A chuck of ice large enough to render a man unconscious struck the ground near Reuben's feet with brutal force. He dove for the cover of his cave with mere centimeters to spare. The winter on Gittern had settled in full force and what a force it was to behold. Reuben had never seen anything quite like it before.
The entire planet was being decimated by the violence of its season. Only a few a few of the larger, sturdier mushrooms were managing to survive the onslaught of ice and electric storms. It made even the coldest winters on Reuben's homeworld, Tabor, pale in comparison.
A chunk of ice roughly half Reuben's size hit the ground outside the cave causing a few deadly shards to explode off of it in every direction. Reuben moved deeper into his temporary home to avoid being struck by the shrapnel. At least his choice of shelter was a good one. The cave was at the base of a large hill and it seemed to be holding its own.
Reuben shivered and he recalled his briefing. The days on Gittern lasted about eight standard hours and each season lasted for three of Gittern's days. If he was going to survive this he was going to have to become acquainted with these seasons fast.
Another huge chunk of ice sailed by the cave's entrance.
When he had been dropped off by the shuttle the weather, though not welcoming, had been more or less temperate. If this was a Gittern winter Reuben was not fool enough to think that the other seasons would be any better. But it made sense that there had to be lulls long enough for the native fungus to grow.
Winter was going to last another day. It was a risk but as soon as he saw the storms let up a bit, Reuben was going to have to head out and see if he could find a source of food before the next season settled in.
Sunday, June 16, 2013
Sunday, June 2, 2013
Viala Fighter (Ship)
Creators: Strozzi on the planet Kortholt
Speed: 5
Armor: 5
Maneuverability: 6
Description: As with their weapons, the strozzi value versatility when it comes to combat. The superior warrior wins the fight, the weapons she uses are merely tools. Compared to the others of its class, the Viala is neither the weakest nor the strongest ship. Originally designed for planetary combat, it was adapted for space flight a mere 100 years ago. It's maneuverability was increased slightly with later models.
The only notable feature about this fighter is the reinforced armor in the front. Essentially, it has the ability to ram its targets provided the pilot is experienced enough. Through trial and error, it has been found that this feature is best used when not in outer space.
Speed: 5
Armor: 5
Maneuverability: 6
Description: As with their weapons, the strozzi value versatility when it comes to combat. The superior warrior wins the fight, the weapons she uses are merely tools. Compared to the others of its class, the Viala is neither the weakest nor the strongest ship. Originally designed for planetary combat, it was adapted for space flight a mere 100 years ago. It's maneuverability was increased slightly with later models.
The only notable feature about this fighter is the reinforced armor in the front. Essentially, it has the ability to ram its targets provided the pilot is experienced enough. Through trial and error, it has been found that this feature is best used when not in outer space.
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Pay Up (Adventure) - Calen Natari Saga 18
Councilor Chum made it to the island in record time. Calen grunted in approval. She must have impressed him because the councilor was a busy man.
"I see my source was correct about you, Ms. Natari. I assume your urgent message means you've been successful."
"I've completed your task. You'll find the body of a spy behind that rock over there. I hope you're not squeamish. Next to the body you'll find a transmission device. I've checked the internal records and they date back several years, all sent from this planet to various Imperium controlled planets. You'll find a list of other potential spies here," she handed him the data pad she had obtained from the resistance.
"Good work," the councilor said as he scrolled through the list of names. "You realize that you have potentially just changed the tides of history, Ms. Natari."
Calen shrugged. "I care little for your political squabbles. Make no mistake: I'd take the same type of assignment for the Imperium."
Chum studied her for a moment with his expressionless eyes. "Perhaps. You may also end up changing your mind about the Imperium. They are not a forgiving sort when mistakes are made."
Calen put her hands on her hips. "I don't make mistakes very often," she said. It was not a boast.
"No. I suppose not. Well, either way, I am grateful for your services. You've become a wealthy woman today, Ms. Natari. I'll put the word out in the right ear as well. You'll find job requests a bit easier to come by in the future."
"I see my source was correct about you, Ms. Natari. I assume your urgent message means you've been successful."
"I've completed your task. You'll find the body of a spy behind that rock over there. I hope you're not squeamish. Next to the body you'll find a transmission device. I've checked the internal records and they date back several years, all sent from this planet to various Imperium controlled planets. You'll find a list of other potential spies here," she handed him the data pad she had obtained from the resistance.
"Good work," the councilor said as he scrolled through the list of names. "You realize that you have potentially just changed the tides of history, Ms. Natari."
Calen shrugged. "I care little for your political squabbles. Make no mistake: I'd take the same type of assignment for the Imperium."
Chum studied her for a moment with his expressionless eyes. "Perhaps. You may also end up changing your mind about the Imperium. They are not a forgiving sort when mistakes are made."
Calen put her hands on her hips. "I don't make mistakes very often," she said. It was not a boast.
"No. I suppose not. Well, either way, I am grateful for your services. You've become a wealthy woman today, Ms. Natari. I'll put the word out in the right ear as well. You'll find job requests a bit easier to come by in the future."
Sunday, May 5, 2013
The Island (Adventure) - Calen Natari Saga 17
The simplicity of the spy hideout made Calen want to laugh. Of course the informants were on an island, the last place a race with thriving underwater metropolises would think to look.
Calen had watched as her suspect headed toward one of the larger masses of land before veering off to give him a wide berth. She would have to land a fairly good distance away in order to avoid raising suspicion. Dipping the Oboi beneath the waves, she piloted the vessel away from the island for nearly ten standard minutes before looping back toward what her calculations said would be the side of the island opposite where the suspect landed.
She hoped her calculations were accurate.
Tracking prey on land was one thing. This whole tracking prey in a water environment seemed to be testing every skill that she had. The hunter in Calen thrilled at the challenge. This was exactly why she had left her home planet. She wanted to be a legend. To achieve what no other scarlati had ever dreamed of.
Calen pulled her vehicle to a halt a few meters from shore and flipped on the autopilot to keep the ship from drifting. A vessel sitting on land would be more easily spotted than one sitting in the water. Opening up the cockpit hatch she jumped into the water and swam the rest of the way to shore.
She immediately removed the helmet on her environment suit and took a deep breath of fresh air, flicking her tongue out to test for smells. Her prey was close. Closer than she would have liked but she couldn't smell any fear so he obviously still had no idea he was being followed.
Calen checked the charge on her cloaking device. Half charge. Enough for her to get close and make her kill.
The island was littered with small trees and rocks. Not much in the way of cover but Calen would make do. Sticking close to the larger boulders, Calen darted to and fro with the silent stealth of a highly experienced hunter. To move without being heard was something the elders taught all scarlati from a young age.
Calen had already learned the hard way that these zelenca were highly sensitive to their surroundings while underwater. She was unsure how many of those senses carried over to land but she was not about to make the mistake of underestimating her prey. A hunter unable to learn from her mistakes was as good as dead.
Climbing up a large cluster of rocks, she peeped over to get a feel for the lay of the land. Her target was about 400 feet away working at a small transmission station. Calen tasted the air again. Still no fear. Her target must have operated like this for years without incident, lulling him with a false sense of security. Perfect.
She activated her cloaking device and pulled her knife out of her boot. She made short work out of sloppy prey.
Calen had watched as her suspect headed toward one of the larger masses of land before veering off to give him a wide berth. She would have to land a fairly good distance away in order to avoid raising suspicion. Dipping the Oboi beneath the waves, she piloted the vessel away from the island for nearly ten standard minutes before looping back toward what her calculations said would be the side of the island opposite where the suspect landed.
She hoped her calculations were accurate.
Tracking prey on land was one thing. This whole tracking prey in a water environment seemed to be testing every skill that she had. The hunter in Calen thrilled at the challenge. This was exactly why she had left her home planet. She wanted to be a legend. To achieve what no other scarlati had ever dreamed of.
Calen pulled her vehicle to a halt a few meters from shore and flipped on the autopilot to keep the ship from drifting. A vessel sitting on land would be more easily spotted than one sitting in the water. Opening up the cockpit hatch she jumped into the water and swam the rest of the way to shore.
She immediately removed the helmet on her environment suit and took a deep breath of fresh air, flicking her tongue out to test for smells. Her prey was close. Closer than she would have liked but she couldn't smell any fear so he obviously still had no idea he was being followed.
Calen checked the charge on her cloaking device. Half charge. Enough for her to get close and make her kill.
The island was littered with small trees and rocks. Not much in the way of cover but Calen would make do. Sticking close to the larger boulders, Calen darted to and fro with the silent stealth of a highly experienced hunter. To move without being heard was something the elders taught all scarlati from a young age.
Calen had already learned the hard way that these zelenca were highly sensitive to their surroundings while underwater. She was unsure how many of those senses carried over to land but she was not about to make the mistake of underestimating her prey. A hunter unable to learn from her mistakes was as good as dead.
Climbing up a large cluster of rocks, she peeped over to get a feel for the lay of the land. Her target was about 400 feet away working at a small transmission station. Calen tasted the air again. Still no fear. Her target must have operated like this for years without incident, lulling him with a false sense of security. Perfect.
She activated her cloaking device and pulled her knife out of her boot. She made short work out of sloppy prey.
Sunday, April 21, 2013
vi Sniper Rifle (Weapon)
Creators: Strozzi on the planet Kortholt
Power: 5
Range: 8
Accuracy: 7
Description: A sniper rifle that has been designed for close combat situations. The strozzi are a proud race of warriors and hunters that need versatile weapons. The tip of the barrel has been sharpened to a spear-like point and the weapon itself has been thinned and elongated so it may be wielded like a staff.
Such modifications have come at a slight cost. The extra long barrel and unusual tip shape are not optimum for the rifle portion of this weapon. This sniper is powerful but perhaps not as accurate as others of its class.
Power: 5
Range: 8
Accuracy: 7
Description: A sniper rifle that has been designed for close combat situations. The strozzi are a proud race of warriors and hunters that need versatile weapons. The tip of the barrel has been sharpened to a spear-like point and the weapon itself has been thinned and elongated so it may be wielded like a staff.
Such modifications have come at a slight cost. The extra long barrel and unusual tip shape are not optimum for the rifle portion of this weapon. This sniper is powerful but perhaps not as accurate as others of its class.
Sunday, April 7, 2013
Tailing the Suspect (Adventure) - Calen Natari Saga 16
The airlock filled with water and Calen did her best to avoid needlessly bumping into others. The airlock was crowded but she wanted to take no chances. The room filled quickly, however, and most of the workers seemed to be distracted with getting home. All creatures have habits, the elders had told her. We assume things will go a certain way. It makes life simpler. When tracking prey the best disguise is to work your way in to the creatures habits. If you are part of what they assume, they will not be looking for you.
Calen watched how the workers reacted to the change of environment. They stood there relaxed and patient. As the water made it impossible to stand, they allowed the currents to dictate their movements. Calen did the same. To accidentally bump into someone this way would be expected.
The pressure equalized and the doors swooshed open. Her target walked over to the landing pads where the employees kept their vehicles. Calen had guessed that she might be in such a position so she had parked her Oboi close by but out of view.
Flipping on the submarine's engines she peeled away in the direction of the landing pads, hoping she had missed the suspect. The zelenca could move much faster through the water than she could so there was a chance he had already reached his own vehicle and left.
Dozens of ships were leaving the landing pad area all at once. Calen cursed under her breath. Even if he was still here, it would be easy to miss him in all this chaos. No wonder the poorly organized resistance never got beyond this point.
Not knowing what else to do, she followed the swarm of ships as they all headed toward the more residential portions of the city. Calen noted with interest that the ships seemed to move together as one, not too unlike some of the schools of fish she had seen swimming around. Not connected to whatever sense they used to do this, Calen did her best to mimic their driving style.
After traveling for a few minutes a few of the vehicles began to break off in different directions, presumably to go to their respective homes. Calen slammed her fist against a control panel in frustration. She felt so helpless so... out of control... in this environment. It was not a feeling she was accustomed to when hunting prey.
Suddenly one of the ships veered off and began to head in the opposite direction.
That's strange. Why would the pilot head back to where he just came from?
It was possible that he had just changed his mind about his destination. But worth checking out nonetheless since she had nothing else to go on right now. The vehicle increased speed and Calen punched her own throttle to match, staying back just far enough to be inconspicuous.
The tiny sub wove its way through rock formations and structures for quite some time before suddenly shooting toward the surface. Calen smiled grimly. The Spirits had favored her hunt. This had to be her suspect. From what she gathered, the zelenca almost never traveled to their planet's surface. But if one were trying to hide from the planetary authorities, the islands would be the perfect place to do so....
Calen watched how the workers reacted to the change of environment. They stood there relaxed and patient. As the water made it impossible to stand, they allowed the currents to dictate their movements. Calen did the same. To accidentally bump into someone this way would be expected.
The pressure equalized and the doors swooshed open. Her target walked over to the landing pads where the employees kept their vehicles. Calen had guessed that she might be in such a position so she had parked her Oboi close by but out of view.
Flipping on the submarine's engines she peeled away in the direction of the landing pads, hoping she had missed the suspect. The zelenca could move much faster through the water than she could so there was a chance he had already reached his own vehicle and left.
Dozens of ships were leaving the landing pad area all at once. Calen cursed under her breath. Even if he was still here, it would be easy to miss him in all this chaos. No wonder the poorly organized resistance never got beyond this point.
Not knowing what else to do, she followed the swarm of ships as they all headed toward the more residential portions of the city. Calen noted with interest that the ships seemed to move together as one, not too unlike some of the schools of fish she had seen swimming around. Not connected to whatever sense they used to do this, Calen did her best to mimic their driving style.
After traveling for a few minutes a few of the vehicles began to break off in different directions, presumably to go to their respective homes. Calen slammed her fist against a control panel in frustration. She felt so helpless so... out of control... in this environment. It was not a feeling she was accustomed to when hunting prey.
Suddenly one of the ships veered off and began to head in the opposite direction.
That's strange. Why would the pilot head back to where he just came from?
It was possible that he had just changed his mind about his destination. But worth checking out nonetheless since she had nothing else to go on right now. The vehicle increased speed and Calen punched her own throttle to match, staying back just far enough to be inconspicuous.
The tiny sub wove its way through rock formations and structures for quite some time before suddenly shooting toward the surface. Calen smiled grimly. The Spirits had favored her hunt. This had to be her suspect. From what she gathered, the zelenca almost never traveled to their planet's surface. But if one were trying to hide from the planetary authorities, the islands would be the perfect place to do so....
Sunday, March 24, 2013
The Dome (Adventure) - Calen Natari Saga 15
Calen shifted her weight ever so slightly to relieve the cramping in her arms. She had broken into the Dome several hours before the workday began, wanting to have time to examine her surroundings. A falsified key given to her by the bartender had granted her access and after that it had been easy to avoid the basic security measures in place.
It was a relief for Calen to not be floating around. She felt like her prey was now on her terms now, something a hunter always desired. But the first thing she noticed was the presence of bright lights everywhere to illuminate the work place. Her cloaking device would not last long in such an environment so it was necessary to find a hiding spot in order to preserve the charge for when she needed it most.
She ended up climbing on top of a large storage tank that was almost touching a portion of ceiling. It was a tight fit but Calen had long ago become inured to staying in uncomfortable positions for long periods of time. Worthy prey and the honor of making a difficult kill always made the wait worthwhile.
The images of the two suspect officials were burned into her memory. Carrying around a data pad on such a mission was impractical. If they showed up, she would recognize them. Many hours had gone by since the large airlock doors opened up to admit the first wave of workers and bots into the Dome and there was still no sign of either suspect.
Two more shifts left and entered before the first suspect finally walked in. Finally, Calen thought. She watched the zelenca with interest as he immediately went to work overseeing a portion of the factory floor. The bartender had been correct in that if messages were being sent, it was not from the Dome. The official was constantly surrounded by employees giving him little chance for privacy.
Calen could see that the zelenca had limited power at best. He supervised but Calen counted at least eight others that he seemed to answer too. If the man valued position or wealth he would be ripe for bribery. He was also in a key location to give the Imperium valuable information. Invasion on a water planet such as this would be difficult. But it would make strategic sense to try and cripple the economy by destroying its factories. All it would take is a handful of precise attacks to completely undermine the government.
The zelenca's behavior changed subtly and he began to glance at the airlock as if expecting someone. The change in behavior would have been imperceptible to a less experienced hunter. Another wave of workers and bots entered and with it came the second suspect.
So, there is a connection between them.
The two exchanged data pads, a seemingly normal occurrence between the supervisors of each shift and the first suspect began to head toward the airlock door.
'Vert!
Calen either had to take her chances following her first suspect or stay where she was and watch the second. Making a split-second calculation she activated her cloaking device and climbed down the storage tank with impressive agility, slipping into the airlock mere seconds before the door closed.
It was a relief for Calen to not be floating around. She felt like her prey was now on her terms now, something a hunter always desired. But the first thing she noticed was the presence of bright lights everywhere to illuminate the work place. Her cloaking device would not last long in such an environment so it was necessary to find a hiding spot in order to preserve the charge for when she needed it most.
She ended up climbing on top of a large storage tank that was almost touching a portion of ceiling. It was a tight fit but Calen had long ago become inured to staying in uncomfortable positions for long periods of time. Worthy prey and the honor of making a difficult kill always made the wait worthwhile.
The images of the two suspect officials were burned into her memory. Carrying around a data pad on such a mission was impractical. If they showed up, she would recognize them. Many hours had gone by since the large airlock doors opened up to admit the first wave of workers and bots into the Dome and there was still no sign of either suspect.
Two more shifts left and entered before the first suspect finally walked in. Finally, Calen thought. She watched the zelenca with interest as he immediately went to work overseeing a portion of the factory floor. The bartender had been correct in that if messages were being sent, it was not from the Dome. The official was constantly surrounded by employees giving him little chance for privacy.
Calen could see that the zelenca had limited power at best. He supervised but Calen counted at least eight others that he seemed to answer too. If the man valued position or wealth he would be ripe for bribery. He was also in a key location to give the Imperium valuable information. Invasion on a water planet such as this would be difficult. But it would make strategic sense to try and cripple the economy by destroying its factories. All it would take is a handful of precise attacks to completely undermine the government.
The zelenca's behavior changed subtly and he began to glance at the airlock as if expecting someone. The change in behavior would have been imperceptible to a less experienced hunter. Another wave of workers and bots entered and with it came the second suspect.
So, there is a connection between them.
The two exchanged data pads, a seemingly normal occurrence between the supervisors of each shift and the first suspect began to head toward the airlock door.
'Vert!
Calen either had to take her chances following her first suspect or stay where she was and watch the second. Making a split-second calculation she activated her cloaking device and climbed down the storage tank with impressive agility, slipping into the airlock mere seconds before the door closed.
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