Happy New Year!!!

[Hvalreki]

Solomon Tukera

Isaac C. Heinlein (Ike), security, mercenary

Waiting in the room with the others, Ike saw Soloman Tukera, his old service buddy from the Karin missions. He was talking to an administrator.

“Sol! How have you been? Involved in all this? What’s the latest?”

Sol's eyes narrow and bore into Ike with the full fury of a Imperial noble gentleman officer. He booms out in a withering command voice well known for melting Marine Privates.

"That's Force Commander Tukera to you brig-rat" His staff and those nearby are stunned at the sudden outburst and look on in silence.

He holds the moment uncomfortably and finally bursts into laughter and rushes to embrace his old comrade in arms. "Ike you 'ol wardog, look at you. I can't believe you're here in front of me. Last time I saw you was leaving Karin after Clean Sweep."


The two former Marines spend the next few minutes catching up on current events and Sol turns to their current business.

"Right now we're trying to get into the family meeting. There is a ship full of LSP on their way here offering help in the investigation. We need to get the jump on them and persuade the families that working with Maas on this investigation and clean up is in their better interests.

You're security, can you get us past the door? "Odo here should be able to talk our way in after we get past the security cordon. He's the best salesman I've ever met. He somehow convinced me to join him at Maas and leave Glisten for all this." he gestures around at the rough hewn cavern walls of Koneig's Rock.

[Grognardsw]

Isaac C. Heinlein (Ike), security, mercenary

Ike was momentarily alarmed at Sol's feigned outburst, then relieved.

"Well Sir Force Commander Tukera, where is the ring to kiss?" he replied with a smile.

"Well with all those family members, getting in may be above my pay grade but I'll try."

Ike paused for a moment... seemingly thinking... then approached the KRPA guards. He held up his ID and said confidently: "Isaac Heinlein, for the Brotherhood, here with Sir Tukera on business that requires us inside."

Skill roll [2d6]=6
In case a roll is needed, not sure what the modifier would be.

[BackworldTraveller]

Odo heads to the door - and despite a very cogent argument is quite clearly rebuffed.
I'm sorry but if we let one group in, we let all in and we have no intention of waiting.

The discussion does, however, yield the information that Giigimka is being blamed for exacerbating the situation! Apparently, inviting Phoenix is seen as having been inflammatory and, somehow, the pirate raid is blamed on the diversion of LSP security resources to extra security for Sir Horvath Ulorhua-Mann!

The other main designated culprit seems to the the Vargr who have control of the gravitics systems. Oddly, they have no representatives in the crowd outside - perhaps a safety-precaution!

The delegates seem to be casting aspersions regarding who might have enabled the attackers to access the KRPA's defence systems, powerplant and computers. Each group is blaming the other.

Outside the event, the disagreements of the leaders seem to have seeped into their escorts and aides trapped outside. The Crozats appear to have been somewhat side-lined as their leader is in the hospital and the main aide has stepped into the space at the table, leaving those outside leaderless. Other families have started to become rather clannish and disorganised as the pressures and issues pull their usual unity to pieces rather than huddling together in the face of a common enemy. As outsiders, the party are in danger of becoming excluded from everyone, or worse, getting seen as part of the problem!

The Andersons seem to back shutting the port until the launchers are repaired - an action that would stop the Hotel economy. With the launcher down, the Mining interests need the powerplant to be fixed. With the attack having been (at least in part) an inside job, no-one is looking to trust anyone.

n.b. See Koenig's Rock - Politics for families

---

Phoenix is unaware of the activities at the council meeting. She is being given a tour of the Hospital by enthusiastic staff - and the patients are being given impromptu, small scale, concerts in return. The majority of patients are there for Births or Deaths - with a couple of accident victims. Of those injured during the raid, only Emeline Crozat, and the person wounded by a ricochet when an idiot fired a gun, have been detained for further observation. A couple of fans have managed to sneak in. One of the Shirkisha clan - who wants to get a proper interview for their news feed - is there. His partner is heavily pregnant, and clearly in the throws of the early stages of labour! This diversion seems to be causing a family argument.

---

The tour of the exterior scrapyards doesn't yield much hopes of a like-for-like fix. Nehnya is at something of a dead-end on that plan. She is musing on this topic when she arrives at the Vargr Salvage Yard - only noticing the mob outside as she gets quite close.

The building is closed, and shuttered. There is no sign of any KRPA (or other) security in the square itself.

Send that mangy traitor out! doesn't bode well for the occupants.


n.b. The square is at the east end of the cavern.

[ateno]

At the hospital I will tell the agent for the Shirkisha clan ; "I would be happy to do a interview, please contact my agent and tell him that I approved while at the hospital, I'm to busy now, thank you."

With that Phoenix will excuse herself and do one final song and leave.

She will grip text her entire team.

"Its been quite a full 24 hours, should we get together and so a group meeting and plan our next step?. Dinner, tonighr, my hotel, 630p? Let me know, i'm open for anything."/

Phoenix

[cybersavant]

She will grip text her entire team.
"Its been quite a full 24 hours, should we get together and so a group meeting and plan our next step?. Dinner, tonighr, my hotel, 630p? Let me know, i'm open for anything."/
Phoenix

Elzelil Rickert Andras stops packing the equipment to answer.

Just finishing with the equipment. Will meet when done.

[Grognardsw]

"It looks like I can't get in either," Ike said to Sol, after the KRPA guards denied access. "I guess we'll have to wait."

[BackworldTraveller]

At the hospital I will tell the agent for the Shirkisha clan ; "I would be happy to do a interview, please contact my agent and tell him that I approved while at the hospital, I'm to busy now, thank you."

With that Phoenix will excuse herself and do one final song and leave.

She will grip text her entire team.

"Its been quite a full 24 hours, should we get together and so a group meeting and plan our next step?. Dinner, tonight, my hotel, 630p? Let me know, I'm open for anything."

Phoenix

There are a series of answers, all affirmative, except for Lurch who is still in the Hospital under slow drug (and Andras who can answer for himself!).

As they arrive at the lift by the Belt Palace, they find Andras returning from the Stage clean-up.

Helen finds herself having to look tough as Phoenix heads back from the lift by the Belt Palace to the Majestic Hotel - people keep recognising Phoenix and expressing their apologies for the gravity failure - and wondering if she'll be singing here again. Some want autographs.

By the Majestic, however, there don't seem to be many people - and there are distant voices that seem ugly and angry.

Norega pings a message Interview a good idea. Giigimka wants to talk about playing the second half of the concert - We could plead force-majeure? I'm in the Pyrites Bar on the 3rd floor.

[BackworldTraveller]

"It looks like I can't get in either," Ike said to Sol, after the KRPA guards denied access. "I guess we'll have to wait."

If the leaders are having a good argument, those outside are networking and, as a prominent outsider, Solomon and Otto are getting attention. Downstairs, there seems to be some form of technical meeting in a suite of rooms off the main foyer. People keep coming and going - and a holographic plan seems to be projected into much of the space. A few people from there occasionally drift upstairs, clearly passing messages to one of the family groups. None look happy.

From a security point of view, the room is full of tensions and several of the people are armed - all the guards and some of the delegates.

One of the more striking occupants is a pair of Sword-World Valkyrie. Both are nearly 2m tall and show a more relaxed demeanour than most.

[ateno]

By the Majestic, however, there don't seem to be many people - and there are distant voices that seem ugly and angry.

"Do you know what that is Helen? Sounds like a protest of some sort, can we take a short look from the distance"?

Norega pings a message Interview a good idea. Giigimka wants to talk about playing the second half of the concert - We could plead force-majeure? I'm in the Pyrites Bar on the 3rd floor.

Ping Norega back. Set it for tomorrow afternoon, if that's ok please, Norega

"Gilgimka, I would be happy too, but I need to talk to the crew, I will see that all this evening, ok? Call me back by noon tomorrow if you don't hear from me. "

Phoenix

[BackworldTraveller]

Einar arrives at the Town Hall with Sigur - and finds the place buzzing. The ground floor is in use as an office.

Sigur notes We'll need to look in there later for the latest on the powerplant clean-up and repair

Heading upstairs, there is a crowd outside the main hall - with KPRA guards blocking the hall entrance while the excluded shoal outside like piranha's looking for a victim. You recognise the Maas delegation (Solomon and Otto) in one corner with their guard. You also note that there are two Sword-Worlds blonde giants - slightly over-dressed for the occasion - moving through the group.

They come over

We've heard of you they say to Einar Some prodigy offspring of Sigur's old partner's Brother. He's been saying you're coming for weeks now. We thought it was a threat, but it looks like a promise!

Sigur looks slightly embarrassed.

---

The Elder of the two Valkyrie

[Hvalreki]

Solomon Tukera

If the leaders are having a good argument, those outside are networking and, as a prominent outsider, Solomon and Otto are getting attention. Downstairs, there seems to be some form of technical meeting in a suite of rooms off the main foyer. People keep coming and going - and a holographic plan seems to be projected into much of the space. A few people from there occasionally drift upstairs, clearly passing messages to one of the family groups. None look happy.

From a security point of view, the room is full of tensions and several of the people are armed - all the guards and some of the delegates.

One of the more striking occupants is a pair of Sword-World Valkyrie. Both are nearly 2m tall and show a more relaxed demeanour than most.

Solomon works the room using persuasion, diplomacy and carousing (whatever seems best for each group) to learn what he can about the family negotiations and establishing ties with the various factions.

[BackworldTraveller]

Solomon Tukera

If the leaders are having a good argument, those outside are networking and, as a prominent outsider, Solomon and Otto are getting attention. Downstairs, there seems to be some form of technical meeting in a suite of rooms off the main foyer. People keep coming and going - and a holographic plan seems to be projected into much of the space. A few people from there occasionally drift upstairs, clearly passing messages to one of the family groups. None look happy.

From a security point of view, the room is full of tensions and several of the people are armed - all the guards and some of the delegates.

One of the more striking occupants is a pair of Sword-World Valkyrie. Both are nearly 2m tall and show a more relaxed demeanour than most.

Solomon works the room using persuasion, diplomacy and carousing (whatever seems best for each group) to learn what he can about the family negotiations and establishing ties with the various factions.

Solomon makes the rounds, trying to implant the idea that Maas as a partner is a better option than having LSP as an overlord. Whether the idea works is less clear. His attempts at finding common ground between the factions is definitely falling flat - the recent raid having reinforced the divisions. What is clear is that the leader of the faction that would most likely support your view is the lady in hospital having been attacked. Her successor has nothing like her standing amongst the families.
What Solomon does do well at is keeping the atmosphere convivial - He manages to disassociate himself from any specific party in doing so and thus avoids that particular pit-stop.

He is somewhat surprised that the two sword-worlders also seem to be working the room in similar fashion - and pushing the anti-LSP, pro-Maas programme too. They are less trusted than Solomon and their help doesn't appear too helpful - but they are trying.

[dongriffiths]

Einar:

Looking quizzically at Sigur Einar draws himself to attention bows slightly.

"A pleasure to make your acquaintance."

"Is there any chance this lot will actually stop squabbling and get organised?"

[cybersavant]

Phoenix

There are a series of answers, all affirmative, except for Lurch who is still in the Hospital under slow drug (and Andras who can answer for himself!).
As they arrive at the lift by the Belt Palace, they find Andras returning from the Stage clean-up.
[/quote]

Elzelil Rickert Andrasfalls in behind behind Phoenix and waits for an open moment to speak.

"Gears all packed and ready."

[BackworldTraveller]

Einar:

Looking quizzically at Sigur Einar draws himself to attention bows slightly.

"A pleasure to make your acquaintance."

"Is there any chance this lot will actually stop squabbling and get organised?"

Oh, about as much chance as you have of becoming Emperor of the Sword Worlds. They enjoy squabbling! The multiple interested Imperial parties, all with different agendas helps. They will be in trouble if they ever have to face a united Imperial front.

So, I'm Ingrid and this is my protégé Elsa.

We're surprised to see that the Patrol let you go. Did you blot your record? Or just get fed up of the hypocrisy?

The pair wait for an answer, giving you a chance to look them over.

Please roll for Streetwise+INT to see what that gets you before the below chaos kicks off!

Einar is about to reply when a person in a port overalls appears at the run, rushes upstairs, pushes through the crowd proclaiming Urgent message for the meeting before bursting into the meeting room as the guards let him through.

LSP are on their way - They are bringing their customs barge*, and their new Senior Manager... is heard before the doors are pulled shut behind the messenger

The elder Valkyrie tips her head at the younger who moves off, then comments to Einar Indecision time over?

---

*The LSP Jessica Ling - a 400 dTon Security Cutter.

[dongriffiths]

I had some issues with some of the procedures in my later training and left the Patrol.

[BackworldTraveller]

Einar watches the two women - and notes that they are playing at politics here. They have some other agenda - and they move like dancers - As Elsa moves through the room she does so quickly and without touching anyone. Recalling their circling earlier, they homed in on Einar and Sigur as if they had been waiting for them to arrive.

I think the next announcements will be interesting - They can't ignore LSP's Emissary.

And then it hits him - These two are wearing diplomatic protection style cloth armour normally worn by elite patrol elements at fancy diplomatic events where the locals are unfriendly. Who are they protecting? From whom? Or are they the "From"? Were they checking him out?

That they are not obviously armed could be good or bad - especially since many people in the room carry some form of personal weaponry.

Einar's poker face is clearly slipping...Don't worry - we're protecting an investment not burying one. says Ingrid - as she turns to move off.

[BackworldTraveller]

She will grip text her entire team.
"Its been quite a full 24 hours, should we get together and so a group meeting and plan our next step?. Dinner, tonight, my hotel, 630p? Let me know, I'm open for anything."/
Phoenix

Elzelil Rickert Andras stops packing the equipment to answer.

Just finishing with the equipment. Will meet when done.

Andras notices someone exit the north lift by the hotel, and move towards the shouting...He's sure it's Nenhya.

[Hvalreki]

Solomon Tukera

Einar is about to reply when a person in a port overalls appears at the run, rushes upstairs, pushes through the crowd proclaiming Urgent message for the meeting before bursting into the meeting room as the guards let him through.

LSP are on their way - They are bringing their customs barge*, and their new Senior Manager... is heard before the doors are pulled shut behind the messenger

The elder Valkyrie tips her head at the younger who moves off, then comments to Einar Indecision time over?

---

*The LSP Jessica Ling - a 400 dTon Security Cutter.

“Well that settles it. Diplomacy isn’t working. Time for a frontal assault. I never was much of a diplomat anyway.”

Turning to Ike, “You’re security, can you delay their approach and landing? Safety inspection or some such. Hold them at range under guns until you’re satisfied they are who they say they are. After last night you can’t be too careful.

Once they land, and they will, delay their arrival here as long as you can. Checkpoints, pat downs, etc. be polite but thorough, very thorough. We need all the time we can get.”

Solomon walks to the center of the space and raises his command voice to be heard.

“Friends, citizens, belters. If you want a say in what happens after today you’ll need to come to decisionss on the way forward or it may be decided for you.

Maas Industries stands ready to support Koenig’s Rock however we can but ultimately it’s up to you. I suggest we start the general congress now, while there is still time for discussion.. Friends, follow me.”

He assembles his team and walks purposefully to the doors like he owns the place and hoping other delegations follow his lead.

[BackworldTraveller]

With Odo and William at his side, Solomon bursts through the doors, followed by the gathered crowd - except for a group of minions from the LSP office who seem to have somehow faded into the background and Ike who considers how to implement the plan Solomon has outlined. Even Einar finds himself drawn in

The Heroic declaration by Solomon is matched by a cry of "And the Brothers De Lambre too" from that family's representative. The Head of the KRPA, David Mullins, tries "We can negotiate", but is shouted down. Clearly this is not going to be a quiet session, but Solomon's demagoguery has paid off and his view prevails. Eventually, the room quiets to listen to the next steps in the plan...

---

Nenhya takes a look at the mob at the front of the salvage yard...

• Who gains? The Salvagers: Buy Wrecks Cheap, Sell Spares Expensive
• Your market has allowed Vagabonds, Outsiders, Pirates and Smugglers free rein - It's us that pays for your profits
• Attack women and Children then hide in your kennel!!!

...Not a great advert for tolerance.

Phoenix, Andras and Helen see the lone figure facing the mob...Quick, into the hotel. Best avoid trouble states the guard.