quick kiss on the cheek and made her way out of the building.
What was she turning into?
Schmee arranged a meeting with one of the Darrian scouts. She had to admire how well the scout used questions to dig out any vital information she could remember. The guy was good. If she had not already knew he was a spy for the Darrian home world, his concise questions would have made her extremely suspicious. He was trained and knew what he was doing. Through his questioning, she remembered things she didn’t know she remembered.
Only one small doubt remained in her mind. Perhaps the Mercs had planted his Lieutenant. Maybe they were feeding him false information knowing that he would spill his guts fully believing the information he was given. The information she dug out of peoples mind could be flawed in such a way. Case in point, her dealings with that slime, Zac Glar, he had really sold her on that computer chip which ended up being a pirate ambush. She had thought he was on the up and up. She chewed on her lower lip briefly. She had given the Darrians what information she knew, it was up to them to use it how they may. She just shuddered to think if all that information was incorrect. She would hate to think what the Darrians would do to them. They would have to deal with that if it came up.
The Darrians left shortly after they were done questioning her. In order not to seem sneaky or to raise suspicions, the trade with Miss Kitty was finished. In celebration of the deal and of their departure from Ator, they had a good meal together as a crew to celebrate. Once they wined and dined, they blasted off the planet, their engines glowing bright in the night sky.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Sunday, 06.25.06 @ 09:27am | #92
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.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Thursday, 06.22.06 @ 20:57pm | #91
Well, there are a half-dozen of his ships in port now. I'm sure one of them would be happy to take him back.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Saturday, 06.17.06 @ 01:21am | #90
Leaving suggestions in peoples minds is not a talent that has suggested itself to me. I'm more a reader and an empath.
We can hold onto our "passenger" as long as we need to. I don't want to leave him on Darrian as that is too close to Narsil.
In fact, I'm all for transferring him to an Arden ship and shipping him back to Stirling to deal with. What ever fate I could decide would be less than what HE would do to him.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Friday, 06.16.06 @ 13:59pm | #89
Maybe the Darrian homeworld would be a good place. If we left him on an Aslan border world it might give those interested in us a clue as to what direction we are headed. Can you leave suggestions in a subject's head?
Posted by Dr Caliban on Thursday, 06.15.06 @ 20:51pm | #88
Narsil was a busy, populated, polluted world. Nadina didn’t much care for it, or for the people who lived on it. These people didn’t like aliens, and treated women like third class citizens. This was not a place she would choose to make a home, or want to visit again. The air was tainted even through the oxygen breathers and left a metallic taste in her mouth. How could people live like this?
The Doctor and Schmee went to a local Internet bar to log into the world net. Schmee learned their contact Sam Murthos had gone missing. Schmee must be rubbing off on her for when Schmee informed her of this, she immediately thought that something fishy was going on. She didn’t think it wise to trust the second in command. He had only been on this stinking planet for a few months. Hard suspected the guy was a plant. Nadina was inclined to agree.
After some thought and council with her crew, she contacted the captain of the freighter Freya and arranged a friendly chat to feel out the climate regarding the second in command of Sterling Shipping, a man named Antoine Figg. It was much as she suspected, Captain Victor didn’t like Figg much and thought she should be careful. The Victor arranged a meeting in an up-class restaurant for later that day. She was warned that it wouldn’t be a good idea for her to wander around alone on this militaristic chauvinist world. Most women had escorts at all times.
Nadina wanted to roll her eyes. It was bad enough the crew seemed to want to follow her everywhere she went. Now she had strange ship’s captains telling her the same thing. She was starting to feel imprisoned in her own ship and did not like it at all. She became a free trader to be free and now it seemed like all her crew wanted to do was cosset her. She wanted to beat something up in frustration.
Maybe she should have Ben give her some lessons. She had to keep things strictly professional. While she was at it, she might as well have Ben show her how to fire a gun with more accuracy. It would go a long way in helping the crew think she was not completely helpless.
Doctor Caliban and Nadina met Figg at Roland’s Rest. Nadina, as a rule did not try to scan the emotions of her crewmates. She definitely did not try to read their minds. Perhaps it was a strange sort of ethics on her part, but she really didn’t want or need to know what was going on in the heads of her crewmembers. Trust had to begin somewhere, and if she tried to scan every Tom, Dick and Harry, she would soon go nuts.
Tonight though, Nadina couldn’t help pick up on the Doctors dislike of how she dressed. Usually Nadina would just blow it off. Such things had stopped bothering her a long time ago, but tonight, it was like a thorn in her mind. It didn’t help that she had tried to prepare herself to read minds this evening, sometimes it helped, and others it didn’t. Tonight she could feel the doctors distaste and it rubbed on her emotions. It didn’t help her much when the waiter refused to acknowledge her existence as they were seated at a nice table by a window.
She forced herself to calm down and slipped a mind shield into place. It was a relief to stop the bombardment of others emotions into her mind. She could usually control the influx of emotions and “turn” the gift of being empathic on and off as she chose, but there were sometimes when people felt so strongly, she had no escape. If others thought that feeling emotions or reading others minds was a gift, they had never laid awake at night while their first officer was having horrific nightmares which sent waves of pain and terror through the confined area of the ship. She didn’t know the specifics of his dreaming, and frankly she didn’t want to know, but it couldn’t help but taint her view of the Zhodoni in a more negative light.
Figg arrived at the restaurant in a Limo with a good-looking woman on his arm. It didn’t take much time on the Doctors part or Nadina’s that this woman didn’t have much of a brain for business. Her idle small talk only helped heighten the feeling that Figg was not on the up and up. Almost grudgingly, Nadina began to probe the man’s mind. She had to sift through the images of her being naked in his arms. It was a common image when dealing with men, only some were more graphic than others. With him it was repulsive and was almost as bad as that socialite, Count Demetric Damsane on Regina. She tried to repress a shiver of repugnance and began to direct him toward the information she was seeking.
After a few leading questions, she soon had a good idea where Sam Murthos was being held. It was almost like taking candy from a baby, except this candy made her feel sick to her stomach. She was slightly taken back when Figg asked her if Sterling had hired them to carry any cargo. She fed him a song and dance about how Sterling thought they might be able to smuggle some of the valuable high-end cargo off planet, which was currently moldering in the 6 or 7 ships unable to take off. Figg seemed to buy the story, and soon the evening began to wind down. She bade farewell to Figg with some vague plans of meeting up with him again.
She felt that she needed a long hot bath. Crawling around in most people’s heads was unsettling, especially when those people had such foreign values and beliefs. Figg made her feel dirty. She knew if she ever enjoyed reading peoples minds, she was in deep deep trouble.
They were soon back on the ship. Nadina roused her crew and explained the situation. It wasn’t long before weapons were hidden and plans were laid. Schmee did more data gathering, and the building they were looking for was targeted.
It was decided that Schmee would go through the checkpoint first, followed by the air raft then by Ben. Schmee thought he would distract the guards, and again be diverted by the sex appeal of the captain, they should be able to smuggle guns out of the spaceport.
Nadina watched as Schmee was escorted into a back room. She was not happy at what was happening to the little goblyn. She was not happy at Hard who was snickering at the goblyns misfortune of having to go through a full cavity search. Nadine thought it derogatory and distasteful. She would have to find someway to repay Schmee for his sacrifice.
That part of the plan worked. They were able to smuggle the guns out of the spaceport without detection. They headed toward the True Steel Brotherhood dojo where Nadina was sure Murthos was being held.
Hard went in to do some scouting of the area. He cleverly distracted the guards from the front door so the rest of the group could sneak in. Schmee seemed a little hesitant and twitchy, but with what he had just gone through, who could blame him?
It seemed that everyone was busy in the training room playing with swords. They moved down the hall. Schmee got distracted by a computer in an office, but said the thing was too antiquated to be of much help. He said Hard had signaled him and was headed down towards the basement.
They soon found the way down, a set of narrow stairs. They heard talking. The guards didn’t seem so pleased they were stuck with guard duty instead of being able to practice with swords. Hard once again did a wonderful job of distracting the guards as they entered the room. The pistols aimed at their heads soon convinced the guards, they would be wise to stand down.
Nadina could almost not believe that a plan went off without a hitch. She kept waiting for a bunch of thugs to rush them as Murthos was untied and rescued. Soon they made it back to the ship, still not trusting that Murthos was on the up and up, she tried to scan him as she had Figg. When Murthos eyes opened wider, she knew she had pushed a little to far. She was going to have to watch that. She was fairly certain that Sam now knew she was a reader; it was something she didn’t want published about. Especially when Section Sigma had a watch out on her ship.
A suggestion was laid forth about removing Figg from power. It was suggested Nadina call Figg and ask him for that date. She arranged a meeting on her ship, where her wonderful steward would whip them up a very private meal. Nadina just couldn’t keep her mind off of him and just had to see him tonight. Figg bought it and he was soon in her ship eating and drinking. The doc had mixed up a Mickey and soon he was passed out on the ship’s floor. They quickly placed him in cryo and had Sam Murthos up and running the business again.
Armor cars were arranged and soon the 150 million in gold and platinum was off loaded and safely in the bank. It was a relief to get that cargo off of her ship. They netted a total of 1.8 million dollars in payment. Not too shabby.
The doctor and Hard suggested the next stop should be Ator. It was the plan to go there before jumping to Darrian space. The Doc, like Nadina was looking for more training in the psychic skills and knew where they eventually wanted to land. Nadina was anxious to throw off Section Sigma and wanted to stay out of Imperium Space as much as possible. It seemed like a good plan. Nadina arranged for some foodstuffs, cold weather gear and some entertainment goods for sell at Ator. She really didn’t expect much as the population was next to nothing, but it made a good cover.
Over the next week while arranging some cargo, Nadina had Ben show her some basic pistol techniques. She was easily distracted when Ben showed her how to aim her pistol correctly and missed the target more than she hit it. She did much better when Ben wasn’t around. She joined in the hand-to-hand practice when both Hard and Ben were throwing each other about. She would never have that kind of skill, and her style of fighting was more suited to bar fights. Better to grab the leg off a broken chair or break a bottle than do all those fancy flipping things.
In passing she mentioned a curiosity in the museums and art galleries the Doc and Schmee frequently visited, and remarked to the Doc that perhaps she would like to go with them sometime. The Doctor informed her that should be need to dress properly, that the clothes that she was so fond of would not suffice at the opera. She mentioned that she had dressed very nice at Regina when going to that business party. Caliban said that was all very well and nice if you liked looking like a fluffy fu-fu cake. So Caliban might be high society, but Nadina did know fashion, and was agitated by the Doctors comments. Having won several beauty pageants, she knew how to dress in style and class. It was just the social niceties that she wasn’t familiar with. Fluffy Fu-Fu cake indeed! Stuffy ol’ stodgy coot!
Nadina was relieved when the clearance was given to finally take off. She was in foul mood having to deal with those Swordsmen and men in general and could not wait for the freedom of space.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Monday, 06.12.06 @ 12:54pm | #87
I wouldn't mind if it was a very small, rough, lawless backwater, with no hope of escape. As it was suggested to me, just dump him in a motel somewhere and let him come out of the micky naturally after we are long gone. That motel could be half a planet away from what passes as a star port on what ever world we stick him on as far as I'm concerned. (Think hick town in Nevada somewhere with heavy thugs)
Posted by Captain Rafik on Sunday, 06.11.06 @ 10:27am | #86
We can always dump him off on a backwater. After visiting the Darrian homeworld we will be passing through a lot of them on our way to the Aslan Conquests.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Saturday, 06.10.06 @ 20:10pm | #85
Does anyone have any suggestions as to what we can do with the individual in cryo?
Posted by Schmee on Friday, 06.9.06 @ 20:39pm | #84
I like Schmee's idea about the missles. Something like that would be handy in a senario where we are getting out tushes kick and need to flee. I figure sooner or later we will get our tushes kick. With our speed, it would be nice to disapear off radar.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Sunday, 06.4.06 @ 13:27pm | #83
The bar was situated on the outskirts of the seeder side of town. It wasn’t so bad as to attract the unwanted element, but just questionable enough that a secret meeting might go undetected.
Nadina moved into the bar secure in the knowledge that out there somewhere her Vargr 1st Officer was covering her back. Sometimes that old dog treated her as a wet behind the ears pup. Perhaps she was, at least to a seasoned veteran as himself.
Looking around the bar, she noticed Sterling. He looked about as obvious as an eagle in the mist of a flock of turkeys. If he was trying to be covert, he wasn’t doing a good job of it. So much for a secret meeting, then again, she thought ruefully to herself, wasn’t she playing at the same thing?
The meet was fairly short. He detailed the problem he was having at the Sword Worlds and how he wanted Nadina and her crew to take a very large sum of money to pay a debt and enable him to open the trade lines for his company. It was in essence a very large pay off.
Her wrist unit beeped. It was Hard asking if Sterling had come with a bodyguard. This was confirmed. Nadina could just see him taking out the personal bodyguard of a well to do merchant trader. It would not be pretty. Her confidence in Hard was strengthened. She would have never picked the bodyguard out, and she still didn’t even have a clue to where Hard was hiding. He was good.
She assured Sterling that the Lady Macbeth and her crew could be counted on to be discreet. Now all she had to do was figure out a way to keep Schmee from finding out they were going to carry 150 million in untraceable gold and platinum. She was unsure what Schmee would do, but didn’t have a hard time guessing. She could see the dollar signs in his eyes now. She was certain that he would find out, he had the uncanny habit of discovering anything he put his mind to. Hopefully it could be hidden long enough before he could do anything about it. Nadina knew the lure of so much liquid cash in one place would be more than the goblyn could stand.
Sterling stood up to leave with the warning that there would be no place she could hide if his money went missing. She didn’t particularly care for threats; it seemed she was getting quite a few of those lately. She was for the most part an honest trader, and would take care of the man’s money as if it was her own. It just annoyed her the man had felt the need to threaten her. It did not sit well and left a bad taste in her mouth.
Sterling sauntered out of the bar. His bodyguard detached himself from the bar and followed him out. Nadina sat musing for a few minutes, allowing herself for a moment or two to consider what she could do with 150 million credits. She decieded that she liked the freedom being on a far trader gave her, and regardless of the money, it was not a life style she was willing to give up. Hard contacted her again, “Captain, it seems Sterling was followed and they may have made us. Permission to follow.”
“Yeah, sure, I’ll make it back to the ship on my own.” Well, at least this would give her some time without a babysitter. She had things to do while in the seedy part of town.
A few credits lighter, she entered the ship to find out that they might have been made. Great, well there was nothing to do but to go on and go forward. They would go about their business as if the meeting had never taken place. Forewarned was forearmed.
The Doc did a good job of distracting Schmee at a local art museum. It wasn’t even intentional on the Doc’s part, therefore less likely to attract Schmee’s towards what she wanted to remain hidden. At least Nadina hoped so. She hated keeping secrets. They were like rabbits. They made everything a huge mess and had a habit of multiplying.
The cargo was discreetly loaded into the outside smuggling compartment. It was legit cargo, but SHE didn’t want to have to explain 150 million in gold to anyone who might search the ship. She neglected to file the paperwork on that particular cargo. She didn’t want a paper trail that Schmee would most likely follow. Even though it was legit, she was treating it like smuggled goods and keeping the records of this cargo strictly in her head, she didn’t even dare keep track of it in her “other” books.
She thought it suspicious when two Sword Worlders requested berth on their ship. It was just a little too convenient. Ben and Cain could handle them. She did not make it a secret they were heading toward that sector of space. She even befriended them and used her “skills” to see if they were on the up and up. She blithely fed them a diet of misinformation, as she confirmed for herself that they worked for a rival shipping company. Hard was for tossing them out of the airlock. Then Swordworlders began training with her Security Officer. She grew concerned. Ben was as honest a person she had ever known, sometimes, too honest and too truthful. It was those things that endeared the Security Officer to her. She had no doubt of his skill in combat, but it was the freedom of his words to others that caused her pause.
They had cleared a small space in the cargo hold as a practice ring. As long as none of the merchandise got damaged, she didn’t mind. Many times as they were practicing hand to hand combat Nadina perched at a good vantage point and watched. She liked to think it was to keep an eye on things, but she knew why she was there and would not kid herself. Perhaps she should get Ben to give her some private lessons. After some thought she decided that might not be such a good idea.
They headed toward Frenzie. She had to get the monstrosity of Kree artwork sent off. She was happy to see it go. It was starting to leave a strange odor. They would have to get the oxygen filters on the lady Macbeth scrubbed to get the weird taint out of the air supply. While planetside she also was going to get that mailbox set up. She didn’t know when she would check it in the future, but at least it was there. She had no idea if the letters she had sent would have an effect. Then, almost in answer to the letters, Hard told her Section Sigma or the Imperium Psi cops had a watch out on her ship. The crew speculated as to why. Deep in her heart, Nadina was afraid that she knew why. Did she want to tell the crew? It looked like she might not have a choice. They already knew most of it. What she knew, she didn’t really know. It was information from a vision or a psychic impression. Most would not count that as valid intel.
She decided to tell the crew what she felt she knew. She told the crew she felt her father had once worked for an agency, perhaps Section Sigma itself. At this point, she felt that her parents had protected her from them while she was growing up. She also felt that the Zhodoni was also looking for her. Yes, she did have some ability, she could feel others emotions, and sometimes understand what others were thinking. It was pretty minor at best. She honestly didn’t think that her abilities were so unusual as to have two governments looking for her, and that puzzled her greatly. She didn’t feel that she was important enough to create such a hunt or a search. She also didn’t feel the Doctors abilities would create such a stir either. It was her plan to go to a place where she could seek out more training. If she was going to have these people hunting her and her ship, she wanted a way to protect her crew and herself from them.
What she needed was some options on how to throw the Imperium and the Zhodoni off of their trail in order to make it to a planet for more training. Even then, she was unsure how far she could even trust those people who said they could train her, not that she was going to tell the crew THAT. Perhaps she should try and contact Dev. He had gone there. He would know, unless they had turned him.
Generally it was business as usual. She didn’t want the ship to seem to do something out of the ordinary. A few jumps and landfalls later, they were soon ready to jump into Sword World space. She still didn’t trust the two passengers, and the crew found away to keep them locked in their cabin during the jump.
Nadina was not surprised when there was a pirate at the jump point. She tried to reason with them. They insisted they come aboard. They knew what she was carrying, and aimed to have it. Schmee assessed her with his eyes. If the Goblyn hadn’t realized by now that she had hidden something from him, he did now. Hard was going nuts. Nadina realized if she even thought of allowing these pirates aboard, she would have nothing short of mutiny on hand. She didn’t have to be psychic to figure that out.
She told them she had no idea what they were talking about, and that she would NOT allow them on board. She had no guarantee that if they came on board that they wouldn’t steal her ship. They had battled pirates before, and they were just another pirate.
The Captain of the ship smirked and said they were much tougher than the pathetic ship the Gundarin and the idiot Captain Freiling. So, they had done there homework and knew who they were. Not a real pleasant thought. There was no way she was going to allow them on HER ship.
With heart in her throat, the combat began. She watched Hard closely. He was a marvel at dodging incoming fire. Perhaps she could learn a few pointers from him. Schmee was navigating the ship in a manner that somewhat alarmed her. They were heading toward the pirates at top speed? Ben and Cain had lasers lance toward the pirates and the first few shots had found entry into the other ships weak spots. It was obvious that this pirate crew was better trained than the others they had met in battle; however, the pirates still had underestimated her crew. What the Lady Macbeth lacked in speed and firepower was more than made up by the skill and experience. The pirate ship soon bugged out.
A report was filed. Nadina was sure that the official report would become “lost”. The company that sponsored this attempt surely had the money and the clout to obscure and spin the information any way they wanted.
Hard unceremoniously dumped the two Swordworlders on the next planet they jumped to. It was obvious they had tried to break out of their room during battle. Nadina shuddered to think how that would have caused all kinds of nasty things to happen.
The Lady Macbeth and crew were soon on the way to Narsil, the planet where they had to make the drop. Schmee was suddenly very helpful. He was suggesting many ways and ideas on how to help the ship evade Section Sigma. Maybe it was that strong sense of self preservation kicking in, or maybe it was another agenda. However, his ideas were valid. She really liked how he thought. How much could they do in evading? Could the transponder be changed on the ship and the named changed and papers forged? Would she really consider selling the Lady Macbeth and upgrading to a bigger ship? She really needed the input of the crew. The final decision was hers.
As they approached the planet, a PDB requested to board the ship. They were bigger, faster, and deadlier. The Lady Macbeth would not last one nano second against a ship like that. Nadina knew all of her books were in order, and knew, barring them finding the hidden compartment on the outside of the ship or her own hidden stash, that they would not find much of interest. The other ship scanned outside the ship. Nadina breathed a sigh of relief when the hidden compartment holding all 150 million credits worth of precious metals was not detected.
The ship was boarded. Nadina felt violated as the ship was gone over with a fine tooth comb. This was not something she wanted to do again for a very long time.
They found the hidden compartment on the bridge. It had weapons cashed inside. Hard explained it was reserves just incase the ship was boarded by pirates. They missed the one in her quarters. She wasn’t sure how she could explain the money she had stashed in there. It was much like the hidden cargo; liquid cash, gems, gold, precious metals for emergencies when she couldn’t get to her credits.
They located the large concealed compartment in the cargo bay. She was glad for once it was empty. She told them she had discovered it after aquiring the ship and sometimes used the area as extra storage. She made a mental note to have that compartment hidden better in the future.
She told them to check engineering at their own risk. She didn’t even go in there. It rather got there attention when Hard said just about the same thing, so off they went. The big robot was now fully operational. It still looked pretty intimidating even with a large wrench instead of a gun. The people poked around here and there while Bart began to explain things in engineer-eeze. Her eyes slightly glazed over at some lengthy techno jargon. She idly pushed a button or two until Hard glared at her. She just wanted to see what they did. Nothing blew up or fell off, so no damage done.
The inspection done and passed, she escorted the men back to their shuttle. Soon they would skim for fuel and land on the planet. She could only wonder what awaited them there. She was certain whatever it was, wasn’t going to be easy. Maybe she should take Schmee’s advice and research the possibility of someone on this world who could help train her. They weren’t in the Imperium anymore and from time to time in the past the Swordworlds had sided with the Zhodoni. They may not have the same aversion to psi powers as others. She would have to do some discreet checking. It would sure save a lot of time and effort. Then again, there is nothing quite like waving a big red flag over your head, which might happen if her quires came to the unwanted attention of someone planetside.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Saturday, 06.3.06 @ 20:29pm | #82
I believe that Hard informed the Captain and the rest of the crew.
As far as the rest of the galaxy knowing, only personnel at Imperial Navy installations that have received the order would know.
Posted by GM on Thursday, 06.1.06 @ 11:12am | #81
I would like to propose some research/developement on the following types of missles.
1) A Maneuver Drive Feedback missle (MDF missle). It would require a hit to the enemies engines (called shot to engines at appropriate minus). It would need to be able to knock out the enemies maneuver drive for between 30 and 60 min to be effective.
2) An EMP missle. It would "blind" all ships in a large area. All ships in area would have to move without sensors for an hour or two and then could look for ships once again. It might be a good way to get away if were out numbered.
Posted by Schmee on Wednesday, 05.31.06 @ 17:37pm | #80
Is it common knowledge that Section Sigma is keeping tabs on the ship?
Posted by Schmee on Wednesday, 05.31.06 @ 17:24pm | #79
Test - I screwed some stuff up on the site and want to make sure everything is working.
Posted by Bob on Monday, 05.8.06 @ 13:56pm | #78
Found another gizmo for our GM to consider.....
http://www.freelancetraveller.com/features/shipyard/densefuel.html
Posted by Dr Caliban on Sunday, 04.30.06 @ 02:48am | #77
What the heck were they thinking of doing? Nadina couldn’t quite believe that they were actually going to steal back a stolen piece of art work. She really must be crazy. Were they becoming more like pirates? Maybe privateers would be a better word for it. She listened again as Schmee and Hard went over the plan one more time. She hoped that there would be no killing. There was no reason to kill anyone, maybe except the leader, He had arranged for the artwork to be stolen in the first place and therefore was not an innocent. The thought still chilled her blood. She had never actually personally killed someone before, and the thought left her feeling a little queasy.
She hoped they could sneak in and sneak out, take want they wanted. That is what the plan called for. However, she knew that once things started to happen, the best laid plans were, well, fluid and usually never came off they way the were planned. It left her uneasy. She had planned to be on the air raft, if she was going to risk her crew, she should be with them. However, somehow the plan had her on the ATV launching smoke grenades. Hard obviously did not think she could handle herself in combat or in stealth operations, and somehow had relegated her to the ATV. She wasn’t quite sure how THAT had happened. Still, her crew was doing what they were paid for. The crew must think she was a total idiot. Even Ben carefully pointed out which button she needed to push to launch the grenades. If Ben wasn’t careful, he just might make her angry, which for him would be tough to do.
Tense and nervous they began the diversion. Nadine was somewhat disappointed they only drew off two guards. Well it was time to make some noise and see if they could draw more people out. It didn’t quite work out as planned. Heck, nothing turned out as planned. It seemed that everything had completely flown out the window at the speed of light. They had run into the dreaded SNAFU, and here she was, stuck in the bloody ATV, unable to exit while Hard, Schmee and the Doctor were taking hostile fire. Ben decided to take the ATV into the camp. It was the place she wanted to be, she was going to take the wheel of the monster vehicle. It couldn’t be too hard to drive in a straight line right? Bart jumped in the seat instead and Ben manned the turret. She wanted to scream in frustration. Those were her people out there! If they died it was her responsibility.
With Ben in the turret, the front gate was soon a pile of rubble; Bart was driving like a total manic. Nadina made a mental note to never let Bart drive again; she shuddered when he ran into his first live target. The ATV swerved and threw her against Ben; she hastily pulled herself off of him and quickly followed him out the back hatch. Still rattled by being tossed around in the back of the ATV she missed stepped and tumbled ungracefully onto her butt, not to worried about impressions, either of her co-workers or that of the ground, she quickly picked herself up and dashed around the corner, to find herself face to face with Brother Mora. His eyes were glowing and suddenly, she knew her mind was being invaded but didn’t care. For some strange reason she seemed to think it was silly that she served aliens. She shook her head. She didn’t serve anybody. The crew served her! She threw off the mind control just in time to see Hard place his pistol to the Brothers head. It was all in slow motion as the trigger was pulled and brains and blood gushed everywhere. She quickly ran into the storage shed and tried not to lose all of her last meal. The carnage was very real. There were wounded, dead and dieing everywhere. The camp looked like it was in a war zone. Well, technically, it had been. The whole thing left her highly nauseated. She didn’t want any authorities linking this whole mess back to her or the Lady Macbeth. They began to make the whole thing look like a Varger Raid.
They took what they came for and a few other items and eventually met back at the ship. The drive home had been quiet and long. Ben was still upset at Hard for killing the leader and he was not in the same even-tempered mood that she usually associated with her security officer. Bart was still going on and on about how he drove the ATV and how many people he had actually ran over. She shivered, sighed and looked out the window.
She realized that the leader had used psychic mind control on her. She was thinking that perhaps this new religion was a front for Zhodoni to infiltrate other planets in the guise of religion. He had experimental Zhodoni drugs. She was sure they wouldn’t hand those out to just anybody. Those poor men were so mind controlled, that she wondered if they had even joined of their own free will. She shivered. Was this the kind of training that she wanted to pursue? The thought left her feeling vaguely dirty. However, if she had almost fallen victim to that priest, how easily would she fall to someone like her brother who may or not have been raised to exploit this full potential.
She started to despise Zhodoni. They sought to control people, taking away everyone’s personal freedom. That was sick and wrong, and against everything she deeply believed. What was she willing to become to stop others like her from trying to control and use her against other people? How low would she go? Would she use any abilities to actually help people? Only time could tell. She really needed to get to that planet. But first she had to figure out a lucrative way to get there, and that meant trading and doing what she did best.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Friday, 04.28.06 @ 19:57pm | #76
I can teach her all the "girl stuff" and any business stuff that might be helpful as the head of a royal house. She should at least recognize when someone is trying to hoodwink her in the business world.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Saturday, 04.22.06 @ 14:30pm | #75
I can also teach life sciences. We could use another medic. Mr Cain also has a wide range of experience to draw upon for further lessons.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Friday, 04.21.06 @ 21:22pm | #74
I think we should put in the paperwork to get mail in the Arden Federation. Also, we can see about gathering intelligence for them. The Captain can do economic forcasts and our sensor logs can record how much trafic is going in and out of systems.
Also, we need to develop a learning schedule for the kid. I can handle math, computers, and physics. I would suggest the Doc handle teaching her what she needs to know to get by in noble society. And Ben can teach her armed and unarmed combat. Anyone else have some suggestions on education.
Posted by Schmee on Thursday, 04.20.06 @ 20:44pm | #73
Zhodani thought police?
http://theminiaturespage.com/news/113634/
Posted by Dr Caliban on Thursday, 04.20.06 @ 03:44am | #72
We could do it with x-boat mail.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Thursday, 04.20.06 @ 03:34am | #71
Doctor,
I suppose it is wisdom to move the money as you suggested. However, if we were to do that, It should have been done back on Regina. I guess if you look at it in a certain way. It is actually free money. I say, let it ride for now. If Schmee is correct it will take up to two years for the stock in the other company to fail, and for use to see any profit. If and when we ever make it back to Regina, we can think about it again.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Monday, 04.17.06 @ 21:51pm | #70
She looked in shock as the information of her parents deaths scrolled innocently across the screen. She closed her eyes a moment. She really hadn’t wanted to believe her dream. She had tried to put if off as a figment of her imagination and strong drink. She ought to have known better, she HAD known. She just didn’t want to accept in her heart what she knew was true. It was the news that she was waiting for, but dreading to hear.
She stood up from the computer screen on the bridge, not caring to clear the screen, allowing the computer to scan other news. She avoided the glances of Hard and Schmee as she calmly walked toward her cabin.
She shut the door, moved woodenly to her bed, gathered up her stuffed bear and sat down, her mind lost in a haze of questions and emotions.
Her parting with her father had not been the best. She had always thought to make up with him someday. He hadn’t wanted her to become a far trader captain. That had lead to a heated argument and her quick departure from Ilelish.
If her dream about her parents were correct. They sure as shootin didn’t die in no fire. It opened a whole beehive of nasty questions. At least it did to her mind. She gazed down at the teddy bear that she held, letting her mind touch on subjects where it would. She began to consider the dream she had.
Was one or both of her parents Zhodani? She had just thought she was one of those unlucky people born with psychic abilities. Then again, she had always heard that psychics bred true. If her parents were Zhodani, what were they doing in the heart of Imperium space? Could her father have been training Imperium thought police? If that was the case, why hadn’t she been inducted into that branch of the service? Her father had known of her abilities. When she learned what she could do, he had warned and cautioned her very severely on their use. He had been very strict, which was probably one of the reasons she had rebelled. She really hadn’t begun to use her gifts until she was out on her own.
She had never suspected that her father had any abilities. If he was psychic, he had hidden it very well. She would have never guessed he had a lick of ability. However the one time she tried to read his mind, she had been put down so hard that she had never even considered doing it again. She knew her mother was empathic, which is where she had always thought she had gotten her abilities. Now she was not so certain.
So, she had a brother who was searching for and found her parents. Why had they never told her of him? Who was he? Why had he been kept hidden from her? Was he an agent for the Zhodani? That was the impression she got from the dream.
Her brother did not kill their parents, but again she had gotten the impression that he would have wanted to, but getting information from them and making them an example seemed to be more important. So, who had killed her parents? It must have been the agency her father had worked for. Why kill them, why not rescue them instead?
Who would be powerful enough to cover the deaths up? Even if a body was burned, it would still be possible to find the bullet holes. Somebody powerful in the Imperium or at least the local police had to have a hand in that story to the media.
She came to a decision. She carefully placed her bear back on her bed and headed back to the bridge. Asking Hard for some star charts she did some thinking. She wanted a place that was on the main trade route, away from where they normally berthed. Firenz (check spelling) looked to be a good place. She could set up a mail box there. If her brother was trying to track her and if he was up to no good (which she really thought he was) she didn’t really want to leave a calling card on where she could really be found. Even if she was psychic, she had no love of the Zhodani Empire. They seemed intent in destroying the freedom that she so enjoyed. She had seen first hand some of the atrocities they had committed. She would never willing have anything to do with a society like that. She did not think that any meeting between her and her brother would go well.
She had two letters to write, one to 1st Sgt Jeff Franklin the officer in charge of the investigation and one to Dr. Greggor McMillin her father’s best friend and associate at the “clinic” where he father had worked. Being so far away from home there was little that she could do, however, she wanted to rattle the beehive a bit and see what happened.
Meanwhile, she was going to check out the planet the priest had told them about. She was not about to be used as a pawn in some on going governmental game, and that meant exploring any further abilities to protect herself.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Sunday, 04.16.06 @ 14:35pm | #69
Found this for expanding the ship's cargo capacity:
http://www.freelancetraveller.com/features/shipyard/deckcargo.html
Posted by Dr Caliban on Saturday, 04.15.06 @ 23:40pm | #68
I was thinking about the reinvestments of the software profits. We really should diversify to protect the money. Perhaps 100k in 8 different sectors instead of all in one?
Posted by Dr Caliban on Friday, 04.14.06 @ 21:21pm | #67
And here I always thought Regina was a little boring.....
Posted by Dr Caliban on Monday, 04.10.06 @ 17:09pm | #66
Actually I suspect Grandfather is psionic himself.
I like the Captain's plan of using her talents to feel out Damsane. I really hadn't intended to try to blackmail him.
It would be eaiser for Grandfather to make a clandestine meeting on Regina rather than space. The family doesn't travel all that much. I had only been in orbit twice before I signed on.
I would send a much more vague message. He'll know who it came from.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Friday, 04.7.06 @ 23:56pm | #65
I agree on the point that most humans hate anything to do with psionics, even if it is something as useful and beneficial as the doctors healing abilities. As you all know, I have a few myself and do not want any Psi cops sniffing around. I don’t really want to be on the run because of my “talents”.
I don’t want this crew to come under scrutiny. We are a mixed bag. I like it that way. However, I’m sure that certain authorities would take more than a passing interest. I really don’t want it published what ship and what crew rescued the girl on all the news reports from here to Timbuktu. I think I would like to stay out of the lime light at this point in my life, as I think the doctor and Schmee would agree.
I can’t say that I am an actress, but I would most likely be the one to contact the doctor’s grandfather. Being empathic, I can gauge to some extent what he would be feeling about his grandson and about Holly. As Hard likes to say, I am the most expendable of the crew even if I am the captain. Being a business person, at least gives me some skills in dealing with people that others may not have. I am NOT an actress; however I have won several beauty contests, so I generally know what not to do in social situations, so perhaps that will count as something.
I think a lot of this may decide on what the Grandfather says. If the situation is negative, I say we sell what is in our holds, pick up new cargo and head on our merry way with a new crew member. I don’t quite like the living conditions of sharing my cabin with a young girl, but she sure as shootin’ ain’t sharing quarters with any of you yahoos.
But, if the situation is favorable, perhaps the Grandfather could arrange a meeting with Demetric Damsane. Perhaps we could use that small load of Hedlar wood and set the meeting up as a business meeting. I could see if this gent would welcome his niece, or if he is a low bellied snake. I could feel out the situation, using those certain skills. If I don’t like the situation and how it feels, I’ll sell him the wood (or other commodity) and leave no one the wiser. But if he turns out to be a decent guy then we can deal.
Last thing I would want this guy to do would be to accuse us as kidnappers. I’m sorry Dr Caliban, but your kind of folk play a mean nasty game of which I no nothing about, or particularly care to learn. I reckon certain folk won’t give up money unless they have to, and can think of double crossing ways on trying to keep it.
I think Schmee was correct in wanting to gather information. Just like in business, the more you know, usually the better the deal. We will just have to watch out for any triggers looking for certain information might cause, and I want as few links back to the ship as possible. We already have a psycho pirate after us. We don’t want someone who has power and money after our butts. (And no Schmee, there is no one that I am aware of on Regina who wants to kill or arrest me)
Does anyone else have any other input? I find that we can usually come up with good plans when we all work together.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Friday, 04.7.06 @ 22:35pm | #64
Well, the way I would prefer it to go... We would have gotten a message to your grand father via a trader headed into system from the last starport. We would try to arrange a meeting in space, where we have some chance of running if it goes bad.
Let's look at the big picture.
1) We don't know how your grand father is going to take this news. There are many humans with an extreame dislike of psionics.
2) We don't know what your grand father is going to think of this 12 year old girl. We cannot assume it will be positive, though you can give the best estimate.
3) The Lady MacBeth is crewed by misfits, myself included. It has worked well up to now because we all seem to fit in, but the law will probably find us intrigeing to say the least.
4) We have a good deal of conflict here, so there is, theoreticly, opprotunity. (Old goblyn proverb) We just have to thread the needle so to speak.
5) There are people who want to kill me on Regina. There seem to be a lot of people who want to kill the doctor on Regina. Anyone else?
6) The ship set down on Regina a month or 2 ago without incident. This implies that my enemies don't know I'm a member of this crew and the psi cops don't have a lead on the doctor.
7) It is my understanding that the psi cops use psionics themselves, so our adversary's capabilities are an unknown.
OK, my initial thoughts:
The above statments generally outline what we're up against. Our first move should be to gather as much information as possible. Once we get within communication range we can start searching news data bases. I am interested in knowing the where abouts of my enemies. I am interested in knowing what the papers said about the doctors disappearance, what statements were made by his family. Are there wanted posters for the doctor? An all points bulletin? Or, perhaps there is just silence, the psi cops sniffing around, but not drawing attention to the investigation. I would also be interested in knowing how they tracked you down the first time. Any additional information on the kid would be helpful.
I am opposed to the doctor meeting his grand father. If his grand father thinks ill of his talants it leads everyone right back to the ship. I would instead suggest someone else meet or get a message to his grand father and test the waters. The message would be something like this: Your grand son wants to let you know he is alive and ok. He understands that he cannot return to the family with this dark cloud over his head, but would be comforted by the knowledge that you have not personally forsaken him. If this is a message then it needs to be encrypted or coded and we need to break any link to the ship. If we deliver the message in person that individual needs to appear as something other than a member of a ships crew.
We have already discussed the kid to some extent. A human child is not a big concern to me, but I recognize this is not the case with the rest of the crew. Still I suggest we not mention the child just yet. Let's see where you stand with your grand father first.
Posted by Schmee on Friday, 04.7.06 @ 21:10pm | #63
I'm not going to actually do anything yet, just meet with Grandfather and see what he thinks and to get the lay of the land.
A meeting with short notice for him would also give any possible opponents little time to prepare. I think the chances for actually having opponents yet on this are pretty small, however, if I've learned anything from you it's to err on the side of caution. We've known we were returning to Regina since leaving Keanu, so we've had several weeks to discuss strategy. I just waited until we were close to give you my whole story.
We're in this as a crew so anyone is welcome to chime in. I'm not good at logistic and stategic planning. This time we might have some money and power behind us, depending on what Grandfather has to say.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Friday, 04.7.06 @ 20:21pm | #62
I suppose many of us have things they hide. I knew you were hiding something. I would suggest that you not go into acting any time soon. I am not pleased that you are a sought over person on Regina for being psionically gifted. That could attract attention, towards this ship, (and myself) which I don’t particular care for. Your timing is well…let’s say it stinks.
I would imagine you don’t want to attract any attention to yourself. The news of TWO lost heirs of two rich houses would be a bit much.
I want you all to give me some suggestions on how to handle this situation. I know Schmee won’t want to get off the ship at Regina. I’m not sure if the Doc will want to either.
So if you all have any ideas I’d like to hear them
Posted by Captain Rafik on Friday, 04.7.06 @ 17:32pm | #61
Well Doc, you didn't give us much time to research or develop a plan.
Posted by Schmee on Thursday, 04.6.06 @ 15:08pm | #60
The day before we exit jumpspace I will get the crew together and tell them this:
I know you all know I've got something to hide. I didn't want to needlessly endanger anyone. I appreciate the chance you've taken with me and indulging me my badly-acted charade. With the discovery of a possible heir to an important house on and our return to Regina I feel it's only fair to reveal myself to my shipmates.....
"My real name is Tyrell Anaan Aldeon, III. Yes, those Aldeons; one of the oldest Houses on Regina. We trace our lineage back to Ulysses Aldeon, Captain of the Dawn Treader, first colony ship to touch down on Regina. We have had our fingers into everything profitable on Regina ever since. We may not be the largest or richest House on Regina, but we are one of the most influential.
I grew up accustomed to wealth and privilege and all the advantages they bring. I had the best of everything and wanted for nothing. My whole life was planned to prepare me to take my place in the family’s business empire with my brothers. Even my future marriage had been carefully arraigned to increase the family’s power and prestige. As I became a teen, I slowly began to resent the way my path had been set. I began to rebel against it; wild parties, dangerous stunts, and scrapes with the law. The only thing I really cared about was my fencing lessons. It was the only thing at which I felt I was any good.
Finally, after smashing my expensive new flitter into a police g-carrier, I landed in jail. To my astonishment, no one came to bail me out and take me home. After three days languishing in a cell I got another shock; my grandfather came to see me. Tyrell Anaan Aldeon I was a great barrel-chested bear of a man. I didn’t know him very well and as a child had always been a little afraid of him. I think I still was.
In his gravelly voice he gave me a choice: I could either leave the family or attend the medical school at Mount Regina and become a doctor. I was stunned. Grandfather had a well-earned reputation for being hard-nosed. When I asked why, he said he had come to the conclusion that I didn’t belong in business and that the family would benefit from a doctor in the House (I remember him chuckling at this. I don't know why, but Grandfather always did have a quirky sense of humor). Plus, he added with a wolfish grin, it would really piss off Tad Eslinger when he found out his daughter wouldn’t be marrying into Aldeon House.
I could hardly believe my ears. Grandfather had given me my freedom. All I had to do was slide through school. I stood up, shook his hand and accepted his offer. As we walked out of the local lock-up he gestured me to a waiting car. He told me the driver would take me to school.
Now.
Although the term was already a week underway and I hadn’t even applied, school officials were ready and waiting with my class schedule, books, and cafeteria credit slip.
After a week I was caught up. After a month I was interested. After three months I was obsessed. How had Grandfather known this is what I wanted all along? My world narrowed to my coursework. I rarely communicated with the family, just visiting briefly on holidays. Grandfather always made a point of asking how I was doing. Although I suspected he already knew the answers, I always spoke at length about what I had been learning that semester.
I finished a six year program in five and graduated in the top first percentile of my class. At my graduation, Grandfather presented me with his rapier. He said he was very proud of me and that I had earned it. It had been commissioned by his grandfather from the Macevicius Bladeworks and was one of the family’s heirlooms. My brothers were scandalized, although none of them would have dared say a word to Grandfather. Besides, none of them were my equal with a blade.
My high marks allowed me to land an internship with the best hospital on Regina. I honed my surgery skills and began to develop a reputation as a gifted diagnostician. Sometimes I just knew how my patients felt and what to do for them.
I began to feel that I could do more elsewhere, away from the wealthy patients I had been treating. I began to moonlight in small clinics in the slums around the city. It was during one of these sessions that it happened.
A young boy had been brought in suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. I knew I couldn’t save him, but had to try. The child flatlined during the operation. We tried everything. Finally, out of frustration I tried old-fashioned hands-on CPR. The child wasn’t responding and it made me angry. I felt something break loose inside my head and my hands felt like they were on fire where they touched the boy’s chest. My vision blurred and I felt waves of weakness and nausea roll through me. I though I was having a stroke. My nurse quickly moved to steady me and pointed at the EKG. The boy’s heart was beating; weakly, but steadily. I smiled wanly at her and mumbled something about the old ways sometimes being the best. I staggered off to an unoccupied office to rest and think.
I began to research what had happened to me. Eventually I came to the conclusion that I was psionically gifted. This could be revealed to no one. If this got out I could be arrested. I would certainly lose my position and the family would be scandalized.
Despite the risk, this was a gift that had to be used. After a long period of trial and error, I learned to call the healing at will and lessen the effect of the weakness and nausea. Eventually the string of quick-healing patients and information searches on the worldnet began to attract the wrong sort of attention. Knowing the authorities would eventually come, I had prepared my disappearance with escape routes, false papers and extra cash.
They were waiting for me at work. I had decided to walk to the hospital after my fencing match. As I approached I noticed several police cars near the entrances and several stunner-armed officers obviously guarding the main entrance. I turned around, walked away and didn’t look back. I picked up a cache of clothes and money I had hidden at one of the free clinics where I’d volunteered and disappeared into the slums.
The papers said I’d been kidnapped and there was a city-wide manhunt. I spent most of that time in the sewers getting to know my fellow dregs and learning how to survive. Once the initial furor over the disappearance of an Aldeon heir had cooled somewhat, I began to look for ways off-world. The Lady Macbeth provided the perfect opportunity."
House Aldeon's speciality is information. This should serve well in our particular situation. I don't know what the current climate concerning psionics on Regina is now, but it was hostile when I left. I will be contacting Grandfather to arrange a meeting as soon as we emerge from jumpspace. I will give him the information I have on Holisara; DNA, vids and the rest of the anecdotal information she provided and start from there.
While it doesn't happen as much today, the Great Houses of Regina can rival the Machiavellian dance of Old Earth's Italy. House Damsane is no exception.
Whatever the next couple of weeks bring, it promises to be.....interesting.
I suggest fueling the ship as soon as we land.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Thursday, 04.6.06 @ 05:37am | #59
So, would you say in the Goblyn society, you throw the young into life and let them sink or swim?
Maybe in some humans the adults are just trying to protect what they once had?
Any more philosophy Schmee?
Posted by Captain Rafik on Tuesday, 04.4.06 @ 17:38pm | #58
Ahh, the over protection of the young. I do remember something about that in human traits class. Although I certainly defer to your decision as Captain, I also feel I should point out the condition she was living in prior to finding her. I would hardly call improving her life considerably "exploitation."
Posted by Schmee on Saturday, 04.1.06 @ 05:55am | #57
“That sounds a lot like child exploitation, Schmee.” I may have let a lot of values slide since becoming a spacer. I will not exploit a child. If her Uncle were a total sleeze-ball, I would keep her part of the crew for her own safety. Otherwise, it ain’t gonna happen…profit or no profit. You are a real schemer Schmee.”
Posted by Captain Rafik on Thursday, 03.30.06 @ 17:30pm | #56
I am thinking I would prefer to gather intelligence of the Fed of Arden over the Imperium. Anyone else have a preferance?
Also, we could keep the kid on board for 6 years. She knows her way around a space ship; it would be cheap labor. And best of all the reward would come strait from her so it would be many times bigger!
Posted by Schmee on Thursday, 03.30.06 @ 06:49am | #55
You are at least a week behind, but the Gundarin was severely mauled in your encounter. Its going to take time to repair.
Posted by GM on Saturday, 03.25.06 @ 00:45am | #54
Come on folks, how about some ideas about what we're going to do concerning the Gundarin. I'm guessing we are around a week behind at this point.
Posted by Schmee on Sunday, 03.19.06 @ 20:40pm | #53
I like how Schmee thinks. I was thinking the same thing...
Posted by Captain Rafik on Friday, 03.17.06 @ 09:18am | #52
I think the Captain should smooze up to the local commander of the scout base. We have given them the sensor logs, with the right kind of pressure maybe we can have Captain Freiling and his ship the Gundarin offically declared pirates.
Next we need to come up with a plan to deal with the Gundarin
Posted by Schmee on Thursday, 03.16.06 @ 19:22pm | #51
Another excellent write up Susan!
Posted by GM on Thursday, 03.16.06 @ 10:46am | #50
Captains Log
She gazed thoughtfully out the window of her cabin. She regarded the space wreck in front of her. This was just like taking candy from a baby. If this turned out even half as profitable as she thought. She would really have to think about giving Zac Glar some sort of finder’s fee.
There wasn’t much left to do but to send Ben, Schmee and Bart over to see what was salvageable. She chewed her bottom lip. Going over there was going to be dangerous. Did she want to risk three crewmembers? The thought frightened her. Maybe she could prevent at least one of them from getting hurt…but which one? She shook her head impatiently and tried to shrug the idea off. They were doing what she paid them for. There was always an element of risk.
Turning away from the window, she collected her thoughts and walked out into the hallway. Schmee was walking up the passage toward her. He had a pensive look on his face. The Goblyn wasn’t much to look at. Darn near hideous, but after serving with him, she knew more than to judge him on looks alone. He was smart, smarter than she was. He had a certain way of thinking that she had to admit that she liked. He was a little more conservative and distrustful…well okay…a lot more conservative and distrustful than she was. He was the voice of caution and he tended to balance the impulsiveness that she sometimes displayed.
He walked beside her and began to speak. “Captain, I think this situation is too easy. Have you ever heard of a mouse trap?”
She walked into the common room where the other crewmembers were gathered. “A Mousetrap? What do you mean?” Hard looked up at the pair as they entered the room, his keen ears picking up on the conversation.
“I’m saying that this is a perfect setup. There could be ships out there just waiting to jump us once we split up our crew. I wouldn’t be surprised if that derelict was booby trapped.”
“Captain,” Hard cut in, “Schmee may be correct. I think we should scan the area around us before we send anyone out there.”
Nadina shook her head. She was certain that everything was fine. She had read Zac when he was talking about the crystal. She had not picked up any bad feelings from him regarding this wreck. She thought that they were both being paranoid. She was still not use to looking into other people’s thoughts.
It was a talent that she had tried to ignore while growing up. If she actually had an evil psychic brother out there, it looked like she would have to learn more if she was going to protect herself. She still didn’t even know if that dream was a dream. If her home planet wasn’t so far away she could go check. She was going to have to find out someway.
“Don’t you agree Captain?” Hard looked at her questioningly.
“Huh? What? Oh yeah…go head and do some passive scans.” She blushed slightly, embarrassed to have let her mind wander. After a moment of thought, she figured that it might not be a bad idea to run some scans after all, and it would keep Schmee and Hard happy.
She was not happy when some time later, Hard reported he had discovered energy readings where there should not be any. Schmee had been right after all. How could she have been so wrong about the situation?
Some discussion rose up with the crew. Most thought it would be a good idea if an explosion was set off. Schmee was certain that the drifting ship had to be booby trapped, and an explosion would signal the ships (there had to be a least two), to spring their trap.
Ben volunteered the use a space suit and set up an explosive charge. She nixed that idea even before Hard mentioned that Ben was one of best gunners and he would be needed in the turret. She just didn’t want to see Ben put himself into danger needlessly. She was not pleased with Hard’s next suggestion.
“The only one that is expendable is the Captain. Send her over. She’s not good with ships systems and doesn’t DO anything.”
Was the dog serious? Or was he just kidding? It was hard to tell with him sometimes. With heat in her voice she said. “If it wasn’t for me we wouldn’t be operating in the black. I’m the one who makes the money here.”
“Well, that’s true, but merchants are replaceable.” And so are bloody pilots she thought loudly to herself.
Through the skills of Bart and Ben, a device was made and skillfully guided to the gaping hole in the engineering section of the space hulk. As predicted when the charge was exploded, the ships came out of hiding to attack the Lady Macbeth. She wasn’t too surprised when one of the ships turned out to be Captain Freiling and his ship the Gundarin. When he started throwing insults was the limit. That man took grudges just a little bit too far. She had no illusions what he would do to her if this ship was captured. Better that it was blown apart than the treatment she and her crew would receive at the hands of that arrogant creature. Okay, maybe she did lead him on and kidnap him, but was it worth hijacking them? She did after all let him go.
Nadina was nervous. She had never been in a space battle before. She felt ten ways useless as Schmee and Hard showed there skills in the cockpit. Equally awesome was Ben and Caine’s skill in the turrets. She may have felt like a useless cog, but dang! She was good at putting a crew together. Two ships against one weren’t good odds. The pirates were faster and had that as a factor in their favor. They didn’t know the Lady Macbeths targeting computers had been upgraded and they had installed more powerful weapons in the turrets. That would be a surprise to them. This was not going to be the easy picking they thought it was going to be. Nadina at least hoped to bloody their noses.
The battle turned in there favor. The skill of the crew was the deciding factor…at least in Captain Rafiks mind. She watched as the two enemy ships run in different directions. She really wanted to get Captain Freiling. She now owed him. She would somehow get even with him. It may take some time, but it would happen. She thought that it would sure be justice if that arrogant, pigheaded, insufferable man was sold into slavery as somebody’s boy toy.
She briefly took over the con and Hard jumped on to the sensors to pick up any radio communication. It was the icing on the cake to hear the captain of the pirate ship Wallach dress down her nemesis Captain Freiling. The fool even broadcast where they were heading. Hopefully the Wallach would find that spud of a fool Zac Glar and give him what’s coming. If not, well she would have to put it on her to do list.
Once the Lady Macbeth towed that derelict space ship to dock and earn credits (hopefully enough to pay for the damage done to her ship), she was going hunting. Now the Gundarin was a pirate ship. They had logs and computer evidence to prove it. She wondered briefly how much reward one could get bringing in a space pirate. She wondered how many ships she could convince to go hunting for Captain Freiling and his crew. Hmmm… that was something worth thinking about.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Wednesday, 03.15.06 @ 22:23pm | #49
That would be way better than having to run down there every time. Thanks Bart.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Thursday, 03.2.06 @ 01:52am | #48
Bart can rig it so you can monitor the cryo tubes from your pocket/wrist computer/communicator.
Posted by GM on Monday, 02.27.06 @ 12:28pm | #47
I was wondering if it would be possible for Bart to wire up remote sensors on the cryotubes so I can monitor them from sick bay.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Tuesday, 02.14.06 @ 00:18am | #46
(backpedaling quickly) I probably should have said professional rather than great. Nothing snarky intended
Posted by Dr Caliban on Tuesday, 02.14.06 @ 00:14am | #45
The Captian doesn't need to know...As long as the captian doesn't have to bail you butts out of Jail...OR it compromises MY SHIP. I just hope your shore leave was better than mine.
By the way doc. Sorry about the sick bay...I hope I didn't mess it up to much.
Posted by Captain Rafik on Sunday, 02.12.06 @ 22:55pm | #44
As far as your inquiry concerning Hard, Doc, Ben, and myself: There is a long standing rule in the spacer business which states "what happens on shore leave stays on shore leave, as long as the Captain doesn't have to bail your butt out of jail."
Posted by Schmee on Saturday, 02.11.06 @ 20:31pm | #43
I would just like to point out that I have never complained about your cooking Captain.
Posted by Schmee on Saturday, 02.11.06 @ 20:28pm | #42
Hey! I take exception to the jab about "now we have a great cook". I AM a great cook! I'll have to rethink that autodoc I've been saving for out of MY personal funds.
Posted by Susan on Wednesday, 02.8.06 @ 18:07pm | #41
Sounds good to me, I could use a taste of civilization again.
Posted by Schmee on Saturday, 02.4.06 @ 16:05pm | #40
Swapping lasers sounds good to me. We will probably make money on it. We still need the autodoc. We'll be at Jewel in a week or so. Lots of opportunity there. Schmee shall we do the museum, theatre, symphony tour? I want to make up for not going when we were on Arden. I'm planning on stocking up on fine food and drink for the ship since we finally have a great cook.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Thursday, 02.2.06 @ 02:32am | #39
I fine with that. No need to kill him. Leave him on some small, out of the way world off the main routes. He should be fine in cryo for several months.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Thursday, 02.2.06 @ 02:26am | #38
How about trading in the 3 350 Mj lasers for another 405 Mj laser. That would outfit us pretty well.
Posted by Jeff on Saturday, 01.21.06 @ 09:56am | #37
What to do with the professor in Cryo:
I propose we drop him off on a sword world. Tell him we cleaned out the base and then sold it to one of the factions on the planet. There using it now as a secret headquarters. Give him 100 credits and let him go. He's a ingenious fellow, live and let live. Obviously we don't expect to cross paths again, if you come looking for us expect to find the business end of a gryoroc rifle.
I really am not cold blooded enough to take an unarmed man out and put a bullet in his head. I sort of hope none of you are either...
Posted by Schmee on Wednesday, 01.18.06 @ 17:32pm | #36
You'll be happy to know that Dev got to fire off a missile last night.
Posted by GM on Wednesday, 01.18.06 @ 13:16pm | #35
So, the Lady MacBeth got advanced targeting systems for the gunner turrets from the last mission, is this correct? Combine this with the fact that Bart is working feverishly on the rocket modifications he's been doing and there would seem to be no reservations on "wasting" rockets.
So, i would send an open log to Captain Rafik involving this matter. Is it still a taboo subject of firing rockets at an enemy ship if suddenly attacked? Should i ask permission before firing rockets or is it a matter of trusting my skill and judgement on doing this?
Posted by Dev on Sunday, 11.27.05 @ 01:04am | #34
I will attend. I need practice with my new sidearm.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Wednesday, 11.23.05 @ 21:00pm | #33
Is there any interest in contacting either Imperial or Arden officials and discussing the attrocities being committed on Quare? I bring it up because if we are leaving for the swordworlds then this is probably our last chance.
Also, we should buy a translator program if we haven't already. It seemed like a lack of funds was the only hinderence last time we priced the software.
Posted by Schmee on Wednesday, 11.23.05 @ 18:29pm | #32
How about this as a route. From Arden to Quare, Quare to Frenzie, Frenzie to Garda-Vilis. Try and find out what information I can on these three worlds. If the Captain can look into the economics of the route. I know Quare is where her uncle dropped off the Zhodonia squad and has insurgents.
Posted by Schmee on Wednesday, 11.23.05 @ 17:43pm | #31
Sounds good Ben. Let me know how i can assist.
Posted by Dev on Tuesday, 11.22.05 @ 14:54pm | #30
Hummph I hate adding extra duty to anyones list
but judging how things went against the mutant dogs I think a little target/tactics practice is
in order. During this jump I would like to request (not order) you all to meet with me for a little basic training and a weapons orientation
nothing heavy just a few pointers that i've learned that you may find usefull. And we can discuss the finer points of a fighting withdrawal
as the Cover you Crews ass while running away is useful.
Thank you
Posted by Ben on Monday, 11.21.05 @ 23:00pm | #29
I will pick up the doctors requested items. If the doctor speaks Zhodoni then a translation would not be necessary, otherwise look for a translation of the "encylopedia". The Captain might be a better choice for food and wine.
How about slugs for the shotgun, they should pack more of a wallop.
Posted by Schmee on Sunday, 11.13.05 @ 17:20pm | #28
Report on Indigenous Predator (Devil Dogs) Encountered on Edinina
The males stood an average of 2 meters at the shoulder, 3 meters long and average 200 kilos in weight. The female was slightly smaller at 1.75 meters high, 2.6 long and 170 kilos. They are armed with sharp canines in powerful jaws and are capable of bursts of speed up to approximately 50 kph. Any jumping or climbing abilities were not observed. They used pack hunting tactics by hitting the intended prey (logging party) from opposite directions.
Each is covered with thick shaggy hair colored to blend with their native surroundings.
Anatomically they resemble Terran canines closely. The only exceptions would be certain physical mutations such as extra toes. One male had extra tails. The heavily muscled jaw would be quite capable of causing injury to someone in light, if not medium armor.
A preliminary genetic study indicated the specimens are closely related to the Terran canine. Comparisons with other native samples prove these animals are not native to this world. Due to the high radiation of this world, the chromosomes of all four specimens (three males and one female) exhibited a large amount of damage and mutation. Two of the males were almost certainly sterile. Tests of tissue samples indicate they are resistant to high levels of radiation, but not immune. They must take cover as the native humans do when the radiation storms hit.
I believe they originally came to Edinina as survivors of the ship crashes and have adapted through rapid mutation.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Saturday, 11.12.05 @ 22:13pm | #27
The illness isn't caused by Imperial space.
Actually, I could use a better sidearm. Something with more punch than the shotgun I was using. A nice sampling of the local wine and food would be nice.
The other thing I was considering for the ship would be a copy of the Zhodani encyclopedia. It is typically known as simply "The Encyclopedia" and would be a useful general reference on all things Zhodani. I don't know if translations are available.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Saturday, 11.12.05 @ 20:44pm | #26
Not that it's any of my business doc, but you do realize we are out of imperial space right. You're with in the Federation of Arden now. There are some Imperial diplomats, agents, and traders in port, not that it would have any bearing on your illness. In any case, let me know if you want me to pick up some music downloads and/or such.
Posted by Schmee on Friday, 11.11.05 @ 11:20am | #25
Schmee,
As much as I would like to accompany you, I'm not feeling well and will be staying with the ship during our time on Arden.
Posted by Dr Caliban on Friday, 11.11.05 @ 03:38am | #24
Ships Log:
Well, as I guess I’m captain. I guess I better write a log. That’s what captains are suppose do to right?
We took on a wood run. We went to a place called Edinina to harvest Hedlar trees. It was supposed to be this big dangerous thing to do. I must have picked a pretty fine crew as they made everything seem easy. Schmee was thorough with his cal