PT 014 Main

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Previously...

[7:05 PM]

After spending multiple days floating around an irradiated plane in search of survivors, a jump unfortunately went wrong.  This resulted in a reaction that shot through the ship, separating the composite beings.

[7:05 PM]

Namely, Duo and Xho, who you learned was carrying the souls of her dead classmates in her for years.

[7:07 PM]

While Vlad was eventually able to cleave the nine other spirits bonded to Xho, Duo was left severed.  One kept safe and mobile in Theo's homunculus and Dalarei...well...just left by himself.  This has clearly left them both emotionally hurt.

[7:07 PM]

Grax has now called everyone to the bridge to discuss the next plan to save Duo.

[7:08 PM]

Grax: "Once we have re-entered the Joined's plane, we will need a diplomacy team to meet with them and discuss a means of rejoining Duo.  They remain cautious around us, so...we need to handle this carefully."

Xho06/19/2020

nods.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Grax: "Commander, you will be joining me, obviously.  As will the Professor and Sage.  You all have a good rapport with these people after helping apprehend Gottfried."

Xho06/19/2020

nods.

[7:11 PM]

I feel our chances are very good.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Grax: "Dr. Viex will also be joining us.  They are monitoring the situation involving our crewmember."

Theo06/19/2020

Are we bringing Dalarei and One?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Grax: "Naturally.  Duo should be able to dictate the terms of their own rejoining."

Theo06/19/2020

Just making sure.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Grax: "We will also be bringing some security with us.  Professor, I think you'll be familiar with one of them at least."

[7:13 PM]

At this point, Targal, the goliath officer who was tasked with watching Theo enters.

[7:14 PM]

He does not seem happy about the assignment.

Theo06/19/2020

I thought I fired you.

Xho06/19/2020

He has returned to his usual security duties, Doctor.

Theo06/19/2020

I don't need you as an assistant anymore. I have a whole crew now.

[7:15 PM]

Oh, all right.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Targal grumbles.  "Captain, I request to be reassigned back to guarding the prisoner."

[7:15 PM]

Captain: "After the mission, Mr. Targal."

Xho06/19/2020

Your duty is to protect Duo and the rest of us.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Targal: "Understood, Commander."

Sage06/19/2020

will pass targal a warm pastry

Xho06/19/2020

That does include our chief engineer.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Targal takes the pastry.  "I am aware of the extent of my orders, Commander.  Do not worry.  The pirate's life is in good hands."

[7:18 PM]

Viktor also enters.  "Request to join the security detail, Captain."

[7:18 PM]

Grax: "...Viktor, you're not officially a part of--"

Xho06/19/2020

I am certain you meant to say "the doctor's life" is in good hands.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Viktor: "Request to join the security detail, sir.  My people have strong ties to the Ascended.  I'd be useful to have."

Theo06/19/2020

I'm pretty sure he didn't, Commander.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Viktor's wearing his mask, btw.

Sage06/19/2020

Viktor has  had more interactions with them it could be beneficial

USS Adventure06/19/2020

The Captain looks at Sage, then back to Viktor.  He nods.  "Permission granted."

Xho06/19/2020

I am certain he did. Did you not, Mr. Targal.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Targal: "...of course, Commander."

Theo06/19/2020

Huh.

Xho06/19/2020

Excellent.

[7:20 PM]

eyes Viktor, but says nothing.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((With his mask on, he's inscrutable.))

[7:22 PM]

Grax: "Lieutenant Duma, you will have the ship.  Dr. Williamson will be monitoring us from here, making sure we're all safe."

[7:22 PM]

Grax: "One way or another, we are leaving here with Officer Duo."

Sage06/19/2020

Indeed

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Grax orders everyone to positions and you ready the coordinates to the Ascended's world.

[7:26 PM]

3...2...1...ENGAGE!

[7:26 PM]

And you jump!

Xho06/19/2020

actually does close her eyes and stop breathing for the jump this time.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

After jumping and establishing a docking place and time with the disgruntled Customer Service employee, you guys get ready to teleport down.

[7:30 PM]

As you do, Dalarei and One enter.  One keeps trying to leap in the robot body, which is awkward and unwieldy.  Dalarei just stays very quiet, but tries to maintain and orderly posture and appearance.

[7:31 PM]

You all are beamed down, this time to a passageway right by the main councilor base.  There, you're greeted by a gnomish man with black hair in an updo and a thick black mustache.

[7:32 PM]

Belos: "How's it going?  Don't think I met all of ya, last time.  I'm Councillor Belos, Master of Coin."

[7:32 PM]

((And yes, he is Joined.))

[7:32 PM]

Grax: "You got our message?  We want to meet with...well...whoever we need to meet with."

[7:33 PM]

Belos: "We've heard of your situation.  Councilor Dunben and Headmaster Hunter are inside to talk about your...uh...situation."

[7:33 PM]

Belos suddenly seems very uncomfortable looking at Dalarei and One.

Xho06/19/2020

takes One's hand.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Belos: "Councillor Faertala may also join us.  He's Master of the Arcane, so...some overlap.  But he's very busy and not always around these days."

[7:35 PM]

One squeezes it.

[7:35 PM]

Grax nods.

[7:36 PM]

Belos: "We are just waiting for another client, so if you can just--"

[7:36 PM]

Ava: "I thought we'd meet again."

[7:36 PM]

Ava, the seer from the Oni's base comes down the steps of the council building and towards you all.

[7:37 PM]

Ava: "I see you have sorted yourself a bit, commander.  ...and one of you is quite out of sorts."

Xho06/19/2020

We are hoping you can help.

Theo06/19/2020

waves.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Ava: "...possibly.  I was just sorting to another matter.  I would happily advocate for you, if you desire.  Your goals seem most practical and amiable to me."

Xho06/19/2020

will let Grax answer that.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Viktor, btw, is standing at straight attention and working hard to not make eye contact with Ava.  Even through his mask, you get that he holds her in great respect...and maybe a little fear.

[7:40 PM]

Grax: "...more the merrier, I always say."

[7:41 PM]

Belos guides you in.  As he does, Grax follows, along with all of you, I presume.

Xho06/19/2020

follows, trying to stay very neutral.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Dr. Viex is studying Ava very closely as you walk.  ...like...personal space closely.

Xho06/19/2020

doesn't say anything. Ava would probably object if she had an objection, right?

[7:43 PM]

does squeeze One's hand reassuringly.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((Maybe))

Xho06/19/2020

is certainly not repressing her anger with Ava at not telling her sooner she had nine dead people floating around her, or anything like that! Definitely not that. No.

1

USS Adventure06/19/2020

As you enter the chamber room, which is...quiet.  Very quiet and clearly much emptier than normal, given the wide auditorium set-up.

Theo06/19/2020

has been doting over the homunc,ulus a bit, making sure it's working as it should.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

There are, however, three other figures in the room whom you might recognize (I don't remember if you guys ever officially met the council).  There's Hunter, the Ascended tiefling, previously a teacher, now headmaster.  There's Dunben, an Ascended female gnome (I think I called Belos a gnome before too, but he's actually a halfling) with bright pink face tattoos, brighter pink hair and a plunging neckline.  And, lastly, you see an Ascended High Elven woman, Trienna, wearing a flowing pink dress, with purple hair and a number of face piercings.

[7:48 PM]

They all watch you enter with varying degrees of interest, but they then all focus in on Dalarei.

[7:48 PM]

Hunter: "Which of you is the medic?"

Xho06/19/2020

indicates Viex.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Viex nods.

Sage06/19/2020

(( 23 insight just what Sage could read of them when they focused on Dalarei))

Xho06/19/2020

((You know, that's a good idea.))

[7:50 PM]

((Only a 9 from me, but I tried. Also, I'm paying more attention to One right now.))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Sage There's a high degree of concern and interest in Dalarei.  They seem to be viewing him like a car they just heard was in an accident.  Analyzing him for...something.

[7:54 PM]

Hunter: "What tests have you performed?  Any worth even mentioning?"

[7:54 PM]

Viex: "...I took a heart rate and blood pressure.  Then moved to--"

[7:54 PM]

Hunter: "Useless.  What did you find in the brain?"

[7:54 PM]

Viex: "...we took a full CAT scan for--"

[7:55 PM]

Hunter by this point has grabbed Dalarei by the face and looks right into his eyes.

[7:55 PM]

Hunter: "No forced dilation.  The host is not concussed."

Theo06/19/2020

Even I know that's a personal space thing.

Sage06/19/2020

So you have seen something like this before?

Xho06/19/2020

We do acknowledge this is not our area of expertise, just as necromancy is not yours.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Viex grabs Hunter by the wrist with a withering look.  There's an uncomfortable moment as they all look at each other.

[7:56 PM]

Eventually, Hunter breaks from Dalarei and turns to Sage.

Xho06/19/2020

Apologies. We are protective of our patients. And our crew.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Hunter: "We have had the procedure undone before.  At times, even unwillingly.  For a while, people made an attempt to steal the Ascended souls from selected applicants."

Xho06/19/2020

It is difficult to be diplomatic when someone you care for is suffering.

[7:58 PM]

... and that is repugnant.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Dunben: "It was.  ...unfortunately...even those cases are not perfect matches to yours."

Xho06/19/2020

It seems to have been a natural phenomenon for us, yes.

[8:00 PM]

Or at least, a widespread unnatural one.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Trienna: "We do have records of Ascended being severed in the past through stronger means.  Those records indicate the process to be not just emotionally harmful, but physically taxing and even dangerous."

[8:01 PM]

Hunter: "And they were already bonded through unstable means."

[8:02 PM]

Hunter: "You had a back alley surgery, then another to undo it.  And now you want it done again.  At some point, the boy will break."

[8:02 PM]

Dalarei: "I can take it."

[8:02 PM]

Hunter: "You would say that."

Xho06/19/2020

Is it possible to calculate the odds?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Hunter: "Yes...but more importantly, there are ways to greatly reduce them."

Xho06/19/2020

Excellent. What needs to be done?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Belos: "Get a new One.  We add yours to the pool, give him to a fresh student under better circumstances.  And your officer rebonds with a different One with more experience who knows how to enter without being as forceful."

[8:04 PM]

Belos: "Everybody wins."

Xho06/19/2020

No.

[8:05 PM]

That is not what he wants.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

One: "We are Duo.  Swapping us out makes us not Duo."

Xho06/19/2020

((20 insight to see if they have ulterior motives here.))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Xho It is difficult to tell from most of them...but Belos and Trienna seem more anxious to do it and, you suspect, may have another angle on this.  Hunter is a bit harder to read and Dunben just seems concerned for everyone's safety.  However, it's all speculative.

[8:08 PM]

Dunben: "One...you do not even have an identity of your own, yet.  You're still young.  Growing in a pod could be better for you."

[8:08 PM]

Dalarei: "...this is not how we can continue.  I...we are not...just parts to reassemble.  We're Duo."

Xho06/19/2020

How many of them do you have growing in these... pods?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Hunter: "They don't grow.  They return to the pod once the host dies to await to be rebonded with another soul."

[8:09 PM]

Dunben: "Sometimes Ones will come to us from the Legion, but this has not happened in centuries."

Xho06/19/2020

I feel there are significant differences culturally between those in the Legion and those here.

Theo06/19/2020

nods.

Xho06/19/2020

It would likely not be a good match to leave One here.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

One: "We do not bond...until me."

Xho06/19/2020

It is possible One would consent to return when his lifespan as Duo comes to an end, but that would be up to One, at that time.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Dunben: "Of course he is free to join us then, but our main concern here is for your officer."

Xho06/19/2020

What are the odds?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Hunter: "If we were to force a rebonding there is any where between a 50 to 60 percent chance of causing him serious harm.  ...and a 35 percent chance it could shorten his lifespace drastically."

Xho06/19/2020

Is there anything else we can do to improve those odds?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

...Theo, I'd like you to roll me an arcana check with adv., please.

[8:15 PM]

Trienna: "...there are supposedly augmentations that could be made to Dalarei that could reduce the risk, but applying those themselves can be tricky."

Theo06/19/2020

(27)

Xho06/19/2020

... what if Dalarei was not the first person to receive One? Would a bonded individual be able to less forcefully transfer him to Dalarei?

[8:17 PM]

to One, as an aside, "Apologies, I am fully aware you are not a basketball."

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Theo You built the robot One is in, and you think that you could build more.  Potentially, following Xho's line of thinking, you could create a sort of...construct conga line to dampen One's rebonding to Dalarei.

[8:18 PM]

One: "Can we put me in a basketball?!?  That sounds cool!"

Theo06/19/2020

pulls out a notebook and starts jotting down notes furiously.

[8:18 PM]

Shh.

[8:18 PM]

We could do it.

[8:18 PM]

Commander, your idea is the right one.

[8:19 PM]

I can make a series of vessels.

Xho06/19/2020

That might make you ill, Duo.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Hunter: "...you could what?"

Theo06/19/2020

Like the one One is in.  Transfer from one to another, with Dalarei at the end.

[8:20 PM]

And with 100 percent less cultural assimilation.(edited)

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Dunben: "...transition to new hosts does become easier with each passing host...maybe this could...recreate that effect on a small scale?"

Theo06/19/2020

nods.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Hunter: "...you want to construct a series of crash test dummies as part of our sacred bonding ceremony?"

Theo06/19/2020

Homunculi.

Xho06/19/2020

.... it would probably be preferable to simply electrocuting him again, Headmaster.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Hunter's initial look of disbelief is slowly turning towards consideration.

Xho06/19/2020

If it works, it may be helpful for any ... similar accidents with your people, in the future.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Belos: "...this sounds absolutey idiotic, right?  I'm not the only one thinking that?"

[8:24 PM]

Trienna shrugs.  Hunter seems...still contemplative.

Theo06/19/2020

Does idiotic mean something else here or should I be insulted?

Sage06/19/2020

Why do you think that is there a reason you can’t acknowledge that Duo might be desperate but they still consider themselves joined?

Xho06/19/2020

They may simply desire that One stays here and joins their society.

[8:26 PM]

... which is not unreasonable, and is a kind thought.

[8:26 PM]

However, I feel there would be significant cultural clashes, and One would most likely return to Legion.

[8:27 PM]

It is more likely that positive, more active relations between Legion and the Ascended can be built over some time.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

One: "I would."

[8:27 PM]

Trienna: "...we only want what's best for everyone involved."

[8:27 PM]

Hunter: "How long would it take to make these...homunculi?"

Theo06/19/2020

With help, not too long.

Xho06/19/2020

I do appreciate that. We do as well. Your assistance is greatly valued.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Hunter: "We do have a talented artificer working at the school right now.  She's planning on taking the test to join and is constructing for us in the meantime."

Xho06/19/2020

More hands would surely be helpful.

Theo06/19/2020

nods.

[8:31 PM]

Williamson, my engineering team, anyone you want to lend to us here would be helpful.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Williamson (over ARTI and the comms): "We can send an engineering team down.  I am currently keeping study of the orb."

[8:32 PM]

Hunter: "We can reconvene at the school."

Theo06/19/2020

Okay.  Do me a favor, and grab the notebook under my engineering console marked 'Robot Death Army', all my homunculus designs are in there.

Xho06/19/2020

checks with the captain.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Grax: "...robot death army?"

Xho06/19/2020

How whimsical.

Theo06/19/2020

I am extremely whimsical.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Grax: "...noted."

[8:34 PM]

Grax: "Williamson, send the team to the school, we'll meet them there."

[8:35 PM]

As you all head out, Grax actually hangs back.  Once the Ascended are a bit further ahead, those hanging back will hear Grax say "Duma, keep all of our comms marked on the scanner.  Be ready with a security extraction team on my mark."

Xho06/19/2020

eyes him, but says nothing. Still has One's creepy lil hand.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Hunter: "What about Sage?  Will he be one of the vessels?"

Theo06/19/2020

He has a full consciousness, I don't know what effect that would have on a clean transfer.

Xho06/19/2020

Surely that would introduce unnecessary variables.

Theo06/19/2020

nods.

Sage06/19/2020

Indeed It would be an unnecessary risk I would think

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Hunter: "Just making sure all aspects of the plan are understood."

[8:39 PM]

Hunter: "...Sage, Law Officer Moq was hoping you might stop by to see him before you leave."

Xho06/19/2020

Perhaps it would be best if we stayed together.

Sage06/19/2020

I can do that while Theo sets up

[8:40 PM]

Viktor can come with me

Xho06/19/2020

I feel it would be better if you stayed.

[8:40 PM]

One appreciates your presence. You were the first individual he spoke with.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Trienna: "There is no rush.  And it's not a legal procedure.  Just a request."

[8:41 PM]

One's homunculus nods.

Sage06/19/2020

True ok We will go after then process

Xho06/19/2020

nods.

Sage06/19/2020

will walk closer to one

USS Adventure06/19/2020

One grabs Sage's hand.

[8:42 PM]

Dalarei, for his part, keeps one hand clenched tightly.

Xho06/19/2020

lets go of his other hand, so that he can't do that thing little kids do where they just put all their weight on you.

Sage06/19/2020

holds the hand

Xho06/19/2020

pats Dalarei on the shoulder, though.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Dalarei: "Apologies Commander.  I'll...I am able to act in a manner befitting a Planefleet officer."

Sage06/19/2020

passes dalarei a cookie

Xho06/19/2020

You are holding up well.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Dalarei takes it and that's the first time you notice his hand is a little shaky.  But he eats the cookie thankfully.

Xho06/19/2020

By contrast, I wept in front of cadets and coworkers, was tempted to go catatonic and then drank significantly more gin than was advisable.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Dalarei: "I am sorry, Commander.  Your reaction is understandable, though.  It was a traumatic experience, I am sure.'

Xho06/19/2020

Likely less so than being torn in half, Duo.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

He doesn't say anything.

Xho06/19/2020

No one will think less of you for exhibiting some sort of reaction.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Dalarei is quiet.  He looks like he might say something, but then you come up on the school.  In front you see Smoke and Szalai talking to someone you can't see.

[8:49 PM]

Actually, talking is not a proper description.  They're being scolded by someone you can't see someone with an older female voice that sounds...vaguely tinny.  Theo, you recognize this voice.

Theo06/19/2020

.... mom?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Woman: "Honestly!  You call those tools?  I've seen children better fit for--"

Xho06/19/2020

, having read Theo's file, is not at all sure this is a good thing.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

As you call that out a head pops forward.  It's an animatronic head, but not like Sage's at all.  It's far more articulate and the covering is less metal and more...like...sort of a stretchy but sturdy fabric.  Picture Vision from the Avengers, it's very human, but not quite.  And does have a jewel in her forehead.  And yes, Theo, this is your mother, Cassandra Forgewight.

[8:52 PM]

She comes out around the building and holds her arms wide.  "Theo!  Baby!  Come to mommy!"

Xho06/19/2020

... Dr. Forgewight, do not put any attachments on them unless specifically requested to do so by them. ... please.

Theo06/19/2020

blinks.  "What are you even doing here?  Is it you, or is it some alternate you?"

USS Adventure06/19/2020

She runs up and hugs you.

Theo06/19/2020

does hug her back.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra: "Alternate...no.  I don't think so.  You sent me all those letters while serving under that nice captain, right?  ...not this one.  The smart one."

[8:54 PM]

Grax's eyes shoot open wide.

Theo06/19/2020

I did.  I still have letters for you, but I haven't been able to send them.

Xho06/19/2020

... the smart one whose ship exploded?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra: "Nothing ventured, nothing gained."

Theo06/19/2020

This Captain is pretty good, too.  How are you here?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra: "Which is exactly why I'm here.  It got so dull being alone back at the house with you gone.  So, I decided to go hitchhiking."

[8:55 PM]

Cassandra: "Or...Plane Hiking?  Ha!  Tons of space to explore!"

[8:57 PM]

Cassandra: "Sorry.  I tried to let you know, but you've always been on the move yourself."

Theo06/19/2020

... our ship has been unable to get home since we launched.

[8:57 PM]

Do you have maps?  A flight path?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra: "Ha.  Even better.  I've got a black box in my abdomen.  I can help guide you back."

[8:58 PM]

Cassandra: "Oh, you can meet my new boyfriend too.  I think you'll like him."

Theo06/19/2020

It's not a god, is it?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra: "...not in a technical sense, but--"

[8:59 PM]

She winks.

Theo06/19/2020

...;ugh.

Xho06/19/2020

is trying to work out how this person could possibly have produced a Theo.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((Genetics aren't everything.))

Theo06/19/2020

introduces everyone.

[9:00 PM]

introduces Targal as 'former assistant'.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Targal: "Not an assistant!"

Theo06/19/2020

I mean, right, he's in security now.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra: "Ha!  That's just what Winston used to say!"

Xho06/19/2020

is as friendly as she ever gets.

Theo06/19/2020

Which is good, he's not a good assistant.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra: "Winston used to claim he was our neighbor, remember.  And yet, there he always was with that socket wrench and overalls."

Theo06/19/2020

He had a nice dog.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra nods.

[9:03 PM]

Cassandra: "So, you guys got lost?  Yeah, it can be really tricky?  Third class particle wave?"

Theo06/19/2020

Our datatanks were scrambled by a run in with the Legion.

[9:04 PM]

Pretty much as soon as we got into Void Space.

Xho06/19/2020

It was not avoidable.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra: "Oh!  Heard about them, but never met them.  Heard about this whole joining thing and thought I'd try it."

Theo06/19/2020

makes a face.  "Why?"

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra: "Cause it's there, honey.  It's a new experience.  I'm going to live another 70 years easy in this body, likely longer, I want to see what there is to see."

Theo06/19/2020

I don't think they let just anyone Join here.  Especially outsiders from our plane.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Hunter: "Hence why she has offered to work pro bono."

[9:07 PM]

Cassandra: "And if I get bored before they let me, I'll just move on."

Theo06/19/2020

Oh.  Well, it's good you're here.  I could use your help.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra: "Oh?"

Theo06/19/2020

I have to build a bunch of homunculi in a hurry.

[9:09 PM]

explains the situation and plan.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra: "Oh!  I love it!  And your design is incredible.  So much more sophisticated than the one you made in high school.  ...although, I do miss the flamethrower."

Xho06/19/2020

I do not think Duo wants a flamethrower.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Dalarei: "Do not give us a flamethrower."

[9:10 PM]

One: "But--"

[9:11 PM]

Dalarei: "No!"

Xho06/19/2020

We can requisition the parts for a handheld flamethrower.

Theo06/19/2020

They're easy to make.

[9:12 PM]

Phlogi has one.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Targal: "...can any of us get flamethrowers."

[9:12 PM]

Grax: "...how about we just keep all flamethrowers in requisitions?"(edited)

[9:12 PM]

Grax: "No personal flamethrowers."

Xho06/19/2020

Quite.

Sage06/19/2020

That doesn’t apply to cooking torches does it?

Xho06/19/2020

When we have finished, perhaps Dr. Forgewight can show you the ship. It is of his design.

Theo06/19/2020

IT's fine, Phlogi's on the ship watching the cat.

[9:14 PM]

She knows, I consulted with her through correspondence while I was designing it.

[9:14 PM]

But I'd still like you to see it.  Especially if you have map data.

Xho06/19/2020

... I do feel the impact is different when seeing it in person.

Theo06/19/2020

nods.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra: "Certainly.  I also wanna see if you took my advice on the power core."

[9:16 PM]

Cassandra: "Oh, there's Tos.  You'll love him.  Tos, honey!"

[9:16 PM]

Viex: "...did you say Tos?"

[9:17 PM]

You guys turn to see a human man, big, burly, with a thick beard and a dress shirt unbuttoned to reveal a thick hairy chest.  He comes approaching, a wide grin on his face.

[9:17 PM]

Tos: "Cassie!  You working with new......Bas?"

[9:17 PM]

Viex: "Mom?"

Xho06/19/2020

Picard-facepalms and rubs her forehead.

[9:18 PM]

to Grax, "Sir, are there any empty rooms remaining, do you happen to recall?"

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Viex: "We do not have to take them, sir."

[9:19 PM]

Tos: "...Bas...are we still--"

[9:19 PM]

Viex: "Mom...not now!"

Theo06/19/2020

looks at Viex with a raised eyebrow, then back at his mom.  "....this seems complex."

Xho06/19/2020

Perhaps you two should speak privately.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra: "He never even mentioned having kids."

[9:21 PM]

Viex: "...perhaps we just don't have to speak."

[9:21 PM]

Viex goes into the school.

Xho06/19/2020

Dr. Viex is the co-head of the medical science department.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Tos: "Oh...that sounds...impressive."

Xho06/19/2020

In the three short months of our mission, they have done groundbreaking work.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Tos's form shifts a bit as you're talking.  Turning into a smaller, more elven form.  Still male, though.(edited)

[9:23 PM]

Tos: "...I think I should talk to them.  Honey, I--"

[9:24 PM]

Cassandra: "No, it's fine.  I have a son, too."

Theo06/19/2020

waves with his fake arm.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Tos: "...nice to meet you."

Xho06/19/2020

Perhaps we should return to the matter at hand.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra: "We have supplies in the back.  Dr. Forgewight, would you like to lead this project?"

[9:25 PM]

She beams at you, proudly.

Theo06/19/2020

nods.  "Right.  Let's get to work."

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Tos goes to find Viex.(edited)

Xho06/19/2020

sticks with Duo's two halves.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

The Duo halves are gonna stick with Theo and watch it work.

Sage06/19/2020

sticks with them as well

Xho06/19/2020

keeps an eye out for any weirdness.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Ok, Viex and Tos do not return.  As they work, eventually the other Councilors leave one by one.  Only Headmaster Hunter stays.

Xho06/19/2020

sidles up to Hunter, preferably out of earshot of both Duos.

Sage06/19/2020

does seem a little more on edge than usual as the robots are being made

[9:31 PM]

((Is Ava still around))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((She is.))

Xho06/19/2020

... we have met previously and you are aware that I am often somewhat blunt. Is it possible your colleagues could be attempting to keep Duo... part of Duo, here?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Hunter: "....possible.  We get more and more applicants every year, but only have so many Ones."

[9:33 PM]

Hunter: "...I would not keep a One here against its will.  ...but I cannot speak for others.  I cannot believe a councillor would think along those lines, though."

Xho06/19/2020

One is very young, perhaps they feel he is not mature enough to make that decision himself. I would suppose their motives to be pure.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Hunter: "Possible.  ...I would hope this plan works."

[9:35 PM]

((Can I get some perception checks, please?))

Xho06/19/2020

Do you feel they would wait until this plan was complete? Surely they would make an attempt prior to that. As they do not want Dalarei harmed either.

Theo06/19/2020

((22))

Xho06/19/2020

((18.))

Sage06/19/2020

((Nat 20 27 total))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Hunter: "...assuming they don't want Dalarei harmed."

[9:37 PM]

All three of you and Hunter then notice something.  ...one of the homunculi is off.  It's too big and it's shape isn't right.

Xho06/19/2020

That would seem unduly vindictive.

Theo06/19/2020

.... that's not to my specifications.

Xho06/19/2020

... clearly not.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

You then notice it start to twitch.

[9:38 PM]

Hunter: "...is it meant to do that?"

Xho06/19/2020

No. It is possible we have been sabotaged. Duo, get away from that thing.

Theo06/19/2020

No, these are all dormant homunculi.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Dalarei and One move away from it.

Sage06/19/2020

moves closer to it

Xho06/19/2020

Sage, what are you doing?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra moves closer too.

Theo06/19/2020

Mother, you should get back.

Xho06/19/2020

runs to tackle the thing.

Sage06/19/2020

looks to see if it is just twitching or moving purposefully

USS Adventure06/19/2020

"I have a polyam---oh, ok, go for it!"

[9:41 PM]

Xho, make a dex check.

Xho06/19/2020

((10, oh dear. Well, this is going to be embarrassing.))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

...Sage and Theo I also need you to make Dex saving throws now.

Xho06/19/2020

((Don't answer and Xho does assume you're mind-controlled, as it turns out.  ))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((...and Cassandra rolled a nat 1))

Theo06/19/2020

((6!))

Sage06/19/2020

((Add 4 if you are in 10 feet of Sage))

Theo06/19/2020

((10, then.))

Sage06/19/2020

((18))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Sage, you're able to maneuver out of the way in time.  But sadly no one else does.  Even with the +4.  Everyone take 15 points of damage, except for Sage who takes 8 as it explodes and fills the room with smoke.

Sage06/19/2020

looks around to see if one and dalarei are still around

Xho06/19/2020

coughs and casts Darkness. Fuck those assholes.

[9:45 PM]

can't see, no one fucking else can either.

[9:46 PM]

looks for One.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Sage, give me a perception check at disadv before the room is encased in darkness.

Theo06/19/2020

Everyone sound off.

Sage06/19/2020

((19))

Xho06/19/2020

https://roll20.net/compendium/dnd5e/Darkness#content

Roll20

Roll20

Roll20 brings pen-and-paper gameplay to your browser with features that save time and enhance your favorite parts of tabletop games.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

You see One being carried off as everyone else chokes on smoke.  As that happens, the room fills with darkness, seemingly confusing the assailants.

Sage06/19/2020

heads towards where he thinks One was being grabbed”they are taking One”(edited)

Xho06/19/2020

tries to head that direction too. Hopefully having more practice navigating in magical darkness helps.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Sage, you and Xho actually are the only ones who can navigate somewhat well thanks to the darkness and knowing where they were.  I'd like each of you to roll an athletics check.

Sage06/19/2020

((11))

Xho06/19/2020

((2. It's a shame that wasn't acrobatics. >.< ))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Xho, you reach out and grab air.  They're not where you were expecting.  Sage, you stumble and feel them, but can't get a hold of them.

[9:51 PM]

...they....however...cannot see....let me see if they remember where the door is.

[9:51 PM]

They do.  Ok.

[9:51 PM]

You do hear a struggling One, though.

Xho06/19/2020

swears in Undercommon and tries to follow the sound of One.

[9:52 PM]

I can hear him!

Sage06/19/2020

does as well

USS Adventure06/19/2020

You guys follow the sound out into the hallway and past the darkness.  They're moving slowly...cause struggling homunculus.  But they are escaping.

Xho06/19/2020

vanishes the darkness and runs after them.

Sage06/19/2020

runs as well

Xho06/19/2020

STOP OR WE WILL HAVE TO SHOOT.

Sage06/19/2020

((Can we see them and how far away are they?))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((They're about 20ish feet away, I'd say.))(edited)

[9:56 PM]

But as you're planning that, a sudden burst shoots out of the homunculus housing One,

Theo06/19/2020

((16 Con saves from whoever's got him.))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

There are two figures and they both rolled 4s...so...no.

[9:56 PM]

Roll damage.

Theo06/19/2020

((They take 2 damage, but more importantly there's a big noise and they're pushed 10 feet away.))

Xho06/19/2020

pelts after them.

Theo06/19/2020

... like I'd build a robot without defenses.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

They are forced to drop One, shooting one 10 feet back towards you and one ten feet away from you.

Xho06/19/2020

ignores them and goes for the kid!

Sage06/19/2020

will check on One

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((Which kid?))

Xho06/19/2020

((One, the only kid here!))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((Ah))

Theo06/19/2020

looks for Dalarei.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Dalarei peeks out from the door behind you.  Sage and Xho, you both find One scrambled, but unharmed.  The two assailants clamber to their feet and begin to run.

Theo06/19/2020

No.

Sage06/19/2020

will cast command “halt” on both of them

Theo06/19/2020

pulls out his rifle.

Sage06/19/2020

((Dc 15 wis save))

Xho06/19/2020

hugs the homunculus and gets a necrotic bolt ready to shoot at them if Sage's command doesn't work.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((The one closest to you rolls a nat 20 and saves.  The other rolls an 8 and halts.))(edited)

Xho06/19/2020

shoots the closer one. Probably so does Theo.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Xho, you get a move first, then Theo.

Sage06/19/2020

goes to the halted one and tries to restrain them

USS Adventure06/19/2020

You can do so easily.  Xho, you attack the one still running?

Xho06/19/2020

((Yep. 24.))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((That totally hits.  Roll 3d6 force damage and add dex))

Xho06/19/2020

((18))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

He drops like a sack of hammers.

Xho06/19/2020

((It's actually necrotic. Like... death energy.))

[10:03 PM]

Duo? One? Are you all right?

Sage06/19/2020

looks to see who he has restrained

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((Oh, I thought you were using your phaser.))

Xho06/19/2020

((Nope. I shot MURDER at him.))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((...ok...he's dead then.))

Xho06/19/2020

((Well no, I mean, it still works like any other spell damage.  ))

[10:04 PM]

((The type is just necrotic.))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((...what spell was it?))

Xho06/19/2020

Duo?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

One: "I am fine!"

Theo06/19/2020

Mom, you all right?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra: "Wowee!  Zowee!  Now that hit harder than the faerie powder I got back in...well, you don't need to know everything."

Xho06/19/2020

says something in Undercommon.

[10:07 PM]

... good.

[10:07 PM]

I am going to need to purchase more gin.

Theo06/19/2020

looks at Xho.  "what was that?  That was pretty cool."

Xho06/19/2020

stands up, and helps the homunculous up too.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Grax: "Commander, we're gonna need to talk about your lack of appreciation for scotch."

Xho06/19/2020

I do like scotch, sir.

Sage06/19/2020

We do have a supply of alcohol types in the kitchen

Xho06/19/2020

... and I am not entirely sure what that was, Doctor. I believe it has something to do with being dead.

Sage06/19/2020

It was definitely helpful

USS Adventure06/19/2020

The one Sage has tied up is screaming.

[10:10 PM]

"What was that?!?  What did you do?!?  Is he gonna be ok?!?"

Sage06/19/2020

Why were you grabbing One?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

"...I...I can't say."

Theo06/19/2020

takes stock of the other homunculi.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

The two are wearing hoods over their faces, fyi.

Sage06/19/2020

Why not?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Roll investigation Theo.

Sage06/19/2020

pulls the hood back on the tied up one

Xho06/19/2020

If you are asking if One suffered any lasting trauma over your attempt to kidnap him away from his family ... I hope not.

Theo06/19/2020

((Ug.  9.)

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((...I'll give you adv, as they are your designs.))

Theo06/19/2020

((26 then.))

Xho06/19/2020

If you are asking about your partner in crime I do not know.

[10:13 PM]

limps over to the one she shot and flips them over.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Theo, you do some comprehensive searches and find no other devices planted, but you do see a number of subtle sabotage's made to foil the designs.

Sage06/19/2020

leaves the tied up one by xho and goes over to check on the downed one (edited)

Theo06/19/2020

((Who all was helping us with this?  Any natives?))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

The figure with their hood removed is a half-elven girl.  Brown skin and blue eyes.  Not ascended.

[10:14 PM]

((No natives were directly helping, but the council and a couple students were present while you were working.  Otherwise it was you, your mom and your people.))

[10:15 PM]

((Xho went over to the not tied up one))

Xho06/19/2020

((Correct.))

[10:15 PM]

flipped them over and also, now she is pulling the hood off.

Theo06/19/2020

Let me guess.  You couldn't get joined b ythe laws of your people, so you decided to kidnap someone and force them into Joining with you.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

She doesn't say anything, but tears start to well in her eyes.  "...I...I'm not allowed to say."

Xho06/19/2020

I find it more likely their leadership offered them a place.

[10:16 PM]

It is not their fault. They thought they were doing the right thing.

[10:16 PM]

((Is mine dead? Alive?))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

She looks at Xho surprised, and nods.

[10:16 PM]

((Do you remove their hood?))

Xho06/19/2020

does, yeah.

Theo06/19/2020

They still planted a bomb to kill people.

Xho06/19/2020

It was likely meant to injure and provide a distraction.

[10:17 PM]

A much more lethal bomb could have been left.

Theo06/19/2020

TEll that to the shrapnel in my kidneys.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

The other figure is a boy, about the same age, also half-elven.  His skin has gone pale and veiny.  He is breathing, but it's shortened and rough.

Xho06/19/2020

... Sage, can you heal this one?

Theo06/19/2020

Also someone tampered with a lot of these things.  How did you sabotage us?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

"...we just did what he told us to do."

Xho06/19/2020

Hunter? Or one of the others?
Sage06/19/2020

will lay on hands 10 h.p.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

After the lay on hands, color returns to the boys skin, and his breathing normalizes.

[10:19 PM]

Hunter: "I was talking to you, Commander."

[10:19 PM]

Girl: "...if I tell you, I'll be killed.  Please.  I'm sorry.  I didn't mean to hurt anyone.  And neither did my friend."

Xho06/19/2020

Illusions exist, and I am somewhat inclined to suspect people I like over people I do not. Apologies.

[10:20 PM]

takes a knee in front of the girl.

[10:20 PM]

... I understand that you were doing what you felt was right, and most likely, so did the person who asked you to do this.

[10:21 PM]

However, as you can see, Duo, half of whom is in this ridiculous homunculus, is part of our family.

[10:22 PM]

He does not want to be separated, and he does not want to be separated from us. He is in a great deal of pain right now, as is his, what you would call a host. What we were doing was attempting to heal them and put them back into a state without suffering.

[10:23 PM]

If you truly feel they will kill you if you tell us what happened, I will understand, but we need to know who did this so that we can prevent more suffering. If you wish you can come with us when we leave, and if you do not, you will not be made to do so. But please consider telling us, and helping our family member.

[10:23 PM]

((20 persuasion.))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

She's tearing up and your words are clearly touching her.  She turns away, ashamed and heart-broken.  "...the Councilor...Councilor Belos said that the One could take us to the Legion.  And that he alone could convince them to join us again.  I...he said it would be what was best for everyone."

Xho06/19/2020

nods.

[10:25 PM]

He does believe that.

[10:26 PM]

... he is wrong, but he does believe that. It is not your fault. ... for what it is worth, I do not feel One would convince Legion of anything, as he is very young and Legion is very.... wary of organics.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Belos: "So I've heard."

Xho06/19/2020

gets between him and the girl.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

You turn and the Councilor is standing there.  "Granted, I wasn't really planning on One doing the talking.  But no matter...I'll find them on my own."

[10:30 PM]

Hunter: "...what was to be gained from this?  You would use a kidnapped child to open negotiations?"

[10:30 PM]

Belos: "...no.  Just to locate them."

[10:30 PM]

He tugs at a key around his neck.  "I have my own means of convincing them."

Xho06/19/2020

Perhaps  you simply should have asked. ... what is that?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Belos: "...let's just say that you're not the only ones who have collected strange powers and machines, Commander."

Theo06/19/2020

eyes it.

Xho06/19/2020

... you intend to compel them.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Theo It appears to be an average key...but the material is strange.  Not quite jade...but jade-like.

Theo06/19/2020

Who'd you make sabotage the homunculi?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((I meant for that to be spoiler blocked...but whatever.))

Xho06/19/2020

That means you are the second joined person who has sociopathic, deranged tendencies. Headmaster, I am having serious doubts as to your societal system here.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

"It's actually really incredible how fast Hunter can move.  Even in his old age."

[10:33 PM]

Hunter's face blanches.  "I...I didn't...I wouldn't..."

Xho06/19/2020

Not on purpose. Clearly he has the ability to mind control people.

[10:34 PM]

... but it is likely limited in number, or he would have controlled us all by now.

Sage06/19/2020

Or he is stalling for something

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Belos: "Very clever, Sage the mechanoid.  Interesting design, by the way."(edited)

[10:35 PM]

Belos: "...it's been several hosts since I've seen one like it."

[10:35 PM]

Ava is standing and watching, by the way.  Her usually unreadable face curdled in anger.

Xho06/19/2020

One, how do you kill one of your kind? I am asking for purely informational purposes, of course.

Sage06/19/2020

You have seen this design before?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Hunter: "His One cannot...but he can be forced from his host...and cast out into the void."

Xho06/19/2020

Not enough. Dr. Forgewight, how would one trap such a One in an object for eternity?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Belos: "Oh yes...there seem to have been some modifications, but the original design is still there...Evord."

Theo06/19/2020

Easily.  Remember the field the crystalline people used to trap that god?

Xho06/19/2020

I feel you could come up with a superior design. That was hardly eternity.

Sage06/19/2020

Theo has probably perfected it in his spare time. I bet?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Ava: "You are attempting to threaten a ghost."

Theo06/19/2020

It worked on a god, I don't see a ghost posing an issue.

Xho06/19/2020

I generally do not threaten people.

Sage06/19/2020

Evord is that supposed to mean something to me?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Belos's smile broadens.  "Oh...that is very funny, indeed.  In a cosmic sort of way.  I suppose the Oni witch could tell you...except her kind don't do that sort of thing, do you?  Messing with the fabric of causality, as if giving cryptic clues doesn't do that."

[10:42 PM]

Dalarei picks up a piece of scrap metal and chucks it at Belos.  The metal flies right through him.

Xho06/19/2020

... a projection?

Theo06/19/2020

Mmm.  Makes sense.

[10:42 PM]

If he was here, he would have acted against us while he was posturing like a supervillain.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Belos: "I only have so much power, and I can act better on my own.  As a councilor, I have access to several privileges, including a plane ship away from here.  Which I have used approximately 15 minutes ago."

Xho06/19/2020

Good.

[10:44 PM]

covers the homunculus's ears.

[10:44 PM]

I believe the correct phrase is "fuck off."

Theo06/19/2020

We have work to do.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

The image cuts out and the Belos vanishes.

[10:45 PM]

Hunter: "...I will need to speak to Hope Moq.  Begin an investigation into the council."

Xho06/19/2020

offers the girl a hand up.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((...she's currently tied up.))

Xho06/19/2020

will untie her first, then.

Sage06/19/2020

will give the girl and boy cookies

USS Adventure06/19/2020

She accepts the hand once untied.  "...I'm...I'm really sorry."

[10:46 PM]

They both take the cookies.

Theo06/19/2020

He can literally control minds, I think you're fine.

Xho06/19/2020

It is not your fault. At all.

[10:47 PM]

You may still come with us if you wish, but I also feel you would be safe here with the Headmaster.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Ava: "Not their minds, likely.  It will only work on Ones and the Joined."

Theo06/19/2020

Do you know about his artifact?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Ava nods.

Xho06/19/2020

Moq wanted to speak to us as well.

Sage06/19/2020

The question is was he working with anyone else willingly

Theo06/19/2020

I have to get back to work.  Most of this is salvageable.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Dalarei hugs One.

Xho06/19/2020

We should likely bring down more security.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Cassandra frowns, then smiles, then goes to help Theo repair the homunculi.

[10:51 PM]

By the way, upon reentering, you see that there is one over by the side that is thoroughly smashed, with Targal standing next to it looking guilty.

Sage06/19/2020

will go to Ava “so what did he mean by messing with the fabric of causality?”

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((You pull her aside?))

Xho06/19/2020

checks with the captain and then does call for more security.

Sage06/19/2020

((Sure))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

The captain (who was totally helping people evacuate and not just standing around doing nothing cause I don't know how to manage NPCs in a combat) agrees and calls down more security.

Xho06/19/2020

... perhaps Moq could come here and speak to us here.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Theo, you are able to repair the robots with help and align them all up.  I'd say you make about seven, not including the one One is already in.

[10:56 PM]

Dalarei lines up on the other side and nods to One.

Xho06/19/2020

sticks close with them.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

One then shoots out into the next homunculus...then another...and another...until...finally...it hits Dalarei

[10:57 PM]

The two convulse a bit as they join...and then Dalarei sits up and opens a pair of golden eyes.  "...wow...still a rush."

[10:57 PM]

He smiles.

Xho06/19/2020

... thank the gods.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Duo: "...thank you, Commander.  And Dr.  All of you."

[11:00 PM]

Duo sees Sage approach.  "Hey, chef.  Do you have any more cookies?  Half of me hasn't had any in a long time."

Sage06/19/2020

passes some over

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Duo just dives into them.

Xho06/19/2020

Now we should go and see Moq.

Sage06/19/2020

Before anything else goes wrong ?

Xho06/19/2020

will distract Duo from the cookies for a moment by hugging him, though.

[11:02 PM]

... yes, before anything else goes wrong. Dr. Forgewight, how many times have you been blown up? At what point did it become old to you?

Theo06/19/2020

Many times.  And I'll let you know.

Xho06/19/2020

I must have a low tolerance.

Theo06/19/2020

I don't want to meet the person that has a high tolerance.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Law Minister Moq, the tiefling whom you worked closely with on the Gottfried case, arrives with his own men to investigate the area and question you, after this settles.

[11:05 PM]

Moq: "...we seem to be lucky you show up when you do."

Xho06/19/2020

You will forgive me if I say I do not feel lucky.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Moq: "...you're sure it was Councilor Belos?"

Xho06/19/2020

tells him why they believe that, but points out that there ARE illusions and so forth, so...

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Moq: "...would you be willing to keep this information under wraps for now?"(edited)

Sage06/19/2020

Can you keep the kids safe if we do?

[11:08 PM]

They were threatened

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Moq: "I can do my best.  Move them into witness protection."

[11:09 PM]

Moq: "Until we know how far this goes, we need to be very careful who has this information."

Xho06/19/2020

That is the second sociopathic One we have come upon in your society. I would think about that very hard if I were you.

[11:10 PM]

And perhaps check your crime statistics for unusual clusters.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Moq: "...that was...actually why I was hoping to speak to Sage."

Xho06/19/2020

... go ahead, Sage.

Sage06/19/2020

How can I help?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Moq: "...Sage...you were the last person we know of to speak to Gottfried."

[11:12 PM]

Moq: "...may I ask what the nature of the conversation was?"

Sage06/19/2020

Whether he felt any guilt or remorse over his actions it didn’t go well.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Moq: "...I see.  Did he indicate any further plans?"

Sage06/19/2020

Not that I recall

[11:14 PM]

... did he escape?

Xho06/19/2020

... did he escape?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Moq: "...yes and no."

[11:15 PM]

Moq: "His One abandoned his host and somehow evaded our security detail.  So...we only have half of Gottfried."

Xho06/19/2020

... and that half is likely in no fit state to talk.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Moq: "You saw how your Duo was when separated."

Sage06/19/2020

So you think gottfrieds one may have theoretically been involved in this?

Xho06/19/2020

... then we need to find the real Belos's One.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Moq: "...it would be an odd coincidence, otherwise."

[11:18 PM]

Moq: "We've never needed to use them before...but we will be engaging in a plane chase manhunt.  We will give you our frequency so you can contact us in case you learn anything new.  And vice versa."

Xho06/19/2020

It is possible the discarded One is still here somewhere.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Moq: "Possible, yes."

Sage06/19/2020

When did this happen?

Xho06/19/2020

They might have information. ... they might also need help.

Sage06/19/2020

Or they might still be in there with Gottfried

Xho06/19/2020

Two of them? ... is that likely?

Sage06/19/2020

I think we heard that somewhere that it was possible

Xho06/19/2020

eyes Forgewight if he's still around.

[11:25 PM]

... true.

Theo06/19/2020

is.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((You met alt Forgewight, yes, who had like...77 Ones in him.))

Xho06/19/2020

... for some individuals more than others.

[11:26 PM]

Very well. But keep an eye out for a lost One, discarded like a fly husk.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Moq nods.

Sage06/19/2020

I wouldn’t put either action past Gottfried

Xho06/19/2020

I would not either.

Sage06/19/2020

How long ago did he escape Moq(edited)

Xho06/19/2020

... is there anything else I should be aware of?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Moq: "Two and half weeks."

[11:28 PM]

Moq: "It is, admittedly, a kind of cold trail."

Xho06/19/2020

Did Gottfried's humanoid half give any information?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Moq: "Pieces.  He seems to be loyal to his One's ideals, though."

[11:30 PM]

Moq: "...the Joined are never easy to really split."

[11:31 PM]

Ava's not there.

[11:31 PM]

She didn't come back with you.

Sage06/19/2020

((Ok then never mind that))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((Sorry))

Xho06/19/2020

Perhaps you should speak with him, Sage.

Sage06/19/2020

I can if you want I don’t know what it will help but I can try. Is he stable enough for a visitor Moq?

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Moq: "...I can arrange for one.  Will you still be here in a few hours?"

Sage06/19/2020

((Is the captain with us?))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((He is))

[11:35 PM]

Grax: "I can have us be."

Sage06/19/2020

If you think it is worth it captain.

Xho06/19/2020

You spoke with him before. You may have a rapport.

Theo06/19/2020

You're pretty good at people.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

((We can squish that another night.  If people are willing, I did have one more small thing I wanted to do back on the ship.))

Xho06/19/2020

((Sure!))

Sage06/19/2020

((Ok))

Xho06/19/2020

will need to find a doctor at some point and get healed up, though. And wants to ask Grax if scotch was merely a threat or a promise.

Theo06/19/2020

also needs to talk to his mom about maps.

Xho06/19/2020

(("Wait--they don't love you like I love you."))

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Viex, who is still having daddy/mommy issues will patch you guys up.

[11:40 PM]

Grax will share a bottle of fine scotch with everyone in the mess hall in celebration of Duo's rejoining.

[11:40 PM]

As there's a mixture of tension over the escaping bad guys but elation over Duo's success...a question suddenly hangs in the air.  ...where is Duo, anyway?

[11:40 PM]

It's then that you hear the feedback of a microphone as Itsy steps forward.

[11:41 PM]

Itsy: "Ladies, gentlemen and that wonderful technicolor rainbow in between!  Tonight, by request, I am stepping away from the stage...momentarily, to allow a new singer to make their debut."

[11:42 PM]

Itsy: "They've been through some tough times, but now they want to share their high with all of you...with just a little help from my own illusion capabilities."

[11:42 PM]

It's at this point Duo steps onto the little stage Sage and Theo had set up and music starts to play.  As that happens another Duo appears next to him.

[11:43 PM]

Duo: "Like the wallpaper sticks to the wall!"

[11:43 PM]

Duo: "Like the seashore clings to the sea."

[11:44 PM]

Duos in unison: "Like you'll never be rid of your shadooooooow!  Oh, you'll never get rid of me!"

[11:44 PM]

And it keeps going.

Xho06/19/2020

reaches for more scotch.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

For the record...Duo canNOT sing.

[11:44 PM]

[11:44 PM]

But they're having fun.

Xho06/19/2020

knows that's the point! But yikes, going to your kid's recitals. Yikes!

2

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Grax cringes a bit too.  "...I don't even like Sinatra."

Xho06/19/2020

pours him another too.

[11:46 PM]

It sounds better in Undercommon.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Grax: "I think it sounds better in key."

Xho06/19/2020

This is in key, sir. ... every key. All of them.

USS Adventure06/19/2020

Grax starts chuckling.