008: Reunion at Collace

[Tiglath]

I suggest all those who are jumping roll the bones (NB snake eyes = not good) and I'll catch up the narrative.

Now why would any sane person wanna go jumping outta a perfectly good airplane?

I was an A&P - there ain't no such animal

I can't say it was a matter of duty because I volunteered. I can therefore only respond that it seemed like a good idea at the time. However, I will state that the strange and near undefinable tranquility of landing by parachute in an English cornfield was something just very affirming. Cast about for a descriptive and there I went.

[Thumper]

I suggest all those who are jumping roll the bones (NB snake eyes = not good) and I'll catch up the narrative.

Now why would any sane person wanna go jumping outta a perfectly good airplane?

I was an A&P - there ain't no such animal

I can't say it was a matter of duty because I volunteered. I can therefore only respond that it seemed like a good idea at the time. However, I will state that the strange and near undefinable tranquility of landing by parachute in an English cornfield was something just very affirming. Cast about for a descriptive and there I went.

Actually, very jealous. The most I’ve done was several “Tethered-flight”…on a c-9 parasail behind trucks and boats and release to free fall only about 100’ to practice the landing fall on land and water. Always wanted to go for a big jump…never did.

[ateno]

Actually, very jealous. The most I’ve done was several “Tethered-falls”…on a paraglide behind trucks and boats to practice the landing fall on land and water. Always wanted to go for a big jump…never did.

Many years ago while in OJT for the military, my buddy and I volunteered for jump school, we showed up and took the test and was told that they could not send us cause there was no airborne recruiter on base.

Glad it did not happen.

[Tiglath]

All aboard the Skylark!

Those wishing to make a (re-)entrance at the Merc's Mixer make their way to the (smaller) downport situated midspire Collace Prime. Here they find the shuttle "Skylark" prepping for orbital flight and a number of "Re-Enterists" loading gear and wearing "sport" vac suits in various bright colours. They all seem to know each other and are chatting amiably about the jump conditions.

A roguishly handsome male wearing a black and white quartered sport vac suit with the circular stylistic 4DC logo spots you and greets you with a cheery smile. He makes his way across the hangar frowning at a call on his forearm monunted comm "For the last time, no! For the same reason as the jump capsules. No, it is more dishonourable to have your head and feet burned off because you are too big for the re-entry sled - I'll see you at the restaurant". He closes with a valediction in what may have been Trokh then grins and shakes his head ruefully at his comm before introducing himself to the team.

Col Skeet Cmdr 4DC PMC.jpg (62.43 KiB) Viewed 1474 times

"Hello there! Skeet, 4DC. Duran told me there were some folk wanting to jump with us. Good for you". His accent is Imperial but with that Marches "border twang" from up around Jewell sub sector. "We'll get you kitted up and you can jump after those competing in the "Open League".

Skeet seems friendly and competent but somehow doesn't have those "tells" that mark him as military (although that is clearly the field in which now thrives). He certainly has an eye for the ladies and those females noticing him noticing receive a charmingly roguish wink. However, he soon acknowledges the various partnerships and doesn't press the matter any further than exercising an apparently genuine appreciation for good looking women.

Glancing at his comm he casts about the hangar to spot another five figures approaching the Skylark. The four males are wearing sport vac suits and helmets with open visors in black contrasting with the all white fur trimmed outfit of the woman leading them to the shuttle. She is strikingly attractive and has the body of a very generously proportioned athlete. She is definitely on the alert for threats.

Screenshot 2024-10-19 183932.png (498.87 KiB) Viewed 1476 times

Skeet's wolf whistle is therefore entirely redundant and serves only to make her roll her eyes and mutter something under her breath. Then a strange visual effect occurs as a technician from the jump crew approaches her company. The Tech is of average height and build but is dwarfed by the blond and those she is escorting. Even allowing for her heels the average height of this group must be between six and six and a half feet.

[terrymixon]

I suggest all those who are jumping roll the bones (NB snake eyes = not good) and I'll catch up the narrative.

Just a straight 2d6 and you check the sheets for DMs?

[Tiglath]

I suggest all those who are jumping roll the bones (NB snake eyes = not good) and I'll catch up the narrative.

Just a straight 2d6 and you check the sheets for DMs?

Yes, but broadly with the stacked DMs everyone can add avoiding snake eyes is the basic test to pull off a "vanilla / safe" jump.

Of course those wishing to... "add some sprinkles"... can elect to push the envelope and accept a negative DM for a more impressive descent!

We're all at +12 (as per the "Walt menu" of loaded skills).

[2d6+8]=9+8=17


Garvin pulls off a little finesse on landing (-4 DM 12-4=8 above) but doesn't "overdo it" on what is his novice jump.

[terrymixon]

I suggest all those who are jumping roll the bones (NB snake eyes = not good) and I'll catch up the narrative.

Just a straight 2d6 and you check the sheets for DMs?

Yes, but broadly with the stacked DMs everyone can add avoiding snake eyes is the basic test to pull off a "vanilla / safe" jump.

Of course those wishing to... "add some sprinkles"... can elect to push the envelope and accept a negative DM for a more impressive descent!

We're all at +12 (as per the "Walt menu" of loaded skills).

[2d6+8]=9+8=17


Garvin pulls off a little finesse on landing (-4 DM 12-4=8 above) but doesn't "overdo it" on what is his novice jump.

Aster goes vanilla.



Bona goes for finesse.



Ciencia goes for finesse.



Roscoe goes for something altogether riskier. GM's choice.

[ateno]

Arkar jump roll [2d6+4]=6+4=10

I just added dex. but safe.

Arkar

[Tiglath]

For those not in peril on the sea...

The grav limo that dropped the "jumpers" at the down port continues a scenic/leisurely drive ever upwards through the arcology's upper architecture unit a finally attaining the front door of The Asphyxia Restaurant and Bar famed for its open “atmo-terraces”. The weather’s fine and clear so Collace’s atmosphere will be bearable outside and at altitude – no doubt all the more so with some “conditioning” from the restaurant’s upspire tech.

Security is present but discrete anyone armed is offered the opportunity to check their firearm with their coat but while this is not enforced those declining to surrender their "iron" gain an accompanying "attendant" mini grav 'bot. The staff are professional, helpful and discrete.

The hostess then leads you through the hotel’s atrium with its arching leviathan bone architecture and to the glasssteel airlocks leading to the terrace. The terrace is made entirely of glass and its edge artfully matches Collace’s horizon. Those who are at all vertiginous really shouldn’t look down as the sea churns kilometres below. You now feel what everyone here has paid for - the chill raw wind of the spire’s top and you need your oxygen immediately if you don’t cater for the thin atmosphere. The staff's assistance is welcome when your table is ready and you get your chance to “feel the breeze”. An attractive young hostess helps you don massive bulky furs (or floor length heat suits) and issues you with complimentary ultra lightweight oxygen "breathers" should you wish to use them.

The "sheepskin" clad hostess waits patiently as you try not to trip or asphyxiate on route to your table (either after landing or through the restaurant). The “tables” themselves are, in fact, solid circular glass benches with an energy field containing an atmosphere rising from their high backs. They vary in size seating between four to sixteen people. Finally, after a challenging walk of what was in reality only tens of metres, you gain the narrow entrance to the circular table and the warmth of the micro climate inside.

A small holo display is available for those wishing to monitor the progress of those performing re-entry.

Soon the professional sports class competitors arrive directly onto the glass terrace followed by less experienced jumpers who are often "intercepted" by skillfully piloted grav vehicles with catch nets.

The team all land smartly with Roscoe managing a flamboyant landing by partially unclipping his harness to deftly remove its lift and drive depositing him neatly on the terrace. He dexterously gathers his 'chute to applause from nearby tables.

As the last parachutists land the light begins to fade and dinner service begins. To those of a military background a cadre of what must be mercenary officers are visible at the bar being marshalled by a silver haired and cultured gent assisted by a pair of stunningly attractive blonde twins (who will likely catch their death dressed like that). He seems to be remonstrating with them about "coverage" and their lack thereof. Those mathematically inclined will note that the company's booth/table has room for them plus a few more.

[Thumper]

Walt pulls a Gainer with a halt-twist at altitude then focusses on sticking the landing (-4 for the flaire]:

He strides over to Bona and kisses her deeply!

Flaire: [2d6+8]=8+8=16

[terrymixon]

Walt pulls a Gainer with a halt-twist and sticks the landing (-4 for the flaire]:

He strides over to Bona and kisses her deeply!

Flaire: [2d6+8]=8+8=16

She's more than happy to return the kiss in kind.

[terrymixon]

The team all land smartly with Roscoe managing a flamboyant landing by partially unclipping his harness to deftly remove its lift and drive depositing him neatly on the terrace. He dexterously gathers his 'chute to applause from nearby tables.

Roscoe looks inordinately pleased with himself.

[Thumper]

Walt unfastens a pocket of the Rexwell Suit and removes a pouch. He reaches in and pulls out a lighter and several cigars bought specially for this moment. He offers them to all jumpers in their team and provides the light... the last of which he lights, puffs a couple times, then clenches between his teeth as he grabs Bona by the hand (her hand without the cigar) and makes his way over to the bar to introduce himself before proceeding to their table. He wants to meet Skeet first then the gent with two ladies.

[terrymixon]

The team all land smartly with Roscoe managing a flamboyant landing by partially unclipping his harness to deftly remove its lift and drive depositing him neatly on the terrace. He dexterously gathers his 'chute to applause from nearby tables.

Roscoe looks inordinately pleased with himself.

Did Jaelah jump? His next move depends on that.

[joertexas]

The team all land smartly with Roscoe managing a flamboyant landing by partially unclipping his harness to deftly remove its lift and drive depositing him neatly on the terrace. He dexterously gathers his 'chute to applause from nearby tables.

Roscoe looks inordinately pleased with himself.

Did Jaelah jump? His next move depends on that.

Yes, Jaelah jumps, too.

[terrymixon]

Roscoe looks inordinately pleased with himself.

Did Jaelah jump? His next move depends on that.

Yes, Jaelah jumps, too.

Roll dem bones! 2d6+12 for a vanilla jump. Only +8 for a little flair. Just +4 to follow your husband's lead.

[Tiglath]

Walt unfastens a pocket of the Rexwell Suit and removes a pouch. He reaches in and pulls out a lighter and several cigars bought specially for this moment. He offers them to all jumpers in their team and provides the light... the last of which he lights, puffs a couple times, then clenches between his teeth as he grabs Bona by the hand (her hand without the cigar) and makes his way over to the bar to introduce himself before proceeding to their table. He wants to meet Skeet first then the gent with two ladies.

Walt (and anyone else preferring "bar" over "immediate table") finds himself and Bona engulfed in the maelstrom of "4DC merc officers about to meet the public" at the bar whose staff are doing their very best to cope with entirely good natured bacchanalia which is beginning to gather momentum.

"...at least some clothes. And now you've added those furs it just looks like you're not wearing... anything at all... Oh, for goodnesssakes have some decorum!" The "silver fox" seems to be attempting to direct proceedings whilst handing out correctively urbane sarcasm. This last seems apparently more for his own artistic satisfaction than in any hope of finessing the collection of some twenty odd merc officers who seem to be very much already embarked on a "run ashore". Colonel Skeet, smoking a stogie of his own and drinking a pint of (apparently) champagne, gives his immediate attention to Duran as he approaches whilst simultaneously and adroitly fending off an apparently very well intentioned young lady. Duran drolly lists "Colonel, I have with no regret, made a few minor alterations to your most valued "suggestions" as to the evening's entertainment. The "G String Quartet" that you ordered I have replaced with people who actually play instruments. Hence the background "gratey squeaking noise" you so churlishly complained of earlier.... and alas Candii and Tiffanii can not grace us with their new burlesque due to the presence of our special guests... charming and "amusant" though those two young ladies may be... and however that tableau may have gratified your incessantly puerile sense of humour. I have also noted your apparently whimsical misinterpretation of "plus one" on the invitation by populating the party with numerous "ladies of rather expensively negotiable virtue" who are not only apparently "pre paid" but working to some productivity linked "bingo card" bonus scheme!" Skeet utterly fails to suppress a guffaw and comments "Would have been hilarious but then there must be some reason I pay you" then adding defensively "Oh, now the "bingo" was your nieces' idea... Uncle Duran". Duran is momentarily confounded stating "You know they're not..." but then allows himself a satisfied smile "Well, well - perhaps somehow and sometimes they do actually listen...".

Skeet takes a moment to consult a schedule on his comm "Right, Hyacinth, Michael - City Council and Chamber of Commerce". Two 4DC officers (apparently both Majors with pink background to their rank tabs) snap to attention as the senior grins and states with his harsh Gram accent "Dusty our our faces, but joyful is our mind, Colonel". Skeet laughs and hands them each a cigar "You know I always send you two to the best places".

Seeing Walt inbound he calls "Man with a cigar! He can join - nice landing!"

If Walt (or anyone else coming to the bar) hadn't noticed the Aslan males posted as security about the merc officers at the bar he now does. If he hasn't met Aslan warriors before they are merely intimidating. More than two meters plus of military trained muscle bulked predator should always be. This particular variety is apparently wearing "Imp Spec plus" soft armour with ballistic plates. They wear 4DC logos on their pauldrons but with sky blue silk "favours" bound about their massive biceps. They are armed with naginata and gaussrifle but the somehow very inferred threat of immediate and personal violent predation is near tangible.

[helvorn]

William not wanting to stain the honor of the Imperial Marines manages a fancy landing.



He gathers up Ciencia as she lands and takes a pair of cigars from Walt with a smile and hearty handshake. He heads over to the bar as well while escorting his wife on his arm. William offers Ciencia a cigar. "You could be Ciencia Larsson and no one would be the wiser if you like. You can be anyone you want to be after that landing!" His eyes do manage to take in the Aslan security.

[terrymixon]

William not wanting to stain the honor of the Imperial Marines manages a fancy landing.



He gathers up Ciencia as she lands and takes a pair of cigars from Walt with a smile and hearty handshake. He heads over to the bar as well while escorting his wife on his arm. William offers Ciencia a cigar. "You could be Ciencia Larsson and no one would be the wiser if you like. You can be anyone you want to be after that landing!" His eyes do manage to take in the Aslan security.

“That would make me happy.” She took the cigar, but seemed unsure of what to do with it.

“I feel overdressed,” she said, elbowing him and looking at the blonde twins with a grin. “I bet you wish I had an accommodating sister.”

[terrymixon]

When Jaelah landed, Roscoe hugs her. “I’m so proud of you.”