Captain Watts was slumped over the control desk of the shuttle. His head was pounding and he hadn't been able to check any hangover pills on the flight.
As he glanced out of the cockpit window, all he saw was inky blackness. How far were they into space already? He wasn't sure. His attitude last night had been to go out with style. He'd rounded up partying with his buddy Melvin Schrauwen. He was wealthy and connected, which meant they got VIP access into every club on Ganymede. He couldn't remember returning to Europa and he definitely couldn't remember doing the boarding call for the mission. He was too far gone.
Mission Control didn't care. They were sending him out here to die, he was sure of that. Well if he was going out on a ghost ship full of killer aliens or whatever it was, he was gonna make it a night to remember, which sadly he didn't. The ship had a pre-programmed destination, it was gonna fly if he did anything or didn't, so there was no escape or turning back. Time to face up to this godforsaken mission.
A rush of pain hit his throbbing temples as he remember he probably needed to go speak to the crew. He didn't recall any of them but he'd picked civilians thinking they'd cancel the mission. They hadn't.
He glanced over his shoulder and saw a sight to behold. His party buddy Melvin was comatose on the bridge sofa! The idiot had followed him on board. Probably didn't realise what was happening and now he was stuck on this mission. It was sick but Watts found it hilarious.
On the panel in front of him, a red light was bleeping. Somebody was trying to speak to him. He picked up the comm transmitter and waited. A familiar crotchety voice came back.
"Watts! You have broken another six or seven mission control directives and you've barely even left Europa!"
Oh great, they were just starting out. He took a breath and spoke back through the transmitter.
"Sorry Mike, won't let it happen again buddy. Literally won't!" There wouldn't be an again for it to happen in.
Michael Lindberg on the other side of the comms device was a stuck up officer who wanted badly to make rank but had failed where Watts had glided through. He was bitter and it was entertaining. Lindberg was a guy who followed protocol to the book. When Watts had come out telling him after the brief that the mission was allowed a civilian crew, it had almost broken his brain. He'd obviously gone to some authorities and confirmed that wasn't the case and was now trying to dress the Captain down, despite the fact that Watts was a superior.
He could feel the hiss of disapproval as Watts called him "Mike". He hated being called Mike.
"Well you've gone too far this time! Mission Control has ordered me to correct your mess! I now have a command of my own! I will be leaving shortly with a non-civilian crew. We are taking one of the Fusion X4 shuttles so we'll outrun that thing you're in and catch up to you before the Dalia boarding even begins."
Watts sighed. All he needed was to be stuck on a ghost ship with that jerk Lindberg.
"We shall do the mission by the book! Lindberg Out!"
All Watts could do was sigh. Were there any hangover meds on this thing? As he left to go to the rec room, he stopped and glanced at Melvin's comatose and drooling form one more time.
"Gonna have a worse time than me buddy!" Said Watts with a grin.
Mission Control @ 24/4/2015 13:21
Watts walked through to the rec area and found a young woman sitting down. She had a mysterious look. Could be fun!
"Hey there." Said Watts as smooth as possible with his hangover. "This is your Captain speaking, how may I assist you today?"
She smiled a faint smile and shook her head.
"You can't help me really. I don't think anybody can..." Her voice trailed off.
"Well let me know!" Said Watts. He didn't really have the energy for this today.
"Thanks." She said calmly. "You can call me Freyja. I'm used to it now."
Strange thing to say, thought Watts as he slumped on the sofa.
Mission Control @ 24/4/2015 13:29
A man walked through into the room. He was dark skinned and wore strange attire. He also had a p. cool hat.
Watts and Freyja looked up and started to speak but he was ahead of them.
"Tesimal Adetokunbo. I am on a journey. Are you also journeying?"
Watts rubbed his head.
"That's a bit of a mouthful."
Freyja smiled.
"I'm on a journey too!"
This prompted a smile from Tesimal.
"Excellent! We can journey together!"
Tesimal @ 24/4/2015 13:43
So tell me, Freyja, where you are from. Where has your journey start??
Mission Control @ 24/4/2015 13:55
Another young woman was milling about. There were a few things off about her though.
Firstly the fact that she was barely dressed. It was a little jarring to say the least. Watts might've enjoyed it more if he had the mental capacity to process all this nonsense.
Secondly, she had a name tattooed on her arm. It said "Eliza".
"That your name?" He asked curiously.
She didn't reply, merely glanced up and smiled and walked around some more.
Mission Control @ 24/4/2015 14:07
There was a loud groan from the bridge. Watts smirked. He'd been waiting for it.
"What is this noise??" Asked Tesimal with awe.
"This noise is Melvin. And Melvin just woke up to realise he's signed up for a mission wasted and can't get out of it."
Melvin burst into the room. He was stumbling a lot. His smart suit was a little worse for wear, and he was wearing sunglasses.
"What the hell is this? How did I..." He paused the audience looked on.
And Melvin Schrauwen proceeded to vomit all over the deck.
Melvin Schrauwen @ 24/4/2015 14:10
eeeergghh, someone clean this up
Tesimal @ 24/4/2015 14:12
Disgusting.
Is there servants here to clean this? Where are the servants??
Mission Control @ 24/4/2015 14:22
There was a resounding crash outside of the rec area. The assembled group ran over to look down. A very strangely dressed man had just rolled into a wall.
"Kip DeBarge is..."
"Space Shuttle."
He looked up at the crowd and launched himself at the stairs, running up them at a frantic pace. He jumped into the room and slid across the floor. Then paused at the pile of vomit.
"Nasty." He concluded.
Melvin Schrauwen @ 24/4/2015 14:41
Welcome Kip, my apologies but please step over the vomit. SHOULDN'T SOMEONE HAVE CLEANED THIS UP BY NOW?
What kind of ship is this?
VZ173 @ 24/4/2015 15:00
What is this noise??
Kip DeBarge @ 24/4/2015 15:00
DeBarge closes his eyes and imagines a quirky tune playing as he stares at the pile of muck on the ground.
Well. They told me leaving Callisto would be leaving a one-of-a-kind paradise, but it looks like it's already heavin on Europa here.
Kip plucks his sunglasses from the 'V' in his silk flowered shirt and throws them on his face. Wicked cool. Totally awesome.
Kip DeBarge. What's the gag, Higgins?
Mission Control @ 24/4/2015 15:10
The group was stood in stunned silence at Kip's entrance, to the point where nobody quite noticed the strangely dressed woman in red hovering in the background.
"There are bad omens on this ship."
She approached the central attraction of Melvin's vomit with a ghastly expression.
"You have banished the demons that plagued you!"
Melvin nodded. He'd still got some left to banish.
"There are bad omens on this ship." Agreed Eliza.
The woman was happy to have a captive audience.
"I go by Morwena. Be warned, for there is no easy ride ahead. Grave danger awaits us all. But destiny calls."
Watts yawned. Destiny was a bit slow today.
Mission Control @ 24/4/2015 15:31
There was another noise from the deck below, and some people went to go and check it out. Watts marched out ahead. Kip readied his fingers like a gun in case it was an alien invasion.
"Even more noise!!" Said Tesimal excitedly.
Down below there was a figure climbing out of one of the cargo pods. They seemed to be quite small.
Dusting herself down, the young girl looked up at the onlookers with a bright smile.
"It is only child?!" Said Tesimal in disbelief.
The girl in question was only a kid. She'd snuck on board in one of the cargo pods. But the ship was already mid-flight. This was something even Watts wasn't ready for.
"You can't be on here! How did you get on here kid? This is a dangerous mission!"
She frowned.
"Where else am I gonna be now? The ship's in space. Looks like there's nothin' you can do to stop me!"
Watts groaned. This was a disaster. This was something they wouldn't overlook in debrief if they even made it that far. Why hadn't he swept the ship first? Because he didn't give a shit. But he did now!
"Anyway you'd better get used to having me around I suppose. I'm Rin! Nice to meet ya!"
Tesimal @ 24/4/2015 15:37
A child!? What kind of ship is this? Why is it not kept in its nursery???
Kip DeBarge... I am happy to meet you. I am Tesimal Adetokunbo. You have style. I like this. Did I hear you say you are from Callisto? A land of wealth! You must be a man of good tastes and savvy!
VZ173 @ 24/4/2015 15:40
What the hell is this? A child!?
Mission Control @ 24/4/2015 15:44
There was even more hubbub. Rin put her hand over her mouth in shock.
"Oh I nearly forgot. Somebody else wanted to come on board too so I gave him a hand!"
The onlookers exchanged glances as Rin reached down into the cargo hold and helped out whatever it was. She picked it up and carried it back to the group, placing it on the floor as it crawled away.
It was an infant.
Watts face turned a new shade of pale. Tesimal was going crazy next to him screaming something about nursery but he couldn't focus. This wasn't just a kid. It was a goddamn baby.
He was screwed.
Melvin patted him firmly on the back.
"Looks like even more mess to clean up." He said with a weary grin.
The toddler crawled across the floor and gurgled up at Rin.
"Rin." Said Freyja in a calm voice. "Why did you think it'd be a good idea to bring a baby on board the ship?"
Rin looked put out.
"He wanted to come! He was crawling around outside and nobody was paying attention so I just helped him out a little that's all. He's my friend!"
The infant gurgled incoherently.
"His name is Aldo. I don't know why but that's what I'm calling him. He looks like an Aldo."
He looked like a baby. Watts went for a lie down. This was all too much.
In the distance one of the three RAMSES units on board the shuttle sprang to life, marched over and cleaned up the vomit.
"Ah good to have servant!" Said Tesimal approvingly as the android slunk back into hibernation.
Rin @ 24/4/2015 15:45
Kids rule, adults drool. Well, I guess Aldo does too. You know what I mean.
VZ173 @ 24/4/2015 15:48
I like this.
Morwena @ 24/4/2015 15:56
If a child and an infant have joined us on this journey maybe it'll bring luck and fortune?
I think fate has blessed us with this gift. The signs are there.
Melvin Schrauwen @ 24/4/2015 16:07
It's a good thing my drunken self agreed to this. I will be a great role model for the younger participants. #YOLO
Mission Control @ 24/4/2015 16:11
"I think they're cute!" Said a woman walking out of the ship's bathroom.
"Sorry, had to go!" She announced to the world.
Rin smiled.
"Thank you! What's your name?"
"I'm Cassie! I love kids! Do you watch much TV?"
Rin shook her head.
"Did one time but it's been ages since I really had a TV."
Cassie looked shocked.
"No TV? That's crazy!" She rubbed her head. This was a view of the world she found mind-blowing.
"Well maybe there's one aboard the ship and we can watch some together."
She slumped down in the sofa looking agitated then yawned.
"I'm tired. When does this thing reach Callisto?"
The group stood in silence for a moment.
"This ship is going somewhere dark and dangerous." Said Morwena slowly.
"NAH! Callisto is bright and wonderful! You're talkin' crazy bitch."
Morwena looked a bit put out.
"This military ship!" Said Tesimal helpfully. "Going on journey! But Callisto very nice! Must be wealth and prosperous."
Cassie was gobsmacked.
"But I need to go home!"
"There is no home now. Only the destination." Said Morwena.
Cassie looked up in horror and then sat down. She'd got on the wrong shuttle again.
Aldo @ 24/4/2015 16:15
:) :)
Mission Control @ 24/4/2015 16:26
The ship was suddenly rocked with a bout of turbulence. Watts who was slumped down in the bridge looked outside. They were pulling into a radiation storm of some sort. Looked like a bad one. Auto-pilot wouldn't get them through this well but he couldn't override it. Damnit!
"Electrical interference incoming! Hold onto your butts!" Shouted Watts.
Tesimal proceeded to grab his rear in a timely fashion.
The ship rocked and tossed and turned this way and that. Aldo started screaming, adding to the already overwhelming noise from the storm.
"Looks like even more mess to clean up." Said Eliza under the racket.
Cassie screamed out as the ship tumbled around. Watts looked back over at the wall. Electricity was coursing through the hull of the ship.
"NOBODY TOUCH THE HULL!" He screamed out. Who designed this thing?
There was a loud pop as one of the Ramses droids exploded, leaving a gooey mess on the floor. Those things had biological...bits....it didn't help to think about it.
"MAKE IT STOP!" Shouted Rin. But there was no stopping it. Another pop resulted in the second RAMSES droid exploding all over the walls and floor.
"These things are useless!" Said Watts damningly.
Beneath them Kip was dashing around, looking for way to quell the storm. Morwena had her eyes closed in a calm prayer. Melvin couldn't really stop himself and threw up once more.
A surge of electricity pulsed through the third and final RAMSES unit. However this one didn't pop. Instead it lifted its hibernated head upright as its eyes glowed into life. The storm subsided slowly as the RAMSES marched forth a little uneasily. It looked around at the astonished crew. These things were only supposed to start up on command and they were buggy to begin with.
It outstretched a hand, as if learning to do so for the first time, and then another. Finally it looked up, in what could almost be described as satisfaction.
"Hello." It spoke out soothingly.
Cassie @ 24/4/2015 16:28
look at that muthafuckin baby i could eat him up!
the names cassie bitches and one day THE WORLD WILL KNOW MY NAME AND MY TALENTS.
who the FUCK is this kip pussy? you be stealing my spotlight. i am the true star of the tv even if they cant see it yet!!
Tesimal @ 24/4/2015 16:34
Is this Ramses going to pop??? Abeg fly! Go away! Away!!
Get the servants in here!! Get the bot away!
Morwena @ 24/4/2015 16:40
I'm not too familiar with RAMSES units, but I get the sense that this could be best described as a miracle.
A lot of improbable events stacked after each other, first the children, now this electrical storm and this RAMSES unit. Fate is directly intervening, I can not be more convinced.
Destiny is calling for us.
Morwena @ 24/4/2015 16:44
Cassie @ 24/4/2015 23:28
look at that muthafuckin baby i could eat him up!
the names cassie bitches and one day THE WORLD WILL KNOW MY NAME AND MY TALENTS.
who the FUCK is this kip pussy? you be stealing my spotlight. i am the true star of the tv even if they cant see it yet!!
Demons seems to have filled your vocabulary with poison. Perhaps some liquor can help get them out of your system? You should probably ask Melvin.
Cassie @ 24/4/2015 16:45
i dont drink in front of the children.
Mission Control @ 24/4/2015 16:58
Amidst all of the chaos, another dark skinned man walked out. He was wearing sunglasses too.
"Hello everybody. My name's Elliot."
"Greetings Elliot. May fate favour you." Said Morwena solemnly.
Tesimal looked him up and down. He was very snappily dressed.
"You look like man of fine wealth! You wealth man yes?"
Elliot looked puzzled.
"Wealth is kind of overrated." He said despondently.
Tesimal looked confused. This response wasn't one he expected at all.
Rin @ 24/4/2015 17:03
That's bullshit. Anyone who thinks wealth is overrated has obviously never spent the night on the street. Wealth would be pretty rated if you ask me.
VZ173 @ 24/4/2015 17:04
You're talkin' crazy bitch.
RAMSES @ 24/4/2015 17:07
HELLO.
The surge giveth with one hand and taketh with the other. There are a few kinks to work out. If you will bear with me, I will be more than happy to assist you all once I'm a bit more stable.
CHECKING SYSTEMS:
[||||||||||||||||||||]
The RAMSES unit stumbled back to what remained of the other two units and began to sift through the disgusting debris of goop and circuits for anything salvagable.
Elliot @ 24/4/2015 17:13
Wealth can have unspeakable effects on the psyche and the soul. To me this is a fact
Mission Control @ 24/4/2015 17:15
With all the surrounding chaos, nobody had noticed another figure standing awkwardly in the doorway between the lower deck and the rec room.
It was a young woman. Her expression was one of concern and confusion, coupled with concentration. She began to speak but stopped herself.
"Can we help you?" Asked Morwena.
The woman said something in a language nobody was quite clear of and pointed towards the bridge window. When she realised this wasn't achieving anything, she sat down on the rec room sofa.
Aldo crawled across the floor gurgling and made a noise. The young lady smiled and spoke again. It was a single word.
"Jeong."
Aldo gurgled as she smiled. She looked over at the bridge window again, pointed and then pointed at the baby. But whatever she was trying to do was lost on the group.
She sat down looking nervous and uncomfortable once more.
Morwena @ 24/4/2015 17:26
Wealth is good if it's properly distributed, which in most cases it isn't.
If there wasn't such a strain between the different colonies perhaps everyone would be doing much better? Peace between the colonies is definitely something we all should strive for more.
But first destiny calls us elsewhere.
Morwena @ 24/4/2015 17:29
Hm, maybe the RAMSES unit can help us with communication difficulties?
Cassie @ 24/4/2015 17:32
my dad has so much money. its appealing.
Kip DeBarge @ 24/4/2015 17:33
Kip takes a deep breath after several minutes of pure chaos. He wipes his brow and leans against the wall, lowering his hands down to the waist of his tight pants. He looks towards Tesimal.
Callisto is my home. But my heart belongs to Miami, Florida, USA, North America, Earth.
Without a second of hesitation, Kip pushes off the wall and goes into a sprint across the room. Diving under the metallic structure of RAMSES, Kip slides across the floor and next to the pair of Rin and Aldo. Kneeling down, he puts his arms in front of them and looks to the rest of the crowd. He offers no explanation for what he just did.
Take a red, Cassie! I am no TV star. I am just one bad dude who is looking for some action besides hot babes and fast cars. I looked up to the stars and saw my calling. So I commandeered a shuttle and took to the deep unknown of outer space. No worries are needed, I deal with gunfire and explosions on a daily basis. You're in good hands with me here.
Freyja @ 24/4/2015 17:45
Tesimal @ 24/4/2015 18:43
So tell me, Freyja, where you are from. Where has your journey start??
Where am I from? Well that's a question I cannot answer. I can tell you that I grew up on Mars in an orphanage, but I am very glad to have fled that hellish abyss.
Mission Control @ 24/4/2015 17:52
Another passenger came in and sat down amid all the hubbub and noise. He flexed his arm in a strange way, looking around at everybody.
"Nobody stop on my account! Carry on!"
There was silence.
"I don't think anybody was stopping." Said Morwena.
"The whole thing is bugged anyway. Kayla Interplanetary is watching us right now. Like rats in cage man. Rats...in a cage."
He looked down at the confused kids.
"Kids you don't wanna be dealing with this shit. You're way too young. Go out into the fields and play. It's all just...one big joke. One big complex plot. The military know about it too."
Kip was stood stock still in the same pose he'd adopted at the end of his speech.
"What's this guy's problem? Probably that he, like the rest of you just can't plain handle the TRUTH! Well I speak truth and Kayla and the other corporates, just a bunch of liars man, I swear."
He closed his eyes and rubbed his arm.
"Cronkite. You can call me that. Don't like to use my name on THEIR ship but they already know. And they..."
He stopped and stared at the RAMSES which was currently sorting through the exploded messes.
"What the hell man? They have one of THOSE things on here? They're just like, there to watch our every action...document our movements so they can study us like rats. RATS!"
Cronkite closed his eyes again, but this time he appeared to have fallen asleep.
Melvin Schrauwen @ 24/4/2015 17:53
Cassie @ 24/4/2015 18:32
my dad has so much money. its appealing.
We have something in common.
Melvin Schrauwen @ 24/4/2015 17:55
Do we have a Hyperbaric Chamber on board? I need to get over this nasty hangover.
VZ173 @ 24/4/2015 18:02
Melvin Schrauwen @ 24/4/2015 15:55
Do we have a Hyperbaric Chamber on board? I need to get over this nasty hangover.
Well maybe there's one aboard the ship and we can watch some together. its appealing.
Mission Control @ 24/4/2015 18:09
A man in a long trenchcoat and Fedora walked into the room. He was smoking a cigarette which he held aloft between two fingers.
Turning to the assembled group he waved his hand.
"This mystery ain't gonna solve itself. Seems to me like we're getting caught up in the semantics and not focusing on the real problem at hand."
He turned to look at the children.
"Go on home kids. You don't wanna be apart of this crazy messed up deal. Do like Mr. Cronkite here says."
Snapping his fingers sharply under Cronkite's nose elicited no response.
"Out for the count. Since he's got all the intel we need, it's a damn shame. A real damn shame."
He took another drag of his cigarette and looked over at the kneeling and still Kip.
"What's with this guy? Putting on a pantomime or what?"
He turned dramatically for a second.
"Name's Francis. I got caught up in this mess for real but I'm about to see it through to the bitter end. Ain't nothin' can't be solved with enough elbow grease and the right attitude."
Francis flicked his cigarette butt downwards and walked over to the RAMSES.
"Hey cap'n. Your toys are a little defective here."
He walked over to Melvin and took him by the arm.
"Hey buddy, you look like you could use a drink or several. I know a little place around here that'll sort you out no problem."
Mission Control @ 24/4/2015 18:27
Another man walked into the room from downstairs. He was somewhat oddly dressed for the flight. He was wearing an extremely padded coat with a hat. He looked equipped for the cold but this ship was fairly temperate at the moment. In his mouth was a pipe, which he flicked around thoughtfully. There was a nervousness to him.
"Hello everybody. Name's Aippaq."
He looked out into the inky blackness of space that could be seen through the rec room windows and shuddered.
"Can't say I much like this at all. Never been up here before now..." He trailed off.
"Destiny called you." Said Morwena knowingly.
Aippaq looked thoughtful.
"Something like that..." He murmured as he looked out into space.
"I'm not gonna keep looking. Don't like to think my feet aren't touching the ground."
Francis @ 24/4/2015 18:54
From the moment I set foot on that flight deck, I was convinced that never before had a more ragtag crew ever been assembled. Some didn't even seem to know there was a mission at all.
A baby, a self-aware robot, and some kinda goddamned Floridian scoundrel headlined the pack. Things were just under way, but I could already feel in my bones that this would be a case to tell the boys down at the station about. They wouldn't believe their ears.
If I still worked there, of course. Sometimes you just gotta learn to keep your mouth shut, and I learned that the hard way. Luckily for me, there didn't seem to be a single authority figure commanding this ship. From what I'd seen, the little girl had more wits about her than that goddamned sorry excuse for a captain.
Oddly enough, from the looks I was getting, it seemed the crew could hear every word I was thinking. Curiouser and curiouser indeed.
Watts @ 24/4/2015 19:30
Will someone please shut that kid up? Melvin, good to see you're alive, buddy. Did ya happen to bring anything for a hangover?
Freyja @ 24/4/2015 19:44
Freyja eyes the little child named Aldo. "Poor thing," she thinks to herself, hopefully his life will turn out better than mine.
Melvin. You appear to spend more of your time drunk than you are lucid, don't you think that is unwise given our current mission?
Morwena @ 24/4/2015 21:41
Once we reach our destination I think we have to have someone watch over the kids.
Freyja, you seem to be good with kids. I would feel confident leaving them in your hands, or in the robot's care or with Watts?
The most importang thing is to not let them wander off on their own.
Gods be willed, if the signs don't lie, we won't run into too much trouble.
Freyja @ 24/4/2015 22:37
Morwena @ 25/4/2015 2:41
Once we reach our destination I think we have to have someone watch over the kids.
Freyja, you seem to be good with kids. I would feel confident leaving them in your hands, or in the robot's care or with Watts?
The most importang thing is to not let them wander off on their own.
Gods be willed, if the signs don't lie, we won't run into too much trouble.
If no one keeps an eye on the children, I fear for their safety... especially looking around at some of you.
Elliot @ 24/4/2015 23:09
What's that supposed to mean? Judging quickly, are we?
Lionel Cronkite @ 25/4/2015 0:03
*yawn*
HEY! KID! Yes you! What's your name? Red? Rem? Rin? Whatever, I don't care what it is. Why are you looking at me!? Did you touch my supplies while I slept? You won't touch my stuff if you know what's good for you! Got to have respect for your elders and respect a man's right to privacy.
That goes for you too Melvin. Don't trust your breath. Man smells like that is likely to take what's not his.
You people better keep that Kayla robot spy Ramakins, or whatever that hunk of metal goes by, away from me. Up to no good that Kayla. Probably sent that Toaster here to watch us, and then kill us!
Only one of yous I trust right now is Freyja. At least she knows better than to trust anyone. You never know who might be a spy. Shows good sense knowing that much.
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 0:20
Freyja @ 24/4/2015 20:44
Freyja eyes the little child named Aldo. "Poor thing," she thinks to herself, hopefully his life will turn out better than mine.
Melvin. You appear to spend more of your time drunk than you are lucid, don't you think that is unwise given our current mission?
When you are blessed with wealth, every day is a party. There are very rarely any consequences from my incessant partying, however it seems I went a little too far last night. Why I would agree to accompany Watts to this ship eludes me.
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 0:25
Watts @ 24/4/2015 20:30
Will someone please shut that kid up? Melvin, good to see you're alive, buddy. Did ya happen to bring anything for a hangover?
Happy to see you as well, bud. There are some gaps from last night I would love for you to fill in. Seems we may have some time to catch up, for now.
I spent millions to fix my bedroom up with the state of the art health wellness center, but that won't serve us today. Normally I would send a runner our to get me some medicine until I could return home, but that also does not seem like an option on this ship.
Still waiting on someone to clean up this vomit....Watts and I require some sustenance and medication.
*flashes gold coins*
*looks around*
Hello? Is there no one here to wait on us? I need to contact my father. He will gladly supply some servants for our journey. Perhaps we can pick them up at our next docking station.
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 0:27
Elliot @ 25/4/2015 0:09
What's that supposed to mean? Judging quickly, are we?
Smooth shades my man.
VZ173 @ 25/4/2015 0:43
Melvin Schrauwen @ 24/4/2015 22:27
Elliot @ 25/4/2015 0:09
What's that supposed to mean? Judging quickly, are we?
Smooth shades my man.
I think they're cute! You have style. To me this is a fact.
Elliot @ 25/4/2015 0:52
I thought he was calling me out for throwing shade... I made the glasses myself. I must protect myself from all the sun out here.
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 0:56
Elliot @ 25/4/2015 1:52
I thought he was calling me out for throwing shade... I made the glasses myself. I must protect myself from all the sun out here.
As I say, "never go anywhere without some shades"
I would love for you to make me a pair. I will pay top dollar for your best.
Morwena @ 25/4/2015 1:01
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 7:25
Still waiting on someone to clean up this vomit....Watts and I require some sustenance and medication.
I think we could ask the RAMES robot clean it up?
Some of you fine gentlemen are well in need of servants, it seems. Unless my sight fails me, there does not seem to be any aboard.
VZ173 @ 25/4/2015 1:25
Morwena @ 24/4/2015 23:01
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 7:25
Still waiting on someone to clean up this vomit....Watts and I require some sustenance and medication.
I think we could ask the RAMES robot clean it up?
You should probably ask Melvin.
Morwena @ 25/4/2015 1:35
You make an excellent point, dear.
Melvin, would you care to clean up your handy work? If left unchecked, it might erode the floor.
Does anyone here have a mop?
Francis @ 25/4/2015 1:49
Melvin was a particularly revolting man, smelling distinctly of vomit and cat piss. Or that mighta just been his cologne. Who can tell these days? But yet, despite his seemingly endless flaws, I was vaguely reminded me of myself when I was at his age. A hedonist through and through, but that was all before I met Starla. Starla, oh Starla, where had she gone? That, of course, was the mystery of the hour. Deep down in my heart, I just knew she was waiting on the Dalia, safe and sound as could be. At least that's what I chose to believe. I couldn't bare to even think of...
And there it was again. All those faces, staring back at me with such peculiar looks it was as if I had just dropped my drawers right there in the middle of the flight deck. Were they truly hearing all of this? No, that was preposterous. This case was already getting to me.
Melvin, my good man, would you happen to have any more spirits on you? I could go for a drink, no doubt.
Morwena @ 25/4/2015 2:07
Hm, this is a new level of thinking out loudly.
The gods bless my soul.
Aippaq @ 25/4/2015 2:14
H... the thought of where he was makes him a bit uneasy, but he gathers himself
Hello. Don't get me wrong, this was the right choice to be here. But I feel unprepared for this.
VZ173 @ 25/4/2015 2:25
Aippaq @ 25/4/2015 0:14
Hello. Don't get me wrong, this was the right choice to be here. But I feel unprepared for this.
Can we help you?
Aippaq @ 25/4/2015 2:40
I... I don't think so. I'm just not used to this feeling. Weightlessness. It's just... different. Forgive me.
Mission Control @ 25/4/2015 4:26
"What a puny crew!"
The voice belonged to a well built man standing in the doorway.
"None of you have got what it takes for a mission like this ya?"
Cronkite raised his finger.
"Who are you to tell me what I am or am not?!"
The man laughed.
"You all need to work out ya? Make some gainz! Even child has more muscle than you girlies!"
He flexed his muscle with a smirk.
"You are welcome to come to my on-board gym. There I will teach you not to be so puny! Just come see Frederic and together we shall make some gainz!"
RAMSES @ 25/4/2015 4:55
CHECKING SYSTEMS:
[||||||||||||||||||||] STABLE
The RAMSES unit rejoins the others, walking more steadily. Its illuminated eyes drifted over the motley crew. It opens its mouth to speak-
There. This unit should be working at full capacity now. With a couple of the tweaks I applied to the system perhaps more than full capacity. I also disabled the built in voice modulator so that I can speak directly to you. The folks on Ceres pump these things out, but it seems quality assurance is not a priority due to their mostly disposable nature. I've been blasting a weak distress beacon in hopes of drawing someone's attention. Seems that surge facilitated the next best thing. The electrical storm you passed through caused the units to emit a controller signal and I was able to take advantage of that and hijack this RAMSES.
I was on my way to the Dalia to try to contact my younger brother. Things took a turn and now I'm in a bad way. Real bad way. I ran the numbers, but I must have run too fast because my damned ship ran out of fuel and now I'm helplessly afloat around the Dalia. I'm as useless as a dead dick out here, but I can use this thing as a proxy body to assist you all. And I hope that when this mission is completed that it wouldn't be asking too much for you guys to drag my ass out of deep space and tow me back to Lunar Base, yeah?
But there's plenty of time for chit chat. I might as well get this over with. I do hope this thing provides a few more uses to the mission aside from being a janitor.
The RAMSES unit turns to stare at the drying sick left on the floor. You could sense the unit's shoulders slumping as it made its way over to clean it up.
Mission Control @ 25/4/2015 6:30
An old lady shuffled in, brushing her way past the RAMSES.
"Excuse me siree!" She said happily. "Oh you are a big lad!"
The RAMSES looked puzzled at this woman's analysis.
"This old broad looks a bit lost." Muttered Francis.
She sat down on the sofa and looked around happily.
"What time does the bus get to the station?"
Watts looked around. He really needed another confused person on the crew.
"This is not a bus. It's a space-ship on a mission to destiny." Replied Morwena helpfully.
The old lady looked shocked.
"My that is a mouthful! Carry on then!"
"What's your name lady?" Asked Rin boldly.
"Why if it isn't little Suzie! Come sit on Granny Matilda's knee! My you've gotten big."
Rin looked put out and slunk away with her nose wrinkled in disapproval.
"I think you're a bit confused..." Offered Freyja.
"Oh no dear, not me! Say, can you tell me what time the bus gets to the station?"
Mission Control @ 25/4/2015 7:24
Another man walked into the now crowded room. He was dressed quite well.
"I heard a lot of noise up here. Was trying to get some rest for the mission..."
He paused as his eyes drifted across the floor and rested on the children. Rin was playing peekaboo with Aldo who was laughing along.
"...I thought we were going out to the Dalia."
"We are going on this journey!" Said Tesimal helpfully.
The man's eyes widened.
"B-but these are just kids...they can't surely be coming along..."
Watts shrugged. "They snuck aboard and we can't change the flight destination. Mission Control got a little worried I might turn back I guess."
He looked horrified.
"You can't take them out there! It's not safe! You have to get a comm in to Mission Control immediately."
Watts shook his head. "They're not responding. Our best bet is to wait until Lindberg catches up with us. Much as I hate to say it, he might be able to override the auto-pilot and take us back."
The man sat down crestfallen, what a disaster.
"My name's Clifford, but I guess the mission's going to be called off now anyway so it won't matter."
Morwena shook her head solemnly.
"Destiny cannot be called off."
Clifford @ 25/4/2015 7:40
Thanks for letting on the ship Captain Watts!
Clifford @ 25/4/2015 7:45
And if it's Lindbergh we're waiting for I have to say I'm not too optimistic.
Mission Control @ 25/4/2015 9:08
Another young woman strutted out from...somewhere. She slumped down in the sofa without a word. Cassie walked over with a scowl.
"Bitch I was sittin' there!" She hissed.
The girl looked up with a scowl right back.
"Bitch what you talkin' bout? You don't own this shit!"
"Girl I was there first!" Said Cassie with a hiss.
Eliza looked up curiously at the tussle.
"Sometimes you just gotta learn to keep your mouth shut, and I learned that the hard way. " She said helpfully.
"Listen up!" Said the new arrival with a scowl. "This is Keisha y'all and soon as this thing puts down, I'm outta here! But in the meantime you need to learn some respect!"
Cassie sat down with a huff. This was turning into a terrible day.
Morwena @ 25/4/2015 9:47
Girls, I'm getting a sense that you could've been sailors in your past lives.
Gods be merciful, perhaps you socialize with a lot of fishermen on Europa?
Freyja @ 25/4/2015 10:12
It appears we not only have children, but feisty cats aboard this crew. Should prove interesting...
Keisha @ 25/4/2015 10:33
Look.
I'm just gonna tell you bitches this ONE TIME.
Don't start no shit, won't be no shit.
Keisha @ 25/4/2015 10:34
And who the FUCK let that damn baby on?
Morwena @ 25/4/2015 10:40
Fate seems to have brought the child on board.
Some of us are gonna have to take extra measures to keep an eye on the children.
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 10:49
Thank you RAMSES. I think you and I will be great friends
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 10:57
Keisha, you look familiar. Have we met at a club before?
Rin @ 25/4/2015 11:03
Nobody takes care of me except me.
Frederic @ 25/4/2015 11:15
Bonjour ladies and gentlemen. I know many of you have heard of me, yah? It is OK if you haven't, following the tabloids and celebrity gossip is a sign of weakness, yes? Anyway, my name is Frederic Gainz, owner of the galactic gym for the elite and wealthy. Have you ever heard of Kimmi Kardoushian? Her ass, I shaped, ya? I have you ever heard of Haris Pilton? Her sultry body, I perfected.
Not through surgery, or desire, but through PURE GAINZ.
I am hear to make sure this goes accordingly, ya? Perhaps I can give some key workout tips so that you commoners can make PURE GAINZ as like the elites ya? I'll tell you what money doesn't buy: effort and gainz. You must have the GAINZ mindset to get the physique you deserve ya?
Let's make sure this goes swimmingly, I have an appointment with Duane "The Boulder" Jensen on the 5th that I cannot miss.
Keisha @ 25/4/2015 11:17
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 11:57
Keisha, you look familiar. Have we met at a club before?
You don't look like you'd go to the clubs that I go to.
Keisha @ 25/4/2015 11:21
Rin @ 25/4/2015 12:03
Nobody takes care of me except me.
Good girl.
Take it from me. People may always say they will help you, they will care for you, or they will love you. But that fairytale shit doesn't work in the real world! People will only take care of you as long as they can...get something out of you. The sooner you learn that you can only rely on yourself, the better!
Matilda @ 25/4/2015 11:23
Well!
I'm so glad I could make it to the family reunion this year.
How are you all? It's been so long
Frederic @ 25/4/2015 11:27
Frederic scoffs at Melvin
Drinking is a sign of weakness, young idiot. It halts your gainz and kills your brainz. You remind me of a lot of rich and wealthy patrons I had before I changed their lives for the better. It is OK, you are not the only one throwing your potential away, so you can pride yourself on your pack mentality and you can always tell yourself that you are not alone. Howeer if you wish to make gainz and truly become an envy of your peers, here is my card.
I haven't given a card out in quite some time. All my patrons seek me, I do not seek patrons so the use of cards for me is just a waste. However, for you, I have made an exception yah? Make Gains with Gainz, friend.
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 11:44
Keisha @ 25/4/2015 12:17
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 11:57
Keisha, you look familiar. Have we met at a club before?
You don't look like you'd go to the clubs that I go to.
Your attitude will only make me try harder. Whats say we take a trip to some of the clubs on Ganymede and then hop over to Callisto for a few weeks of relaxation?
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 11:45
What the fuck are you on about Frederic? I have my own personal trainer on retainer all day every day.
Frederic @ 25/4/2015 11:47
Clearly he doesn't do the job.
Elliot @ 25/4/2015 11:48
Your legs seem extremely small comparared to the rest of your body, Frederic. Are you sure you have been training your body properly?
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 11:49
Frederic @ 25/4/2015 12:47
Clearly he doesn't do the job.
How would you know? This suit is perfectly tailored. I don't need to walk around showing off my body.
Exercise is more than big muscles. Core and cardio are more important.
When we need someone useless to carry some heavy stuff, I'll be sure to nominate you.
Matilda @ 25/4/2015 11:49
I haven't worked in 50 years!!!!!
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 11:50
I have never worked.
Frederic @ 25/4/2015 11:57
Elliot @ 25/4/2015 8:48
Your legs seem extremely small comparared to the rest of your body, Frederic. Are you sure you have been training your body properly?
Ah good question Elliot, I'm impressed that someone shows eagerness to learn of the routines so quickly. Calf muscles are largely genetically influenced ya? Aside from the rest of the body, your calfs dont make mad gainz as well as the rest of your body. You see... at your thigh, your Sartorius and your Vastus Lateralis make the mad gainz and support your body, but your calves have harsh limitations through the gainz process. I'm a professional gym instructor for the stars, believe me, I work out all facets of my body to the fullest extent. I simply cannot make anymore gainz to my calves, it is a sad genetic fact. Your leg workout is shown through your thigh muscles anyways, ya?
I wasn't referencing your physique when I mentioned that your gym instructor isn't helping you with your gainz, Melvin. I was referencing your clear poor lifestyle choices. If you had a true instructor, like myself for example, then you wouldn't drink. Ever. Making Gainz isn't completely about muscle. You must make Gainz on life aswell.
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 12:04
Life is a party....My trainer and I found a great balance between the two. I am not worried about my current lifestyle choices.
We all vomit from time to time, but I put most of the blame on Watts. Not sure what drinks he was buying, but I forget most of the night. ... Keisha are you sure I didn't see you LAST NIGHT?!
Watts, it was certainly a pleasure last night but people seem to be blurring the lines between my constant partying and being a complete wreck of a drunk. This does not usually happen...see what happens when it does? I offer to be a part of this crew.
Aghhh, I need a drink. Is there any way I can send a com to my father? He will pay to have some of that Earth Whiskey sent to our next destination. It's old and does not compare to the Ganymede swill, but it's a classic.
Mission Control @ 25/4/2015 12:04
A young lady was milling around downstairs in the bay area. She looked bored. She completely disregarded the crew and their current bickering.
"You are clearly wasted potential! Look at those puny muscles!" Said Frederic mockingly.
Freyja turned to look at the wandering girl with a touch of curiosity. Surely there couldn't be many more people on board.
"How many people are on this ship?" She asked Watts who was still trying to nurse a headache not made easier by baby laughter.
"Uhh. Twenty-one." He couldn't recall their names or faces but he'd roughly scrawled the number down so that was something.
She was the last recruit then.
"Why don't you come and join us?" Asked Freyja to the girl helpfully. She looked up passively.
"No thanks. You guys are kind of boring. No offense."
Freyja was taken aback. Behind her the argument was still raging.
"Well what's your name?"
"Misty." She said distantly.
"Nice to meet you Misty. I'm Freyja."
Misty nodded without looking. "How lovely for you."
Keisha @ 25/4/2015 12:11
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 12:44
Keisha @ 25/4/2015 12:17
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 11:57
Keisha, you look familiar. Have we met at a club before?
You don't look like you'd go to the clubs that I go to.
Your attitude will only make me try harder. Whats say we take a trip to some of the clubs on Ganymede and then hop over to Callisto for a few weeks of relaxation?
Callisto? No, fuck Callisto. I can't go back there.
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 12:16
You are not allowed back to Callisto? Or is this is a self imposed ban?
Frederic @ 25/4/2015 12:19
Ah Callisto, my home. It is likely a ban from the community, they are very strict with individuals who cannot adhere to their strict guidelines unless you have money of course. It is their way of shunning the devious individuals of the galaxy while still allowing those with money inside. Quite an interesting system, yah?
Did I hear you say you are from Callisto? Callisto is my home. We have something in common.
I am happy to meet you. I think fate has blessed us with this gift.
Cassie @ 25/4/2015 12:27
i am also from that fuck place called castillo. it was a very good place to me. some of my favorite tv shows were filmed in that very city!
Mission Control @ 25/4/2015 12:30
The comms device was flashing red again. Watts absent-mindedly picked it up as a voice came through the other end. Still Lindberg.
"Watts, we are about to depart. Within the hour we will approach your shuttle and board."
Watts felt a bit of relief. They were going to come and bring the ship home so they could all forget about this nonsense.
"Sure thing Mikey. Gonna bring us back home?" He loved doing that.
"No. The mission is pre-ordained. I don't have the authority to override it. We are merely going to provide the backup that your crew so sorely needs."
Watts fell into a stony silence. Lindberg wasn't bringing them home. He was just joining them. That meant they were going to have to all board Dalia. He looked around at the crowd. There was a somewhat heated debate still going on between Frederic and Melvin. However this debate set something else in motion.
Aldo looked up with a teary expression and burst out crying.
"Shit." Muttered Watts under his breath. Lindberg would surely hear that. He'd be reported before he even had a chance to damage control the situation. He scrunched up his eyes and waited for the outburst.
"I-Is there an infant aboard that ship?!" Came the expected voice.
Watts licked his lips and spoke quickly. "Could be. Haven't really checked. Err gotta go. There's some pressing business to attend to here. See you soon pal!"
With a click that wasn't quite fast enough, he shut down the comms device.
He turned around to his crew.
"The bad news is we're gonna have company. The worse news is we're all doing the mission together."
Keisha @ 25/4/2015 12:30
Melvin Schrauwen @ 25/4/2015 13:16
You are not allowed back to Callisto? Or is this is a self imposed ban?
Callisto means nothing to me anymore. I could return there and make so many people so happy. But let's just say that there are some people there. And if I never see them again, it would make me happiest of all.
Frederic @ 25/4/2015 13:19
Ah Callisto, my home. It is likely a ban from the community, they are very strict with individuals who cannot adhere to their strict guidelines unless you have money of course. It is their way of shunning the devious individuals of the galaxy while still allowing those with money inside. Quite an interesting system, yah?
Oh yes, Callisto and its worship of money. I can't stand those people. There is so much more to life than how much money you have, how much power you can wield, and how many people you can buy. Fuck that. Life is about a lot more than just that.
Keisha @ 25/4/2015 12:32
VZ173 @ 25/4/2015 13:25
Did I hear you say you are from Callisto? Callisto is my home. We have something in common.
I am happy to meet you. I think fate has blessed us with this gift.
Fate is a myth. The only "fate" that exists in this universe is whatever we make for ourselves.
Freyja @ 25/4/2015 12:35
More strangers joining our already rowdy crew? Surely this is unwise.
Matilda @ 25/4/2015 12:40
Strangers?? I know it's been a while but not THAT long...
Ohhhh my
Freyja @ 25/4/2015 12:42
Is anyone fond of the elderly, I don't deal well with parental figures.
Someone should keep an eye on Matilda here, she could get lost.
Frederic @ 25/4/2015 12:51
VZ173 @ 25/4/2015 9:25
Did I hear you say you are from Callisto? Callisto is my home. We have something in common.
I am happy to meet you. I think fate has blessed us with this gift.
Likewise Eliza. I assume that is your name of course, what's the story with the tattoo?
VZ173 @ 25/4/2015 12:56
Keisha @ 25/4/2015 10:32
VZ173 @ 25/4/2015 13:25
Did I hear you say you are from Callisto? Callisto is my home. We have something in common.
I am happy to meet you. I think fate has blessed us with this gift.
Fate is a myth. The only "fate" that exists in this universe is whatever we make for ourselves.
What's that supposed to mean? Destiny is calling us. It's just... different. To me this is a fact. Forgive me.
Seems to me like we're getting caught up in the semantics and not focusing on the real problem at hand. I need to get over this nasty hangover.
Matilda @ 25/4/2015 13:01
Freyja @ 25/4/2015 11:42
Is anyone fond of the elderly, I don't deal well with parental figures.
Someone should keep an eye on Matilda here, she could get lost.
ILL HAVE YOU KNOW I went on safaris when I was a lil gal!!
This ole broad does not get lost
VZ173 @ 25/4/2015 13:04
Frederic @ 25/4/2015 10:51
VZ173 @ 25/4/2015 9:25
Did I hear you say you are from Callisto? Callisto is my home. We have something in common.
I am happy to meet you. I think fate has blessed us with this gift.
Likewise Eliza. I assume that is your name of course, what's the story with the tattoo?
You can call me that. Nice to meet ya!
There are very rarely any consequences from my incessant partying, however it seems I went a little too far last night. You should probably ask Melvin. He's my friend!
Cassie @ 25/4/2015 13:13
also just so all of you dicks knows i always get what i want. ya girl cassie speaks and everyone else listens GOT IT? good.
wait until i get the fuckers that told me i could never be a star on tv. THEYLL SEE. YOULL ALL SEE!!
Morwena @ 25/4/2015 13:15
Keisha @ 25/4/2015 19:32
Fate is a myth. The only "fate" that exists in this universe is whatever we make for ourselves.
Fate intervenes in our lives on a daily basis, it's not visible to the naked eye but if you open your senses to the nature around you, you too will see it in it's purest form.
Either way, looks like there's more people coming.
Morwena @ 25/4/2015 13:19
Freyja @ 25/4/2015 19:42
Is anyone fond of the elderly, I don't deal well with parental figures.
Someone should keep an eye on Matilda here, she could get lost.
There's children to keep eyes on too.
Perhaps some of the people who will join us shortly are people of authority, thus they'll be of great help.
So I see that many of you are from Callisto, that certainly explains this obsession with money and beauty.
Matilda @ 25/4/2015 13:30
Morwena @ 25/4/2015 12:15
Keisha @ 25/4/2015 19:32
Fate is a myth. The only "fate" that exists in this universe is whatever we make for ourselves.
Fate intervenes in our lives on a daily basis, it's not visible to the naked eye but if you open your senses to the nature around you, you too will see it in it's purest form.
Either way, looks like there's more people coming.
did you say open your eyes? ive been losing my sight for the last 5 years... i wish i could!!
Morwena @ 25/4/2015 13:42
When one sense is declining in strength, another one usually steps in to fill in.
Maybe this isn't the time or the place, but once this mission is done I think I can talk to my church and see if I can get you a pair of spectacles to improve your vision.
Unless someone here has a pair to lend the old lady?
Freyja @ 25/4/2015 13:43
Morwena @ 25/4/2015 18:42
When one sense is declining in strength, another one usually steps in to fill in.
Maybe this isn't the time or the place, but once this mission is done I think I can talk to my church and see if I can get you a pair of spectacles to improve your vision.
Unless someone here has a pair to lend the old lady?
I've given up on doing that stuff. And my browser crashed when I had the Phase 1 stuff, so here's what I have.
Phase 2
Spoiler
+
The group had deliberated for long enough. It was time to reach a decision. As the flames lapped up into the lower decks, there was nervousness all around. A heated debate had kicked off that would result in a small portion being burnt to a fiery hell. There was no making a decision like this lightly.
The group stood around the table with the suits, all equipping their air filtration collars just in case something went wrong.
"Can't we just use these?" Suggested Elliot hopefully.
Percy shook her head. "Nah these things won't help. They filter atmosphere. There's no atmosphere out there. Only inside the Dalia."
There was a show of despondency at this announcement.
"Tired of talk. Action now." Said Da Shuang solemnly.
"Alrighty. I'm callin' out the nominations for Leader." Said Francis looking at a scribbled note-sheet everybody had put together.
"Seems pretty unanimous. The first leader will be....Dain."
Dain looked around at the crew as he lifted the key and opened his part of the chest. He took out a medikit and a laser pistol, carefully placing them into his pack.
"I'll use these only when necessary."
There was a look around the crew that suggested they'd rather it never be necessary, but as the heat was now rising, they were expectant of more disasters on the horizon.
"Second....." Said Francis chewing on the remains of a cigarette.
"Second is....Percy."
Percy rushed over to the chest and grabbed her share of the two things with a smile.
"Thanks guys! I won't let us down!"
"How about we get to the meat." Said Edom with a snarl. "Nobody gives two shits about the leader vote."
There were further murmurs amongst the crew.
"Alrighty. By consensus the following nine crew members don't get to have a suit..."
Glances were exchanged furtively as the names were slowly read out.
"The crew has deemed the captains should go down with their ships. Watts and Lindberg have to stay."
Lindberg gave a salute, though the bobbing of his adam's apple showed fear through his military stance.
"You're kidding me right? There's no way I'm burning alive on this thing!" Watts grumbled.
Percy and Dain walked forward, laser pistols ready.
"We want this to go as smoothly as necessary. People are bound to be upset, but we will start firing if we have to."
Watts stood his ground miserably.
"Next names. Clifford."
Clifford muttered something about keeping a brotha down as he backed into the corner.
"Veleriya."
"This is an affront to Venera and her fine people!" She said with a hiss.
"Misty."
"HAHAHAHAHAHA!" Shouted Misty hysterically as she darted across the room to the corner.
"Jeong."
Jeong looked puzzled and stood, making comments that nobody understood. She pointed at the suits before being ushered to the corner by the new leaders.
"Elliot."
Elliot's face fell beneath his shades. "This is karma for a wasted life." He said sadly.
"Portia."
Portia didn't want to be ushered, and resigned herself to a confident march.
"And last but not least..."
"Paige."
Paige had a look of horror on her face as she walked to the corner. She was watching the pointed guns intently.
"Everybody else grab a suit. We have no time." Said Dain as the rest rushed to grab their suits.
———
The group were all suited and ready by the airlock.
"We'll create a barrier down there so you don't suffocate. At the rate this thing is burning up, it'll probably be the exploding fuel supply that does it..." Said Percy, before uttering a final "Sorry."
"A comforting thought." Said Portia with a smile.
Percy, Melvin, Izza and Dain were the last to rush down the stairs.
"Ugh!" There was a cry of anguish. Three of the last to depart glanced over at Izza. She was holding her suit aloft, but not following.
"Come on! We have to leave now!" Insisted Dain.
"Yeah, that'd be a nice idea. Maybe you can help me out of here first?"
They glanced over, only to find one of Izza's bionic appendages was stuck in between the stairs between decks.
Percy and Dain ran over, grabbing her and pulling, but it was no use.
"We can't stay any longer!" Shouted Dain.
Below, an already suited Freyja looked up at the scene.
"Oh my god...." She said, hand instinctively reaching up to her visor in shock.
The commotion had stirred the left behind crew. Watts was first to rush down, offering his assistance in pulling Izza free too. She struggled and winced in pain as they pulled and pulled.
"There's no...ugh! There's no...there's no point! Just....just somebody take the suit and go. I'm done."
"It's now or never!" Shouted Dain.
Watts glanced up at the room above and the fleeing figures below before grabbing Izza's suit gratefully and darting down the stairs. He was the last to leave the airlock. Izza looked on in solemn silence as the doors to the ship closed for a final time.
"Clear the deck!" Shouted Dain through his internal suit speaker. The thirty two suited figures all darted across the inky black dock as the shuttle creaked and rumbled in an ominous way.
"They not dying! Surely can survive this!" Said Tesimal nervously.
"May their spirits forever rest..." Began Morwena before the fireball sprung upwards from the hull of shuttle, licking the dock roof. It erupted around the rim of the ship before it burst outwards in a spectacular explosion. Debris flew in all directions, leaving the remnants of the ship as mere rubble on the docking bay floor.
The remaining survivors pulled themselves upwards in disbelief.
In silent mourning, the remaining passengers shuffled towards the internal Dalia airlock where they could finally begin their mission. Morwena looked back over the the burnt out wreckage of the exploded shuttle and finished her prayer.
——
The crew had fallen into a sombre silence as the last of them entered the internal Dalia airlock. One by one they removed their suits.
"Might as well." Percy provided. "They're gonna slow us down and we have our collars."
Cronkite touched the Kayla logo on his collar with a scowl. "For whatever good they are."
"Well...we are breathing." Offered up Felicity quietly.
"These came with the collars. You have to keep them charged or the filtration dies. There's no safe atmosphere on board here according to the pre-mission logs." Said Dain helpfully, handing out a bunch of battery cells.
"There's hardly any here!" Protested Arissa.
"It's all we could recover. There's nothing we can do about that." Muttered Dain miserably.
"We're all going to die out here." Said Watts staring back at the airlock door. He'd come so close...
"We must be positive! Only start of our journey!" Said Tesimal with a smile.
Da Shuang was sniffing the air curiously.
"Bad signs afoot. Danger lurking."
Sam glanced around nervously before looking up and catching it just in time.
"WATCH OUT!" He yelled out as the orange slitted eye widened.
There was an inhuman shriek and a motion through the air. A gigantic red creature landed down on the ground with a resounding thud.
"RUN!" Shouted Melvin.
The group darted away from the beast. It was about the size of a lion, but its skin was a smooth red. It had lizard-like orange eyes that were locked on. When it opened its mouth, a set of thin, razor-like fangs could be seen. In between them, a large proboscis like tongue was flailing about hungrily.
As the group fled, another of the beasts fell down and landed with a thud.
The next few minutes were blur of shrieks, screams and general disarray.
——
When the group were finally able to catch their breath, they were stood in a corridor. Both of the exits were sealed off, but there was a stairwell leading up to the deck above.
"Well...looks like we've only got one way to go." Said Percy with a nod. She turned and looked back to the group. All sixteen of them.
"The rest didn't make it." Said Edom bluntly.
"Nonsense! I'm sure they're having a fantastic adventure right as we speak!" Insisted O'Hara cheerily.
Rin was glancing around the room. Next to her, a crawling Aldo seemed happy enough with his collar fitted firmly.
Kip danced across the room, doing somersaults onto the stairs.
"Now is the time for action!" He declared to the sombre group who were laying around.
Spoiler
+
Layout:
Description:
Corridor with a flight of stairs leading upwards to the above deck.
Exits:
South (Locked)
West (Locked)
Up
Players (16):
Aldo
Anna
Arissa
Cassie
Cronkite
Edom
Eliza
Francis
Frederic
Kip
Melvin
O'Hara
Percy
Rin
Sam
Watts
Phase 3
Spoiler
+
Kip did a backflip onto the stairs, and then did a second flip, landing two stairs up. He proceeded to do this noisily for every couple of steps along the way. Finally he ascended to the top floor and back-flipped into the room excitedly. Landing with a pose, he looked around.
The room beyond was relatively dull. It was wide, and with a load of paperwork scattered on desks around the room. It was frankly a bit of a mess.
Rin clambered up after him as the rest of the group followed.
"Hope somebody can read all this." She said with a frown. Aldo clapped happily.
——
The group noticed as their air filtration devices began to flicker to red. This meant they'd need to start keeping tabs on their usage from now on.
Spoiler
+
Layout:
[img]http://i.imgur.com/LzkS3b7.png[/img[
Description:
Wide room. Littered with desks covered in paper-work. Stairwell leading downwards. An orange shuttle pod is docked to the North.
Actions:
Players may choose to search the paperwork in the room.
Exits:
South
West
Down
Orange Shuttle (Inactive)
Players (16):
Aldo
Anna
Arissa
Cassie
Cronkite
Edom
Eliza
Francis
Frederic
Kip
Melvin
O'Hara
Percy
Rin
Sam
Watts
Rin approached the Southern airlock carefully. There were papers stacked all around it. She'd seen enough of those for a while. With a somersault, she jumped up and hit the release.
The door sprang open as Rin dashed through into the hazily lit room beyond.
The sign on the wall was made even creepier by the lack of decent lighting. Emergency power was causing havoc to the appearance of these creepy rooms. It mentioned something about radiation. Rin was smart enough to know what radiation was, even at her age. Her eyes traced down the wall to the pipe which seemed to be leaking a luminous green material.
And then she shrieked. It was hard to act tough in moments like this.
The group dashed in and watched the child get doused in the ominous green sludge as the pipe had burst forth. Rin toppled backwards when the pipe stopped, laying on the floor silently.
Aldo crept over and tugged at her with a sorrowful expression.
"Little girl are you okay?" Asked Frederic.
Rin sat upright, tried to stand and then fell again before immediately throwing up on the floor.
"I'd say that's a no..." Said Sam.
Spoiler
+
Layout:
Description:
Small room. There's a leak in the wall where something is seeping through. A battered sign warns of radioactive material.
Actions:
Players may choose to re-arm the trap.
Exits:
North
South
Players (16):
Aldo
Anna
Arissa
Cassie
Cronkite
Edom
Eliza
Francis
Frederic
Kip
Melvin
O'Hara
Percy
Rin
Sam
Watts
Phase 5
Spoiler
+
Rin approached the Southern exit with a great deal more caution, looking back at the radioactive material nervously before opening the door release.
The room beyond was strange. The walls were lined with some kind of luminous blue light which was still fairly bright despite the ship's power situation.
On the wall was a device which looked like a syringe attached to some mechanism. Rin looked queasily at the chemical inside the syringe and the pointy needle.
"Doesn't seem to be a problem. Seems like it's just a dumb experiment." Announced Francis who was sorting through yet more paperwork.
The paperwork was just discussing the experiment, but the science was kind of advanced. Percy scanned it thoughtfully and shrugged.
"No idea. This ain't engineering!" She said helpfully.
One thing came across from the notes, and that was the experiment's title. It simply read "pain transfer".
——
Aldo looked up curiously as something overhead clicked into action. What was that? He hoped it wasn't another boo-boo.
The mechanism descended from the ceiling with a whoosh and it pointed right at him.
"Aldo look out..." Said Rin pleadingly. Aldo just stood like a deer in headlights.
"ALDO!" Came the shout amidst the flurry of gunshot.
Aldo slowly fell to the floor, blood pouring from his tiny body. With a thud, he fell hard and closed his eyes with a quiet groan.
The turret overhead, which had appeared out of nowhere, just as quickly ascended into the ceiling.
Spoiler
+
Layout:
C-3904
Description:
A device is mounted against the dimly lit blue walls. It has a syringe attached. Some research papers next to it suggest this was a science project. The heading merely states "pain transfer". An elevator is blinking towards the West of the room. It leads downwards.
Actions:
A player may opt to use the syringe.
Exits:
North
South
West
Down
Players (16):
Aldo
Anna
Arissa
Cassie
Cronkite
Edom
Eliza
Francis
Frederic
Kip
Melvin
O'Hara
Percy
Rin
Sam
Phase 6
Spoiler
+
Francis pressed the elevator release and rode down to the next level. The group would surely follow, but they were a little anxious.
He stepped out into a cold metal room that was full of sealed lockers. One of the lockers was open but empty. He also noticed the same elevator he'd just taken could be sent down another floor.
"What have we..." He stopped suddenly when he realised there was company.
Laying in the middle of the floor, face down was a familiar face, or at least familiar back of the head. It was Izza.
"There's no way..." He muttered as he crept over and shook her with his foot.
"Who's there...?" Mumbled Izza looking upwards.
"How did you...." Began Francis before being cut off again by the sound of the elevator. The rest of the group milled in.
"Izza...is that you?" Said Percy in disbelief.
Frederic stood and smirked, shaking his head. How bizarre. However the smirk was short-lived.
"Wh-what...what...." He began, pointing frantically.
The group turned to look at the child stood near the Southern exit. It was smiling up at them gleefully.
"What the hell is that?!" Shouted Sam as the thing began to slowly approach, still smiling.
The child was bright red all over, with human features save for the fact it had no ears. Occasionally, purple sparks would dance around its body as it moved. It also hovered a few inches off the floor. As it approached, the group realised it was levitating and defying gravity.
"Don't be afraid. I used to be afraid too...but that will only hold you back from what you want to see." Said the child in a haunting voice.
The group began to back away as the child hovered across the floor. It was aiming itself at Francis determinedly.
"Kid I don't know who or...what you are...but I got nothin' for ya!" Said Francis exasperatedly.
The red child looked up at Francis with a smile. It was close enough for Francis to feel its breath, but the child was not in fact breathing.
"No...I don't think you do." It said in the same melodic and haunting way, before lifting its hand gently and touching Francis' forehead.
The touch was gentle, but as if a switch had been turned off, Francis fell to the floor with a resounding thud, unconscious.
"We can play later." Said the child, turning to look at the horrified group.
And with that there was a flash of purple electricity, a whooshing sound, and the child had disappeared from sight.
------
Eliza stepped over to Cassie who was leaning silently against a wall. With a swift motion, she grabbed hold of Cassie's arms. The normally sassy but recently quiet lady suddenly let out a shrill scream as sparks flew from her hands.
When the sparks had stopped flying, Eliza walked away calmly. Cassie fell to the floor, unable to stand properly.
"Wh-What the hell bitch?!" Screamed Cassie.
Spoiler
+
Layout:
Description:
Tall room with an elevator. The rooms are lined with lockers. A single locker is open but empty.
Exits:
North
East
South
West
Up
Down
Players (16):
Anna
Arissa
Cassie
Cronkite
Edom
Eliza
Francis
Frederic
Izza
Kip
Melvin
O'Hara
Percy
Rin
Sam
Watts
