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File: 1497917642798.jpg (87.98 KB, 960x687, fcc5829c7cbe9bc92fff5110e9….jpg)

 No.27457[Last 50 Posts]

Your shuttle to the floating city of Sela opens its doors, letting you and your handlers step off. Here, on one of the highest points of the facility, you can see the less than impressive conditions of the city. Hastily put-together housing around the sturdy core of the facility, the dust gathering on the properly assembled stands.

A group of decently dressed guards and a few bureaucrats wait on the edge of the landing pad for you. They are a mixed group, but the one most seem to defer to is a gray colored Amphibiod with a tacky suit.

 No.27458

[Please post your sheet with updated stats]

"Hey, if you guys are hiring, today I finish paying off this vessel. Just saying!" The pilot announces to you.

[Frank]
Your spotted Reptilian guard Ijapa takes the lead and heads out of the shuttle ahead of you.

"It's not solid all the way through, but I'll take it." He says as he taps on the metal a few times. "You ready?"

[Shelly and Wan]
Bostaur walks off the shuttle and flexes his shoulders. "Only ship more cramped than that one has to be ones built FOR Humans. I've got directions for where they want us to go, but let me know if you want to take a moment before we head out."

[Rachel]
Look out, you've got three pixelated drones behind your mech!

 No.27459

>>27458
"Oh yes, please, show me the way!"

 No.27460

>>27458
https://docs.google.com/document/d/14TF0DnwyRm0xZtJoL8iT1KPKk7tA0aOHB_pduEwwNqk/edit?usp=sharing
Friend-Duana wanted pictures, right? Snap a few pictures of the area we've just landed in!

 No.27461

>>27457
https://pastebin.com/47HTLThT
Well, I'm just here for loading. Make sure my cockpit is securely shut, and give Ijapa a now-robotic thumbs up.

 No.27462

>>27459
All manner of bodyguard aliens pass by as you get off the ships. Some are y'all enough that even your mech would have to angle back to see their head, while a couple Amphibioids are short enough you can look down on them from your mech.

"Hey, are you the Fold inspectors?" A higher pitched voice yells out from the crowd.

>>27460
She'll appreciate the pictures. Lots of activity down below, with all sorts of groups you caught in your view finder. A lot of them are even wearing uniforms that she might try to imitate.

"Hey, over here!" A voice shouts as Bostaur turns around.

 No.27463

>>27461
"Well, I wasn't expecting a Computron here. Or is this just a helper?" A sharply dressed, feathered alien from the crowd says as she passes you towards a stunned Ijapa.

"Well, the thing is…" He seems caught off guard.

 No.27464

>>27458
Psh, this simulation program doesn't give breaks huh?

(I'll assume I'm already in Fighter mode for this encounter)

Let's leave them eating my dust
'1d10+2' agility

Roll #1 9 + 2 = 11

 No.27465

>>27463
Shrug.
"Technically I'm the mechanic, ma'am."
This will be on external speakers, naturally.
"But I suppose being the help is what I am today."

 No.27466

>>27462
Very good! Not the state of the planet, but that she'll be happy to have the pictures.
Turn to meet the voice as well.
"Greetings! We are here to inspect the Fold purchases."

 No.27467

>>27464
The suit and the fans simulate the high g's you'd experience going that fast. As you blow past the clouds, you come up to the simulated cities. Lots of towers and sky scrapers to hide and use for cover…

"Remember, break line of sight but try not to get missiles shoved into buildings. Human Mecha should be better here." A voice on your radio says as the three drones appear on your radar.

 No.27468

>>27465
"It does talk. Just keep up and we can get this done." She looks you over a bit with her sharp eyes and sharp beak, then turns around and heads towards the lift elevator.

"All business. Never liked those types, hard to read. What do you think?" Ijapa says as he walks over to the lift.

 No.27469

>>27466
You see a small set of arms trying to push through the crowd before the rest of her manages to push through.

"Ugh, I wish I wasn't so small. People have no idea what it's like. Sorry about that, I'm Pazu. I'm here to guide you and your Robot buddy to the Fold crystal warehouse. Or wait, is that a Computron? Am I being rude!" She says, her ears darting up in worry and surprise.

 No.27470

>>27467
"Yeah Yeah I got it, now watch this"
Rev up those boosters and go to loop around a building fast enough that I can get behind the drones instead "Surprise!"

And now to unload the rifle at them
(what should I roll for that?)

 No.27471

>>27470
it's 1d10 plus any bonuses. Repost your sheet here.

 No.27472

>>27468
I'll send this on the private channel.
"I think that I'd rather she be indifferent towards me than outright hostile."
Scratch my head a bit.
"Maybe attractive if you're into that sort of thing, I guess? I dunno, does your species think females in business attire is attractive too?"

 No.27473

>>27471
oops I thought I did that in my first post https://pastebin.com/jdMGv5Ns
yes but which bonuses? Agility again to see if I manage to do the maneuver or to shoot?

 No.27474

>>27472
"Makes sense. It's what the boss wanted." He responds on the radio.

"But no way is she my type. Too uptight, I need a girl that can dance at any time, you know?" He says as the Lift starts going down.

"A sizable order. The Mayor instructed me to say that he's happy for your business. How long will you be staying, and does this Computron need anything special?" She stares at you with that last sentence, or at least looking at your mech's 'head'. The only thing about her that grabs attention is the nametag with Alba on it.

 No.27475

>>27473
3d10+1

 No.27476

>>27475
'3d10+1' lay it on them!

Roll #1 1, 4, 2 + 1 = 8

 No.27477

>>27474
Back on open speaker.
"Just the room to work, ma'am."
Ijapa can field the other questions, since I get the feeling she's not expecting me to know the ins and outs of our stay.

 No.27478

>>27476
*Click*

*Click*

*Click*

Nothing comes out! Your weapon, it's messed up!

"Sheesh, you call that aiming?" The voice laughs.

The three Drones fly off to Medium Range before turning back. One starts firing at you! '1d10'

Fix your gun quickly!

>>27477
"Good. The faster we get everyone in position, the better." She says as the Lift stops and the door opens up to a huge marketplace. There's so much activity going on that many don't even look at your direction. All manner of large aliens with stalls and things, bartering knick knacks the size of cars like they were nothing.

"You can handle yourself in a crowd?"

Roll #1 5 = 5

 No.27479

>>27478
"So long as nothing gets underfoot, yes."
Man, it's probably a good thing we didn't bring Civet or those other two. They'd be distracted immediately. Though they'll probably want souvenirs… I can take care of that after I'm done with the transport.

 No.27480

>>27478
''Motherfff- This shit's broken!'' I boost away to find some cover before more shots are sent after me before I can reload
'1d10+2'

Roll #1 2 + 2 = 4

 No.27481

>>27479
"Like those Tibbers? How thoughtful." She starts leading you through the crowds, all manners of giant alien walking by and bumping into your mech.

Roll Street Smarts.

>>27480
A few rounds hit, but they plink off your shield. In the time it takes you to dart off, your jam is fixed and the gun is ready to fire.

But they followed you! Evade! '2d10-2'

Roll #1 7, 10 - 2 = 15

 No.27482

>>27481
aw shit I'm not good at those. All I have to do is follow Alba, though, so I shouldn't get lost.
'1d10-1' Just hope I remember to plot out the return course…

Roll #1 3 - 1 = 2

 No.27483

>>27480
Your shields take some heavy damage! They're down to 14!

"C'mon Rachel, you can handle this difficulty." The snickering voice on the radio says.

 No.27484

>>27481
>>27483
I reacted too slow, the shoots are too close already for me to dodge so I'll hold the shield up tightly and hope it doesn't hit me too hard
But once I endure that, it's time for payback!
''They barely scratched me with that, I'm just giving them a fighting chance''
'3d10+1' shoot!

''You know I love playing catch up''

Roll #1 8, 6, 9 + 1 = 24

 No.27485

>>27482
It starts getting packed. Even with Alba shouting to clear the way, the passageways are narrow. Everyone starts pushing in, it's hard to keep the Mech stable as something pushes you from behind!

Roll Agility

 No.27486

>>27484
"Oh, maybe you are getting better." The radio says with some surprise as you take down two of the Drones in one go! Their burning wrecks fall to the virtual Earth, but drones don't have feelings, so it keeps shooting now that it is in close. '1d10-2'

Roll #1 1 - 2 = -1

 No.27487

>>27484
It's shots are much easier to predict when it's by itself, letting even you Dodge with ease.

 No.27488

>>27485
That I'm at least average at. '1d10'
If this thing bowls over I should invest in extra legs…

Roll #1 1 = 1

 No.27489

>>27486
>>27487
''Psh, you thought I would flunk this recruit-level test?'' I reply to the voice nonchalantly as I blast the last poor drone
'3d10+1'

Roll #1 6, 8, 5 + 1 = 20

 No.27490

>>27488
"Hey, what's goinHEY!" Ijapa yells out as the crowd suddenly compresses around all of you. All of you are pushes and shoved until Ijapa and Alba's weight pushes your mech to the floor!

*Crack*

Your canopy has a bunch of lines running through it now! Get control of your mech and try to stand!

"Yo', you okay!?" Ijapa shouts through the radio, but his voice carries through just fine since he's on top of you.

Roll Tech

 No.27491

>>27490
goddamn piece of-
'1d10+2'
"Gimme a second"

Roll #1 1 + 2 = 3

 No.27492

>>27489
The Drone goes through its explosion animation as your shots go through the center, causing everything inside to detonate.

"What's that, you want it harder? Can do." You can hear the clacking of a keyboard. "I dug this baby out of some archives and decided to try my claws at it."

A virtual garage opens up and out comes another Drone sized ship, but this one packs an impressive punch as it starts shooting right out of the gate! '1d10-3'

Roll #1 3 - 3 = 0

 No.27493

>>27491
You hear some shouting through the crowd even as the bodies remained piled up on you.

Oh, and the bottom part of your canopy cracks even more. It'll obscure your view entirely if it keeps going…

Roll Tech once more!

 No.27494

>>27492
>>27489
The shots, while impressively sized, go wide and miss.

 No.27495

>>27492
>>27494
''…Uh, was it supposed to be shooting at the ground?'' I raise an arm to point at it while asking with some sarcasm

Well let's put it out of it's misery and use up the last bullets in this magazine
'3d10+1'

Roll #1 3, 4, 9 + 1 = 17

 No.27496

>>27493
Kick a few things, and pull some levers. This is why I do my own repairs! '1d10+2'

Roll #1 6 + 2 = 8

 No.27497

>>27495
Consecutive shots take a penalty, remember?

Your shots start zero-ing in on the ship. Each one closer and closer, until they start bouncing off! There's something in front of the ship taking the hits!

 No.27498

>>27496
The mech starts pushing up on the two or three bodies pushed on it, but all you get is a few kicks to the 'head' and 'shoulders' as you stand up.

"Hey, what's going on?" Ijapa says, bracing himself on you. "I can't get a good look through the crowd!"

[Pause for Frank]

 No.27499

>>27497
"Oh, I see what your game is now"
Same maneuver as before, this ship is big so it must be slow
Let's boost off its sight to flank it after
'1d10+2' agility

Roll #1 1 + 2 = 3

 No.27500

>>27499
There's something strange about this ship. It matched you move for move, and now it's behind you!

'1d10-3'

Roll #1 10 - 3 = 7

 No.27501

>>27499
"Come on, come on! I thought you said it was easy…" The smug voice yells you as your shields are brought down to 7!

 No.27502

>>27501
''Ungh, yeah, but what I meant with that is that easy ain't fun''
Let's try to find a break to reload while trying to get some distance from it

 No.27503

>>27502
Your ammo count goes back up, but the other plane keeps it's nose towards you. Something about it prevents your shots from getting through its front…

"Hey, make this fun for me. I spent a long time making this!"

It takes a few shots. '1d10-4'

Roll #1 2 - 4 = -2

 No.27504

>>27502
The other plane is mocking you. It shot in a heart pattern…

 No.27505

>>27503
''Oh you're so dead…''
While it's busy mocking, try to circle, let's see how accurately it can track me
'1d10+2' agility again!

Roll #1 3 + 2 = 5

 No.27506

>>27505
You pull back on the throttle just as the plane gets close to taunt you! It spins to miss you, but now you're behind it!

 No.27507

>>27506
NOW Unleash the bullet hell
'3d10+1'

Roll #1 6, 8, 1 + 1 = 16

 No.27508

>>27507
You broke through the shield!

"What, no way! This isn't over, I just need to juke you!" The plane is darting like crazy, keep up with it and match it with your Agility!

 No.27509

>>27508
Just before the gun jammed again too, great
''Bitch please, watch these moves''
'1d10+2' I am the juke master

Roll #1 6 + 2 = 8

 No.27510

>>27509
"I'm not going to lose to you!" The radio shouts. "Just a bit more!"

You've got the plane in your sights!

 No.27511

>>27510
''You sure?'' with a bit of playfulness in my voice, I am and fire
'3d10+1'

Roll #1 1, 5, 9 + 1 = 16

 No.27512

>>27511
*Click*

*Click*

Another jam!

"Don't mess with someone who has command line access!"

 No.27513

>>27512
''Aargh seriously?''
Evasive maneuvers while I deal with this jam again!
'1d10+2'

Roll #1 9 + 2 = 11

 No.27514

>>27513
"Hey, don't forget about me in all this!"

Beat this Agility Roll '1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

 No.27515

>>27514
S-she's fast
'1d10+2' don't fail me now mech

Roll #1 3 + 2 = 5

 No.27516

>>27515
The plane manages to do some improbably maneuver and gets an angle on you! '1d10'

"Let's see how you like it!"

Roll #1 9 = 9

 No.27517

>>27515
And there go your shields!

 No.27518

>>27516
>>27517
''Okay now you're just cheating''
Let's see how it likes some retribution then, I can play this angle game too!
'3d10+1'

Roll #1 6, 4, 5 + 1 = 16

 No.27519

>>27518
Smoke comes out of the enemy plane.

"If I'm going down, I'm taking you with me!" The radio shouts in anger as the plane starts acting erratically.

Actually, it's trying to get close and ram you!

 No.27520

>>27519
Noooooope!
'1d10+2' I'm dodging that by quickly flying up!

Roll #1 6 + 2 = 8

 No.27521

>>27520
The enemy plane overshoots trying to collide, letting you easily turn behind you.

"Oh no, no, no, no…"

 No.27522

>>27521
Shake my head and cross my mech's arms ''Well, you tried, at least, hehehe''

 No.27523

>>27522
"No, I can still do this. I can still… I can't do this."

The screen goes black as the Simulator returns to it's resting position. You hear the pins on the Simulator start getting released…

[Paused]

 No.27617

>>27498
Numerous shouts can be heard from the crowd as they run past you, each one adding more and more pressure to you, keeping you down. At last, the pressure starts easing as the crowd starts thinning. Your cameras show Ijapa trying to stand, but the crowd hasn't completely dispersed.

"Mom! Where are you?!"

 No.27618

>>27617
Take stock of the damage. Is it worse than just the cracked canopy? Because I can deal with that.

 No.27619

>>27618
Nothing else than chipped paint. Some of the gears were stressed, but nothing they can't handle.

"Hey, you two okay?" Ijapa helps Alba off of you. "This happen all the time here?"

"Mommy!"

 No.27620

>>27619
I'll gently as I can separate myself from whomever else is on me.
Since I'm probably shorter than most of the crowd, even in-suit, I can't see what's got everyone running around, can I?

 No.27621

File: 1498344948280.jpg (1.89 MB, 4000x2667, prisonguns.jpg)

>>27620
Your mech is of average height. In fact, most of the people either think you're a Computron or a generic helper-robo.

You can see what's got everyone running around, and it doesn't look good. A load of obvious gangers are walking around. They're flashing weapons all over and acting tough, threatening the few people that remain. Looks like they haven't come your way yet, but the crying kid nearby might attract attention.

 No.27622

>>27621
I'll grimace at that.
Especially since just straight up settling the problem is probably not in my best interests right now. Starting a firefight in a crowded market is not the best way to make good impressions.
"Ijapa, we've got a group of thugs down the way there. Looks like they're behind the stampede. Miss Alba, is there a security force that can remove them?"
As for the crying kid, I'll see to him after I get this answered.

 No.27623

>>27622
"Yeah, I'm waiting on orders or backup, but let's follow the crowd and go be somewhere else." Ijapa says, putting an arm on his weapon but not drawing it.

"Uhm, I can call the security force, but they might take a while…" Alba curses under her breath. "I didn't think they'd be active like this when they saw us mobilize."

The few remaining stands were already halfway through chucking their goods in lockers and closing up. There's a few injured people getting up, but none of them are claiming the child.

 No.27624

>>27623
"Right. I'd suggest getting the security force, since I get the feeling those guys aren't going to be leaving anytime soon."
On private comms to Ijapa, I'll continue.
"I'm going to talk to the lost child over there, since him crying might attract attention. Plus I'd feel like crap if he ended up getting stepped on in the rest of the crowd's panic."
I'll head over to the kid. Squat down, if necessary to look a little less threatening.
"Hey, are you alright?"

 No.27625

>>27624
"Let's grab the kid and go." He responds. "They can deal with this when we aren't here." He's looking more like a proper security guard, moving where he and Alba won't be seen.

"Mister Robot?" The child asks before hugging you. Some of your sensors flash yellow for a moment.

 No.27626

>>27625
Yellow? That's not right. '1d10+2' tech to determine what just happened/went wrong.
"Yeah, that's me, just a friendly robot. Did you get hurt anywhere?"

Roll #1 7 + 2 = 9

 No.27627

>>27626
Looking at it, you can see the kid had a personal defense item that made contact with the mech and triggered some of the sensors.

"I want to go home! Take me to mommy!" The child's downy feathers are marked with dust and dirt from the crowd and their own tears.

 No.27628

>>27627
"What does your mother look like?"
What's a kid doing with a PDI? Is it like a taser or something?

 No.27629

>>27628
Roll Street Smarts.

"Don't you know Mister Robo?" She asks, hyperventilating a bit before calming down. "Oh, my ComLink has a picture!" She takes out her phone, a few tears managing to trickle down her face.

"Hey, let's take the kid and go. Miss Tour Guide here will clear us if anyone says anything."

 No.27630

>>27629
'1d10-1'
"I've just arrived to this place, so a picture would help. However, we should probably move to the side, so we don't block the street. And we might get a better view elsewhere."
To Ijapa:
"I thought we were waiting for the security detail anyway?"

Roll #1 8 - 1 = 7

 No.27631

>>27630
Around you, there's vendors peddling those type of items. Plenty of signs and a few vidscreens showing how to use them.

"Yeah, but I don't like the look of those gangers. Any of us would be juicy kidnapping targets." Ijapa responds, keeping an eye around the corner. "Hey, Tour Guide, any place we can get out of here?"

"Uh, yeah, okay! Everyone started screaming here, and I got scared." The child shows you a pretty basic ComLink, worn from use, and brings up the picture of her mother. You're no Xenospecialist, but you can see the signs of alcoholism.

 No.27632

>>27631
Man, I do not have the freedom to solve everyone's problems.
"I'll take a quick look around to see if she's in the crowd, but if I can't see her then we'll have to move with my friend over there, okay? We won't be going far, so there's no worry of that."
Stand to my full, if average, height, and scan the crowd. Anyone matching her coloration/description?

 No.27633

>>27632
The child nods as your radio turns on. "I can get us to the warehouses. The elevator there is code locked for those floors." Alba says, pulling up a map for everyone to see.

"Not too far and away from here, I like it." Ijapa says.

As you look around, there's no one that looks like the childs mother. There's a few drunks around, but they've got the good sense to take cover and hide for the moment.

A bullet is shot into the air by the gangers and the kid hold tight again.

 No.27634

>>27633
"Well, kid, I can't see your mom from here, but it's too dangerous to stay. I do have some work to do, but do you want to come with us for a little while?"
I sound like a child abductor. But the kid might go along with it because they've got their sidearm. Which honestly is still not bright of them.

 No.27635

>>27634
"Uhuh," the child nods. "just don't leave me. It's scary when everyone leaves me."

"Listen, there's a side route we can take, but we don't know what's going to be waiting for us there. You okay with that boss?" Ijapa asks.

 No.27636

>>27635
"Just stick close and we should be alright."
I'll hold out a hand for them to grab.
"Harder to get separated if we hold hands."
To Ijapa:
"Can't be worse than a bunch of thugs in the main street shooting at things because they're bored."
I'll send off a small notice to the rest of the away-team's security escort mentioning the lost child and the picture of their parent. It's not high priority, but if they run across them then it'd help if they shot me a line.

 No.27637

File: 1498349793670.jpg (207.5 KB, 1920x1080, Dxhr_2011-08-28_20-58-18-7….jpg)

>>27636
"Alright, looks like they're on their way, but they're going to hold their position. If we get in trouble, they'll come in." Ijapa says as everyone starts sneaking around, the kid grabbing you as hard as they can. "If we can get out on our own, they'll move on and not cause trouble."

The heat of the equipment and steam coming out helps conceal you, but also hides some of the people who are taking their chances and running.

"Dang it. Looks like the're another group ahead." Ijapa states before tightening his grip on his weapon. "Think that mech of yours can handle some flying?"

 No.27638

>>27637
"It's built for it, but don't send me underwater or anything. The cockpit cracked a little during the rush."

 No.27639

>>27638
"If you can, get the kid to the higher ground. You got all those sensors in there, right? THink you can lead us through this mess?"

 No.27640

>>27639
"Aside from the steam blocking certain sections, yeah probably. Not sure how safe it is to have the kid hang on while I'm heading up, though."

 No.27641

>>27640
"Better with you than with us. At least the kid can stay out of sight over there." He lowers his voice into the microphone. "I think I saw some of them taking drugs. I'm wearing an official looking suit. They see me, they start shooting…"

 No.27642

>>27641
"Fair enough."
Then, external speakers.
"Hey kid, you ever fly before?"

 No.27643

>>27642
She shakes her head. "No… Mom says my feathers won't come in for a while."

Roll Tech.

 No.27644

>>27469
"Ironically yes, you are being rude, though perhaps not in the way you believe. However, You are correct about our purpose here."

 No.27645

>>27643
'1d10+2'
"Well, this is going to be a little different."
Switch modes.
"In this case, you just have to hang on tight."

Roll #1 9 + 2 = 11

 No.27646

>>27644
"Ah, sorry, sorry! I'm sorry!" She cries out before a duplicate of her comes by and knocks her gently on the back of her head.

"Is my sister annoying you?" The more dour copy asks. "I apologize on her behalf. She was born that way. I'm her sister, and her boss, Zupa."

:Hey, don't say it that way!" Pazu shouts back. "I'm just about to make sure we get where we need to go. I even called the Lift while you were saying that stuff." Pazu turns to you. "Did you bring anything along? The elevator will take us a few floors from where we have to go.

 No.27647

>>27645
She nods and holds on appropriately, maneuvering around your transformation. The kid doesn't move too much, making it a smooth flight upwards.

"So, what do you see?"

Your radar gives you a souring image. There's another group on the lower floor that might converge on Ijapa and Alba.

 No.27648

>>27647
Are they armed?
"There's a group heading towards you, not sure if they're armed or just civilians."

 No.27649

>>27648
"Dang it. Let's assume the worst for now. See anyway out for us? Anyplace that isn't here?"

 No.27650

>>27646
"Annoying? No, she is actually proving quite entertaining."
Remember to take a few quick pictures of the two of them for Friend-Duana. She ought to find the disparity between what is typically considered 'short' and her own size amusing.
"We are ready to go onwards and perform our task whenever you are, Merchant-Zupa and Merchant-Pazu."

 No.27651

>>27649
Well, how's the ground layout from here? Any side streets I can send them down, circle around?
"Give me a second. If I can't see a good route, you two might have to duck into a building or alleyway until they pass you."

 No.27652

>>27650
"Thanks." They say in unison before realizing what they did. Zupa puts her hands on her head and runs back into the crowd.

"Sorry about that. We work for Agari Solutions, which runs this place. They'll take a cut of the profits, but we aren't technically the ones selling it to you guys." One of her ears perks up for a moment. "Alright, looks like it's going to be just the three of us for the moment. We're getting one of our guards assigned to us."

Your lift arrives, making a loud noise as the rest of the Ankylosaur guards and Sela Security personnel are running around.

"We usually keep good notes, but I still have to ask. Is this your first time to an Agari licensed world?" She starts walking to the lift.

 No.27653

>>27651
There's lots of side routes and alleyways, but just as many 'dead ends' that stop at cargo containers being used as warehouses.

Looks like there are two of them. If they rush, they should have a clear line to the elevator. However, there seems to be a way around them, but it'll take longer. Which will you send him through?

 No.27654

>>27653
"If you two book it, you should be able to run straight to the elevator and get there before they reach you. There is a long way, though, if you don't think you can go that fast."

 No.27655

>>27652
Go ahead and board the lift with her.
"This drone has not, but Voldra have been on Agari-licenced worlds before, just not for the collection of goods."

 No.27656

>>27654
"There's someone coming…" The child says, clinging to you in the opposite direction of the noise.

"Sounds fine to me. Less time here the better. See you in a few." Ijapa says as he darts off with Alba.

>>27655
"Oh good, then I can just give you a quick overview of the place as we go down. Most of these facilities follow the same pattern. THe only real difference you can see is over there!" She points to a few buildings spewing smoke as the Elevator goes down. "We've got a lot of production facilities here. Think you can guess why they're here and not on that big island ALL THE WAY over there?"

 No.27657

>>27656
Up here?
"Where do you see them, kid?"

 No.27658

>>27657
"Behind us, they're walking over here Mister Robot." Just like the child said, your sensors pick up someone walking towards your general area.

"Hey, how far is that other group? I don't want to run into an ambush." Ijapa asks over the radio.

 No.27659

>>27656
"So that if there is a catastrophic containment failure you can detach the breached section and sink it to the bottom of the sea before it contaminates the rest of the facilities?"

 No.27660

>>27656
>>27659
Also taking more pictures on the ride down. Never too many pictures!

 No.27661

>>27658
I'll check the radar again for Ijapa.
"Hang on, it looks like we've got signals from behind too."
What can I see of the group behind us?

 No.27662

>>27659
"Wait, what, no!" She seems flustered, her ears constantly bobbing up and down like they were trying to give her lift. "Why does everyone say that? We've gone a week without a major accident!" She says proudly. "No, the reason is because the ground is crazy tectonically active. It's fine to grow food on, but not build a house. The land will knock it right over." She says the house part with a bit of sorrow, clinging to the protective screen on the lift. "Say, let me ask you a question, if you don't mind that is."

 No.27663

>>27661
That there isn't much of a group on the floor with you. Someone broke off and seems to be running towards your area, but not exactly at you.

"They don't want us to cause trouble, but think you can find a hiding spot and a weapon?" Ijapa responds as he runs with Alba.

 No.27664

>>27663
"You think I wouldn't bring at least a pistol? Come on now, I know I'm just here to carry stuff but I'm not that trusting of the local security. With good reason, it looks like."
As it is, I'll fly over to the warehouse roof, being careful not to dislodge the kid, and keep an eye out from there.

 No.27665

>>27662
"But we have seen the detachment charges on similar facilities…"
"Of course you may ask questions! We are happy to share any knowledge or advice that we can!"

 No.27666

>>27664
Roll for cover.

You see some rather thin Alien punk walk towards the edge, near where you were. It's packing a pair of pistols, but it doesn't have them in the grip you'd associate with someone looking to shoot. It's got big ears, and you can see them moving around like a radar dish.

"Just what I wanted to hear. I see the door up front. Don't lag too far." Ijapa says.

>>27665
"Okay, thanks. So do you have a home to go WHAT? What detachment charges!? What are you talking about!?" Her whole attention is focused on you, but she occasionally turns to scan the area.

 No.27667

>>27666
'1d10'
Well, he doesn't start shit I won't start shit.

Roll #1 5 = 5

 No.27668

>>27667
The alien punk walks up to the ledge. Pulls out a pack of grenades, and starts lobbing them erratically. Sometimes he aims it at group, one time he just took a step back and chucked it as far as he could. He reaches for his pistol.

"WOOOOOOOO! How do you like that!?" He yells out to no one as the shooting spreads out like crazy.

"What the heck, everyone's opening fire!? We're crawling here and the bullets are close! What do you see up there?!"

 No.27669

>>27666
Aaand snap a quick picture of her expression.
"…Were you not aware? We apologize, we were under the impression that Agari Solutions had also included measures to evacuate their workers before detaching the breached section."
"In regards to your other, unfinished question, the answer is a bit more complicated. There are places where we raise our young and where our queens reside, but they often shift and change and move, sometimes over the course of a few months."

 No.27670

>>27668
"It's some retarded punk with grenades! He started everyone else off."
I'll speak to the kid.
"Is this a common thing around here?"

 No.27671

>>27669
Pazu clutches her heart and takes a breather. "Okay, at least we won't be here if it happens. I hope. Say, you guys wouldn't be hiring right now, right?"

 No.27672

>>27670
The child just holds on to you and the cheap taser as explosions start ringing out.

"Get the kid out of there! It's a rumble or something, but we're not being targeted yet!"

 No.27673

>>27671
"For the human colony ship? You would have to ask them, or someone from the security team. If you are asking if the Voldra are hiring, then there are several projects that may welcome some outside experience. Are there any particular qualifications you feel are relevant and worth noting?"

 No.27674

>>27672
Right.
Zooming around to the back of the warehouse building. Can't go too fast since I don't want the kid too fall off, though.
"Hey, Ijapa, you're at the door, right? Is it open?"

 No.27675

>>27673
"Tons of marketing experience. I'm sure needing PR is something every species needs, especially someone new to the scene. Please give them our resumes." She says earnestly before her ear goes back up. "Looks like our stop is coming up soon. Please have all limbs and antennae away from the protective mesh screen, as people have lost them on it."

The lift stops and opens up, revealing a vast labyrinth of cargo containers and people a few flights of stairs below. Compared to the orderly style of the Humans, the folks here seem like squatters, some containers turned into homes.

 No.27676

>>27674
"I'm getting there. I can see it now, but I don't like the sound of this gun fire." He responds. "But we'll be there soon. Think you can make it, or will you try to fly out of Sela? Alba says the floor below us is only storage, no people."

 No.27677

>>27676
"Well, if it's open long enough I might just fly in through the door. Should be large enough, right? Or is it a single-door? How does Alba feel about me breaking windows, if the door's not an option?"

 No.27678

>>27675
"Transfer a copy of your resumes to this drone, and we will make sure it gets to the humans who can do something with it." We ARE responsible for incoming transmissions, after all. A potential new friend for the humans would likely not go amiss.
Snap a few pictures of the squatters and container-homes for Duana.

 No.27679

>>27677
"Just get out of this storm of bullets!" Ijapa says as he gets cut off by the increased gun fire.

You can hear the child breathing harder, even feel the tension through your machine.

 No.27680

>>27679
"Hey, kid, it'll be alright."
Descend to the ground floor area. There are windows here? Or a door maybe?

 No.27681

>>27678
"Thanks, thanks. It's not a bad place to live, it's just, it has its quirks. The Fold Crystal storage is locked behind a few doors, we'll be accompanied by one of our guards. Oh, there he is!" Pazu points to a very tubby Alien, who looks like he has the mass of several Voldra.

"Oh, someone's finally going to check on the Fold Crystals? Thought it would never happen." He says as he waddles over. "Name's Reiz, pleasure to meet ya!" He's got a big smile, befitting his large size.

>>27680
There's a few emergency doors you can open. Watch out for the wind pressure.

The kid just holds on tighter.

 No.27682

>>27681
"Right, I'm gonna switch modes real quick and open this door. Okay?"

 No.27683

>>27682
The kid nods and holds on tight after the change. You can already feel the door rattle as you reach for it.

 No.27684

>>27683
Probably due to the grenades.
While standing to the side of the door, I'll open it. Is it locked, or keypad sealed, or does it swing open?

 No.27685

>>27681
We'll have to remember to transmit those resumes as soon as she sends them. In the meantime, snap some pictures of the massive alien, making sure Pazu is in-frame in some of them for comparison.
"Greetings Guard-Reiz, we are Voldra. We appologize for any delay in our arrival; some space pirates were very persistent when we attempted to leave port."

 No.27686

>>27684
There's a keypad, but it's a basic model. The door swings in, so be careful of that. The pressure difference might fling the thing off.

>>27685
He and Pazu are taken back in surprise.

"Pirates, here?" He asks with concern.

 No.27687

>>27686
Right. I'll tech through the keypad '1d10+2', since that should give it a minute to equalize pressure.

Roll #1 7 + 2 = 9

 No.27688

>>27686
"No, back at our last jump from the Resempian planet. They were not much trouble to deal with, just an annoyance that slowed us down.
Though we were under the impression that armed gangs were not uncommon on Agari-licensed planets. Is it different here?"

 No.27689

>>27687
Looks like there was an imitation trap added in to this. You're able to go through the system cleanly before it went off. The metal bars holding the door unlock. You just need to push.

>>27688
Pazu's face can be seen turning red, even under her fur. Reiz just looks a little disappointed. "We've got our fair share of trouble, but at least it hasn't been too much here. Look down, most of the folks here don't cause all too much trouble."

"Oh, right, I'm supposed to take you to the Fold Crystals. You two have your ComLinks ready? I'll sync you with me so we can go in."

 No.27690

>>27689
Pistol out, open the door while standing to the side. Just in case there's someone on the other end.
"Stay behind me, kid. Just in case."

 No.27691

>>27689
Pazu is very expressive; the humans are sure to like that. They enjoy displaying emotions loudly.
"Very well. Ready to sync ComLinks."

 No.27692

>>27690
The only thing waiting for you is the wind. It's hitting hard at this altitude and there's very little area on the outside to walk with.

"We're at the elevator. You still inside?"

>>27691
"Alright, both of you are in. Just don't stray off. Some of these doors up ahead will to lead nowhere. It's a mixed up design place." He walks slowly, but he's the only one who can lead you to it.

Roll Will, something is weird here.

 No.27693

>>27692
"Very well, Guard-Reiz."
'1d10+2' Weird is often dangerous; is this where the excitement Friend-Duana wanted to see happens?

Roll #1 9 + 2 = 11

 No.27694

>>27692
"Just coming in. The door I found was boobytrapped, apparently. Nothing big, but I took care of it. We're entering now."
Making sure to keep my off-hand within reach/grasp of the kid, I'll head inside. After we're in, I'll reseal the door.

 No.27695

>>27693
There's a possibility of that, as you sense numerous Fold waves coming from all around you. Different strenghts and wavelengths, but they almost all seem 'weak' with the occasional flash of strength.

"Here we go, room 2AC. Tell me what you think. Or not, I just work here." Reiz says as he opens the door, revealing all manner of properly secured Fold Crystals and catalysts.

>>27694
You can hear the metal bolts fall into place and help drown out the gunfire.

"It's cold." The child says bluntly, but loosening their terror grip from before.

[PAUSE]

 No.27696

>>27695
"A little, yeah. Sorry about that, I wasn't expecting things to go so wildly out of control back there. Are you okay otherwise?"

 No.27697

>>27696
The feathery child nods. "I… I'm okay." The wind out here is strong, plus the occasional strong burst. Bursts strong enough to add more damage to your canopy as the cracks spread.

There's a narrow set of stairs on the outside of the facility, some leading up and others down. There isn't much room to walk for the larger aliens, but your mech can handle it fine. There is lots of trash, blankets, and a few other aliens just sitting down. Some look at you, covered in clothing, but they don't really make any action towards you.

 No.27698

>>27697
They'd best keep it that way.
"We just have to make it to the ground floor, and we'll meet back up with my coworker and miss Alba."

 No.27699

>>27698
"*Heavy breathing over the radio* They don't tell you how heavy this thing is. You're so lucky you don't have to lug it around. *Breathing* I'm not hearing any bullets flying by on your end, is everything good? Can you meet up with us?"

"Then, can we go to my mommy?"

 No.27700

>>27699
"Everything's clear so far. A lot of homeless, it looks like, but no trigger-happy thugs. We're heading to the ground floor now."
Then, to the kid.
"That's the plan, kid. Before we came out this way, I radioed the rest of my group to keep an eye out for her, too, so if they find her before we do, then they'll notify us."

 No.27701

>>27700
"You should be seeing my position on your overlay. Bird Lady here says it should be two flights down. Bring the kid along, any place is better than where you were or are."

"Thanks mister robot!" The kid is excited for a moment, but a gust of canopy damaging wind hits and she clutches onto you. This time, there's no electric shock going through the system.

The steps downward haven't been maintained. There's a few gaps where an Alien might not have had trouble, but a damaged mech with a child on it might. Roll Tech and Street Smarts.

 No.27702

>>27701
It's a she? Well, regardless, looks like she lost her taser. That's not good.
'1d10+2' tech
'1d10-1' smarts
"If we can't take the stairs, there should be enough room in the center for me to descend in the other mode. Hopefully. I'd have to do a test run before I'd risk putting you in danger, though."

Roll #1 7 + 2 = 9 / Roll #2 8 - 1 = 7

 No.27703

File: 1498702629930.jpg (137.69 KB, 640x445, offshore-worker-on-the-pla….jpg)

>>27702
I messed up my pronouns.

You guide the mech downwards much more easily than should have been possible. The wind was constant, spreading more cracks through as now half of your canopy was full of damage, but no major gusts to knock you around happened.

Near the other door, there's a group of three other Avian aliens. However, they stay covered and don't make too much movement. You see one move a steel pipe by it, but the group of three stays there, just observing so far.

 No.27704

>>27703
I don't think you ever clarified, and I never really asked. I'm not going to make weird guesses about what's under the bird bits.
And if those don't start trouble, there won't be trouble. Though I suppose I can see if they're in the mood to answer a question or two.
"Is that door locked?"

 No.27705

>>27459
>>27462
"Come on, let me through… Official business here!" You see a small alien push through the security guards and other staff. She's about half their height, with even you in your one-way canopy can look down at her. "Sorry, I apologize for taking so long. People don't know what they put us small folk through just to get around. Sheesh, anyways, I'm Zupa! I'm here to take you to inspect a batch of Fold Crystals. This way while we wait for the Lift to come back up please. Is this your first time on one of our floating cities?"

 No.27706

>>27705
"Affirmative, that equals true."

 No.27707

>>27704
"Yeah, you're going to need the code though."

"It's a security thing, so we can't just give it out to no Computron."

"But if you have something valuable, we might see ourselves willing to trade for it."

They respond, one after the other. The kid hides behind your mech leg.

 No.27708

>>27707
"I believe I already have a code, if it's the same as the top door's."
I should probably remind you that I do still have that gun out. It's not currently pointed at anyone, though.

 No.27709

>>27706
Your microphone picks her up yelling: "Yes." in a whisper. "Ahem, Welcome to Sela, the latest outpost from Agari Solutions! As you can see, we use only the best materials to build our facility to provide work and home for our employees and visitors!" She assumes a very business-like pose as she continues. "You'll notice that we designed it so that the factories are away from the citizen housing, making it clear that we care!"

"Didn't expect a full on speech, you know." Bostaur says. "How'd you rate it?"

The lift arrives.

 No.27710

>>27708
"Nope, won't work."

"We know, we changed it."

"So you have to pay a toll if you want to continue." Despite having beaks, they give you a cheeky smile. Your camera catches the kid trying to slim down their feathers to better hide.

 No.27711

>>27709
"Beep boop, generating rating based on similar experiences… Quarry, what is the metal composition of 'best materials to build our facility'?"

 No.27712

>>27710
"Well, you're out of luck, because the only thing of value I have on me is bullets, and you wouldn't enjoy being paid with those. Now, I am in a hurry so if you don't open the door and stand aside, I'll have to take somewhat drastic action."
I'll pause for a moment.
"I'd prefer if we could settle this peaceably."

 No.27713

>>27711
Bostaur just laughs as he heads for the Lift.

"That's a trade secret, but it's the strongest iron, steel, AND space ship materials we could land!" It's easy to see she's into it. "Come on, once the lift goes down, I can show you a few other things."

>>27712
"You think you can take us?"

"You got a virus or something?"

"Did they fail to knock some sense into you?"

They get off the guard rail and stand up, weapons visible. A cheap hand gun, a bat, and a pipe.

 No.27714

>>27713
"Material class lookup error. Space ship materials are not a scientifically recognized way of calling stuff. Chairs can be space ship materials when you think about it. Beep."

Is there a good view from the lift?

 No.27715

>>27713
Casual murder isn't something I want to expose a kid to.
"Kid, we're going to go with plan B."
Holster the pistol real quick, and shift modes.
"Grab on."

 No.27716

File: 1498704805952.jpg (333.79 KB, 1842x853, deus ex hr China.jpg)

>>27714
"You'll have to ask the Corporate office for that information. A simple Secretary like me isn't privy to that information. How sad, don't you think?" Roll Street Smarts.

The view from the lift is great, as you can see a huge chunk of the facility. The top is mostly flat, suited for storage and shuttle movements. As you start heading down, you can see different floors seem to have their flare and purpose. One floor is packed with equipment, but there's a few tents with people moving around. The next floor has more containers, but lots of people seem to have turned them into houses.

Your guide is staring out of the lift, her ear and tail moving quite a bit as Bostaur focuses on the radio.

 No.27717

>>27715
"Huh, what are you going to do?" Your pressure sensor jumps up a little, but still in the green as the wind does more damage to your canopy.

 No.27718

>>27523
>>27522
"I'll make sure to win next time." The giant Alien who opens your simulator says, offering you his hand to climb onto. "You're going to have to tell people you lost to Bok one day, you know."

 No.27719

>>27716
'1d10-1'

"Housing issues detected."

Roll #1 8 - 1 = 7

 No.27720

>>27717
"We're going to go down."
And once I'm sure the kid has a good grip, I'll take us off the walkway and speedily descend to the next catwalk. Or the ground floor itself, just to cut out any further encounters.
'1d10' agility, +2 if I recall the rules rightly for aerial maneuvering in plane mode.

Roll #1 3 = 3

 No.27721

>>27719
"We, ran into some issues. We got more, uhm, visitors than anticipated. Speaking of which." You can tell that the last part their distressed her, and her emotions have become more reserved as she went on.

Her ears constantly jump towards you, only to turn back just as quickly. Even her tail acts like she's going to move. You see her fidgeting around her purse, looking for something.

"Uhm, can I ask you a question?" Bostaur looks at her, but shrugs. He's leaving it up to you.

 No.27722

>>27720
>5
"Whoa!"
"Look out!"
"Get out of the way!"

The three avians hit the deck as you transform and fly off with the kid, who holds on well for someone her age. A few of the people look on in surprise, but those that do make sure to take their moment to give you a wide berth.

"Wow, fast." The kid says as she tries to regain her balance.

 No.27723

>>27722
"I could go faster, but I don't want you falling off."
How far am I from Ijapa's signal?

 No.27724

>>27721
"Proceed."

 No.27725

>>27695
Take a few pictures of the interior of the room and the Fold-crystals, though they aren't really the focus so much as an aside while this drone scans the room.
"We think that it is strange for there to be Fold signals coming from the walls, instead of the crystals."
'1d10+2' Will

Roll #1 3 + 2 = 5

 No.27726

>>27723
Not too far, you'll just need to override the door again. Your camera shows the three Avians staying put, but you'll have to rely on them as the cracks have spread to 80% of your canopy. You'll have to eject it if you think it's going to break and shatter all over the control.

>>27724
You can see her take a breath, fiddle with something in her hands, stnad up straight, then lean over, putting her at ankle height with your mech.

"It's an honor to meet you. I'm Zupa Dzu of Agari Solutions. Please, take my card. If you're hiring, I'd be honored if you considered me and my sister."

You can see her shaking as she holds her pose with her arms outstretched.

 No.27727

>>27725
There seems to be a Fold signature that is "moving" more than the others. It doesn't spike or drop in power, it just moves around you.

"There shouldn't be too much of that. The walls are secured just so people don't try to sniff them out so easily." Reiz responds with some confusion.

 No.27728

>>27726
Grimace a bit at that.
I'd rather not leave this thing just sitting around in this neighborhood. It'd be stripped down in minutes.
Come in for a landing at the door, let the kid get off and back up a bit, then shift modes back to landwalker.
Then, it's time to open up that door. '1d10+2' tech.

Roll #1 10 + 2 = 12

 No.27729

>>27718
''pshuh, as if I'd ever lose to a big no brainer like you. Now let's get to the food alley already I'm starving''
Jump off the machine and onto his digits, hold on tight
''And just don't drop me!''

 No.27730

>>27728
There was a lock there. Now it's gone. You've got full control of the lock, so you can mess with the Avians by changing the codes all you want right now.

Everyone looks at you and the kid as the door locks open up. Even the wind is silent as the door pops open, the entry tube just ahead.

 No.27731

>>27726
"What is the purpose of this company?"

Carefully remove card and examine it.

 No.27732

>>27730
Take a moment to flip them the bird, then usher the kid inside. I'm not petty enough to randomize the lock codes on them just yet, so I'll set it back to what it was before.

 No.27733

>>27729
"What, I've only lost five times so far. I can still turn it around before this journey is over you know." He lifts you up to his face, with his long face and thick horns being his most prominent feature. Despite that, the rest of his clothes are the traditional, sloppy computer nerd. "Maybe you should lay off the snacks though. You're much heavier than you look you know." He brings you up to his shoulder as he heads out the door.

 No.27734

>>27733
''This is part of training idiot! I need to get body mass so I can turn it into muscle'' I lean on the side of his head with a hand anf flex my other arm

 No.27735

>>27727
"Are the entrances secured as well? Because there is something odd in here."
Perhaps it is just the crystals? It is possible, though it would be wiser to be cautious without need than to be caught unawares.
We check the crystals to see if the signature is coming from them. '1d10+2'

Roll #1 3 + 2 = 5

 No.27736

>>27731
It takes a brief moment for the computer to translate it, but it's a business card. It's tied into her social media account too, so you can message her in numerous ways, even through ComLink number changes.

She shoots right back up, still nervous. "Agari Solutions is formed by several different companies across four species. Our most important goal is to terraform new worlds that all of our clients can inhabit! If your situation fits that of our current clients, I'm sure we could bring you all aboard!" She starts turning red a bit. "But I know you're only here temporarily! But still, the offer remains if you want to join us, and if you bring us along, I'm sure we can make the transition smoother!"

 No.27737

>>27732
>90% canopy damage
The air pumps kick in as the door closes, equalizing the pressure as the outside door locks itself.

>"Pressurization Complete"

The automated system says as the other door begins its unlocking procedure.

"Hey, you got in fine?" Ijapa says over the radio. "Tell me which door you're at and we;ll head there."

 No.27738

>>27734
"Yeah right. You just can't get enough of those Lazti cakes. They disappear all the time yet you're the only one I see eat it. Do you Humans have an extra dimensional stomach or something?" Bok asks as he leaves the testing room. He walks towards the cafeteria, making sure to stick to the Macro lane painted on the floor as humans and cargo trucks that look like toys at your height pass you on the side. "Tell me, how bad did you want to go down to the surface?"

 No.27739

>>27737
"I'm at the, uh…"
I'll check my scanner. How far am I from him, anyway?
As for the canopy, at this rate I'm just going to have to pop it off… Shame on me for forgetting a helmet.

 No.27740

>>27736
"Logic error. Robots don't need an environment. I'll tell the giants about this though. Beep."

I should text the Doc though.
hey, r we 🗸🗸🗸 gud 🗸🗸🗸 4 🔁tf🔁 new planet 🌏🌏🌏 2 😲breathable😲 and stuff? 😍😍😍

 No.27741

>>27735
"Yeah, only people with the authorization code can come in, and they don't share that lightly." Pazu says. "In fact, ours is only good for just one hour, and the doors we use are tracked."

There was a fold signature, behind you to your right. Now it's on your left, towards the way you had come in.

 No.27742

>>27738
''Not my fault they're so damn sweet, and yes you could say we have that. Food is a really big deal for humans so we make, sell and hoard a lot of it, if you think I'm looking heavy you should see what actual obese humans look like''

I sit down on his shoulder, turning my head to face his huge cheek ''What kind of question is that now?''

 No.27743

>>27739
You do have a helmet with some built-in underwater abilities.

From the inside of your mech, it's easy to take off the canopy. Just a few handles hold it in, so it goes down quickly, with the Kid staring at it before looking up a bit and locking eyes with you. The kids eyes go wide.

Inside the room, your signal improves and you can see he's actually at the other end of the area you're in. The door finishes it's opening procedure, revealing another area with improvised homes and a really bad smell.

 No.27744

>>27741
Turn around and try to see if this drone can spot the source of this moving fold signature, strengthening our shielding just in case.
"Then can you explain why there is a fold-source moving around in this room?"
'1d10+2' Barrier

Roll #1 5 + 2 = 7

 No.27745

>>27743
I'll wear that helmet.
"Hey, Ijapa, looks like you're just at the other end of the room I'm in now. I'll meet you in the middle. Small problem, though. Canopy took way too much stress damage so I had to drop it. I hope you can prep miss Alba for the surprise."
And now for the kid.
"So, ready to keep moving? The two people we were with earlier are just at the other end of the room. We'll be meeting them somewhere near the middle."

 No.27746

>>27740
"Thank you." She hops a bit in excitement, still not reaching your cockpit height. Bostaur just smiles and raises an eye as the Lift continues moving down.

>"Not enough equipment on the Ankylosaur to terraform the Doc says, if that's what you're wondering. Keep your helmet on in Sela she says. The Oxygen levels can get low at times. t. Duana. Doc needs a lesson in communication, wouldn't let me send a proper reply unless I did it this way."


>>27742
"Yeah, and I don't think I want to. If you keep eating like that, I'm not going to be able to keep carrying you around you know. You'll knock me straight to the ground." He laughs back.

"I know you really wanted to. If you want to talk about it, I'm here. We're coworkers and neighbors, that's what we're supposed to do, right?"

 No.27747

>>27744
"Ow, ow!" Pazu shouts as she gets lifted into the air, her arm turned behind her.

"Didn't expect the rumors to be true like that." A voice from behind Pazu says. You can see organs start appearing, floating in the air, as a see-through, fish like Alien appears.

 No.27748

>>27746
>🎣 Pitch 🎣 from 👽 terraforming 🌏🌏🌏 💲 company 💲 wants 2 🏎 ride 🏎 w/ us, u want card pic 🎥🎥🎥?

 No.27749

>>27745
"Ugh, I'd rather not. Can you find something to cover yourself up or somethin'?" Ijapa says over the radio, already making his way over.

"Yeah, but, uhm…" The kid keeps staring at you. "You're not Mister Robot, are you?"

 No.27750

>>27746
I cross my arms, leaning on his neck, looking down at the vehicles below''Maybe, yeah but that's not something I really want to talk about, if ya don't mind''

 No.27751

>>27749
"I've got my helmet. Maybe we can just pass me off as a plug-in operator, since it's not efficient to have me walk around in the suit all the time? Think she'll buy it?"
To the kid:
"I am, though it was supposed to be a secret I'm actually really small."

 No.27752

>>27748
>"Doc says to send it. She also wants more messages, for study purposes."

The lift rings as it reaches its floor and opens up. Ahead of you, you can see a very clean area. Lots of Aliens wearing clean business suits and walking around with trays with strange items on them.

Zupa rushes ahead, like a small child, then turns towards you. "Welcome to one of our Fold Crystal storage rooms. On this floor, we examine and sort them before sending them out. Do you want to examine a few of them?"

>>27750
"Yeah, I know. I'm just here for you if you want to talk." Bok and you enter the cafeteria, only half-occupied at this hour. Lots of Aliens are using the seats at this hour, but you also see the human staff at the registers.

"So, what do you want before we head back?"

 No.27753

>>27747
"Then perhaps seeking more knowledge first would have been prudent. Considering what we can infer about your possible role, you should know how dangerous an unknown opponent can be."
We can't charge in while he's holding a hostage, and there's not much information to go on about motives or intent. We should be ready, but wait and observe. Perhaps this can still be settled peacefully.

 No.27754

>>27751
"I can keep it a secret! But, uhm, can I hold you first!?"

"Yeah, I'm just going to tell her you're a decoy, to fit with some of the rumors."

 No.27755

>>27752
Shrug ''Pasta, eggs, or something with lots of protein''

 No.27756

>>27754
Hmm. Is this like when people want to hold small animals? It has to be.
"I'm afraid I'm on the clock, kid, but if you want you can take a picture."

 No.27757

>>27752
Snap a pic and send it. "Yes, that should be the first priority."

 No.27758

>>27753
"That's why we are here." Pazu squirms, but the Fish Alien doesn't release her grip. "Or at least, part of the reason." She puts a very large gun towards Pazu's relatively small head. "We're just here for a snatch and grab. A handful of the stuff here will fetch a nice price. Don't try anything dumb and we can all go on with our lives."

>>27755
He puts you down on the Human track with all the Human food. It's sorted out in buffet styling. Plenty of protein to pack into your plate. Bok settles for a salad, but a very large Diet drink you think is almost the size of an oil tanker truck. Even the other Reptilian Alien in line stares.

"So, how has Ankylosaur life been treating you? Have you gotten used to the snoring and being the only human surrounded by so many 'Giants'?"

 No.27759

File: 1498709979958.jpg (313.73 KB, 1920x1038, mars war logs.jpg)

>>27756
"Nuh uh, I'm going to pick you up, then I'll take a picture. Besides, my ComLink has a low battery…"

On the other side of the door, the situation seems both dire and stable. Lots of shanty style housing with improvised homes and horticulture. However, there doesn't seem to be trouble on this floor. Most of the Aliens are just lounging about, a few working on random items. Looks like a supersized version of the Ankylosaur after 50 years.

"Try not to get into trouble. Already walking towards you."

 No.27760

>>27758
''Awful'' I speak up getting some boiled eggs, chicken and sweet potatoes up in this place
''No I haven't gotten used to it, I miss my old HQ, my friends and family, and the blankets are almost sheets from how thin they are''
take my tray and find somewhere to sit ''But hey, I just have to think of the pay and the fact this won't be forever and this becomes a little more bearable''

 No.27761

>>27758
"Unfortunately, the humans need these fold-crystals. We would throw your warning back at you, but you have already tried something dumb. Leave now, and we will consider the matter closed and pursue no further."
Snap a picture for Duana of the hostage situation; she will appreciate not missing out on this.

 No.27762

>>27757
>"Doc says thanks."
>New Message: Doctor Zorani would like to join your message group
>Accept: Yes/ No

"Come this way and I'll show you to your display room. We get a lot of clients coming here! We've gotten so many recently." She looks up to you with a big smile. "Watch your step though. I don't want to be stepped on."

 No.27763

>>27759
Ugh, don't imagine that. Please. No way in hell I'm staying on that tub for 50 years.
"Like I said, I'm on the clock. Though I'm pretty sure you could plug your comlink into this thing and charge it. What kind of plug does it use?"
We'll be walking and talking, hopefully.

 No.27764

>>27762
Sure! Accept. Pick her up without warning, high enough that she can see over the crowd. "Vision sensor efficiency increased with altitude."

 No.27765

>>27760
"Uhm, I can't do too much for you. Here, maybe you can use this as a thick blanket." He puts a napkin next you while he has a giggle. "It's still going to be a while. Why not ask Cuvy if you can bunk with her? Maybe having a room mate will help?"

>>27761
"Heh, pretty good. Almost had me worried." The see-through Alien laughs as Reiz slowly raises his hands up.

"You're in no position to make demands." A Reptilian Alien with a strange suit appears besides Reiz. "Besides, if your client is what is worrying you, then we can negotiate."

"We aren't after this riff-raff here. Mister Security Guard, if you'd be so kind as to guide us to the pièce de résistance they told you never to mention, we'll take it and be on our way. Simple as that." Pazu squeaks in pain, but doesn't move too much with the weapon aimed at her head.

 No.27766

>>27765
lean my head on my hand, idly playing with my food ''First off I'm not using a alien-grease covered napkin to cover myself, and second, maybe that could be an option if we were talking about a human roommate''

 No.27767

>>27763
She shows you her ComLink, bringing it much closer to you than your mech's head. You can see it's old, and getting it charged might take some work. There's a garbage pile with lots of scrap and refuse. Might be able to scavenge something from there. Roll Tech and Street Smarts if you want to do so.

The floor of this facility is quiet, except for the occasional wind and large radio. A few people move out of the way as your Mech moves by, giving the 'Computron' some distance.

>>27764
Bostaur looks surprised, as does Zupa. "Well, yeah. That's obvious." Zupa says professionally. "From this height, I could even reach the top shelves everyone hides stuff in." She starts smiling, but tries to repress it. "Let's focus on the task, take a left at the next door and we've got some samples for you to try out."

In the room, there are three Fold Crystals that have been put on trays and left for you.

"We've got a few Fold Crystals with rather unique abilities for you to try out, since we don't have too many records of Computrons using it like we do. The first will make anyone nearly invisible in the visible spectrum. The second allows for short range teleportation. The third one provides illusion capabilities. Which one do you want to examine first?"

[Pause]

 No.27768

>>27765
"We are not making demands, we are asking you to leave. The alternative is much less pleasant. Besides, the humans likely need what you are trying to steal."
Take another picture for Duana, so that she sees the reptilian too.
"We are being accommodating. Please do not force us to change that."

 No.27769

>>27767
Probably shouldn't, somebody might start screaming they own this garbage.
…hell, what's the worst that could happen?
'1d10-1' smarts
'1d10+2' tech

Roll #1 2 - 1 = 1 / Roll #2 4 + 2 = 6

 No.27770

>>27766
"Fine, I'll get you a clean one then." He pulls out another and sets it next to you. "I'll use them if you don't want them." He smirks before going back to a normal smile. "C'mon, just ask her. I think just spending time with people will help make the journey better. I know she's a bit more, 'touchy-feely', but I'm 100% sure it'll do you better."

>>27768
"You're not in much room to say stuff like that, unless your client wants these two added to their bill." The Reptilian states as Reiz starts moving towards a door.

"Listen, this was part of the deal with the Humans. Just this and another pile. I'll take 'em to what they want, no worries." Reiz says, worried and sweating as the Reptilian hides behind his considerable heft.

"See, nothing to worry about. We'll be out soon enough." The Fish laughs. "Open it, but do it yourself. Don't let the Guard put in some silent alarm or something." The Fish says to the Reptilian. "Besides, what can you do?" The Fish responds, but this time focuses on keeping her eyes on you.

>>27769
Looks like someone threw out some cables that would connect to her ComLink. They're torn, but shouldn't be much for you to fix and splice together to make a functional cable.

As you start moving some of the plastic bags and large pile of loose clothing, you reveal a drunken hobo. He seems to be looking right at you…

 No.27915

>>27770
Cover him back up, he was probably sleeping.

 No.27916

>>27770
''With People?'' turn to him and raise a brow before I turn back to my food ''Yes, maybe you're right, but she's not people, she's an alien, so thanks but no thanks''

 No.27917

>>27915
He's got a second set of eyes that are completely shut, but the open pair follows you for a moment. Seeing no maliciousness in your actions, they spend some time focusing on a nearby garbage bag before going back on sentry duty.

"He smells of booze, like my mom."

>>27916
"See, that's what keeps you locked up on regular guard duty. If you want the big jobs," he giggles for a moment, "you're going to have to learn to get along. She's going to be your best bet since you lucked out and got that room separate from everyone else."

 No.27918

>>27770
Tilt our head at Reiz when he says it was 'part of the deal.'
"Guard-Reiz, please clarify what you mean by it being 'part of the deal.' This does not seem like standard procedure for distributing purchased goods."

"We can ruin your day, if we deem it necessary. Fold crystals can be very dangerous, after all. But that would not benefit the humans, and at present you are not a big enough threat to justify it."

 No.27919

>>27917
He's watching the cables, isn't he?
"That's not really surprising, kid. People do a lot of things to cope with what happens to them. Some better than others."

 No.27920

>>27918
"Those two rooms contain what the Humans ordered. We got a deal for so many of them. But…" Reiz gulps as he looks at a whole different door. "That one right there. The code is 7303. Just, don't hit the Enter key and wait." He starts sweating profusely, his already large size making the sweat come off extra strong in the smell department.

"I don't like how you put it, but let's run with it. We are here for something specific. I mean, you could tell, I saw it in your face when you saw the Fold Crystals here. They aren't exactly spectacular, right?" Again, she breathes in and moves Pazu around slightly, who squeaks under the pressure. "What we're after is a singular item, that's it. You can have the rest.

After inputting the code, without entering the last key, the door opens to reveal an empty room. Everyone looks at the door silently.

Roll Street Smarts.

>>27919
"I know. That's what mom says. But I wish…" She looks down beat. "Oh, uhm, I know! Do you have cameras on your body you can look through, like a robot? Do you have a knife?"

"Since you aren't shouting into the radio, I assume everything's quiet on your end? I got another two peeps from Sela Security here with me if you need the help."

 No.27921

>>27920
"Just making a small pickup, is all. We'll be there shortly."
Can I get those cables? gingerly, mind you?
And, to the kid:
"In that order? Yes and no. Why do you ask?"

 No.27922

>>27920
…That probably isn't good.
'1d10-1'

Roll #1 6 - 1 = 5

 No.27923

>>27917
''Look, I'm not here to 'get along' with others, Bok. I'm here on Duty, if I want the big jobs I have to show that I can do the small jobs so THEN I can be trusted with the big jobs'' Snap at him, then realize I might be speaking a little too loud so I turn back to my plate and idly play with my food

 No.27924

>>27921
"Try to meet us, but don't spoke anyone. Let's keep it nice and easy and finish the job."

The hobo's second set of eyes are just looking around, but it doesn't seem he'll do much else.

"I know how we can keep your secret, but it's going to smell. Real bad."

>>27922
The See-Through Fish lady's eyes narrow, and you could see her heart skip a beat.

"It's empty!? What trick is this!?" She walks up to Reiz and puts the gun up to his side. "Explain or I shoot you in both your legs!"

Pazu struggles with the Fish Lady's grip, trying to loosen her fingers.

 No.27925

>>27924
I'll just pick them up then, while he's looking a different direction.
"Well, kid, if your plan is to cover me in garbage, that… might not work, since I already called ahead to my coworker to explain how tiny I actually am. I appreciate the idea, though."

 No.27926

>>27924
Take another picture, with the empty room in the frame to provide some context.
Is there an area nearby that would be out of the line of fire that I could teleport somebody to?
"You are acting rather rashly. Perhaps you should take a deep breath and try to calm down."

 No.27927

>>27923
He leans back and sighs.

"It's not that easy. I should know, it's why I'm on a spaceship headed to some corner of the galaxy instead of back home, rotting away in another apartment." He puts his fork down and just looks at you. "If you can't get along with others, no matter how skilled you are, you're going to keep getting overlooked." He stops for a moment before smiling. "If you really want to move up, it's not done alone."

 No.27928

>>27927
''Well gee thank you for sharing your amazing alien wisdom with me Bok, now if you excuse me I'm going to finish my food so I can go to my room and reflect on what you told me alright? Thanks''
Let's finish the damn food

 No.27929

>>27925
The kid continues to dig in through the trash despite what you told them. "Yeah, but what about everyone else? You didn't tell me until it cracked." The child pulls out a raggedy looking towel with some alien lettering and a very dirty blanket. "Here, if you can cut a hole, you can wear this! And it'll keep you warm and secret!"

"I'm a block away, almost there. Just locking onto your transmitter." Ijapa says.

 No.27930

>>27929
Thank god this thing has air filtration.
"If it makes you feel better, kid. We'll try the towel, since I can mostly see through that, even without the cameras. But, we've got to do this on the move so we can meet up with my coworker."
In the meanwhile, I'll splice those cables together. '1d10+2' tech
Should be able to do that with the tools on-hand and the bot's autopilot handling the whole walking thing.

Roll #1 5 + 2 = 7

 No.27931

>>27926
You've got access to the rooms with Human Fold Crystals, right now the two thieves are busy arguing with each other.

"You said it was here!"
"I know, the guy promised me it was! Even paid up front!"
"You never told me about that!"

The See-Through Fish looks at you in anger, then just tosses Pazu to you, like she was some stuffed toy. "Catch!"

>>27928
"Need a ride?" He asks."Oh wait, you don't want to hang out with people…"

>>27930
Getting the cables to work properly isn't too difficult. They're simple materials, and one of the connection ports just needs to be straightened out.

"Okay!" The kid says, the smile visible from the other side of the towel.

"Woah, that is some funky fashion sense you got there." Ijapa says over the radio but on the other side of the street, flanked by additional security. "You sure you want to be seen with that? I think even the Computron's will take offense if people associate them with it." He says with a laugh.

 No.27932

>>27931
"Okay, kid, here's a charge cable for that comm of yours. We can run it off my battery for the moment, but once we get to where we're going you're going to have to find another outlet to plug into."
And, to Ijapa:
"Desperate times, you know. I'm just lucky these helmets have air filtering. And I haven't heard any word on this kid's parents being spotted, so I guess they're sticking with us for the near future because apparently I am a giant sap."

 No.27933

>>27931
Catch Pazu, holding her close enough to talk to her quietly.
"Get behind me, and then get to safety," I whisper to her, "We'll take care of this."
Then set her down and push her behind me.

 No.27934

>>27931
''Yeah? Well whatever. I can get to my room on my own, you can fuck off if you're gonna be like that''

 No.27935

>>27932
"It's why I'm working for you, so I'm not going to knock that part of your species." Ijapa says as he walks up to you. "Well, looks like the bosses want you to do the job anyway after the Mayor sweet talked them. Let's bring the kid along because I'd rather not drop them off here either."

"Yes, well, thank you for your help in getting us out of that scuffle." Alba bows, as do the Sela security guards after some prodding by her. "Now that the trouble is behind us, we can head towards the storage area."

"Oh, oh! Are there other people like you there!" The kid asks.

>>27933
She feels her neck as she takes some deep breathes after being tossed around. "What are you going to do?" She whispers from behind you both thieves have their weapons aimed at Reiz.

Then the empty room starts lifting up, slowly and silently.

 No.27936

>>27934
"You do this all the time." I'll see you back at the simulator if you think you've cooled off enough." Bok takes his plate and leaves, leaving you by yourself in the sparsely populated cafeteria.

 No.27937

>>27936
At least now I get to eat my food in peace…
good old peace, yeah

Let's finish with this quickly so I can lay down, the simulator isn't real but the fatigue it brings definetly is

 No.27938

>>27935
"No problem, miss Alba. Lead the way."
To the kid:
"I don't think so, they got sent to other warehouses. I could be surprised, though."

 No.27939

>>27935
"Optimistically, defuse this situation without anyone being hurt. Realistically, hurt these two very,very badly. Do you know what they are after?"
Ooh, take pictures as the room changes; humans like technology, so Duana should enjoy this!

 No.27940

>>27937
You'll have to take the lift at the end of the table to get to the floor, then it's going to be quite a walk back to your apartments. Roll Will to see how far you make it.

>>27938
You see Alba reach into her suit and pull out a few cleaning items. A lint roller for her suit, and a make up mirror, as she walks to the elevator.

"As you can see here, most of the citizens of Sela are more 'agreeable'. Alas, all places of the galaxy must deal with these types of issues, and we already have by calling in most of our security forces to deal with the fracas. I'm sure we'll find the child's family soon enough."

"Maybe they'll let me pick them up." She says smiling, but staying close to you as you walk past simple, improvised homes. At least the area is clean. Roll Tech as you approach the Elevator.

 No.27941

>>27940
"I'm sure."
'1d10+2' tech
To the kid:
"I know at least one would, kid. Actually, hang on, I can't just keep calling you 'kid' all the time. What's your name?"

Roll #1 10 + 2 = 12

 No.27942

>>27939
"No, I didn't even know we had a 'special' batch. Well, I knew there had to be. There would be in a place like this, but I didn't know where or what it is. I mean, I just work here and all…" She holds close to you, much like Duana would try to do on the Ankylosaur.

The Hidden room lifts from sight, bringing up another room, this time with much better Fold Crystals, even from a casual observation.

"See, now put the guns away and take what you want. We're just employees here, we don't need whatever you two are involved in."

Roll Will.

 No.27943

>>27940
My will is like iron!
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

 No.27944

>>27941
This floor was meant to be empty. Following the cables and water, you see that they were pulled out of the walls. Nothing is to code here.

There is no code here.

"Oh! I'm Cana!" She runs ahead of the group. "Nice to meet you!" Then she runs back to you.

"At least someone from the riff-raff has been taught manners. I'll make sure your teacher gets a few extra credits added to their account." Alba says, clicking on the elevator. "Despite not being what I would like at all, I'll deal with it as it comes. As soon as the elevator arrives, we'll head straight to your destination.

You see a bunch of children play near the loose pipes.

 No.27945

>>27942
"If things turn south, this drone will be occupying all of their attention. You need to be ready to put as much distance between yourself and this drone before that happens. Do you understand? If we tell you to go, you go."
And a few more pictures of the nice crystals, maybe for comparison later.
'1d10+2'

Roll #1 9 + 2 = 11

 No.27946

>>27944
"Nice to meet you as well, Cana."
oh my god am i having a fucking stroke
how do they let things get this bad
But it's not my job to fix it. Not right now. I am here to load and unload shit. Not make unsolicited comments on the absolute garbage state their warehouses are in.
"Well, for the most part we're at least back on-track, miss Alba. So there's that."

 No.27947

>>27943
You get past the cafeteria and the usually crowded line into it. The walk through the shopping area was a bit harder, since the holo-ads and Alien vendor from Sela made it hard to get past. You wind up in one of the hallways with an elevated Human path. It looks like a long park, but there's a few Aliens talking with people there and a number of folks sitting down.

At this point, it might be a good idea to call for a ride…

 No.27948

>>27945
"Yeah, that sounds fair. I'm okay with that, but you'd better follow. Don't get hurt."

Lots of high quality Fold Crystals in there. They actually have a clean sound to them when you listen to them. But then you start feeling a headache again, lighter than before. Inside the room is an axe made from a Wasp's shell. Worse, nearby is some item made out of another Drone.

The Reptilian leaves Reiz's side and starts going through the Fold Crystals.

 No.27949

>>27946
"Yes. The warehouse is solely the city's property. I'm sure the rest of it will be a simple matter of inspection." She says.

The Elevator jams a bit as it arrives, the two Tusked guards having to brute force the door. "Uh, yeah, we'll get that fixed." One of them says.

As they load everyone into the elevator, you can see a whole bunch of Sela branded airships loaded with security officers move in. "Pay them no mind, they're just doing their job. As soon as we arrive, we'll finish just as quickly."

The Elevator arrives just as it starts squeaking. The two guards ready themselves, only to stop a very occupied floor. There's a lot of people here, all dressed in regular citizen clothing.

"What, what is this?" Alba yells at the guards.

 No.27950

>>27948
"You underestimate this drone's capabilities. Besides, it is important that the humans get their crystals."
They have turned our corpses into weapons? It is fairly creative of them, but we do not remember allowing this. At least, we have not given any drone corpses to the Agari Corporation.
"Guard-Reiz, where did the Agari Corporation get those weapons?"

 No.27951

>>27950
"I, I don't know. They just tell me to guard the main door and wait for people. That's it!" He shouts with worry.

"Well, tell your bosses to keep it up. These are going to fetch a nice amount for us. Just keep cooperating and this all has a happy ending, especially for us." The See Through Fish says to both of you.

 No.27952

>>27949
"Did the elevator jam?"
Private channel to Ijapa:
"I'm not liking this so far. Keep your gun clear."

 No.27953

>>27952
"It's only a foot higher than normal, it's fine." The security guards add non-chalantly as they get off.

"Yeah, I remember what happened last time." He says, showing you his weapon and his hand on it.

It's a very crowded floor. Lots of different aliens here carting around all sorts of items. There are stalls all around the circular hallway with peddlers. Cana seems to be accustomed to it, since she doesn't react too much. "There's a nice stick meat vendor here. Sometime's mom would come home with his food, maybe we can stop for some?"

Roll Street Smarts

 No.27954

>>27951
"We do not remember authorizing the Agari Corporation to create weapons out of our corpses. We do not like having our dead used in such a manner without permission."
The Wasps probably didn't give permission either, so that axe is worth confiscating as well… provided that it does not jeopardize the delivery of the Fold crystals to the humans.

 No.27955

>>27953
"Maybe, kid. But I'll need you to help keep an eye out for me. Last thing I need is to get shoved over again like in the market outside.
'1d10-1'

Roll #1 3 - 1 = 2

 No.27956

>>27767
"The first one comes first. Begin with the first one. Buzz beep."

 No.27957

>>27954
"I didn't even know we had such things here." Pazu says.

"They've been moving lots of things in and out recently, too." The corpulent guard says.

"Looks like you'll be busy too, Mister Bug." The Reptilian adds. "We're after a few things only. Wonder what else you'd find if you looked." He smiles back at you as his accomplice moves some items into a container.

>>27955
Your guards and escort move into the crowds, headed to the warehouse. The people here give them some distance, far more mindful of their weapons than the other people were. You see Abzu's normally stoic face change repeatedly in various forms of disgust.

It takes you a while to notice, and the child seems unfazed by it, but this floor has effectively been converted into a giant brothel.

 No.27958

>>27956
Zupa picks up the tray and brings it over, but even holding it abover her head, she barely passes your mech's knees and you have bend down a bit to pick it up.

This Fold Crystal lives closer to its name, far more shiny and clear than the one you encountered, the one that drained you of energy. Picking it up, you can already feel a lot of energy starting to flow around you and your mech.

How much power are you going to put into it?

Roll Street Smarts.

 No.27959

>>27958
'1d10-1'

Roll #1 2 - 1 = 1

 No.27960

>>27959
Everything in the room seems normal.

The Fold Crystal starts having an effect, drawing off the ambient energy of your mech. You can see it's arm start to disappear.

 No.27961

>>27960
Set it back down! I don't want to lose my mech!

 No.27962

>>27961
You put it down quickly, giving Zupa a shock and she jumps after it you set it back down. Bostaur looks on in interest, but uses his hands to hide his expression.

"Well, dind't expect that…" Zupa says, catching her breath. "Maybe we'll hold off on using it, but as you saw, it's extremely effective, even at low levels.. " She stands up straight, though still requiring you to look down, "Do you want to try another one? I'm sure you and the others will like them more."

 No.27963

>>27962
"Beep. Continue."

Pick up item 2!

 No.27964

>>27957
Well, I guess there's a market for everything here. The fact the kid's not really bothered means that these things aren't really secrets.
Keep an eye on the kid at all times, but keep in mind I am here on a job.

 No.27965

>>27963
"Okay!" Zupa hurries over to the tray to retrieve it. "I don't know how well Computrons can handle this one, but some of our associates have been able to teleport into the next room over with this one." She offers up the tray over her head this time, to reduce the amount of leaning you have to do.

How much Fold Energy will you channel into it?

Also, roll Street Smarts again.

 No.27966

>>27965
Teleportation seems like it could use a lot of power. On the other hand, I don't want to warp out of my mech. Try a medium amount.

SS '1d10-1'

Roll #1 2 - 1 = 1

 No.27967

>>27964
Except for the difference in size between you and the other aliens, it really does seem like a normal bazaar. People selling the things you normally got in your inbox, 'motel' coupons floating around for special rates whose only difference is that they are the size of billboards to you, and other such items.

"Hey, I got some genuine Pevuran horn substitute here! Just as good and half the price!" A 'well dressed' alien walks up besides the guards and offers, then turns to the kid. "Oy, if it isn't little Minorca! What.. are you doing here? With them?" His face turns serious.

 No.27968

>>27966
Bostaur needs to stop playing with his radio.

You channel Fold Energy into the Crystal, only for your surroundings to change color and even feeling, and then you are outside and falling! You've teleported out of the Lift door you came in!

 No.27969

>>27957
…What exactly is the item made from a dead Vodra drone? An axe is a simple enough concept, but what did they intend to use our bodies for?
Something seems off about these two. We're split on how we want to deal with them; some of us would rather avoid conflict if possible, as they are not our problem, but some of us counter that they may become our problem later if we do not stop them now. If nothing else, their methods are suspect, and taking them down might earn enough goodwill to make them more amicable to our confiscation of the weapons.

 No.27970

>>27968
Why? Radios are made to be played with.

Er, did my mech come with me?

 No.27971

>>27967
"She was lost in the market outside when that gang started making a fuss. We're keeping her company until her mother is found."
I'll turn slightly to "face" the guy.
"I had assumed an armed escort would be safer than letting her get caught up in that."

 No.27972

>>27969
"Listen, maybe we got off on the wrong foot. Or whatever you call your limbs." The Reptilian smirks. "We're almost done here. Stay where you are, don't move, and everyone goes home. Or whatever you call your place you live? Is it Hive? I don't want to be rude, I'm just asking."

The See-Through Fish lady is going through a few of the safes, but she lives many of them alone. Seems she's after something specific.

As for the item, part of it is covered up in cloth. What it's made of is obvious, though.

 No.27973

>>27970
The full thing is there with you. The red warning lights are on as your body starts pushing against the safety restraints, and they have a lot of body to push against as you fall!

>>27971
His amphibious features are obviously studying your 'face', though you'll have the advantage in this duel.

"Yeah, it was loud and scary, but he helped me get out! We even got to see the outside of the Sela! It was windy." She adds, much more depressed at the end.

"Well, at least it ain't me your mom is going to go all out on. I guess I have you to thank Computron for keeping her little girl safe."

The guards have kept pace, leading you to a big door to the warehouse. A crowd gathers behind you.

 No.27974

>>27973
Hey! I resemble that comment.

Thrusters go! Try to thrust just enough to balance against gravity, coming to a stop.

 No.27975

>>27973
Long as they don't try nothin' there won't be nothin'.
Man, I hope what they need me to carry can be done in one trip…

 No.27976

>>27972
"A more literal translation of our concept of home would be 'Refuge,' but most other races refer to them as Hives, so it is less effort to let them call it what they will.
We must ask though, why such blunt methods? Surely whatever organization hired you could have acquired what you seek through other, less conspicuous means, such as paying off a loading crew to 'misplace' the items in question. Such blatant robbery is unlikely to go without consequence, for them and for you. Unless you are meant to be disposable?"

 No.27977

>>27974
The thrusters slow down the mecha, bringing it to a stop in front of a lift door. It opens up to reveal Bostaur running towards it at full rush with Zupa far behind. A few of the other workers seem frantic.

"You're okay…" He manages to say after taking a deep breath.

>>27975
"Listen, I'll take her off you and get her home. Least I can do after you took care of her." He says as the door opens to reveal the equipment in various states of neglect and disrepair. Roll Tech.

A lot of the people are staring in, looking on in surprise as the guards get in front of the doors.

 No.27978

>>27977
'1d10+2' tech
"While I appreciate the offer, I don't like leaving things half-done."

Roll #1 6 + 2 = 8

 No.27979

>>27977
"Beep," I reply, forcing the mech manipulators into a rough thumbs up.

 No.27980

>>27976
"Opportunity called and we answered. Simple as that. Don't worry, we have our way of vanishing after this." He's got a cheeky smile.

The See-Through Lady gets up and puts the Axe in her container, plus rolls up the Voldra item as she takes that with her. "We're done here." She says to the Reptile before turning to you. "Now, get out of our way and we're done."

 No.27981

>>27978
"Alright, just be careful around there. I kept offering her my place, but she insisted on living there." He says as one of the guards keeps him back.

The equipment inside is dirty and hasn't been checked in some time, but whoever worked on it was pretty thorough. Items are sealed properly. There's an item list on the table, written on actual paper. Even with all the dust that had fallen, you can see that the place was maintained, since many tools are on their respective benches instead of on the floor.

 No.27982

>>27979
"Come on, get in. I was worried when the radio cut out." Bostaur says, offering you his arm to guide your mech in. "The Lift is gonna come down on you otherwise."

"Amazing! No one's gone that far. We didn't know Computrons were that Fold capable! Zupa walks up to Bostaur, her eyes seeming growing three sizes in surprise.

 No.27983

>>27981
"I appreciate your concern."
Alright, time to see what we're working with here.
"Cana, you can come inside, but you can't touch anything, okay?"

 No.27984

>>27982
Use his arm to lever myself back onto the ground where I can cut thrusters instead of recklessly thrusting forward.

"It would be illogical to send an inspector with low Fold compatibility, beep. Computer people are all about efficiency, boop."

 No.27985

>>27983
"He keeps using my last name. It annoyed Mom so much, but she never told him." She says. "Yeah, okay. I know when things are dangerous."

The Landing Gear here in this warehouse has been disassembled, but there are still huge parts that reach towards the roof. There's a lot of markings on them, notes left behind in numerous alien languages.

"I hope they meet your vessel's, exacting, standards. It took us a while to find and make these available." Abzu says, tapping away on her datapad.

 No.27986

>>27984
"Well, that does make sense." Zupa says, looking down. "But I didn't think you'd be able to do it so well, through."

You see Bostaur keep messing with his radio, only for an ear piercing noise to come out of his and in your cockpit. A few of the staffers with headpieces yank theirs out.

"Ow, you okay in there?" Bostaur asks. "You get that noise too?"

 No.27987

>>27986
"Geez, ow. That uh, blocked my sound sensors with unnecessary loudness."

 No.27988

>>27985
"Good girl."
To Abzu:
"I hope so as well."
Time to go over the parts. Ijapa can help run down the checklist as we find everything.

 No.27989

>>27987
The lift door opens u behind you, revealing a group of Aliens with a bunch of improvised weapons starting to rush in!

>>27988
Overrhearing that it's just a bunch of landing gear, the people on this floor go back to hawking their wears.

"Want me to have them close the door?" Ijapa asks. "Do you want to inspect this stuff up close?"

Roll Tech.

 No.27990

>>27989
"Rules of engagement?" I ask Bolstaur curtly.

 No.27991

>>27989
"I should be able to inspect it well enough in-suit, but… closing the door will keep prying eyes and sneaky fingers out of here. The guards can only look in so many directions."

 No.27992

>>27989
>>27991
And tech because I hit post too early. '1d10+2'

Roll #1 5 + 2 = 7

 No.27993

>>27990
"You can blow them up if they try anything, right? Let's stand down and find out what they want." Bostaur gets his huge hands into the air, signaling to you to follow.

"This is a robbery! Everyone stay calm and everyone gets out easy peezy." One of the masked aliens shouts to the staff. They spread out, with some of the staff immediately hitting the floor while Zupa hides behind your mech's leg.

>>27991
>>27992
"Alright, just tell me if you need a lift." Alipor signals to the guards, who close the door from the outside to make sure no one else tries to get in. The doors shut with a loud thud. Abzu waits on her data pad while Alipor heads to a Diagnostic Table that was brought in ahead of you.

Cana eagerly awaits you to get out.

[PAUSE]

 No.27994

>>27993
>alipor
Ijapa, Knight.
"Right, Cana, if you could give me a lift over to the table, there."
I'll hunker my suit down and, datapad in-hand, head to the edge of my cockpit and await the no-doubt eager child's grip.

 No.27995

>>27994
Cana puts both feathery hands up, waiting for you.

"Once we make sure this is what we need, we'll signal for them to start hauling it up top. No way me and your robot are going to be able to take this stuff up ourselves." He smiles as he looks at the direction of the door. "I'm sure the people outside are going to want to offer their, uh, services to them."

 No.27996

>>27995
"I'm sure they are. If we had some sort of roof-access elevator, that'd be best, but… not sure there is one."
Well, I guess I'm hopping down.
"Hey, kid, don't drop me, okay? It's a long way down from here."
And down we go.

 No.27997

>>27996
"Probably hauled in from an old space ship. Way this place is, I'm sure you'd find enough pieces of them to build a few." Ijapa adds.

"I won't, promise!" She shouts excitedly as you head on her hand. "But, wow, you're heavier than you look."

The landing gear seems more imposing now that you're at Cana's height, but you've got work to do. Roll Tech as Cana looks you over with her curious child eyes.

 No.27998

>>27997
"True that, but like hell I'd want to fly one."
Teching '2d6+2'
"Well, Cana, I have been told I'm pretty dense."

Roll #1 4, 4 + 2 = 10

 No.27999

>>27980
A collective sigh runs through the Voldra as they pick up the two items they really shouldn't have. A quick consensus determines that negotiations are too likely to fail for attempting it to be worthwhile; these two have been cordial, but unwavering in their pursuit of these items. That leaves one option…
"You really shouldn't have taken those last two items."
Two Bolts of Fold energy are fired directly at the Fedora-Fish.
>'4d6+2' '4d6+2'
>Bolt: two attacks of equal strength at a single or multiple targets.
>Foldborn: roll twice for abilities, then pick one result.

Roll #1 3, 2, 6, 3 + 2 = 16 / Roll #2 1, 2, 2, 2 + 2 = 9

 No.28000

>>27998
Cana brings you towards a few plates put on the floor by the previous crews, meanwhile Ijapa brings around the files he picked up. It takes very little work to understand the symbols on the piece, as they seem to indicate which cabinet and which screws and bolts go where. While you can see more wear on them at this distance, nothing some work can't fix.

"So, what do you think of Sela so far?" Ijapa asks, double checking his list.

 No.28001

>>28000
"Well, it's… certainly pretty active. Haven't really wandered the streets, but aside from what happened earlier it seems fairly stable."
What else we got, aside from the landing gear? It's not the only thing in here, is it? What about diagnostic tables, or any of the other half-million things we need to keep that boat running?

 No.28002

>>27999
"Wha!" The Lady goes flying back into the wall, creating a small crater around her impact point! The Fold Crystals nearby react and begin glowing brightly, but the Reptilian pushes Reiz at you in the confusion! He takes a few shots as he disappears.

However, a whistling like sound can be heard, but it's drowning out the Hive…

Silenced Blaster '2d4'

Roll #1 2, 4 = 6

 No.28003

>>28002
Good thing you have a built-in shield. But you can feel it rattled a bit.

Voldra 21/20

 No.28004

>>28001
Just the Landing Gear in this warehouse. Digging through the notes, the last mechanics mention the location of several electronic equipment items stored elsewhere.

Plus, more than a few threats and complaints about pieces going missing.

"Hmm, as much as I'd like more solid ground under me, I wouldn't mind a chance to walk around. Might be a while before we got a planet to breathe in all we want." Ijapa says, only to let out a whimper as Alba silently appears behind you.

"Neither of you are what I was expecting, but if you want to look around, there are a few, much more secured, areas I could recommend."

 No.28005

>>28002
>>28003
Unnerving, but not a crippling handicap yet. Hopefully this drone's basic combat knowledge is enough for this fight against two lightly-armed robbers.
Fly up enough to push off of Reiz and jump towards where the Fish hit, Reinforcing the shields as this drone flies.
'2d6+2' '2d6+2' Barrier
>boosts shielding by 2d6.

Roll #1 4, 6 + 2 = 12 / Roll #2 5, 2 + 2 = 9

 No.28006

>>28005
"Woah." Pazu says as the air around you crackles with energy.

"Where, where did they go?!" Reiz shouts as he tries to find either thief. They've both disappeared!

The light and whistling of the Fold Crystals grows louder as your connection loses strength…

 No.28007

>>28004
Hmm. We'll have to make sure they're there when we go by them.
"And we'd love to see them, just as soon as we're done making our rounds ma'am. Business before pleasure, and all that."

 No.28008

>>28006
"Stay back, Friend-Pazu!"
They have what they are after, so perhaps they are attempting to run for the exit?
Move to block the exit and scan for the Fold signature we saw when we first encountered them.
'2d6+1' movement
'2d6+2' Will check to find Fold Signatures

Roll #1 1, 1 + 1 = 3 / Roll #2 1, 3 + 2 = 6

 No.28009

>>28007
"Hmm, at least there's someone else on this station who understands the importance of doing work." Alba says, returning to her ComLink.

"So, you came in a space ship? What's it like? Is it big, or small for you? How far can it go?" Cana asks, after occasionally bringing a few tools for Ijapa.

 No.28010

>>28009
"It's really big, for me. It'd probably take me most of a day to go from one end to the other, on foot. It's about the right size for people like you and Ijapa, though. As for how far it can go, well…"
I'll consider a second.
"Well, about as far as we can convince it to go. And getting it these new parts should help make it go farther."

 No.28011

>>28008
As you start moving and trying to sense the Fold Energy, you get attacked from all sides.

Blaster Fire seems to come from nowhere, making it hard to move! '2d4' '1d6'

The Fold Crystals here keep reacting and glowing, but they're starting to calm down. The whistling is lowering, but you'll have to deal with the bullets!

Roll #1 2, 4 = 6 / Roll #2 3 = 3

 No.28012

>>28011
Voldra 28/20

The glow from the Fold Crystals softens.

 No.28013

>>28010
"It must be so cool to be able to go wherever you want. Mom says we have to stay on Sela. She won't let me go to another planet or even get a ride in a ship." Cana adds.

"It's still pretty big, even for people my size." Ijapa adds. "The Humans hired a few aliens, so there's still plenty of space in there. Maybe when you grow up you can join us." He turns to Alba. "I mean, she can learn in the schools here, right? Gotta be some classes that would help prepare her."

Alba stays stoic.

 No.28014

>>28011
Ah. They are not fleeing yet, they are fighting. Very well, a volley of missiles should flush them out…
But would likely damage the crystals too. Hmn.
The fish could glide, if memory serves. Strafing the ceiling with explosives might force her out, and should have minimal chance of setting off the crystals. Is this a good battle strategy?

Without feedback, it's the strategy we have, so it's the strategy we use. Missiles away!
'10d6' Missiles sprayed across the ceiling
>Deals half damage to anything in Melee range of target, 5 attacks per turn, -1 at Far range, hits 1 turn after being fired.
And with them distracted, perhaps we can move to block the entrance now? '2d6+1'

Roll #1 3, 2, 1, 6, 1, 1, 4, 4, 3, 1 = 26 / Roll #2 2, 4 + 1 = 7

 No.28015

>>28013
"Well, we can't go wherever we want. There are pirates, and weird spacial anomalies and stuff. And your mom's right, for now. Stowing away on ships is usually a recipe for trouble."
I'll look at Ijapa and Alba.
"What about apprenticeships? Learn a trade, get a job,, go to space?"

 No.28016

>>28014
You hear something fall to the floor that isn't debris, but a stray missile sets off some crystals! There's dust everywhere, blocking sight and the shards are blocking your Fold senses!

'3d6'

Roll #1 1, 2, 6 = 9

 No.28017

>>28016
But they're not blocked enough that you can't sense a melee attack from behind. You moved just in the knick of time to hear something smash into a table near you!

 No.28018

>>28015
"Sela, is still in development." Alba responds, looking away. "Children and teachers were supposed to be part of a future wave of immigrants."

 No.28019

>>28018
Ah.
"I see. Still, you all seem to have done fairly well with what you've got, even with a few… rough spots. And with good kids like Cana around, the future's only looking up, right?"

 No.28020

>>28017
>>28016
"Apologies for the collateral!"
Melee? We can fight in melee! Turn around and snap a picture as we swing a Pincer into the area we heard the attack come from!
'2d6' Pincers
>ignores armor, negates Unarmed damage penalty, Cuts on Crit

Roll #1 6, 5 = 11

 No.28021

>>28019
She just looks down on you, in many ways.

"We're behind schedule, but our 'partners' insist on sending more ships in. Despite your circumstances, though, you've behaved in a far better manner that many of our future inhabitants. I'll leave it at that."

 No.28022

>>28021
I'll pull a frown behind my helmet.
Wow, they've set the bar that low, huh.
Clear my throat a little.
"Well, yes, leaving it at that would probably be best. I think we're about ready to start transport of these, aren't we Ijapa? Everything check out alright?"

 No.28023

>>28020
"AHHH!" Blood pours onto your pincers as it pierces plastic and flesh. The Reptilians flashes into appearance and disappears just as he arrives.

Something rolls up to your feet. It's a flash bomb! Roll Will to not get Stunned!

 No.28024

>>28023
Shields up and eyes covered! '2d6+2' Will

Roll #1 4, 1 + 2 = 7

 No.28025

"Seems fine on my end. I'll signal them and have the crew pull this stuff out. Once they're done, we're in the clear." Ijapa clicks on a few things on his ComLink.

"Ahh, are you going to leave so soon?" Cana asks, with very large, sad eyes.

>>28024
It takes some concentration, but you manage to hold on to your senses, even with it so close. You can feel the meat tense up in your pincers.

 No.28026

>>28025
Give them a minute, and they'll recover. For now, keep the pressure on the Reptilian by firing more Fold Energy after him! Or where we predict he will be, based on his last location…
'4d6+2' '4d6+2' Bolt

Roll #1 4, 3, 5, 3 + 2 = 17 / Roll #2 5, 2, 3, 2 + 2 = 14

 No.28027

>>28025
"Sounds good, Ijapa."
And, to Cana:
"Well, there are still a few more depots to look into, and we do still have to see if your mom turns up, don't we? like I said to the guy at the door, I don't like leaving things half-done."

 No.28028

>>28026
His current location isn't hard to tell. You can hear his pained shouts as he's blasted into a wall. He reappears in the visible spectrum, unconscious on the ground.

A door has opened beside you, and a second one is beginning to open!

 No.28029

>>28028
The flunky is down, but it's the fish with the items we want. We can't allow her to get away.
Take a swing at the entrance to this door to see if she's trying to sneak out this way. If not, we'll have to chase her down out the other.
'2d6' Pincers

Roll #1 3, 1 = 4

 No.28030

>>28027
The doors to the warehouse open a bit as the outside guards come in, pointing towards a work-shuttle that's stopped at your floor.

"We've got some droids, we can haul this stuff up ourselves." One adds.

"I'm sure my mom is going to be happy to meet you, like I was! I'm sure she'll let me get on a space ship if you talk to her. You've got a cool robot and a great job!"

>>28029
Nothing but air. You can see a third door light up as the second one finishes coming up, but watch out for those shots!

'1d6'

Roll #1 4 = 4

 No.28031

>>28030
Your shield absorbs the hit, this one stronger than earlier, but nothing you can't handle.

Voldra 26/20

 No.28032

>>28030
>>28031
That was a mistake on her part. We might not be able to see where the shots are coming from, but we can feel where they're hitting. And that gives us a direction to aim, and an idea of which door she's trying to take.
'4d6+2' '4d6+2' Bolt

Roll #1 5, 1, 5, 3 + 2 = 16 / Roll #2 6, 4, 3, 2 + 2 = 17

 No.28033

>>28030
"You guys sure? There's a fair bit of it."
To Cana:
"Well, we'll see. We've got to find her, first. Can you contact her on your comm unit?"

 No.28110

>>27993
Count how many there are. Look where they're going. I don't know for diplomacy, or figuring odds, or whether all this fancy equipment might react badly.

"Maybe find cover behind someone else. This might get messy. Uh, sad boop."

 No.28111

>>28110
There are 5 enemies. These looters are slightly armed and armored, as in they don't have name brand gear, but you can see they went through some effort to protect themselves and built some scary guns on them.

"Line up, follow orders, and we'll see what happens, but you are more valuable to us alive. Line up by the door, hands behind your heads. You too machine." One of the crooks aims his weapon at you as others go through the Fold Crystals. "I heard the stories, I'm keeping my eyes on you." The rodent-like crook adds.

 No.28112

>>28111
>>28110
There are some desks that could be used for cover, but this place wasn't designed with a firefight in mind.

 No.28113

>>28111
Go with the others, try to get into the middle of the line, so that I'm at the center of the wall (by the door if that's where it is, but the door isn't important). An idea is forming.

>>28112
How are the enemies organized spatially?

 No.28114

>>28113
You can hear the Lift's engine being warmed up, sounds like they plan on moving the group.

The Rodent crook is about 4 strides from you, he's got a smaller gun but he's twitchy. One more crook with helmet is watching the back of the line, which is Bostaur and three workers. The other three can be heard pilfering the rooms.

"Almost got it!" You hear one yell, your ships translator dealing with their language.

There are 5 more people ahead of you, which means 4 behind you. 2 more were taken by the crooks.

"Put the code in or I see what your insides look like!" You hear yelling from the back rooms.

 No.28115

>>28114
I don't know how to talk out of this. I can't punch the guy or disarm him. I can't outsmart them or out think them. Well, when all you have is a hammer…

"Instant death bomb."

Target the space directly behind each of the two guards in this room, so that they get hit but no one in the line. Spirit bomb '2d10' (+3) (crit 9+)

Roll #1 5, 1 = 6

 No.28116

>>28115
I'll take the 5, making that roll 7 (noncritical)

 No.28117

>>28115
>>28116
Seeing as how your mech is the catalyst for you, there's no weapons to draw out or tip off the two crooks, who both get sent flying off their feet! They quickly dart between walls and desks.

They're both stunned by the blast, the workers taking the opportunity to run for cover as Bostaur overturns some rubble to use as make shift cover.

"Don't stay out in the open! I need to bring you back!"

 No.28118

>>28117
(Instant) Take cover '1d10-1'

Use the remaining time to throw a frag grenade on one of the stunned targets '1d10+3' (9+ crits)

Roll #1 9 - 1 = 8 / Roll #2 9 + 3 = 12

 No.28119

>>28118
You hear screams as their armor shatters under the onslaught, the rodent taking the brunt of it, being flung against a wall and his body glows as the shield shorts out. one of them taking off his helmet to reveal a feline appearance before trying to run, limping away.

'2d20' Cover
'1d7' '2d4' Attack

Roll #1 18, 12 = 30 / Roll #2 2 = 2 / Roll #3 1, 2 = 3

 No.28120

>>28118
>>28119
The rodent manages to put some distance between you and the others, hiding behind 2 desks. CLOSE Range, -2 to Hit

The feline's pistol jams up, making an audible hiss noise as the battery cooks itself. He runs, unable to fire back. CLOSE Range, -1 to Hit

 No.28121

>>28120
>>28119
"Seriously? Still fighting? Your shields off! I can't exactly do this nonlethally with grenades, you pretty much need to run, surrender, or die."

Fry the rodent's battery-based-weaponry with a tesla grenade. '1d10+3' (9+ crits) (-2 COVER)

Roll #1 5 + 3 = 8

 No.28122

>>28121
"Ahh!" The Rodent tries to flee, but Bostaur keeps pressure on him.

Cover '1d10'
Bostaur shooting '2d6'

Roll #1 2 = 2 / Roll #2 4, 3 = 7

 No.28123

>>28122
>>28121
Bostaur pegs the rodent in the leg, making him an easy target for a second shot. He fails to get any distance, letting your Tesla Grenade short out his equipment and his back as he falls to the floor, the Feline trying to attack with his own grenade!

'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

 No.28124

>>28123
It lands close, but still in front of your defenses.

 No.28388

>>28124
>>28121
>Wan
The grenade land in front of your improvised defenses, taken the blow for you. However, the shard start tearing into delicate equipment, causing it to smoke up and catch fire! Despite the smoke, Bostaur continues to shoot, only occasionally stopping to reload and let his weapon cool down.

"Did the security guys get here that fast!?"

Ranges:

Distant / Far / Medium / Close / Melee

Enemies |_|_|_|X|_|
You |_|_|_|_|0|


>>28033
>Frank
"I can try." Cana says, clicking away on her ComLink. "Oh, she's home, but I don't know if she's ready to meet anyone." Even for an Alien, you can tell when someone is saddened.

"I don't think you alone could lift all that stuff up. We've got a cargo hauler that can handle it. Plus, I'm sure the Administration is going to want to open up this area real fast."

>>28032
>Voldra
"No!"
You hear a voice scream from nowhere as a gun goes sliding through the floor. The Lady starts reappearing, her see-through form showing plenty of internal damage. She's crawling towards her weapon, but she's not going to get it anytime soon at her speed.

>>27947
>Rachel
Your ComLink vibrates, alerting you to a message from Bok.

>"Boss wants us in for something."

>"And we'll work on those issues of your after. >;)"

 No.28389

>>28388
"Sounds like you're stuck with us for a little while longer, kid. Pretty sure by the time we're done checking things out, your mom might be starting to get a little worried, though."

to the guys:
"Well, good luck with that. And thanks for your work."
Now it's about time I started making my way back into my robot suit.

 No.28390

>>28389
Cana fumbles with her ComLink before offering to help you up.

"That's fine. Mom is actually asleep right now, so I can go anywhere I want." Her eyes light up for a moment. "Oh, can I see your ship? Is it small like you?"

 No.28391

>>28390
I'll raise an eyebrow behind my helmet. Unless her mom falls asleep at light speed, there's no way she got the call and said she was home and then immediately fell asleep. This kid might be trying to ruse me.
"Is that so?"
I'll take the help I can get.
"And the ship's not small at all, really. It's made for people your size."

 No.28392

>>28391
"Really? Then aren't the cabinets and stuff out of reach? Or do you stay in the robot then too!?" She follows up with.

"We just needed your sign-off." Abzu says, walking towards you with some large papers and clipboard. "Just sign here and we'll be done."

 No.28393

>>28392
"Usually we just ask for help from the crewmates, or make a separate set of cabinets and storage units at our height. More often than not, though, the mechanic crew is in-suit."
Once I'm back in the mech, I'll switch to a camera feed so I can actually see the clipboard.
"Thank you."
Give the papers a cursory once-over. Everything in order?

 No.28394

>>28388
Roll my eyes and type in a simple "Right"
Let him know I'm still upset and don't even want to adress the 'issues'

Now let's go see what the boss wants now

 No.28395

>>28393
It's actually pretty simple. Mostly a checklist to make sure everything was looked over and inspected.

"So there are lots of others like me up there too!?" Cana seems pretty eager, though she does take out her ComLink quickly to look at it.

 No.28396

>>28394
>"I'm not going to stop trying either."
He responds back.

You can flag down one of the cargo carts that passes by or ask an Alien for a lift, you're still a good distance from where they want you.

 No.28397

>>28395
I'll sign off, then.
"Yes, though they're all grown-ups. Well, maybe with the exception of my intern, but I think she's more of a child-at-heart type."
I'll note that she got some kind of message, but I won't pry. Yet.

 No.28398

>>28397
"What's it like to live in the ship? At your size, it must be great since you'd have your own room all to yourself, right? I'd have a room full of posters if I could."

Abzu takes the papers and heads towards the doors. "We'll make the arrangements to get everything loaded for you. In the meantime, enjoy your visit to Sela." She puts on a very fake smile.

 No.28399

>>28396
Close the Com-Link

Cargo cart, cargo cart all day
Or maybe I could stop a random cart and ask for a ride there

 No.28400

>>28398
I'll give Abzu a parting "thanks."
To Cana:
"Well, it's a lot like living anywhere, really. Though, the ship is a little understaffed so they haven't had anyone double-up to a room just yet. Normally it'd be at least two crewmen to a bunkroom, at least for the majority of the crew. Command crew get their own quarters."

 No.28401

>>28399
There's a bunch of them constantly driving people and things along. It's actually integrated into your ComLink where they are going to be and when.

The doors to Security are pretty well guarded, your ComLink pings a few times as they send your identity to the computer system.

"You're late." Your Human Boss says, rushing behind you. "We're getting a request to check something out for the folks on Sela. Think you have the time to do a patrol sweep?" He asks as he rushes to the coffee machine.

 No.28402

>>28400
"It's got to be better than living here. Everyone is so close, and you can hear them talking at night." She looks down as you head out with Ijapa. "At least we don't have to worry about the bad rain from back home."

 No.28403

>>28401
"Sorry boss, I got rushed here as soon as Bok sent me the message"
Stand upright and speak clearly
"I'm always ready, but… Sela?"

 No.28404

>>28388
"Please do not injure yourself further. You have already suffered multiple internal injuries."
Go over and claim the bag from the injured fish-lady.

 No.28405

>>28402
"I can imagine the walls might be pretty thin… So, where was 'home' before you ended up here, Cana?"
Ijapa probably has the locations of the next depots we'll check out, I'm sure. While we're passing markets, I'll keep an eye and camera out to see if I can spot any materials I could use for my little gun project.

 No.28406

>>28403
"Planet we're floating over. Next thing you're going to tell me is you forgot my name too." He takes a huge gulp of his coffee."

"I'll give you a flight path when you get down the Hangar. They said they detected some weird reading and want us to check them out. As a courtesy, the higher ups agreed and you're the only one left on stand-by. Should be something simple, but keep your wits about you, we've already run into raiders."

>>28404
Reiz heads over to claim her fallen weapon while Pazu stays close to you. There's a lot of high-quality Fold Crystals in here that would make amazing Catalysts, along with the Wasp Axe and the Voldra Shell item. On closer inspection, it seems to be a staff with holes in it.

"Is that all of them?" Pazu asks.

 No.28407

>>28406
"We do not know how many crystals exactly they took, but we believe this is the majority of them."
Pull out the axe and staff for better inspection. They are, after all, the reason for this entire altercation.

 No.28408

>>28406
"Would you forgive me if I said that I did?" sigh
"Sorry Sir, I've had a lot in my mind lately"

"Wait, the only one? Where are the others? And yes I will stay alert as always, as for raiders, I will dispatch them with no trouble"

 No.28409

>>28405
"There's a," Ijapa gets distracted as some Aliens selling their services approach your group; "two more to visit on this floor." He quickly raises his datapad, covering his eyes. This floor might not have the type of things you'll want to bring aboard.

"We had a big house, but it was lonely where I lived. The weather was terrible, though. When it rained, it burned you. It'd get so bad that they didn't let me go outside, no matter how much I wanted to. It's safer here, but it's so small."

 No.28410

>>28407
The Wasp Axe has an ominous vibe to it. However, the Voldra Staff seems to be more agreeable, in it's own way. Roll Will twice.

"It looks, like a really big flute." Pazu states. "Can you play it?"

>>28408
"It's Moretti. Don't worry about it, it seems everyone forgets it. I should stamp it on my forehead." He sighs, but then fills up his cup again. "We aren't picking anything up, so they don't want to risk too much on what's probably a simple glitch in their system, since we didn't pick up anything. Or do you think you can't handle it?" He leans in.

 No.28411

>>28409
Fair point.
"Lead the way, Ijapa."

"Sounds pretty rough, Cana."

 No.28412

>>28410
"It's a foreign name Sir, hard to remember"
I maintain a respectful stoic posture "Sir there has not been a problem I couldn't get done by myself before, you can rest assured that this will go smoothly"

 No.28413

>>28410
It is a weapon, of course it has an ominous vibration.
'2d6+2' '2d6+2'
"A flute? An interesting idea, though we are not sure our facial structure is conductive for playing. To start with, flutes generally require lips in order to be played."

Roll #1 1, 3 + 2 = 6 / Roll #2 2, 5 + 2 = 9

 No.28414

>>28411
"It was nice when the sun came out. I saw a lot of people flying then, but mom says I can't do it here…" She goes quiet.

"Uhm, okay, yeah, let's go quickly. Real fast." He says, pointing and speeding up his pace to get inside again, bringing the Diagnostic Cart along with him. "Alright, just like last time, though I won't mind if you take your time…" Roll Tech.

>>28412
"Good. Head to the Hangar and we'll send you the coordinates. Keep sharp, but make sure to stay safe, just in case. Dismissed."

 No.28415

>>28413
The Wasp Axe seems to become more malicious as you hold it, as if it would cut you and the others out of its own will. Pazu pulls back as you hold it. In contrast, the Staff sized Flute has a kind feeling to it.

"Uhm, mind if I try it out then?" Pazu asks as Reiz handcuffs the See-Through lady. "We should report this too. They might not be the only ones after this stuff."

 No.28416

>>28414
'2d6+2'
"I always take just as much time as I need. Usually."

"Well, Cana, give it time. Either one day it'll quiet down long enough you can spread your wings, or you'll get old enough to sign on to a ship and leave."

Roll #1 2, 4 + 2 = 8

 No.28417

>>28415
"We have no objections to you trying out the flute." Pass it gently over to Pazu. "Though we doubt the corporation will want these two items reported, as their existence is a breach of treaty."
The Axe may be malicious, but perhaps it can be soothed in time. If nothing else, we must be able to deal with such intense anger if we are to deal with the Wasps in the future.

 No.28418

"Sir" nod a little and off to the hangar!

 No.28419

>>28416
The notes left behind for this piece of equipment is from someone else. You can tell they followed procedures, since everything is written neatly. However, it only makes vague references to where things are or connect, something that only a person who had disassembled them would find out quickly.

"They said the gravity is too heavy here to do it, best I could do is float down from a high shelf." She says downcast. "Oh, if I was on your planet, could I fly?!"

 No.28420

>>28417
"I wouldn't mind if that axe went away, but I like this flute." She attempts to set up for it, but you can see the opening is just a bit bigger than she'd like, and she can't reach all the holes. "Here goes."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LsgUvsl_vpU

"Come on, I got both of them ready to take to the brig." Reiz interrupts. "I'm not going to say anything if you take those two with you. I'll consider them a thanks for saving us."

 No.28421

>>28418
It's actually pretty empty of personnel here in the Hangar as you arrive. A lot of the technical staff is planet side, helping with their new supplies.

As you head towards the area with your machine, you see a large, Clownfish like alien wheeling it out. A pair of Humans seem to be working on a Diagnostic pad near it.

 No.28422

>>28419
But does it work, is the important thing. If it works, I can deal with a quick disassemble/reassemble. Plus, it'd help the others become familiar with the tools.
"That's a good question, Cana. I didn't see anyone fly, personally, though that might just have been that none of the aliens who came to work there had the right wing structure. Then again, our planet does have comparatively high gravity to some of the other homeworlds."

 No.28423

>>28420
"You play very well, Pazu. Hopefully you will be able to play more later."
Nod in thanks to Reiz.
"Of course, we will get out of your way so you can do your job. Apologies for the damage to the ceiling; we felt that firing explosives blindly into the crystals would be unwise. And thank you for allowing our retrieval of these items without fuss; we were worried there would be more bureaucratic hoops to thread."

 No.28424

>>28421
Casually Approach the humans
"So, how is it looking, gentlemen?"

 No.28425

>>28422
"Uhm, what do you think of this?" Ijapa brings over a large piece of cardboard with some bolts pressed into it. They're labeled with a simple marker.

"Oh, okay I guess." Her attention is diverted when the diagnostic machine starts beeping. "What's that?" She asks, her interest and mood lifted.

 No.28426

>>28423
"There's still plenty of those to go through, but I'm sure most of them won't make too much of a fuss if they have to explain why they had it in the first place. I'll get you back through the right doors."

"Thanks, it's bigger than what my sister played. Don't tell her, but I used her's a few times when she wasn't looking." She smiles. "But, it felt real nice and warm when I was using it. I have a question for you actually, it came to me when I was playing. Do Voldra shed their shells, or can it grow back?" She looks up at you with curiosity, holding the huge flute.

 No.28427

>>28425
"…is that made out of cardboard?"
to Cana:
"This is a diagnostic device. Mechanics use these to 'talk' to machines and figure out just what's wrong with them. They can, in good condition, pick up anything from a broken wire to the more obvious missing plating or vital components. Without these things, it's probably safe to say we wouldn't be able to keep our ship space-worthy."

 No.28428

>>28424
"Everything shows green." The male technician says. "Shouldn't give you any trouble."

"Oh, but one thing." A female technician says as she rolls out a large pod. "We're going to be putting in a Fuel Pod, so don't worry about taking your time." With the help of the Alien and a loading device, they get it attached to the underside of your machine.

"There we go." The Alien fish wipes off the moisture from her forehead. "All set. Good luck out there."

 No.28429

>>28426
We had a feeling that would be the case. Follow Reiz through the doors.
"That is a good question, Pazu. The answer is actually a bit of both. We tend to grow back smaller pieces of our shell that get knocked off, but severe enough damage or simply growing to a certain age can necessitate shedding of the old shell. Why do you ask?"

 No.28430

>>28428
"A fuel pod, I see, thank you, any helpful modifications that help me keep the crew safe as appreciated" briefly nod at the fish
"Go get yourselves a refresher now, I have to do some patrolling, excuse me"

 No.28431

>>28427
"No, I mean the people were here last left a few of these in the drawers. Some of the holes are empty and I think they were using them to not forget where they go. We should check to make sure they didn't lose some."

"Woah, that's so cool. I'm sure they'd want to get one here. There's so many power outages, maybe they'll know what to fix then." Cana shouts out as your guide looks away in a bit of embarrassment.

 No.28432

>>28428
"A fuel pod, I see, thank you, any helpful modifications that help me keep the crew safe as appreciated" briefly nod at the fish
"Go get yourselves a refresher now, I have to do some patrolling, excuse me"

 No.28433

>>28429
"It's weird, but it feels like this was given away and not taken." She manages to balance the flute as you walk. "But it's also thick, more than it should be, like you could hit someone with it."

As you head out, a few of the guards on the lift rush over to take the two criminals.

 No.28434

>>28431
"Fair point."
Check around, see if we've got all the components.
"And Cana, the machines can't do everything on their own. From how Abzu told it, Sela is suffering a pretty heavy shortage of trained people. So even with the diagnostic devices, if there's no one to use them, they're just gathering dust. On the other hand, this does mean there's room for young kids like yourself to learn how to make them work and fix things up, too. Like how I made that power cord for your comlink earlier, a little knowledge can go a long way."

 No.28435

>>28432
"Thanks. I didn't think it was going to be so heavy." She says, sitting down.

"You need to work out more if that tired you out." The male technician adds.

"No way, I already work hard enough here." The Alien responds.

"I think they're getting along, don't you think so?" The female Technician asks you.

 No.28436

>>28433
Wave and take a few pictures as the criminals are taken away.
"Interesting, if true. We do not recall giving such a thing away, though perhaps the giving was too far removed for us to connect it to this place. We must admit, we are more interested in the axe, if only out of a desire to understand the source of such rage."

 No.28437

>>28435
"Yes sure, now excuse me"
Hurry up and get inside, avoiding that shameful scene the best I can

 No.28438

>>28434
"Yeah, if I can learn to fix ComLinks and stuff, I can make money too! Can you show me?!" She yells with excitement at you. "Maybe I can fix it so that the power doesn't go out as much."

"I'll run through the system again while you look it over. If it's missing bolts now, it might get worse later." Ijapa says, going through some of the other diagnostic options. Roll Tech.

 No.28439

>>28438
"Maybe, though I might not be around long enough to give you a proper crash course on basic mechanics. There's actually a lot of study that goes into it before you start poking around the guts of a device."
And I'll make sure everything's where it's supposed to be. '2d6+2'

Roll #1 3, 6 + 2 = 11

 No.28440

>>28436
"It just doesn't feel the same as that thing." She gives a wary glance to the axe. "Maybe the Voldra didn't know or something? It just feels inviting."

"Oh, wait. Do you have to go back or do you want to look around? We were instructed to help you…" She stops and looks at the flute. "Why am I calm?"

>>28437
You have to go through the warm up procedures first. Roll Tech to start up your machine as you watch the female technician go up towards the other one.

>>28439
"I'll learn it! Maybe I can make myself wings that'll let me fly here!" The child's eyes are full of determination as she closely observes everything you do.

Only a few of the bolts are missing, you'll have to request for some new ones to be sent it. Also, a fair number of them have been stripped, making them harder to remove. You might want to replace them just in case.

[PAUSE]

 No.28441

>>28440
Ain't that always the way. But it's better than I was expecting.
"Sounds like a good goal to have."

 No.28473

>>28441
"While probably not the best thing to bring up, looks like Security has dealt with the situation we ran into earlier. The cause is still under investigation, but it should make getting to the last warehouse easier on all of us." Your guide informs you as she digs through her DataPad.

 No.28474

>>28473
"Good to hear."
I'll be following her lead to the next depot. Make a few notes in my own datapad about the bolt replacements. We're going to have to have them inspected as well, even if it'll take a while. With how second-hand everything here is, I don't want to make any assumptions about the quality of the merchandise.

 No.28475

>>28474
"Think that mecha of yours can help me out with these bolts? I can't keep the impact wrench stable on these." Ijapa says, losing his positioning on the wrench and nearly falling forward. "Ugh, how'd they even get so worn down like this?"

 No.28476

>>28475
"Old Earth stories say gremlins sneak into machines at night, strip the bolts and loosen gears. I haven't seen one, but with how fast our ship keeps falling apart I'm starting to think we've got at least one stowed away."
I can just get the bolt between my "fingers" and twist, right? Is that a tech roll or agility?

 No.28477

>>28440
Oh right, silly me I always forget to do this shit
'1d10-1' tech

Roll #1 9 - 1 = 8

 No.28478

>>28440
"That is indeed strange. You were quite energetic and nervous when we first met."
Reach over and tilt her head so we can examine her face for any signs of distress.
"Perhaps being held hostage overloaded your panic processes, so they are no longer working properly?"

 No.28479

>>28476
Roll Both

"Well, I'll put out some traps for next time then. I can kind of see now why they kept the books secret back home, but still doesn't make me any happier."

>>28477
>Flight Assist: Off
>Sensors: Green
Good work, everything is coming up properly. The Male technician picks up a signal cone and heads in front of your mech, signalling that you're ready for take-off.

Roll Agility.

 No.28480

>>28479
Give him the thumbs up and let's fly outta here!
'1d10+2' agility (variable shifting)

Roll #1 6 + 2 = 8

 No.28481

>>28478
"Normally, just dealing with others can be hard for me, especially since some of them can just pick me up like they did." Roll Will as she looks straight at you. "This is something like out of my nightmares, but I haven't felt bad about it…"

 No.28482

>>28479
'2d6+2' tech
'2d6' agility

Roll #1 3, 4 + 2 = 9 / Roll #2 6, 6 = 12

 No.28483

>>28481
Something is different about her…
'2d6+2' Will
"Perhaps the Flute-staff is responsible? You did remark that it made you feel calm and at ease."

Roll #1 3, 1 + 2 = 6

 No.28484

>>28480
Nice work, it's a smooth flight out of the Ankylosaur and into the black void of space.

"Rachel, we've got you on radar." Bok responds over the radio. "How's everything on your end?"

>>28482
"You make it look so easy…" Ijapa says, slightly disappointed. "You made it look so easy. How long have you been working with that machine?"

>>28483
Her eyes seem to be different sizes, or at least the iris of them. She's breathing hard, but she's smiling.

"Has this happened before? You must have seen something like this if you visit a bunch of planets."

 No.28485

>>28484
"This one specifically? Since a bit after we launched from earth. The one I normally use is still so far down the repair queue that it's probably going to sit there and rust until the heat death of the universe before I can ever actually get back to fixing it. This one was one of the mass-produced spare skeletons the ship had in its closet, and I've been patching it up with bits and pieces of those pirates we keep running into. I'm just thankful we could take down their suits easily enough to have usable parts for the wrists and joints. Those things are several kinds of pain in the… uh, rear end, to replace."
I don't know how much swearing Cana knows, but I don't plan to add to it. And I know she's listening in.
"I really do have to hand it to Civet, Contentin, and Saanen, though. They're pretty good at putting things together when I'm not looking."

 No.28486

>>28484
"Similar, though nothing specifically like this. There are many defective sentients who simply do not process emotions or fear at all, and several others who are simply good at hiding it, either through discipline, tools, or Fold. We do not recall any specific incidents of it being done accidentally."
Embrace her gently just to make sure she doesn't run off, then gently grab hold of the flutestaff.
"Would you mind letting go? We would like to test if this state is truly related to this staff."

 No.28487

>>28485
"I think that's it for this part." He moves over the diagnostic table closer. "If we had someone like them back home, I probably wouldn't be here. Even at your size, they'd probably never run out of work." Ijapa adds. "If it doesn't work out on that planet we're heading to, consider the offer open to you too."

>>28486
"Oh, yeah, sure." She let's go of it and quickly afterwards, her breathing starts picking up, but she doesn't freak out. She doesn't seem well at this point.

 No.28488

>>28487
"Well, I appreciate it, but I'm not looking forward to working myself to death just yet. I've got this stupid fantasy of retiring within my lifespan, you know."
Are we done separating the bad bolts, or is there more to do here?

 No.28489

>>28487
"Do you know where we can find the nearest Shaper- that is, the nearest doctor? You appear quite unwell, and we wish to have you treated as soon as possible."

 No.28490

>>28484
"Everything's green on my end. I'm ready and waiting for coordinates" keep the most neutral, professional voice I can muster. Hopefully Bok won't bring up that last conversation

 No.28491

>>28488
The bolts are done. The rest will be taken over by the staff here.

"Just offering." Ijapa looks over and clicks on his Datapad.

"There was one more place to go, right?" Cana asks. "We might run into more of mom's friends out there."

>>28489
"A doctor? There's a hospital floor we can get to if we switch lifts, why?" She seems to be losing her balance, but she doesn't seem to notice herself.

 No.28492

>>28491
"Yes, one more depot to visit. After that, unless your mother comes to fetch you herself, we're going to have to drop you off at your home. I don't think your mother would appreciate it if we held onto you for the whole day without asking."

 No.28493

>>28491
Pick her up in a bridal carry to keep her steady.
"Because you have been affected by this flute and appear to be in great distress. Please direct us to the correct lift."

 No.28494

>>28490
"Sending them to you now. There's a few they want you to check out. Take it nice and easy, I want you back here so we can finish our talk."

Roll Agility again.

"If anything happens, make sure to report it."

>>28492
Cana looks away. "She's asleep. I'd rather go with you anyway. Maybe I can make some wings with your help and leave this place."

 No.28495

>>28494
"Understood" speak with gritted teeth
Let's roll
'2d6+2'

Roll #1 3, 3 + 2 = 8

 No.28496

>>28493
"I feel fine. My hearts kind of racing, but that's it." Pazu says as her ears start listening in all directions. "Well, take the lift up three floors and then switch to a green one and go up another two. You'll spot the hospital level because it's painted red."

 No.28497

>>28494
"Even so, without your mom's permission and an official contract, that's technically kidnapping. Or at the least you running away from home. I'm not exactly clear on our ship's stowaway policy."

 No.28498

>>28495
It's a decent enough journey to the first point. Lots of floating rocks, but nothing out of the ordinary here. There are two mining robots that have stopped working and are floating around, though.

"I've got a good memory." You can hear Bok laugh in the radio. "But it'll wait. Anything suspicious?"

>>28497
"I know. I just don't want to go back." Cana says. "So teach me anything you can before you go back."

"Actually, about that." Abzu interrupts. "It may be an odd question, but was your ship prepared to educate any youngsters?"

 No.28499

>>28496
Get in the lift and set it to take us up three floors, stashing the weapons in our containers while we wait so we can focus and keeping Pazu comfortable.
"Your speech and your body language are inconsistent and contradictory. Either you are a liar, and a poor one at that, or you are being prevented from noticing how distressed you are. Even if the effect wears off, you were just in a very stressful situation, and should at least be examined for injuries."

 No.28500

>>28498
"Prepared? I'm not sure. I hadn't looked into it. However, that isn't to say we're incapable of making the space. We had to leave shorthanded so we're not exactly hurting for room."
I'll pause for a second.
"…why do you ask?"

 No.28501

>>28498
"Yeah… Are you seeing this? Two workers floating around like space garbage… Probably just discarded old models right?"

 No.28502

>>28499
"I'm not lying, I feel fine. Maybe I'm just not as scared as I thought I would be." She begins coughing as you exit the first lift.

Entering the Hospital Level, you see a large amount of wires running through the floor and a lot of people running, jogging, and flying around. There's a few staffers rushing between computers in the middle, but Aliens come and go to them to retrieve notes and papers. A few other Aliens are sitting down, bandaged up, with a few having IV drips attached to them.

One of them, a yellow furred Alien, looks up at you with harried eyes. "Can, can I help you?"

 No.28503

>>28502
"Yes, or to be more accurate, you can help her. This is Pazu; she has just been in a hostage situation and shootout, and exposed to unknown Fold influence. She continues to insist that she is fine, but we have noted several symptoms of distress, notably a loss of balance, rapid changing of the size of the center of her eyes, and several nervous ticks, such as constantly flicking ears. We are worried that she may be in shock, or some other ailment."

 No.28504

>>28500
"Like I had mentioned, construction and settlement have not gone according to plan." She tilts her head for emphasis. "If you have any resources you can spare that we can use for it, we would make it worth your while."

>>28501
"Yeah, camera is coming in clear. We'll pass it on to them. Do they look damaged at all?"

 No.28505

>>28503
"Today of all days. Did they ship all the trouble makers here?" He gets up. "Bring her with me, we can have one of our computers check her out." He points down a hall, busy with other Hospital staff carting numerous aliens around. "Lot's has been going on, I don't know what caused all the crazyness today, but bring her in, we can scan her right now since she doesn't seem to be bleeding or anything severe like that." He points to a small Doctors table in a very messy room.

"Are you her, uh, friend or something?"

 No.28506

>>28504
Let's get a closer look, but not TOO close. If horror movies taught me anything is to never get close to eerie quiet, completely still humanoid objects

 No.28507

>>28504
"Decisions like that are well outside my pay grade, unfortunately. That said, we do have a fair bit of salvaged materials that might end up on a trading table."
I know she can't see it, but I'll shrug.
"I'm afraid that's the most I can say at the moment."

 No.28508

>>28506
They still have their tools on them, which can be dangerous if they focus on your mech…

There are parts on them that seem to have been broken open, but they are mostly whole. Most of the limbs have suffered plenty of hits, but you are near an asteroid.

It might be worth it to get out of your mech to access their computers. You've got a space suit on and you could roll Tech for it.

 No.28509

>>28508
"Bok, do you hear me? I could get closer out of my mech and access their CPU or whatever, but I don't know jack about operating computers, so I should need your help on this"

 No.28510

>>28507
"It's a better lead than I have available anywhere else. If you can mention it to them, the Agari Corporation will be able to compensate them. Even your History vids will give us something to use." Abzu clicks on her DataPad and walks out the door with all of you.

"How long did it take you to learn to do all the things you do?" Cana asks as you walk outside, ignoring all the scantily clad aliens and vendors nearby. Again, some of them close in on Ijapa and the Diagnostic Table he's bringing.

 No.28511

>>28505
"The troublemakers we encountered were already present on the planet. We suspect they saw the ship's arrival as an opportunity to act while things were too chaotic for an effective response to be organized."
Follow him to the room and put her down on the table.
"Yes, we consider her our friend. Though we may be able to get in touch with her sister if you wish."

 No.28512

>>28509
"Yeah, I copy. You should be able to use your ComLink to establish a connection with it. There should be an access panel on it's back, usually painted a color you'd call Green. Can you see it and do you think you can get it safely?"

Roll Street Smarts.

>>28511
"They brought in a lot of people today, that might be why. Ugh, and I don't have a day off for a while." He puts a hand on his head and rubs his ears. "Sorry, sounds like I'm not taking this seriously, am I?" He instructs Pazu to lay down as he fishes through some wires, pulling them out of the corners and cabinets. "She might be in shock, but it's way better for everyone that she wasn't much more hurt." He powers on a machine and points a cable at Pazu.

"So, what brought you to Sela in the first place?" He asks.

 No.28513

>>28510
I suppose I can fire off that to the ship's mercantile crew. Repair manuals and scrap are hot commodities now, apparently. And it doesn't cost us anything to make duplicates.
"Well, Cana, I was officially 'in training' for about six years, counting post-study internship. Before that it was just a hobby. And since things keep changing and updating, I'm still learning new ways of taking things apart and putting them back together. The important thing is having the drive to learn, and the materials to study. And maybe someone to give you pointers now and again so you don't end up burning off fingers or feathers with a soldering iron."
I'll chuckle a little.

 No.28514

>>28512
"It sounds as if you are overworked, and stressed over the effect it will have on your performance. If anything, it sounds like you care a great deal."

"This drone came to inspect a shipment of Fold crystals and ensure their quality. Hence why we were present when the thugs attempted their heist."
Pause, then twiddle our legs sheepishly.
"We apologize for the condition they will be in when they arrive. We did not intend to increase your workload."

 No.28515

>>28512
"I can try to…"
Is there a human size weapon on board I can bring along juuuuust to be sure?

 No.28516

>>28515
>>28512
'2d6'

Roll #1 3, 5 = 8

 No.28517

>>28513
Cana looks at her own feathers. A few are already bent and damaged, and then puts them behind her back. "If I get some of your vids, do you think I could be as good as you?"

The crowds of peddlers get thicker as you approach the last warehouse, a few of them putting their hands and arms and equivalents even on your mech. Ijapa is surrounded now, and even Abzu is trying to push them away.

>>28514
"Thanks. It's been a busy day." The cable he holds begins to change colors as he holds it up to Pazu. "Think you can bring her sister down here? You were right, but it's the weirdest case of shock I've seen."

>>28515
>>28516
There's always a Pistol on board, thought it might not do too well against them if they turned on you…

It's an easy enough space jump for you, just be careful you don't float out into space as you aim for its back. It is massive, you're are almost the size of the hatch, which Bok might have had some difficulty with if it was back on the Ankylosaur. "There should be a series of switches near it. Just push them all in and I can use your ComLink to connect to it."

Roll Tech.

{PAUSE}

 No.28518

>>28517
"Not right away, but someday, if you keep at it. Might even end up better, who knows? Some people get it easier than others."
Didn't we have guards? I really don't want to have to draw my gun just to clear a path.

 No.28519

>>28518
Even the guards are being swarmed. Aliens of numerous shapes gather around your group, offering their wares and their bodies to a group that stands out from their common clientele.

"This is official Sela business, so get out of the way!"
"Move it, we've got places to be and I've already got a girlfriend!" The guards yell.

 No.28520

>>28519
Shit, I don't want the kid getting trampled in this.
"Hey, Cana, would you mind climbing up top here? I don't want you getting separated from us or trampled."

 No.28521

>>28517
"Certainly. She should still be with our comrade somewhere nearby."
Call up Wan's transponder, as she was the last one with Pazu's twin.
"You are referring to the lack of emotional reaction, yes? We also found that strange."

 No.28522

>>28520
"Uh, yeah…" Cana nods, trying her best to grip onto your mech as even more merchants and hostess' approach, drawn by the crowd. Even Ijapa is trying to push them away despite being red in the face.

 No.28523

>>28521
Calling up Wan, you only hear static.

"Have you known her for long? Maybe that's how her species is?" He begins asking her questions.

"What's your name?"
"Pazu."
"How old are you?"
"I'm, I'm, I don't remember."
"Where do you work?"
"Uhm, somewhere near here…"

 No.28524

>>28522
Sigh.
Firing a warning shot into the ceiling would probably be a bad idea due to ricochet. But I suppose I can still threaten. Switching to external speakers.
"Assembled merchants! This unit is programmed to interpret continued violations of personal space as hostile action. Disperse or this unit will take defensive action!"
Hopefully they'll buy that.

 No.28525

>>28524
"Woah!"
"For realz!" Some of the 'vendors' shout as they take a step back from you.

"Really?" Cana asks.

 No.28526

>>28525
Some isn't all. We've still got to get out of here.
Draw and shoulder my pistol, aiming at the ceiling.
"You have 15 seconds to comply."
To Cana, I'll send a text message:
Not really, but they don't know that.

 No.28527

>>28526
"Oh, OH!" She chirps as she reads her message. "He, It's serious! It's gonna shoot if you don't move away in 10 seconds!"

The aliens near you try to move away, but the sheer mass of people has made it hard for them! Everyone is pushing and prodding, you can feel the temperature rising with so many giants around you.

 No.28528

>>28523
Well, that's not good.

"Doubtful. We believe it may be a side effect of exposure to this fold-item, as she became like this soon after being exposed to it." Show the doctor the staff, for all the good that might do.

Maybe call up the security chief? He did say to get in contact if there was an issue.

 No.28529

>>28528
"I'm checking her in. She's really out of it and I don't want her falling into the sea in this state." He presses a few buttons on his DataPad.

He begins to look over the flute, studying it. "I, remember this. Or something like it. Let me look it up…" He starts hitting away on his DataPad.

 No.28530

>>28527
Man, I really hope I didn't back myself into a corner with this one.
Do I have recorded noises of gunshots? Specifically from my gun? I might be able to fake it, especially if I aim over everyone's heads.
"You have nine seconds to comply."
Cana, cover ears.

 No.28531

>>28530
"You better hurry!" She shouts before disappearing towards your mech's back.

A few of the aliens manage to push themselves into the crowd, but the mass of people remain. Others are trying to get out, but more vendors appear…

 No.28532

>>28529
"Let us know if you find anything of interest about it. We are curious as to what function it was intended to perform to have a result like this."

Still nothing on the comms? Getting in touch with her twin is not proving as simple as first anticipated.

 No.28533

>>28531
Aim towards the approaching vendors (finger away from the trigger) and key up a gunshot soundbite. Because these things record everything, right? Especially testing data.
'2d6+2' tech to dig up something I can use
"Five seconds to comply."

Roll #1 2, 1 + 2 = 5

 No.28534

>>28532
"It was some weird research stuff I was seeing. I remember it because it was so weird." He says as a six limbed Alien nurse enters the room.

"We'll be taking her to our observation ward. You're free to come if you want, but we need to keep her in a controlled environment." She says.

"Hmm, are you familiar with a Doctor Zorani and her Fold Research?"

>>28533
Oh no, you've opened up some other menus! It's loading through them, but it's stalling you as the crowd both tries to run away and gets thicker…

 No.28535

>>28534
Aw, fuck it. Is there a sign above the door or something? Anything I can safely use as a target?

 No.28536

>>28535
Plenty of loose hanging decor and signs all around you. Roll for the shot.

 No.28537

>>28534
"Doctor Zorani? Not at the moment…"
>Hey guys, anybody got anything on a Doctor Zorani? Apparently was doing Fold Research, and might have something to do with the items recovered.
"Do you believe she is connected to this case?"

 No.28538

>>28536
'2d6' gun to shoot a sign.
"You now have 10 seconds to cease hostilities. Lay down on the ground or this unit will assume you wish to continue hostilities."

Roll #1 2, 2 = 4

 No.28539

>>28537
>"Name sounds so familiar."
>"Like I've heard it before."
>"I'll ask around."

"Maybe not this exactly. I remember her and her team were doing some weird things with Fold Materials. I can't seem to find too much more about them on my DataPad…"

While the Doctor is busy clicking, an alarm goes off.

"Not now. Think I can borrow you for a moment?"

>>28538
Shooting at a neon sign isn't the best idea, as it sparks, frightening people and causing them to really start shoving and pushing. It's a stampede! Roll Tech and Agility to keep your balance!

 No.28540

>>28539
Fucking
'2d6+2' tech
'2d6-1' because gerwalk mode.

Roll #1 5, 2 + 2 = 9 / Roll #2 1, 1 - 1 = 1

 No.28541

>>28539
>Maybe the origin of this staff is related. It would be nice if this was truly a project we supported.
"Is that not always the way of the stars? What you do not want is abundant, but what you need is buried and hidden."
Rise and follow him towards wherever the alarm is sounding from.
"Certainly. Is this issue one of Fold or of troublemakers? We are aptly prepared to deal with either."

 No.28542

>>28540
You're able to keep your Mech mostly balanced, but people still manage to push you around with the sheer mass of them shoving you.

You do your best to keep Cana out of harms way, but one group of people manages to get you to almost fall as you hit the Diagnostic Table to prevent a fall on Cana. You've added another dent to it, but everyone seems to be fine as the crowd disperses.

"You know this doesn't help the Computrons' reputation." Abzu says.

 No.28543

>>28541
"Some of our patients, are harder to deal with than others." He leads you pass a few halls, where a distinct smell and taste pass through the air.

"Help me, hold her down!" A Nurse shouts as another is lifted and pushed away from an impressively sized Alien, covered in fur and muscle, a few times heavier than the two Nurses trying to help her.

"Try not to get hurt or hurt her!" The Doctor says as he rushes over and starts trying to grapple with one of the alien's hefty arms.

 No.28544

>>28542
"And being an unruly mob doesn't help theirs."
Reholster the gun.
"At least this way, this batch won't swarm over someone for a couple days, at least."
Now, to check on Cana.
"Cana? Are you alright?"

 No.28545

>>28543
"Perhaps this is a chance to test our hypothesis?"
Try touching her with the staff. The effect is caused either by physical contact or by playing it, so a process of elimination is in order.

 No.28546

>>28544
She just looks up at you in astonishment.

"You made the crowd go away!" Her bright eyes suddenly come to a realization. "Did they steal your wallet?"

>>28545
"HUARGH!" The massive Alien shouts, tossing the Doctor off with barely any effort. It continues to struggle, snorting and salivating as it pushes against the retraints put on it. Any attempt at simply putting it on her is rebuffed as she tosses and kicks!

 No.28547

>>28546
"That would be a feat, since they'd have to reach into my cockpit for that, and I'm pretty sure I'd notice a giant hand."
The table, well, that'll buff out eventually. It's just a dent.
"Now, let's get a move on before they get their nerve back and realize I didn't actually aim at any of them."

 No.28548

>>28546
Try to weave through the flailing limbs to get close enough to hold it against her, hopefully with minimal damage.
'2d6+1' Agility

Roll #1 4, 1 + 1 = 6

 No.28549

>>28547
"Oh, I thought you had a mecha wallet too." She looks around as the last few stragglers run off. A few of the stalls are empty and those that aren't are giving you suspicious looks, though a few are laughing at the mess.

"I was getting real worried there. If you had ejected, then we'd be in real trouble. The last warehouse is nearby, let's get it done before they go for round 2."

 No.28550

>>28549
"Well, if I did, it would be in a sealed compartment."
Give her a thumbs up.
"Which I do."

And with that we are out of that mess and into a new one. To the next depot.

 No.28551

>>28548
"She's relapsing sir! The drugs are reacting with whatever she took earlier!" The Nurse yells out.

You get close and can press on her a bit, but she's making it very difficult to do so with those thick arms. Roll Melee to pin it down!

 No.28552

>>28551
Thankfully, having multiple limbs means holding her arms back does not stop us from pinning the staff to her.
'2d6' Melee

Roll #1 2, 4 = 6

 No.28553

>>28550
"Still wouldn't make it easy. Let's haul this thing out of sight then." Ijapa follows up as your group rushes off,eager to beat any new crowd.

Arriving at the depot, they quickly open and shut the door. Inside this facility is all the little engines and motherboards necessary to make the Landing gear function properly.

Unfortunately, it looks like they hosted a party, and after party, and a tornado in here…

>>28552
She still struggles as the Doctors and Nurses try to keep the rest of her on the bed.

"HERSAE!" She shouts, causing a few of the other patients to jump in shock and fall out of their beds. As you place the Flute on her, it doesn't seem to have any effect, she continues to struggle in everyone's grip.

"Someone just taze her or get the sedatives!"

[PAUSE]

 No.28554

>>28553
"Right, well, we've got a bit of work to do before we take inventory, so we might as well get started."
This will also be used to teach Cana the joy of taking inventory and proper storage methods. An important skill for any aspiring mechanic.

 No.28555

Test

 No.28669

>>28553
Maybe the staff needs Fold energy to be channeled through it in order to work? It's the closest we can come to playing it ourselves.
'2d6+2' Will

Roll #1 1, 2 + 2 = 5

 No.28670

>>28669
She struggles against all of you, but the arm you are holding flails, making it hard for you to focus at all. Even with her spastic motions, you can feel yourself being pushed and pulled with each of them.

"I can't find anymore! We've used up all the ones we had! I'm going to water down the Ketamine!"

 No.28671

>>28670
What an uncooperative patient.
As it sounds like there are few alternatives, we shall continue attempting to work the flutestaff. Since we cannot focus to give a more precise guidance, perhaps just producing Fold energy in the limb holding it will be enough? If not, maybe it will affect her the same way it affected Duana.
'2d6+2' Will

Roll #1 6, 2 + 2 = 10

 No.28672

>>28671
Holding the aliens limb and the flute, channeling your energy into, you can feel something. It's a strange feeling, but it seems to have an effect on the patient. Their movements visibly slow, but you have to hold on in case it stops working.

The Nurse rushes in and injects her with a hurried feeling, but the Alien doesn't seem to react to it as much, or at least not how someone having such a large needle put into them should. The motions slow, until the patient finally goes back to sleep.

"I'm going to want this one strapped down with two guard nearby." The Doctor says. "Thanks, she'd have probably thrown us all into the wall if you weren't here."

 No.28673

>>28672
Hold on long enough to be sure that she is asleep before letting go, returning the flutestaff to it's container for now, content to at least be on the right track with that mystery.

"We are happy to have provided assistance in that, at least. Will she be well?"

 No.28674

>>28673
"I don't know. This place is getting all manner of shipments, I don't even know what she could have ingested, injected, or who knows how else she could have gotten drugs into her body." He sighs. "Maybe it's just a reaction to something too. This place is just getting flooded with who knows what. Are you going to stay here long?"

 No.28675

>>28674
"Unfortunately not; our ship has need of this drone, and will be departing once it has loaded it's cargo. Is there something else you wished for assistance with?"

 No.28676

>>28675
A pair of medical staff rush in, only to stop and witness the other Nurse's starting to take their leave.

"I could use as many limbs as possible today, but I think we'll have to deal with what we have now." The Doctor responds.

"Excuse me, you came in with a small patient, right?" One of the medical staff that rushed in walks over to ask you.

 No.28677

>>28676
"We are sorry that we cannot be of assistance with that."
Nod to the medical staff approaching us.
"Indeed we did. Is she well?"

 No.28678

>>28677
"I did a double take, but I think her sister or something is here. Might help them if they're together, right?" He says. "I'll give you the room number, just say the word and I can have them meet if you'll be with her."

 No.28679

>>28554
"It looks like my neighborhood." Cana says as she nearly slips on a few screws. All around you are boxes stuffed with numerous left0over computer parts. Some have been damaged with moisture, a few split in pieces, and many of them all over the place.

Roll Agility and Tech.

 No.28680

>>28679
"You'll want to watch your step, there are loose bits floating around, it looks like. Be sure to pick them up as you find them, since they might still be good."
'2d6-1' agility
'2d6+2' tech

Roll #1 4, 2 - 1 = 5 / Roll #2 4, 4 + 2 = 10

 No.28681

>>28680
"Yeah. Can't even let the water pipes wash anything away here." Cana picks up a few bolts between her feathered fingers, staining them.

As you start walking around and inspecting them, you can see there was some method to their madness. They had sorted everything by size, but they weren't always careful about the weight. It feels like an obstacle course as you start digging into some of the boxes, though, but you manage to stay up with Ijapa picking up a building sized broom to pick up the pieces on the floor.

"While you're taking care of that, I've been trying to locate her mother. Things will get nebulous around here if we can not, otherwise." Abzu says.

 No.28682

>>28681
"That's appreciated, thank you."
To Cana:
"Hear anything back from her on your end, Cana?"
I'll be cataloging by type/model while conversing. Have to make sure they're compatible parts, after all.

 No.28683

>>28682
She looks at her ComLink, again giving a negative expression.

"Everyone is supposed to be carrying a locator ID. It allows you access to certain floors, even the vending machines require them. Her mother shows up on the system, but not her location."

"That's because they're jamming it." Cana adds.

Once the odd screws are picked up by Ijapa, and a little dusting is done, it's easier to see what everything is.

"Now I can add Janitor work to my resume." Ijapa says, observing the girls.

 No.28684

>>28683
"Jamming it? Is that something that happens often?"
Cleanliness is a vital skill of a mechanic.
"Don't think too poorly of janitors, Ijapa. Without them, we'd have to clean up all our own messes. And trust me, you haven't seen a mess until you get a dozen mechanics together trying to make a beat-up old tub of a ship spaceworthy again. The break area alone could have been classified as a health hazard."

 No.28685

>>28684
"It's something criminal organizations are fond of. If you visit any of our sponsor worlds, they'll track every place you go to." Abzu says.

"Even back on my world, they kept trying to push for tracking stuff. Do they do that stuff back on your world too?" Ijapa asks.

 No.28686

>>28685
I'll scratch my cheek for a bit, then look at my datapad.
"Most corporations do it to their employees, to keep an eye on assets, but beyond that… probably. I hadn't seen anything malicious in my gear, but it has been a while since I checked to see what's changed in the coding of my pad."
I'll shrug, though they can't really see that.
"Not that I'd make any assumptions, but I can understand that there are certain business models that don't exactly thrive under state or corporate scrutiny."

 No.28687

>>28686
>Incoming Emergency Message
>Respond? Yes / No

"And they're being shipped here, aren't they?" Ijapa states, looking at Abzu who doesn't show a hint of emotion. "Figures."

"We've done the best we can with what our sponsors have sent us." Abzu says plainly. "How are most of the supplies here so far?" She asks you as you see that a fair number simply need to be replaced with new parts.

 No.28688

>>28687
"Some do need a few newer parts to be perfectly fine, but hold onto that thought for a second."
Patch it in. The guys outside don't need to hear it, though.

 No.28689

>>28688
>"This is Ankylosaur Security. Are you safe?"
The person on the other side of the Com-link quickly says.

 No.28690

>>28689
"For the moment, yeah. What's the situation? Should I not be safe?"

 No.28691

>>28690
>"We lost comms with everyone on the platform for a while."
The voice responds, having calmed down.
>"We're dealing with a few situation, but keep you ComLink at the ready."

Ijapa looks at his device as well, being told much the same you were. Abzu is also looking at her ComLink.

"Send me any information on the parts that need to be replaced. I can put in a priority order for them." Abzu adds as Cana wipes her fingers.

 No.28692

>>28691
"That would be appreciated, thank you. On a side note, have you been in contact with the other groups assigned to our away team, Abzu? It seems there's been a bit of trouble on their end."
I'll make a mental note to ask Cana whether the jamming she was talking about was related to this, or was circumstantial.

 No.28693

>>28692
"I'm getting some updates now. Seems the jamming had been pretty intense earlier." Abzu says. "It appears that, hold on…" She starts poking on her ComLink.

"I'm going to let the guards know about the situation, but see if we can finish cataloging the parts. Sooner we're done, sooner we can get to the safety of the ship." Ijapa intrudes.

"Yes, it appears that some of your shipmates took our staff to the hospital, but no threatening injuries are reported."

 No.28694

>>28693
"Right. We'll wrap up here, and if we can't get in touch with your mother, Cana, before we're done, we'll just have to drop you off at home before we head back to the ship."
I'll set back to work.
"Shouldn't take too long."

 No.28695

>>28694
"Okay…" With no enthusiasm, Cana continues picking up the small bolts that are loose in the corners.

"That might be sooner than expected. Our Security forces found one of the Jammers. We've begun placing more people on our system. I think I just found her mother." Abzu states.

 No.28696

>>28695
"Don't be so down about it, kid. Think of it like this: you keep working on your studies and understanding of the craft, and people will be begging you to join their crews."
Continue organizing.
"About how far from here does it say she is, Abzu?"

 No.28697

>>28696
"Only a few levels below us." Abzu says. "However, according to our notes, her location would put her within the walls themselves. It's an unauthorized area."

 No.28698

>>28697
"Maintenance tunnels? Judging by the elevators, those are probably some of the most dangerous places to be, if you don't have the right training."
I'll stop sorting for a minute.
"We could check it out in case she's not in there by choice."

 No.28699

>>28698
"I would appreciate it. Once we're done here, we'll deliver her to her mother. I can have several security agents escort us there when you're ready." Abzu says.

As for the rest of your work, there is still plenty of boxes and caches to go through. Ijapa logs into the local computer and gives a negative look.

 No.28700

>>28699
"Thanks. I'd rather not have to shoot another sign just to clear a path…"
As for Ijapa, I'll comment on his expression.
"What's the matter?"

 No.28701

>>28700
"The notes here. It's all corrupted."

 No.28702

>>28701
"Tsk. That means there might not even be anything left that's salvageable. Any idea if it was hardware or software failure?"

 No.28703

>>28702
"I'm not hearing any noises, and the program itself seems intact, but everything here is messed up."

 No.28704

>>28703
"Might be encrypted or just scrambled? Need me to take a look at it?"

 No.28705

>>28704
"Give it a look. I can't even recognize some of these symbols."

Roll Tech.

 No.28706

>>28705
'2d6+2'

Roll #1 2, 2 + 2 = 6

 No.28707

>>28706
After some digging around, you find that it is neither encryption OR data corruption; the previous users of this computer have installed their language packs. Languages that aren't in your ComLink at the moment.

 No.28708

>>28707
"Looks like it's just new languages, Ijapa. Abzu, are you familiar with these languages?"

 No.28709

>>28708
"Let me take a look." She comes over, ticking on her DataPad, even letting a concerned expression come over her face. "So, recognition of the languages is in my system, but we don't technically have the Language Packs available. These were installed by the others who came before you."

 No.28710

>>28709
Sigh and rub my chin for a moment.
"Well, there goes the easy way of finding out what was in here. We're probably going to be spending the rest of the day just cataloging this stuff, unless someone can barter a proper translation for this off someone in the market."
I'll have an errant thought.
"Hey, Cana, can you read this? Just out of curiosity."

 No.28711

>>28710
"Oh, those? They're just numbers. My mom has all those listed outside our door." She replies plainly, pointing at a few and reading them off to you. "I don't know all the words there, but the numbers are easy."

 No.28712

>>28711
"Well, that's actually really convenient, because I don't know any of these words."
I'll think for a second.
"Do you know anyone who could help fill in the gaps for the rest of them? Not for free, of course."
I'll go down to a whisper, so that only Cana can hear.
"Your mother, maybe, so we can get her out of restricted areas before the security shows up."

 No.28713

>>28712
She gives you a look and thinks for a moment before relenting. "Yeah, she's always talking to different people in different languages. I bet she'd be able to do it."

 No.28714

>>28713
"Well, it's worth a shot. If you could send her a message, that would be very helpful."
At this rate, this kid's going to end up an orphan. Nevermind getting engineering training, she probably won't finish basic education. I am going to get such shit looks for bringing back an intern.

 No.28715

>>28714
"Yeah, okay…" She struggles a bit to bring up her ComLink, but she gets the message out after you hear a telltale beeping.

"If she's what she's cracked up to be, we might be able to offer her a contract with the Administration. We get more Xenos with mover 'varied' languages far too refularly." Abzu adds.

 No.28716

>>28715
"Does the immigration office not keep records of what languages new arrivals know?"
I'll return to taking stock of local inventory while we wait.

 No.28717

>>28716
"That is a 'goal' for now. As you may have noticed, our sponsors are afforded, and buy themselves, certain liberties." Abzu's irritation is palpable.

"Which means overcrowding and all the loonies being tossed from their worlds onto ships…" Ijapa adds.

 No.28718

>>28717
"I see."
Not much else we can do except wait until Cana's mother decides to make an appearance or not, then.

 No.28719

>>28718
Cana's ComLink vibrates and you see her run off to a corner of the warehouse. Despite being an alien many times your size, you can tell she isn't all that happy about this. "She was buying some things nearby, she says she'll be here in a few minutes."

'2d10'

Roll #1 4, 2 = 6

 No.28720

>>28718
There's a knocking at the door, then Cana nods at Ijapa as he opens the door to reveal a rather harried and overloaded Hawk like Avian. You can see the exhaustion in her eyes and body as she's hauling all manner of goods on a massive backpack.

"Cana, you're safe." She tries to be excited, but she looks stressed. "I was worried there. Who are all these folks?"

 No.28721

>>28719
Well, it's better this than her mother getting thrown in prison for being somewhere off limits or just plain shot. I don't know how the security detail works here.
I suppose while I'm waiting I can check and see if we actually do have any open internship spots for new mechanics. We're certainly not hurting on space for new crew members, at least.

 No.28727

>>28721
She's dressed in typical clothing of a house cleaner, with a dirty-ish apron on her and a backpack full of obvious cleaning supplies and bottles. Abzu gives her a sideways glance while Cana goes to her and points you all out.

"Cana says you needed some translation work? Point me to it and I'll do my best for it. Might finally use that degree of mine."

Not only are there Internships, there are still full positions available with a few more recently opened up. Despite it's precarious situation, seems the Foundation funding the Ankylosaur is going through with the contract with Sela…

 No.28728

>>28727
"Yes, this terminal here is loaded up with languages not in our database, and I got the idea of asking for your help after Cana recognized some of the symbols. She's been a big help already, so I was hoping you could assist as well."

 No.28729

>>28728
"She's a curious girl, I'll give her that. Let me see them…" Cana's mother walks up to the Terminal and starts checking stuff with her ComLink. Ijapa is talking with Cana, who you can catch on your camera's sneaking looks at her.

"Many of these are technical terms that might take me some time to find, but I recognize the notes more. Wow, haven't seen so many languages outside of a quiz, though."

 No.28730

>>28729
"The fact you recognize them at all is a good sign. We'd like you to start right away, if possible?"
Well, we did lose a lot of crew during the pirate attack at takeoff. We've got to replace them somehow. And I can't steal the qualified engineers from this place, they need more than they have.

 No.28731

>>28730
"As long as I can keep Cana supported, I'll take whatever you offer, Computron. I'm Petry by the way." She offers a feathered hand to your mech, unaware of your situation or size.

 No.28732

>>28731
I can still pretend here.
I'll gently (as gently as a robot suit can) shake her hand.
"A pleasure."
Time to send some messages to our dear adjutant Abzu.
So, how many openings for trained translators do you have in your group? Because if we can't get our hands on a proper codex of languages, we might just snap her up.

 No.28733

>>28517
Better than nothing. I'll strap the pistol to my waist and go

"Understood"
Now look for a green hatch and switches that hopefully haven't been caved in with the circuits

 No.28734

>>28732
"Due to our situation, we may be able to expand. If not, I'll forward you her information. We both seem to be in need of her services." Abzu says, quickly turning back to her DataPad.

"I heard about the incident earlier since some of my clients were there. I think I have you to thank for saving Cana?"

 No.28735

>>28733
'2d6-1'

Roll #1 3, 1 - 1 = 3

 No.28736

>>28734
I'll give Abzu a thumbs up.
"we didn't do anything so grand, just removed her from a dangerous area and kept an eye on her until we were sure she could be safely returned to you, her parent. The conversation in the interim has been interesting."

 No.28737

>>28733
>>28735
The buttons are easy enough to locate at your size. You can spot where they don't align with the rest of the robot's chasis.

"Alright, be careful, there's a chance it might"

*POP*

The lid has come out with force! It's pushing you back out into space!

 No.28738

>>28736
"Thank you. She's practically all I have of my sister left." She lets out a happy sigh, but you can tell stress is taking some joy out of her. "I'll finish up here in a moment, I think I know where to look up the information I'm going to need. Send me your Language Pack information so I make sure I don't make another translation mistake when getting it to you."

 No.28739

>>28737
Son of a beagle!
Quick, turn myself and the lid and then kick the lid to propel myself back to the robot carcass!

 No.28740

File: 1505521710698.jpg (78.07 KB, 634x422, Capture5.jpg)

>>28737
>>28739

https://pastebin.com/Z8SKXLkf
A large partially upright space beetle comes into view, a double-barreled plasma cannon attached to it's back.

"Voldra has arrived, how might I be of assistance."

It touches the bottom of it's helmet, translator sending its message to Rachel's radio frequency in her language.

 No.28741

>>28738
Well, it's not my place to pry here.
Once I'm sure her comm unit is set to receive, I'll send her a copy of our language pack.
"We'll be here taking inventory, so if there's any trouble, just give a shout and we'll sort out whatever might come up."

 No.28742

>>28740
>>28739
The Lid moves with considerable force, pressing against you and making it hard to move at all Rachel!

 No.28743

>>28740
I float around in space, drifting at a rather fast speed as I stare at this rainbow-looking ass, bettle alien thing
I then move my hand to activate my voice transmitter, a brief breathe-in is heard. "FUCKING, DON'T STAND AROUND, YOU ASSHOLE, HELP ME!" I bark out

 No.28744

>>28741
"Guess I can't escape this type of work so easily." She starts typing on her ComLink at an increasing rate. "Okay, I think I have most of this figured out now…"

She starts pointing at boxes as she looks on at the terminal. Roll Tech and Agility to keep up with her.

 No.28745

>>28744
'2d6+2' tech
'2d6-1' agility

Roll #1 1, 1 + 2 = 4 / Roll #2 5, 5 - 1 = 9

 No.28746

>>28740
>>28743
"Is damaging the lid a viable strategy? I could attempt to shoot it in order to halt it's progress?"

 No.28747

>>28745
Your Mech shuts down in the middle of all this work!

"Hey, is it alright? Do we need to reboot it?" She asks as she starts walking over to you and your improvised cover.

 No.28748

>>28747
Shit.
"Hang, on, it's just software failure for the frame. Give me a second."
'2d6+2' to get this thing back up and running.

Roll #1 3, 5 + 2 = 10

 No.28749

>>28746
It's a simple metal lid, but the Human being pressed against it would be dangerously easy to hit.

 No.28750

>>28743
"Miss, I will need you to let go of the lid in order to get a proper shot. My current bulk prevents me from doing something dextrous as trying to keep up, so halting it by force is a necessity."

 No.28751

>>28746
"How about you freaking grab me before I drift into the nearest gravitational pull, jackass?" I keep struggling and sailing through the void of space, swearing like sailor… A space sailor!

 No.28752

>>28750
"What you think I'm trying to fucking do??!?" to show him, I'm going to try and push myself away from this lid again

 No.28753

>>28752
>>28749
the Voldra lets out a huff of frustration, before trying to pull the human off the lid despite his bulk.
agility [1d10-2]

Roll #1 7 - 2 = 5

 No.28754

>>28748
"Frame? Do Computrons refer themselves as that?" Petry asks while Cana giggles and Ijapa gives a knowing smile as your machine gets back online.

"Oh, here's a few more notes. Can you put the following pieces over there?" Roll Tech once more.

 No.28755

>>28754
"Sometimes."
Give a few experimental motions, then get back to work after I'm sure the reboot is finished.
'2d6+2' tech

Roll #1 6, 1 + 2 = 9

 No.28756

>>28752
>>28753
The lid continues to drift off into space as McKenzie holds Rachel in his manipulators.

"Hey, Rachel, you there! You copy!?" Both of you hear over the radio.

 No.28757

>>28753
>>28756
Grunting, I put my hand to the side of my head "Yes Bok I copy. I got saved by the gay beetle from outer space"
I turn my head to him? Her?
"Can you take me to my ship now, [I]please?[/i]"

 No.28758

>>28755
The Manipulators on your mecha hand are starting to give out as Petry has you move bulkier and heavier items. Even the smaller things are dense, stressing the mecha. At least you won't have to worry about it needing a Chiropractor visit.

"I think just a bit more should do it. What kind of ship is all this stuff going to be for?" Petry asks. "All this seems so old."

 No.28759

>>28757
>>28756
"Of course. What about me seems particularly happy though? I suppose a rescue would be considered gay."
the Voldra flies the human to the ship, holding onto them with his two front graspers.

 No.28760

>>28758
"That's because it is, unfortunately."
Run a few diagnostics, see how much wear I've put on this thing already.
"As for the ship, it's a renovated vessel, so it's got its own… quirks."

 No.28761

>>28759
Rachel ignored that reply, tapping her fingers on the bug's carapace as she was carried.

"Gee thanks a bunch, whoever you are. Walter, voltor, something" I say once I get back up in my mecha, heading back to the main hud

 No.28762

>>28760
"Oh, I'd say that sounds like a step up from the ship we came on. Do you have a room to yourself, or are you packed together like we were?" Petry asks you as Cana shivers from the memory.

Diagnostics come back yellow. They're holding, but more work like this might stress them enough that they break.

>>28761
>>28759
The DataPort of the mining robot is now exposed, a soft yellow light coming out from its many access ports.

"Rachel, who are you talking to out there? Did you find someone?" Bok asks.

 No.28763

>>28761
"I am Voldra, but if you prefer human names, you can call me McKenzie!"
the Voldra says in an enthusiastic tone, looking at the mining robot.

 No.28764

>>28763
It's an older unit, obviously been through a lot. However, there's a few dents and dings and other marks on it that don't seem natural out here in space.

 No.28765

>>28762
"Currently there's a crew shortage, so there are quite a few empty rooms. Many of the people who signed on changed their minds after difficulties during launch. Therefore, in most cases the crew has rooms to themselves, with the rest to be filled out as needed."
I'll drum my fingers on the top of my control console for a second.
"How much of the heavy lifting is left, by the way? Arm servos are in the yellow, currently."

 No.28766

>>28762
>>28763
"I'll explain later Bok, let's focus on what we gotta do here first okay? I'm jacking in" let's find a good plug to do that
"Yeah yeah it's nice to meet you Mckenzie, can you do me a real big favor and stay still while you tell me what you were doing in this devoid part of the space?"

 No.28767

>>28765
"Notes seem to end here. I'm just adding in language notes for whoever follows up. Though I will admit this place looks cleaner than Cana's room." Petry has a giggle, but you can see Cana try to hide after that statement.

"Excuse me, may I have a word with you?" Abzu asks as she pulls Petry off to the side.

 No.28768

>>28766
"Of course. On the ports themselves, there should be some numbers. Input them on the screen I'm going to bring up on your ComLink and follow the prompts." Roll Tech.

 No.28769

>>28766
"Tell me if you need any assistance, I'm much better with tech than the majority of my race. As for my purpose, I've come with supplies requested by another of my race, and to join the Ankylosaur! Did you not think it odd I had your radio frequency when we met?"

 No.28770

>>28767
"Alright."
And I think it's time I had a talk with Cana as well, to inform her what I plan to do here. I'll take care of that while Petry and Abzu are occupied.

 No.28771

>>28770
Abzu's face barely betrays any emotion, but for someone with a beak, Petry seems to be jumping through many of them.

Cana's carrying whole bunch of dirty bolts she found. If you hadn't seen her earlier, you'd think she had black feathers to begin with.

 No.28772

>>28768
'2d6-1' buncha nerd shit
>>28769
Briefly turn to him "So you are another giant alien joining the Ankylosaur, guess I won't have to arrest and question you after all, great" I say without a hint of excitement in my voice as I work on these numbers and shit
"And, I don't need your help here, so thank youu"

Roll #1 2, 4 - 1 = 5

 No.28773

>>28772
>>28771
McKenzie spectates, looking over Rachel's shoulders.
"So what are you doing with this mining robot?"

 No.28774

>>28772
Your ComLink starts glitching as you work, occasionally flashing as you type into it.

"Hey… you OK over…" Bok's signal is getting cut.

 No.28775

>>28771
"So, Cana, I had a quick talk with Abzu earlier. Mostly concerning you and your mother's position."
I'll settle the mech down so I'm closer to head level.

 No.28776

>>28775
"What did you talk about? Are we going to have move again?" Cana asks with some concern.

 No.28777

>>28776
"Well, in a manner of speaking. You see, I gave Abzu a choice. A very simple one, really."
I'll pause for a second, then continue.
"Either she employs a translator that your city desperately needs, or we do."

 No.28778

>>28777
She stops and looks at you for a moment, thinking and processing.

"That means, she gets a real job right? We won't have to live there anymore?"

 No.28779

>>28778
"That's the gist of it, yeah."
I'll hold up my arms quickly, though.
"But don't get too excited just yet. Save the enthusiasm until your mom mentions it. Though, I know that'll be hard."

 No.28780

>>28779
"I hope she picks to work with you. Even if it's a small room, I'd rather do that instead." She says cheerily, picking up a few bits and pieces.

"Looks like they found out. I expected as much." Petry says, walking up behind you and Cana. "I guess you know about this and the offers I have. She made it perfectly clear," pointing back at Abzu who has her wing arms crossed, "that I have to pick quickly. I'm obviously tempted by both, but she insisted I find out about you first. What's going on?" Petry asks you. Ijapa has a smile on his face and is getting his ComLink ready.

 No.28781

>>28780
"Well, there are a few internships that your daughter could take advantage of in the mechanics/engineering sector, if you do decide to come along with us. And we do need a translator familiar with the languages in this system, since our libraries aren't as complete as we'd hoped."
I'll return to standing height.
"So, what it boils down to, really, is whether you want to stay here and work, or come with us and work and at the same time provide a continued education and career for your daughter as well."
After a brief pause, I'll throw in one more.
"Plus you'd get an apartment to yourselves. Two bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen, and lounge area. Normally they'd shove four crew in them, but we are under a bit of a shortage…"

 No.28782

>>28781
"It's a real good offer, better than the one we have now at least." Petry runs a wing over her head, deep in thought. You can see her eyes moves as she starts doing calculations. "What happened today isn't a one-off thing. Next time, Cana might not be so lucky to run into a friendly Computron and staff." She looks at Cana, eagerness in her eyes. "Even without knowing too much about you, I think it's the only safe option I have right."

"YES!" Cana shouts, hugging her mother.

 No.28783

>>28782
"Well, then, I suppose this is 'welcome aboard.'"
I'll hold out a hand.
"Fair warning, one of the races onboard the ship are very tiny. Which, I'm sure, will take a little getting used to."

 No.28784

>>28783
Petry tilts her head to the side while Cana and Ijapa, and even Abzu, sneaks in a laugh.

"How tiny?"

 No.28785

>>28784
"Well…"
I'll back the covering.
"About this tiny."
Wave from the cockpit.

 No.28786

>>28785
Petry stands shocked as you wave, Ijapa taking a recording with his ComLink. "That's you?" She puts up a feathered finger near you. "This isn't one of Cana's pranks?"

 No.28787

>>28786
"Nope. I am one of the engineers who's supposed to keep the ship running. Don't worry, though, the ship is appropriately-sized for people of your stature, so fitting won't be a problem."
I'll shrug.
"Like I said, it will take some getting used to."
I'll snap my fingers.
"Oh, right, before I forget. If you ever decide to pick any of us up, we're heavier than we look. The planet we come from was comparatively high-pressure, so we, as a species, are all pretty dense. You'll more than likely run across at least a few people who don't mind being picked up at random, but in most cases, asking first is the polite thing to do."

 No.28788

>>28787
"Can we? Can we? Can we?" Cana shoots off quickly.

"…" Petry just stares at you, occasionally looking like she's going to say something but be unable to do so. Then she looks at Cana. "I think the answer is obvious in this case." Cana explodes, jumping and shouting in celebration. "Wait, did she pick you up?"

 No.28789

>>28788
"Just to help me get onto the table once or twice. After I asked her to. She has a good sense of restraint."

 No.28790

>>28789
"This feels way too off, but I think it's the only choice I have." Petry says.

"Don't worry, it's much nicer when you get there." Ijapa finally chimes in, putting a hand on her shoulder. "You're gonna like them."

[Pause]

 No.28881

>>28773
"Hey, do you copy? Is this working?" You hear a new voice come in over the radio.

 No.28882

>>28881
"I can emulate noises, though not very well." the Voldra confirms back into the radio.

 No.28883

>>28882
"Okay, that'll work. My name is Bok, I'm with the Ankylosaur's Security Team, and I'm hoping you're armed and available to help us out right now. We've got a bit of a situation out there where the two of you are."

 No.28884

>>28883
"I don't see a situation, besides this disgruntled human; but yes, I'm equipped with heavy artillery in case of hostile contact."

 No.28885

>>28884
"Yeah, get used to that one being irate often." You can hear a sigh coming from the other side. "We're getting some information about anomalous radio signals, that's why she's out there. But now that I was able to get her out there, I'm picking up more. Think you can give a few a look when I send you the coordinates?"

 No.28886

>>28885
"Of course, my intention was to help out to begin with. Send the coordinates and I'll head that way."

 No.28887

>Wan
"Did you get everything sis?" Pazu asks as they walk towards you near the Shuttle landing area.
"I think so. This should be most of it. Abzu says she'd get a crew to take the rest." Zapu adds on. Behind them in a hovercart is a massive amount of
over stuffed luggage. Even your mech would have to lean back to catch the full sight of the mountain.

"Sorry if it doesn't leave you too much space." Zapu adds. "You got those items you bought with you, right?"

>>28886
"I'll be splitting you up, but just ask for help on the radio and even Rachel will rush over to assist. Telemetry puts the signal near a group of asteroids, so stay sharp."

Roll 1d10 for speed.

 No.28888

>>28887
"The ship is big. That kind of concern isn't necessary for us."

 No.28889

>>28887
Rushing B cyka blyat [1d10]

Roll #1 9 = 9

 No.28890

>>28888
"It's going to be so good not to worry about space anymore." Zupa shouts over the mess.
"I think they did give us a closet and call it a room, but I think that'd be like a mansion to you, huh?" Pazu is now looking at where you're located rather than the Mech's head, in comparison to how they were before. "You'll give us the tour, right? What kind of things are on the ship?"

 No.28891

>>28890
"I wouldn't be a very good tour guide, it's so big I haven't visited many places in it yet. I spend a lot of time with the Fold research team, so I never have the time to visit the ancillary structures like the leisure domes or hydroponic farms."

 No.28892

>>28889
You make short work of the distance, quickly approaching your target destination. It's a group of about 6 asteroids, floating around each other. Your ComLink vibrates more and more, it's trying to locate the source of the radio signal. Roll Tech to tune it better.

 No.28893

>>28892
"I'm picking up something, hold on."
Tech 4 [1d10] no bonus

Roll #1 6 = 6

 No.28894

>>28891
"Woah, we've never been in a real colony ship. It sounds so well equipped compared to the ships we were in." Pazu says, trying to nudge her things into the shuttle that just landed.
"The ships we were in were smelly and cramped. Even with us being smaller, they just took it as a way to shove more people in. All they gave us was rations and MREs." Zupa says as she and even the pilot try to get in Pazu's things. "Do you think we could visit them with you?"

 No.28895

>>28893
After some tweaking and tuning, your ComLink gives a much better reading on the location of the radio signal.

There seems to be a body, floating in space, but it's hard to make out from your location, especially as the asteroids orbit each other.

 No.28896

>>28895
"Picking up a lifeform - incapacitated or dead. I'm moving forward to investigate, aware it might be a decoy beacon."

 No.28897

>>28894
"Friend-Dusky works in the Hydroponics plant, so we could introduce you when we visit."

 No.28898

>>28896
"Alright, we'll be trying to get our info system tuned to you as soon as we can. Proceed with caution." Bok tells you.

Approaching the body, it's actually another mining droid. However, this one has numerous holes torn through it. It's equipment is perforated, with it's data core exposed and occasionally flashing. The most noticeable thing is that it seems that someone painted a big smile on where it's head would be…

 No.28899

>>28897
"Did you visit him there? What is it like?" Pazu turns to you inquisitively.
"We were barely getting Sela's set up, even with the land and ocean available to us." Zapu chimes in.

 No.28900

>>28894
>>28899
"What's Emaree?"

 No.28901

>>28899
"It was very aquatic. Though to be fair, we did not fully explore it, only the areas necessary to get Friend-Dusky to work on time, and the paths with the fastest routing."
Is there anything this drone should do to speed up the loading process?
"If nothing else, we have not heard any complaints from Friend-Dusky, so we assume the hydroponics facilities are adequate."

 No.28902

>>28899
At some point, I'll be ambling up to join the others, with Cana and her mother in tow. The parts we traded for should either be directly behind or here already.

 No.28903

>>28901
"Even with so much water here, I want to see it." Pazu says, shoving.
"What's your friend like?" Zapu asks.

>>28900
"Terrible."
"Horrible."
"Food." The two girls say in unison, trying to shove the luggage through the door with one big push. Unfortunately, they failed to get it through and the whole thing falls on them, popping open and spilling too much clothing over them.

 No.28904

>>28903
Grab two big armfuls of luggage!

"You brought a lot," I observe

 No.28905

>>28898
"Another droid with clear signs of tampering with the data core, numerous holes. Any factions in this part of space that use a smiley face as a logo?"

McKenzie keeps enough distance from the droid, incase it's hiding a bomb. Using his knowledge of the shadier parts of the galaxy, he looks for jury-rigged traps.
Street Smarts [1d10+1]

Roll #1 10 + 1 = 11

 No.28906

>>28902
"At least we won't have to share a ride with all the stuff like I did." Ijapa says to the Mother and Child in tow with you. "The ship I was in was just full of so much junk and bits and pieces, I'm surprised I'm not a cyborg now."

Cana listens to him, carrying a case full of old toys and a backpack with loose clothing. Petry looks far more burdened, looking like she's carrying a backpack on the front and an even bigger one on the back.

"Is that all you're bringing?" Cana asks as she runs up to your mech, but looking right at you.

 No.28907

>>28903
Fold-jump to the inside of the shuttle so that we can start pulling in luggage, one piece at a time.
"Friend-Dusky is generally cheerful, especially when swimming. He also has a good sense of curiosity and seems to enjoy trying new things. That may be part of why he signed on to this mission."
Thinking back on it, that's actually somewhat of a deviation from the general militant leaning of his people in general, isn't it?

 No.28908

>>28906
"Well, all of the rest of the supplies will be shipped up in other shuttles. This trip is just for the away team and whoever we're bringing back, it looks like."
I'll stop for a second.
"Speaking of, are you sure you don't want a hand, Petry?"

 No.28909

>>28904
"Clothing turned out to be real cheap for us."
"We always bought some, but then we'd turn around and make new clothes out of it."
"How much clothing do Humans have?"

>>28905
The first thing you notice is that the core was removed first. There doesn't seem to be signs of the lids among the rubble. Second thing you notice is a simple, stick like object attached to the destroyed droid. It's in very good conditions, so it had to be added after the shooting started…

 No.28910

>>28909
"Well, normally I just have my Fold suit, which is supposed to be made of conductive material but I think it's really just a form-fitting jumpsuit. But ever since I started on this ship, I've been getting free doll clothes. Since the research program always bought my clothes I never thought much about shopping for that kind of thing."

 No.28911

>>28909
"Data Core has been removed, lid's gone. Trying to figure out what this stick-shaped tech is without getting too close. Attached post tampering. Dimensions are…"
McKenzie describes the implanted tech, hoping the person on the other end of the radio knows what it is, if he doesn't.

>Confidence: Every time you land a Critical hit, you gain +1 to your next roll. This improved roll can trigger the same effect.

Tech roll [1d10+1]

Roll #1 3 + 1 = 4

 No.28912

>>28907
Many of his species are friendly with each other from a distance, but they tend to close ranks quickly when approached by outsiders. Dusky is an outlier, only a few others have been observed like him.

"The water there is safe to swim?"
"They tell us to stay out of the water, that you'll get sucked down if you're not prepared."
"Have you gone swimming before?" Pazu questions you about it, trying her best to climb out of her mess while you help.

>>28908
"I think I can…" She starts to lean back from the weight and is having some difficulty righting herself. "…handle it…"

 No.28913

>>28912
"I'd rather you not spend your first day in the medbay. Besides, there's no way that luggage is heavier than the landing gear parts I was carting around earlier."
I'll extend one of my arms.
"I promise I won't peek inside."

 No.28914

>>28910
"Hmm, when you think about it, it'd be pretty inexpensive to clothe Humans."
"Even we can get away with good deals."
"Plus, we had to learn to fix our own clothing. They don't make much in our size here."
"Oh, how about we teach you?!" Pazu finally shouts after getting some of their luggage into the door.

>>28911
"I've seen a couple of these in tampering cases. You move them and they send out a signal to whoever doesn't want to be bothered. Toss out a few of these, put them in places where you think people will move through, and you've got a cheap and easy security system. Here, do this…" Bok gives you instructions on how to remotely connect to the device. "Because space is well, so empty, it's constant, you can throw things out and know where they'll be, and you can adjust their power source to match." Connecting to the transmitter, you're able to get some information about which radio anomaly to investigate next. "Move carefully, whatever is causing this is armed."

Roll 1d10 to make it to the next spot.

 No.28915

>>28912
"The water is not inherently dangerous, though it is probably best to stay with someone who works there, since they would know whether that reservoir is going to be used for something soon or not.
"As to swimming, yes, Friend-Dusky took us swimming on this drone's first day on-board. That was this drone's first experience swimming, though many other drones have also swam in various waters before."

 No.28916

>>28914
"I don't have much talent for making or fixing things. I'm better at the other kind of thing, where you break stuff."

 No.28917

>>28913
"If it won't be too much, thanks." Petry looks at your Mech's head before catching herself and looking at its core and you. Picking up her luggage, the weight warning system lights up, immediately hitting into the high Yellow warning area. "Sorry, it's still hard to accept that you're there, inside."

"Speaking of inside, the Security team sent some kind of "Instant Cockpit" in the shuttle. Once we're inside, I'll put it on." Ijapa says, looking at the massive amount of luggage and clothing trying to get into the shuttle and sighing.

"Oh, can I help? Can I?!" Cana bursts out.

 No.28918

>>28914
Moving on [1d10]

Roll #1 10 = 10

 No.28919

>>28915
"Sis, they might have a real beach then." Pazu looks longingly at her sister before melding into the luggage as it starts being pushed more and more inside.
"It'll have to be better than the ones we had back on our world." Zupa adds, helping to push more. "What's the beach like in your world?"

>>28916
"Even better, we'll teach you right and proper!"
"We're almost pros!"
"But, you had to have some kind of other hobby, right?" Pazu shouts to you, the luggage almost making it through.

 No.28920

>>28917
I'll mull it over for a bit.
"Well, I will need a pair of eyes to help line it up, so sure. Between you and Ijapa, we should be able to get it on firmly enough to last the trip back to the ship so I can fix it properly."
Goddamn, what did this woman pack, everything and the kitchen sink?
"And it's no problem, Petry. Not all of the crew is licensed for mech piloting, so the majority of people will be floating around the halls on skimmers or hitching rides on people. Though, that might be a little weirder, come to think of it."

 No.28921

>>28918
You make incredible timing, borrowing gravity to propel yourself even faster to your destination. What you find seems quite dangerous, as you manage to spot some alien in a space suit and a battle rifle floating around a dangerously equipped gun ship. He seems to be looking at a small Mining Droid recharge station and a parked droid, not looking around and behind him. He turns the droid around, shooting at it after looking it over.

 No.28922

>>28919
"Our world? Some beaches are fairly regular, and make good launching points for fishing-dives, others are blue-beaches where the Fold with sweep you up and carry you off to somewhere else. There is even one that will take you straight down and leave you buried deep below the sands."
A small shudder runs down our carapace.
"It is… not a pleasant experience."

 No.28923

>>28921
"Armed individual tampering with another- make that shooting another droid. Gunship nearby. Will there be backup, or should I engage. I should be able to incapacitate most foes with the force of my plasma rifle."

 No.28924

>>28920
Petry seems surprised at the last statement, but Cana just seems happy at it.

"It's going to take me some time to get used to that, you know." She finally says.

The group of people trying to shove the luggage inside finally succeed, opening up the rest of the shuttle for the rest. Or at least until the second mountain of luggage tries to get inside.

"I see the stuff there. Come on, let's read the instructions and try to get it on. This probably won't be the last time it gets damaged." Ijapa says as Cana runs off to container marked "Equipment: Sensitive" filled with all manner of materials and sprays.

Roll Tech.

 No.28925

>>28924
"Well, I haven't seen anyone try to hitch a ride without asking, so you won't have them cling to your legs or anything. We may be small, but the crew is professional at least."
'2d6+2' tech

Roll #1 4, 5 + 2 = 11

 No.28926

>>28924
>>28925
"Greetings, Friend-Frank! Was your venture as exciting and fruitful as ours?"

 No.28927

>>28922
"I don't want to be buried. All this stuff was bad enough." Zapu says, pushing the now entered luggage down to the back of the shuttle.
"A Blue Beach…" Pazu says inquisitively. "Our world was very polluted. The beach, wasn't nice. But a blue beach, can we see it one day?"

>>28923
"I can't raise Rachel. Something is *STATIC* I think you should *STATIC*."

The shooter in the space suit turns his attention away from the Droid, scanning the horizon around him, looking for something. He brings his gun close and begins propelling himself towards his gunship, strongly armed but crudely assembled.

 No.28928

>>28926
"What? Oh, hi. Exciting? Not especially. Fruitful? Well, we found what we were looking for, and a few people we weren't, so I guess so. Speaking of, this is our new linguist and her daughter, an intern-slash-student. Petry, Cana, this is… uh, well, I don't recall if he took a name yet but he's called a Voldra."

 No.28929

>>28919
"A hobby, huh… Hm, well, I spend a lot of time with the other girls and work hard, too. It seems like I don't have a lot of time for hobbies, now that I think of it. I never really thought about it."

 No.28930

>>28927
"Do not worry, that beach is an anomaly, and one we have thoroughly mapped out and cordoned off to prevent any accidents on our home planet."
Give Pazu the closest equivalent this drone can get to a smile.
"It is causes by Fold energy, not pollution, but we would be willing to show you someday, should the opportunity arise. It is quite novel once you are able to Fold-jump on your own."
>>28928
"Ah, very fruitful then. This drone's endeavor was quite exciting; two criminals attempted to rob the crystal vault while we were there, and in ended up being a bit of a shootout among all the Fold crystals! We could send you pictures if you wish, since we were recording it all for Friend-Duana.
"Speaking of new friends, this is Friend-Pazu and Friend-Zapu. They are going to assist with financial negotiations with other races!"

 No.28931

File: 1506398167019.gif (1.15 MB, 400x149, The_Queen_Pod_plasma_canno….gif)

>>28927
"I'm going to assume what you said was 'I think you should back off.' However, due to my guerilla advantage of being able to hide behind the debris and me having visual on the target with his back turned, I'm going to engage and destroy their craft in the attempt to strand the shooter and interrogate post battle. If the scenario escalates dangerously, I'll take to the asteroids and evade."

The humming of the plasma charging in his back-mounted cannon is lost to the vacuum of space, but two consecutive green lines of light fire at the gunship, striking the hull.

>Steady Weapon; instant: +1 to this weapon's attack that turn. Cannot move or take cover this turn.


>High-Powered, Energy Weapon, Rifleman: Crit Range -3


>Quality Parts: Grants an additional attack with this weapon per turn.


[1d10+1] Crits on 7, Critfail on 2
(if crit, Confidence gives +1 to the next roll)
[1d10+1] Crits on 7, Critfail on 2

Roll #1 10 + 1 = 11 / Roll #2 5 + 1 = 6

 No.28932

>>28931
(Confidence does trigger, causing the second shot to be a 7, another critical)

 No.28933

>>28930
"Well, I guess that explains what the ruckus earlier was about."
I'll glance over at the two aliens trying to load their things into the ship.
"They seem nice?"
Not much I can say here.

 No.28934

>>28929
"Oh, then leave that to us!"
"There's a lot we can show you!"
"And it's important, too. Especially in this line of work." Zupa looks over your mech. "Maybe you've seen others get involved in a hobby or past time. Is there something you've wanted to try?"

>>28930
"I just want to see it. Sela looked so grand when we first arrived, but the water has always seemed so murky here. But sometimes, it was clear and beautiful."

>>28931
>>28932
The weapon penetrates the shoddily built gunship, hitting numerous systems as it exits through the other side, igniting its fuel source. This causes the Gunship to explode, launching the space alien back against the charging station. This leaves the Alien Staggered, trying to reach for its weapon and establish where everything is.

>>28933
"Hello, I'm Pazu and that's my sister Zapu." The small Alien says as she bows. "It's a pleasure to meet, and hopefully, soon work with you!" She says excitedly as Ijapa and Cana work on putting on the improvised canopy. First they try to cover it up with the sealing tape and spray the tightener on, but they can't seem to get it to align properly, even with you trying to get it from the inside. Roll Tech once more.

[PAUSE]

 No.28935

>>28934
'2d6+2'
"You too."

Roll #1 5, 4 + 2 = 11

 No.29080

>>28935
It wasn't in the instructions that Ijapa had to press with his whole body, but now you know that you have to put a fair bit of force to keep the sealants in place. You might actually be able to fly with this stuff on.

"Do your machines get damaged a lot?" The knee high aliens ask in tandem.

 No.29081

>>28934
"It is safe to say that Friend-Dusky and the other workers keep the waters on-board clear and clean. It is their job, after all."
>>28935
>>29080
"That is a good question. How did you sustain such damage? You said your journey was not as exciting as ours; do you simply not find combat as exciting as we do?"

 No.29082

>>29081
"Maybe they'll have clear and warm water. It's too cold to go into the water here."

"And unsafe too. Real deep." Zapu adds.

>>29081
"It wasn't really combat or a fight that did it." The Reptilian security guard with Frank says.

"It was a fall, because someone else was fighting." The small, Avian child adds after pressing on the canopy materials on Frank's machine.

 No.29083

>>29080
>>29081
"It's… kind of an embarrassing story, really."
>>29082
I'd shoot them looks, but the cockpit's sealed back up so they wouldn't see them anyway.
"Well, that and flying with a cracked cockpit is usually asking for trouble. Only reason I did is due to extenuating circumstances."

 No.29084

>>29083
>>29081
"They rounded up a lot of people, at least what I could see on our way up." Petry says. "Strange to think that if this opportunity hadn't come up, we might be among them."

 No.29085

>>29082
Pause, our mandibles twitching in what could be interpreted as half-formed attempts at speech.
"…We do not remember your mech being so fragile when fighting off the raiders together."
>>29083
"Your cockpit was not cracked when we arrived on this world. It seems your journey was much more eventful than ours. Did you truly find none of it exciting?"
>>29084
"Rounded up? For what purpose?"

 No.29086

>>28934
The Voldra floats into view, back-mounted gun swiveled to point at the alien but not firing just yet.

"Disarm your weapons and surrender yourself and you won't meet the fate of your spacecraft. I assure you, if I can pierce through a ship, your flesh won't provide much more protection."

He drifts closer while speaking into his translator on open frequency, then switching back to the frequency of the ship,

"I think I've got the suspect apprehended. He ain't going anywhere now that his ship's gone, so either he's coming with me for questioning or he's stranded in space."

 No.29087

>>29084
"Funny how life works out."
Time to load up our spoils and sundries, I suppose, if Pazu and Zapu are done fighting to fit their sacks of cloth on there.
>>29085
"Well, as I said, embarrassing story. The suit tipped over and it landed wrong. It's kind of hard to maintain structural integrity when you've got a mob of people using you as something to step on."

 No.29088

>>29087
"Ah, yes, that makes more sense than if you had simply tripped," the drone nods.
"The crush of a mob unaware of the others surrounding them can be quite dangerous; we still find it baffling how such gatherings can achieve anything purposeful when they have so little ability to react."

 No.29089

>>29085
"There were riots and battles between gangs that broke out. Cana told me all about the struggles and issues Frank and Ijapa had getting her out." The overburdened, Hawk-like Avian replies.

>>29087
They're pushing in the last bag now.

"I think I fell on it too." Ijapa adds. "Cana, you were pushing against him too, right?" Cana looks away but nods.

>>29086
His arm twitches a bit, still burdened by the shock of the explosion, before finally giving up. He raises his arm, as if to surrender.

"Be **STATIC**. We need **STATIC**." Bok tries to reply on the radio.

You get a better view on the Alien, who seems to be long and thin. He's glaring at you, but his tight body-suit doesn't seem to have any pouches or pockets big enough to hold a gun in.

 No.29090

>>29088
"It happens. People panic, and priority shifts to making sure they make it out."
>>29089
I'll wave dismissively.
"It's fine, it's not like anything broke that couldn't be fixed. Besides, if it hadn't happened, we wouldn't have hired on a promising linguist and aspiring student."

 No.29091

>>29090
"And we're learning how to put on the new canopy when it happens again!" Cana shouts. Ijapa and Petry give her a look, then you and Wan.

 No.29092

>>29089
>>29090
"See? The only things that happened on this drone's task was a fight with two robbers and Pazu's panic attack without actually panicking. Friend-Frank's journey was much more eventful."
>>29090
"Speaking of which, the journey to the crystal vault proved even more fruitful than expected. We have recovered weapons forged from the dead!"

 No.29093

>>29091
"Yes, you certainly are. Though practical skills generally come after study, usually."
>>29092
"you found what"

 No.29094

>>29089
McKenzie drifts over to frisk the individual for comms, throwing his weapon into space.

"I'm going to dispose of your communications device. You will travel in front of me by two of my body lengths in the direction I determine, and will check behind you after every 60 seconds to see if I've changed directions or stopped, in which case you'll do the same. Comply and you'll most likely be left at the next planet or station alive. Try something funny, and you'll be cooked."

After making sure he doesn't need to repeat himself, he frisks the prisoner for any tracking devices then starts moving back to his original location.

Tech [1d10+1] (bonus from Confidence)

Roll #1 2 + 1 = 3

 No.29095

>>29094
(also deactivating the prisoner's comms)

 No.29096

>>29093
"Weapons, forged from the dead! Specifically, a staff forged from a dead Voldra, and an axe forged from a dead Wasp. We do not know who forged them or why, but it is good that we retrieved them; part of the Voldra treaty specifically forbids either side from using the bodies of the other without express permission."

 No.29097

>>29096
"So that means the weapons you found are going to be transferred to some neutral third party to be properly disposed of?"

 No.29098

>>29092
"We visited lots of places here that I didn't know were here at all too!" Cana shouts happily.

"Those are all places I'm glad we'll never see again." Her mother adds.

>>29094
>>29095
He gives you a quick derogatory remark with his fingers, but seems to be cooperating for the most part. Looking around his body, you do spot a tracking device, but the problem is he's wearing it like a necklace, inside his space suit.

"Do you **STATIC**. Can anyone read me? Reply." Looks like the local jamming is undone as the last remaining sparks of this alien's vehicle finally fade away.

 No.29099

>>29097
"What third party? The treaty was signed by almost every race the Voldra are in contact with, and the ones who did not are generally hostile to any approach from other races.
Besides, these are not just weapons, they are also remains. The proper thing to do would be return them to their respective race for proper funeral rites, but we are one race, and the Wasps are… not very well-known to us."

 No.29100

>>29099
"Well, that's what I meant by 'disposed of', that they'd be laid to rest regarding whatever religious thing your respective races do with the dead."
I'll think for a second.
"Still, I don't think we're going to run across friendly wasps for quite some time. Unless we go looking for them, anyway."

 No.29101

>>29098
McKenzie stops, waiting for the alien to do the same before responding to the comms,

"There we go, out of range of the jammer. Apprehended the vandal and destroyed his vehicle. He's got a tracking device so I'm tentative on bringing him to back. Do you have any EMP devices someone could bring out here? Otherwise you can interrogate him through me by proxy."

 No.29102

>>29100
"Yes, you see our dilemma. More troubling is the fact that we do not remember the voldra this staff was made from- which is something which does not seem possible. We hope that if we can study it's effects and where these weapons came from, we may be able to find answers."
>>29098
"It seems the general consensus among the local population is that there is not a place anywhere here where people would want to be."

 No.29103

>>29102
"Well, that'd be something to bring up with the command crew, really."
Right, the way to the ship should be clear, so let's offload this stupidly heavy bag before my arms fall off.

 No.29104

>>29101
You can hear a sigh of relief from the other side of your ComLink. "Good, we were starting to get real worried here. Looks like there is a whole lot of jamming going off now, but we've got your position marked. Find some cover and we'll be sending over one of their mining ships to pick you up, they'll deal with him. But if you can, get me a name, something to ID him."

>>29102
"The worst part is that it's still a step up from back home." The larger avian says, getting her things nudged into the shuttle. "It's been a struggle and a half to get anywhere here, but at least the air is breathable and the government has tried to accomodate people."

Pazu and Zapu have a shine in their eyes…

 No.29105

>>29103
Looks like most of the people are taking seats. Only a few loose items remain on the tarmac.

"Last Call before takeoff! Get it aboard or it gets left behind!"

 No.29106

>>29104
"Must be others just like him then. I'll hunker down and see if I can't get two prisoners by time you're over here. Can't remove his tracking device without removing his spacesuit."

he floats over to the prisoner, flipping his comms back on,

"Looks like we get to meet and great while we wait for my crew to pick us up, and your crew to try and find you. I'm Voldra, and you are?"

breaking prisoner's hard exterior to open up [1d10+1] Speech

Roll #1 3 + 1 = 4

 No.29107

>>29103
"Perhaps we will, once we have something more to base our goals on."
"Speaking of which, the new recruits are aware of your race? Wan was adamant that we keep that concealed from Pazu and Zapu; has that directive been lifted now?"
>>29104
Help them all finish loading up and boarding the shuttle; if they are eager to leave, then we had best be going.

 No.29108

>>29105
Right, well, I guess I'll be settling this thing in the cargo area to make room for the new passengers. After I load up the last of the loose stuff.

 No.29109

>>29107
"They are aware, though as I said there were extenuating circumstances. Hard to keep secrets when the cockpit is missing, after all."
I'll pause for a beat.
"Make sure you take pictures of their reactions. The faces people make when they realize how small we are can be pretty funny, and you did say you were taking pictures of interesting things."

 No.29110

>>29109
"Ah, yes! Thank you for the suggestion! I'm sure Duana would find it amusing too!"
Shoot Frank the closest Voldra features can come to making a smile.
"We would be happy to send you a copy of the photos if you wish!"

 No.29111

>>29110
"Nah, that's okay. People-watching isn't really my hobby, but thanks for the offer."

 No.29112

>>29106
"Got it, but don't take any unnecessary risks. You haven't even boarded our ship yet."

The prisoner tries to keep a cool exterior. "A Phasmid, and unless you're going to give me a check for a million credits, that's all your getting." After a little prodding, he does finally surrender his name, Palos Inseto.

>>29108
>>29107
There's a few bits that had fallen off of Pazu and Zapu's luggage, but not much more.

Before the ship takes off, a stoic but well dressed Avian with the appearance of an Owl walks into the ship and towards all of you. She looks you over for a moment before tapping on her DataPad.

"Last paperwork to be filled. You're almost all free now." She sends you a good deal of forms through the ComLink.

 No.29113

>>29112
Oh boy, paperwork.
What's it about?

 No.29114

>>29113
Typical legalese absolving Sela and Agari from all claims of personal harm and promises of not stealing any of their intellectual property you may have come across. You can see Ijapa get a message on his ComLink and begin signing the forms.

 No.29115

>>29112
"Very well."
Look through the forms, checking headings and titles first to get a general idea of what they are for.

 No.29116

>>29114
Like hell I'm going to blind sign anything from this place. Read through it.

 No.29117

>>29114
Pazu and Zapu have secretarial skills, so maybe allowing them to look through these forms before signing would be wise.

 No.29118

>>29116
>>29115
It mostly reads out the following:

Sela, and its developer Agari Solutions, are not liable for the following:

Personal Harm
Harm to property
Harm to any property that can be mistaken to belonging to a toy
Emotional Harm
Mental Harm
Harm to your sexual preferences as a matter of entering that floor
Not involving Police from any other sectors
Limiting what you can talk about Sela outside of Agari Solutions' partner species.

 No.29119

>>29118
Wonder how they wormed their way into getting all those escape clauses. Must be because they're the only game in town.
Suppose I'll sign off then, otherwise I suppose I'm not getting off this waterball.

 No.29120

>>29117
Giving them a chance to look it over, they both quickly glare at Abzu, who finally breaks her character and just shrugs at them.

"Here, we've looked this over for a while now." Pazu says.
"It's still thick, but you can sign this one. You won't hold Agari Solutions for anything that happened on Sela." Zupa adds. They bring up a copy of a large file, but much smaller than the one Abzu gave you.

 No.29121

>>29112
"I get defensive and analytical when I'm not surrounded by people, my apologies. My purpose is to collect information about groups of people, so I get antsy when in the vacuum. Still, whoever's out here isn't professional, I'm assuming a scrapper group."

he switches comms to local and continues to chat with the prisoner, bringing up Phasmid music as a talking point in order to de-stress himself.

 No.29122

>>29118
>>29120
Ah yes, this is why we believed they would make a good addition to the ship. Being able to cut through the intentional obfuscation companies seem fond of will be a great asset for the humans.
"Thank you, Friend-Pazu, Friend-Zapu. Your skills are already proving very helpful."

Sign off on the form they produced, and send it back to Abzu.

 No.29123

>>29119
"I wasn't expecting it to be so easy." Abzu says when she sees your signed forms. "Maybe getting the contract with Humans will work out." She finally smiles before starting to walk out.

>>29121
"You want to talk about our music? Are you really Security, or just playing at one?" He laughs over the comms. "Hmm, the crews described it as being bass heavy, but if you want to hear it, you'll have to steal it off the ship. I ain't handing anything over so easily."

>>29122
Abzu raises an eyebrow at you and the girls before walking off the shuttle. The twins smile happily before quickly rushing to their seats and buckling themselves together like children.

The Shuttle turns on, the voyage back to the Ankylosaur is about to begin.

[PAUSE]

 No.29124

The Shuttle begins gaining altitude, the blue of the sky starting to give way to the black of space. Cana, Petry, Zupa, and Pazu sit on the edges of their chair trying to get a view of the Ankylosaur.

"Frank, how many Humans did you say were in the ship?!" Cana asks again, excitedly.

 No.29125

>>29123
"Ah yes, the well guarded secrets of Phasmid culture. I was just making small talk for your benefit, rather than you brooding in silence the whole time. Both doing our jobs, nothing personal between you and me."

The Voldra skitters in a laughing matter, stress from the scenario beginning to die down. None the less, he keeps to checking the horizon and nearby asteroids for movement

 No.29126

>>29124
>>29123
"It is a colony ship for the humans, so there are quite a large number of them on board. However, we do not know the exact number, only that it is relatively high."

 No.29127

>>29125
Despite this being the emptiness of space, the area around you is active. The asteroids are spinning, reflecting light and occasionally hiding a hurtling object. Even without the physical wind, it bodes ill.

Roll Tech, something is near.

 No.29128

>>29126
"We can't pick them up, right? Unless we ask?" She replies, trying to be the first to spot the Ankylosaur.

 No.29129

>>29128
Memories of all the times this drone has picked up and carried humans without asking permission immediately spring to mind. Though in most of those instances, the point was to assist them in reaching their destination faster, so it is probably fine. For us, at least.
"…That is more or less correct. For you, it is best to ask first before picking them up."

 No.29130

>>29124
>>29128
"There's… at least two hundred? You know, I've never really looked past the engineering department. I know we've got a decent amount of pilots, considering what we need to do just to keep the ship up and running, and then there's some of the bridge crew…"
Scratch my chin for a moment.
"But there's probably a lot more than that. I mean, it's not like we take up a lot of space in that ship. And yes, you should ask first. Not everyone enjoys being picked up. Or at least picked up very fast."

 No.29131

>>29129
"Are Humans just not that heavy?" The older Avian asks.

>>29130
"Woah, so many. Way more than what came in the ship we came with… And it isn't packed or anything?" Cana adds.

 No.29132

>>29131
"Well, you know how small we are, right? You could fit a fairly roomy apartment complex for us in one of your regular-sized rooms. As a matter of fact, I think we did, since I helped install one."

 No.29133

>>29132
"I might have reconsidered now that I know all this." Petry says, getting a sad and shocked look from Cana. "Don't worry, this is still the best opportunity we've had in a while." She turns back to you. "I've got some more information from Abzu, but how many more worlds will you be visiting? She said a lot about them being business opportunities."

 No.29134

>>29131
"The opposite, in fact. Humans come from a high-gravity world, and are deceptively heavy. If one does not wish to be picked up, they are probably quite capable of ensuring it does not happen."

 No.29135

>>29133
"Well, I'm only engineering staff. I'm kept at a need-to-know basis for flight plans. My job is just to make sure the ship can make the trip. Since you're going to be linguistics, you'll likely get a more complete picture of where we're headed."
I'll sigh a little.
"Sorry I couldn't give you a more clear picture of what you signed on for at the docks…"

 No.29136

>>29134
"Really…"

>>29132
>>29135
Petry looks at you briefly before turning away.

"It's fine, we got all the wrong information when we came to Sela, so this way must mean it'll be clear skies, right?"

 No.29137

>>29136
"Sounds about right."
I… probably won't tell her about the pirates yet. We've had a lot of pirates. What are the odds we'll get MORE pirates?

 No.29138

>>29136
"Indeed. Though most have been at least somewhat receptive to allowing curiosity to be sated, so long as you're not interrupting them while they are working."
Tilt our head at her comment about clear skies.
"Unlikely. Problems will arise and things will go wrong, as they always do, regardless of species or surroundings. However, the humans have proven quite adept at adapting to and fixing issues as they arise. It is part of why we have taken an interest in them."

 No.29139

>>29137
"I think the worst part was, on the busiest, muggiest days, I liked Sela. The air was clean if you went to one of the outside walkways." She turns back to you. "Did you try them out? The wind is nice." She says with a smile. "As much as I'll like having a real room with Cana, I'll miss it."

This is unregulated space. While Corporations and governments are trying to set up, many criminal groups already have.

 No.29140

>>29138
"Yeah, Mr. Smith is real smart and cool. He got me out of so much trouble!" Cana shouts out.

Petry looks at you and at Frank, the Ankylosaur growing closer ahead. "Hmm, do you at least have a lot of those machines?" She asks, pointing at Wan's Mech. "That one there seems a little, 'fragile'." SHe points at the damage on Frank's mech.

 No.29141

>>29139
I was being optimistic.
"We did end up on one, on the way up to the storage area. And the roof, too, though that was mostly because I needed a place to land after flying over the, uh, disturbance."
I'll think a bit.
"It was… nice, though. Wind was a bit strong, today, though."

 No.29142

>>29141
"I told her not to go there, but it couldn't be helped. There's always ruffians there, causing trouble for everyone." Her eyes light up. "You're not a ruffian, are you Mr. Smith?"

 No.29143

>>29140
"Indeed, they have several of those machines, for ship maintenance, security, and multiple other roles. As for their durability, we suspect part of the reason for Friend-Frank's mech taking damage is due to him attempting to not hurt anyone, leaving himself vulnerable. His mech performed far better when fending off raiders."

 No.29144

>>29143
"That's good to hear. At least Cana will have some decent role models to, uh, look up to."

 No.29145

>>29142
"Ma'am, I am a professional mechanic. I don't have time to be a ruffian."

 No.29146

>>29145
>>29142
"Are you referring to a ruffian as in one who causes trouble and property damage, or one whose flirtations cross societal boundaries?"
>>29144
"Certainly. Not Friend-Wan though; she is a good friend and has a good heart, but Folds head-last."

 No.29147

>>29146
"Both, really. Don't have time for fraternizing, either."

 No.29148

>>29127
[1d10]

Roll #1 3 = 3

 No.29149

Inside the shuttle, the Ankylosaur is now visible to the passengers. The Twins and the Child are looking out the window, while the Mother talks with Ijapa. Bostaur has finally given himself a chance to lean back.

>>29145
She puts up a feathered hand to her beak, her eyes giving off a laugh.

>>28929
>>29147
>>29146
"So what is the difference between you? Frank's machine seems a little too basic for combat, while, uhm, Wan was it? Her machine seems so much nicer looking that I wouldn't let it go into a fight. It actually looks like a tuned-up Butlerbot. What do you do differentyl?" Petry asks.

 No.29150

>>29148
There's an extremely strong radar signal, coming close by! Your ComLink vibrates a warning, someone is trying to get a 3D image of the area! Someone must be approaching, but your hostage doesn't seem to notice…

 No.29151

>>29149
"Well, there's no point in keeping it a secret, since you'll be crew. Wan's mech is capable of fold manipulation. Of course, the thing was put together by an idiot, so half the time it shorts out or feeds back and then I have to fix it. But when it works, it's capable of short-range fold jumps, bending space, all that weird stuff Fold-based weaponry likes to do. My mech can just turn into a jet and carry a gun. Basic stuff, but reliable and durable."
I'll shrug.
"For the most part, her mech just sits in the hangar and looks pretty while we try to fine-tune it."

 No.29152

>>29151
>>29149
"Hey, don't make fun of it just because you don't understand it! It's your job to know how it works."

 No.29153

>>29152
"I know how everything except the fold drive works. It's the person who put it together in the first place that didn't realize you don't have five redundant systems running at the same time if you want the suit to actually function properly."

 No.29154

>>29153
"That's a really unprofessional way to talk!"

 No.29155

>>29151
"Wow, if you hadn't told me, I'd have kept thinking the opposite." Petry puts a hand over her head as she laughs. "I was thinking how it looks like it would make a good caretakerbot for Cana. It looks nice enough that I'd have tried to buy it if i still had my old job. Maybe I should save up for your model. No wonder you told people you were a Computron."

>>29152
A child like Avian quickly comes up to you after looking at the Ankylosaur through the window. "Hey, uhm, can I ask to see you?" She asks, looking into your cockpit.

 No.29156

>>29155
"Okay." Open the cockpit. "Wait, have we met?"

 No.29157

>>29149
>>29151
"It is also worth noting that the mechs are, from our own observations, treated as disposable, or at least repairable. One advantage of the human's small size is that they are very difficult to hit, especially when hidden inside a mech. There have been two occasions where this drone has recovered a human after they were forced to eject due to extensive damage to their mech, and both times the human was unharmed."

 No.29158

>>29154
"Eh. Most mechanics aren't exactly known for talking professionally. As long as we do the work right, you can actually get away with a fair bit of backtalk."
>>29155
"Well, I complain about how unfriendly it is to repair, but it's still a very functional piece of work. When it's running properly, it's got finer movement range than this thing. If they made an unmanned line for daily use, I'd probably have said it would be an option. Total pain in the neck to repair, though."
>>29157
"We do prefer not to burn through them, though. Parts are expensive, especially this far out from standard supply lines."

 No.29159

>>29156
"Oh, come on, can I!?" SHe squeaks out in delight, offering her hand to you. "Can I carry you!? Your suit looks way prettier!"

"Cana, don't be rude." The larger Avian says. "Sorry, she can be real excitable."

 No.29160

>>29159
"Okay, can you unbuckle me?"

To the other one, "Are you part of the crew?"

 No.29161

>>29160
"You might have missed the introduction, but that's Petry, our new linguist, and her daughter, Cana."

 No.29162

>>29157
"Well, I wouldn't mind getting one to watch out for Cana. She disappeared everywhere on Sela. If the parts are easy to get, I might just save up for one." Petry says.

>>29158
"How far is your planet?" One of the Twins asks. "They never told us much, just about, you know…" She makes an approximation of your height with her arms.

 No.29163

>>29160
"Yeah, I saw where Frank's was. I'm sure I can!" Cana reaches in, using her smaller fingers to unclick your restraints.

>>29161
"Did we introduce ourselves to you?" The Twins ask.

 No.29164

>>29161
"Oh!"

>>29163
Climb into her hand, then!

"You're a big girl!"

 No.29165

>>29158
"Certainly. We were speaking relatively; losing the arm of a mech is something which can be repaired with greater ease than with most other races, where they would be losing their physical arm."
Tap our legs together as we lean back, remembering our first encounter with humans.
"It leads you humans to some daring actions. While from your perspective, it is simple pragmatism with little physical risk, to others it can appear to be selfless heroism bordering on reckless disregard for your own well-being."
>>29162
"A worthwhile investment! And the human that comes with it can be quite helpful too."

 No.29166

>>29164
"Wooooahh…" She says, in awe as she has you in her hands. You can see her childlike joy in her big eyes as the twins look on.

 No.29167

>>29162
"Lessee… If I recall right, we've Folded ten times since launch."
>>29163
"At the landing pad, on the way up. Though that was mostly the Voldra mentioning you while you two were fighting your luggage. I'm Frank, by the way. Nice to meet you."
>>29165
"Fair enough. Though, prosthetics are things for people too. With the right interface, we can swap out our own limbs in case we lose them. I'd rather keep all of mine attached, though."

 No.29168

>>29166
"I'm okay with it, but most humans don't like to be picked up, so don't bother them, alright?"

 No.29169

>>29165
"You're plenty brave, even without a machine." Pazu shouts out with a smile. "You took on those crooks without too much trouble."

"That must have made it possible for Mr. Smith to protect Cana. As worried as I might be about his size, if his machine can take a beating, I guess it's fine." Petry adds.

>>29167
"I think our world is farther away." Pazu says. "But it's so bad."

"Yeah, even if we had to go to your planet, I think we'd be on the shuttle headed there if it meant we could leave." Zupa adds, before tilting her head. "They said some basics about your world, that it's okay, but what is it like?"

 No.29170

>>29168
"I know, that's why I asked!" Her feathers are soft and malleable, more so than the last Avian who picked you up, as they give a lot more. You can see the patterns in her feathers much more clearly.

>>29165
>>29168
"Oh, if we buy one of your machines, do you want to come live with us?" Cana asks Wan.

 No.29171

>>29170
"I have a special assignment so I have to stay in a special dollho– I mean special room inside my supervisor's room."

 No.29172

>>29167
"Exactly. There is less hesitation to damage a tool than there is to suffer physical harm."
The drone chitters gently as it taps the recently - patched cockpit of Frank's mech.
"And fixing a broken panel is faster than fixing a broken face."
>>29169
Sit up a bit straighter and idly groom our legs.
"They were hardly the first criminals we have dealt with, and certainly not the best-armed. They were counting on not having to fight for their mark, we were prepared to fight to defend it."

 No.29173

>>29148
testing to see if it links to my post

 No.29174

>>29169
I'll think for a minute.
"Well, there's a lot of trade, that's for sure. So you get a mix of a lot of cultures, lots of different people. And a lot of different food. You ever try Resempian seafood? Crazy stuff. Humans can only survive like, a third of the menu, but what we can eat is really good."
Scratch my chin a second.
"I'll admit I never looked into the immigration details, but I've never noticed an overcrowding problem, though that may have been due to the fact a high-pressure planet isn't exactly the best environment for the larger races. Other than that, it's a pretty peaceful place, all around. Nice place to go on vacation, if nothing else."

 No.29175

>>29172
"Well, yeah, but would believe fixing the face is the cheaper option?"

 No.29176

>>29150
"Talk time over, back to business."

McKenzie's front to arms turn off the communicator of the prisoner again, holding him in a hug as he starts to look around again.

 No.29177

>>29171
"Aww, maybe next time then!" She shouts excitedly. "But, your suit, can I touch it? You look so much more different than him." Behind her, a larger Avian is looking on at both of you with attention.

>>29172
"Well, I'm glad you were there. I don't like it when they pick me up." She says, holding her neck. "At least you stopped them from stealing anymore. Security told us they have a lot of warrants out for them."

 No.29178

>>29174
"Oh, it already sounds so lively. We grew up in the shelters. Sela, for all its troubles, was a step way up for us." Zupa says with a melancholy tone.

"It's the first place we didn't have to worry about the rain." Pazu adds.

"Oh, it's bad where you are too?" Petry adds. "We had to have facemasks if we went outside at all."

 No.29179

>>29177
"That's fine, but I have to get back to my job, so make it quick!"

 No.29180

>>29176
"Well, looks like the cavalry is finally here." He says before his communicator goes silent.

Looking around the floating rubble, you see shadows jumping around everywhere. Some from the movement of the rocks, others from a possible accomplice to your hostage.

Three rounds pass right in front of you! To your left, taking cover behind a small asteroid, you can see the glare coming off someone's rifle!

 No.29181

>>29175
"Is it? One of the concepts of you Un-Linked races that we still do not understand is what you call 'Health-care insurance.' From what we understand, you need it to afford such fixing, but must pay them constantly, and they will then attempt to not help pay? It is a very complex and silly system."
>>29177
"We are happy to have been of assistance! For the record, they could not have harmed you; we were prepared and waiting to Fold you to safety if they tried."

 No.29182

>>29179
"Hm!" She nods, balancing you one hand as she touches your thigh, pressing in just a little. "You're smooth. My finger doesn't get caught in anything." She runs it up your body, touching your sides and breasts. "Soft."

 No.29183

"Get your bags ready folks, we are going to dock in a minute." The pilot announces. Bostaur and Ijapa begin checking their bags.

>>29181
"Thanks. Really. I was so scared then, I've been picked up before, but not like that." She breathes in deep, but manages to putt out a smile. "To be honest, it still worried me, since then."

 No.29184

>>29181
"That's a bit of an exaggeration, but bureaucracy is a strong part of the healthcare process. But, with how medical technology is, just about anything short of late-stage terminal diseases and death can be taken care of for a, well, comparatively modest fee. They're not gonna bankrupt you for losing an arm anymore, unless you want a fancy new one with a gun in it or something."

 No.29185

>>29183
I suppose I'll start doing a few checks myself. I'm going to have to help unload all this shit, after all.

 No.29186

>>29180
Encumbered, McKenzie attempts to drift behind his own asteroid. [1d10-1]

He then reloads, making sure he has all four shots for whoevers here.

"Hope you don't mind being my armor, friend."

Roll #1 8 - 1 = 7

 No.29187

>>29182
"The suit is skin-tight to support and hold everything in place. It's more jiggly otherwise, the suit is supposed to stop rubbing and chafing." Giggle, adding in response to her probing finger, "Feel my warm face? That's what the rest feels like."

 No.29188

>>29185
Your machine is fine now, even the improvised repairs won't seem out of place on the Ankylosaur or Sela.

>>29186
Even with his communicator off, it feels like your armor heard you, becoming stiff. It makes it easier for your enemy to shoot you, but also makes him easier to maneuver in Zero-G.

'3d6'

Roll #1 3, 6, 5 = 14

 No.29189

>>29188
Well, hopefully I'm not going back to Sela any time soon. I'm going to get teased enough by my subordinates for picking up a woman and a kid instead of a souvenir.

 No.29190

>>29186
The shooter is exceedingly accurate, but your natural armor, and your cover, means those direct hits, barely phase your innate shields.

SP/HP 17/25

The shells float near you, your hostage starting to become more lively as he sees the bounced off bullets.

 No.29191

>>29187
"Can I?" She pouts up a finger close to you, unsure about touching you.

>>29189
"I can show them to their rooms if they don't call us in to a security meeting. Just in case, I'll send you their information." Ijapa says, closing up his Security issued bag. "They won't be too far from you, it seems."

 No.29192

>>29191
Rub my cheek against her hesitant finger.

 No.29193

>>29191
"Probably because I'm the one who signed them on. And I'd appreciate that, thanks. I'm probably going to get pulled back into work the second we dock. Never a dull moment, you know."

 No.29194

>>29190
One of the hand graspers pat his armor on the head to comfort him, his back cannon aiming towards the location of the shots that were fired. It's humming is lost to the vacuum of space, the weapon fires again.

>Aim for +1

[1d10+1] Crits on 7, Critfail on 2
(if crit, Confidence gives +1 to the next roll)
[1d10+1] Crits on 7, Critfail on 2

Roll #1 8 + 1 = 9 / Roll #2 8 + 1 = 9

 No.29195

>>29184
"It is kind of amusing, how you speak of it as if it was once some great achievement to fix a severed limb or modify your body. For Voldra, adapting a drone to best suite it's purpose is simply the way it is done, and fixing injuries, while time-consuming, is a given."
>>29183
"We were worried afterwards when you seemed fine until it became apparent you were panicking, but not showing it. Are you feeling better from that?"

 No.29196

>>29192
She freezes in place, letting your warmth press through. Her finger feels soft and warm, the feathers in development soft against your face.

>>29193
"Same here. I'm expecting to have to go through a full debrief of everything that happened. You have some of that caffeine in there with you, because you're going to need it."

 No.29197

>>29195
"What can I say? Humans just love making things difficult for themselves, sometimes."
>>29196
"I haven't had a good cup of coffee in months. Hopefully, whatever sludge is leftover in the mechbay is fresh enough that it'll tide me over."

 No.29198

>>29194
Your ComLink picks up an energy spike as a shield shorts out. Plus, you can see smoke among the sand and debris from the asteroid, unable to withstand your attacks.

No return fire comes, the area goes quiet again.

 No.29199

>>29196
"Thanks for being gentle! I gotta get back to my boss now."

 No.29200

>>29195
"I was, it hurt to breathe now that I look back on it, my mind was racing." She looks down, but then breathes and comes back to normal. "But the flute just took all my attention. I could feel wrong, but it didn't matter… So I wanted to say thank you again for getting me out of that trouble too!"

>>29197
"It's not like we can count on the sun going down for us either. Unless the power plant is acting up again." Ijapa says, stopping to look up some information on his ComLink. "And it did, expect Zero-G like conditions in a moment."

 No.29201

>>29200
Groan under my breath.
At least I'm strapped in here fairly well.

 No.29202

>>29198
McKenzie turns on the communicator of the prisoner, letting go of him again,

"You should tell them to back off. Unless you think you're worth whatever property damage I'm gonna do, I mean. You'll probably be expected to pay for it though."

He continues to watch the smoking asteroid for movement.

 No.29203

>>29199
The gravitic generator aboard the Shuttle starts powering down, making both of you much ligher. "Yeah." She smiles as much as her beak lets her, pulling her hand back under you and raising you back up to your mech.

>>29201
You see your floating crew waiting for you, Civet being easier to spot than the others, trying to see where you are in the shuttle.

"Yup, they're there. Looks like it's going to be up to you to take them to their room." Ijapa says, looking at a few Security officials waiting near Civet.

 No.29204

>>29203
Punch the comm button, "Can you autopilot back to the mech bay? I've wasted time enough already, I should get back to debrief."

 No.29205

>>29197
"It is not only humans; most Un-Linked races suffer from such snarls of failed communication and systematic complexity in what ought to be simple matters."
We reach over and pat the mech on the back.
"We understand that you simply cannot help it, and are making the best of what you have."
>>29200
"To be fair, we were technically responsible for that trouble; the flute is Voldra, after all, even if it is in a different form."
Shuffle a bit as we look at her.
"Intentional or not, we are sorry for causing such distress by allowing the flute to be used without understanding it."

 No.29206

>>29202
"I, I don't know if there's anything left of him for me to warn." He scans around, looking for his associate. "I'm just glad you only shot my ride now."

He begins sending out a generic warning to a Stellis, wherever he might be. "Give it up, we're outgunned here." He repeats over the communicator.

Three more shots ring out! '3d6'

Roll #1 4, 6, 3 = 13

 No.29207

>>29203
"Right."
To Petry and Cana:
"Looks like I'm going to be bringing you two to your room. It's not too far from mine, apparently."
>>29205
"Well, we probably wouldn't do well 'linked'. Some people are just kinda… off. wouldn't want that impacting those rational hive decisions, right?"

 No.29208

>>29204
"Oh hey, I was waiting for you!" Calta shouts back at you through the Commspeakers. "I was trying to connect to your mech, but anyways, glad to have you back. Eva was worried about you." There is some tiny yelling going on near her. "I can take over your machine and park it, Doctor Zorani is on her way to pick you up."

>>29202
Again, your cover and your armor rob the projectiles of any real impact, bouncing off like last time.

SP/HP 15/25

 No.29209

>>29208
"Well I gave them the chance, that's all that matters. Don't think I could keep track of two of you anyways."

two more shots fire the way of his doomed attacker

>Aim for +1

[1d10+2] (previous Confidence) Crits on 7, Critfail on 2
(if crit, Confidence gives +1 to the next roll)
[1d10+1] Crits on 7, Critfail on 2

Roll #1 1 + 2 = 3 / Roll #2 6 + 1 = 7

 No.29210

>>29207
"Oh, there are eccentrics in the hive too. It is important to have multiple perspectives and multiple roles, after all! Besides, just because they are allowed to propose bad ideas does not obligate us to pursue those ideas."
Look down at the ground and shuffle our feet.
"Besides, being unerring rational has a habit of… backfiring. One of the universal constants we have found is that rationality is relative. Lacking the right perspective can make for… embarrassing mistakes."

 No.29211

>>29208
Backflip out of the cockpit in slow motion! It's 0G anyway.

Guess nothing left to do but float around until Doc shows up.

 No.29212

>>29210
"That sounds like it'd be a fun story. But, it'll have to wait for another time. Work calls."

 No.29213

>>29209
You take aim and try to fire, but your weapon locks up as your enemy takes the chance to dart around to another asteroid! Reload and stop him!

>>29210
You can see Kamori waving at you from a hovercart, Malvi next to her, occasionally stealing a glance from looking at her DataPad.

"Uhm, think you can help us move these bags?" The Twins ask in unison.

>>29211
Doctor Zorani's labcoat always stands out when she's in the Hangar, making it easy to see her arriving. Someone is with her, but you can't make out who.

>>29212
Civet's normally bright scales can be seen covered in more dust than usual. Even the crew seems a bit dustier than what you'd consider the norm, even for this ship.


The doors of the Shuttle open up, you are free to Zero-G your way out.

[PAUSE]

 No.29214

>>29213
Push off the ground and float over! Not much I can do to stop midair but I'm sure whoever's with her is fine.

 No.29215

>>28772
"There's some weird signals popping up that I need the two of you to investigate. I'll split it up to make the work easier, but keep your radio on in case there is a call for help, alright?"

Your Heads Up Display pops out some new coordinates. Roll Movement.

 No.29216

>>29213
McKenzie's back mounted turret unjams itself, giving the Voldra time to steady himself for the next run as he watches the scrapper hop behind another asteroid.

"He's a shy one."

>Reload, Steady

 No.29217

>>29214
"You didn't break the mech or yourself while you were down there?" Eva sarcastically shouts at you as you float towards Doctor Zorani. Eva rides on the Doc's shoulders, looking over the state of your clothing and the other passengers boarding off the shuttle as the Doc reaches out her hands to catch you.

 No.29218

>>29217
Not anything I can do but land in the hands, I'm not wearing a jetpack.

"No, only property damage was the sciencey stuff. That was a really strange building. I'm still not entirely sure what was going on there."

 No.29219

>>29215
Back in my mech, I tap the Com-link earphone "Roger that boss. By the way, any info on that weird beetle thing? It just came out of nowhere"
'1d6+2'

Roll #1 5 + 2 = 7

 No.29220

>>29216
The Asteroid he hides behind slowly drifts , for once there is no place near it to try and float to. The moment goes quiet, your hostage not moving or saying anything, the hunk of space rock just floating by.

Then your ComLink picks up a sudden influx of radio chatter.

 No.29221

>>29213
Wave cheerily back to Kamori.
"Certainly!" We reply to the twins. "Where in the hangar would you like them deposited?"

 No.29222

>>29218
"But they told! Nevermind…" Eva says after putting her hand over her head and not wanting to shout so close to the Doc's ear. The Doctor's arm recoil a bit as she grabs you, since even she forgets that Humans are heavier than they look. She lands back on the Hangar floor, holding you in her fingers.

"At least you weren't hurt. I was worried when they said there was trouble down on Sela. But you're sure nothing feels wrong or out place with you?" She asks.

>>29219
"Orders from above. We've been expecting a few new additions from this area, apparently your Human embassy was the one who pushed him up to us." Bok disappears off the radio for a moment, shuffling some papers around and talking to another operator. "Be careful, our sensors seem to be going in and out, so I can't tell what I'm sending you into. Keep your eyes open."

"Hmm. On a related subject, I think I have an idea. How'd you like a roommate?"

 No.29223

>>29221
"Let's just get them out of the shuttle, it needs to refuel and head back for more stuff it looks like." Pazu says, looking at the eager pilot.

The Hovercart approaches, Kamori looking like she'd fall out of the Hovercart, but the lack of Gravity at the moment means it isn't too dangerous right now. "Welcome Home, how was your trip?" Kamori shouts to you, Malvi now putting her attention at you and the new inhabitants.

 No.29224

>>29222
"My eyes are always open Don't worry"
I let out an audible groan "Cool, my favorite subject, I'm listening" I reply sarcastically as I push onwards through space, occasionally sharply turning behind and to the sides for anything sneaking up

 No.29225

>>29222
"No, everything went pretty smoothly. I mean, maybe my mech is a little scorched but I'm fine, I didn't have any of the usual problems."

 No.29226

>>29223
"Exciting!" We shout back. "We took many pictures, had a shootout with two criminals in the fold-crystal storage area, and found weapons created from corpses!"
If the area does not matter, we can aim for an empty corner and deposit the luggage there.
'2d6+2' Teleport on the pile of luggage

Roll #1 3, 5 + 2 = 10

 No.29227

>>29220
The Voldra holds fire, waiting for the baddie to fire again before returning fire, instead listening to comms, tuning into the chatter.

[1d10] Tech

Roll #1 2 = 2

 No.29228

>>29224
"You're approaching one of those anomalous areas. We had some ships pass by, so who knows what's causing the problem." Bok says, you can hear him click on his keyboard to try and find out more. "Well, how about I put you next to the new guy. Show him how everything is here."

There's another broken mining mech, but this one is still smoldering. Whoever shot it might still be near.

>>29225
"Good, I guess I was worried for nothing then." She puts her fingers closer to you, pressing on you from all sides. "Let's head to the room, I need to do a full examination after every planetary landing to see if anything changes."

"I'll take care of the machine and catch up. I have the codes to pull out the black box for Calta." She jumps off, floating towards your machine. "Oh, did you bring what she asked you for? Otherwise, she'll put one on for you and you might not like it." She says as she floats away.

 No.29229

>>29228
Oblivious, "Oh yeah, I got pictures!"

Pat Doc Zorani's giant finger with one of my tiny hands, "Alright, I'm ready!"

 No.29230

>>29226
"Woah."
"Woah!"
Pazu and Zapu says as you get all the luggage that took them so much time to get inside out so quickly. The Twins float out along the Hovercart. Kamori encourages them to hold on, and it flies its way towards you.

"It's good that you did take a lot of pictures. Duana's been pacing around like crazy when you weren't around. If she wasn't floating with the rest of us, she'd put a hole in the ship.

Malvi and the Twins take some time looking each other over, then Malvi sticks her small hand out, which Pazu takes and shakes back. "So these are the new folks you brought along?" Kamori asks.

>>29227
"GARBNeedNOIHelSTATICUnder…" The signal cuts off, the person sending out the signal trying to keep the asteroid between you and him.

 No.29231

>>29230
>>29213
Right, well, I assume I'm either unloading things, filing reports, or directing Cana and her aunt/mother to their room?

 No.29232

>>29228
"New guy?" I ask absent-mindely, rifle drawn and ready to fire

 No.29233

>>29229
She returns the gesture, rubbing your head with her fingers. "The other girls will be happy to see them. They really wanted to go to the planet, but I think Calta found a way to distract them." She floats back towards your room, passing lots of other people coming and going with all the new supplies from Sela.

She puts you on the examination table once you get inside, the room empty except for the two of you. "Go ahead and remove your suit and wait on the examination bed. We'll start after I get my gloves on and get the computers started."

 No.29234

>>29230
"Hmph, well then, I suppose I can't talk to him, so I'll get a better look at him instead."

McKenzie shoots the asteroid, intent on giving the assailant nowhere to hide.

>Steady gives +1

[1d10+1] Crits on 7, Critfail on 2
(if crit, Confidence gives +1 to the next roll)
[1d10+1] Crits on 7, Critfail on 2

Roll #1 1 + 1 = 2 / Roll #2 3 + 1 = 4

 No.29235

>>29231
Your crew comes up to your damaged mech, exhaustion visible on all of their faces. Plus, lots of dust and grease.

"How did you get it so messed up?" Civet finally asks, the other two have an expression relaying the same question. "And how long will it take to fix…"

>>29232
"The one you just met? Rachel, keep your head in the game. At this rate, you really will wind up getting stepped on, ya know?"

You see some lights flashing over an asteroid, near another damaged mecha. Someone is over there, but space hides all sounds.

>>29234
Your weapon charges, but then locks up and vents all its energy. You'll have to reload, and quickly, because your assailant is becoming more hectic in his calls, he's sending them out again, repeating what he said earlier.

 No.29236

>>29230
"Luggage unloaded!" We announce cheerily.

"It is good to hear that she did not cause any damage. She will be disappointed she did not get to participate in the fight, but hopefully the pictures will suffice."

"And yes, this is Friend-Pazu and Friend-Zapu! Friend-Pazu, Friend-Zapu, these are friend-Malvi and friends-Kamori. Pazu and Zapu are secretaries with a lot of experience and knowledge with the legalese of the galaxy; We are sure friend-Malvi will be very interested in that!"

 No.29237

>>29235
"The one that came over here is getting antsy, think he's getting more of them. How much longer am I solitary?"
Mckenzie messages the ship, seeing as he too has comms. He reloads and steadies his next shot.

 No.29238

>>29235
"Well, the cockpit was because it got knocked over and trampled by a crowd. The arms are just a result of fatigue because I had to load most of the ship parts myself. And the luggage was deceptively heavy."
I'll park it, if it's not needed currently.
"But, it's low priority until we get everything else fixed first. So we're not going to worry about it until we get this tub in better shape."

 No.29239

>>29233
Pull off my jumpsuit and lay down, arms and legs wide in the middle of the massive pillow. This is probably routine by now, so I'll just let her handle me as she needs.

 No.29240

>>29236
"We could use the help." Kamori says as Malvi begins talking with Zapu now. "We had to do a lot of electronic paperwork just to get access their data systems here." She seems a bit frustrated with all the work they had to put in. "Anyways, let's show them to their rooms, Malvi's got that data with her, then we can meet up with Duana."

Even with the lowered gravity, Pazu still has some difficulty with the sheer mass of luggage.

>>29237
"I'm checking now and, grains." Bok says, clacking furiously on his keyboard. "Something is coming to you, something that can block our sensors. They're not the best, but you can't just stop them so easily either. I might suggest you take what you can and get out of there."

Your ComLink vibrates, having sensed a Scanner pass over you.

 No.29241

>>29235
"I got my head on the important game here, the field, trying to not get blasted by some loon hiding on an asteroid" I zoom towards the light, getting to a safe distance to attempt radio communication

 No.29242

>>29238
Even though you told them they didn't have to worry about fixing your machine, they still lack any energy. Both the Trainee and your married Underlings seem resigned to their fate of doing more work. All three of them just seem to float there, looking slightly more alive than dead fishes.

"Uhm, hello?" Petry asks floating up next to you as Cana tries to fly off, flapping her arms in an attempt to swim through the Zero-G, observing the married couple with the curiosity of the child she is.

"Are they O.K.?" She asks.

 No.29243

>>29240
"I am certain they will be most willing to help however they can. By all accounts, life down there was quite unpleasant."
Fly on over and grab several of the bags ourself in order to help out.

 No.29244

>>29239
She gets her gloves on and positions the sensors and cameras on you. You can hear her begin to speak in a more professional tone, citing the day, your name, and the reason for this check-up.

"We'll begin with a cursory examination and questionning." She puts her hand over most of your body, lightly pressing down, leaving on your head exposed. She presses individual digits, getting a feel for your body. "Patient Wan, did you use any Fold abilities while on the Planet Sela?"

 No.29245

>>29242
"Well, I did say that we were a little short-handed, right? Well, these three are the mechanics I'm in charge of. They've been working for the last couple days almost straight, so they're just coming to grips with yet another job being put on the pile."
I'll grab my away kit, and head out of the cockpit.
"But, you you know what…"
I'll float over to Civet and the others.
"Have you guys gone on break yet? I could use the help settling in our new linguist and her daughter, and if you happened to, oh, I don't know, 'got lost' for an hour on the way back to the hangar, I'd have to chalk it up to exhaustion. If you get my meaning."

 No.29246

>>29240
"The whole idea was that this guy has a tracking device. Not just gonna bring him- hold on."

Reminding himself that speakers have electromagnets within, he takes one of his foreign music devices and looks it over, seeing if he can dismantle it and make something to short out the tracking device his prisoner has.

[1d10] Tech

Roll #1 7 = 7

 No.29247

Giggle at first at the cold of her touch, but shift a little under her hand to get comfortable, fingers depressing my chest.

"Yeah, the explosion abilities I use. There was a fight."

 No.29248

>>29241
Roll Cover.

Floating above the asteroid, you spot a weird alien in a space suit, floating in front of a recharge station. He seems to be doing something to the electronics, since you seen an occasional spark but you can't make out if he's got a weapon.

"I'm trying to stay connected to your vids, but you keep cutting out. I'll leave it up to you on how to proceed." The alien is nearby, a blast on an open frequencxy will probably reach him, but it will expose your position.

 No.29249

>>29243
The Twins hold on to the Hovercart as they are flown towards their rooms. The Twins marvel at all the people floating around them. They pay close attention to any Human that ends up next to them.

"Curious, aren't you?" Kamori jokes as the Twins are unable to respond, looking around everywhere except at the two smiling Humans.

"Oh, do you have the items with you?" Malvi finally asks. " I can schedule some time with the examination rooms if you want us to look into them." She says as the Hovercart slows down.

 No.29250

>>29245
They can barely managed a collective thumbs up. The dust on them seems to have more energy in it right now. Even with Cana floating around them, observing everything about them, they can barely move.

"Thanks, I think it would be best if we got Cana settled down. I think she's about to pick them up and try to bring them along if we don't stop her now." Petry says, adjusting her bag. "I think I can carry most of our things. Is there anything you'll be needing me to bring along?"

 No.29251

>>29250
I'll think for a second.
"Nah, should be good with just yourselves and your luggage. Once we've got you settled in, we'll pester the bridge crew about your duties and Cana's schooling schedule. Maybe hit the mess hall and take lunch."
I'll cast a glance at the married couple.
"Honestly, I don't think they'd mind too much at this point, but I think I should be able to wrangle some sort of skiff to dump them on so they can get off their feet. She's free to ask, though."
And I'll suit action to word, and try to flag down any sort of transport for the hallways.

 No.29252

>>29246
They're crude, but the modified device you have with you should be able to help out for a moment.

"I'm trying to reach Rachel and pinging everything I can think of, but it's hard. DO what you can, but be safe. A prisoner is still a good catch." Bok responds over the radio.

>>29247
"Did it feel differently to the previous times you used your abilities?" She asks, keeping the pressure on you as she lets her hand start rolling down your body, leaving your breasts and now putting some pressure on your stomach and legs. "Was there anything unusual feeling about it?"

 No.29253

>>29252
"Ah, sorry, everyone keeps asking me that, I feel like I'm supposed to say something, but I was more worried about everyone in danger. I didn't notice anything different. We did test some Fold objects though, there was a teleporty one. And they said they thought I reacted really strong to it."

Suppress a giggle as she works down my gut.

 No.29254

>>29249
"The twins probably do not mean any offense by ignoring you."
Grin as a thought comes to mind, and tap the twins on their shoulders.
"Are you still worried about being treated differently for being short?"

"That would be very good, Friend-Malvi. We do wish for it to be done carefully; these are technically the remains of our kind and another, not to mention the potential dangers of their strange properties."

 No.29255

>>29251
There are a few unused Hovercarts you can call in. In such a low gravity, they should be able to handle the three of them, and another for you.

"If you don't mind me saying," Petry says as she looks around, "I was actually expecting something, well, smaller." She tries to supress a giggle. "When I saw you and they told me about the ship, I wasn't expecting it to be like this. It feels much more spacious than the ship we arrived in."

>>29253
"Well, that's a good thing, but we have to stay on topic for now." She continues to move her fingers down you body, the pressure now on your lower waist and thighs. "SO you didn't feel differently, but what about your ability. Was there any difference in it? Was it bigger, hotter, more controlled, or less so?"

 No.29256

>>29255
"Sorry," Remark sheepishly, shifting a little to stretch my legs in response to the flowing blood. Grip her thumb with body my hands to anchor myself as she works. "Like I said, I was really distracted with the hostages."

 No.29257

>>29248
I'm thinking a warning shot to his right will get his attention, but the important thing is if it will also get someone else's attention…
I'll quickly scan the area just to make sure this alien is alone

 No.29258

>>29248
'1d6' cover

Roll #1 4 = 4

 No.29259

>>29252
"I'll get moving. Can't promise a speedy delivery, though."

McKenzie starts moving away, content with his natural armor to protect him from any last potshots the scrappers fire as he leaves.

 No.29260

>>29255
"Well, the ship was originally designed for Resempians. We got it second-hand and replaced a lot of things with more human-sized amenities, like turning a few rooms into apartments and the like. Your room should be more than large enough for the two of you. Might even feel a little empty, since it was made for four people, but I get the feeling it won't take you long to get used to it."
I can take the couple with me on the one cart, since the rest of the hangar crew might need the others.

 No.29261

>>29254
The Twins groan as they try to hide a bit from the looks Kamori and Malvi give them, but they eventually come out from underneath the Hovercart.

"It'll be nice not to have to worry about being picked up." Pazu says.
"And now we can pick people up…" Zapu tries to sneak in.

Malvi and Kamori only stare for a moment, then begin to laugh.

"Welcome to the Ankylosaur." Malvi says.
"Be careful where you step and you'll have a good time." Kamori adds in. The Twins begin to smile.

"Here we go, I think you'll be happy about this. You two girls will be living right next to our own rooms." Malvi says, pointing towards their approaching rooms.

 No.29262

>>29256
"That's fine. I'll add in the details from the black box after this. Hold that position for a moment." With her free hand, she messes with one of the cameras observing you and moves around another of the sensors. "Okay, that should give me a clearer result. Breathe deep as I finish here."

Roll 1d10.

>>29258
>>29257
Looking around, you don't spot any motion or lights nearby, but your senseors are being messed with at the moment. You find a decent hole int he asteroid you can shoot from and even rest your weapon on to fire on the Alien.

He stops what he's doing and looks around.

"Hey*STATIC*sig*STATIC*." Something is messign with your signal now, you can't reach Bok!

The ALien resumes his work.

 No.29263

>>29262
Inhale! '1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

 No.29264

>>29259
Roll Movement.

Your hostage continues to cooperate since it'll be hard for you to miss if he decides too fight back, but his presence still makes it hard to get around.

"Something dangerous is near." Bok says over the radio. "I'm constantly changing our frequency here just to deal with the interference. I even hijacked a satellite for this. Can you see anything pursuing you?"

>>29260
While there's movement, this shuttle isn't loaded with too many deliveries for the ship itself, just more crew.

"Are there other areas like this on board?" Petry asks. "I can finally give Cana some flying lessons." She says as she scans the hangar, looking at the empty areas as the Hovercart pushes them towards their room.

Cana looks around excitedly, looking at every corner and room you pass, and focusing on any Human who happens to be floating by. You spot Petry doing the same. "Does everyone here have the same clothes?" Cana asks. "Is there a time where you wear your own clothes?"

>>29263
"All the scans seem to come up how I expected, well within tolerances, and…" She lifts up her hand and presses on your chest as you inhale, then presses with some minor force. You can feel your body push her finger up, countering the pressure she's putting on you. "Done. I'll put in the rest of the data after Eva brings me the black box." She begins running your stomach now that you're done.

"Okay, enough of that for now. Looks like Calta has her surprise ready for you. I don't know what she likes about it, but did you bring a swim suit?"

PAUSE

 No.29265

>>29264
"There should be a few recreation areas. Not sure how many low-G areas there are, specifically, but you should be able to find a few open areas on the observation deck or even here, if we're not too busy."
To Cana:
"Well, we're in uniform most of the time, but yes there are times you get to wear whatever you want. Usually on an off day or if you've got shore leave. Since you're still a student, you'll have a bit more freedom of wardrobe."
I'll point at a few floating people, of various sizes.
"If you look a little closer, you'll see some uniforms have different colors in certain patches. That helps tell which department a person is a part of. Mechanics get their own color, as do bridge crew, security, pilots, and so on. Learning which department has which color is probably going to show up in your lesson plan, if for nothing other than convenience's sake."

 No.29266

>>29265
"Oh, that reminds me, will Cana be sharing classroom with Humans? Will you have rooms big enough for it?" Petry asks as the Hovercart turns a corner, nearing their assigned room.

 No.29267

>>29266
"Well, considering you could fit an entire class of human children on a single desk sized for a species your size, I don't think room is going to be hard to come by. That said, I'm not actually sure how many children there are onboard, of any race. It might end up being more of a tutoring sort of thing, if there aren't at least twenty or so."

 No.29268

>>29264
[1d10-1]
"No ships besides the one I destroyed and the two scrappers. I'll keep a look out though!"

Roll #1 3 - 1 = 2

 No.29269

>>29264
"Swimsuit? No… Well, I'm sure it will work out."

 No.29270

>>29268
>>29267
"COnsidering how things were back in Sela, that would still be a step up from where we were. I won't have to worry where she runs off to," She points at Cana as their apartment nears, "and she seems eager to pay attention now." Cana waves at a pair of waving Humans, rocking the Hovercart for a moment.

Looks like they lucked out and got a room that was between two Human apartment complexes that you installed. Their apartment is just a large sized version of yours, featuring room for two beds and the basic ammenities.

"Woah, we get to live here?"

>>29268
Your ComLink begins to vibrate even more now, the temperature of space managing to lower itself as the search lights of a much larger, more capable ship approaches from behind!

It hasn't spotted you yet, the lights moving in numberous directions as it constantly tries to ping your location…

 No.29271

>>29269
Doctor Zorani smiles> "Eva said as much, so she left a few for you, but first…" The Doctor brings you onto her chest, hugging you as her arms go around you and take up almost all your body except for your head.

 No.29272

>>29270
"Got searchlights on me, gonna move behind an asteroid and have it pass me by. Worst case scenarios I'll try and disable their lights and sneak off."

[1d10-1]

Roll #1 4 - 1 = 3

 No.29274

>>29270
I'll nod.
"Yes, this is where you two will be staying. It's fairly basic, but I hope it's a good fit for you."

 No.29275

>>29261
"Ah, how convenient! Working together will be more efficient, and considering our work, we believe we will be working together fairly regularly!"

Speaking of which, we should probably introduce them to Duana too.

 No.29276

>>29271
Pat her breast reassuringly, "That worried? I'm fine, really. It's not the first time I had to fight."

 No.29277

>>29272
cover [1d10]

Roll #1 9 = 9

 No.29278

>>29272
>>29277
You're not able to get too much distance before the Ship begins catching up to you. One of the Asteroids has massive hole in it, making a good hiding place. From there you can observe that it too is trying to keep an asteroid between it and the planet.

"They better not crash that ship. I was going to keep it when we were done here…" Your Hostage says over his ComLink.

"We've got a ship on the way. I'm broadcasting on all the frequencies I can find to scare them off, just try not to be seen!" Bok shouts.

The ship begins to float closer. '1d10'

>>29274
"It's a real room! Not like the one we had to make!" Cana shouts, floating off towards the bed and TV, messing with the straps that keep one attached in case the gravity goes out. "This is so cool!"

"Don't make a mess of it, we just got it." Petry asks, floating inside. "I think we can finish setting up our stuff inside, unless you want to try and help?"

Roll #1 5 = 5

 No.29279

>>29278
"As much fun as that would be, I'm afraid I've got reports to file and work to catch up on."
I'll give an apologetic shrug.
"Once again, welcome aboard the Ankylosaur. You should be able to access general floorplans from your PDAs within an hour or two, tops, but if you need a guide anywhere, just flag down anyone who looks like they have their hands free."

 No.29280

>>29275
"She's been waiting in the communications room, since she drew the short straw. I'll call her over, she wouldn't want to miss this." Kamori says, clicking on her ComLink.

The Hovercart slows down, stopping in front of a Large room right next to a Human apartment complex. Malvi shows the Twins how to access their rooms with their new codes, and the doors open to a brand new room. Everything is still clean and new, but there are a few signs of improvised wiring. They approach the bed, which still looks massive compared to them as Kamori and Malvi float onto it.

"It's so big…" Pazu says.
"Is your room like this too?" Zapu asks.

>>29276
"Not just that. You were fighting for other people. It's an admirable quality." She gives one last squeeze before letting you go as Eva floats into the room.

"I'm not interrupting, am I?" Eva sarcastically says, hiding by the door. "Wan, hurry up and get dressed, Calta wants to show you what she's been working on instead of doing actual work."

 No.29281

>>29280
"I didn't bring a swimsuit, but I'm sure Calta has something for me."

Let's float off in that direction, no need to tarry.

 No.29282

>>29280
"Similar, yes, though it currently has the equipment to allow for dictation of broadcasted messages, and our furniture is a bit more unorthodox, due to this drone's differing physical build. Will all of your luggage be able to fit inside this room?"

 No.29283

>>29278
>>29277
The ship is about two asteroids away and begins shooting one, the dust and debris jamming your communications.

"*STATIC*Support*NOISE*your*STATIC*"

The ship begins to move in your direction, hitting the rocks as it moves.

>>29279
Cana continues to jump on the bed, or at least try to now that gravity isn't working for the ship. Petry gives you a smile and bows, then heading off to try and corral the excited child.

A message from Cotentin appears on your ComLink.
>"Lots of things to work on Boxx. Hope you're ready."

 No.29284

>>29283
I'll leave them to it. I'll respond to the message on my way back to the hangar.
You know me. Not happy unless I'm elbow-deep in the guts of something horribly dangerous and broken.

 No.29285

>>29278
"You're lucky you didn't end up like your schooner."
>>29283
Noticing the asteroid get blasted, McKenzie holds his ground, waiting to flee directly before his asteroid gets shot to camouflage himself as debris.

"This might be a bumpy ride, fasten your seat beetle."

 No.29286

>>29281
"She did." Eva stops you mid-Zero-G-flight. "Which is why I'm going to have you pick it out now and get ready for it. She's got your measurements, and everyone else's, and she left a few for you to bring." She sends you the directions of the surprise plus a few pictures. "Pick one now so that you don't keep her waiting."

The pictures show a few, simple looking swimsuits. A blue two piece, a green and red one piece, and a more athletic looking white suit.

 No.29287

>>29282
The large bag floats outside, a few Humans floating around it and a Reptilian ALien trying to squeeze through. The Twins look at each other.

"We'll make it work."
"We'll make it work."

The two Humans just smile, before the silence is punctured by a familiar shout.

"Shelley, you're back!" Duana jumps straight towards you, knocking you backwards in this zero-gravity.

>>29284
>"They had to make a few 'adjustments' to the ship since you were gone. And we saw you didn't go too easy on your machine (❁°▵°). Plus, we got conscripted to try and get the gravity plating back on. As you can tell, it didn't work too well."

 No.29288

>>29287
the mech can wait, and that was mostly due to the fact I had to load most things by myself. It's just stress and metal fatigue. the cockpit is my bad, though.
I'll sigh a bit.
that said, it should last long enough to fix the gravity plates. At least, as long as they're off. The arms might not support things too well once the gravity is back on.

 No.29289

>>29285
The Ship blasts the next asteroid in your direction, sending a few rockets its way.

"Hey, cut me a break, it's not like I can do much as I am thanks to you." He says with a tinge of venom in his voice, occasionally cutting out between the blasts.

The attacks stop, the ship moving towards you…

>>29288
>"Probably for the best. Civet doesn't do too well inside the new place, this might be for the best. Verata is taking stock of the damage, we'll have the parts mostly ready when you arrive."

 No.29290

>>29287
"Indeeeeeeeeeee…" Unfortunately, getting knocked backwards sort of cuts off our response, instead setting us slowly spinning head over feet.
"Indeed we are," we finish, once getting our spin under control. "And we took many pictures, just as you requested."

 No.29291

>>29289
New place? They didn't move her out of her room while I was gone, did they?
Should be arriving at the hangar any time now. I'll probably make sure that the arm servos are at least in working order before I risk them failing while I work on the grav plates.

 No.29292

>>29289
McKenzie readies himself to escape with the shelling.
[1d10-1] dunno if rolling this turn or next

Roll #1 10 - 1 = 9

 No.29293

>>29290
"Yay! I'm so glad you're back, it was so quiet without you. We just got all the messages filed and that was it. It was so dull, but now you're back!" Duana shouts, hugging you between her shouts.

"If the gravity hadn't failed, she'd have put a hole in the floor with all her pacing." Malvi says.

>>29291
The Hangar is still busy, but your crew has put your Mech into the maintenance area. It's surrounded by parts, plus Verata has her DataPad ready to bring in more. Cotentin is cleaning his hands while Civet has a bag with lots of ice cubes around her neck and gills.

"Ready to get back to work?"Verata says as she approaches you.

 No.29294

>>29293
"Couldn't keep me away with a stick. What happened to Civet, though? She alright?"
I'll pause a moment before diving into work.
"You alright, Civet?"

 No.29295

>>29292
The Ship positions itself and begins firing, pulverizing the rock you were hiding behind!

A new ship approaches you! Try to get its attention!

 No.29296

>>29293
"The gravity failed? It seems things were not entirely uneventful up here either?"
"Pazu, Zapu, this energetic ball of destruction is Friend-Duana. Friend-Duana, this is Friend-Zapu and Friend-Pazu."

 No.29297

>>29295
What a disaster!

 No.29298

>>29295
McKenzie place himself between the two ships incase one starts fighting, then fires a plasma shot upwards from his location, not aiming at anything.

[1d10+2] not aiming at anything, just making sure i don't jam

Roll #1 1 + 2 = 3

 No.29299

>>29294
"There was a hot water leak we had to contain." You can see her gills be red and flared up like never before. "Cotentin said it was fine, how do Humans handle it?" She asks, sneezing as she locks your machine in place.

"And it still needs work." Verata adds. "Another trouble to deal with." She shrugs after looking at you.

>>29296
"But it was fun for a bit, but not as fun as it'll be with you here now." She shouts, before turning to the Twins. "Wow, double… It's nice to meet you!" The Twins approach her, carefully looking her over.

"Hey, are you related to Wan?" Zapu says. "You've got a similar air about you."
"Are all the Humans here related?" Pazu asks you.

 No.29300

>>29299
I'll shrug.
"With a lot of swearing, usually."
I'll sheepishly hook myself into my seat at Verata's second comment.
"Anyway, what say we get those gravity panels back into position, then?"
Run a quick diagnostic of the suit. See what they managed to tune up in the time between boarding and showing Petry and Cana their room.

 No.29301

>>29297
"What is that ship doing, attacking my asteroids!?" Your charge shouts, getting his chubby up to the window of the ship and yelling at the people shooting rockets at the asteroids.

"Forget that!" The radio blares, one of the other Security members on the other side of it, "Get those two and get out of there! We need them both alive!"

>>29298
Your weapons charges but fails to fire! The energy coming off of it sparking in the black void, alerting the enemy ship to your location and it begins turning towards you!

 No.29302

>>29299
"That is an interesting question," we concede, turning to Malvi. "Friend-Malvi, are you related to the other humans aboard this ship?"
"By the way, how do we intend to view the pictures we took while on the planet? That seems like something that would be well-enjoyed until the others arrive from their firefight."

 No.29303

>>29301
>>29298
"Understood."
get on comms with the friendly. "Time to fall back. To the Ankyl. Over. "
'1d10' turn this ship around and plot a course back to safety.

Roll #1 2 = 2

 No.29304

>>29301
The Voldra lets out a hiss and a few clicks of his mandibles, going untranslated from his device. He drifts rotating in the same direction the ship is, trying to stall as long as possible.
[1d10-1]

Roll #1 6 - 1 = 5

 No.29305

>>29302
"I grew up with Wan and Eva and the other girls, but I don't think we're related…" She thinks while the Twins and even the other Humans watch her process her thoughts.

"The Fold Girls are an interesting group, but they're a little too different from one another to be related, but they are from the same area of Earth." Malvi says. "I actually send a resume to them, but the Ankylosaur called first.

"We can set up a projector in the warehouses, might be a good way to spend some time together. Maybe some popcorn and soda. What do you think Shelley?" Kamori asks.

>>29303
"Not without those two out there!" The radio shouts, with your radar system now pinging a smaller pair of Aliens floating towards you. However, the warning systems begin flashing red, the enemy ship has a lock on you!

"And not without stopping them from ruining my rocks!" Your porculent passenger shouts.

>>29304
You've closed half the distance towards the new ship that arrived, but now the enemy ship has re-oriented itself away from you and towards your escape vehicle. Don't let it blow up your ride out of here!

 No.29306

>>29305
"Hussssh." I hiss at them both.
Time to do some space fighting..
'1d10' dodge the incoming attack, while barreling toward the allies to try to pick them up.

Roll #1 7 = 7

 No.29307

>>29305
>unjammed last turn
To distract them from the ship being blown up, McKenzie maneuvers to put his alien shield in front of the ship and fire twice at the looming enemies.

>Steady

[1d10+3] Crits on 7, Critfail on 2
(if crit, Confidence gives +1 to the next roll)
[1d10+3] Crits on 7, Critfail on 2

"Don't shoot my way out of here, jerks!"

Roll #1 6 + 3 = 9 / Roll #2 5 + 3 = 8

 No.29308

>>29305
Tilt our head at Malvi's apparent slip-up.
"Do you not work with the Ankylosaur, Friend-Malvi? Why would you have sent them resumes separately from the ones employing you?"
Nod along to Kamori's suggestion.
"A fine idea, Friend-Kamori. Snacks to go along with the viewing are a great idea! Hopefully the pictures will have turned out all right."

 No.29309

>>29306
Neither ship is meant for combat, so this vessels turn isn't countered by the enemy ship's adjustments. A pair of rockets float off into space, narrowly missing your ship!

Fortunately,

>>29307
You manage to hit the enemy ships' rocket pods, forcing it to slam into an asteroid due to the force of the explosion.

It isn't out for the count just yet, as it moves behind the huge space rocks, but not running away just yet. The new ship is almost on top of you…

>>29308
"In fact, I waited a while after the first call for this project showed up on my answering machine." Malvi says. "I was sending out a bunch of resumes at the time since I was still doing some University research, and my coworkers actually tried to get me to look elsewhere. Good thing I did choose to sign up, or I might have never met you all."

"Let's get the Twins set up first then, we can make plans while we get everything in place for them, because honestly," She looks at their piles of baggage, "they might never finish if we don't help."

[PAUSE]


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