Crew Deck: The Crow's Nest

[Niall]

Perception ☞ 36% 1d100 = 30

JIC 1d20 = 3
1d100 = 21

After playing through several stages of The Telurian Saga on his datapad, Niall heads to the Crow's Nest in his dress uniform. Not sure why they're having the promotion ceremony here as opposed to the briefing room, like last time.

Military Etiquette ☞ 80% 1d100 = 79 (SUCCESS)

Niall takes a seat away from the bar. After the small bottle of Ego's prime hooch, he's not super interested in the thrice-distilled toilet bowl cleaner they call alcohol in here, so he orders nothing. If he sees anyone he knows he says hello.

When the other members of the 1st SOG come in, he stands and walks over to them. When he sees Nova and Ego, he asks "Anything cool from the Armory?"

[Ryden]

Perception: 83-5=78%/1d100 = 24
JIC: 1d100 = 92, 1d20 = 17
Military Etiquette 88-5=83%/1d100 = 50 PASS!

Ryden circulates, saying hello to anyone he recognizes, especially anyone from ADP, Engineering, the Flight Deck, or other SOGs. Afterwards he settles with some water at Niall's table. Ryden is fidgeting with the tablet, working on a dozen coding projects a little bit at a time. He is, of course, making no progress on any of them, but he finds it hard to concentrate without his suit computer. Also it allows him to stay aware of people moving around them, as well as casual conversation. Still, he feels naked without his suit computer and it shows to those who know him.

"Wonder why Speckles is holding the ceremony here, unless he's going to skip right to the party afterward." Ryden chuckles a bit a this.

[Augur]

Conditions:
Local Time: Day 54, 1730
Location: A.D.F.S. Dauntless, 1st S.O.G. Berthing

Ryden walks in, spots Niall and Halko, and takes a seat with them at a table. Two female officers are seated, grimacing as they sip degreaser. One wears a resting bitch face like it's very comfortable and familiar to her. She's got the gold ribbon and silver star of a commander over her left breast. The other female officer looks to be a Hoshi: creamy skin, beautiful, almond-shaped eyes, and lustrous blue-black hair. A tight alertness around her her eyes and the blue ribbon with a silver star marks her as a Captain in rank. He can't make out their M.O.S. patches in the lighting though. Aside from the two female officers, his incomplete gang, and the bartender that Rosseyn slept with, the XO of the Dauntless, CDR Mikhai Renzi, is present. The Crow's Nest is full of brass. Halko's the only enlisted even present. The Hoshi Captain looks rather familiar, but Ryden can't place the face. A few minutes later, a burst comes through and Ryden's datapad beeps at him. It's a message from Bodean.

Code: Select all

"Hey Big Guy, we're back in the fleet. Hope things are going well for you and your wife! If you get a chance, send us a vid message. Just wanted to say hi. Talk to you later! Brainiac out."

"Sumbitch! You're still alive! Would you know that I helped train-up those cats in the 1st MEU? But CPT Anaru wouldn't let me join 'em! Speckles told him I was too valuable a training resource given my time in the SOG, and he bought it! Good guy, that Anaru, but I came damn close to punching him into the nearest star when the frakker told me that! Villana and I are doing well otherwise. Debatin' with her Twilight Valley style --nudge nudge-- about making a little Marrowrath together. Anyway, I gotta git. You give the SOG my best! --B"

Ryden's e-mail to LCDR Davis, SUPPO receives a terse reply.
"Lieutenant? Well, congrats, shipmate. I got the box of chocolates. Kept a prototype suit on hold for you in case you made it back from your squad's operation. Hit up the new Chief Sergeant. She's already been apprised of the sitch." The message terminates. There is no signature.

Ryden's e-mail to CDR Perry, COMMO receives a nearly gushing reply for a woman of her reserve.
"Lieutenant, I couldn't begin to thank you more. Not only is the girly stuff absolutely wonderful, but you brought back enough spare parts for a number of departments to make vital repairs. Seriously, if you see any brass at the Nest, you can bet your rations will be no good there. I let them all know who they had to thank for all the materiel. Have fun at your new command. --COMMO"

Ryden's generic status report to Miwa of being back in the fleet gets delivered, but he gets an automated response in return.
"I'm currently unavailable and unable to disclose my whereabouts. INFOSEC, you know. Leave me a message. If this is my 2D Ninja, I hope you brought me something either sweet or that smells good! Looking forward to hooking up for some side-scroll action over some degreaser with you."

[Ryden]

Perception: 83-5=78%/1d100 = 36
JIC: 1d100 = 80, 1d20 = 11

Ryden is certain the Hoshi woman is the captain of the Stilleto. Makes the woman beside her the XO. She's got an XO look to her. Resting bitch face just made her a natural for it. But the message from B-Man brightens Ryden's face. "Crash, Backlash, guess who trained up the First Marine Expeditionary unit? None other than our B-Man. Dude is definitely the type to sharpen marines into super bad asses. Sounds of it, they are trying their best to have a little Marrowrath too. Gods, that still wigs me out. But damn hard to be anything but happy for them. After all of this we'll have to send him a unit pic and message from all of us."

The message from LCDR Davis brings a smile to Ryden's face. 'This is why you do favors for people in supply. They do you favors! Wait, Congratulations for what?' Reading Commander Perry's email has him smiling until the last few words which immediately bring him back to LCDR Davis's opening statement. His eyes immediately snap up to the Hoshi woman and her dour companion. Captain Tanaka of the ADF Stiletto. Which would make her bitch faced partner...a quick check of the info net..Commander Qorbin. The team was about to switch commands. He swallows hard.

He shoots off an email to Rosseyn.
"Nova. SITREP.
The Nest is brass central. There are two female officers. Pretty sure they are both our new command team. Captain Tanaka of the Stiletto, Hoshi woman, and I think Commander Qorbin. Will confirm and message back. Dauntless XO, Renzi, is also here. Got a message from B-Man, he says hello.
Brainiac."
Ryden copies the entire team, including Ego.

He then casually slides his tablet over to Crash and Backlash with the message up as he gets up and heads over to the Hoshi woman. "Captain, Commander. Welcome to the Dauntless. Lt. Ryden Hunter. I'm pleased to meet you both and wanted to thank you both for your attendance of this ceremony. Are you both from the Stiletto?"

[Niall]

Perception ☞ 36% 1d100 = 5

JIC 1d20 = 9
1d100 = 81

When Niall sees other members of the 1st enter the Crow's Nest, he waves them over.

"Wonder why Speckles is holding the ceremony here, unless he's going to skip right to the party afterward."

Niall nods, feeling a bit more at ease now that some of his teammates are here. "I was wondering that myself."

Niall scans the room as Ryden does his thing - head down over a screen. He notices the room is full of officers. Did Crow's Nest become an officer's club while we were away?

"Crash, Backlash, guess who trained up the First Marine Expeditionary unit? None other than our B-Man. Dude is definitely the type to sharpen marines into super bad asses. Sounds of it, they are trying their best to have a little Marrowrath too. Gods, that still wigs me out. But damn hard to be anything but happy for them. After all of this we'll have to send him a unit pic and message from all of us."

Niall smiles widely at this bit of news. "What'd they always used to say? 'Twilight Valley will rise again'? Heh. Bodean's gonna be personally responsible for that, I imagine." Niall tries not to think about Bodean and Villana's close blood relationship.

When Ryden slides his tablet Niall's way, he reads it with interest.

"Nova. SITREP.
The Nest is brass central. There are two female officers. Pretty sure they are both our new command team. Captain Tanaka of the Stiletto, Hoshi woman, and I think Commander Qorbin. Will confirm and message back. Dauntless XO, Renzi, is also here. Got a message from B-Man, he says hello.
Brainiac."

Stiletto? What's that about? Niall looks up, and tries to find Tanaka in the crowd. Wait - are we being transferred off the Dauntless? Why?

[Cairo]

Perception [59%]: 1d100 = 3 [+15% in Space]
JiC D20: 1d20 = 9
JiC D100: 1d100 = 76

A clean-shaven Cairo walks into the Crow's Nest [toting any remaining liquor Ego had originally brought along, which he'll drop at the Bar first thing], and then looks around for the rest of the Squad. Once he finds an open seat with the others he greets them, "Crash, Brainiac, Backlash, how are we doing this evening? Good to hear that Bodean is doing well. Anyone hear anything interesting while roaming the corridors? I guess they are setting up hydroponics on a couple of ships, so that's good news. Still in set up mode though, so I guess it'll be a while until we see anything fresh that we'd recognize. I wonder if we have anyone in Fleet with Plant powers."

If/when directed to check his Email (or the tablet on the table), CJ will read Brainiac's summation of the Brass present and looks over at the Stiletto Command team. CJ recognizes Captain Tanaka from their video-call this morning, *Interesting. Damn, she's much cuter in person. I wonder what kind of operations they have been handling, if they got over to Chandrakhant and Hesperos, or if it's all just Fleet-babysitting all the time. Hell they may have other SOGs running to entirely different quadrants, reaching out and making friends in high, or low places.*

[Augur]

Conditions:
Local Time: Day 54, 1735
Location: A.D.F.S. Dauntless, 1st S.O.G. Berthing

Into the Crow's Nest walk two people who could not be more dissimilar in appearance. They both look familiar to the older members of the 1st SOG.

The woman's voice is as hauntingly beautiful as she is as she laughs at some remark made by her companion. Every aspect of her appearance suggests grace, and a beauty refined through careful study of both the sophisticated and feminine arts. She is of slightly taller than average height for an Arismal woman. Lean of figure, elegant in dress, and absolutely polished in both appearance and demeanor. Her companion is short, wiry, appears introverted and uncomfortable in this environment, and is sending off nearly palpable waves of sexual anxiety.

[Ryden]

(Rolls held)
'Of course Ms. Perchuhi and Mr. Aleš are here. That would only make things awkward.' He looks for the monocle recorder she wore on the Profit Motive. 'Mr. Aleš, of course, had barely been involved in anything, but I imagine he's been very busy since the flow of food from the Second's mission and now ours.'

He walks up to Mr. Aleš, and coincidentally his beautiful companion. Normally he would simply disregard her as stupid - usually brains and beauty do not come in the same package, but like Jill, that was not the case for Ms. Perchuhi. She is a super-predator and every bit the analyst he is, though focused likely on other things. "Mr. Aleš, Ms. Perchuhi. Lt. Ryden Hunter. We met briefly aboard the Profit Motive. I hope the night finds you in good spirits, or at least better than average." 'Damn, 23 days ago we got them.' Aside from greeting them, he does not press for more conversation, though he will engage them if pressed. He begins looking around for the FAR Ambassador at this point. Ms. Perchuhi would make an excellent analyst to glean information from her and Mr. Aleš would be an obvious bait for conversation. The man behind the food distribution in the fleet.

When he sits down, he grabs his datapad and types something from memory as a reply to all message.

'Also present, we have Isabela Perchuhi and Rúni Aleš.

Isabela Perchuhi: Tier 2. A former fashion model turned journalist (some would say propagandist) for the planetary council, she's well-known for her great beauty and ability to use that to disarm her targets. A well-known political commentator, analyst, and public relations mogul who worked for the planetary council. I figure she's here to read us for the admiralty, or, more likely, to read the FAR ambassador when she comes later.

Rúni Aleš: Unknown Tier; stayed out of the media despite his once great wealth. A wealthy entrepreneur (and pacifist) who introduced new food distribution methods to restaurant chains. I am 95% certain he was instrumental in the current food stock status for the fleet. Guy's an introvert, so keep questions brief and on topic. I figure he's here as part of the show that comes along with all this Brass.
--Brainiac'

[Augur]

Conditions:
Local Time: Day 54, 1740
Location: A.D.F.S. Dauntless, 1st S.O.G. Berthing

Almost as if on que, the FAR diplomat and her Arismal security escort show up.

Wanda flashes a warm smile at the 1st SOG members who are present, says a word to Rolyn, then wanders over to have a seat by the two A.D.F. women already seated. They begin to talk to one another. It looks like formal introductions as handshakes are exchanged. Rolyn splits off from Wanda and heads for the 1st SOG. Giving Cairo a big hug, he says "Sorry about the cold shoulder, C.J. I don't play games in the field. It's been damned good to see so many Arismal in one place and managing to survive."

Ryden introduces himself to the two civilians. "Mr. Aleš, Ms. Perchuhi. Lt. Ryden Hunter. We met briefly aboard the Profit Motive. I hope the night finds you in good spirits, or at least better than average."

Unexpectedly, Mr. Aleš is the first the respond. "Congratulations on your commission, Lieutenant. Yes, I remember each of you who were on board the ship. I'm glad we could avoid a physical confrontation that day."
Ms. Perchuhi follows suit less pointedly. She seems to have no sharp edges, only soft, rounded corners smoothed and polished by beauty, and, Ryden can discern, through years of careful practice. "It's a pleasure to meet you Lieutenant. Unlike Rúni, I do not have an eidetic memory, but I do recall you and your teammates from that day. Well, your strong, handsome faces and the disaster you averted anyway." She looks over at Rúni. "Remember what we're not supposed to disclose, Rúni." She returns her attention to Ryden. "We're in fine spirits, Mr. Hunter. It's not every day that we're invited to attend a military ceremony. Won't you introduce me to your teammates?"

[Ryden]

(rolls held)

Almost as if on que, the FAR diplomat and her Arismal security escort show up.

'And there they are.'

Unexpectedly, Mr. Aleš is the first the respond. "Congratulations on your commission, Lieutenant. Yes, I remember each of you who were on board the ship. I'm glad we could avoid a physical confrontation that day."
Ms. Perchuhi follows suit less pointedly. She seems to have no sharp edges, only soft, rounded corners smoothed and polished by beauty, and, Ryden can discern, through years of careful practice. "It's a pleasure to meet you Lieutenant. Unlike Rúni, I do not have an eidetic memory, but I do recall you and your teammates from that day. Well, your strong, handsome faces and the disaster you averted anyway."

"Thank you kindly. I am glad to have avoided it as well Mr. Aleš, more than you know. With all the tension in the fleet, any physical conflict between Arismal are to be strictly avoided if possible. You're far too polite to call me handsome Ms. Perchuhi, though admittedly some of my squad are. An Eidetic memory has its benefits and its burdens, as I am sure Mr. Aleš can confirm. There are things one would rather forget the details of, but cannot." He sounds to be talking from experience.

She looks over at Rúni. "Remember what we're not supposed to disclose, Rúni." She returns her attention to Ryden. "We're in fine spirits, Mr. Hunter. It's not every day that we're invited to attend a military ceremony. Won't you introduce me to your teammates?"

"I'd be happy to, but can it wait until they are all here? But if you'd like I can introduce you to those who are here now."

Contingency: If she insists, Ryden will lead them to the 1st's table. "Team, may I present Ms. Isabela Perchuhi and Mr. Rúni Aleš. Mr. Aleš is best known as a genius who has mastered the art of food distribution networks in the past. Ms. Perchuhi was a well known political commentator and analyst, and I am sure her mastery of her craft has only increased. I believe you will both recognize Lt. Niall Zeddus, and Sergeant Jerrick Halko, both from their times before the military and the mission to the Profit Motive. May I also present Lt. Cairo Xanrays, a newer addition to our team since we met you 23 days ago. I'll let Lt. Xanrays introduce his friend."

[Cairo]

Perception [59%]: 1d100 = 72 [+15% in Space]
JiC D20: 1d20 = 17
JiC D100: 1d100 = 99

Relaxing casually at the table, CJ watches as none other than Isabela Perchuhi walks in, *Hoooo-boy. She looks just as good as she did 10-12 years ago walking a catwalk in lingerie. All the grace of a frill cat, claws that go with it; a little bit domestic and a little more of the wyld. What's the old saying? Women and cats will do as they please, and men and dogs should relax and get used to the idea. Well she maybe not quite the same, but still wow. She's some kind of politician now right? ... * His eyes flit briefly to an email where Brainiac is advising Nova of the Prorx nest they seem to have landed in, *and it will probably requires twice the care to get out without being stung. Hmmmm so the pale little guy is a pacifist? How do you stick to something like that when the world has been shattered.*

His gaze is momentarily drawn by yet another shapely form as Wanda and and Rolyn arrive, *Ahhhh a new rival-challenger type. Bringing a bit of the exotic in from out of Fleet, but still don't know about trusting that one.* CJ cocks an eyebrow at Rolly's repeated apology, "No worries Cousin. We hashed it all out last couple days right?"

When Brainiac approaches the table with the civilian-supermodel (ex-or not) in-tow, Cairo's fairly sure he'll wake up any second now. When that doesn't happen though, he rises to shake hands politely, "Good evening, Cairo Xanreys, and this is my cousin Rolyn Xanreys."

[Niall]

Perception ☞ 36% 1d100 = 17 (SUCCESS)

JIC 1d20 = 16
1d100 = 17

"Crash, Brainiac, Backlash, how are we doing this evening? Good to hear that Bodean is doing well. Anyone hear anything interesting while roaming the corridors? I guess they are setting up hydroponics on a couple of ships, so that's good news. Still in set up mode though, so I guess it'll be a while until we see anything fresh that we'd recognize. I wonder if we have anyone in Fleet with Plant powers."

"No new scuttlebutt. Though I suppose..." He looks around the room at all the brass, "There will be some soon." Niall thinks about the hydroponics op, and wonders if his haul of seeds motivated that, or if it was a happy coincidence. In the future, we'll either have to engineer or obtain some food seeds that perform well in... what do the aliens call them... low-light conditions. Normal lighting. Though I suppose that can wait until we have a colony set up somewhere and know what the situation there will be. "If they're the seeds I brought back, I dunno if it'll ever be any food you recognize. But I hope it'll be a step up from nutrient paste."

Niall's eyes follow Ryden's as Runi Aleš and Isabela Perchuhi enter. He smiles, glad to see them in good health after their tense encounter on the Profit Motive. He can't help but wonder what they're doing here, at a promotion ceremony, but he rises to greet them nonetheless. He scans his memories for anything related to Runi's business dealings or personal interests.

Business and Finance ☞ 70% 1d100 = 14 (Runi Aleš - SUCCESS)
Intelligence ☞ 70% 1d100 = 83 (Runi Aleš - FAIL)

When Ryden introduces them, Niall shakes Runi's hand. "Mr. Aleš... we didn't have the opportunity to talk aboard the Profit Motive. Niall Zeddeus. I'm familiar with your work back on Arismal - I dined often at Ravo, in Irinu. One of the restaurants in your network. Always the finest food. Pleased to meet you. I take it you're the one setting up the hydroponics operation?"

As he greets Isabela, he also tries to remember any particular business or personal interests of hers.

Business and Finance ☞ 70% 1d100 = 90 (Isabela Perchuhi - FAIL)
Intelligence ☞ 70% 1d100 = 17 (Isabel Perchuhi - SUCCESS)

Niall also moves quickly to take Isabela's hand, offering her a warm smile.

Charm/Impress ☞ 20% 1d100 = 32 (FAIL)

Gods... is it possible she's even more beautiful than when we met. Unbidden, Ryden's warning about her flashes through his mind, and he chuckles. She's a PR hack - I wonder if my parents ever contracted through her to repair the damage I did to our family name. I don't recall her name coming up around the table... but dad was never one to trot our mistakes out over dinner. Regardless, he thinks, I have no doubt exactly how she sees me.

"Niall Zeddeus. Glad to meet under more relaxed circumstances."

[Augur]

Conditions:
Local Time: Day 54, 1745
Location: A.D.F.S. Dauntless

Rolyn nods, still with a tightness around his eyes, and leans in to whisper to Cairo. "Hard to let my guard down or trust anyone here though, especially after hearing about the infighting. It'll be a welcome relief to transfer to a smaller ship."

When Brainiac approaches the table with the civilian supermodel, Cairo rises to shake hands politely, "Good evening, Cairo Xanreys, and this is my cousin Rolyn Xanreys."

She shakes hands politely with both of them then almost perceptibly brightens the room when she smiles at Wanda. "And you must be the diplomat Arismal's finest has brought safely to the fleet! Tell me, what do you think of the proposed idea of a military organization holding an election? An election where only the captains of the military ships are viable candidates?"

Perhaps for the first time since meeting her, the 1st SOG's present members see Wanda look flustered. She's only able to feebly respond with a choked out "Wha...what?"

Niall's eyes follow Ryden's as Runi Aleš and Isabela Perchuhi enter. He scans his memories for anything related to Runi's business dealings or personal interests. Mr. Aleš' exploits are well known despite the low profile he always maintained. A very private multi-millionaire, Mr. Aleš was always one who had shunned the limelight and scrutiny of the Arismal global media industry even when his work earned him world-wide repute. When Ryden introduces them, Niall shakes Runi's hand. "Mr. Aleš...we didn't have the opportunity to talk aboard the Profit Motive. Niall Zeddeus. I'm familiar with your work back on Arismal - I dined often at Ravo, in Irinu. One of the restaurants in your network. Always the finest food. Pleased to meet you. I take it you're the one setting up the hydroponics operation?"

"Just consulting and assisting, as always." Niall detects a hint of disdain from the man directed at him. Perhaps due to the fact that the two men could not have lead more different public lives.

As Niall greets Isabela, he also tries to remember any particular business or personal interests of hers. He can't recall which of the telecomm conglomerates with whom she worked, but he does remember that she was the top of her entire field, and by a healthy margin. He also seems to recall her having been the target of that same field on more than one occasion with rumors of her having various highly influential men and women under her sway over the course of her career. "Niall Zeddeus. Glad to meet under more relaxed circumstances."

She cups both of her hands around his outstretched one and gives it a gentle squeeze. "So sorry for your loss, Mr. Zeddeus. Your father was a fine man; a true paragon of virtue among a class often filled with charlatans." While Niall might not be the most charming fellow at all times, he sincerely feels the warmth of not only her luxuriously supple skin but also that of her expressed sentiment and is genuinely moved by it. Not an ounce of artifice appears present in her countenance.

[Rosseyn]

Perception: 1d100 = 90/43% 58% regarding modern technology, 68% to perceiving any tactile characteristics, 83% regarding modern technology + tactile characteristics simultaneously
JIC: 1d20 = 10/1d100 = 37

When the other members of the 1st SOG come in, he stands and walks over to them. When he sees Nova and Ego, he asks "Anything cool from the Armory?"

Rosseyn walks in with Ego and some items stashed under his arms. Giving a nod to Niall, he greets him. "Zeddeus! They've got all kinds of stuff in there. I picked these up for the crew. Well, except me and Backlash. I'm not sure if his exploding or my energy transformation would allow these to work properly. We'll get it figured out."

Looking around, he sees the brass, civilians and diplomats all hanging around chatting it up. Definitely a strange sight for the bar here. Speaking of the bar... Rosseyn hands Niall the harnesses and says "Get these handed out. I'm grabbing a drink."

Walking up to the bar, he smiles at the bartender and says "Good to see you, sweetheart. What've you got back there for me?" She looks as good as ever.

[Cairo]

Perception [59%]: 1d100 = 9 [+15% in Space]
JiC D20: 1d20 = 11
JiC D100: 1d100 = 88

When Isabela's query stumps Wanda, CJ offers a friendly comment [Lore: Alien (80%): 1d100 = 16], "Actually, that is referred to as a stratocracy, a form of government headed by military chiefs. Typically you will find such in societies in which the state and the military are traditionally or constitutionally the merged. Citizens with mandatory service, or veterans who have been honorably discharged, usually have the right to elect. The military's administrative, judiciary, and/or legislature powers are supported by law, the constitution, and the society. A stratocracy can therefore be considered a meritocracy and does not necessarily need to be autocratic or oligarchic by nature in order to preserve its right to rule. If I am not mistaken the Bwadenn of your FAR were as well, order their society as such, correct? Or am I thinking of someone else? ..."

CJ offers a wave of greeting as Nova and New-Guy (Ego) get to the Crows Nest and stifles a chuckle as he sees that they have brought along several harnesses, *Now that's a bit funny. He's got to have a Portal back to the Berthing, why carry all that stuff around?*

[Corrigon]

perception 38% 1d100 = 32
JIC 1d20 = 13 1d100 = 61

Corrigon follows Rosseyn into the Crow's Nest, the holster for his new hand cannon empty having quickly secured it in their berthing, but otherwise suited and booted in his dress uniform and damn did he make it look good. Definitely get in trouble for carrying a weapon around all these people. Noticing the ranks of the people there, he raised an eyebrow. Pretty sure I'm the lowest ranked person in this room ... who isn't a civilian.

"Sir," he greets Niall, though he sounds a little hesitant to use his name, considering they had only met for a few minutes before he and Rosseyn had gone to the armoury.

He looks around and spots a few people from the Profit Motive. He nods a greeting at them before heading to the bar. Get a drink first, maybe

After collecting a drink, he goes over to the civilians from the Profit Motive. He still had a good relationship with them after his stint onboard.

"Good to see you again," he greets them with a smile, "how is life on-board the profit Motive nowadays?"

[Halko]

Percep 39%: 1d100 = 89
JIC: 1d20 = 5 1d100 = 88

Halko stays seated next to Ryden, trying his best to not put any creases in the dress uniform. When Ryden pushes the data pad across the table with the info on the Stiletto Captain, Halko simply offers a nod. That may be but there's no use speculating. One way or another, we will see what happens.

When the various people start to gravitate over to their table, Halko slides out and smooths out his uniform, dusting of the shoulders and tugging the lapel straight. Offering a hand, smile and a nod to those he's introduced to, Halko stays pretty quiet as he starts to wonder if it rally is him getting the promotion today. Frak, could it really be me. Why the hell are all these officers here? They better not be making me an officer. I mean, I'll take Master Chief but butter bars just aren't for me.

[Niall]

(Rolls carried over)

"Sir,"

Niall smiles at the man. Though in the presence of all this brass, he can't help but correct the enlisted man - though he does so under his breath - "Don't 'sir' me."

He claps Ego on the shoulder, and moves off to speak to the others.

[Augur]

Conditions:
Local Time: Day 54, 1800
Location: A.D.F.S. Dauntless

"ATTENTION ON DECK!" Calls out CDR Qorbin as she stands and snaps to attention. Her eyes fix on the members of the 1st SOG, assessing their reaction time and response to the directive. As everyone in the Crow's Nest follows suit rapidly, into the ship's bar walk two master at arms leading another pair of figures:

The commanding officer of the A.D.F.S. Dauntless, Captain Zoi Cardea, and the one time squad leader turned commanding officer of the Special Operations Command, Lieutenant Commander Nibiru Akeno, both stride into the space. They cross the silent bar until they're standing in front of the bar itself. Nibiru sets down a black box on the bar, and the pair turn around. "At ease," commands the Captain of the ship. Everyone standing relaxes a bit from their tense posture. The CO and XO of the Stiletto, and Rolyn walk to stand to one side of the bar. The civilian advisers and the FAR Diplomat stand to the other side. LCDR Akeno and CPT Cardea stand at the end of what is effectively a brief gauntlet.

The Captain looks around the room to see that she has the attention of everyone present. She speaks.

"Ever since day zero, the destruction of our beloved homeworld, the members present in this room have served with distinction in defense of the A.D.F. and, indeed, in defense of the species with unwavering commitment to the preservation of our people and our way of life. We are gathered here today to recognize some of them for the dedication to this cause. Due to the attempted coup which cost us the lives of our most senior leadership, one such ceremony was neglected in favor at the time of more vital needs. We will begin this ceremony by correcting that oversight."

"First SOG, fall in line!" calls out LCDR Akeno. Rosseyn, Ryden, Cairo, Niall, Halko, and Corrigon quickly form a line opposite the gauntlet. "Ridatharen, front and center!"

"ATTENTION TO ORDERS!" Calls out CDR Qorbin. Everyone present snaps to attention, even the civilians...sort of.

Captain Cardea clears her throat and says in a loud, clear, and commanding voice, "Acting upon my own authority, and under the recommendation of the commander, special operations command, I have placed special trust and confidence in the honor, courage, and integrity of Lieutenant Rosseyn Ridatharen. In view of these special qualities and his demonstrated potential to serve in the higher grade, Second Lieutenant Rosseyn Ridatharen is promoted to the permanent grade of Lieutenant Commander, Arismal Defense Force this day by my special order." Nibiru reaches into the box, and retrieves the LCDR rank insignia. She steps forward and stands in front of Rosseyn, Nibiru follows her lead. She says just loud enough for Rosseyn and no one else to hear. "You were supposed to be promoted to First Lieutenant some time ago, but that got lost in the aftermath of the coup." She removes his old rank insignia, exchanges it with Nibiru for the new insignia, and pins it on his uniform breast. Captain Cardea and Lieutenant Commander Akeno both take two steps back. The gauntlet of officers and civilians then turn ninety degrees to face the newly promoted officer. The civilians merely stand there, but all military personnel snap a crisp salute which Rosseyn returns before the salute is dropped and he takes two steps back himself.

This ceremony is repeated with Niall being promoted to 1st Lieutenant, Cairo being promoted to 2nd Lieutenant, Ryden also being promoted to 2nd Lieutenant, and Halko being promoted to Staff Sergeant. When the last promotion is done being officiated, Captain Cardea calls out "Commander Ridatharen, your first assignment is to transfer your command to the A.D.F.S. Stiletto by 0800 tomorrow where you will work in conjunction with Captain Tanaka and her command to execute the duties assigned you by Special Operations Command." She then smiles and barks, "Commander Akeno, see to it that everyone has a good time before leaving my ship!" She throws those assembled one last salute, then leaves the Crow's Nest.

---

Niall's new rank insignia:

Code: Select all

[img]http://explorersunlimited.com/images/upload/2018/03/10/20180310064553-50787303.png[/img]

Cairo & Ryden's new rank insignia:

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[img]http://explorersunlimited.com/images/upload/2017/07/06/20170706194649-5ed11a3f.png[/img]

Halko's new rank insignia:

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[img]http://explorersunlimited.com/images/upload/2018/03/10/20180310064554-6bd5bfe0.png[/img]

What are your intentions?

[Cairo]

Perception [59%]: 1d100 = 28 [+15% in Space]
JiC D20: 1d20 = 7
JiC D100: 1d100 = 81

Military Etiquette [105%]: 1d100 = 33

When CDR Qorbin stands and givers her summons to Attention Cairo will stand as appropriate well ahead of the arrival of the MAAs, and falls in as directed with the others. CJ snaps a crisp salute when Rosseyn receives his promotion and is genuinely happy for the fellow but finds his own hopes of actually catching up and finding parity on the team falter when Niall is promoted to 1st Lieutenant, *I suppose that is what I get for hoping that Ryden and I would catch up, that there could be 3 equally ranked Lieutenants. Hell how crazy would it really have been to push the appointed 2nd in command to 1st Lieutenant? He only has 2 damn days more time in this Unit than I do, and I didn't get mindfrakked and turn on my team during the Coup. Instead, he got promoted again, and I'm stuck taking his butterbars comments until I lose it and get court marshalled for killing him hehehe* The last thought finds Cairo shaking his head in self-reproach as Captain Cardea departs after indicating their reassignment to the Stilleto will take effect in the morning.

The PA Pilot turns to face Brainiac and offers a bemused salute, "2nd Lieutenant Hunter. If we're shipping out in the AM, well I had not realized we would be leaving and sort of mentioned to Doc Links you might have something for him. Not sure if your care-packages have all made it through quarantine yet, but if his did, you might want to kick by and make your drop before we get shuffled off. Or I can handle if you are busy doing something with, or for ..." CJ visibly struggles to find Ryden's girlfriend's name, "Miwa?"

Whenever the others come by, Cairo offers a handshake and "Congratulations."

If anyone ever gets round to putting on some music, CJ will meander over to offer a polite 'Hello' to the Stilleto command team of Captain Tanaka and Commander Corbin (whose 'resting bitch face' might just be someone who hasn't had reason to smile for a few months), then quirk his head slightly to the side and smile before extending his hand, "What's that Commander? Why sure, I would love to dance." (If rebuffed, CJ will immediately apologize and explain that he misheard, however if she is interested CJ will show a fair amount of skill and grace while dancing tastefully [[ PP of 30 & Dance [80%]: 1d100 = 3 ]])

[Niall]

Perception ☞ 36% 1d100 = 50

JIC 1d20 = 16
1d100 = 21

"Just consulting and assisting, as always."

Niall smiles at the man, hoping to put him at ease. "Don't be modest. I'm sure you'll have us all farming in no time."

"So sorry for your loss, Mr. Zeddeus. Your father was a fine man; a true paragon of virtue among a class often filled with charlatans."

Niall remembers his own run-ins with the press, and his face goes flush in spite of himself. However, the warmth of her hands and personality stir feelings in Niall that he has not felt in some time, and he finds himself disarmed by her charm. "Yes. Yes he was. I hope one day I am regarded as such, but his are... were some substantial shoes to walk in, and I have quite a long way to go."

Niall snaps to attention when it's called, leaving the harnesses on the table where Nova had set them down. I guess I'll hand those out afterward.

Niall stifles a smile when he sees Nibiru. There'll be time for catching up later. Niall falls in line and snaps to attention one more as the ceremony begins.

"Acting upon my own authority, and under the recommendation of the commander, special operations command, I have placed special trust and confidence in the honor, courage, and integrity of Lieutenant Rosseyn Ridatharen. In view of these special qualities and his demonstrated potential to serve in the higher grade, Second Lieutenant Rosseyn Ridatharen is promoted to the permanent grade of Lieutenant Commander, Arismal Defense Force this day by my special order."

Niall salutes with the others, brimming with pride at the recognition of his CO's accomplishments. The 1st SOG really has done a lot in a short time... much of that is thanks to solid leadership. Nova deserves this.

Niall steps up to receive his own promotion, and salutes with the others for CJ's, Ryden's, and Halko's promotions. He looks at his teammates with appreciation. We really are a good mix of skills, abilities, and personalities. No one I'd rather have with me in the field.

"Commander Ridatharen, your first assignment is to transfer your command to the A.D.F.S. Stiletto by 0800 tomorrow where you will work in conjunction with Captain Tanaka and her command to execute the duties assigned you by Special Operations Command."

Niall's eyes widen involuntarily. Wait... we're transferring to the Stiletto? That explains Tanaka and Qorbin being here I suppose... Niall tries to remember what he knows about the Prowess Destroyer Stiletto.

Intelligence ☞ 70% 1d100 = 73 (remember technical specs of Stiletto as well as any tactical advantages that class of ship - or that particular ship - may have - FAIL)
Intelligence ☞ 70% 1d100 = 4 (CRIT SUCCESS)

That's a destroyer - she's a smaller ship, faster than the Dauntless. Smaller crew complement - up to 200 if I recall correctly. Nuclear fusion drive... which I'm not rated on. And much heavier weapons. Will the Eclipse be able to dock on the Stiletto?

"Commander Akeno, see to it that everyone has a good time before leaving my ship!"

Niall offers a crisp salute once more as Captain Cardea exits the Crow's Nest. He then offers his congratulations to each of his teammates.

Turning first to Halko, he smiles and says, "Looking good with those new insignia, soldier. You got your 'Eye of Tangarat'" He laughs, referring to the colloquial term for the design made by the crescents for the Staff Sergeant Rank. He'd heard, in the old days of the Arismal Navy, sailors used to get an 'Eye of Tangarat' tattoo the first time they circumnavigated the seas... with the establishment of the ADF and its rank structure, some of the 'old salts' took to calling that particular insignia by the old name, due to its similarity to their tattoo. "You gonna get the tattoo to match?" Maybe it's time to start a new tradition.

When he sees Ryden, he offers him a handshake. "Brainiac. Congrats. You better watch out, or you'll be the first so-called 'mundane' promoted to fleet admiral." He offers him a genuine smile, before quickly adding, "...but I hope not. We need you in the 1st."

To Cairo, he says "Congratulations Fang. I think of all of us here... I'm most jealous of you." He offers a sidelong glance to Rolyn. "It... It'll be some time before most of us have what you have here today. Until then... I suppose we'll just have to be each other's family."

He offers Nova a grin and a crisp salute. "Commander. A double promotion. That's pretty fantastic... but I daresay you deserve it. Way to go, Nova."

Niall approaches Lt. Cmdr. Akeno and smiles. "Speckles... good to see you. I see the fleet's keeping you busy as ever. Hopefully not too much of that is covering our asses." Niall laughs.

As the music starts up and drinks start being served, Niall collects a drink for each of the 1st SOG - including LCDR Akeno (perhaps a slight breach of etiquette but Niall hopes it will be forgiven) - and hands them out. He holds his glass up and says "To my brothers in the 1st!" and slams his drink back.

As CJ makes his move on Qorbin, Niall approaches Captain Tanaka. He offers a perfunctory but businesslike salute, and says "Captain. From what I recall of the Stiletto, she's a fine ship. I'll miss the Dauntless, but I'm looking forward to serving with you."

When he has the opportunity, he'll circle back around to Isabella Perchuhi, seemingly drawn to her involuntarily. "May I get you another drink, Ms. Perchuhi?" He will do so if asked. "I hope you're enjoying yourself... This is a far sight better than our last promotion - but that was more akin to a battlefield promotion than anything else, coming when it did."

[Augur]

Conditions:
Local Time: Day 54, 1815
Location: A.D.F.S. Dauntless

CJ meanders over to offer a polite hello to the Stiletto command team, then quirk his head slightly to the side and smile before extending his hand, "What's that Commander? Why sure, I would love to dance."

The greetings are returned, seemingly cheerfully by Tanaka, but Commander Qorbin sets her drink down and meets Cairo's eyes when he tries his stunt. "I made no such proposition. Mind your P's and Q's when on the Stiletto, mister. We run a tight ship. She's no taxi for some interstellar playboy's flights of fancy."

CJ apologizes and tries to explain away his stunt--she's clearly not buying one whit of it--when Captain Tanaka points him to a clear space on the floor. "Move your feet, mister!" she cajoles him. With what seems an impossibility--speed without motion--a nanosecond later she's occupying the space to which she just pointed and a lively, Hoshi jazz song is suddenly playing. Most of the spoken Arismal dialect is foreign to those ears present, but the rhythm of the music is amenable enough. After a few moment's dancing, Captain Tanaka raises an eyebrow. "You were a professional dancer in a past incarnation?" she teases appreciatively. Her own dancing is not skilled, but is amazingly graceful, like her body itself is a musical instrument being played by the most skillful hands.

Niall approaches LCDR Akeno and smiles. "Speckles... good to see you. I see the fleet's keeping you busy as ever. Hopefully not too much of that is covering our asses."

Nibiru taps tin cups with him and winces back the drink. "Still not as good as the old stuff." He then puts an arm around Niall's shoulder and walks him away from earshot of the Stiletto's commanders. "The First will be working with the Stiletto's chain of command. Those ladies run that ship. Make sure everyone understands that first and foremost. Commander Qorbin was adamantly against this arrangement. Captain Tanaka wasn't as adamant, but had to be convinced as to the import and necessity of coordinating our commands. The First is in charge of the mission, but Nova can't dictate how shit gets done on that ship or how the Stiletto meets your operational needs. You'll have to work together on such matters. You've got a level head, Crash, don't let the first's egos frak this up." They catch sight of Tanaka and Fang dancing...and Qorbin fuming. "Looks like you've already repairs to see to, Lieutenant. See to it." Speckles then steps in to steal the second half of the song and dance from Cairo.

Adjust accordingly!

[Cairo]

Perception [59%]: 1d100 = 81 [+15% in Space]
JiC D20: 1d20 = 3
JiC D100: 1d100 = 98

To Cairo, he says "Congratulations Fang. I think of all of us here... I'm most jealous of you." He offers a sidelong glance to Rolyn. "It... It'll be some time before most of us have what you have here today. Until then... I suppose we'll just have to be each other's family."

Cairo raise his glass in acknowledgment, "Indeed, I guess the only people really who might have had their blood families along were probably vacationers on that Cruise-Liner right? But when in times that Setis' red desert threatens to sear calamity into our souls, the people who stand by you without flinching they are your family. This may damn well be the last we see of Rolly. They're probably getting ready to appoint him head of some department here on the Dauntless. I can still come embarrass him over dinner on occasion though."

When CDR Qorbin gets twisted up and Captain Tanaka steps in, Cairo offers his contrite and appreciative gratitude, "Thank your kindly for the gracious, merciful, and timely rescue Captain Tanaka. I had not intended to upset your XO, just try to coax a smile. Hopefully she doesn't toss me out an Airlock tomorrow ... Not sure of my former lives, but you seem to have plenty of talent yourself Captain." When Nibiru arrives to take over the dance the PA Pilot withdraws with a grin, *RHIP. Hell I never planned to even ask Tanaka to dance, just someone to spin round the dancefloor with, and the model gal's not going to give me a passing glance. Oh well.*

[Rosseyn]

Perception: 1d100 = 4/43% 58% regarding modern technology, 68% to perceiving any tactile characteristics, 83% regarding modern technology + tactile characteristics simultaneously
JIC: 1d20 = 20/1d100 = 80

At the call to attention, Rosseyn snaps to crisply and quickly. He follows the rest of their directions to the tee, as he always has. Being the first called up isn't surprising either. It's what happens next that shocks him. It takes him all the way through Captain Cardea's explanation for him to understand what's happened. Double promotion? At the appropriate time, he salutes back to the room and then takes a step back.

He watches as the rest of his crew is rewarded for their dedication and hard work. Everyone is getting what they deserve. I'm proud of my men today.

"Commander Ridatharen, your first assignment is to transfer your command to the A.D.F.S. Stiletto by 0800 tomorrow where you will work in conjunction with Captain Tanaka and her command to execute the duties assigned you by Special Operations Command."

Rosseyn salutes in response to her assignment. "Yes Captain! It has been my honor to serve you and the crew of the Dauntless, Captain!"

She then smiles and barks, "Commander Akeno, see to it that everyone has a good time before leaving my ship!"

Rosseyn smiles as she walks out. What a Captain. Once the signal is given that it's time to relax, he heads over to his crew to congratulate them all.

He offers Nova a grin and a crisp salute. "Commander. A double promotion. That's pretty fantastic... but I daresay you deserve it. Way to go, Nova."

Rosseyn salutes back to Niall. "Way to go yourself, First Lieutenant. This came as a shock to me, but I'll do anything for my people. If they need me to lead, I'll lead."

Whenever the others come by, Cairo offers a handshake and "Congratulations."

"To you as well."

"Indeed, I guess the only people really who might have had their blood families along were probably vacationers on that Cruise-Liner right? But when in times that Setis' red desert threatens to sear calamity into our souls, the people who stand by you without flinching they are your family."

"To family." Rosseyn raises his glass and looks purposefully to the folks in the 1st SOG. "And to my predecessor Lieutenant Commander Tancredi. A finer IntelOps there was not." He clinks cups with those around and then walks around the Crow's Nest to mingle.

Seeing that Speckles is currently busy, he makes a note to himself Catch up with Akeno. He might have some insight for me about this new assignment.

[Corrigon]

Perception 39% 1d100 = 83
JIC 1d100 = 44 1d20 = 10

Corrigon joins the others in a line, slightly bemused as he had literally just joined the unit and unless something strange was going on, he wasn’t going to be promoted.
As the ceremony continued and the others were promoted, he joins in congratulating the others.

When the last promotion is done being officiated, Captain Cardea calls out "Commander Ridatharen, your first assignment is to transfer your command to the A.D.F.S. Stiletto by 0800 tomorrow where you will work in conjunction with Captain Tanaka and her command to execute the duties assigned you by Special Operations Command." She then smiles and barks, "Commander Akeno, see to it that everyone has a good time before leaving my ship!" She throws those assembled one last salute, then leaves the Crow's Nest.

He returns the salute as she leaves. He hadn't been under her command for long, but he had heard good things.

‘So we’re off to the Stilleto’ he muses, as he looks around the party.

OOC Comments

Streetwise 50% 1d100 = 64
Intelligence 52% 1d100 = 24
What has Corrigon heard about the Stilleto and her crew?

As the ceremony becomes a party, he takes the opportunity to offer congratulations to each of the members of the 1st SOG. He was the newcomer and outsider, but hopefully he would be able to build some connection with them over this assignment.

He sees CJ's clash with Commander Qorbin and thinks perhaps it would be best if that was smoothed over as quickly as possible. He kisses his locket for luck before moving over to her table.
“Lance Corporal Corrigon Malath, newly assigned to the 1st SOG," he introduces himself to Commander Qorbin of the Stiletto, with his usual charming and friendly smile, "I just wanted to introduce myself before we came onboard. I'm sure the lieutenant commander will ensure that the 1st SOG work in the correct manner with you and the crew of the ADFS Stiletto and if there is anything I can do to help facilitate that, please let me know. For instance, would you care for a refill?"

OOC Comments

Charm/Impress 55% 1d100 = 38
Invoke Trust/Intimidate 60% 1d100 = 57

[Halko]

Percep 39%: 1d100 = 30
JIC: 1d20 = 19 1d100 = 74

Through out the ceremony, Halko keeps a smooth demeanor as waits to see what is going on. When his name is called he goes forward. His face twitches just a bit as he gets promoted to Staff Sergeant, but he makes it back in line without incident. After the ceremony has run its course, Halko lets out the breath he was holding and shows an expression like he just dodged a bullet. Not that he's ever had to actually do that.

When the ceremony is completed and the Crow's Nest turns back into a place to cut loose a little, Halko hears Niall's questions about getting an Eye of Tangarat tattoo. He grins a bit and says, "You know, that might not be that bad of an idea. Though we might have some trouble finding someone to do the job and then there's my powers to contend with. Might have to cut it in or maybe a brand." He doesn't look too happy with his own suggestions, but if he really wants to start up the tradition again, those might be his only options.

Being a bit uncharacteristically formal, Halko says to Niall, "If you will excuse me Sir. I'm gonna go send a message and invite some friends down to join us."

Halko makes his way back over to one side, finds a communication terminal and types in a short message;


To: Jezebel "Temptress" Faux, 3LT

I haven't heard back from you, so I don't know if you're even on the Dauntless right now. But if this message finds you in good time, we're down in the Crow's Nest. The 1st SOG has suffered a string of promotions and we're shipping out at 0800. I'd like to see you before I leave, but I understand if its not possible.

Your squad is welcome to join you, if you like.

See you soon,
Staff Sergeant Halko

Halko knows its not very romantic but he also knows that the message is likely to be reviewed by ship's security, especially after the coup. He hits send and then turns around to see Fang dancing with the Stilletto's Captain. His mouth hangs open for a moment as he crosses back over to where most of the 1st SOG is milling about.

Letting the officers get into their own trouble, Halko alters course and goes to intercept Ego. Walking up to the Corporal and Commander Qorbin, Halko gives the Commander a semi formal nod, "Ma'am, it will be a pleasure to work aboard your ship with you. If you even need help with the 1st SOG's officers, please let me know." He offers her another nod and finishes with, "I'll take the Corporal here and we'll get out of your way."

Halko nudges Ego to the side and mutters, "Best not agitate the Stiletto's 1st officer any more than necessary or she'll have us sleeping next to the reactor. As is Nova is now their boss," he waggles his hand side to side, "kinda. The SOC basically just assumed command of the Stiletto. Though they still get to determine the how. The SOC, and Nova as its rep, now tells them what to do. I'm sure everything will be okay once they see how we operate, but right now is not the time to rub their noses in it." Halko nudges Ego towards the bar, "Now lets go get a drink and if my luck holds," and not getting bumped to L.T. is lucky, "we might be getting some company soon."

Seeing that Speckles has cut in on Cairo's dance partner, Halko makes a slight detour towards Cairo and says, "Let me buy you a drink." Throwing and arm around Fang's shoulders, Halko guides his over to the bar. He gives the squad's most junior member a grin as they reach the bar. "With all the big brass here, lets see if they broke out the good stuff." If Fang or Ego break from Halko plan, the new Staff Sergeant just lets them go and gives a little shake of his head.

[Niall]

Perception ☞ 36% 1d100 = 43 (FAIL)

JIC 1d20 = 12
1d100 = 11

"If you will excuse me Sir. I'm gonna go send a message and invite some friends down to join us."

"Sir?" Niall looks at him like a crazy person as he walks away to text his friends. Teenagers these days.

"The First will be working with the Stiletto's chain of command. Those ladies run that ship. Make sure everyone understands that first and foremost. Commander Qorbin was adamantly against this arrangement. Captain Tanaka wasn't as adamant, but had to be convinced as to the import and necessity of coordinating our commands. The First is in charge of the mission, but Nova can't dictate how shit gets done on that ship or how the Stiletto meets your operational needs. You'll have to work together on such matters. You've got a level head, Crash, don't let the first's egos frak this up. Looks like you've already repairs to see to, Lieutenant. See to it."

Niall nods and sets down his now-empty cup before heading over to Commander Qorbin, to see Halko intercepting Ego. Speaking of ego's...

Military Etiquette ☞ 80% 1d100 = 86 (FAIL)

Niall offers Qorbin a warm smile as he approaches. He snaps her a crisp salute. Maybe a bit of overkill in this setting but... she needs to have her authority recognized. "Commander Qorbin, I'm Niall Zeddeus." He looks obviously toward CJ with a pained expression on his face. "I see you've met Fang. I apologize... he's a good soldier, but even the best need to let off steam now and then. He meant no disrespect."

He turns away from CJ to face Qorbin anew. "Let me just say I've heard only good things about the Stiletto, and I know that's because you and the Captain run her like clockwork. I look forward to serving aboard her." He turns and looks at Nova, before turning back to Qorbin. "Our leader, Nova, is a good officer. He... does what duty calls upon him to do, without reservation. If you have concerns about the 1st, he'll see that they're addressed."

"In the meantime, I am a poor substitute for Nova, but if you need anything, please let me know and I'll do my best to handle it."

[Cairo]

Perception [59%]: 1d100 = 81 [+15% in Space]
JiC D20: 1d20 = 3
JiC D100: 1d100 = 98

Seeing that Speckles has cut in on Cairo's dance partner, Halko makes a slight detour towards Cairo and says, "Let me buy you a drink." Throwing and arm around Fang's shoulders, Halko guides his over to the bar. He gives the squad's most junior member a grin as they reach the bar. "With all the big brass here, lets see if they broke out the good stuff." If Fang or Ego break from Halko plan, the new Staff Sergeant just lets them go and gives a little shake of his head.

"That sounds like a plan Sarge. If not, we can save folks from terrible liquor by throwing ourselves bodily into the way ... taking the proverbial grenade, for their own good so to speak." Cairo offers a wry grin as they walk but figures he might as well shift towards the least offensive topic possible, "So while we were out, they were tinkering with my Wardog. Pulled out the heavy beam lasers and subbed in some Marine lasers. They should cycle twice as fast, but they took out 80% of the ammunition on the railguns ... really not sure about that. What was with those harnesses?"

[Halko]

[rolls held]

Halko grins and shakes his head after hearing Cairo's current plan for the evening, "Maybe a couple, but we still have to be up and on the Stiletto by 0800 tomorrow morning."

He looks over at Ego, wonder if the new guy here is gonna fit in well with the rest of us? "So, looks like you signed up just in time for the party. Come on." He urges Ego over to the bar with Cairo and him then turns to Cairo, "What, oh, the harnesses. I don't know. Seemed to have more attachment points and some sort of integrated first aid thing." He shifts gears back to talking about the Wardog, "Um Okay, why'd they do that to your Wardog? I can see changing out the lasers but that couldn't have needed all that room from dumping the ammo space. They better not start fraking with mine."

When they get to the bar, Halko motions for two drinks for everyone that came with him.

[Cairo]

Rolls Held Over

Cairo offers Halko a sheepish grin, "Truthfully I probably gave the techs too much free reign before we left. I asked them to install some Vibro-blades to upgrade the close quarters capabilities, to switch the Marine Lasers in, because the Standard beam cannons take longer to fire (1 APM instead of 2 APM), and to look at upgrading the armor plating (AR) ... I think they just got carried away since they had something to invest time in. Maybe a creative outlet in stressful times ..."

CJ has no real interest in drinking, whatever they're serving, but thanks Halko and the bartender as he slowly nurses what's delivered. "New harness should be good, and when you go Boom, you seem to come back with clothes which I am sure the televised audience appreciated, so you can use one too."

[Ryden]

Perception: 86%/1d100 = 97
JIC: 1d20 = 6, 1d100 = 73

Ryden stands to attention when it is called. He’s proud of the work they’ve done. To think he’d be an officer at all is beyond what he’d hoped. Technically he could have gotten a couple of Diplomas of Mastery. He’d earned a couple of Diplomas of Expertise [think Bachelor’s degree] while in training. They helped him bypass some requirements that normally hold out Third Tiers from spec forces. He’d intended to gain those Mastery degrees, plus a couple of PhDs. But the destruction of their education system, planet, culture, and people had ended such designs. Without PhDs, he’d never be considered for command rank, let alone the highest authority within the Arismal military.

But here he was, a mustang officer. Like his mentor had said, in the special forces it was actions that mattered, not birth or family. He smiles wide when his new rank is pinned on.

As the ceremony ends, CJ speaks up.

The PA Pilot turns to face Brainiac and offers a bemused salute, "2nd Lieutenant Hunter. If we're shipping out in the AM, well I had not realized we would be leaving and sort of mentioned to Doc Links you might have something for him. Not sure if your care-packages have all made it through quarantine yet, but if his did, you might want to kick by and make your drop before we get shuffled off. Or I can handle if you are busy doing something with, or for ..." CJ visibly struggles to find Ryden's girlfriend's name, "Miwa?"

“I appreciate it, but had intended to knock out early anyway. Miwa is off ship on a mission. She’s in the Second.”

Ryden goes back to the table and begins writing Miwa a letter. It’s a first draft and he is still working on it while the others are drinking, dancing and making fools of themselves.

[Augur]

Conditions:
Local Time: Day 54, 1900
Location: A.D.F.S. Dauntless

As Captain Tanaka steps in, Cairo offers his contrite and appreciative gratitude, "Thank your kindly for the gracious, merciful, and timely rescue, Captain Tanaka. I had not intended to upset your XO, just try to coax a smile. Hopefully she doesn't toss me out an airlock tomorrow. Not sure of my former lives, but you seem to have plenty of talent yourself Captain."

Captain Tanaka smirks. "It's all in the genetics, Lieutenant. While the other girls were taking dance lessons, I was studying astrophysics or logging flight time in a sim." Speckles then steps in to steal the second half of the song and dance from Cairo.

Corrigon has heard little about the Stiletto itself, but recalls that her Captain is young for her rank and position and got there through extraordinary effort and a seeming obsession with being the best fleet pilot in the A.D.F. Scuttlebutt has it that she has lived up to her own ambitions. The Stiletto's XO, on the other hand, is well known as a hard ass (unsurprising, as this is a role most XO's take up in the performance of the duties); that she came up through the ranks of the fleet infantry makes her position highly unusual given that fleet infantry rarely make it into such positions given the nature of their expertise. Corrigon sees CJ's clash with Commander Qorbin, kisses his locket for luck, and heads to her table. “Lance Corporal Corrigon Malath, newly assigned to the 1st SOG. I just wanted to introduce myself before we came onboard. I'm sure the lieutenant commander will ensure that the 1st SOG work in the correct manner with you and the crew of the ADFS Stiletto and if there is anything I can do to help facilitate that, please let me know. For instance, would you care for a refill?"

She seems to look right through him. "No, Corporal, I wouldn't. I am having this drink out of respect for the customs of the ceremony. I'd suggest you not partake too much either given tomorrow's itinerary." She sights his rating insignia and seems to soften ever so slightly. In a lower voice she says, "You don't have to live up to the stereotypes of your M.O.S., shipmate. Just do your job, do it better than anyone, and do it by the book, and you can go far."

Halko makes his way to a communications terminal and types in a short message:
To: Jezebel "Temptress" Faux, 3LT

I haven't heard back from you, so I don't know if you're even on the Dauntless right now. But if this message finds you in good time, we're down in the Crow's Nest. The 1st SOG has suffered a string of promotions and we're shipping out at 0800. I'd like to see you before I leave, but I understand if its not possible.

Your squad is welcome to join you, if you like.

See you soon,
SSGT Halko
Halko's message to Jezebel gets delivered, but he gets an automated response in return.
"INFOSEC: I'm currently unavailable and unable to disclose my whereabouts. Leave me a message. If this is Candy, the answer is still an emphatic NO, and I told you all I could, so frak off."

Halko then walks over to the Corporal and Commander Qorbin. He gives the Commander a semi formal nod, "Ma'am, it will be a pleasure to work aboard your ship with you. If you even need help with the 1st SOG's officers, please let me know. I'll take the Corporal here and we'll get out of your way."

Commander Qorbin actually smiles slightly as Halko butts in. He notices her rating insignia matches his own. "Hu-ah!" she calls out lightly in agreement and appreciation. She addresses Corrigon, but her eyes don't leave Halko's when she speaks. "You've got a solid wingman here, as it were, Malath. He'll watch your back. Carry on smartly."

Niall offers Qorbin a warm smile and snaps her a crisp salute. "Commander Qorbin, I'm Niall Zeddeus. I see you've met Fang. I apologize...he's a good soldier, but even the best need to let off steam now and then. He meant no disrespect." Niall turns away from CJ to face Qorbin anew. "Let me just say I've heard only good things about the Stiletto, and I know that's because you and the Captain run her like clockwork. I look forward to serving aboard her. Our leader, Nova, is a good officer. He...does what duty calls upon him to do, without reservation. If you have concerns about the 1st, he'll see that they're addressed. In the meantime, I am a poor substitute for Nova, but if you need anything, please let me know and I'll do my best to handle it."

She looks Niall up and down, clearly sizing him up. She apparently doesn't assess him as much being worth her time. She simply nods curtly in response to his olive branch.

Niall is saved from an embarrassing silence as Isabela Perchuhi ropes one of his arms within her own and escorts him towards a vacant section of the bar. "Lieutenant Zeddeus, was it? I seem to recall a hit piece Lani Andral did on you some years back. That was so distasteful. I've always hated that brand of 'journalism.' So what do you do in the first SOG? Mind you, I'm no journalist. Quite the contrary, though the ignorant would sometimes call me a 'pundit.' As though analysts with actual opinions of their own are somehow related to those swine who thrive on indiscretion." She lets out an incredulous utterance before flashing him a disarming smile. Niall has to blink hard to retain his grasp on his own sense of self. She's unlike any woman with whom he's ever so much as shared a word. She is dazzling - alight; it is agony to comprehend her beauty in a glance.

Rúni Aleš takes a seat beside Ryden and says nothing. Ryden's barely even aware that there is now someone sitting beside him. (Crit Fail Perception)

After the ceremony is complete, Rosseyn once again has to clamp down on his awareness of everything in the ship clamoring with electronic life, and the tactile sensation of the fine grit from the ship's recirculation system (dead skin, fiber particulate from uniforms and bedding, everything) covering every horizontal surface. He notes the departure of the Dauntless' captain nin his own particular way, observes as a couple of his men flub their social graces and a few seem to unwittingly excel in the same efforts, and perceives how quickly time seems to move when the First Special Operations Group wasn't under fire or in pursuit of some strategic goal for the fleet or tactical goal for the unit's very survival.

[Niall]

Perception ☞ 36% 1d100 = 7 (SUCCESS)

JIC 1d20 = 16
1d100 = 64

Niall finds himself put severely off-balance by Isabella Perchuhi's beauty and charm, and finds it difficult to organize his thoughts.

"Lieutenant Zeddeus, was it? I seem to recall a hit piece Lani Andral did on you some years back. That was so distasteful. I've always hated that brand of 'journalism.' So what do you do in the first SOG? Mind you, I'm no journalist. Quite the contrary, though the ignorant would sometimes call me a 'pundit.' As though analysts with actual opinions of their own are somehow related to those swine who thrive on indiscretion."

Niall smiles, blushing despite himself. "Lani made her bread and butter following me around for a while. My parents hated her, but we always admired her dedication to getting the story. I'm a, uh, diagnostic engineer. I serve as the field armorer and de facto medic for the 1st. I have a power that allows me to, um, reassemble damaged things." Niall clears his throat. "I... was never as keen on politics as my mother, but I recall she used to watch your interviews whenever you were on. She'd found you quite insightful, I think."

My god... this woman is stunning... how is it even possible to be that beautiful?

Despite himself, Niall tries clumsily to smile his winningest smile at her.

Charm ☞ 20% 1d100 = 31 (FAIL)

"So. Uh. What... what're you doing with the fleet now? I mean... I know how you got here, but what... what've they got you doing?"

[Cairo]

Perception [59%]: 1d100 = 60 [+15% in Space]
JiC D20: 1d20 = 9
JiC D100: 1d100 = 88

As Niall is snagged by a former supermodel to have a private chat, CJ shakes his head with a wry grin, *They all like that one. Must be the soft-helpless baby-Thergal impression he gives off. Too damn bad, I bet she can dance.* Finding that Halko and New-Kid don't seem to have much else to say in response, the newly minted 2nd Lt shuffles off to the latrine lightly half-humming-half-singing a song and thinking of Kalla, the girl who'd gotten him tossed from the Academy the first time through, "The first time I felt the magic of her kiss, was under a Cerulean moon. Sweet Southern style, tender but a little wild, for me no other love would ever do. Her voice is like the whisper of a warm wind through the vines, her smile can reach the soul of any man, her ... something something ... nah nah nah nahhh ... with a touch as soft as lace, there ain't nothing like a woman with Southern grace ..."

[Halko]

Percep 39%: 1d100 = 38
JIC: 1d20 = 12 1d100 = 57

Commander Qorbin actually smiles slightly as Halko butts in. He notices her rating insignia matches his own. "Hu-ah!" she calls out lightly in agreement and appreciation. She addresses Corrigon, but her eyes don't leave Halko's when she speaks. "You've got a solid wingman here, as it were, Malath. He'll watch your back. Carry on smartly."

Seeing her rating insignia matches his own, Halko gives a small grin, Oh yes. Not sure I understand how Fleet Infantry came to be the first officer on a space ship, but this will definitely be a good ship to crew on.


At the bar;

Cairo offers Halko a sheepish grin, "Truthfully I probably gave the techs too much free reign before we left. I asked them to install some Vibro-blades to upgrade the close quarters capabilities, to switch the Marine Lasers in, because the Standard beam cannons take longer to fire, and to look at upgrading the armor plating ... I think they just got carried away since they had something to invest time in. Maybe a creative outlet in stressful times ..."

Halko furrow's his brows as he considers the tactical ramifications of the modified Wardog, "It'll take a little getting used to the changes. Maybe you should set the techs to building a hand held gunpod. Add a little of the ranged ability back into the mix without another round of modifications." He sips on whatever the drink is the barkeep delivered as he continues to think.

CJ has no real interest in drinking, whatever they're serving, but thanks Halko and the bartender as he slowly nurses what's delivered. "New harness should be good, and when you go Boom, you seem to come back with clothes which I am sure the televised audience appreciated, so you can use one too."

"HUH," Halko chortles as the new thought is introduced, "You know, I don't think I eve realized that. So, new power lets me blast off in jumps, add a bang to my hand to hand, blow myself up and somehow reform good as new without damaging my clothes and gear." He chuckles a bit, "Good for that last bit. I'd hate to have come back naked. Especially on the fight show." He grins, then says thoughtfully, "I wonder if these new powers we're exhibiting are because of the stress of our current situation?" His rhetorical question lingers as he goes silent in thought, letting Cairo slip away to do his business.

[Ryden]

Perception: 86%/1d100 = 52
JIC: 1d20 = 13, 1d100 = 2

As Ryden finishes his letter draft and saves it, and looks up to find his intellectual equal at the table. He can't hide the surprise, "Mr. Aleš, how are you aside from trying to stay out of all of that?" He kicks his eyes towards the cutting up military folks. Ryden was feeling contemplative. He indeed did need to finish his rounds, particularly to Doc Links. Its his last party at the place he met Miwa, and all he can do is wonder about the new challenges ahead of them on their new assignment. He kicks his eyes back to the elder genius and offers him his attention. "So escorting Ms. Perchuhi is certainly a pleasant, if at times interesting task for an evening. Professional courtesy or..." he leaves off the other option with no inflection or implied outcome. If he was in a relationship with the former pundit, he could see it. She is certainly one of the more intelligent women around, and like himself, that is likely the primary attractive element. That she is drop dead gorgeous would be of secondary concern, though none the less pleasant. Of course they could just be friends or teammates. Hence why his question holds no implications of any sort. Thinking to his own team, he could hardly have ever thought he might one day be brothers in arms with the heirs of two separate families of power on Arismal. And Miwa chasing him was never even on his radar, though now he can't help but feel her absence.

[Corrigon]

Perception 39% 1d100 = 42
JIC 1d20 = 18 1d100 = 7

Corrigon has heard little about the Stiletto itself, but recalls that her Captain is young for her rank and position and got there through extraordinary effort and a seeming obsession with being the best fleet pilot in the A.D.F. Scuttlebutt has it that she has lived up to her own ambitions. The Stiletto's XO, on the other hand, is well known as a hard ass (unsurprising, as this is a role most XO's take up in the performance of the duties); that she came up through the ranks of the fleet infantry makes her position highly unusual given that fleet infantry rarely make it into such positions given the nature of their expertise.

So, that’s somebody to emulate. A lot of hard work and a well deserved reputation he mused to himself before going over.

he seems to look right through him. "No, Corporal, I wouldn't. I am having this drink out of respect for the customs of the ceremony. I'd suggest you not partake too much either given tomorrow's itinerary." She sights his rating insignia and seems to soften ever so slightly. In a lower voice she says, "You don't have to live up to the stereotypes of your M.O.S., shipmate. Just do your job, do it better than anyone, and do it by the book, and you can go far."

Corrigon nods his head “I’ve not received the itinerary for tomorrow. An early start I would imagine."
Corrigon smiles at her quieter comment, a little glint in his eye, "occasionally it can be useful. its what everyone expects and helps people get along."

Halko then walks over to the Corporal and Commander Qorbin. He gives the Commander a semi formal nod, "Ma'am, it will be a pleasure to work aboard your ship with you. If you even need help with the 1st SOG's officers, please let me know. I'll take the Corporal here and we'll get out of your way."Commander Qorbin actually smiles slightly as Halko butts in. He notices her rating insignia matches his own. "Hu-ah!" she calls out lightly in agreement and appreciation. She addresses Corrigon, but her eyes don't leave Halko's when she speaks. "You've got a solid wingman here, as it were, Malath. He'll watch your back. Carry on smartly."

“Thank you Sir,” Corrigon nods politely as Halko then drags him away

Halko nudges Ego to the side and mutters, "Best not agitate the Stiletto's 1st officer any more than necessary or she'll have us sleeping next to the reactor. As is Nova is now their boss," he waggles his hand side to side, "kinda. The SOC basically just assumed command of the Stiletto. Though they still get to determine the how. The SOC, and Nova as its rep, now tells them what to do. I'm sure everything will be okay once they see how we operate, but right now is not the time to rub their noses in it." Halko nudges Ego towards the bar, "Now lets go get a drink and if my luck holds," and not getting bumped to L.T. is lucky, "we might be getting some company soon."

Corrigon raises an eyebrow at that comment, inwardly thinking Halko misjudged that a little.

"Actually, I think she was far better with me than she was with others." he comments, "though she liked you. Not romantically, but certainly a lot of respect there. I think she may be easier to work with than initial she looked.""

He looks over at Ego, wonder if the new guy here is gonna fit in well with the rest of us? "So, looks like you signed up just in time for the party. Come on." He urges Ego over to the bar with Cairo and him then turns to Cairo, "What, oh, the harnesses. I don't know. Seemed to have more attachment points and some sort of integrated first aid thing." He shifts gears back to talking about the Wardog, "Um Okay, why'd they do that to your Wardog? I can see changing out the lasers but that couldn't have needed all that room from dumping the ammo space. They better not start fraking with mine."

“About 50% more attachments over the normal ones. I counted them. Emergency injection pack, picks when your vital signs are in distress and administers nanites to repair damage. Not going to help with diseases, but if we got shot, least it will keep most of us alive, provided you in a form that can actually be affected by it.” From any reaction, he shrugs, “I read the manual, such as it was.”

Cairo offers Halko a sheepish grin, "Truthfully I probably gave the techs too much free reign before we left. I asked them to install some Vibro-blades to upgrade the close quarters capabilities, to switch the Marine Lasers in, because the Standard beam cannons take longer to fire (1 APM instead of 2 APM), and to look at upgrading the armor plating (AR) ... I think they just got carried away since they had something to invest time in. Maybe a creative outlet in stressful times ..."

Corrigon nods to the bartender and a drink is pushed over to him; unlike the others, I’ve been in here a lot more recently. They know what I like.

As Cairo complains about the changes to his armour, Corrigon thinks about this and what the armour was now set-up to be.
“Has it drastically altered your functionality? Sounds like it has been turned into a close combat set-up. Was that what you were hoping for?"

He watches Nial get picked up and Cairo wander off, so he nods to Halko before he goes over to see the people from the Profit Motive and mingles with them for a bit.
“Hello, how have you been?” as he catches up with them.

OOC Comments

This wasn’t picked up before so I’ll make another attempt

[Augur]

Conditions:
Local Time: Day 54, 2200
Location: A.D.F.S. Dauntless

The 1st SOG learns through discussions over drinks with Captain Tanaka, Commander Qorbin, Wanda, Rolyn, Rúni Aleš, and Isabela Perchuhi that the lot of them will be transferring to the A.D.F.S. Stiletto in the morning. Niall learns that Isabela is to accompany the 1st SOG in their interactions with other ship captains. She is acting as a political adviser and analyst on behalf of Captain Cardea and the other ship captains, and is gauging the political situation within the fleet and among its captains. Basically, her job is to gather intelligence on the captains of the fleet to try and provide an analytic summary of the political landscape. At present, there are no formal political parties per se, but rather a general outlook on what the fleet ought to do to best preserve the Arismal race and society. She expects that political divisions will grow, calcify, and be formalized within the space of a few more weeks. Her summary so far is sketchy at best.

The serious contenders for Admiral/battle group leader are:

• CPT Zoi Cardea: A.D.F.S. Dauntless, Unity Party
• CDR Veljko Jasso: A.D.F.S. Sovereign, Phoenix Party
• CPT Nachum Anaru: A.D.F.S. Invincible, Shrike Party

The political landscape can best be summarized as follows:

• Phoenix Party: Find a new world to colonize far from the Atorian border and rebuild their civilization
• Shrike Party: Take the fight to the Atorians; undermine and halt what seems to be another wave of expansion by any means necessary
• Unity Party: Join the Federation of Allied Races, and both relocate/rebuild and use the A.D.F. to stop the Atorian expansion

They also learn that Rúni is hitching a ride to Chandrakant to coordinate logistics for the fleet's resupply operation in that system. So once they drop him off on the A.D.F.S. Profit Motive, they're unlikely to see him again soon. Wanda Coxand and Rolyn Xanreys are present to accompany the 1st SOG to the Stiletto as well. They have already been debriefed by the CO & XO of the Dauntless. Rolyn is to remain the security attache to Wanda who will be accompanying the 1st SOG/Stiletto in case there is need for her diplomatic skills & connections, and in the hopes that the A.D.F. (presently undecided and leaderless) will pursue diplomatic contacts within FAR. She is very interested in finding and contacting the one other FAR diplomatic contact with whom the 1st SOG has had a previous encounter: Jayda Montag.

---

Wanda and Rolyn are the first ones to call it a night shortly after 1930, but not before Cairo leaves to wander the passageways with a full bladder and a mild buzz. There being no head in the Crow's Nest, he invariably finds his way back to the berthing, uses the head, and succumbs to the lure of his rack. Ryden determines that Rúni Aleš was just accompanying Isabela Perchuhi as a matter of courtesy to the Captain who wanted them both present at the ceremony so they could get to know the people with whom they'd be traveling in the near future. Not long after the ceremony is over, Rúni Aleš bids Ryden and Isabela good night and retires for the remainder of the evening. Isabela continues to schmooze a bit, no doubt gleaning useful knowledge from seemingly casual conversation. Niall suspects he's being maneuvered by the lady. Every time Rosseyn is in sight, she kind of steers them in his direction, but Rosseyn is like a one-eyed Shrike in that he never seems to spot the finest target but instead flits from small group to small group, being his usual charming self. Captain Tanaka and Commander Qorbin leave after 2000, the Captain a little tipsy, and the Commander a little more terse because of it. After they leave, it's a short while before the first SOG returns to their berthing to retire for the night and to prep for the early morning and big transition ahead of them.

[/Episode 16: Change of Command]

Continue posting to Episode 17: Return to Chandrakant.