The Time and The Place

[The Bindoner]

Pete replies, smiling: I suppose I'm chief Gunner too. Boarder's my favourite job though. I'm better up close.

[Tiglath]

Shortly after this, two more people arrive, a man and woman in black military uniform. Ummiimir greets them :Konrad, Dyanne, welcome! Come and meet our guests.

Addressing Kar, Tiv and Raven: This is Commander Wolfe and Captain Dorn, of the Tyrian ship SS Ilsa. I have hopes that you will find you have things in common.

Commander Wolfe corrects Ummiimir in accented Anglic: A ship of Tyr, only, not a Tyrian ship. A small distinction, but important, here at Blackrock station, yes? We are a civilian ship now. Though as officers of the reserve, Captain Dorn and I are entitled to our uniform, neither we nor the Ilsa are part of the fleet at present.

Raven introduces herself "Raven Sorrow, Raid Leader - those warriors are my warband. If you raid and build ships then we have at least two things in common".

[The Bindoner]

Tiv looks around, smiles, and says, Sir, that looks quite brilliant. Quite homely! My compliments to your digital art department. Thank you. This may well be more human station staff than I have ever seen at one time on this station. He smiles at Soraia.

Soraia makes a dismissive gesture. No art. It is only a projection of recorded data.


>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>


Áshildr, looking around at the “Hall”, remarks to Raven: I’ve been here. One of Hallstein’s estates, out in the southwestern wilds.

Sigmundr adds: I thought it was familiar. I’ve been there as well. A Kian stud. Nothing else for miles. We went riding.

Hróarr stares at the valley: There are ruins behind us, not estates. That is the way back from them. He empties his drink and goes to get another

Upon returning, he listens into the conversation as he hands Yumi’s glass to her with the silly grin that seems to always reside on his face, but his eyes do shine in a way that those who know him can tell his smile is real. He leans in and whispers, Very impressive. Thank you. I owe you a big one. Glad to know I'm not a complete savage...

Nah, guy, no debt. We pirates got to stick together against the chandlers, or they’ll get our plunder without the risk.

Besides, I know the value of that stuff. I’m not just the Thorn’s Pilot, I’m Sal’s locksmith too.

Tiv extends his hand in greeting.
My name is Tiv. Technical Commander Tivali Thingvellier, but please...Tiv. Out on your own now? And a long way from home. What is it that brings you to Blackrock? I’ve heard your ship is quite impressive.

Commander Wolfe answers: Perhaps we are beyond the habitual sphere of influence of Tyr, Tiv, but we are trade ship. We come here to trade.

The Ilsa is well-regarded? That is pleasing. She is not what she was, though.

Captain Dorn interjects: Mauled by those verdammt cats. Her accent is not as heavy as Wolfe's, but she allows her emotion to show where he does not.

Konrad remains calm: And rebuilt. Her teeth, they are still sharp, and, though weaker, she is not weak. And now she travels the stars, to strengthen Tyr.


With new blood.

Raven introduces herself "Raven Sorrow, Raid Leader - those warriors are my warband. If you raid and build ships then we have at least two things in common".

Commander Wolfe responds: Raid Leader Sorrow, your warriors made a splendid impression as they paraded through the station.

Dyanne comments, approvingly: I had not expected to see such discipline.


Konrad continues, choosing his words carefully: Oghma has a reputation for martial prowess through individual action, in comparison to the more formal military tradition of Tyr.

Speaking of traditions, it is true that Tyr is renowned for exacting tribute from the worlds in its region. Raiding, you would say. Our shipyards, despite the efforts of our enemies, do still operate. Not just to rebuild the damaged, like our Ilsa, but to construct the new.

Restoring our strength, building a better future.

Edited

and re-edited

[Thumper]

Tiv offers Ummimmir and Soraia an understanding and appreciative nod.

Nah, guy, no debt. We pirates got to stick together against the chandlers, or they’ll get our plunder without the risk.

Besides, I know the value of that stuff. I’m not just the Thorn’s Pilot, I’m Sal’s locksmith too.

I knew you were too smart to be Pete’s gunner. How long you been with Sal, and where did she find you? I hear she’s’ been just about everywhere… If I had to venture a guess, I'd say you are of Asim descent. and that's not far.

Commander Wolfe answers: Perhaps we are beyond the habitual sphere of influence of Tyr, Tiv, but we are trade ship. We come here to trade.

Captain Dorn interjects: Mauled by those verdammt cats. Her accent is not as heavily accented as Wolfe, but she allows her emotion to show where he does not.

Commander Wolfe, it is doubly a pleasure that we meet tonight. I am here as my Chieftain’s trade emissary…for a little while longer. . He glances over at Raven and Kar then back. Everyone seems to want slaves. What exactly is it you are looking for? I’m certain we can fill your need. Ships for Clan Aesgirr...that would be a most impossible dream to trade slaves for ships. We would, of course… But what, in reality, would you have to offer for a hold full of… ”New blood”? What else do you seek? We can offer good quantities of Boron, if that is needed. Sindalian artifacts? Perhaps we can help each other rebuild?

But how rude of me. Here the rest of us are holding drinks, and you have none. He waves over a servant and asks the Tyrians Oghman ale is always good, and, as a non-whiskey lover, I can recommend this whiskey. What was the brand again, Yumi? Wont find its equal anywhere around here. Thank you again to our host!

And as for those…hair balls…they do seem to be gobbling up ever expanding territory in the Reach. One of their emissaries is on station for the same trade purpose…presumably to be used against you. We’re entertaining them for a short while. I do not think things will end…amicably for them though. Give us a couple days, and perhaps we should speak about this again. You didn’t happen to spot their escort combatant out in the belt did you? I am interested in speaking about that later. I have some thoughts that require a little more nourishment before going there. May I contact you when those thoughts are germinated?

[Tiglath]

Áshildr, looking around at the “Hall”, remarks to Raven: I’ve been here. One of Hallstein’s estates, out in the southwestern wilds.

Raven responds "But this is not real. It is nothing but a conjured seeming - it's just like one of Loki's tricks". She takes some ale and draws the spell breaking rune on the bar top snarling "Leave it be or lose your hand!!!" at bewildered barkeep and his towel.

Captain Dorn interjects: Mauled by those verdammt cats. Her accent is not as heavy as Wolfe's, but she allows her emotion to show where he does not.

Konrad remains calm: And rebuilt. Her teeth, they are still sharp, and, though weaker, she is not weak. And now she travels the stars, to strengthen Tyr.

Raven replies to Dorn "To my raider's eye these "cats" seem over confident and that makes them vulnerable - ever more so in a place where they feel secure... Anyone attacking them here would need an ally with sharp teeth to ward away ships coming to their aid while my pack tears them down".

Commander Wolfe responds: Raid Leader Sorrow, your warriors made a splendid impression as they paraded through the station.


Dyanne comments, approvingly: I had not expected to see such discipline.

Raven beams with dangerous pride at the compliments to her warband. She responds "There is surely no point in having a reputation unless you use it to gain yet more advantage?" Then she turns to hoist her stein towards her warband and screams the drawn out toast "Óðinn!" as the warband responds lustily she grins with predatory glee as she eyes Dyanne and Konrad levelly "A wolf pack must have discipline and application otherwise they will starve. The whole moves as one to put their most dangerous pack members in the path of the prey. Then the killers do their work and all feast - but it's the pack's tactics that give them full bellies".

Konrad continues, choosing his words carefully: Oghma has a reputation for martial prowess through individual action, in comparison to the more formal military tradition of Tyr.

Raven immediately looks Konrad straight in the eye and states "Skippare Konrad as a warrior of Týr* you ride a very fine ship and so you must surely know and feel that certain dark pride in eyeing the company of a meadhall and knowing that, if you had to make the square for the holmgang then and there, you would have the measure of every living soul in the room?" She pauses and her lips draw all the way back from her straight white teeth as she watches Konrad for reaction - then she breaks that moment, drains her ale, slams down the empty glass and laughs "But the best fighter is no use without a warband to put her among the enemy, a ship precisely navigated and expertly steered so to set her just there and, most important of all, a sound stratagem to gather every advantage to that moment and then cast all on the favour of the gods! Wild men and wild steel scare civilised folk but they comfort themselves in assuming the ignorance of unruly savages. Could you imagine their unbridled terror if they knew how some of the "wild hunt" prize military discipline and tactics?"

(OOC: Yes, she did!
Edited)

[Thumper]

My venn Konrad, I think you will find Clan Aesgeirr a bit more…what is the term?…effective?… than other Oghmen…in lethality and in friendship.


Tiv’s Imperial Anglic is heavily accented.

Good cop/bad cop scene

[The Bindoner]

I knew you were too smart to be Pete’s gunner. How long you been with Sal, and where did she find you? I hear she’s’ been just about everywhere… If I had to venture a guess, I'd say you are of Asim descent. and that's not far.

Asim? Nah. I’m from Colony Six. Asim's like, Ship 2 or something. You’re right, it’s not far from here. Lovely climate, but very... rural. Nice world for a holiday, wouldn’t want to live there.

No good for opportunists like us either. Mostly Ag-Freighters, Bulk cargo, low price. It’d make a good hunting ground for Oghma though. Lucky for them, your ships have short legs.

Commander Wolfe, it is doubly a pleasure that we meet tonight. I am here as my Chieftain’s trade emissary…for a little while longer. . He glances over at Raven and Kar then back. Everyone seems to want slaves. What exactly is it you are looking for? I’m certain we can fill your need. Ships for Clan Aesgirr...that would be a most impossible dream to trade slaves for ships. We would, of course… But what, in reality, would you have to offer for a hold full of… ”New blood”? What else do you seek? We can offer good quantities of Boron, if that is needed. Sindalian artifacts? Perhaps we can help each other rebuild?

Wolfe answers:

Tyr has no resources spare to donate for the development of others. We have no need of relics of Sindal, or any other world, either. Boron, though, is useful.

Dorn: Not as useful as people.


Tyr lost many to the predations of our foes.


The Cat’s dog-soldiers, hired by those Acis degenerates.


Now we must replace. What we need are workers.

And mothers. Surrogates. To nurture good Tyrian children.

We will take those you sell as slaves. Wolfe turns to Ummiimir and Soraia, to clarify a point: Tyr does not have such a class of person as slave, though. They will become indentured until they earn the status of Guest Workers.

[Tiglath]

Good cop/bad cop scene

Doesn't that Oghman flavour make it bad cop / worse cop?

[The Bindoner]

This is the Outrim Void, there are no cops, and least-bad is the closest thing to good.

Second part to follow, when time allows.

[Thumper]

Ya ya...bad cop and really bad cop!!

[Thumper]

Asim? Nah. I’m from Colony Six. Asim's like, Ship 2 or something. You’re right, it’s not far from here. Lovely climate, but very... rural. Nice world for a holiday, wouldn’t want to live there.

No good for opportunists like us either. Mostly Ag-Freighters, Bulk cargo, low price. It’d make a good hunting ground for Oghma though. Lucky for them, your ships have short legs.

I see...you just look like someone I've met.

But thank you just the same. I could learn much from you, I think. And thank you for agreeing to hang with me, er, us tonight. I like having you here. Locksmiths make the best lock picks, you know? We share an interest there…

Colony six, I have studied of that planet recently. Sandwiched between the Hierate and the so called Glorious Empire...danger envelopment on both sides. Good to be away from there. I fear for Oghma in a similar way. Our old ways will not make us strong enough in the face of that danger. We must gain greater strength or lose our independence to those cats.

But I bore you. So sorry. I have seen you looking at the clothing of the Oghmen women. I should get you some of their fashion...not later, as previously discussed... but now.

Wolfe answers:

Tyr has no resources spare to donate for the development of others. We have no need of relics of Sindal, or any other world, either. Boron, though, is useful.

Dorn: Not as useful as people.

Tyr lost many to the predations of our foes.

The Cat’s dog-soldiers, hired by those Acis degenerates.

Now we must replace. What we need are workers.

And mothers. Surrogates. To nurture good Tyrian children.

We will take those you sell as slaves. Wolfe turns to Ummiimir and Soraia, to clarify a point: Tyr does not have such a class of person as slave, though. They will become indentured until they earn the status of Guest Workers.

Speaking loudly enough for Arnwulf and Remington to hear: I would be very happy to help you with that. Boron and people...I like the way you think about your acquired labor and surrogates. I am about to say something that sets me at odds with my fellow Oghmen...including Clan members; though Lady Vigdis has heard this rant and never gives reproach. You see, I have no problem with exploiting those too weak to defend themselves adequately...but there are limits...practical ones. We take liberally from others, especially the Sinners of Marduk and Borite…these sided with our old enemy and tried to destroy Oghma. They must never rise to power again, and they owe our people reparations. We receive strength from the taking. But humans devoid of hope...eventually, many sink into the pit of despair and act out of desperation. Hopeless humans, are dangerous in any critical capacity. Yet Oghma remains reliant on desperate alien slaves, because they remain steeped in the "Old Ways", as defined by the Priestesses, and refuse to advance.

Every quarterly raid season in Oghma begins with a seasonal festival. Our so called, "Priesthood" as he rolls his eyes demands the Nobel Sacrifice at these festivals. Oghmen are never sacrificed, because the supply of foreign slaves willing to end their suffering through sacrificial suicide is limitless. This is not a means to make sacred through voluntary offering to the Gods, mind you...it is their only possible escape from a tormented lifetime of slavery with no perceptible end. And to rely upon foreigners to crew our ships is utter foolishness. Aesgirr of true vision seek to advance Oghmen to a state of self-sufficiency in more advanced ways...create true independence while retaining their warrior pride. Leaning in, he lowers his voice to speak conspiratorially and only the principles in the discussion may hear: Every time one of our ships has a mishap, I have to wonder if the slave crewmembers were responsible.

Raising his voice again: I like that you indenture your acquired labor in a time limited fashion. It gives promise of a better life, eventually, to those taken. It gives hope.

You will get your laborers and surrogates…all you can carry…you will get your Boron to fill any additional hold capacity...from Aesgirr. In return, bring Aesgirr TL10 manufacturing capabilities along with the manuals, educational materials and instruction in how to operate and maintain them...maybe even “indentured servants” to teach us. Cottage industry sized systems that we can operate covertly are preferable. Yours or someone else’s, old or new…it does not matter. You trade only with Aesgirr, and you will return to Tyr with IIsa’s belly filled with people and Boron...every three months! On my honor as an Aesgirr, in the name of my father Arnarson, and speaking on behalf of my chieftain Hallsteinn. He offers his hand...

As an after thought: Oh yes, almost forgot...we can send you home with cold-hearty Kian as well, if that suits you.

Edited

[Thumper]

Persuasion Roll:


If you want to add an INT or EDU bonus they are both +3 additional to the persuade skill

[Tiglath]

This is the Outrim Void, there are no cops, and least-bad is the closest thing to good.

There's no Justice - there's just us...

[hardrocks]

There's no Justice - there's just us...

Ow Gawd

[The Bindoner]

But how rude of me. Here the rest of us are holding drinks, and you have none. He waves over a servant and asks the Tyrians Oghman ale is always good, and, as a non-whiskey lover, I can recommend this whiskey. What was the brand again, Yumi? Wont find its equal anywhere around here. Thank you again to our host!

And as for those…hair balls…they do seem to be gobbling up ever expanding territory in the Reach. One of their emissaries is on station for the same trade purpose…presumably to be used against you. We’re entertaining them for a short while. I do not think things will end…amicably for them though. Give us a couple days, and perhaps we should speak about this again. You didn’t happen to spot their escort combatant out in the belt did you? I am interested in speaking about that later. I have some thoughts that require a little more nourishment before going there. May I contact you when those thoughts are germinated?

The whisky is a Yamazaki Peated Malt from Asim.


At Tiv’s mention of the Aslan’s presence on the station Dorn frowns and growls, about to say something, before Wolfe silences her with a touch on her arm.


We are aware that a ship from the Empire is taking advantage Blackrock’s neutrality.

Wolfe looks at Dorn with a questioning glance, and receives no response.

I cannot say that we have located any escort that may be present.

Raven replies to Dorn "To my raider's eye these "cats" seem over confident and that makes them vulnerable - ever more so in a place where they feel secure... Anyone attacking them here would need an ally with sharp teeth to ward away ships coming to their aid while my pack tears them down".

A chance to strike at them would be delightful.

With some pride, Dorn tells Raven: Ilsa still has her beams. Focused pulse lasers and plasma cannons in barbettes. They are sharp, designed to tear armour.

With bitterness, she adds: Her real weapon is gone, though. The missile bay is now cargo space and the magazine fuel. And we have no marines aboard, to exploit the breach.


Wolfe is more circumspect: It would not serve Tyr to lose access to Blackrock, and involving ourselves in an attack on another ship visiting here may do that.

Raven beams with dangerous pride at the compliments to her warband. She responds "There is surely no point in having a reputation unless you use it to gain yet more advantage?" Then she turns to hoist her stein towards her warband and screams the drawn out toast "Óðinn!" as the warband responds lustily she grins with predatory glee as she eyes Dyanne and Konrad levelly "A wolf pack must have discipline and application otherwise they will starve. The whole moves as one to put their most dangerous pack members in the path of the prey. Then the killers do their work and all feast - but it's the pack's tactics that give them full bellies".

Dorn’s eyes sparkle as she looks covetously on the young warriors: Tyr würde eine solche Kraft gut gebrauchen.*

To Wolfe: Siehst du, Konrad? Prächtige Exemplare. So viel Jugend und Elan. Diese Leute haben die gleiche Blutlinie wie wir, sie sind die gleiche Rasse. Wir sollten sie in das Zuchtprogramm aufnehmen.*


Turning back to Raven: Your people are strong, and well-formed. Very like those of Tyr. I think it is no coincidence the names of our worlds share cultural references, I think we are from the same part of Sol. consanguinous. I would like to perform some tests to prove it, if you will allow?

If the results are as I expect, I think we will trade more than captives.

Raven immediately looks Konrad straight in the eye and states "Skippare Konrad as a warrior of Týr* you ride a very fine ship and so you must surely know and feel that certain dark pride in eyeing the company of a meadhall and knowing that, if you had to make the square for the holmgang then and there, you would have the measure of every living soul in the room?" She pauses and her lips draw all the way back from her straight white teeth as she watches Konrad for reaction - then she breaks that moment, drains her ale, slams down the empty glass and laughs "But the best fighter is no use without a warband to put her among the enemy, a ship precisely navigated and expertly steered so to set her just there and, most important of all, a sound stratagem to gather every advantage to that moment and then cast all on the favour of the gods! Wild men and wild steel scare civilised folk but they comfort themselves in assuming the ignorance of unruly savages. Could you imagine their unbridled terror if they knew how some of the "wild hunt" prize military discipline and tactics?"

Konrad meets Raven’s gaze, but looks uncomfortable doing so.

I, and Captain Dorn, we are, were, officers in the Navy of Tyr. Our role is to destroy the ships of our enemy, and place our troops on their territory. If a room full of people need killing, we will have that done before entering it.


I admit, though, the reputation of Oghma did not lead me to expect the orderliness you have shown.


Dorn: As Commander Wolfe says, our work is to kill at a distance, but that do not mistake, we appreciate the qualities of those who carry out the violence we order. And of those who know how to direct them.

My venn Konrad, I think you will find Clan Aesgeirr a bit more…what is the term?…effective?… than other Oghmen…in lethality and in friendship.

Tiv’s Imperial Anglic is heavily accented.

Effective… Perhaps that is an appropriate term. Certainly, we have gained a better impression than expected. There is potential that may be built upon.




*

The serpent translates: Tyr could use some of that. Look at them, Konrad. Beautiful, young and strong. They are part of our family. We should mate with them.

The Serpent has a forked tongue

[hardrocks]

Kar, for the most, will keep his own counsel. Engaging in small talk as an when required. He lisnens in, with a brokers ear, to the conversation between the Tyrians and Tiv and keeps a weather eye on Leon and a couple of the other Ne'er do wells.

[Tiglath]

Raven eyes Wolfe and Dorn and states "It seems these Aslan can be taken but neither of us have the right mix of forces to do it alone. However, an alliance gives us the troops for a ground raid and nearly enough fighting ships to defeat the escort vessel in space combat. If these are acts of piracy then I hardly think the Pirate Lords of Theev will object nor entertain complaints about it".

Konrad meets Raven’s gaze, but looks uncomfortable doing so.

I, and Captain Dorn, we are, were, officers in the Navy of Tyr... if a room full of people need killing, we will have that done before entering it.

Raven grins again "I admire your certainty that fate or bad luck will never interrupt your plans - even when those of the gods themselves can fall foul of Loki's trickery". She laughs and gathers up a fresh ale* "Commander Wolfe, I expect that if you ever find yourself in the "wrong room" your admirable foresight will have already put allies at your side who will keep you whole".

Your people are strong, and well-formed. Very like those of Tyr. I think it is no coincidence the names of our worlds share cultural references, I think we are from the same part of Sol. consanguinous. I would like to perform some tests to prove it, if you will allow?

Paying absent attention to Dorn after catching her drift (and then running her mind at a tangent since Sal described going "sex mad" as a symptom of initial exposure to the Dragon's Breath) Raven says "Well, I'd wait until they've eaten and then buy one of them an ale. Don't be too obvious but you might want to loosen your uniform up a bit - just to avoid any confusion".

She helpfully adds "Use your common sense though - some of them are spoken for".

(OOC: * The bar staff may have expected to be advising on drinks choices, mixing cocktails or asking if folk would like ice and a slice. Instead their instructions for warband catering are simple "Ale" and "Keep up!" Oh, and yes, self service is also a thing!

EDIT: added potential for misunderstanding and minor mayhem...

Blame The Serpent! ).

[The Bindoner]

I knew you were too smart to be Pete’s gunner. How long you been with Sal, and where did she find you? I hear she’s’ been just about everywhere…

Yumi tells Tiv: I joined Sal on Theev, nearly 30 weeks ago. Freshest crewmember. Pete’s next newest, got on board in the Sojournate, about 15 weeks before that. I think he jumped ship from a Belgardian Lancer.

I bailed on a corsair. Part of a band. Not my scene, gangs. Waste of talent too, popping locks on merchants. Same tech every time. Snooze. I swapped jobs with her old helmsman. Dull guy. All he could see was the credits, and what to buy with them. He’ll be liking the Admiral’s fleet.

Captain Scarlett though, she’s crispy. Style. Vision. She’s not just robbing traders, she’s got purpose. Drive. Travels fast and frequent too, no wasted weeks spending the take in port, lurking in ambush waiting for the next score, or Jumping around looking for luck. She’s working on something important.

I have some thoughts that require a little more nourishment before going there. May I contact you when those thoughts are germinated?

Wolfe: By all means. I will give consideration to any proposal. If I see no risk of compromising our access to this station, then we will discuss terms.

Raven eyes Wolfe and Dorn and states "It seems these Aslan can be taken but neither of us have the right mix of forces to do it alone. However, an alliance gives us the troops for a ground raid and nearly enough fighting ships to defeat the escort vessel in space combat. If these are acts of piracy then I hardly think the Pirate Lords of Theev will object nor entertain complaints about it".

Dorn: I would join any strike on the Empire. If we, and Ilsa, lose docking rights here, what does that matter? We are not Tyr, another ship will come. Those profane felines, they will think twice about coming here again, if they lose this trade mission.

Wolfe: It is more complicated. The Lords of Theev guarantee that all who trade at Blackrock are immune from piracy while visiting. That includes transit to and from Jump Point. All Tyrians will be suspect by the Lords if we break the sanctuary of Blackrock, and the Empire may well declare direct war, not just send their Dog Soldiers to fight for Acis. Things must be handled carefully, planned for.


Ach, your diplomacy. This is why I stayed a bridge officer, and did not go Flag. Tyr must show strength wherever it can. This escort. It is not visiting Blackrock. It cannot claim the protection of sanctuary. It is the warship of our enemies. I want to take it. * she smiles like someone anticipating a pleasure * I can learn a lot from examining the captives.

I am forgetting, though. We are traders now. So, we must make a business of our duty. To Tiv: A contract, with terms set out. What each is to do, and get. When the seed of your thought has been watered, fed and sprouted.


Ummiimir watches contentedly as his guests talk, and Soraia works on her datapad.

He comments on the discussion: It is true, the escort is not registered, and so is not protected. It could, indeed, be regarded as hostile. To the Oghmen: The more delicate matter would be the action against the ship already here. Ideally one would disable or subvert surveillance, capture the vessel and leave without anyone knowing an incident had taken place, but I doubt that would be possible. So. Some justification will need to be invented, perhaps a provocation, that causes them to forfeit sanctuary. Then, if discovered, the intervention would be explainable.

Soon robotic carts arrive, the human servers set out food on the central tables, and Ummiimir shows everyone to their places, sitting Kar, Raven, Tiv, Leon and Arnwulf, so they can continue their discussions with him, Wolfe and Dorn.

Raven grins again "I admire your certainty that fate or bad luck will never interrupt your plans - even when those of the gods themselves can fall foul of Loki's trickery". She laughs and gathers up a fresh ale* "Commander Wolfe, I expect that if you ever find yourself in the "wrong room" your admirable foresight will have already put allies at your side who will keep you whole".

I have learned not to put the people I am responsible for in a position where luck is a factor. Things that can go wrong, do. Tyr has suffered enough, my job is to avoid losing any more.


Dorn defends Wolfe: Konrad is as capable, with blade or sidearm, of personally defeating our foes as any Tyrian officer, I assure you. Do not mistake caution for weakness, his record as a warrior is excellent, his courage undoubted. He commanded the Ilsa in her last battle, it is due to him that all were not lost.

Your people are strong, and well-formed. Very like those of Tyr. I think it is no coincidence the names of our worlds share cultural references, I think we are from the same part of Sol. Consanguineous. I would like to perform some tests to prove it, if you will allow?

Paying absent attention to Dorn after catching her drift (and then running her mind at a tangent since Sal described going "sex mad" as a symptom of initial exposure to the Dragon's Breath) Raven says "Well, I'd wait until they've eaten and then buy one of them an ale. Don't be too obvious but you might want to loosen your uniform up a bit - just to avoid any confusion".

Dyanne either misses the point, or deliberately ignores it:

Thank you. It will be fascinating to see how close our shared lineage is.

She helpfully adds "Use your common sense though - some of them are spoken for".

She looks confused: Why would that matter? I am only collecting genetic samples now, recruitment to the program would only follow if the results are satisfactory.

Ummiimir drinks a tall vodka and tonic, then takes a glass of wine with his food. Soraia, who seems always somewhat "absent", sips occasionally at an orange-juice based drink. Wolfe and Dorn happily drink beer, moderately.

EDITED

[Thumper]

…
I bailed on a corsair. Part of a band. Not my scene, gangs. Waste of talent too, popping locks on merchants. Same tech every time. Snooze. I swapped jobs with her old helmsman. Dull guy. All he could see was the credits, and what to buy with them. He’ll be liking the Admiral’s fleet.

Captain Scarlett though, she’s crispy. Style. Vision. She’s not just robbing traders, she’s got purpose. Drive. Travels fast and frequent too, no wasted weeks spending the take in port, lurking in ambush waiting for the next score, or Jumping around looking for luck. She’s working on something important.[/color]

It seems ease breeds complacency for pirates as it does Oghmen. I like that you are looking for more action than only repetitious raiding…your style or ours. Yes, Sal certainly seems to be pursuing something important…to her.

I know Raggi has been with her since leaving the Sword Worlds. He or Aedzveis must have the most tenure on Sal’s crew.

If this caper you’re hearing about works out, we might have need of skilled crews. If it weren’t for those clothes, I’d try recruiting you right now. If that’s fashion, then I obviously have no eye for it. Must be some sort of public defense against us barbarians…or pirates… Come to think of it, I could probably use your lockpick talents tomorrow. I’d like to bounce a hacking plan off you in the morning.

Wolfe: By all means. I will give consideration to any proposal. If I see no risk of compromising our access to this station, then we will discuss terms.

Nah, we want you back here too…to bring us some good stuff if nothing else. I kind of like you two already. Sounds like we share similar experiences…and perhaps genes. You want a contract, I’ll write you one. It seems that a cargo hold full of militarily useful micro-manufacturing is worth as many slaves of your choosing as you can carry and the remainder of your belly full of Boron ore. Tiv extracts his hand computer, ensures it is connected to the system wifi, then speaks directions to the AI program to draft a contract for the same. Seeing that it begins auto-drafting a contract, he looks to Ummiimir:

He comments on the discussion: It is true, the escort is not registered, and so is not protected. It could, indeed, be regarded as hostile. To the Oghmen: The more delicate matter would be the action against the ship already here. Ideally one would disable or subvert surveillance, capture the vessel and leave without anyone knowing an incident had taken place, but I doubt that would be possible. So. Some justification will need to be invented, perhaps a provocation, that causes them to forfeit sanctuary. Then, if discovered, the intervention would be explainable.

I like the way you think, Ummiimir. Especially about getting the Cats to provoke a fight. I shall think on a way to affect that. My study of the nasty kitties indicates the male of the species is prone to aggression. Do we know if any substances promote their aggression? Perhaps there is a way of doping them into a fight. Let the station record the events as they unfold showing us as the innocent party.

I do think it best if the escort is dealt with out of system. Perhaps the two kitty ships have an emergency rendevouz plan in Thebus or Noricum. If the Yeraorao (crewed by us) were to leave the station, get immediately pursued by the llsa, and prematurely jumped; I would presume the escort would jump to that rendevouz point. If the Serpent and Lady Ice were already there and waiting in ambush, the escort would fall right into their hands. Even better should the llsa and/or Yeraorao arrive a little ahead of the escort…they could play too. If not, the Lady Ice and Serpent should be sufficient for the job.

Of course, such a plan would require deriving this rendezvous point from the Yeraorao’s Nav computer. If there, this is doable. If not…well, we’d need a backup plan.

Tiv has noticeably changed to slowly sipping ale again to preserve his wits in this discussion. At some point he'll return to the work of the contract draft, make a few amendments and send it to Dyan and Konrad for their revision.

[Tiglath]

Dorn: I would join any strike on the Empire. If we, and Ilsa, lose docking rights here, what does that matter? We are not Tyr, another ship will come. Those profane felines, they will think twice about coming here again, if they lose this trade mission.

Wolfe: It is more complicated. The Lords of Theev guarantee that all who trade at Blackrock are immune from piracy while visiting. That includes transit to and from Jump Point. All Tyrians will be suspect by the Lords if we break the sanctuary of Blackrock, and the Empire may well declare direct war, not just send their Dog Soldiers to fight for Acis. Things must be handled carefully, planned for.

Ach, your diplomacy. This is why I stayed a bridge officer, and did not go Flag. Tyr must show strength wherever it can. This escort. It is not visiting Blackrock. It cannot claim the protection of sanctuary. It is the warship of our enemies. I want to take it. * she smiles like someone anticipating a pleasure * I can learn a lot from examining the captives.

Raven adds sullenly "We too are primarily tasked with diplomacy. It would not serve my Jarl well for his raiders to be barred from Blackrock's markets nor for a stellar Empire to declare war on our home planet. We are perhaps too close to home for bold moves. We might serve Oghma best if we take to the Sindalian Main". She then distractedly dips a finger in her ale and begins drawing a pattern on the table top. She places five dots in a row with the fifth lower than the line of four. She smears the fourth dot as she muses "Fuel for the "rainbow bridge" is the only thing that would hold us back... unless I can leap the Bifröst another way...".

"Commander Wolfe, you are both a leader and a diplomat and therefore have an understanding of how Oghman raiders work - where one finds success others follow. You are also a wise and properly cautious commander and... might... in your calculations allow for how we work... and still yet be mistaken. As to ourselves we have already sized each other up as warriors will and have established that I will beat you in a duel. However, I feel that this is an auspicious night and so, since we have no need for blades, maybe you might feel you could beat me in a game of chance or... maybe a wager?"

[OOC: It seems that whilst now being diplomatic Raven isn't going to stop "alpha-ing" Wolfe [real word (just invented) and stops me having to use 'itchslapping]. It's not her fault that the Tyrrian (closet Navy) puts people who excel at naval tactics and ship handling in charge of their ships! You can immediately see where they went wrong there... um... not... ]

Ummiimir... comments on the discussion: It is true, the escort is not registered, and so is not protected. It could, indeed, be regarded as hostile. To the Oghmen: The more delicate matter would be the action against the ship already here. Ideally one would disable or subvert surveillance, capture the vessel and leave without anyone knowing an incident had taken place, but I doubt that would be possible. So. Some justification will need to be invented, perhaps a provocation, that causes them to forfeit sanctuary. Then, if discovered, the intervention would be explainable.

Raven listens and then replies "Good - then we can surely strike the escort at will and from an aspect of our choosing since we will initiate the attack".

Seemingly less interested in ship to ship combat she asks Ummiimir "What sort of incident would cause a forfeiture of the Theev Lord's sanctuary... and give me a ship to leap the Bifröst?"

Dorn defends Wolfe: Konrad is as capable, with blade or sidearm, of personally defeating our foes as any Tyrian officer, I assure you. Do not mistake caution for weakness, his record as a warrior is excellent, his courage undoubted. He commanded the Ilsa in her last battle, it is due to him that all were not lost.

She looks confused: Why would that matter? I am only collecting genetic samples now, recruitment to the program would only follow if the results are satisfactory.

Raven quaffs ale and around hearty eating (of veg and protein) allows "You are properly loyal Dyanne Dorn but I am just sounding out your Commander. It is the Oghman way. Indeed I have looked him in the eye and know that he has no wish to meet my gaze in battle. There is no shame in it - he steers ships and I am a Name known among Oghman raiders and have piled a heap of souls in Hel's domain. Indeed he would gain more reputation by killing me than I him. He strikes me as a careful but not cautious commander and that's no bad thing at all in the business we will be in". She smiles "Tell him I said that... later".

She raises her glass "Gods, I drink to hearty appetites! You can call it what you like but if you plan on getting "genetic samples" off all of my warband here and now two things are guaranteed: firstly there will be a fight - and I will not protect you; secondly, and if somehow the first doesn't happen, you will be going back to your ship in a wheelbarrow".